ILC News 15: Condorito Icon of the Chilean spirit by I Love Chile News

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Condorito: Icon of the Chilean Spirit www.ilovechile.cl

SEPTEMBER 2011 / TABLE OF CONTENTS

STAFF Publisher & CEO Daniel Brewington Editor In Chief Julie Gibson Managing Editor Kelsey Bennett Copy Editor Sharon Ewing Travel Editor Jonathan Franklin Chief Strategy Officer Pamela Lagos Corporate & Special Projects Shonika Proctor Sales & Marketing Steve Halsey Online Editor Kayla Young News Desk Bárbara Hermosilla Contributors Shonika Proctor Harper Bridgers Pablo Retamal Ian Gilbert Marcelle Dubruel Ben Angel Pepe Rawlinson Alexis Psarras Jonathan Franklin Andrea Cibotti Nick Levine Laura Seelau Ryan Seelau Kelsey Bennett Monica Gilbert-Saez David Wilson Pamela Villablanca Mamiko Ito Colin Bennett David Wilson

Letter From the Editor As we are about to celebrate Chile’s 201st birthday amid a myriad of social unrest, it’s easy to jump on the global bandwagon and say that everything is going wrong. The media thrives on bad news. They report on wars, crimes, famines, recessions, diseases and disasters all the time. Such news, they say, sells. But in reality Chile is doing amazingly well. We are enjoying the lowest unemployment in years and we seem to have completely missed the global financial crisis that is griping the rest of the world. Chile has so much to be thankful for on this Dieciocho. So how do we stay focused on the positive when we are constantly surrounded by negative images and ideas from the media? Many of our family and friends may be negative because of concerns over their careers, health, relationships or the world in general. From any of these angles we may be bombarded with doom and gloom. Remember that you are responsible for creating your own outlook on life; even if other people tend to be negative, you can choose to be happy and positive. You can make the conscious choice to focus only on the aspects of society and your life that make you feel positive. Surround yourself with friends who have a positive outlook. Avoid spending time with friends and colleagues who are downers, as their negativity can rub off on you. Spend more time with people who are happy, easy-going and enjoy focusing on the positive things in life. Set time aside for yourself each day to engage in an activity that is healthy and fun. When you give to yourself, it will help your overall attitude and perspective.

At least for one day Chileans and foreigners alike can set aside the problems plaguing the country and the world and focus only on what Chile has accomplished over the last 201 years. No doubt we have a lot to celebrate! Felices Fiestas!

Finally, be thankful for your situation in life, realizing that we are truly blessed just to be here. Life is such a special gift! People with a strong sense of gratitude, love and appreciation don’t necessarily have more than others; they simply recognize and see more beauty in their lives. If you are grateful, you will see the world differently. You will see that there are always good things behind everything that happens and you will realize that your life is wonderful, and you will be full of joy. At least for one day Chileans and foreigners alike can set aside the problems plaguing the country and the world and focus only on what Chile has accomplished over the last 201 years. No doubt we have a lot to celebrate! Felices Fiestas! Sincerely, Julie Gibson Editor

Photographers Gardner Hamilton Daniel Brewington Lorenzo Moscia Rodrigo Unda Felipe Burgos Design Alfonso Gálvez Translations Mary Tapia Interns Katie Bolin Avery Cropp The I Love Chile Office is located on Loreto 6, Bellavista, Santiago, Chile Our office hours are from 10:00 am to 5:00pm Monday to Friday Contact Phone: +56 (02) 732 26 39 Out of hours contact+ 56 (09) 7 549 1513 To contact our newsdesk email: prensa@ilovechile.cl or press@ilovechile.cl To contact administration email: info@ilovechile.cl To contact advertising email: pamela@ilovechile.cl

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Table of Contents Page 3 Page 4 - 5 Page 6 - 7 Page 8 - 9 Page 10 - 11 Page 12 Page 13 Page 14 Page 15 - 18 Page 19 Page 20 - 21 Page 22 - 23 Page 23 Page 24 - 25 Page 26 Page 27 Page 28 Page 29 Page 30 Page 31

Letter of Editor / Advertiser Profile News Round Up Student Protests Rock Santiago The 21 Quantifying las Fiestas Patrias Chile Supreme Court Rules in Favor of Indigenous Rights La Cueca: A Timeless Chilean Tradition Patriotic Parties Saucepans, Google and Teachers Colegio Colonial de Pirque: The School that Love Built Condorito: Icon of the Chilean Spirit What are we scared of? Aviso Museo EFM Battles, Babies and the Fight for Chilean Independence Spring Detox Why The Dieciocho is Go Green Time! Secrets of the Andes Just What is Chicha Anyways? Abundant Women are Empowered Women ILC Recommends

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NEWS / SEPTEMBER 2011

News round-up By Andrea Cibotti

Photo: Rodrigo Unda

Chilean president proposes bill to legalize gay unions

The historic day came quietly announced, getting little coverage by the local press, undoubtedly overshadowed by the Chilean education crisis, which has dominated the Chilean media for the last few months. On August 9, Chile’s conservative president Sebastian Piñera proposed a legislation that will recognize civil unions for heterosexual and same-sex couples. The proposal was signed and sent to Congress, hoping to give respect, dignity and similar marriage rights to all those couples who choose to live together but not marry. Piñera’s announcement, if approved, will tackle the social loop whole that affects more than two million people in Chile living together with no legal recognition, placing “opposite-sex and samesex couples on the same footing, because in both cases it is possible to develop love, affection and respect,” as

stated by the announcement. If congress accepts the legislation as written, couples will have the opportunity to sign agreements of life partnership before civil registry and receive benefits of inheritances, social welfare and health care. The news strikes mostly considering Chile is a predominantly Catholic country, and its current government a conservative one. Nevertheless, this move from the government echoes the necessities of a new and changing Chilean society, more open and tolerant, more organized and outspoken, one that a few months ago marched and gathered a massive turnout to support equal rights for everyone, in spite of sexual orientation. By presenting this bill, President Piñera will face opposition not from the outside of his government, but

from the inside. Leaders of the two majority parties from the government, Carlos Larrain from the Renovation National and Juan Antonio Colona of the Independent Democratic Union boycotted Piñera’s ceremony that announced the bill and have stated that they will vote against it. Piñera stressed that the new legislation will not change the concept of marriage, which will remain solely between a man and a woman, but its adoption would mark an important step for gay rights in Latin America, where only a handful of countries recognize civil unions. Organizations supporting sexual diversity rights say it’s a step in the right direction towards equality and human dignity; a legal recognition from the state and society of love and freedom of expression that will contribute to the happiness of over two million Chileans.

Photo: ILC

Health care tax in Chile eliminated for retirees Ten days after a bill eliminating the health care tax for retirees was passed by the senate, President Sebastián Piñera signed the bill into law. The president thanked the Senate for almost unanimously approving this initiative. The long awaited bill for many senior citizens came as a campaign promise and was one of the signature goals of this administration. The law, according to the government, will benefit mainly those who receive help from Pilar Solidario, a pension group with the goal of preventing poverty in the older members of society. All those pensioners that receive CLP$255,000 or less each month will benefit from this tax cut. This aims to the 60 percent of Chilean seniors who are most vulnerable in society. For those retirees that receive a pension between $255,000 and $286,000 there will be a health tax deduction of 7 to 5 percent. President Piñera states that this doesn’t mean that their health plans are going to deteriorate, on the contrary, the Chilean state will make that contribution for them. This law comes to fill the wishes of all the senior citizens of this country, many whom receive extremely low pensions, who have been demanding this cut for decades. The government has estimated that this new law will help over 700,000 people in Chile. It will go into effect in November.

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SEPTEMBER 2011 / NEWS

Photo: Courtesy FECH

Two days of National Strike Around 80 unions across Chile, led by the Central Unitaria de Trabajadores (CUT), went on an unprecedented 2 days national strike on August 24 and 25 throughout Chile. Public sector workers were called to protest to demand a new labor code, various social reforms regarding health and pensions and a reconsideration of the economic model. While Chile’s economy grows at an impressive 6 percent, it is one of the countries with more unequal social distribution in the world, according to the OECD. Chile’s main workers union federation, the CUT, said the strike was a success, while the government stressed that most workers ignored the strike call. According to the Central Workers Union, at least 600,000 people participated

in the nation wide strike. The government reported that 99 percent of people who could’ve gone on strike showed up for work on Wednesday while only 90 percent showed up on Thursday, according to Minister of Labor Evelyn Matthei. The protests were relatively peaceful though hooded protesters at times turned violent. The peaceful protesters did help the carabineros, or local police, prevent the hooded protestors from turning the demonstration violent. Violence was more prevalent during the nighttime hours. Banks, schools, churches and grocery stores were damaged and looted by hooded protestors during both days of the strike. Sub-secretary of the Interior, Rodrigo Ubilla, called the night of Wednesday 24 “a

night of violence,” when 71 were detained in the Metropolitan Region and 37 other regions; six carabineros were injured and 285 Transantiago buses were damaged, but the most tragic event of the violent clashes was the death of a 16 year old boy. Five Chilean officers where dismissed after investigation proved that the bullet that killed teenager came from a police weapon. Minister Secretary General of the government, Andrés Chadwick, praised the peaceful protesters, but condemned the incidents of violence that occurred in Santiago and the rest of the country on the two-day strike. He also stated that the national strike was not necessary, mainly because it showed that its main demonstrators were students not workers.

NEWS / SEPTEMBER 2011

By Nick Levine

Student Protests Rock Santiago

hile was recently rocked by the threemonth student conflict and the rising intensity of the protests culminated in the declaration of a two-day national strike by the country’s Central Workers Union. The situation is unusual here, one not seen since before the return to democracy over 20 years ago. Many people have wondered why it is happening at all, given the fact that the macroeconomic situation and employment numbers are the best they have been in over a decade. On the one hand, after two decades of hard work to increase the coverage of education and to improve the salaries of teachers, among other measures, the country is now faced with its biggest challenge in education: to make a significant leap in terms of the quality of the education it provides to those sectors unable to pay for their children’s schooling. There is a general sense that neither the current government nor its predecessors have For all of us who love Chile, live here and try and understand our new had the political will to see the matter in a strategic home, the death of Felipe Camiroaga was a moment to reflect and light and that the protests are merely the symptoms of appreciate that even in 2011, we live in a nation that can pull together a system that cannot wait any longer. like a single family. On the other hand, the latest polls confirm that neither the government nor the opposition can rise to the occasion. The former has reacted to the problem Photo: Courtesy FECH both too late and superficially. Its renowned communications problems have not been of much help either, with ministers and legislators speaking without coordinating the details among themselves. For its part, the opposition, Concertación, continues adrift without either a specific direction or leadership. Polls show scant support for the coalition. Its attempts to support protest actions and the national strike ring hollow and look opportunistic. Today’s protestors do not stick to political banners as in the past, so this approach is not likely to win over supporters. Meanwhile, the student movement is to be congratulated for bringing the issue of education to the top of public priorities after decades of being relegated far behind things like security, employment and health. However, and perhaps this is where experience or the lack thereof comes into play, the students must also be aware of how far to take things and when to take an offer and leave the rest of their demands for a later round in the fight. As students begin to tire, the movement will inevitably lose force. At some point its leaders must decide whether the initial momentum can be sustained. Remember: there are municipal elections next year and Photo: Courtesy Camila Vallejo is the iconic FECH presidential and congressional elections in 2013. If figure and leader behind the there is no solution this year, the cause may be hijacked student movement. Photo: Courtesy FECH

Students get crea tive with expressin g their message.

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Photo: Courtesy FECH

SEPTEMBER 2011 / NEWS

Photo: Presidencia

President meets with student leaders to discuss solutions.

by political forces seeking to gain the upper hand in the vote. Students who lose their year of schooling will begin questioning their leaders. There is no shame in taking an imperfect deal if the time is right. There is a local saying among lawyers: “better a bad deal than a good lawsuit.” The government’s latest offer is far from perfect, but the time is ripe for students to be able to have an influence on improving it before the political scenario changes. Already the country’s students have managed to get concessions never before dreamed of: the government has offered to reduce the interest on student loans from 5.7 percent to 2 percent and increase the universe of potential beneficiaries of student scholarships by 75 percent with coverage for the 60 percent lowest income brackets in the country, overdue debts will be pardoned, it will take control of underperforming schools away from municipalities, a constitutional reform will be passed to oversee educational quality and the prohibition against for-profit higher education will be enforced. This is just the beginning. Critics are clearly right when they say that the proposed solutions are not enough. Now is the time to work together to improve these solutions and pick up pending issues as they come with all sides showing flexibility. This goes equally for the government as well as for the opposition and the student movement. It would also reflect the tradition of consensus that has marked Chilean politics in recent. • ILC

Chilean Political Comic View

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NEWS / SEPTEMBER 2011

Chile Mourns Its Heroes Plane Crash Off Robinson Crusoe Islands Takes the Lives of 21 By Jonathan Franklin

hile continues to mourn the 21 passengers and crew of a small plane that plummeted into the ocean last week, taking the lives of all aboard and leaving a gaping hole in TVN—the state run television station. Felipe Camiroaga, 44, a beloved fixture of Chilean television and most recently the host of “Buenos Dias A Todos” was killed in the crash along with his crew of four colleagues. Camiroaga, known as a comic, actor and host, had a loyal following of millions, many of whom had been fans for over two decades. His sudden death ripped away the nation’s most charismatic personality and led to an outpouring of solidarity. Thousands of Chileans flocked to the offices of TVN in Bellavista where impromptu shrines were built, religious ceremonies were enacted and stunned Chileans gathered to mourn a figure they adored. Also killed in the crash was an entire team from Desafio Levantemos Chile, a non-profit led by Felipe Cubillos, a sailor, explorer and visionary, who had dedicated the better part of two years rebuilding Chile after the devastating February 2010 earthquake. Cubillos and Camiroaga were headed to the island in an effort to promote new schools and new infrastructure after a massive tsunami wiped out most of the coast, killing 16 people and shattering the island’s tourist industry. I have lived in Chile since 1995 and never have I seen such a national mourning. Camiroaga was the closest thing Chile had to a Royal Prince. As a handsome and single man, Camiroaga was more than just a sex symbol, he was Chile’s Prince Felipe, a charming man who took the time to address fans, work for NGOs, support social causes (including the students) and avoid the backstabbing madness that is so endemic in the Chilean television/celebrity world. Cubillos was a rare example of a wealthy businessman who put aside his personal interests and found joy and satisfaction in the most simple of pleasures— building a school, sailing on his beloved boats and coordinating volunteers to rebuild homes along the central Chilean coast, so destroyed by the earthquake. The full cause of the crash may never be known as there were no survivors, no witnesses and no black box. Earlier flights that same day reported dangerous cross winds near the runway and even on a good day, the airstrip at Juan Fernandez Island is so dangerous that pilots call the plateau strip “the Aircraft Carrier” because it is narrow and has sharp drop-offs at both the beginning and the end. On my one and only trip to the island, I felt the dangers firsthand. Flying in a small Cessna from Tobalaba airport, my heart tightened as banks of clouds swallowed up the plane and bounced us like a child’s toy inside a washing machine. The plane dropped into free falls that would make any amusement park operator jealous—hundreds of feet (or so it seemed) into invisible air pockets. Would the wings rip off ? Would we nose dive into the ocean? Never in my 30-

For all of us who love Chile, live here and try and understand our new home, the death of Felipe Camiroaga was a moment to reflect and appreciate that even in 2011, we live in a nation that can pull together like a single family. Photo: Courtesy Desafío Levantemos Chile

Felipe Cubillos and Sebastián Correa in a previous trip to the island.

Photo: Amanda Saviñon - ILC

Felipe Camiroaga of Buenos Dias a Todos adorned the cover of ILC newspaper in an exclusive interview earlier this year.

plus years of flying have I felt so vulnerable and terrified. The flight is approximately three hours from the coast and even if I did not have six daughters to take care of—never again. Camiroaga and Cubillos and the other passengers all knew of the dangers—they had flown repeatedly to the island, bringing hope, experts and attention to the difficult task of rebuilding a remote, nearly inaccessible island. Adding to the tragedy was the presence of two devoted employees of the Chilean Ministry of Culture, also on a mission to help artist islanders. In a small way the plane crash highlights the often overlooked solidarity that so marks Chile. While it is easy to criticize Chileans for being plagued by jealousies, envy and lack of self-confidence, there are many signs that the Chile of today has begun to appreciate the benefits of altruism. When I first began living in Chile in the late 1980s, I used to joke that altruism was not in the Chilean dictionary. Today, I am confident that it has arrived and will be here forever. Where else do you see a policeman helping motorists change a tire? Think that happens in Boston? Yeah, right. Whether it is untied shoelaces, a child who has slipped or a blind man trying to negotiate a busy Santiago street, the ordinary Chilean steps up to help in seconds. At first I found this off-putting. Being a bit staid from Boston, I was unnerved by what seemed like a brash intrusion of privacy. Only later,

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SEPTEMBER 2011 / NEWS Photos: Courtesy FACH

The Chilean Government and Military leads the rescue efforts.

The death of Camiroaga was Chile’s “Princess Di” moment. years later, have I learned to appreciate this sense of community. Before the plane crash I had virtually no understanding of Felipe Camiroaga. I rather religiously avoid TV and, apart from nuggets here and there, had no sense of the genuine love that Chileans felt for this broad-smiling giant. But in the 24 hours after the crash, I was like a Londoner after the death of Princess Diane. I was glued to the screen. Thousands of Chileans via email, twitter, Facebook, expressed their sorrow and gratitude to a single man. When he was alive, it was easy to dismiss Camiroaga as a superficial, albeit extraordinarily talented television host. Only after his death did I come to appreciate the way in which he made life better for so many thousands of Chileans every day. His following was so intense that psychologists are now worried that his disappearance has left such a gaping hole in the Chilean family that it will cause depression in more than a few of his fans. Usually I would read that last sentence and consider it trite and dumb. Depressed because a television host is gone? But for all of us who love Chile, live here and try and understand our new home, the death of Felipe Camiroaga was a moment to reflect and appreciate that even in 2011, we live in a nation that can pull together like a single family. For me, the death of Camiroaga was Chile’s “Princess Di” moment. A national shock and sadness as a gifted and generous public figure was suddenly swept from the stage. Other figures will fill the void, but we can all pay homage to this man and his example by recognizing that even something as simple as confronting the daily grind with an extra dose of generosity and a smile can affect those around us far more than we realize. • ILC

Religious and Military ceremonies in honor of the 21.

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Photo: Cocinarte - Anabella

ECONOMICS / SEPTEMBER 2011

Quantifying Las Fiestas Patrias

Or, at least, trying to...

“Anticuchos” is a popular food served during Las Fiestas Patrias.

By Alexis Psarras

›› What does September 18 mean to you? A difficult question to answer, and

The Traditions One of the most resounding and common answers given by Chileans to the question “What does September 18 mean to you?” has been as a way of spending quality time with family and friends, and indulging in a bit of Chilean culture, whether that be flying a kite, organising an asado (barbeque), watching or participating in some traditional rodeos and cuecas (dances), playing games like emboque (stick in a bottle) or simply heading off down to the nearest fonda (inn) for a good old knees-up. While national pride does occasionally come up as an answer, it has not been a common one. The albeit unscientific study undertaken to gauge this subject found that the overall sentiment was not really of pride in being Chilean or in Chile’s military past, but rather a celebration of a country’s traditions-especially countryside traditions like the food, music, dance, games and horsemanship. Other common sentiments overheard included the aguinaldo, or workers bonus from employers; time off work in general and traffic jams. So in this sense, it’s much like any other public holiday.

an even more difficult one to quantify, but whether you’re Chilean or not it

The Forgotten People While the majority of the population celebrate the traditions of Chile in September, the original, indigenous populations of the land now called Chile (about 4.6 percent of the current population) have a slightly different opinion of the festivities that are worthy of note. During the official bicentenary celebrations last year, some Mapuche orga-

probably means something. What does September 18 mean to the economy? This is somewhat easier to answer, as statistics can help fill in the gaps and provide some kind of overall picture. However, trying to quantify las fiestas patrias is a tricky business, but at I Love Chile we thought we’d give it a go. nizations were represented alongside the Catholic Church and the Armed Forces. But while some chose to join in with, for example, the hoisting of the 60-meter flag outside La Moneda, many chose not to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the birth of the Chilean state. Much like the marking of Columbus Day every October 12, September 18 marks a point in history, which while perhaps taken for granted in the Western world, has a very different significance for the Mapuche and other indigenous groups, in Chile and beyond. Many such groups consider las fiestas patrias an event that marks the beginning of the loss of land, self-determination and general subjugation to the Chilean state. As many Mapuche organizations point out, the Pueblo Mapuche or Mapuche Nation has its own flag, its own heroes and its own date of independence on January 6 (commemorating the 1641 signing of the Treaty of Quillin with Spain, which agreed the

border between the two nations at the river Bío Bío). Not all Mapuche individuals feel this way, of course, and many do feel Chilean and join in with the celebrations. Mapuches frequently celebrate alongside the huincas, the Mapudungun name for the non-Mapuche, on September 18 as a way of building bridges between the two cultures and keeping alive ancient arts of dance and music. In Temuco back in September 2005, Emilio Lonkon told Teletrece News, “Of course we [the Mapuches of local Metrenco community] feel Chilean and we want to join in [with the festivities].” “It’s beautiful how the Mapuche and huinca cultures unite. We are all patriots of the same nation,” said Gerardo Huenul, the Machi (spiritual healer) of another local community, the Trumpluo Chico, to a group of reporters. The State Las fiestas patrias inevitably raise

questions about the role of the state as well as of identity, ethnicity and what it means to be Chilean. While the country’s traditions are celebrated more than almost anything else on September 18, these identities and the role of the state are celebrated by different members of society in different ways. A 2009 UN report entitled “Interpreting Chilean Reality through National Statistics” argued that one of the main purposes of the newly created national census in the 1830s was to convince every person of their own desire to become Chilean with no distinction of race or ethnicity. Las fiestas patrias were an inevitable part of this. Throughout the 20-century census questions were phrased around nationality instead of ethnicity in order to strengthen the newly born nation-state and “as a way to homogenize the population.” Not until 1992 were three different categories included for people who identified themselves as indigenous, then ex-

The albeit unscientific study undertaken to gauge this subject found that the overall sentiment was not really of pride in being Chilean or in Chile’s military past, but rather a celebration of a country’s traditions

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SEPTEMBER 2011 / ECONOMICS Photo: Archive ILC

Colorful typical toys are sell on the streets.

“It’s beautiful how the Mapuche and huinca cultures unite. We are all patriots of the same nation,” said Gerardo Huenul. tended to eight categories in 2002. Whether indigenous, European, mestizo or immigrant, celebrations of Independence Day in Chile is nothing unique. Where perhaps it does differ to a certain degree is that this sentiment is enshrined in law. On September 18 and 19, as well as May 21, which commemorates the naval Battle of Iquique in 1879, every public building in the country risks being fined up to $40,000 pesos if it does not fly the national flag in a prominent place. During the bicentenary celebrations of last year, the government extended this law beyond the traditional period to include the flying of the flag on all public buildings during the entire month of September. So whether you feel the desire to fly the flag or not, in some cases there is literally no choice. The Economics September 18 clearly means different things to different people. Whether it’s national pride, tradition, happiness, indifference or even discontent, all remain difficult to accurately convey. Luckily there is one area that is slightly easier to get a tangible grasp on, and that’s its economic impact. Due to the large consumption of meat and wine during las fiestas patrias, it would be logical to conclude that sales in carne y vino rise accordingly during the month of September; and you’d be right to think so. Statistics from the National Chamber of Commerce (CNC) show that every year since 1999, September has been the second biggest selling month of the year for meat, after December. The only anomaly is the September of 2008 when meat sales were outdone not only in December but also in March, May, August and October. Wine is nearly as omnipresent as meat in September. Figures from the National Institute of Statistics show an above average annual sale of drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic alike) every September since 2002. Again, figures are outstripped only by those of December. However, the supermarket sector as a whole does not benefit significantly from las fiestas patrias, according to the

restaurant sales continually dip in September as compared to July and August, and then pick up considerably again in October and November, peaking in December. In fact, overall nationwide sales statistics from the National Institute of Statistics show that since 2002, only the Septembers of 2005, 2009 and 2010 saw an above average figure of overall sales, across all sectors. Likewise, overall manufacturing across the country in September has been below the average every year from 2002 to 2010. This leads to the conclusion that September and its fiestas patrias are less of a boon and more of a hindrance to the Chilean economy. Statistically speaking, the months of March and August are usually better in terms of overall sales, and those of October, November and December are the best of all. So while official figures and statistics prove that the sale of meat and drinks, and to a lesser extent tobacco, rises in September, undoubtedly as a consequence of las fiestas patrias, general merriment as measured by spending patterns is not as prevalent as we may think. Compared to the other big holiday of the year, Christmas, economically speaking las fiestas patrias don’t come anywhere close. However, happiness and enjoyment cannot be truly gauged by official statistics, and September provides most Chileans and people living in Chile the opportunity to spend time with their family and friends, enjoy some traditional food and music and have a day or two off work. Difficult to accurately quantify, yes, but not too bad at all. • ILC

latest official statistics. Figures from the CNC for September 2009 show that supermarkets across Chile witnessed a fall in overall sales of 5 percent from August to September. On the other hand, December saw a rise in equivalent sales of 30 percent. While supermarkets usually profit from las fiestas patrias (2009 was somewhat out of the ordinary), department stores and shops selling clothes, furniture and electrical goods see a fall in sales during the month of September. CNC statistics for the metropolis region dating back to 1990 show that September was the 4 or 5 worst months for sales for these stores between 1990 and 1997, and from 1998 to 2009 it was the 3 worst performing month every single year. While people spend their money on meat and drink during September, figures from the restaurant industry show that they do so in order to enjoy the results from the comfort of their own homes. More statistics from the CNC show that

Photo: Presidencia

Fiestas Patrias is a celebration of a Chile’s traditions.

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Photo: Courtesy Programa Origenes

INDIGENOUS PEOPLE / SEPTEMBER 2011

Chile Supreme Court Rules in Favor of Indigenous Rights

By Laura Seelau & Ryan Seelau

Photo: Courtesy Programa Origenes

ndigenous consultation occupies a dominant place in debates about indigenous rights in Chile. This has been especially true since March, when the current government initiated a national consultation process with indigenous peoples. Consultation is a major issue today—at times almost eclipsing long-standing debates over land rights—because of International Labor Organization Convention No. 169 (ILO 169) and its recognition of the right of indigenous peoples to be consulted before the state adopts measures which might affect them. Last month, Chile’s Supreme Court issued an important decision related to indigenous consultation in a case that involved the Atacameño Community of Toconao and the Antofagasta Regional Environmental Commission (COREMA-Antofagasta). To understand the case’s significance, it is helpful to understand a little bit about ILO Convention 169. ILO 169 is an international treaty dealing specifically with the rights of indigenous peoples that was drafted in 1989. In 2008, the convention became an official part of Chilean law and because it is an international human rights treaty, it actually has a higher legal status than most other Chilean laws. In other words, the text of ILO 169 will trump other laws that conflict with it. ILO 169 touches on many issues, but one of its major achievements is recognizing rights that create opportunities for indigenous peoples to be involved in all decisions that affect their lives. Together, these rights are part of a bigger goal that ILO 169 attempts to achieve: reversing hundreds of years of governments subjecting indigenous peoples to policies created by outsiders with the goal of assimilation and that often were not to their benefit. Thus, when Chile ratified Convention 169 in 2008, it took a huge step towards improving the situation of indigenous rights within its borders. But implementing indigenous rights, particularly the right to consultation, has been a struggle. Important questions about what consultation means, including what government actions will trigger it—that is, when does a government decision or action “affect indigenous peoples”—have been

Mamiña y Ollagüe are two communities that keep the QUECHA culture in the north of Chile alive. Photo: Courtesy Programa Origenes

Aymara’s women in the north of Chile.

Together, these rights are part of a bigger goal that ILO 169 attempts to achieve: reversing hundreds of years of governments subjecting indigenous peoples to policies created by outsiders with the goal of assimilation and that often were not to their benefit.

More that 500,000 mapuche chileans preserve their original tongue: Mapudungu.

difficult to answer. And that is why the recent Supreme Court decision was an important one. The case was one in which the Atacameño Community of Toconao, a community of approximately 800 people near San Pedro de Atacama, challenged COREMA’s approval of an Actualización Plan Regulador (Updated Regulatory Plan) for the San Pedro de Atacama borough because the affected Indigenous peoples had not been consulted. Planes Reguladores are essentially land-use and planning documents that local governments throughout Chile develop periodically to define which geographic areas are open to which types of economic development activities and other uses. In this case, the geographic area in question coincides with the ancestral homeland of the Atacameño people, and that means that under ILO 169 the right to consultation is particularly strong. While the Supreme Court’s approach to consultation cases has not been particularly favorable for indigenous peoples in the past, in this case it was. In a unanimous decision by the third chamber of the Supreme Court, the Atacameño Community of Toconao prevailed. Citing both Chilean and international law related to indigenous rights, the Supreme Court accepted the community’s arguments and ordered consultation with indigenous communities to take place. The court stated that ILO 169 did apply to the decision to approve the new Plan. As such, the court rejected the plan (since it was passed illegally) and ordered COREMAAntofagasta to consult with all the indigenous communities affected before approving any new documents. The Supreme Court’s decision could have strong implications for indigenous communities throughout Chile. Planning documents, like the one in this case, are routinely developed and used in local governments of every region. And so, this case opens the door for the approximately one million indigenous people within the country to participate more in the planning decisions that will affect their lives and cultures. Thus, while it remains to be seen what the exact results of the decision will be or the impact it will have in other regions, for the moment, it appears that Chile’s court has taken a major step towards making Indigenous rights a reality. • ILC

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SEPTEMBER 2011 / Feature

Photo: Courtesy Centro Cultural y Deportivo Peñalolén

La Cueca A Timeless Chilean Tradition

La Cueca tells the timeless story of a man in pursuit of a woman.

By Katie Bolin

he Independence Day celebration of September 18 means the popular resurgence of the traditional Chilean song and dance called la cueca. Emerging in Chile around 1824, la cueca is the only dance to have endured the many tumultuous years of colonization to the present. As to where the dance came from and its puzzling origins, one can only guess at the influences. It’s believed to have evolved from Spanish, Arab and African cultures. Seen as an important part of the national history and culture of Chile, la cueca was instated into law as the official national dance of Chile on September 18, 1979. La cueca tells the timeless story of a man in pursuit of a woman. Much more than that, la cueca is viewed as a glimpse into the everyday life of Chilean people. Cueca music and dance have strong footholds across all facets of Chilean society, from low cuecas generally reserved for ordinary citizens to high cuecas among the upper class. What’s more surprising is that much of the Chilean youth spanning all sorts of sub-cultures know how to dance la cueca, indicating that the cueca tradition is not just an obligatory national symbol, but that it is continually passed on through the generations. The lyrics of cueca music don’t follow one general theme of pursuit, as the story of the dance would lead one to believe. Instead, the subject matter is carved out of experiences taken from daily life, ranging from ceremonious celebrations and mourning to tales of revolution and relationships:

Para qué me dijiste Why did you tell me que me querías that you loved me que sólo con la muerte when only with death me olvidarías. you would forget me Nicomedes Guzmán. La sangre y la esperanza (1934) These tales are normally sung, spoken, yelled or a mixture of them all over a guitar, accordion, guitarrón and percussion while people dance la cueca. The dance is described as a rooster and hen type of dance, meaning that the man plays the role of the courting rooster and the woman takes on the role of the shy hen. The dance begins as the man, dressed in a poncho, boots and hat, first approaches the woman, dressed in a traditional flowered dress and apron. He offers her his arm as a proposal to join him on the dance floor. When she accepts, they briefly promenade around the room until they come to face each other. With traditional white handkerchiefs symbolizing feathers in hand, the dance commences. The man and woman begin to dance together yet separately. The fact that they never touch throughout the dance is overpowered by the movements of their bodies and strong connection through coy glances and facial expressions. The first steps of the dance are hesitant and short. Both move their handkerchiefs with a

certain flow and ease as they continuously dance in half moons. The man begins his pursuit of the woman, while the woman begins her evasion of the man. Stepping in half circles around each other, the man closes in and begins to wrap his handkerchief around the woman, all the while continually refraining from touching her. He pulls her closer to his side as she begins to show a little interest. The woman approaches the man teasingly as she ever so slightly lifts the left side of her skirt and waves the white handkerchief in her right hand. She once again evades the man by fleeing, and the dance be-

gins again: man pursues woman, woman evades man. However, each time they begin the dance again, the steps involved become more and more complex. The dance finally ends with the man’s arm around the woman and his knee on the ground. As it is such an integral part of Chilean culture and tradition, be sure to catch a glimpse of la cueca over the September 18 Independence Day celebrations. No matter where you find yourself over the national holiday, you will not be far from witnessing the nearly two-century-old music and dance tradition. • ILC

News and information about Chile in ‘Chile Sauce’, Monday to Thursday from 10am on www.ilovechile.cl

PEPE’S CHILE / SEPTEMBER 2011

Patriotic Parties By Pepe Rawlinson

Photo: Cocinarte - Anabella

he fiestas patrias (literally “patriotic parties”) are a time for all Chileans to gather together and celebrate their country, culture and independence. September 18 is the focal point for celebrating everything that is Chilean. In fact, the entire week around this date turns into one big party throughout the entire country. Chileans celebrate their independence on the 18 of September, the date in 1810 when they started down their road to independence from Spain. Although they would have to fight for eight more years to earn their total freedom, Chile celebrates that day in September with great fanfare. (Chile officially proclaimed independence from Spain on February 12, 1818.) The 18, or el dieciocho, as it is commonly called, is celebrated with a week full of fiestas patrias. These celebrations include parades, dances, drinking, eating traditional foods, enjoying music and flying flags. Chilean flags hang from houses, stores, across streets and in every public place. You’ll know the 18 is approaching because you’ll start to see

A classic: “Pebre” and “Empanadas”

more and more flags everywhere. Much of the fiestas patrias celebrations occur in ramadas, temporary, open buildings with thatched roofs traditionally made from tree branches. Ramadas feature a dance floor, music and tables. Fondas, or refreshment stands, offer a wide variety of Chilean foods including empanadas, anticuchos (shish kabobs), chicha (an alcoholic drink) and more. The ramadas and fondas are decorated with Chilean flags everywhere: table covers, streamers, banners, etc. These areas typically fill up with people during the evenings of the week of September 18 and are an annual tradition. Look for fondas in your area. They are often found in open, outdoor areas and take on the look and feel of a fairgrounds or carnival. The fiestas patrias also offer frequent dance competitions. The national dance, the cueca, is the most popular. Even if there isn’t a competition, Chileans love

to dance and you’ll hear traditional cueca music and see people dancing at many fiestas patrias events. September is also a great month to catch a traditional Chilean rodeo. These rodeos, held in their medialuna or halfmoon arenas, are common across the country and showcase the traditional Chilean huaso (cowboy). A typical event at the rodeo has a pair of mounted men trying to pin a cow or calf against the wall of the arena with great precision. September 19 is also a national holiday. This Armed Forces Day, and includes military and naval parades and events celebrating Chile’s military victories. If you like parades, this day is for you. A typical parade will include students marching, bands, Chilean huasos on horseback, carabineros (police) and military units. These large military parades are an impressive look at Chile’s armed forces. One of the great Chilean traditions during the fiestas patrias and summer months is the Chilean barbecue, called an asado. The asado is more than just cooking outside; it is a social event and a key part of Chilean culture. Part of the social experience is having the grill master tend to the grill while drinking and talking with friends and family. You won’t find gas grills at a typical asado. The preferred method of grilling is over coals or a wood fire. So what would you eat at a Chilean barbeque? You’ll enjoy: skewers—the typical anticucho, or shish kabobs, with beef pieces intermixed with sausage, vegetables or other meats cooked on a skewer; chorizo (spicy pork sausage); choripan (chorizo inside marraqueta bread); chicken and steaks. These main meat dishes are often accompanied by Chilean salad (with tomato, onion and cilantro) and bread. During the fiestas patrias, you’ll almost always experience the trifecta of Chilean food: the anticucho, an empanada de pino (beef ), and chicha. The atmosphere is contagious. Even if you are a foreigner in Chile, you can’t help but be swept up in the Chilean spirit. Viva Chile! • ILC

Joe “Pepe” Rawlinson is the author of “The Gringo’s Culture Guide to Chile” and shares regular insights into Chilean culture and travel on his blog: pepeschile.com

Follow feature column ‘My Two Cents’, opinions about Chile every week on www.ilovechile.cl

SEPTEMBER 2011 / LITTLE THINKERS

Welcome to Our Big Little Thinkers Pages

The World’s Most Powerful Bit of Equipment – Your Brain: Part Two

ast month I wrote about how we don’t have just one brain, we have three—the reptilian brain that evolved first, our mammal brain that came along next (if you can count millions of years as “coming along”) and finally our neo-cortex, the thinking cap that separates humans from dolphins, cats and estate agents. What I want to share with you this month is not how the brain evolves, but how your brain evolves. How we move from what we are born with to what we end up with and how the power of your brain is very much down to what you do with it. But let’s start by thinking about telephones. In the early days of phones, very few people had them, which meant very few people were connected to very few people. If two people had a phone there were only two possible phone calls that could be made: a to b and b to a. If three people had a phone they could call two people each,

but the number of potential phone call has risen to six: a to b, b to a, a to c, c to a, b to c, c to b. This is called an exponential increase. So, imagine now with millions of people connected to telephone lines what the number of potential phone calls is. It’s a very big number indeed. So it is with our brain cells, the building blocks that make up our brain. Each one, like a telephone, is capable of receiving and sending messages. It has one route in for receiving, but hundreds of thousands of routes out; connections to other brain cells in order to send little pulses of electricity out and around our brain; pulses of electricity that help us catch a ball, write an essay or think about French fries. With the vast number of brain cells we have— thousands of millions—the exponential effect means that, according to one estimate, there are more connections in a single human brain than there are atoms in the visible universe. Or, as one

writer put it, we all have “hundreds of trillions of thinkable thoughts.” Although some people have claimed we use only ten percent of this capacity for thinking, this isn’t actually true (and no one quite knows where the neuro-myth came from). It is also untrue that our talents are infinite. There is a limit to what we are capable of doing but no-one knows where it is. We use a lot of our brain a lot of the time. The key here, though, is the extent to which we tap into our brain’s capacity to grow connections, what’s called plasticity. We make new connections by doing, feeling or thinking new thoughts. Every time we create new connections, like adding a new telephone to the grid, we increase exponentially our ability to do, feel and think even more. We literally grow our brains. So, my advice for a brain work-out to grow your brain is to once a week watch a TV documentary you wouldn’t normally watch (doesn’t matter if you don’t understand it all), once a week flick through a non-fiction book to learn some things you didn’t know before (doesn’t matter if you don’t understand it all), once a week taste something you’ve never tasted before, hear something you’ve never heard before, see something and smell something you’ve never seen or smelled before. Stretch that brain in new ways and it will never go back to its former size (unless you stop learning in which case you are faced with what is called neural pruning, but that’s for another day…) So, enjoy this month’s Little Thinkers and think new thoughts, create new connections and work out that brain ‘til it hurts! Best wishes Thinkers Ian

Guide to Parents and Teachers: Teaching children what to think is not enough these days. Knowledge has been democratized and everyone has access to it all of the time if they really want it. The next great step is not just teaching children what to think but how to think. This is what these Little Thinkers pages are all about, allowing you the opportunity to work with your children not to find out what they know but what they think. And the two are very different things.

Ian Gilbert and Independent Thinking

The man behind Little Thinkers and Independent Thinking is Ian Gilbert, an educational innovator, entrepreneur and award-winning author who has worked for two decades helping schools bring the best out of young people through improved thinking, learning, motivation, creativity. He has recently moved to Chile to introduce his work across South America. For more information please visit www.independentthinking.com or e-mail us on learn@independenentthinking.co.uk

Pull-Out Follow the life of countryside ‘Life in the Sexta’ on www.ilovechile.cl

LITTLE THINKERS / SEPTEMBER 2011

Very Little Thinkers (8 years and under) The Very odd one out Which one is the odd one out (in your opinion)? a. b. c.

A seal A large wooly hat A bee

Thunks ™

The answer is simple – it’s either yes or no… a. What color would a Zebra be if you took its stripes off? b. Does lined paper weigh more than blank paper? c. Is a computer clever?

Connexions

Highly creative people see the way everything is linked. See if you can spot the links between the following (and remember, there are no right answers): a. a. b.

An iPod A rainbow A hot air balloon

Which would win?

Which means what?

This time there are right answers as you match the word with its meaning: a. b. c.

1. 2. 3.

Button Fishy Wonderful

Little disk for doing up clothes Amazing Suspicious

Oodles of Doodles

Turn these five triangles into five different types of birds:

Superhero or supervillain?

In a fight, which of the following pairs would come out on top and why?

If you mixed the following together would they be a superhero or supervillain and what would their special powers be?

What happens next?

a. b. c.

b. c. d.

An bull and a bulldozer A seagull and a sea lion A cueca dancer and a ballerina

Christopher Columbus A bus driver A school principal

Finish this short story with what you think would happen next: Once upon a time there lived a very happy man who lived in a very happy house and who had a very happy…

Medium-Sized Little Thinkers (8-12 years)

Have a go at all of the tasks in the Very Little Thinkers column but also here are some especially for you:

Mind the Gap

One-Minute Story

Here is a paragraph with some words missing for you to fill in. There are no right answers, but the sentence has to make sense:

Now using these same items from the list make up a story that incl all.

Thunks ™

Instead of us asking you a question, how about I give you some ans let you tell me what the questions would be:

You know, the funny thing about__________ is the way the _____________ gets in the way of the ___________ every time you _______________. It really hurts! Here are some Thunks just for you. The answer is yes or no, but getting to the answer isn’t as straightforward: a. b. c.

If I lose my memory am I the same person? If I acquire your memory who am I then? If we borrow every single book from a library is it still a library?

Twisted Wikis

Here are three biographies from Wikipedia that we’ve muddled up. You have to work out which three celebrities we are talking about here and also which “fact” we have simply made up:

Born in Chillán in 1778, this man was sent to Lima at the age of 15 and then later finished his studies in London (where there is a bust commemorating the fact beside the Thames). According to Isabella Allende s book about this person s exploits in helping to establish Chile, empanadas were brought from Spain by this person and there was a famous incident where a number of prisoners heads were cut off and thrown at the advancing enemies who fled in terror. However, later in life he was captured by the English and finally died, in suspicious circumstances on the island of Saint Helena in the Atlantic Ocean.

What comes next?

What is the missing fourth item in this random list and why? a. b. c. d.

A steering wheel A rat A champagne glass ?

If this is the answer what’s the question?

Q: ? A: On top of the mountain

Q: ? A: Three, but not in the summer Q: ? A: 38

Text Speak What could the following entirely made-up-on-the-spot acronyms a. b. c.

RTYU HHFH3 TMH

Creative commons What do the following random objects have in common? a. b. c.

A watch A shoe The richest man in the world

8-Way Thinking

8-Way Thinking gets you to look at the world through eight differen words, sights, sounds, people, feelings, actions, numbers and natur 8-Way Think where you come up with a question about the topic fo of the eight angles on the following topics: a. b. c.

Coca Cola Horses September 18

Find out about environmental issues & wildlife in Chile: every Tuesday by Carolina Lesseigneur on www.ilovechile.cl

SEPTEMBER 2011 / LITTLE THINKERS

Big Little Thinkers (12 -100 years) You can do all the exercises I set for the Very Little Thinkers and for the Medium-Sized Little Thinkers, and here are some just to stretch your older brains:

Thunks™ Yes or no, what do you think? Might even be yes and no…! a. a. a.

Is it ever okay to cheat? If I wrote a piece of music down but never played it, is it music? If I met you a year ago in a building that has now been knocked down, could we ever meet in the same spot again?

Order, order! Put the following in order of importance—no rights or wrongs remember: a. b. c. d. e. f.

Tables Spiders Wars Sweet corn Classrooms Lighthouses

Twisted Historical Wikis I’ve muddled up the online histories of three countries. Try and untangle them and identify the one “fact” that I’ve just made up:

The motto for this South American country is “Unity is strength,” and there are an estimated 37 different languages spoken within its borders. It was discovered by Marco Polo, who was amazed at the country’s enormous power, great wealth, complex social structure and the fact that cats were thought of as gods. In fact, this country is home to one of the world’s most famous statues, which has the body of a lion and the face of a fish.

ludes them

swers and

Which means what?

This time there are right answers as you match these more complicated words with their meanings:

Quick Thinking Sometimes you have to think both creatively and quickly. See how quickly you can do the following (and then try and beat your friends and family): 1. 2.

stand for?

nt angles— re. Do an or each one

3. 4. 5.

Name four things with more than four legs. Identity what they all have in common (apart from having more than four legs). Put them in order of importance. Come up with four jobs that each thing with more than four legs could do. Identify what film roles each of the things with more than four legs could take.

Remember, you can do the same exercise again by simply changing the item in step one…

a. b. c.

1. 2. 3.

Stodgy Podgy Chubby

Rather fat Rather fat Rather fatty

Which almost means what? Match up the nearest synonym (that is to say a word that effectively means the same as another word) for the following list. Again, watch out for the trick. a. b. c.

1. 2. 3.

Smashing Terrible Knock out Great Great Awful

You can all give your brains a rest now and go back to Facebook! E-mail me at ian@independentthinking.co.uk if you have any questions or want to share your answers with me. I may print my favorite answers in next month’s Little Thinkers pages.

For more Thunks check out my “Little Book of Thunks” or go to www.thunks.co.uk where you can add your own.

Follow ‘Pepe’s Chile’, insightful advise to life in Chile, every Monday at www.ilovechile.cl

LITTLE THINKERS / SEPTEMBER 2011

Saucepans, Google and Teachers: A Question of Quality in Education By Ian Gilbert

t 10 p.m. one night we were disturbed by the sound of a girl walking past our apartment loudly banging a spoon on a saucepan. Except that she wasn’t simply banging a spoon on a saucepan. She was demanding a free, better education system using a style of demonstration, the cacerolazo, that hasn’t been seen on the streets of Santiago since the vote to oust Pinochet and restore democracy. When it comes to free education, I will leave the politicians and the economists to sort that one out. However, when it comes to the quality of education, I can offer some pointers. And money has very little to do with it. A recent BBC online article mentioned private schools that are alleged to deliver the ”best schooling in Latin America”. While a few do, and some may, there are those that don’t. They take the parents’ money—and quite a bit of it, even by Latin American standards—and then offer a meager fare of chalk and talk lessons and a complete absence of accountability when faced with the accusation: “But my children aren’t learning anything.” The teacher’s job has changed since it first surfaced centuries ago. These days the teacher is no longer the sole receptacle of all wisdom. Knowledge is out there. It is everywhere. It is cheap. It is ubiquitous. It has, in short, been democratized. A child with an iPhone can be riding the Santiago Metro and still have access to the sum of all human knowledge as well as keep track of Justin Bieber on Twitter. However, society needs to take one more leap for the democratization of knowledge to become the liberating revolution that it has the potential to be. Google doesn’t offer you knowledge, it simply presents you with information—some, none or all of which may be true. It is only when you start to assimilate this information for yourself that it starts to become knowledge. And this is where teachers, good teachers, come in. A doctor’s job isn’t to give you medicine, but to help you get better. In the same way, the function of a teacher, and that for which they should be accountable regardless of the type of school they are in, is not to teach children, but to help them learn.

When it comes to free education, I will leave the politicians and the economists to sort that one out. However, when it comes to the quality of education, I can offer some pointers. And money has very little to do with it. It was this lack of professional accountability on behalf of both of the teachers and the principal that was the reason I just took my two girls, aged 12 and 16, out of what the BBC would have us believe was a ”good” school in Santiago, not just because they weren’t learning anything, but because they were starting to actively dislike learning. We had approached their school on a number of occasions to ask for support for them but at every turn we were met by the same response: “You need to get them a tutor.” What we realized was that the money we were paying wasn’t for our children to learn anything,

but for the teachers to go through the motions of teaching, the same motions they went through— chalk and talk, writing words for the students to copy, slideshows and handouts, tests, grades and more tests—every year without question. If our girls weren’t learning as a result of their teaching, was my girls’ fault, and I, as a caring father, should pay out even more to put the problem right. They were even happy enough to give me the name of a suitable tutor (one of whom was the daughter of the math teacher as I later discovered). When we started asking around, it seems that all of the students at the so-called ”good” private schools have personal tutors. What’s more, as the dreaded PSU entrance exam approaches, they all seem to go to one of the many ”preuniversitario” schools that will drill students late into the night in math, science and language necessary to do well on this low-order thinking, multiple choice exam. According to UNESCO, who takes an active role in Latin America when it comes to identifying what makes education systems better, quality of education revolves around five main focuses: the learners, where they learn, how and what they learn and ensuring that they do learn what they need to learn and, if they are not learning, that the school does something about it. The fact that teachers aren’t mentioned doesn’t mean that they are not important, far from it. It means their job, the job for which they should be held accountable, is to get the other elements right. The democratization of knowledge means that learners—and their parents—have a choice. Rather than continue paying a school to do damage to a child’s love of learning, they can just turn their back on the school and walk away. I put my girls to work using online tools like Khan Academy (www.khanacademy.org) where over 2400 YouTube video clips help them learn a range of subjects in their own time. And for free. They learned more in one day this way than they had all term at that school. Why do I need a teacher when I’ve got Google? If the quality of that professional is unsatisfactory then I don’t need that teacher at all. But if that teacher is a good one, that is a very different thing altogether.

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SEPTEMBER 2011 / THE Entrepreneur Hunter

Colegio Colonial de Pirque

The School that Love Built

›› Amidst the current student protests, at least one school is trying to show Chile’s education system in a more positive light. That school is Colegio Colonial de Pirque. Photos: Courtesy CCP

By Shonika Proctor

olegio Colonial de Pirque was founded by a group of parents who wanted their kids to have access to a better quality of education, which at that time only existed in Santiago, more than a one-hour commute each way. They formed a cooperative and each of the parents became stakeholders in the first private school in Pirque. They pioneered a new model of education –that from both a teaching and learning perspective broke away from the rigid structures of many Chilean schools at that time. While the school opened with only 45 students, today, nearly 20 years later, over 250 students ages 2 to 18 are now enrolled. Mónica Vásquez, the Childhood Education Coordinator and one of the original founding members, has proudly watched generations pass through the school. Now her own grandchild is one of the students. Edmundo Sovino, a socially inspired entrepreneur from Puebla, Chile, helped to found the school and is the current owner. Knowing him as an accomplished businessman, the founding parents sold him their shares throughout the years, as the school failed to become a profitable entity. But for Sovino, the school was never about making money, but rather ensuring that all children are given a loving environment in which to excel. Sovino often takes a hands-on approach to running the school and can often be found on the school grounds working on projects alongside students and staff. A large part of Colonial’s success is due to its advanced programs and modern facilities. Recently, the school was recognized as one of the top five schools in the nation for its technology program. Its sports training facilities are some of the best in the area. The skating rink is home to the hockey team during the week, and mothers and daughters participate in artistic skating on Saturdays. Colonial also has a volleyball court, basketball court and soccer field, complete with coaches with professional sports backgrounds. Their soccer coach, Raúl Gomez, for example, was a former Cobreloa player. But the school’s pride and joy is its green environment. Sovino’s daughter Mariela, who also teaches science at Colonial, coordinates a lot of the programming along with Katherinne Ramírez, who has been teaching at Colonial for 14 years. The school has an orchard, vegetable garden, greenhouse and recycling areas. Trash is discarded in two-liter plastic bottles and once the bottles are filled they are used to build eco bricks for their garden. Vegetable scraps and eggshells are turned into compost. Ramírez said that the kids at Colonial love the hands-on, projects. The garden shows the legacy and involvement of the children in many different areas – art, technology, kinesthetic, science and entrepreneurialship. Students have built vegetable troughs and a hand-painted scarecrow. An automatic watering system, designed and built by the school’s robotics team, ensures the plants are watered on schedule. Recently, they created a partnership with CONAF, the Forestry Department of Chile, which will allow experts to offer talks and workshops for students and the community in order to build and support sustainable green environments. Currently, the school is working to become more internationalized. In 2010, 56 percent of the students in Colonial tested at an advanced level of English among their international peers. They recently completed a 15day international exchange program and hosted Colegio Barretos from Brazil. In June 2011, they implemented

The robotics team building the future.

The hockey team learning from discipline and team work.

English exposure classes for teachers and directors to practice English and better foster their students’ growth in becoming globally competent and adaptive leaders in the 21st century. In August 2011, they were the first school in Chile to be selected for the Global Partners Junior program based out of the New York City Government. Global Partners Junior is an award-winning student exchange program that fosters global awareness and develops practical technology skills for youth ages 9-12. Students communicate online about topics relevant to all cultures using an original curriculum, media projects, video greetings and research about their communities. Each school year the program selects 25 foreign cities from thousands of applications around the world. While Colegio Colonial de Pirque may be collaborating with the world, their roots are in Pirque, Chile, firmly planted and welcoming everyone who wants to help tend and grow their garden. www.ccp.cl • ILC

Kids working hands on in the Colonial garden.

Edmundo Sovino working in the garden.

Building their English level everyday.

Join Steve to find out what is ‘hot’ in Chile right now, every Wednesday 6pm on www.ilovechile.cl/radio

Interview / SEPTEMBER 2011

Condorito: Symbol of the Chilean Spirit By Harper Bridgers

“P

op, I’ve come to complain about the bad life I lead because of you,” Condorito said to his maker in a 1963 conversation between the author and his faithful aves protagonist. With wide eyes and an accusatory finger, the Andean condor confronts Pepo like a disgruntled employee would do after reaching his limit. Although Condorito reserves much fewer workers’ rights as a cartoon character, he nonetheless attempts to demand some changes from “the Man.” Brandishing a cigarette in one hand and his pen in the other, Pepo, pseudonym for author and illustrator René Ríos Boettiger, quickly begins squashing the revolt. “What?! You can’t complain. The life I give you is not bad. It’s your destiny. (It is I who commands the ship...)” For over 24 years, Pepo guided Condorito’s existence through all his faults, follies and ultimately his Chilean entity. Although his adventures began as the embodiment of this long, thin country’s society, oft reflecting its rural roots in the face of mid-20-century urbanization, the internationalized cartoon strip has grown to capture a continent, leaving a large, sandal-shaped footprint in the Chile’s fertile valley. Now its reach is global, although it began hyper-local. Condorito’s world mirrored the real world nestled between the Andes and the Pacific. That was Pepo’s initial plan, after all, to portray Chile in a light that more accurately personified a country that he felt was perverted by fellow illustrator Walt Disney in the 1943 movie “Saludos Amigos.” Pepo was left dissatisfied with “Pedrito,” the little, incompetent Chilean airplane, who almost ruined his first mission to fetch mail from Mendoza, Argentina. This misrepresentation inspired him to create a rival cartoon, one that Chile could be proud of. Straight off Chile’s national coat of arms, the condor was Pepo’s answer to Disney, and over the past 60 years it has arguably become the most famous cartoon to ever come from Latin American ink—a high climb for someone who made his debut on a street curb nearly dying of hunger. No background was ever given as to explain his dire predicament. Blame could be logically placed given the evidence at the scene, “by Pepo.” Each edition still carries his signature, paying homage to its founding father, yet as far as Condorito’s real parents go, little to nothing is known. “You’ve never told me who my mother is,” Condorito said to Pepo during their one-on-one. “I have the impression that she might not exist.” Even Condorito’s consciousness doesn’t date back to pre-1949, as if he suddenly found himself on that curb, penniless and smoking a cigarette—a typical scenario during the early days. In an attempt to rob a passer-by at knifepoint in order to feed himself, he, in turn, gets robbed of everything he has—his clothes—at gunpoint. After nearly freezing in the cold, Condorito only had a pot of hot water to console his misery. “Your mother? She is right here with us,” Pepo said to Condorito. “It’s this little tool (showing his pen).” Pepo’s pen piloted his adventures along with his physical appearance. In his early days, he takes on a more birdlike look with a long beak, short legs and big feet. With the passing of the years, he grew taller, his beak shortened and all of his features appeared rounder, in what seemed to be an attempt to make him more human. The audience identified more intimately with his human likeness over his condor likeness, and with his traditional campesino garb—a Chilean cowboy hat, which also resembles a condor’s comb, a red shirt, patched pants and sandals—Pepo drew up the blueprint with which Latin Americans identify today.

“I think Condorito belongs to the unconscious part of Latin Americans,” said Ricardo Amunátegui, the Director of Digital Animation at La Universidad de Artes, Ciencias y Comunicación. “He’s like Homer Simpson in the U.S. market, but he’s 60 years old, he’s been around, he’s always been a good friend and he’s always been very funny and spontaneous.” Pepo always applied a simple, light humor to the comic strip. Never dark, never crass, he kept it clean and modest while relying on double entendres to spark laughs, typical in Chilean comedy. At the end of many of the comics, the pun almost always accompanied one of the characters fainting in disbelief of the stupidity, foolishness or dim-wittedness exhibited by another, most often Condorito, along with the onomatopoeia “PLOP!” The absurd antics remained, yet as the years passed, Condorito’s environment begin to shift from situations of desperation, a lower-class model, to situations of middleclass comforts. All the while he still finds himself in the same moronic situations. From the first vignette that appeared in a 1949 issue of Okey magazine, to its current presence in three languages and 13 countries, including the United States, Condorito has now shed many of his Chilean idiosyncrasies. After Pepo sold the rights to Sergio Mujica following the 1973 coup d’etat, the comic strip underwent a lifestyle makeover, a type of neutralization that left it naked of its prior sharpness. Condorito began losing its edge. “Now he doesn’t drink, he doesn’t smoke,” said Amunátegui. “From ‘73 on, [Mujica] takes it to Spain and starts analyzing the vocabularies of all of the Latin American countries. Then he shrinks down the words in order

Straight off Chile’s national coat of arms, the condor was Pepo’s answer to Disney, and over the past 60 years it has arguably become the most famous cartoon to ever come from Latin American ink

for the humor to be understood all over the region. This makes it a little bit less funny for the Chilean society, but it makes it funny for kids all over the Americas. Chile is such a small market it didn’t really matter. From my point of view, it’s one of the cartoons that has lost its identity.” “Your complaints are unfair,” Pepo said to Condorito. “There are others who have less than you. I have given you a small but cozy house. Other than that, you don’t pay me rent. (Nor will he ever pay it...)” Situated in the humble, semi-rural Pelotillehue, Condorito’s town was not unlike those of Chile’s central zone at the time, which gradually became bigger cities. It hosted fútbol matches with rival-town Cumpeo, held hotly contested elections and accommodated a whole slew of friends. There’s Ungenio, a white-haired dope with a gigantic nose and teeth, who is always a dear friend to all. Then there’s Don Chuma, a stand-up gentleman and a great friend who always bails Condorito out of tough situations. There’s Washington, his pet dog, Coné, his lookalike nephew, and Matías, his smart parrot friend, just to name a few. “Also I have given you a beautiful girlfriend, anyone would want her for themselves,” Pepo explained to Condorito. Yayita, whose dimensions make Barbie appear realistic, remains Condorito’s faithful soul mate, yet she always seems to possess a knack for flirtation, spawning several rival men in the mix. “In the world, everyone has enemies,” Pepo said to Condorito. “Even the great geniuses had their critics, disbelievers and ingrates. Why wouldn’t you have to have yours? “You will not be a genius, but you represent people passing through humanity. (This guy thinks geniuses walk in sandals...) At the very best you are passing into posterity.” Condorito’s final page has not yet been written in history. His story continues to influence generation after generation. Those who read the comic strip as kids give their children the same joy of discovering humor while practicing their native language.

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SEPTEMBER 2011 / Interview

“I think the biggest legacy of Pepo is the education,” said Amunátegui, whose team for 15 years has been working with the challenge of digitally animating a character that has never been meant to appear on a screen. “Condorito has been a natural teacher for lots of kids in South America. It’s much easier to read a comic than to read a book, and it’s cheaper to find. Being a natural educator, we wanted to use his ability to get into kids’ hearts in order to bring education. That’s the main legacy I feel I get from Pepo—how to turn something that is entertainment... [into] education as you learn to read. And if he taught you how to read, why can’t he teach how to write or draw?” For over a year Amunátegui has headed up an effort to bring Condorito the classroom, an idea that he first tested in one of the most difficult atmospheres for learning: jail. He taught minors how to draw and animate on computers, and some made Condorito airplanes that they then sold. With the course now tested, they are applying the methodology for free in some

low-income schools in Santiago. “We would like to prove that education is very selfdependent,” said Amunátegui. “If you want to learn, you learn more. You don’t need to rely on school. You rely on your parents and some on school, but you also have to rely on yourself. That’s why we believe online education is a means of being more equal for society. The people who have money can pay for it, but for the ones that don’t, they might as well receive it for free. We are teachers at the end of the day. We love the character, and we want to move it forward.” Condorito’s influence has come full circle. He was born in Chile, flew internationally and now has returned for a new innovative page. He already made his mark in Chilean history, but with the help of Amunátegui and his crew, the famous condor is making a comeback in a meaningful way, avoiding any slip into posterity in the near future. “Me into posterity, with this dog’s life?” said Condorito.

“There you go complaining again, you ingrate,” said Pepo. “I’ve given you relationships, good friends and a buddy like none other. You’ve traveled throughout the world. I’ve given you good jobs. I’ve given you importance through your jokes and adventures. You have the affection of the old and young. In the end, you are a very important figure...” Condorito looked at Pepo with a face that screamed, “What’s the big idea?” “The ingrate is you,” he said. “Thanks to me, you are popular. Now I understand what you were telling me about ingrates and disbelievers. (If it wasn’t for me, what would you throw in your pot?)” “I see you are understanding the world,” said Pepo. “Yeah, that’s OK, I understand the world in my own way, but tell me one thing,” said Condorito, “if I hadn’t been such a good actor, WHAT WERE YOU LIVING ON BEFORE I WAS BORN?” Butt of the pun, Pepo fainted with his feet in the air, ink flying off his pen... “PLOP!” • ILC

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Interview / SEPTEMBER 2011

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SEPTEMBER 2011 / TRAVEL

›› La Yein Fonda

Created in 1997 by Álvaro Henríquez, lead singer of Chilean rock band Los Tres, the Yein (pronounced “Jane”) fonda is best known for its musical performances. This year’s artists include Los Tres, Illapu, La Sonora de Tommy Rey, Buddy Richard, Maria Esther Zamora, Pepe Fuentes and more. Check it out during the day for a more family-friendly environment with traditional cueca dancers and typical Chilean foods, but have the babysitter pick the kids up for once and be ready to party until 5 a.m. When: September 16-18 Where: Parque Quinta Normal Cost: 1-6 p.m. $ 3,000; kids are free 8 p.m. - 5 a.m. $12,000 presale; $ 15,000 day of the event www.facebook.com/pages/LA-YEIN-FONDA

›› Fonda Oficial de Maipú

For those of you in Maipú, gather the family and enjoy performances by Willy Sabor, Sonora Palacios Jr., Grupo Cumbia Twins, Doble de Américo, Nueva Ola Chilena, Ballet Fantasia Folcklorica Chilena and several Chilean folklore groups at the official fonda of Maipú. When: September 16-18 Where: Complejo Deportivo Don Oscar; Avenida Pajaritos 4155, Paradero 13 fondaoficialdemaipu.cl

›› Parque O’Higgins

Probably Santiago’s most popular, the fonda located in Parque O’Higgins is home to the “official fonda,” named this year to be “La Grandiosa Bertita,” where President Piñera and governor of Santiago Pablo Zalaquett will announce the inauguration of the Independence Day celebrations. However, the chicha and terremotos are known to flow a little more heavily here, thus creating an environment that isn’t always appropriate for children. When: September 16-19 until 10 p.m. Where: Parque O’Higgins Cost: Entrance to the park is free, but each tent has its own price to enter (usually no more than $ 3,000)

›› La Fiesta Chilena

With annual coupons sent out to residents of Ñuñoa and already low prices, La Fiesta Chilena in the Estadio Nacional is one of the most affordable fondas. But don’t let the low prices fool you, this celebration is full of rodeos, games and foods worth much more than their price tag. When: September 15-18 Where: Estadio Nacional

2011 Guide to Santiago’s Fondas By Kelsey Bennett As the 18 approaches, grocery stores fill with shoppers looking to fill up on chicha, vino and, of course, an endless array of meat; Chilean flags emerge on every storefront, bridge beam and street vendor’s blanket and the smog that usually pollutes Santiago becomes a haze of patriotism. People of all ages unite to celebrate Chile’s birthday in fondas across the country, but the wide variety of these carnival-like celebrations in Santiago alone can have you wondering which is right for you. Find your glass slipper of Chilean fondas here. Cost: Adults $ 2,000; senior citizens and kids $ 1,000; Combo 1 adult plus 1 child $2,500 www.nunoa.cl

›› Fonda Guachaca

For an authentic Chilean experience, look no further than the Estación Mapocho for the fonda guachaca—guachaca meaning quintessentially Chilean. Watch the Reyes Guachacas flaunt their “Chilean-ness” and witness one of the original “guachaca kings,” Dióscoro Rojas transform into “The Guachelor” and hand out roses to “Miss Chicha Fresca 2011.” Afterward, sample some of the winning pebre made by the champion of Chile’s first-ever guachaca pebre contest held on September 6 in the Vega Central. Stick around until 8 p.m. to listen to some cueca music brought to you by Los Santiaguinos and Los Corrigüelas. When: September 16-18 Where: Estación Mapocho Cost: (for the musical show beginning at 8 p.m.) $5,000 pre-sale; $ 6,000 at the door www.guachacas.cl

›› Semana de la Chilenidad

Why celebrate for just a few days when you can wish Chile a happy birthday all week long? Parque Hurtado has been home to “the week of Chilean-ness” for 16 years, and this year is no exception. La Semana de la Chilenidad truly has something for everyone with rodeos, horseback riding, live concerts, kite flying and, of course, the food and drinks that make the 18 worth celebrating. When: September 9-19

Where: Parque Hurtado Cost: Adults $ 4,000; senior citizens and kids $ 1,500; Parking $ 3,000 www.semanadelachilenidad.cl

›› Fonda Vegana

If you’d rather celebrate the 18 without consuming an enormous amount of meat, head on over to the fonda vegana, made especially for the huaso vegetariano (vegetarian cowboy), and enjoy the 100 percent vegetarian empanadas, choripanes, hamburgers, completos, anticuchos, French fries and more. While you savor your guilt-free meal, check out the live music, participate in contests and relax with family. When: September 18-19, 12-9 p.m. Where: Condell 566, Providencia, Metro Parque Bustamante Cost: $ 2,000; kids under 12 $ 800 huasovegetariano.blogspot.com

›› La Fiesta Dieciochera

La Fiesta Dieciochera is a kid-friendly environment that parents can enjoy alongside their kids. Meander through the artisan market or watch the children’s cueca dance contest while your kids have a ball exploring the various carnival games and inflatable trampolines. When: September 15-19; 11 a.m-12 a.m. Where: Parque Inés de Suárez, between Francisco Bilbao and Antonio Varas Cost: Adults $ 2,700; senior citizens and kids $ 1,200 www.providencia.cl

HISTORY / SEPTEMBER 2011

Battles, Babies and the Fight for Chilean Independence By Ben Angel

Photos: National Archive - DIBAM

ritish-born George Edwards, a 7-year veteran privateer and ship’s surgeon, hid in an old container at the Hacienda Pañuelas, home of Artillery Captain Don Diego Ossandon, 6 kilometers from La Serena. Edwards was aware that the Spanish homeowner knew exactly where he was and that the Spanish authorities would soon learn the same. But it was his shipmates, who had condemned him as a deserter, whom he feared. Love at first sight drove him to this curled-up position. Edwards was awestruck by Isabel, Ossandon’s 20-year-old daughter. Marriage to her, and a tranquil life on a coastal farm far away from the conflicts in 1804 Europe, seduced him from his privateering adventures and into this hiding place. The morning the Spanish Army regained the hacienda, the young deserter was rousted from his hiding place and taken in chains by ship to Callao in present Peru. Edwards spent a year in prison before the Ossandon family could offer refuge. In 1805, Edwards-Brown, later known as Jorge Edwards Brown (renamed in accordance with Spanish naming customs; Brown was his mother’s maiden name), returned to Hacienda Pañuelas and married Isabel, the woman who drew him to La Serena in 1807. He would never see his birthplace near London’s Finsbury Square again.

The Scorpion Affair When the winter of 1807 turned to spring, Edwards-Brown completed his wartime defection by joining La Serena’s cavalry regiment. Joaquin Domingo Felipe Benicio Edwards Ossandon, a future Chilean politician, was born the following winter. On the Friday following his first son’s baptism, Captain Tristan Bunker sailed the British whaling frigate “Scorpion” into the Bay of Tongoy. Bunker took an interest in Edwards-Brown’s defection having served as his first captain. Bunker’s arrival was probably nerve-wracking for the young cavalryman, at least until fisherman Pedro Antonio Castillo arrived with a note that asked if there was any news that could be to his former captain’s advantage. Edwards-Brown must have been relieved that the British captain hadn’t sent men ashore to capture and prosecute him, and perhaps he felt some warmth for his former shipmate; he responded to Bunker with an unsigned warning in English describing a plot to capture a foreign smuggler’s ship, using a trade opportunity as bait. This should have alarmed the privateer, who was in fact smuggling goods to Chile. Nonetheless, on September 11, Bunker sailed from Coquimbo southward to a secret rendezvous brokered the year before by a U.S.-born medical doctor living in Quillota. The journey ended in the very trap that Edwards-Brown described. On September 25, Bunker exchanged English trading cloth for Chilean copper ingots with Francisco Carreraand Pedro Sanchez. After the ingots were safely in the ship’s hold, Carrera and Sanchez invited Bunker and his officers to a banquet at the nearby Hacienda Topocalma. During the banquet, a police squad broke in and shot the

English visitors dead, and by morning, Bunker’s frigate was sailing northward to Valparaiso under Carrera and Sanchez’s command. The incident attracted attention and Governor Francisco Antonio Garcia Carrasco reported the incident to Spain in December. The Supreme Central Junta, the Bourbon successor-government fighting the Bonapartes, responded with a royal decree in August 1809 calling for a full investigation into the matter. Once the decree came back to Chile, Carrasco’s finger pointed in every direction, including against Edwards-Brown and fisherman Castillo. The governor personally oversaw both arrests and served as EdwardsBrown’s judge, quickly finding him guilty of crimes against the state for warning Bunker of the trap set for him. The Englishman was imprisoned in Santiago, a considerable distance from his again-pregnant wife. Meanwhile, outside the prison walls, the investigation finally implicated Governor Carrasco himself, and his opportunistic secretary Juan Martinez de Rozas, the two who most profited from the criminal act. The Scorpion Affair turned many of Carrasco’s supporters against the Royalist cause and for independence.

In Santiago at the start of the Revolution Edwards-Brown was released after five months incarceration in March 1810. However, the Englishman’s movements were restricted to Santiago, where he watched the transformation of colonial Chile into something resembling an independent state. Sadly, this restriction meant that Edwards Brown missed the birth of his daughter, Teresa Gregoria Edwards Ossandon, the future wife of sailor and miner Pablo Hinckley Delano Ferguson, on June 1. On September 18, the Conde de la Conquista called leading Chileans to a meeting in Santiago; the chant, “We want a junta” dominated the hall. Finally, the Conde stood up, placed the ceremonial governor’s

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baton on the table and said, “Here is the baton, take it and rule.” These words mark the birth of Chile.

Life in the New Republic In La Serena, Isabel gave birth to her third child, the future Valparaiso politician, Juan Bautista Edwards Ossandon. Late in July, a British warship docked at. A few days later on July 26, a carriage pulled into Santiago carrying the ship’s most important passenger, Jose Miguel Carrera, the scion of a most important colonial Chilean family. In response to news about a new junta controlling his homeland, he returned home to protect his family’s interests, which seemed to closely coincide with Chilean independence. On September 4 Carrera and his two brothers, both Santiago-based army commanders, deposed the junta in a coup d’état. On November 15, Carrera carried out a second coup that elevated him to Supreme Director of independent Chile. Edwards-Brown was in La Serena during this period in 1812 as Isabel again became pregnant. Also in 1812, the new country’s first newspaper, Aurora de Chile, was published in February; De Rozas was defeated in congressional elections in July and an attack on Juan Jose Carrera caused Juan Miguel Carrera to step down as Supreme Director, all before the end of Isabel’s pregnancy. She gave birth to Jose Santiago Edwards Ossandon, future newspaper founder, on September 4.

The War of the Patria Vieja The Royalist threat to the Chilean Republic came at the end of the summer, 1813. Brigadier Antonio Pareja marched into Concepción on March 29, while three days later, the Chilean army organized at Talca under newly promoted Brigadier Jose Miguel Carrera. Among the men who formed commands to fight for the Republican cause was politician Bernardo O’Higgins. Edwards-Brown, whose wife was again pregnant, soon served under this Irish-Chilean. Carrera sent O’Higgins to Linares to intercept the Royalist army vanguard under Melchor Carvajal, and on April 6, O’Higgins seized the city’s Plaza de Armas in Chile’s first victory against Spain. Other Republican commanders were not as successful, and

Patria Vieja Army Shield.

SEPTEMBER 2011 / HISTORY Santiago 1800’s.

in August, Chillán fell after a few weeks siege by Pareja’s successor, Juan Francisco Sanchez. The loss drove the government from Talca on October 15. Two days after the Chilean government fled to Santiago, Carrera made one last attempt to restore his reputation and retake Chillán in a two-pronged attack against Sanchez. However, spies told Sanchez about the plan, and the Royalist commander ambushed Carrera’s army that Sunday at the Battle of El Roble. Most of Carrera’s soldiers followed their leader into the Itata River in order to escape what appeared to be certain defeat. However, O’Higgins formed a perimeter around the Republican cannons and inflicted heavy losses on the attacking Royalists. Edwards-Brown was among the 200 men under the Irish-Chilean leader who refused to allow Sanchez to carry the day. On November 2, O’Higgins replaced Carrera as Republican Army commander. Before the year’s end, Edwards-Brown returned home to find his second great victory that year, after the Battle of El Roble, the birth of yet another daughter, Maria del Carmen Edwards Ossandon, Scotsman David Ross’ future wife. After several battles between the armies of O’Higgins and the Viceroy of Peru, with losses on both sides, month-long negotiations produced the Treaty of Lircay. Edwards-Brown likely went home on furlough, as by July, when the Viceroy of Peru sent yet another expedition southward and Carrera again deposed an existing government in Santiago in a third coup d’état, his wife was again pregnant. He was back in the field on August 28, when the Supreme Director defeated his rival at the Battle of Las Tres Acequias near San Bernardo on the Maipu River. The day after, both armies were informed about a new threat, the Talavera Regiment and Brigadier Mariano Osorio arriving at Talcahuano. O’Higgins held off the Royalists for nearly a month as he built up defenses around Rancagua. However, O’Higgins was in a desperate situation with few options. With only his 200 best men, including Edwards-Brown, he broke through enemy lines.

The Reconquista Just after the disaster at Rancagua, O’Higgins, Carrera and their followers fled to Mendoza. The Talavera Regiment under Osorio pursued the Re-

publican army, occupying Santiago on October 5. The first month under Royalist Governor Osorio, 200 revolutionary leaders in Santiago were captured, put in chains and marched to Valparaiso where they were shipped to the remote Juan Fernandez Islands. Captain Vicente San Bruno took over security in the capital. Edwards Brown was likely still in La Serena when his next son was born on April 2. Jose Agustin de Dios Edwards Ossandon would someday become a noteworthy banker and railroad promoter in the Chilean republic. When O’Higgins crossed the mountains with San Martin’s Army of Liberation a year later, EdwardsBrown was alongside his commander.

Chacabuco, the Liberation of Chile Jose Maria Edwards Ossandon was born January 19, 1817. This son died in his early 20s. Ten days after this birth, the Army of Liberation left General Jose de San Martin’s headquarters at El Plumerillo, Argentina, marching over the Uspallata Pass. A third of the soldiers would die trying to get over the top of the 4,000-meter high, unguarded gateway into Chile. On February 1, San Martin arrived at Los Andes and waited for his rearguard’s arrival before moving further into Chile A week later, a war council was held by Royalist Governor Marco del Pont to discuss measures to be taken, and the decision was made to hold out at the

Hacienda Chacabuco, not far from where San Martin was gathering his newly arrived men. As troops from Santiago dug in at the hacienda under Brigadier Rafael Maroto, San Martin drew up his plan of attack. At the battle’s start on February 12, the division under O’Higgins was deployed on the left side of a pincer attack. Maroto’s surprise advance of nearly all his men put Edwards-Brown and the other 1,500 men under O’Higgins under grave threat. After hours of defense, O’Higgins ordered a Napoleonicstyle bayonet charge against the Talavera Battalion. The same charge, when tried a second time, succeeded in routing the Royalists, and over the next half-hour, Maroto’s men completely fled the field. A total of 500 of his men lay dead on the battlefield, 600 were held prisoner and only 130 made it back to Santiago. The rest simply went missing. Following the Battle of Chacabuco, EdwardsBrown went home to La Serena. By November, his wife was pregnant, but for the last time. He took an active role in collecting funds to support the Viceroy of Peru’s overthrow, removing the last big threat to the Chilean state. O’Higgins, after emerging from the post-Chacabuco fighting near Concepción, took notice of this selfless act by a former subordinate and as Supreme Director of Chile, he called the English exile to the capital. On July 21, the Chilean leader personally presented to Edwards-Brown papers making him a Chilean citizen, citing his service to the Republican cause. Two days later, Isabel also rewarded the new Chilean with his eighth and youngest child, Jacoba Edwards Ossandon, future wife of Boston native Thomas “Benito” Farleton Smith. Edwards Brown’s devotion to building the new country of Chile did not diminish after he gained citizenship. He represented several constituencies in the Provincial Assembly of Coquimbo, and held office in the Congress of Plenipotentiaries. His daughters married men who found their own way to build the new country, alongside his sons, who went into banking, mining, politics and journalism. One of his grandsons, Augustin Edwards MacClure, not only founded the Santiago edition of “El Mercurio,” after purchasing the already-existing Valparaiso edition, but also was the president of the General Assembly of the League of Nations in 1922-23. Another grandchild served an international role in the French Resistance in World War II, bringing great credit to her country of birth, the same country that her one-time privateer grandfather helped build--Chile. • ILC

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HEALTH / SEPTEMBER 2011

Spring Detox – One day a week for One month By Marcelle Dubruel

Example: Weekly Detox day

etoxing is not about starving yourself, counting calories, obsessing about the fat content of what you are eating or constantly getting on the scales to check whether the five kilograms you are trying to lose disappeared overnight. Detoxing is about maintaining good balance in your body by eating healthily and enjoying nutritious meals that support your system. Spring is the perfect time of the year to embark on a cleaning–from-the-inside-out regime. Following a detoxification program means: 1) limiting or eliminating toxins, which the liver otherwise has to detoxify and 2) choosing foods which will both support the detoxification process and help the digestive system to eliminate waste efficiently. A slow, sluggish, overloaded digestive system results in chyme (partially-digested food) sitting around in the small and large intestine for longer than it should. This can result in toxins and partially digested food particles being re-absorbed rather than eliminated. One simple way to give your digestive system a break and your body a chance to catch up with detoxification is to set aside one day a week as a detox day. Eat light meals the day before you start your detox. On your detox day, drink plenty of water, vegetable juices and herbal teas. Eat vegetable soups and salads, including some foods from the list that follows. Avoid caffeine, alcohol, dairy, wheat, processed foods with flavorings and colorants and sugar. • ILC

VENTA DE ENTRADAS SIN CARGO POR SERVICIO LOS DÍAS MIÉRCOLES DE 10 A.M. A 12 P.M. EN LAS OFICINAS DE PUNTOTICKET. ROSARIO NORTE 555, OF. 1104, LAS CONDES.

Marcelle Dubruel is graduated from the College of Naturopathic and Complementary Medicine in London. Visit www.rootstovitality.com

Remember to eat lightly the day before

Breakfast: Mug of hot water with slice of lemon or lime. Fruit salad – large bowl chopped up kiwi, strawberries and mango Snack: Glass of water 1 apple and a tablespoon of pumpkin seeds Lunch: Glass of water Carrot and red lentil soup or Salad: Sliced avocado, large handful of baby spinach leaves, watercress and grated carrot. Drizzle with olive oil, juice of ½ orange and sesame seeds. Walk around the park for some fresh air and light exercise. Snack: Mug of hot water with slice of lemon or lime/glass of water/herb tea 1 pear and a tablespoon of almonds Dinner: Glass of water Roasted fennel and garlic, steamed broccoli and cauliflower, served on a bed of brown rice. Dressing: Mix capful of avocado oil, capful of apple cider vinegar and juice of ½ lime. Sprinkle of herb/Himalayan salt. Drizzle dressing over rice and vegetables. Add a sprinkle of sunflower seeds. Fennel/peppermint/chamomile tea. Fennel tea has a sweet licorice flavor and is a delicious after dinner tea. Sleep: Have an early night to ensure plenty of rest. Note: There are many popular detoxification programs to choose from, but it is important to check with your doctor before changing your diet. The above detox day would not be appropriate if you have blood sugar balance problems. In this case add some protein to the main meals. Add 1 tub of natural yoghurt to the breakfast fruit salad, a potion of tuna to the lunch salad and steamed fish or grilled chicken to your evening meal.

The following table will give you more ideas for good foods to consider when creating you own detox day meals. Have fun. Be Healthy!

12 Detox foods APPLES Rich in pectin, soluble fiber, good for healthy bowel movements. FENNEL Helps stimulate the body’s natural detoxifying organs, including the liver. Supports digestive system. Rich in potassium which helps rebalance body’s fluid levels.

CARROTS Rich in antioxidants, alpha-carotene, beta-carotene, boost immunity.

PUMPKIN SEEDS Contain omega 3 and omega 6 oils, “go od” fats, promote he althy skin.

MANGO Rich in beta-carotene and vitamin C, good sources of vitamin E, potassium and fiber.

GARLIC Rich in allicin, an antioxidant with many health benefits. Antiviral and antibacterial actions. Can bind toxins and promote their elimination.

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SEPTEMBER 2011 / SOCIAL RESPONSABILITY By Pablo Retamal

Photo: ILC Archive

Why The Dieciocho is TheGo Highs and Lows Time Green COURTESY PHOTO

of Chile’s Tourism Industry

English AA in Chile

Get the latest news headlines everyday on www.ilovechile.cl

n e w s

n the midst of burning-coal-fueled BBQ’s, fat-dripping-steaks, countless empanada munching and red wine flowing celebrations—how on Earth can anyone think of sustainability and climate change around the fiestas patrias? It’s a time for being patriotic, stamping your feet and screaming Viva Chile! Where does green come into the picture? “It doesn’t Pablo!” will scream a lot of my fellow Chilenos. Blinded by custom and resistant to change, they will tell me 9 the dieciocho (eighteenth) must remain the dieciocho. But that’s exactly it, guys! Don’t you see that Tiki-tiki-tee time is a unique opportunity to gather momentum and encourage the much needed paraBy Al Ramirez digm shift society needs to avoid disastrous climate change? After all, what can ummer’s almost here and the season How have the events, which have try not to exclude any information that be more patriotic than safeguarding the has already begun to take shape for occurred throughout this year, affected can benefit our country and its regions.” - Rodrigo Gonzalez, General Manager of well-being of future generations, than those in the tourism industry. High your company? “ChileXclusive Travel & Incoming” preventing climatic vulnerability, than season begins in mid-December seeking climatic justice, than making the and ends around mid-March. On the earthquake: Studies show that over the last five What area do you think needs country’s economy resilient to a petrol years, tourism in Chile has been growing an “... It was in our agenda to provide services more improvement in toursim (tour crisis, than protecting Chile’s biodiveraverage of 7% to 9% per year with visitors for an international construction congress, companies, restaurants, hotels, shops, close to three-hundred million which was going to take place in Santiago musums, etc.)? sity? Opting to make a statement in spending favor of a more sustainable lifestyle duringdollars the per month. However, there have this past September, being the MOP been certain events that have shaken and (Public Works Ministry) our main sponsor. “All of them. But, specifically, I think 18 can’t be easier! stirred the industry such as the February For obvious reasons, the money they had commissions should be regulated because Being green is not just responsibilities 27th earthquake and the decrease in cruise destined for the congress had to be used sometimes it gets out of hand. I am not and a positive attitude—it’s also the coolest ships that will arrive this year, which went immediately after the earthquake in order against commissions for those who take thing since online shopping. Companies from approximately forty-five per year to to aid the affected regions in the south people to restaurants, hotels, shops, etc., the uncertain twenty-eight to thirty that of Chile.” - Cristian Martinez, General this is how it’s done pretty much all around are looking for a green story to tell. These are scheduled to dock this season. Manager of Pacifico Andino Expeditions, the world, but I think 10% is more than days they will stoop down as low as “green One favorable point is the media coverage Urban & Adventure Tours Chile enough. This can only be regulated through washing” their brands to demonstrate ecoan extensive market study and some serious credentials. Just think of all these carbon On the US dollar exchange rate: effort from the government.” - Jose Luis neutral companies. Many have bought the Rojas, General Manager of Serviline Pacific “Any kind of important event in Chile Viña del Mar, Radio Taxi Service. carbon neutral bragging rights through will affect my business directly. Lately it carbon credits. Carbon credits produced has been the instability in the American because some coal-based power plant in currency (I charge in US dollars), which India reduced by 10 percent its energy conmeans that we have to charge more. We sumption? Really? Is that the best you can are now less competitive in the South American market when it comes to do? Honestly, I rather go back to good old tourism because Chile is one of the most planting trees! expensive countries for tourists. That If you are planning your own celebraobviously means that they tend to stay tions this 18, don’t forget to ask potential less time here.” - Hector Medina, owner of vendors about their ideas regarding susAs the years go by, the people who work “Hector’s Private & Flexible Tour Service” in tourism expect to receive a wider tainability. If they know it’s important to their business, they’ll think creativelyChile too; obtained for the rescue of the thirty- What must a company do in order to scale of visitors, but it seems clear that the earthquake, the unstable currency, put the pressure on them! Hopefully,three they miners, which has put our country grow in such a seasonal line of work? on the map as a nation that has overcome the decrease in cruises and the rescue will think, “More people are demanding several tragedies and is ready for whatever “First of all, giving quality service in every of the thirty-three miners have changed me to go green!” vicissitudes may occur in the future. aspect, which includes working honestly the impression foreingers have of Chile. and respectfully towards our passengers. Having a ministry of tourism seems to be Yes you, the responsible consumer! In order to get a better perspective of In the end, the concept of seasonal work an essential issue, and little by little we will You’re in charge of making this trend what is happening in this “rollercoaster” isn’t something that affects all of Chile; likely see changes that will allow for Chile to happen! So remember, when it comes to industry, I interviewed a few people who there are many places here that are visited advance on an international level, which can celebrating in style, going green is thedepend new There 150 thousand tonsthe of garbage during theisfiestas patrias.only be of help to those who rely on tourism on thisare seasonal income for all year produced round, so the answer to mention black. success of their business. these places within your programs and for their livelihood. According to a 2009 statistic from Vi- deliver lasting prosperity for its citizens. thought is that solving the problem will worse; we’re sacrificing our money, and trina Ambiental, there are 150 thousand The low-carbon economy is therefore in- require sacrifice. As though our wasteful- sacrificing what is big and permanent, tons of garbage produced during the fiestas trinsically related to the green economy by ness of energy and money is not sacrifice. to prolong what is small, temporary and patrias by fondas across Chile. Plastic bot- constituting one of the principal building As though war built around oil is not harmful. We’re sacrificing animals, peace, tles, glass, paper, cartons, aluminum cans blocks needed to erect more modern and sacrifice. As though losing polar bears, and children to retain wastefulness while and leftover foods are abundant. Last year, resilient economies in the future. A return ice-dependent penguins, coral reefs and enriching those who disdain us.” the Ministry of Environment set a good to pre-crisis business-as-usual would be thousands of other living companions is So there you have it. Being patriotic example by starting a recycling pilot pro- unwise. We know that would lead to un- not sacrifice. As though withered cropland this year starts with you doing what is Industrial Heating and Steam gram to make Parque O’Higgins’ fondas bearable human costs and constraints on is not a sacrifice, or letting the fresh water Systems best for this country. You’re not ChilResidential Heating eco-friendly. Ninety tons of garbage were economic growth, quality of life and overall of cities dry up as glacier-fed rivers shrink. ean? Doesn’t matter, show Chileans how Highseawater efficiencyinundation Pellet andand Solid Wood Stoves re-used and prevented from ending up in world prosperity. New development path- As though risking it should be done: activate Code Green! landfills. The decaying process in land- ways must protect the economy by put- the displacement of hundreds of millions Drink organic wine, recycle your garbage, Solar Systems fills contributes to global warming since ting in place green growth strategies that of coastal people not aAvenue sacrifice—and Vicuña is Mackenna #801, Los Angeles, Chileheck, dance the cueca with a green handPhone: don’t (56-43) 318246 • Cell Phone Sales: (59-9) methane (CH4) is produced. This gas is tackle water scarcity, resource bottlenecks, reckless risk. But tell me to own a 99996547 kerchief if you must! Whatever it takes to Temucothat City: Av. Pedro debe Valdivia 0135, Phone make (56-45) 646009 21 times more powerful than an equivalent air and water pollution, climate change and more efficientincar; would a sacripeople notice you are being a true Palazzetti: Av. Las Condes 8283, Santiago, Phone (56-2) 2204189 CO2 unit. biodiversity loss. However, it seems that fice! We thinkShowroom we don’t want to sacrifice, Chilean (or conscientious Gringo) by beSo why all the fuss? What’s green got although Chile needs protection in all of but sacrifice is exactly what we’re doing ing green. Gordon Gecko’s Wall Street said to do with being patriotic? In 2011, as these areas, we passively go about our lives by perpetuating problems that only get it best “GREEDN IS GOOD.” • ILC the world economy is unevenly coming and attempt a business-as-usual approach out of the worst crisis most humans alive to solving the problem. have ever known, the global economic reSociety needs to act quickly if we are covery presents an ideal opportunity for to benefit from the opportunities energy countries to shift towards green and low security, clean cities and natural capitalism carbon growth. Considering the imme- will bring. In order to achieve this, Chile diate threat presented by climate change, must activate what I will call Code Green. the green economy is not a luxury, but a Why? Because as a society we have crossed 21-century imperative. With the global a line where it is no longer a mere matter market for low-carbon goods forecast to of sustainability vs. development. It is a grow by 4 percent a year up to 2015, this matter of morality. Dysfunctional values is a major export and employment oppor- married to catastrophic leadership has led tunity; one that will not just offer an alter- us to the place you go when you are made contact@englishaainchile.cl native development channel for Chile, but to believe the solution is a sacrifice! My also provide options for the future. good friend Carl Safina said it best: www.englishaainChile.cl If Chile adapts quickly to a carbon“Of all the psychopathology in the cliconstrained world, it will be better able to mate issue, the most counter-productive

TRAVEL / SEPTEMBER 2011

Secrets of the Andes By Pamela Villablanca

September recommendations:

We, too, are celebrating Chile’s Independence and that means BBQ. We invite you to discover the variety cabernet sauvignon, a classic match. Choose wines from this grape from the different valleys mentioned above and tell us what you think. If you are a vegetarian, we recommend you to stay with young wines. They will express the variety itself and will allow you to enhance the flavor and smells of your veggies and spices. You’ll like the price, too, usually no more than $ 4,000.

he most impressive image for the traveler visiting Chile for the first time is to wake up in the airplane and look at the sun rising beyond the Andes Mountain Range. It appears like a sleeping giant with its highest elevation Mount Aconcagua with almost 7,000 meters above sea level. It is in this region where the most famous wine areas in Chile are located. In the following lines we will check them all from north to south and discover what the Andes are hiding in its soils and what the rivers are nourishing. All of us living in Chile are spoilt to see and taste these wonders. One of the beauties in Chile is the diversity of geography and climate. Not only from north to south, wandering from desert to ice fields, but also from the east to the west, discovering the territory from the mountains through the valleys on our way to the Pacific Ocean and beyond to the beautiful Robinson Crusoe and Easter Islands. Elqui valley has seen a great transition from its origins to these days, La Serena was one of the first cities established by the Spaniards. Until recently, we saw nothing but the replacement of the original vines into grapes for pisco, the typical stilled alcohol. A few years ago a few families decided to give the valley a new purpose and planted vitisvinifera. Limari Valley surprises everyone with its recently implemented archeological route. There are just a few wineries and an amazing vineyard leading biodynamic farming in Chile. When driving towards Santiago, there is a jewel for those enjoying nature: the reservation Fray Jorge. To visit wineries here, it is wise to have a map and a few recommendations regarding routes to take. Aconcagua is probably the most impressive landscape along with a combination of the oldest wineries and leading ultra premium wines. The valley is the house for one of the highest peaks in South America and an amazing drive through the mountains to cross to the neighbor country, Argentina. We find elegant, ripe, deep red wines.

Santiago is located in Maipo Valley. Here is where we breathe history while experiencing the highest concentration of population in the country. There are two rivers irrigating the area, which was the main reason for the settlement of the Spanish colony. A fertile valley in its beginning, Maipo has pushed vineyards and wineries to its limits through its population growth. Two of the ultra premium wines from Chile come from the denominations Puente Alto. It was tradition in colonial times to build the mission at a distance that a horse could do in a day. We can find beautiful examples of these missions in the Cachapoal Valley. The influence of French winemaking is clear as we approach the Andes and go a bit higher in elevation. If what we are looking for is a comfortable bike through vineyards, this is a beautiful route to discover. Considered by many to be the heart of the wine area in Chile, Colchagua Valley enjoys international recognition as one of the world’s best wine regions. It

is impossible not to mention the Apalta area, as it enjoys remarkable conditions for the production of two of the highest award-winning wines. One of these wines was in the top 100 in the world two years ago. We breathe both tradition and state-of-the-art techniques when we wander through. Casablanca & San Antonio are Chile´s newest discoveries. Near to the Pacific Ocean, they are explorations in red wines from cool climates, and definitely have positioned Chile as an outstanding, worldclass producer of elegant and characteristic sauvignon blancs and pinot noirs. It’s a delight to find red wines here, and definitely a must-do if you are looking for flowery expressions in flavors. • ILC Pamela is the International Director at Andes Wines. Chilean by birth, she was grafted to the wine business in California for several years. Certified by the Court of Master Sommeliers and Society of Wine Educators, she is now back in Chile ready to guide ILC´s readers through the wine countries of South America.

Almost well-read, a very Chilean take on nightlife and culture, every Tuesday on www.ilovechile.cl

SEPTEMBER 2011 / TRAVEL AND WINE

What is “Chicha” Anyway? The majority of chicha that you will be offered over the September 18th holiday is chicha de uva, made with grapes.

By Colin Bennett

trip to a lively fonda for Chile’s independence day festival on and around September 18th will not leave you hungry. You’re sure to get a dose of Chile’s nationalistic pride along with a whole lot of BBQ goodies. Most of it will look familiar, either to your experience here in Chile or beyond: grilled sausages, or choripan, empanadas, cold beer. It could be the 4th of July in Middle America when it comes to the grill. But what about that chicha—that potent-looking fermented drink being offered in every stand? It’s something that Chileans love to drink for their national day, but you’ll rarely see it on the dinner table. What is it anyway? First off, although it feels uniquely Chilean for the 18th, like empanadas, chicha is a drink consumed since before the conquistadores crossed the Americas. In Central America, it’s largely distilled using corn. In other countries farther south, chicha refers to more of a nonalcoholic juice using rice in Venezuela or a dark purple corn in Peru. In Chile, chicha is produced using fruit. In the south of the country they make a mean chicha de manzana, which is basically a hard apple cider. However, the majority of chicha that you will be

offered over the September 18th holiday is chicha de uva, made with grapes. It’s notably sweeter than chicha de manzana; grapes are a sweeter fruit. Sugar content is an important element to the drink since it is what ferments and gives it the alcoholic punch that seems to go so well with national pride. According to Mario Rivas, owner of Pipas de Einstein, Chileans have slowly opted for sweeter chicha in Santiago, and it has evolved from a strong, tough drink in his grandfather’s day to liquor normally consumed (and selected) by the women of the household. Mario sells two kinds of raw chicha, a white variety that uses the Muscat grape, and a red variety that uses the Pais grape. They are harvested ripe, and are therefore sweet, then get mushed together and left to ferment. At first, it’s basically juice. But by the time September hits, bubbles start to form on the rims of the bottles and the chicha is ready. In fact, it can reach an alcohol grade of 11 percent, according to Rivas. If you want to be really rustic and a true Chilean cowboy or huaso, you can drink it from a bull’s horn. It also must be said that like with any sweet liquor, this stuff can leave you with a brutal hangover. If you want to try chicha outside the holiday weekend, we recommend you head here:

Pipas de Einstein

They are the main distributor of chicha and pipeño (a cruder, artisanal wine) in Santiago. Tried a terremoto in La Piojera? The pipeño, the base of the drink, is supplied by this manufacturer. It’s a unique spot with its own country style. And you can buy it by the liter. Salud! Av. Einstein 1202, 734 3317 Colin Bennett is an editor, writer and guide with foodyChile.com, a blog and tourism website that offers food tips and tours in and around Santiago. Visit www.foodychile.com for more info.

Discover bands, restaurants and the best empanadas in Chile on www.ilovechile.cl

TRAVEL / SEPTEMBER 2011

Celebrating New Year’s

at the sea Abundant Women are Empowered Women

ver 20 tons of explosives are currently being shipped from Barcelona, Spain, to the San Antonio port in Chile. They were ordered by Mario Igual, the man in charge of one of the most extensive One of my mentors and good friend Kim Kiyosaki By Mamiko Ito fireworks in the world. “New Years is anatentrepreneur, investor, multimillionaire and wife the sea will illuminate 21 kilometres of Robert Kiyosaki, the author of Rich Dad Poor Dad. grew up 2011” in a small town in Japan with a tradi-of Chile’s coast for a 25 minute long spectacle of light. tional Japanese family. My dad worked for the I found these startling statistics about women in her same company for 42 years and my mum was a book, Rich Woman. The fireworks aregrowing a tradition housewife. When I was up, mysince mum 1952 always and are accompanied by a party that shuts • 47 percent of women over the age of fifty are single told me to find a man with a good education down and a streets and draws over 1 million visitors to the ports• and 50 percent of marriages end in divorce good job, so that he could take care of me financially. beaches each December 31st. While the show is Following her advice, I spent almost all my 20s look- • In the first year after a divorce, a woman’s standard similar every year, some novelties straight from the of living drops an average of 73 percent ing for a Mr. Right. I worked for a well-paying job in labs of Igual Pyrotechnics will surprise spectators Microsoft in Singapore for 11 years. I worked hard • Of the elderly living in poverty, 3 out of 4 are womin the first minutes of 2011. Initiated from 17 ships en—and 80 percent of them were not poor when and lying playedat hard. anchor in the bays of Valparaiso, Viña del their husbands were alive But when I hit 30, my boyfriend at that time told Mar and Concón, 30.000 explosions will light up the • Nearly 7 out of 10 women will at some time live in me that he was not ready to get married or have chilsky. The best views are rumoured to be from the dren.promenades I was heartbroken and I felt asYugoslavo, if the clockBarón was or poverty of Gervasoni, 21 ticking. Many of my friends were getting married and de Mayo. my parents were putting pressure on me. In addition, I was The working hours a day, leading a project and city fifteen of Valparaiso alone spent USD $200.000 on working with very tough Japanese men. last year’s red, white and blue fireworks theme. On One I came my apartment this day last when day of 2010,back thetocity’s bars and afnightclubs ter awill longopen day of work,while I literally had a breakdown. early, the main square willIbe filled was with exhausted. I was until lonelysunrise. and miserable. feltbeascovered if live music ExpectIto in confetti andover embraces clock hits 00:01, but I had no control my life.when I was the not married, had the celebrations reallyfor start three days advance of no children and no passion work. I was sickinand big moment, carnival tiredthe of working so hard,with beinga instreet the same place and do- parade made upthings of actors, dancers, painters, musicians and ing the same year after year and not fulfilling of course thousands from all Iover the my dream. I cried out loud. Itof wasChileans the moment when country. hit the lowest point of my life. I said to myself, “That’s enough! I’m not going to continue living like this. I’m If youtowant tosomeone go by or car, make sure to get there not going wait for something to change before noon. After that, traffic jams are likely to spoil my life. I’m going to take charge of my life!” the fun. A better idea is to take the bus, but Fast forward my story to two years later, and I’m in reserve your seat well in advance. The same goes for hotels Chile building the fastest growing personal developand apartments, which might already be booked ment company in Latin America with my husband. out despite of the elevated prices. Either way, the My life took me to a level that I’d never imagined, and Valparaiso fireworks at the sea are an experience all itnot took just one decision that IYear! was going to towas be missed. Happy New take charge of my life.

By Carolina Sipos

Can you believe that? The numbers are based on statistics in the US, but the same trend is happening in many parts of the world, including Chile, Japan and Singapore. We are living in a different world from what our mums and grandmothers used to live in, and neither marriage nor a job is secure any longer. More than ever, women have to be financially educated and independent. Many women are yet to be prepared for this new reality, and it’s not their fault and not our mum’s fault. And I’m not saying that all women should go out to work and abandon household chores. Women have a very important role in the family and empowering women has so much effect on our society. Women touch many people’s lives. We make many decisions for our families and households. We influence the health and well being of the family and our children’s education. When women are supported and empowered, the whole society benefits. “The next giant economic growth wave won’t come from the internet or China or India but from empowering women” – The Economist Magazine It’s time for women to realize their potential power and step up for themselves and the people around them. Mamiko coaches women around the world to help turn their passions and talents into a profitable business. Her simple and proven strategies help many women & men make more money, create a lifestyle that they want, and live a life based on passion and purpose. • ILC

wh at ´ s

Mamiko Ito is a Global Entrepreneur, Success Coach and Business Mentor for Women. Visit her at www.abundantwomen.com

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