Pepperpot epaper 09 25 2016

Reviving music in primary schools â–ş Centre

Students of the Dora Primary School use their recorders to play the national anthem Samuel Maughn photo

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Chronicle Pepperpot September 25, 2016

Chronicle Pepperpot September 25, 2016

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Teaching profession continues to be dominated by female teachers -And the ratio resembles that of the classroom

IN 2015, 41% of the candidates who wrote the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) Examination were males, clearly outnumbered by females, and continuing a steady trend which has been seen annually across the region, including Guyana.

The trend may be relative to the female/male teacher ratio of Guyana’s education system in which there are more females than males.

the CSEC exam results where St Rose’s High School student Fatima Karima obtained 19 Grade One passes at the examinations.

Previous year’s results indicate that the females obtained more grade one passes in the results announced by the CXC. 2015: Victoria Najab -20 Grade Ones 2014: Elisa Hamilton -19 Grade Ones 2013: Zamina Rasheed-18 Grade

According to additional statistical data from the Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) , the body which administers the CSEC examinations, since 2008 a total of 55, 130 males wrote the exam while 77, 544 females wrote the exam – a 42:58 ratio.

In Guyana, the figures for the 2015 examinations as announced by the Ministry of Education indicated that 4,677 males and 8,132 females sat the examinations; this translates to a 37:63 male/ female ratio.

The previous year, the amount of females (8, 837) was almost double the amount of males, 4,887.

Ones 2012: Sarah Hakh-16 Grade Ones The performances may be a reflection of the country’s education system in which the females have been dominating the teaching profession annually.

In 2015, a total of 506 persons graduated from the Cyril Potter College of Education(CPCE) as trained teachers ; the previous year ,a total of 359 trained teachers graduated from CPCE while in 2013, the figures stood at 300.

Of the figures published, a significant

TOP CSEC PERFORMERS Annually, the top CSEC performers across the country have been the females and this is reflected in the 2016 results of

percentage of the total for each year of graduate teachers, were females, outnumbering the males annually by more than 50%.

The absence of the menfolk as educators may have an impact on the results, at least as role models.

Data provided by the Education

Ministry’s in its Statistic Digest Data for 2008-2009 informs that the ratio of male to female teachers in the education system is at an alarmingly higher rate in favour of the female educators.

For the Nursery level the male/female ratio was 1:247, at the Primary level, 1:7 and at the secondary level the ratio stood at 1:2.

PRIMARY EDUCATION Information suggests that around the year 2000, there were similar number of trained male and female teachers in Guyana’s primary education system but the figures changed significantly over a 12 year period.

In a 2012 World Bank indicators report, the figures provided indicate that there were a total of 4079 primary teach-

ers in Guyana. Of this number, 3612 were females.

In October 2015, President of the Guyana Teacher s Union, Mark Lyte was quoted in this publication as stating that “There are more female teachers than male teachers. This is mainly because of the insufficient remuneration that is being offered to teachers”, he said at the time.

He added that, “It would not attract males because they are the breadwinners at home. So I think this is what has contributed to the shortage of male teachers in schools,” said Lyte.

The GTU opted for a 25% increase in wages and salaries for teachers for in its new multi-year agreement which seeks to attract more males into the teaching profession.

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Chronicle Pepperpot September 25, 2016

By Subraj Singh

John Green’s

Paper Towns

REMEMBER a few years ago when The Fault in Our Stars came out and John Green and his novel became a worldwide sensation? Then the movie adaptation of the book came out and teenagers all over the world went wild and even more people were prompted to go and read The Fault in Our Stars.

It was one of those literary moments when a book suddenly takes the world by storm and it is all one hears about for weeks or months. Usually, this is a good thing, for the book, for the author, and sometimes, for literature itself. However, sometimes, such fame being assigned to a single book in an author’s oeuvre can be a bad thing in the way one book can eclipse all the other books written by the author, even when the not-sofamous books are sometimes better than the one accruing all the attention. Paper Towns,

first published in 2008, is lesser known than The Fault in Our Stars, with a lesser known film adaptation. However, in some ways, it is a superior book to The Fault in Our Stars and it is more than worthy of a read, especially for those interested in YA fiction.

The novel focuses on a teenager named Quentin and his childhood friend, Margo.

As the years pass, Quentin and Margo grow distant from each other and their friendship wanes. One night, however, Margo suddenly turns up at his house, climbs through his bedroom and persuades Quentin to join her in performing light acts of revenge on the people who have hurt her through her high school life. The night goes well for the two of them and the sense of the old friendship that they once had is felt again. Quentin becomes hopeful, but then, by the next morning, we learn that Margo has vanished and

(Bloomsbury Books) Quentin is left with many, many questions and what he believes is a clue that will lead him to find Margo once more.

The book works well because it caters to the young adult audience it was written for. All the necessary themes and ideas are in place and are presented in a non-clichéd manner while being wrapped up in layers and layers of emotion. How many people were once close friends with someone during their childhood days and now when they see the same person, so many years later, it is as if they see a complete stranger?

How many people have been in love with someone for a great long time only to find out in the end that the image that they had of that person was nothing more than a façade, unreal and idealistic? How many people complain about others being “fake” when they themselves wear several masks

in order to protect and/or hide who they are at the core? If you are one such person, then Paper Towns is for you.

The novel is refreshing and more important now, because of its wholesomeness and original and accurate representations of young love and heartache and the teenage experience.

Sure, when one thinks of YA novels, lots of post-apocalyptic fiction comes to mind but, if not anything else, John Green reminds us of what it feels like to be young and he reminds us of what it feels like to experience a gamut of emotions, and books such as Paper Towns should be adored and respected and read, at least in between all the blood-splattered and gore-filled works of literature that young people seem to prefer. Give Paper Towns a try.

Chronicle Pepperpot September 25, 2016

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Social Media and Mental Health

H

ello Everyone I hope this week has treated you well.

I recently had a client come to me with symptoms of depression and anxiety.

At the end of our session, she made an interesting comment. She said the only thing that changed in her life over the past six months was that she created two social media accounts. She laughed and said maybe that was the reason for her abrupt unpleasant feelings. I laughed along with her at the time but when she left I thought about how valid her point was and decided to look a little further.

Therefore, today I’m going to talk about social media and its effects on our mental health.

This is a tricky one, as there is no way to down play the importance of social media. When used appropriately, social media sites such as Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram etc., are the most powerful forms of communication, education, marketing, job opportunities, research, world news and general information the world has ever seen.

They are mostly used by teenagers but the elder folks’ friend requests are becoming more and more popular. Studies show that females use social media more than males and that Facebook is the most popular site with over 1.2 billion global users. Overall, 1 in 4 people worldwide have some sort of social network account.

It’s quite amazing to think how fast and far social media has advanced since dial up connection. We all remember that dreadful noise- those were the days when you couldn’t sneak online as the dial up to connect online would not only wake up the entire house but disconnect your phone line. Yes, that’s how old I am- I remember those times. How far we’ve come!

I’m not going to say that social media is all bad- there are certainly many benefits.

My favourite aspect is the awareness and support it can spread all around the

world at the click of a button. For example, I’m sure we all remember the ALS campaign that used just social media to promote the “ice bucket challenge.” Now, everyone knows about ALS and millions of dollars was raised towards their cause.

Also in terms of awareness, social media is a way for people to reach out for help. I cannot tell you the amount of people that are identified and helped via these sites.

My second favourite are the support groups offered. There are groups on Facebook for people who are interested in the same things - people who have lost loved ones, sites intended to decrease violence against women, recovering addicts – pretty much anything.

On social media, one not only can connect with old and new friends, but is now able to find jobs, properties, cars and promote their businesses. Social media even helps to catch criminals: Who remembers that story of the boy from Buxton who robbed a store and decided to post a picture and comment about it on Facebook? I’m sure he’s now well aware of the impact of this revolution.

Finally, these sites promote freedom of speech which is crucial for many reasons.

Human beings need to feel heard- it’s really important for our overall well -being to feel that our feelings and opinions matter.

However, this is where the negatives come in. Just because we have the right to say something, should we say it?

Yes, we can send messages a lot faster and cheaper to many more people than ever in history but what messages are we sending? Are those positively evolving like these sites?

While I am definitely a fan, there are so many note-worthy negatives to social media.

First and foremost, of course, would be cyber bullying. So many people are victims of this.

An example of this would be other people posting inappropriate pictures and videos of you- which happens all the time in Guyana and has actually been a causal

factor of multiple suicides.

There is an example I could use that happened not too long ago. A well-known (in her field) person made a comment about the child who did really well at the CSEC Exams. What she said wasn’t supportive or even kind but it was her opinion, which people

have a right to share on Facebook.

The backlash that she received was so ridiculously cruel and over the top that it made me not want to login, period. I don’t know what she did to overcome ► Continued on page VI

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Chronicle Pepperpot September 25, 2016

Social Media and Mental ... ► From page V

all that negativity but I take my hat off to her.

There is also a lot of misinformation on social media sites. People post whatever they want and almost every day I read something that is completely inaccurate. I know it is but everyone may not. That’s a huge negative and potentially dangerous influence on a large population.

Sites like Facebook and Instagram are also known to cause low self- esteem, high anxiety, feelings of inadequacy, insecurities, envy, jealously – pretty much every emotion that can make us feel bad about ourselves. Sites like these are a breeding ground for comparison and as Theodore Roosevelt said “Comparison is the thief of joy”.

Physically, adolescent obesity has drastically increased over the last 15 years. There is no doubt to researchers that these sites play a significant role in that incline. Social media sites also glamorise alcohol and drug abuse.

Everyone knows what I’m talking about there.

Socially, these sites can also have a negative effect. It’s ironic as these sites were created to be ‘social’ but if you think about it, they minimise this. These are platforms that are responsible for much less face to face

communication. This can also cause a lot of conflict as there is no way to account for tone and there is no way to see the immediate impact your words have on people. Additionally, there are many people in my life who I used to talk to daily or weekly and I feel no need to do that anymore as I can see on social media that they are alive and doing well. So, these sites have actually allowed me to drift away from some people.

Fraud is also common. People constantly make fake profiles or hack into existing ones. There are also online predators which make it very unsafe for young people to use.

In terms of productivity, studies have actually been done to show that students who have social media profiles have lower academic grades than those who do not. Specifically, they score 20% less on test scores.

Finally, it can cause internet addiction. Yes, that’s a real thing!

Those who read every week know that I specialise in addiction and have a talent of comparing anything to it. Social media is no different. It can be thought of in a sense where it causes isolation, lack of sleep, loss of appetite (when you see all these ridiculously good looking people in bikinis) etc. More so, when you post something and get a ‘comment’ or a ‘like’, its pleasurable and reinforc-

ing (much like a drug) which makes you want to repeat the action. Think about it.

The solution to this is not to delete your accounts- that’s not at all what I’m saying but like everything else, be aware of its negative effects and practice moderation.

I’m on Facebook more than 10 times a day as that’s where I get all my news from. I follow local and international news stations and boom, everything is right there in one application. It’s incredible.

However, this week, I have paid attention to the amount of time I spend on these sites as well as the amount of emotions they elicit. I have realised that I also sometimes compare/contrast my life to others and sometimes I felt bad about myself. It was important for me to recognise that.

Social media is a huge investment for us. Not monetarily but time which is worth so much more. To get the best return on this investment, we need to use it more wisely.

For example, if you own a business, make the profile solely for its benefit, to promote it and get the attention of new potential customers. Use the sites to create a likeable brand for yourself.

Most companies/people check social media sites before hiring.

If you are worried about your children on these sites, guide them

through it and teach them the right way to use it. Set time boundaries for how long they can use it, create secure privacy settings and teach them not to share personal information. Come to think about it, this is not specific to children. From what I see, many adults need to learn this too.

I think the most important thing to remember is that people on social media sites present idealized versions of their lives. There is a reason they took a picture of themselves or their food- because they both looked unusually good that day. That’s not every day reality.

So, set a certain amount of time to use these sites daily, keep track of how you feel when on them, fact check everything you read, watch out for bullies, DO NOT BULLY, and remember not to judge or compare!

Thank you for reading and please send in any topics to caitlinvieira@ gmail.com. Also please remember when you can come see me.

Georgetown Public Hospital :Monday- Friday – 8am- 12pm Woodlands Hospital: Outpatient Department Drug and Alcohol group meetings - Mondays 4:15 Good mental health group meetings- Wednesdays 4:15 Say Yes to Life and No to Drugs!

Always!

Chronicle Pepperpot September 25, 2016

The key to oral health

MANY dentists recommend a rectangular-shaped soft nylon brush without fancy curves and tufts. But actually, this is too vague for most people. The best toothbrush is one with a small head and soft bristles.

These bristles should be all of the same height and that have round ends. The advantages of a soft brush are that it can be used on the gum as well as the teeth and tongue with less risk of abrasion. In any event plaque is like jelly and does not require a hard brush to remove it.

You may be wondering why then do manufacturers make hard toothbrushes.

The answer is hard bristle toothbrushes are for dentures and bridges, not natural teeth.

One way for you to evaluate which brush is the best for you and whether or not you require a prophylactic cleaning from your dentist, is to run your tongue over your teeth after brushing. If the teeth do not feel smooth and clean, you may want to see your dentist.

Another thing, people often ask me, “Doc when do I change my tooth brush, after 3 months, or what?” The answer is that the condition of the toothbrush decides.

Toothbrushes are no longer effective if the ends of some of the bristles do not point straight up. As soon as the bristles start to curve outwards its time to get rid of that brush.

Plaque disclosing tablets, available in my clinic, contain a vegetable dye that stains red any plaque that remains on the teeth after brushing and flossing. This is essentially a teaching device to tell you if you are brushing properly. The tablet is chewed and mixed with saliva and then swished to bathe all the teeth with the solution.

By disclosing the residual plaque to view, you can learn where better brushing and flossing are needed.

Disclosing tablets are not recommended for daily use but only as an occasional checkup on the brushing efficiency. Since most brushing is deficient anyway, the best advice is to take little more

time and work conscientiously at being more thorough.

If you brush more than once a day, it is a good idea to have two brushes. By alternating, the bristles have a time to dry out and become firm again for reuse.

Rechargeable battery operated toothbrushes are recommended for handicapped persons who lack the manual dexterity required for hand brushing.

Electric toothbrushes, though relatively expensive, remove plaque effectively from exposed tooth surfaces, though the same results can be obtained from a hand brush if you brush long enough. I personally use an electric toothbrush. Individu-

tric brush may be just one more superfluous gadget.

Brushing with toothpaste that combines a very mild abrasive and a safe detergent is the most effective way to clean teeth. However, the best toothpaste is the one that contains fluoride and anticariogenic material. You should not use so much paste that you foam at the mouth when you brush. A half-inch dollop of paste is more than sufficient. The addition of fluorides reduces dental decay and gum line sensitivity.

The fluoride can also repair early caries by promoting

als who are too impatient for thorough manual brushing would benefit from one of the newer electric toothbrushes with programmed timers that tell you when to shift from one side of the mouth to another over a period of two minutes.

Following treatment for moderate to advanced periodontal disease, an electric toothbrush, with its high speed oscillation, may be nearly as effective as brushing with both a conventional toothbrush and a small interproximal brush. However, the electric brush cannot completely remove plaque from the proximal surfaces, especially if the spaces between the teeth are filled with gum tissue. Interproximal plaque can be removed from these surfaces only by use of dental floss.

For a person with the average dexterity and no special dental problems, an elec-

remineralization of enamel.

Some toothpastes, described as tooth whiteners, may contain harsher abrasives to remove tobacco stains. They are not intended for daily use since the abrasive may wear away the tooth surface, especially at the gum line, and produce areas of hypersensitivity.

Do not brush with table salt, which is excessively abrasive. Baking soda, a popular fad in the past, is not as effective as modern toothpastes.

Unless one forms a great deal of tartar, tartar-reducing toothpastes have little advantage over regular pastes.

The best guide is to choose fluoride toothpaste that has the approval of the American Dental Association and suits your personal taste (and I am not saying this because I am a member of that Association but because it has been proven in numerous studies).

The function of dental

floss is to clean the side surfaces of incisors and cuspids( “eye teeth”) and the front and back surfaces of the bicuspids and molars that cannot be reached by the toothbrush. Dentists call these the proximal surfaces, meaning the sides next to each other. The floss is stretched taut between the fingers, which were placed inside and outside of the teeth. The floss is then gently slipped between hew teeth.

Excessive pressure that snaps the floss through the contact points of the teeth can injure the gum tissue, so

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Dr. BERTRAND R. STUART, DDS. it is important to ease rather than force the floss through.

The floss should then be worked three or four times up and down in a scraping, motion against the front and back tooth surfaces without rubbing against the gum as it passes from side to side. The floss should not be pulled back and forth like a shoeshine cloth. This “sawing” action can wear grooves into the roots. Flossing helps to prevent bad breath.

Flossing is a skill that does not come easily. It must be practiced until one’s fingers get a “feel” for where they are and

what they are doing. Floss holders can be purchased to make it easier, but they are not necessary for anyone with normal dexterity.

As long as you can hold a string taut between two fingers you can learn to floss. But even a skilled flosser has difficulty where contacts between the teeth are very tight or they are rough or sharp edges on fillings and tartar deposits that tear or fray the nylon.

A trip to the dentist will be necessary to eliminate these problems by smoothing or replacing defective fillings and scaling the teeth.

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Chronicle Pepperpot September 25, 2016

Literacy enhances life - economically, culturally, socially

SEPTEMBER has been designated "Education Month" by the Ministry of Education and it is likely that among the reasons September has been so designated are that the new school year usually begins in this month and secondly, International Literacy Day is marked on 8th September each year.

The Ministry of Education, led by its brilliant Minister, Dr Rupert Roopnarine, has mounted a comprehensive programe for the month of which Literacy is one element. In this offering, we shall focus on Literacy

since Literacy is of primary concern to consumers and indeed the public as a whole.

Literacy is often interpreted in Guyana as the ability to sign one's name, to read and write a short letter and to read some parts of the newspapers. UNESCO's definition of Literacy is much more realistic and in effect outlines what should be the goal of any programe of Literacy. UNESCO's definition is "the ability to identify, understand, interpret, create, communicate and compute, using printed and written materials associ-

ated with varying context."

To fully elucidate this definition would take up too much space in this short article; we would simply say that the literate person is one who could read and write, understand and assimilate what one has read and be able to use such knowledge in the real world. The person should be able to write in a way that communicates to others.

The effects of the absence of Literacy on adults and children are very depressing. In the words of Madame Irina Bokova, the Director-General of UNE-

SCO: "These women and men are more vulnerable to ill-health, exploitation and human rights abuse.

They are more likely to be unemployed and paid less.

Unable to read or write, they are held back from their full potential and whole communities are locked into vicious cycles of poverty that lay the conditions for violence and strife."

By the time a child finishes the third grade at school, he/she should be able to read fairly fluently and when he/she goes into the fourth grade, the learning process seriously starts.

And from there he/she begins the journey to the CXC Examinations and entrance to tertiary Institutions.

Very many children do not master the reading and writing skills of the Third Grade but this tends to be treated as something not of critical importance since it is assumed that the child would improve with time.

The child is promoted to the upper grades and without realizing the causes, he/she begins to find the CXC journey difficult. Many children fail, not because they lack innate capability, but simply they did not master the reading-writing skills at the

Third Grade. Most of such children would have had their career to further education and a better economic livelihood tragically ended.

This problem of having children successfully clearing the hurdle of literacy in the lower school lies in the hands of parents more than in the hands of the teachers: In the first place, parents must ensure that their children attend school every day. Among poorer parents, for various reasons, this may require some sacrifice on their part, but they must make it.

In the second place, parents must encourage their children to read and help them along and realize that they can't be wholly dependent on the school. The UNESCO Director-General states this succinctly: " In fact, the motivation children have towards reading is strongly affected by beliefs, values, attitudes and expectations their parents have about Literacy and schooling."

In the third place, parents should introduce their young children to the available library facilities. The librarians at the National Library and its extensions such as the travelling li-

PAT DIAL braries would be happy to guide young children in their reading. (The Guyana Consumers Association has written the Ministry of Education recommending the establishment of public libraries in the various Regions and school libraries.)

In the primary schools, the Ministry of Education, the head-teachers, and indeed the teaching profession as a whole should give special attention to the second and third grades to ensure that all children become proficient in reading and writing skills. This could be emphasized by the award of certificates from the Minister and by book prizes.

Some public recognition could be given to good performers in these grades as is done each year with the highfliers at the CXC. Publicity work should be carried out at the local level to educate the public as to the value of Literacy and the community leaders should be drafted in this effort. Short remedial classes should be organized for adults as this would meet a long-felt need.

folklore

Chronicle Pepperpot September 25, 2016

IX

State Visit

By Neil Primus

By Neil Primus

THERE are many stories about the existence of the Kanaima: Some are believable; others are not.

Here is one that you have to decide whether to believe or not.

Basil was 28 years old and on his first visit to the city.

All his life he had lived in the interior jungle among his tribe. It was a simple life without too much influence from the city. He was the son of the tribe’s spiritual

healer; it was believed that he possessed special powers. This was no lie. Basil was indeed a very powerful young man. He had the uncanny ability to shape-shift.

Yes, Basil was a Kanaima.

When he arrived in the city, he was greeted by relatives and friends who had migrated to the busy metropolitan capital. He was fascinated by the houses, vehicles and throngs of noisy people. Basil arrived in September, and was expected to return home in late December.

His cousin, Annemarie, invited him to attend her

staff party. What she failed to tell him was that it was a Halloween Ball. When Basil arrived, the man at the door told him he could only gain entrance if dressed in a costume. Meanwhile, people were passing, wearing all sorts of weird costumes. Basil decided he would comply.

‘I’LL BE BACK!’ “I’m going to put on my Jaguar costume and re-

turn,” he told the nonchalant doorman.

He was true to his word. Ten minutes after, he was back. When the man at the gate saw him approaching, the poor fellow was speechless; it was the most realistic costume he had ever seen. Besides that, the young man wearing it must have had a lot of practise!

He looked perfect in his role! Basil entered ► Continued on page X

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State Visit ... ► From page IX

unchallenged.

The party was in full swing. All sorts of animals, birds and mythical creatures roamed the large hall, but none could be compared to the Jaguar. He had no difficulty in enjoying the best cuts of meat.

As the party neared its conclusion, an announcement was made.

“Animals and all creatures, including aliens, please get ready to reveal your identity.”

One by one, people stepped forward and removed their mask. After every revelation, there was loud applause. This went on for quite some time, until it was Basil’s turn.

“Now, who can this be?” The announcer’s voice was playful.

Chronicle Pepperpot September 25, 2016

“Take off the headpiece.” Basil just stood there.

The announcer misread the lack of response as some sort of hesitation and shyness. He stepped forward to assist.

That was when he received the shock of his life! He grabbed the neck, trying to detect where the headpiece could be pulled off. Finding no seam or opening, he just took a leap of faith and yanked roughly, trying to tug the headpiece off.

Flashing feline eyes, raised hackles and exposed claws were accompanied by a ferocious, deep growl.

Grrrrrr!

PRESENT DANGER The man took an uncertain step back, his mind trying to wrap itself around this new and present danger, as there, in front of him, was a real live jaguar. It was too much to take in. With a shriek, he burrowed his way out of the building, much to the shock of everyone. That is, everyone except Basil.

“J...J….Jaguar! Real J…J...Jaguar!”

When the significance of what he

was saying penetrated the liquor and drug-crazed minds in the party, they all responded as one. In a flash, there was a screaming, jostling mass trying to exit the room.

The man at the gate had seen him enter, and had his own suspicions.

He kept checking to see where the strangely costumed fellow was.

Something about the costume made him uneasy. When the MC made his exit, screaming for Jaguar, the doorman took his cue. He sprang into action, heading for the safety of his home. No more Halloween Balls for him!

As for Basil, he exited the empty dancehall and made his way home; transformed, of course. On the way, he met a terrified cousin, babbling about some monster at the party. When she asked if he had attended, he replied in the best way he knew how.

“Got lost; sorry,” he mumbled.

Basil returned home, and to normalcy. But for many of those who attended the party, particularly the MC, normalcy was A Lost Kingdom.

Chronicle Pepperpot September 25, 2016

XI

Your Alter Ego TOO many times I'm faced with the question: Does my makeup look good? Makeup is a way of expressing yourself.

It’s been said before that beauty is in the eye of the beholder. And if that beholder is a man, well, that beholder has moods and changes dramatically. Studies have shown men actually prefer images of women in makeup even though they often say women wear too much makeup.

Most cosmetic companies, psychologists and beauty experts often conduct such studies to validate the obscure question: "If you prefer the natural woman, why stare at airbrushed ideals that don't exist?"

Makeup offers women a chance to create an alter-ego, and can change the perception of any onlooker - anything from a sweet girly image to a vixen provocateur. Makeup in its artistry can evoke change in a subtle but profound way. The right eyelash, eyelid colour and lipstick can turn heads. However these changes should

be subtle, not dramatic.

The latest trend seems to be changing your entire face, and all its God-given features. Sofia Vergara said "You can't draw a woman with straight lines." Heavily drawn, overdone brows, thick straight-as-an-arrow winged eyeliner has its time and place, and the Nike sign contour....okay everybody, just calm down!

In 2016, let's say good bye to that please, I beg you.

And say hello to the subtle sophisticated alter egos. It should be cool, it should be personal and it should be YOURS. It is always acceptable and wise to adopt style and taste from others, but your uniqueness is what truly makes you special. Creativity is the aim of the game.

So...how do you create your own alter ego? I often

ask my clients, "What do you want to look like for your special occasion? Do you want colour? Are you a lipstick person? Do you want to look like you're wearing no makeup? How about glitter?"

The best thing to do especially if you're hiring a makeup artist is to show up to your appointment with images of makeup you like; it doesn't matter whether the person in the image has your skin tone or not.

It is just an idea of what intrigues and excites you.

The same should be done when you're creating your makeup looks at home. Select images of makeup you like, tag them, stick them on the mirror, save them to your phone, print them, cut them out of magazines or newspapers, and practice those looks on your face.

You will eventually discover who you truly are, and the image you want to portray.

It's about you, not society, unless you're so desperate to fit into an ever changing society you may never fit into.

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Chronicle Pepperpot September 25, 2016

Emerging Artist

Lynette Fiona Alert IN an attempt to highlight some of Guyana’s emerging talent, particularly from our premier art institution the E.R. Burrowes School of Art, I decided to extend my platform so that the public could be better acquainted with future Guyanese art practitioners. This week’s feature highlights Fiona Alert, a young artist whose works are predominantly paintings and leather works.

Dominique Hunter: Tell me a little about yourself and how you got started.

Lynette Fiona Alert: I started the E.R. Burrowes

School of Art in 2014 as a part-time student in the one-year painting course.

After I completed that I realized that I wasn’t getting enough and I wanted more. So I decided to join the school full-time soon after that. After doing the introductory courses, the following year I majored in painting and leather.

DH: What inspired this body of work?

LFA: In preparation for graduation we were told that it’s better if we have a theme. So I thought about what my theme would be.

I started thinking about the things I liked and what I wanted to say. There were

Lynette Fiona Alert stands beside one of her still life paintings on display at the Umana Yana

Alert’s major task is a painting featuring a smiling Amerindian girl in the process of preparing cassava bread

many answers because I wanted to say so much.

I have so many different sides of me. So I looked a bit deeper within myself.

I’m a lover of nature and I enjoy observing nature and from that I learned so much. I saw serenity, beauty and diversity within nature. Observing all of those things in nature taught me so much. It put a fear, a love and a greater appreciation for creation and for God. It helped me to love myself, love others and to respect persons of different ethnicities. Some say we shouldn’t see colour but yet when we look in nature we see colour, beauty, different shapes, sizes and so much diversity. You can’t be blind to colour in the human race. Everyone is distinct and beautiful

in [his or her] own way.

They all add beauty and diversity to the human race.

Just from observing nature that’s what I’ve learnt. So I decided to let nature be my theme. I narrowed it down to local sceneries and that’s when I decided to paint the Rupununi area. I’ve never been to that area but I’ve seen it in videos and magazines. It’s really beautiful and I hope to go there one day to see it with my own eyes. I hope to feel the beauty and the energy that it has to offer.

DH: Describe your major task for this exhibition.

LFA: My major task is of a smiling young Amerindian girl in the kitchen. ► Continued

on page XIII

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Emerging Artist ... ► From page XII She’s preparing a traditional dish, which is the cassava bread. She’s smiling because she’s happy. She woke up, saw the

mountains and the beautiful scenery around her and she’s appreciative of that. She’s content. I haven’t painted any persons

Alert has also done paintings on jute bag as seen here in my other works, mostly landscapes, houses and still life. I chose to paint her because I wanted to challenge myself by getting out of my comfort zone. I also challenged myself by working bigger [than I usually do].

It was a challenge but I think I handled it well. For my leather pieces I tried to [incorporate] a little bit of nature and wildlife. I did fine art wall pieces and I also did everyday items like belts and shoes. I tried to cater to different persons. For my major task in leather I made a briefcase from scratch. There were no heavy materials used only lightweight materials.

I also made a waistcoat and hat to go with the briefcase.

In my mind I created a man who would be using this briefcase. He has style, class and he’s not afraid to be noticed. He also has a love and appreciation for nature as well as art. I also made a leather picture frame, a leather mirror and leather art pieces to hang on the wall. At first I never saw myself doing leather.

Years ago I sold leather and whenever I noticed the hands of the leather men I would see how rough and hard looking their hands were. Even though I always appreciated the leather slippers and so on I never saw myself doing leather until I went to the E.R. Burrowes School of Art. That is where I discovered that leather could actually be fun. There are lots of creative things you can do with leather outside of the belts, bags and shoes that we see in the market.

For her major task in leather Alert constructed a leather briefcase with a matching waistcoat and hat

DH: How was your jour-

ney in the art school?

LFA: My experience in Burrowes was very hard and challenging. But they say nothing good comes easy. I was determined that nothing would distract me from finishing. I feel like I should’ve started this [journey] way back. When I was given the opportunity I knew that I shouldn’t waste it and that I should make the most of it. I went there to succeed, not to let anyone stand in my way. There were a lot of obstacles from the beginning of the first semester right down to the last few days but I was focused and I completed it.

I’m happy that I finished.

DH: What are your plans now that you’re done?

LFA: I plan to keep producing leather pieces and I hope that I get support. I hope that people would see my work, have an appreciation for it and purchase it.

I have no intention of going to work with someone.

I’ve worked with persons before and I’ve always felt like I wasn’t living or like I was just passing through traffic without stopping. I don’t know yet all of the avenues available to me but I’m hoping to find them and see how best they would suit me.

Lynette Fiona Alert along with eight other students (all female) exhibited their art works at the recently concluded examination exhibition at the Umana Yana, as part of the requirements for graduation from the E.R. Burrowes School of Art. The graduation ceremony for the budding artists will be held later in the year.

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Chronicle Pepperpot September 25, 2016

Balancing Act

Larissa Wiltshire serving during a squash match

By Daniel Haynes AT a time when education is celebrated and highlighted in Guyana, the story of Larissa Wiltshire fits perfectly.

Her exploits are not limited to the walls of the classroom.

In fact, she has dominated her sport, squash, while churning out excellent grades at the same time. At 18, Larissa Wiltshire stands at the crossroads of excellence.

Born March 19, 1998, her full name is Larissa Sakile Arielle George Wiltshire. She has an older sister and a younger brother; her childhood was a lot of fun and from an early age she was involved in many activities that kept her busy.

“I went to dancing at the National School of Dance, I did swimming, played piano and of course squash, all from the age of 5. We were kept really busy as children,” she recalled during an interview with the Guyana Chronicle.

Larissa attended Mae’s Primary School and despite her hectic schedule, she still achieved passing grades for Queen’s College. However, as she transitioned into high school, the list of activities she was doing thinned out.

Larissa Wiltshire with some of her trophies

–– Larissa Wiltshire excels on and off the squash court

The first activity to go was swimming, and this happened due to the fact that her swimming classes at Tower Hotel were stopped.

She continued to dance up to third form, when she started lessons in preparation for CSEC exams. However, her love of squash continued and she stuck with the game due to the fact that her dad, Garfield Wiltshire, was her trainer.

This allowed her to train when she did not have lessons.

When taking into account the fact that her dad played squash, one might think that she was egged on by him to stick with squash, but not so.

“I love squash, it is really fun. I mean, not many people understand it or know about it but it actually makes you very fit and calms the nerves,” she stated.

For Larissa, excelling in squash was a must. After all, her father was the former National Squash champion. She placed second this year in Guyana’s Junior Nationals squash tournament, but went on to secure the title of Caribbean U19 Female Junior Squash Champion, which she won in July. She is also an accomplished doubles bronze medalist, winning the medal at the 2015 Youth Commonwealth Games in Samoa with teammate, Taylor Fernandes, whom she calls her biggest rival.

“Taylor is my biggest rival because since we were young we have always been the best in our category so we have had to play each other a lot.” This rivalry however has not stopped the duo from forming a formidable team when they join forces.

In the academic aspect of her life, her excellence in the classroom was demonstrated in the CSEC examination where she attempted 17 subjects, and passed with 17 grade ones.

According to Larissa, she wrote 17 subjects because she liked all of them and could pass them. The journey wasn’t an easy one but she did it.

“In fifth form I had to study a lot. I had lessons from 6 a.m., then I’d have school, then lessons again up to 6 p.m. during the week. And on weekends I had lessons from 6 a.m. until 2 p.m.”

She went to lessons for eight of the 17 subjects since some weren’t taught in school and it couldn’t fit on her timetable.

“I used to study every day for about 3-4 hours coming closer to exams starting with the subject that was last. I studied the entire text book,” she stated.

She took this same formula into CAPE Units 1 & 2 and secured Grade one passes in the 12 units in two years. When asked how she found the balance between studying and playing, Larissa said, “For Cape in lower 6, six weeks before the exam I decided to do a subject per week starting with the last; I thought it worked really well so for upper 6 I did it for 12 weeks instead.”

She went on to add that she normally played on days she didn’t have lessons and she would study when she got home.

The hard work paid off and for her, finding out her results was exciting. “Before I got them I was really anxious and it was a relief to see that my hard work paid off.”

Another chapter The student athlete is now studying at the University of the West Indies on a full scholarship to become a dentist, which no one would have guessed given that her mother is Justice Roxane George.

At UWI, for the next five years, she is hoping to attain

Larissa Wiltshire on graduation day Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery/Doctors of Dental Surgery degrees.

“It’s a lot of work but that is expected of medical school,” she said.

The Caribbean Junior Female Squash Champion hopes to represent Guyana at the Senior Caribbean Championships and live up to the expectations she has of herself. It’s not all school and squash however, and she spends most of her time reading, since she is an avid reader. She is also a soca lover and could listen to soca music all day, since it helps her unwind and de-stress.

“I don’t like to fail and I constantly tell myself to focus so I don’t lose sight of my dreams. I am satisfied with all of my accomplishments and where I am right now. I am extremely happy with my life.”

Being either the best on the court or in the classroom is hard enough, but to excel at both at the same time is nothing short of phenomenal.

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TVET helping to curb school drop-out

–– over 2,500 completing Secondary Competency Certificate Programme annually

By Ravin Singh Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) has taken on a stronger image in light of the fact that many of the world’s occupations, particularly those that aid development of industries, depend on people with the necessary skills.

It is important to note that pursuing TVET programmes requires a strong background in Maths, Science and even English Language. In Guyana, the Education Ministry has been trying to change the way the population views TVET, and so far investments have been made in the construction of new institutes and facilities.

And even with a remarkably low school dropout rate of two percent, the incorporation of TVET into the school curriculum in Guyana is contributing to further reducing this rate.

This was the assertion of Assistant Chief Education Officer (Technical) Patrick Chinedu Onwuzirike who noted that TVET has been playing a critical role in the lives of many students.

According to statistics, which cover the period between 1995 and 2013, Guyana is leading the way in low school dropout rates in the region.

The data released by the Ministry of Education revealed that in the last 20 years Guyana has reduced the proportion of children dropping out at the general secondary level by more than 75 percent.

School dropout rates managed to decrease even

as student enrollment in General Secondary Schools have increased by more than 30,000.

The statistics were released after a study done by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB). The data suggested that Guyana has a dropout rate of two percent while countries like Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, Haiti and Barbados are prone to high dropout rates.

And the successes of this achievement by Guyana was credited, to some extent, to the incorporation of TVET in the school curriculum.

Once such TVET related programme Onwuzirike pointed out, is the Secondary Competency Certificate Programme (SCCP) which was introduced in 2008.

This programme, he explained, seeks to reduce school dropouts, shoreup equity and enhance quality and relevance in the area of technical and vocational education at the Grade nine and Grade ten levels.

Noting that over the last three years approximately 2,500 students have been successfully completing the programme, the ACEO said that the competency-based modularized programme is designed with strong emphasis being placed on what students can do in the workplace after completion of training.

A d d i t i o n a l l y, t h e SCCP also serves as an alternative pathway for the acquisition of knowledge, skills and desirable attitudes that will prepare

students for further training and/or the world of work.

And according to the ACEO, since the ► Continued

on page XVII

Students in the woodworking class of the Georgetown Technical Institute (GTI) practicing their skil

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TVET helping to curb school ... ► From page XV

introduction of this programme, teachers in secondary schools have reported a reduction in the dropout rate in schools.

“There is no statistics at this time but we have been speaking to teachers and other educators and they have reported that these programmes are helping to reduce the dropout rates in schools… and what must be understood is that TVET has an academic component to it. It is not only about skills training” Onwuzirike.

In the SCCP, students are tested in four subject areas, Mathematics, English, Science and Social Studies and are asked to choose an elective. These electives include skill-related subjects such as Catering, Garment Construction, Electrical Installation, Masonry and Carpentry among others.

In light of the fact that students are required to undergo academic training as well, Onwuzirike sought to dispel the notion that TVET is solely about skill training and practical work as opposed to academic work.

“People think there is no academic side to this, but the truth is, students are required to do subjects which are offered in the normal school curriculum. You cannot be a Doctor or a Lawyer without demonstrating that you have the knowhow and the necessary requirements to hold those positions. Similarly, persons in skill-related work need to demonstrate that they have the skills and the knowhow to get the job done.

Skill work is not a guessing game, so people have to be trained academically as well” he said.

And according to Onwuzirike, what is interesting to note, is the fact

that TVET programmes allow the student to work at their own pace.

“This programme goes with the pace of the student… it goes with the capacity of them and what they are able to absorb within a given time.”

Meanwhile, Guyana has recently been authorised to grant Caribbean Vocational Qualifications (CVQs) certificates for the so-called technical and vocational subjects.

What this means is that carpenters, masons, plumbers and others with certification from the country’s technical institutes could soon be able to travel and work hassle-free in the Caribbean.

And according to Education Minister, Dr. Rupert Roopnaraine, the implication of this development has far-reaching effects for CARICOM. “The movement of skills will be easily facilitated and accomplished,

since all of the countries will be operating within one human resource development education system. It will also provide one trajectory for the engagement of the rest of the world with regard to the movement of skills beyond the region,” Dr. Roopnaraine state.

With the introduction of this accreditation, Onwuzirike said that what will be pursued is having the SCCP done at the grade nine level and the CVQ at the grade 10 level. In addition, he noted that moves are being made to streamline and have TVET permanently integrated into the school curriculum.

Some of the TVET subjects offered presently at the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) are; Food and Nutrition, Building Technology, Technical Drawing, Visual Arts, etc.

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Chronicle Pepperpot September 25, 2016

From a school dropout and teen Mom to university graduate -How Kim Angus-Denis fulfilled her dream of becoming a nurse

By Svetlana Marshall KIM Angus-Dennis was just six years old when her mother had fallen into a state of depression.

“She would just sit there in a corner and not say anything. You would expect that a mother would speak to her children, relate to them, laugh with them or something, but she did nothing.”

It was a condition that Kim did not understand but one which had changed her life and the lives of her brothers and sisters in so many ways.

The second of six children, Kim was forced to leave school while in fourth form. At the time, she was a promising 15-year-old student at the Wismar Christianburg Multilateral School in Linden where she had lived after migrating from

Kim Angus-Dennis Alexander Village as a child.

Approximately two years after leaving school, Kim became pregnant and gave birth to her first child at the age of 18 in 1983.

“My daughter’s father had made many promises, and you know when you are young and in love you believe everything? I was like that. I believed

Kim Angus-Dennis attending to another patient him when he said he would come back, but two years after he left for the Sstates, we never heard back from him.”

By then, Kim’s older sister had left home, and her father soon followed.

“I think it became very challenging

for my father to look after us. Maybe he felt pressured, or maybe he could not deal with it all together, so he went to Kwakwani in 1985 and left us behind.”

After two long years of hardship, Kim in 1987, wrote her father inquiring about a possible job opening at Bauxite Company where he was working in Region 10.

At the time, the company was hiring employees’ children, and so in May 1987 she was a successful candidate after writing the Guyana Mining Enterprise Limited (GUYMINE) entrance exam.

At a result, on July 9, 1987 Kim began working in the company’s Electrical Department in Kwakwani as an electrical helper – a position she held for five years.

Though thankful for the opening, Kim felt the need to fulfill her calling.

“When my mother got sick, I didn’t understand. I didn’t understand what depression was, I didn’t know what mental illness was, and so from an early age I said to myself I must become a nurse, so I can understand these illnesses and be in a better position to held my mother.

So after five years I opted to be a nurse.”

Determined to fulfill her calling, Kim in 1991 wrote the Nurses Recruitment Examination and was successful. With a scholarship from the then bauxite company, which at the time had been renamed Berbice Mining Enterprise (BERMINE), the single mother of one commenced studies at the Charles Rosa School of Nursing in Linden in 1992 in her pursuit to become a Professional Nurse commonly known as a Registered Nurse (RN).

But her pursuit was not without challenges. By 1994, she became ► Continued

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From a school dropout and teen Mom ... ► From page

XVIII

pregnant with her second child and in January 1995 – nine months before her final examination, Kim was removed from the school.

“They said I broke the principles of the school.”

Upon returning to home, she worked as a Nurse Aid at the Kwakwani Hospital.

I n 1 9 9 8 , s h e re sumed her studies but this time at the Georgetown School of Nursing. She graduated in 2002. She later graduated from the Charles Rosa School of Nursing in 2007 after completing the one-year Midwifery Programme.

Her not having any Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC)

subjects did not prevent her from moving onto the next level.

In November 2011, she graduated from the University of Guyana with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing.

“I passed with Credit.

Had it not been for the grace of God, it would not have been possible,” Kim posited.

Kim has since re-

turned to Kwakwani Public Hospital where she continues to do her job selflessly.

It was her positive outlook on life, and love for her profession for which she diligently executes, that led her being presented with the prestigious Gloria Noel Award by the Guyana Nurses Association (GNA) last August.

Kim Angus-Dennis attending to one of her patients at the Kwakwani Public Hospital

Graduation Day November 2011

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Reviving music in

By Neil Marks

T

HE Dora Primary school sits on a white sand hill overlooking Demerara River.

To get to it, you take a drive of about one hour from Georgetown and head to the Linden-Soesdyke Highway.

With no sign telling you its specific location, your best bet is to ask anyone as you go along.

Once you are pointed to the exact sand trail, it takes about a three-mile drive through forest before a clear spot opens up and you see the school.

There are three teachers, namely, the head-teacher, a teacher for the nursery department and the guy we’ve come to meet, music teacher Marcellus Cornelius, age 36.

When a vacancy arose at the school back in 2004, his father encouraged him to apply, and he did. He completed the teacher’s training college and got down

to working, teaching any subject and working any classroom.

Currently, he teaches Grades 3, 5, 6 and also serves as the sports and music teacher.

Music was added to his list of duties in September, 2015 after he was called to Georgetown to take part in a one-month course in music.

Cornelius was among 90 teachers from Regions Three, Four and the Georgetown district who were selected to introduce music as a timetabled subject in their schools.

“It was always something I wanted to do,” he told the Sunday Chronicle when we visited the school last Tuesday.

The task at hand was to teach the children national school. Before, singing was just about getting the words right.

But now, the children are able to read musical notes and they are familiar with basic musical scales and

Primary teachers play the recorder at their graduation ceremony in August, 2005 pitches.

Things got a bit more exciting last April when the school received a set of recorders to add to its music programme.

Having to juggle so many classes, in addition to sports, there is only so much

time Sir Cornelius can dedicate to teaching music, but he is proud of the fact that two of his students can now play the national anthem using their recorders and just the musical notes in front of them.

“I don’t get enough time

I want. With music, if you’re teaching the children, you have to teach it right and the children have to learn it the right way.”

Now, the school faces the additional challenge of being without electricity for months. The solar system

went down and is yet to be fixed. That robs him of the opportunity to play music videos using the school’s TV or to play the piano accompaniment for the national songs.

But he has brought to school his own music player,

Students of the Dora Primary School use their recorders to play the national anthem as music teacher Marcellus Cornelius holds up the notes

Chronicle Pepperpot September 25, 2016

XXI

n primary schools resembling a car, and plays the piano accompaniment, but when the battery dies, as it often does, it’s back to square one.

Despite the time constraint, Sir Cornelius is determined to continue, as he is already seeing the benefits of the music classes.

Sir Cornelius says it important that a child be exposed to music as it only serves to enhance the learning process, something that he has seen personally.

For example, one of his Grade Six students struggled with completing a few lines of poetry, but after he was introduced to the music programme, things improved drastically.

“After learning music, he was learning entire poems, including difficult ones, and now he is off to secondary school!”

Ms Desiree Wyles-Ogle of the Allied Arts Department of the Ministry of Education, oversees the music programme in primary schools.

She says that so far 2,

500 of the recorders have been bought and are now in other schools.

The music programme has now been added to schools in Regions Two, Five and Six with 170 teachers from 85 primary schools having completed training last August.

“We would really like the children to enjoy their school life, to enrich their school life,” MS WhylesOgle told the Sunday Chronicle in a recent interview.

“I find a lot of people feel if you do the arts you’re taking something out of your brain and that it would be distracting to your academic performance.

“But the arts don’t take away, it enhances learning.

Children are able to think creatively, to be disciplined, t work as a team. All of these skills are necessary for learning and will benefit them throughout their life.”

What’s more, she says the focus of national songs in schools is helping to develop children who are passionate about their country.

“We need children who

can have a sense of patriotism and ownership to this country; it just doesn’t come, we have to teach them.”

Apart from the August training programmes, she said the teachers selected for the music programme will be trained periodically.

In order to boost their qualifications, some teachers are being prepared to write the Royal Music Academy exams.

The teachers being trained are all dedicated to the task at hand.

Ingrid Harris, the only teacher from Region One who attended the last training programme, said she would be seeking to transfer her knowledge to the students of the Santa Rosa Primary School.

After completing the programme, she said: “I will be trying my best to impart what I have learnt here when I go back to my region, and help them to bring back music into the school because it is dying in our region.”

Education Minister, Dr. Rupert Roopnarine presents a certificate to a primary teacher who graduated from the first workshop for teachers in August, 2015

Students of the Dora Primary play a national song using their recorders

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Chronicle Pepperpot September 25, 2016

–– a new variety of tomato in Guyana

Average size of the Pik Ripe variety of tomato ASK Carlos Baker anything about producing tomatoes and he knows.

But, he is not going to share the tricks of trade since his livelihood depends on tomato production.

The only advice he is willing to share is that crop rotation is important. Most of his knowledge about farming is gained through trial and error.

Years of experience have informed Baker that the soil is a crucial element in farming. “I find if you plant tomatoes or any other crop for that matter, do not plant it again right after harvesting. P plant another crop, then you can plant tomato again. If you don’t do that pest and disease will attack your crop more,” he said.

Baker is a second generation farmer who has been planting tomatoes among other crops for decades. He prides himself in producing high quality

tomatoes. Perhaps at some point, whilst dining, you may have had consumed tomatoes produced on his five-acre farm, located in Mahaicony, Region Five.

After all, his client list includes city restaurants, hotels and stall holders.

Baker works on his farm daily. “Farming is like any other job; you have to be dedicated to it. I experienced many failures on my farm but I have learnt from those mistakes. The most important thing that keep you farming is love. You have to love farming to be successful,” Baker stated.

Baker grows different varieties. In Guyana the tomato varieties are described as Creole and English. Within the Creole family are the small rounded cherry types and the large flat types. English are those varieties that are imported and include Heat Wave, Heat Master, Calypso, Capital, and F1 Mongo.

Recently, he partnered

with the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI) to produce the Pik Ripe variety. This is a high quality hybrid tomato produced in Mexico. It is sturdy and has a fruitlike quality.

The Institute had supplied 600 seedlings to Baker for cultivation. Half of that amount was planted on a demonstration plot using NAREI’s techniques, while the remaining 300 was grown according to Baker’s practices.

Baker found that the Pik Ripe variety is sturdier than the popular Mongol variety. One tree produces around 20 pounds of tomatoes. Marketing the pik ripe is no trouble since consumers are attracted to its high quality appearance.

Tomato is a major cash crop grown by farmers throughout Guyana. The quantity of tomatoes produced locally is more than sufficient for the domestic market. According to sta-

tistics obtained by NAREI, 21,480MT (Metric Ton) of tomatoes were produced in 2015, almost doubling the quantity that was produced in 2013.

This sweet juicy vegetable could be consumed raw, cooked or processed into juices, sauces, ketchup or paste. And, for many Guyanese it is probably the most colorful vegetable in the salad bowl.

Although, the pronunciation of tomato is debatable there is no question about its health benefits.

Some benefits of including tomato in one’s diet are strong bones, healthy skin, reduced exposure to several cancers, keep blood sugar in balance, improve vision, and prevent kidney stones and gallstones.

So the next time, you visit the market remember to purchase your locally grown tomatoes.

Who knows maybe you will be consuming a tomato from Mr. Baker’s farm.

Mr Baker examines some of his plants

Assistant Extension officer Esther Lewis evaluating yield of the tomato plants (Pik Ripe variety) at Mr. Barker’s farm.

Chronicle Pepperpot September 25, 2016

Let’s Aim for Litter Free Sports

SEPTEMBER and October is that time of the year, when schools run off their sports events. As school and sports grounds transform into arenas of high energy and competition, it is important that we all strive to keep these spaces free of litter.

The onus on keeping our sports venues free of litter lies on all of us. As such,

all involved should make a point of putting measures in place to let spectators and athletes alike do the litter free thing.

So whether you are the sports event â–ş Contiuned

on page XXIII

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Let’s Aim for Litter Free ... ► From page XXIII

coordinator, venue manager, spectator, athlete, vendor or sponsor - do your part!

Plan for Litter Free Sports We need to plan for litter free sports!

All sports people – organizers, managers, athletes, vendors and spectators have a great opportunity to be involved and to lead the race in the fight against littering.

What’s more, joining this litter free race will bring big rewards of a clean environment and keep more money in your pockets!

As you develop a plan to reduce waste and littering at your sports events you should take care to: 1. Share your plan with key stake-

holders e.g. organizers; vendors; patrons; athletes grounds men etc.

2. Provide the necessary infrastructure for the plan to work e.g. Bins; signs.

3. Market your plan – let people know what you plan to do.

4. Evaluate your plan i.e. have you covered all the important steps to make it work?

Get support for your plan A plan is only as good as the support it gets. So make sure that your cover your bases and lobby the support of key people: • Event Organizer (s): This person/ company needs to a plan for how the waste will be managed on the ground.

• Venue owner: This person needs to know in advance what services the venue will need to provide.

• Vendors: These persons will need to know that they must use biodegradable packaging for food. They also need to know that must provide bins for some patrons to dispose used packaging and bottles.

• Contractors: These persons who will be provide services, such as electricity, building and dismantling of structures etc. should be aware of their responsibilities to minimize waste.

• Waste Collecting Service: They need to be informed of prompt and adequate scope for collecting and removal of waste after the event.

Enjoy litter free sports!

Now that you have planned for and involved the right people to support your Litter Free Sports Plan, you can go ahead and enjoy the sports! Invite the media to you sports event and promote your efforts to make it litter free. Do remember to mention all the people who made your plan work and encourage others to follow your lead.

After the sports event, assess your litter free plan, keep the things that worked and think of how you can improve on those that did not work. Then use opportunities during the school year to remind students and teachers of its importance, so that when the next sports events season comes around you will have even more supporters for litter free sports!

Do the right thing, report litterbugs on 600-0620 (anytime) or 225-5467 ext. 275 (08:00h-16:30h).

A message from the Environmental Protection Agency

KIDS ACTIVITY

► Contiuned on page XXV

Chronicle Pepperpot September 25, 2016

'The Environment is everybody business' You can share your ideas and questions by sending letters to: “Our Earth, Our Environment”, C/O EIT Division, Environmental Protection Agency, Ganges Street, Sophia, GEORGETOWN, or email us at: eit.epaguyana@gmail.com

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The Green Engineering syllabus

IT was hailed as promoting “green thinking” in the Caricom region and the launching of the Green Engineering syllabus by the Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) for its Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE) in Guyana was deemed a timely move by the region’s education oversight body.

Accordingly , the stage is being set for the development of the green engineer sector as young academics have already indicated their intention of pursuing careers in the that field of study.

Green Engineering, according to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is the design, commercialization, and use of processes and products in a way that minimizes pollution, promotes sustainability, and protects human health without sacrificing economic viability and efficiency.

CXC launched the syllabus in Guyana on July 27, 2016 at a forum which was attended by several educators and officials with vested interest in the greening of Guyana.

According to CXC, the green engineering course will enable students to acquire the knowledge, skills, values and attitudes needed to sustain the natural environment. It is aimed at enabling students to apply, scientific, technological, engineering and mathematical (STEM) principles to improve their environment at the local, regional and global levels.

“Green engineering is therefore an immediate import and application to Guyana,” Education Minister , Dr Rupert Roopnaraine said at the launching , adding that offering a course in green engineering is most timely from the standpoint of developing the manpower required by Guyana for the implementation of its policy of a green economy.

Providing a description of the aims of the syllabus, CXC noted that the course is aimed at enhancing the students’ awareness of the broad environmental, social and economic impact of engineering. It will create an understanding of how to incorporate the principles of sustainability into engineering practices while promoting awareness of the global challenges related to the environment and the impact of decisions on present and future generations.

Academically, it will ensure the student develop the capacity for critical thinking, creativity and innovation, problem solving, contextual learning, collaboration, emotional intelligence, entrepreneurial skills and technological competence through authentic learning experiences.

CXC noted too that the syllabus will integrate information, communication and technological (ICT) tools and skills.

After completing the syllabus and relevant examination, there are several professions which persons can pursue after mastering the requisite field of study. These include that of an air quality forecaster, chemical engineer, solar engineer, geoscientist, wetland specialist, petroleum engineer, geophysical engineer and a wind energy engineer. These are all fields which are applicable to Guyana’s “green sector.”

This year young academics have noted their plans to pursue studies in the green engineering field, including Guyana’s 2016 CSEC top student Fatima Karima who obtained 19 grade one passes at the 2016 edition of the examination.

Karim, in an interview with this publication , made her academic intentions known and she has already established her academic study pathway in her pursuit of becoming a petroleum engineer.

Berbice top student at the 2016 examination, Joshua Indarjit also has his eyes set on pursuing a career in the field of green engineering. Indarjit , who obtained 17 grade one passes at this year’s examination told this publication during an interview that he hopes to earn a scholarship to pursue his dream of becoming a physicist or a petroleum engineer.

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Education Minister, Dr Rupert Roopnaraine (second right) and other ministry officials being briefed by BrainStreet Group Chief Executive Officer, Lance Hinds on animation projects following the launch of the programme last July

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Chronicle Pepperpot September 25, 2016

What it means to be a student of QC

By Vishani Ragobeer

LABELLED as the premier secondary institution in Guyana, Queen’s College is a diverse institution that has surmounted 172 years of existence. As a student of Queen’s College, I can attest that this school fosters academic and co-curricular growth of its students, though many may contest otherwise.

Many times our Guyanese folks and even those in the greater Caribbean, look at Queen’s College as the par-

amount academic institution. This is as a result of their cognizance of the unfaltering levels of exceptional CSEC and CAPE results produced every year.

Writing more than 11 subjects at the CSEC level is a highly controversial topic in our society, but happens to be a common feat at Queen’s College.

At this year’s Education Month rally held on 16th September, the Minister of Education, Dr Rupert Roopnarine said “Children who come out with a deep sense of culture, who understand comradeship, whose humanity is

enlarged” are the attributes he wishes all children in the education system would possess, instead of writing many subjects.

Two of this year’s CSEC top students from QC, Aadilah Alli and Kayshav Tewari, who copped 22 and 19 subjects respectively, participated in many co-curricular activities. Kayshav actively took part in sporting activities while Aadilah was involved in arts and craft; they were both actively involved their respective religious clubs and in debating.

At Queen’s College, no student is exclusively academic. We have a multitude of clubs and societies that caters for each student’s individuality and interest. Need I add that we are also very social? Dance and Drama, Debating and Sporting competitions aren’t left out either- as we participate in these too, and sometimes we win!

Stepping entirely outside of the academic realm of QC however, there is the rich history and legacy that accompanies the institution’s existence since 1844. This history and legacy is one which is celebrated throughout the world by the young and the old- who all share the commonality of being a QC student.

The institution has surpassed both World Wars and honours the past masters and old boys from QC that fought in these wars each year at the annual Remembrance Day Ceremony.

The Guyanese culture is not left out of the mix- as we also have our annual Inter-house cultural dance competition and Cultural Day, which both take place right around “Mash” time, where Guyanese wear and dance are displayed and food and drink are on display (and well... for sale).

Let’s not forget our Annual Inter-house Sport’s Day… or should I say month? All through September, each year, every single student is involved in marching, or in throwing sports such as discus, shot put and javelin- or in athletics- or all of these events. Throughout “Sports Month” the students all try their hardest to earn points for their respective “houses.” There is also a “Fitness Competition” where the houses send forth their fittest warriors in each age category to compete in this event.

On Sport’s Day, the month-long events culminate into the March Pass- a kaleidoscope of the school’s houses adorned in their house colours and then the Athleticswhere the best of QC’s ten houses emerge victorious!

The legacy and diversity that emulates from Queen’s College and the fact of Queen’s College students being well-rounded while remaining steadfast to their academics- all show what it means to be QC.

Chronicle Pepperpot September 25, 2016

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Cowboys, heat and rain: 'Magnificent Seven' talk challenging shoot (REUTERS) BRINGING the American Wild West to life was no easy task, just ask the cast of "The Magnificent Seven," who endured scorching heat and torrential rain in wool costumes in the Louisiana summer.

"We had a lot of lightning, thunder issues where we had to shut (production) down, but the heat was just constant," Denzel Washington, who plays bounty hunter Sam Chisholm, told Reuters.

"The Magnificent Seven," a remake of the 1960 classic, is directed by An-

Actors Denzel Washington and Chris Pratt pose with a horse during the red carpet of the movie 'The Magnificent Seven' at the 73rd Venice Film Festival in Venice, Italy September 10, 2016. REUTERS/Alessandro Bianchi

toine Fuqua and opens in theatres on Friday. It's a remake, with an ethnically diverse cast, of John Sturges' 1960 Western of the same name which in turn was adapted from Akira Kurosawa's 1954 Japanese-language film "Seven Samurai.

The movie about a rogue band of outlaws and hired hands who come together at the behest of a widow to protect a small gold mining town â–ş Contiuned on page XXXII

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Chronicle Pepperpot September 25, 2016

Cowboys, heat and rain: 'Magnificent Seven' talk ... â–ş From page XXXI from a murderous baron took five months to shoot.

"It was raining and we were wear-

ing all these clothes and we're in the middle of nowhere... There's nowhere to hide and we were all on set because if we're not in the scene then we're in the background of the scene so were all around all the time," said Ethan Hawke,

who plays sharpshooter Goodnight Robicheaux.

"Byung-Hun Lee and I spent five weeks up in that church steeple, every day, it was blazing hot, sitting up there shooting bad guys day after day," he added.

Lee, who plays the knife-throwing Billy Rocks, said temperatures reached 110 degrees Fahrenheit (43 Centigrade), with 90 percent humidity.

"Now we can say it's a good memory but at the time it was so hard," the actor said.

"It was kind of hell," said Manuel Garcia-Rulfo, who plays Mexican outlaw Vasquez.

Other cast members include alcoholic gambler Josh Farraday (Chris Pratt), bear-like hunter Jack Horne (Vincent D'Onofrio) and Native American warrior Red Harvest (Martin Sensmeier).

"These are all people that would not typically be cast in this type of movie fifty years ago. The original 'Magnificent Seven' save for maybe Charles Bronson were all white dudes," Pratt said.

Chronicle Pepperpot September 25, 2016

Naomi Campbell leads bold Versace runway in Milan (REUTERS) ON a catwalk featuring Naomi Campbell, Gigi Hadid and Irina Shayk, Italian design house Versace presented a bold, multi-faceted collection for women on Friday.

As she had done for the men's collection, artistic director Donatella Versace opened the spring and summer show, with airy windbreaker jackets in green, purple and blue.

They were matched with leggings and rucksacks and

parachute-like dresses in high-tech fabrics, giving a sports flair to a part of the collection, mostly in black purple and green.

Other parts of the show included thinly pleated creations with knitted details or fluid silk dresses and skirts with optical patterns which included the brand's fret motif.

In a rare cameo, Naomi Campbell walked in a athleisure look with a layered blue and red wraparound skirt with matching cropped blouse with a zipper. She wore knee-high laced blue and red boots and carried a rucksack.

For a complete change of style for the evening, Versace woman changed into clear-cut, black designs, with short dresses and skin tights suits, embellished by crystal details giving off metallic reflections.

A red net dress with sequins stood out from the total black looks on show on the third day of Milan fashion week.

The models strutted along a zig-zag shaped catwalk to the beat of electronic music.

"This show is for women taking chances. Take a leap," spoke a women's voice over the pounding rhythm.

The brand famous for its Medusa head logo, in May named Jonathan Akeroyd, the former head of British brand Alexander McQueen, as its new chief executive in an unexpected move ahead of a planned stock market listing.

Milan fashion week runs until Monday and Italian brands Blumarine and Ermanno Scervino will showcase their collections on Saturday.

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Chronicle Pepperpot September 25, 2016

Bollywood Movie Review: Parched

(REUTERS) IN Leena Yadav's "Parched", three women in an arid village of Rajasthan fight separate battles and find reserves of strength in each other to help tide over tough times.

Lajjo (Radhika Apte) faces ostracism from the community and violence from her alcoholic husband for failing to conceive. She finds solace in her friendship with Rani (Tannishtha Chatterjee), a 32-year-old widow whose only desire is to get her teenage son married to a beautiful girl. The two women are also friends with Bijli (Surveen Chawla), a dancer in a travelling troupe that visits the village each year.

The film focuses on these three women and their emancipation. In Rani's case, it is her son who treats her with contempt. He doesn't like the bride his mother has chosen for him. Rani, conditioned to blame the wife for the husband's troubles, focuses her anger on the child bride - until she has an epiphany and sheds a lifetime of conditioning in a moment.

Yadav's film is full of such quick-fix solutions and overtly obvious messaging. When a man meets what a character seems to think is his rightful end,

the backdrop used is that of the Dussehra festival and the Hindu demon Ravana burning, with portentous announcements about how good overcame evil.

Which is a pity, because at the heart of "Parched" is a story of women and their kinship, which is a universal theme.

The conversations the women have are some of the best parts of the film - their talk is at once poignant and bawdy, punctuated by giggles and long silences.

All three leads shine in parts, especially Chawla, who brings a raw, wounded quality to Bijli's otherwise effervescent dancer personality, but the performances are hampered by some predictable writing and a director who seems to treat her characters and setting as a tourist rather than someone with an insider's point of view.

Coming as it does on the heels of "Pink" last week, "Parched" seems a little too contrived to be a memorable tale of women empowerment.

Chronicle Pepperpot September 25, 2016

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Chronicle Pepperpot September 25, 2016

Chronicle Pepperpot September 25, 2016

ARIES Your high hopes may be justified today as others arrive with good news or much-needed assistance. However, it's tempting to confuse the messenger with the message, creating an instant attraction that might be so exciting you toss caution to the wind. Fortunately, the buoyancy you're feeling can lead to an exciting opportunity if you believe in your dream. Don't be afraid to go public with a visionary idea or pursue a personal relationship. Just remember that making a promise is easy, yet turning it into reality still requires a concrete plan and consistent follow-through.

TAURUS You're ready to take on the world today and are eager to start by making big changes to your lifestyle. The confident Sun-Jupiter conjunction lands in your 6th House of Daily Routine, encouraging you to believe you will improve your well-being by simply shaking up your health regimen. However, you may be overestimating how much you can transform all at once. Although you can't control everything in your environment, you're capable of managing the details of your life. Attending to the little things now makes the larger things easier to handle.

GEMINI Romance is in the air today and your exuberance opens the doors to new possibilities with nearly everyone you meet. Your effervescence spills out into the world as the Sun joins limitless Jupiter in your 5th House of Love and Creativity. You can make a strong case for anything if you don't overwhelm others with too much information. It's easier to get what you want when you don't clutter the conversation with extraneous details.

You can't miss as long as you consider your audience.

CANCER Your ambitions may be larger than life now, so you must be careful not to let your optimism get out of hand. The expansive Sun-Jupiter conjunction falls in your 4th House of Security, gracing you with a copious amount of self-confidence. You can't help but smile now because on a deep level you know that anything can be accomplished if you believe in yourself. Author Paulo Coelho writes, "It's the possibility of having a dream come true that makes life interesting."

LEO Your heart is swelling with emotions and your brain is bursting with big ideas today.

However, it may be tricky to turn your current positivity into something of lasting value. A busy day that's buzzing with social interactions can be a lot of fun now. In fact, your enthusiasm is contagious as the Sun joins jovial Jupiter in your 3rd House of Information. But don't put so much attention on external events that you lose touch with your own magic. As Maya Angelou wrote, "Nothing can dim the light which shines from within."

VIRGO You might believe that you're unstoppable today, even if you don't have all your facts straight. Fortunately, the buoyant Sun-Jupiter conjunction in your 2nd House of SelfWorth empowers you with enough swagger that others may not even realize something isn't quite right. Oddly enough, trusting your instincts now won't betray your lack of solid information. For once, don't sweat the small stuff; the sky is the limit.

LIBRA Your optimism soars today, expanding your vision and opening your heart to the potential beyond the limits that normally shape your life. The Sun's annual conjunction to auspicious Jupiter occurs in your sign, marking the beginning of a new opportunity cycle. Rather than thinking about situations that may be impeding your progress, focus on the distant horizon and project the best possible scenario you can imagine into your future. Your positive attitude protects you against self-doubt and allows you to ride a rising tide to greater joy and recognition.

SCORPIO One phase of your spiritual growth is coming to a close, preparing you for the next round of metaphysical explorations. A propitious Sun-Jupiter party in your 12th House of Destiny transforms a casual meeting into a life-changing event. Respond to the energetic shifts with confidence, but remember that you're not invincible. This is no time to get lazy, even if everything seems to be under control. Don't miss this rare opportunity to set the stage for what's ahead. Good things come to those who earn it.

SAGITTARIUS Your star is on the rise now as a result of gaining critical support from old colleagues and making vital new connections. Finding more joyful ways of expressing yourself comes naturally while the Sun joins good-natured Jupiter in your 11th House of Social Networking. You are an inspiration to others and your contribution to your community can garner respect and cast you in a leadership position. This is truly a time that you help yourself by helping others. Fortunately, the more you give, the more you receive in return.

CAPRICORN You may see amazing opportunities everywhere you look today. But the best news is you can actually turn your thoughts into reality as the Sun bumps into lucky Jupiter in your 10th House of Status. You are extremely persuasive now when you combine your charm and pragmatism to get what you want. Unfortunately, it's all too easy to be distracted by so many choices. Minimize the stress associated with big changes by focusing on one single goal and keeping your eyes on the prize. Simplification is never as simple as it sounds.

AQUARIUS Fortunately, your efforts toward achieving success are close to culmination and the future is calling you with important clues about your new direction. Although the recognition you deserve is waiting, you must pay attention to the signs in order to reach your destination. You might think you can rest upon your laurels now, but one more push may be necessary. Don't be afraid to strut your stuff at work so others see you at your best. It's time to collect your rewards and then move on toward your next adventure. Dream big and live large.

PISCES It appears as if the universe is offering you the support you need to pursue a persistent dream. A benevolent Sun-Jupiter conjunction occurs in your 8th House of Shared Resources, granting you the money and expertise required for a pet project or to achieve a long-term goal. What others do to come to your aid will not attract overdue attention now, but serves you in a way that will impact your life for months to come. Author Jim Rohn wrote, "Happiness is not something you postpone for the future; it is something you design for the present."

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CXC ENGLISH

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THOUGHT FOR THE DAY

The king reigns, and the people govern themselves.

LOUIS ADOLPHE THIERS (1797-1877), Le National, 20th.

January, 1830 STUDY SUCCESS Dear Student, The paragraph may have a lead sentence that gives general knowledge, with the remaining sentences providing the details.

The lead sentence does not have to come first, but quite often it does. It helps the other sentences fit together. By arranging sentences carefully, adding words and phrases that help combine them, the structure results in a smooth-flowing paragraph. Be wise.

Love you THE EXCERPT Ten thousand vehicles careened through the Fig Tree Park this perfect afternoon. Such a show! And I have seen all – watch’d it narrowly, and at some leisure. Private barouches, cabs, and coupés, some fine horseflesh – lapdogs, footmen, fashions, foreigners, cockades on hats, crests on panels – the full oceanic tide of New York’s wealth and ‘gentility’. It was an impressive, rich, international circus on a grand scale, full of action and colour in the beauty of the day, under the clear sun and moderate breeze.

Yet what I saw in those hours (I took two other occasions, two other afternoons to watch the same scene) confirms a thought that haunts me every additional glimpse I get of our top-lofty general or rather exceptional phases of wealth and fashion in this country – namely, that they are ill at ease, much too conscious, cased in too many cerements, and far from happy – that there is nothing in them which we who are poor and plain need at all envy, and that instead of the perennial smell of the grass and woods and shores, their typical redolence is of soaps and essences, very rare may be, but suggesting the barber shop – something that turns stale and musty in a few hours anyway.

What an interesting way for a writer to set down personal and private observations of his fellow humankind! Have you ever tried being as direct as the unnamed writer above? Try this approach some time soon. We hope it appeals to you.

Something Else to Do Let’s set you some questions to make sure that the writer’s message and intent are properly assessed.

1. In what sense is each of the following words used in the passage? a) careening? b) ‘gentility’ c) cerements d) redolence 2. Surely you do not really think ten thousand vehicles were at Fig Tree Park? The writer must certainly have used figurative language. State what figure of speech was used, and why.

3. Why do you think the writer termed the happening at Fig Tree Park an “interminable circus on a grand scale”? Explain this to a study partner.

WRITING A STORY Make up a story: Write about a young girl who is greatly influenced by parental guidance alongside other worthy, influential, and approved persons in her environment. Her parents are highly successful professionals and each rightly so. Along what

Chronicle Pepperpot September 25, 2016

career path would you place her in your moving story? What experiences would you make her face to realise her success? Do try to write better this time around.

Personal Check: What areas have you mastered in writing so far? Check your last two compositions and come up with a fair response, then resolve to add more writing skills to aid reader interest and a good examination grade.

Bring the Story to Life: There are many options here. This one is very sure.

Use of Dialogue: Write: “You are special, “Sandra told her son and two grandsons regularly. “You can do anything to which you put your clear hearts.”

Instead of: Sandra told her son and two grandsons that they were special and could do anything to which they put their clear hearts.

Proper Dialogue Punctuation: Examples: a) “Do you see why grandmother does not trust anything you calculate!” admonished Kizzy.

“No. You tell me!” retorted half-brother Simon. b) “The vagabonds are still in hiding,” said the scared motherin-law after a while.

“But what a long way we are from the river station, Mother,” the timid young daughter proffered in squeaky tones.

ANOTHER PASSAGE Read the passage and then answer questions (1) and (2).

It would be salutary, if difficult, to calculate the total expenditure on school and travel since the close of the last century. The sum would be worth doing because it would raise the interesting question of how much value we were getting for our money. Nothing is easier, of course, than to pour scorn. For many children, the legendary Kaieteur Falls seems to be the most impressive memory of their tours across Guyana’s hinterland.

This might be held to set the cultural value of such trips in a queer light. School heads again will be found to say that the linguistic results of their tours are usually negligible. Their usefulness, however, is almost certainly of a different order. Travel is a pleasure and the imagination is quickened by novel scenes and circumstances. If the tour has been carefully prepared during a term, it may even be educational in a direct sense.

(Slightly adapted from: “Comment in Brief”) Attend to the Question Explain concisely the meaning of each phrase below: a) value for our money d) of a different order b) in a queer light e) quickened by novel scenes c) linguistic results of their tours Reading: Author’s Purpose Read the selection. Then respond to the question.

I believe that the only solution to the traffic jam in Austin Street is to create a bypass. City traffic records show that more than 80 percent of the traffic on Austin Street is simply passing through. These are drivers who are going somewhere else but have no choice except to drive on Austin Street. These drivers would almost always use the bypass, thus reducing the traffic on Austin Street. The city engineer says that Fern place can be widened to serve as a bypass. This construction would cost relatively little and could be finished in less than a month. From my point of view, this is an obvious solution to the problem.

Question: What is the author’s overall purpose? a) to inform c) to reflect b) to entertain d) to teach

Chronicle Pepperpot September 25, 2016

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Regional show is Bollywood’s new promotional hot ticket

(REUTERS) A garish, sometimes tacky but always boisterous Marathi show is Bollywood’s new hot ticket when it comes to promoting films, signalling an increased focus on regional markets.

“Chala Hawa Yeu Dya” (slang in Marathi for ‘relax’ and a phrase that means ‘let the air through’) is a prime-time TV comedy and chat show with an impressive line-up of Bollywood stars as celebrity guests, including the likes of Salman Khan, Shah Rukh Khan and Akshay Kumar.

Most Bollywood films stick to mainstream Hindi serials and shows during promotional tours to ensure maximum eyeballs, but consistent viewership ratings for “Chala Hawa Yeu Dya” have helped change movie promotion strategies.

“The first person to come on our show was Riteish Deshmukh earlier this year. Then John Abraham promoted Rocky Handsome on it,” Nilesh Mayekar, business head for Zee Marathi, told Reuters.

“For us, it is a matter of prestige that Bollywood requires a Marathi show to promote their films,” he said.

“Chala Hawa Yeu Dya” gets between 1.89 and 2.0 points

Shah Rukh Khan during the filming of “Chala Hawa Yeu Dya” in viewership ratings, on par with the Hindi-language “The Kapil Sharma Show”. Both shows combine slapstick comedy, sexist jokes and celebrity guests, a potent mix that Indian TV viewers seem to love. They also pull in ratings that make industry executives wonder at the reach of an hour-long appearance on the show.

“We go by numbers, and internal research has shown that this show has worked for us in the past,” a source at a production house said.

“In movie marketing, when one show or a concept works out, everyone else tends to follow.”

Most Hindi film promotions include visits to cities like Ahmedabad or Chandigarh, but so far regional television hadn’t really made it to Bollywood’s calendar for promotional events.

On a recent episode of “Chala Hawa Yeu Dya”, Akshay Kumar performed a salutation to the elephant-headed god Ganesha (who is much revered in Maharashtra) at the beginning of the episode. He spoke in broken Marathi, eliciting loud cheers from the audience, and smiled beatifically as some of the regulars on the show danced to some of his songs.

Kumar was promoting “Rustom”, a film based on the trial of naval officer K M Nanavati, which went on to gross more than 1.73 billion rupees ($25.8 million) at the box office, making it one of the year’s most successful films. The film earned more than 400 million rupees ($6 million) from the Mumbai market alone, which makes up parts of Maharashtra, neighbouring Gujarat and Goa. “Regional is where the new focus is, and it is natural that marketing strategy should veer towards Maharashtra, which is one of the biggest markets for Bollywood,” the source said.

Maharashtra is also one of the regional markets where Bollywood has to jostle for space with a robust film industry

that has more than its share of fans. Earlier this year, Nagraj Manjule’s “Sairat” (Wild) ran in cinemas for more than three months, earning over one billion rupees ($15 million), a record for a Marathi film.

It is only in the last few years that Bollywood has begun to pay attention to offerings from its home state, for long ignored as a poor cousin of the Hindi film industry. Marathi films suffered as Bollywood projects with bigger budgets and flashier subjects took over their audiences, but a resurgence in storytelling and a new breed of young directors have helped

them reclaim their turf and compete with Hindi films.

Regional films contributed to more than 30 percent of revenues at some national multiplex chains in two out of four quarters in 2015, according to a report by consulting firm KPMG. “For us, it is an indication that Maharashtra is an important market for the industry and our show is the best way to reach that market,” Mayekar said.

“We don’t really need Bollywood in our show. They need us.”