Mylapore Times Journalism Course

Rains in the city

2011-06-15T20:29:00.000+05:30

By P.V Durga
The city experienced some unexpected rains during the first week of June. In T. Nagar, many people were seen coming out of their houses eagerly anticipating the rain. As soon as it began to drizzle, they stood still to enjoy the cool showers.

Some put away their umbrellas.
The rain gave a fresh look to the environment. The plants and trees looked really green.

‘Vadaa Paa’ chain in Chennai

2011-05-29T10:12:00.000+05:30

Reported by P. V. Durga

The 'Vadaa Paa' joint in Nungambakkam

‘Vadaa Paa’ is a new food joint in different parts of the city.
The chain was started in February 2011.

As the name suggests, it exclusively sells the famous North Indian snack - the vada pav.

These vada pavs are freshly made and served. They are priced at Rs.15 per vada pav.

They also have an interesting “Double Tucker” offer wherein you are served two vadas in the same paav. This one costs Rs.25.

The Vadaa Paa joints are in Nungambakkam, Triplicane, Gopalapuram, Kodambakkam and Anna Salai.

For more details visit www.facebook.com/VadaaPaa

Besant Nagar Fitness Studio has offers for summer

2011-05-20T22:53:00.000+05:30

By Arathi Kannan

O2 Health Studio, one of the most well known fitness centers in the city has launched a brand new summer offer. This offer is called “Summer Shift” and offers upto 30% discount on annual gym membership. This offer is applicable for the inumerable number of fitness programmes the gym has to offer like general fitness, fast track weight loss programme, muscle gain, wellness combo etcetera.

In addition to this, the first 50 registrations get a free towel kit and complimentary aerobics and yoga. O2 has other offers for the summer as well like junior fitness, swimming camp, kids dance and yoga.

This health studio is located in Besant Nagar and has a number of well equipped cardio fitness and strength training equipments. The trainers are certified in fitness and ensure the clients get the service they wish for. The gym also conducts yoga, dance and Pilates classes.

For more details visit O2 Health Studio in Besant Nagar 7th Cross Street or call them on 044-4551670/8636.

A Real Stress Buster

2011-05-20T22:44:00.004+05:30

By Arathi Kannan

With undue pressure mounting on students these days, it seems like almost everyone is in need of some professional help to cope with the stress. “Advising is not counselling” says Mrs. Shankari Mandiram, a psychologist who runs an institute that offers such professional help. Mrs. Mandiram believes that counselling involves a lot of empathy and not sympathy. “The counselor should have genuine concern and unconditional positive regard towards the client” she says.

She deals mainly with students and parents, especially the ones who need to build their self confidence levels. She says that the main problem parents face is anxiety about their child’s academic performance and overall development. The students on the other hand have many other problems like inability to concentrate in studies and peer pressure.

Her organisation, NISS Institute of Soft Skills Private Limited has its centre in Gandhi Nagar, Adyar and conducts various courses for students and their parents. Currently, she is conducting a summer course called “Smarter You”, a personality enhancement and soft skill training programme. She also runs long term courses that focus on psychological help and mentoring. These sessions last for over ten months.

Ask her about her future plans and she says “I am planning to start a mental conditioning course for students appearing for the IIT-JEE exam. I already have lots of clients who are under pressure due to that.”

Mrs. Shankari Mandiram can be contacted at +919940164661.

Guitar Classes at Thiruvanmiyur

2011-05-20T22:34:00.008+05:30

By Arathi Kannan

A guitar class for beginners is being conducted in Thiruvanmiyur this summer. People of all ages are eligible to join. These classes are taken by Arun Kumar, a young law aspirant who has taken to teaching guitar because of his sheer love for music. Arun is a very passionate guitarist and has played onstage on various occasions.

These classes are held once a week at his residence. Students interested are asked to bring a guitar of their own.

The fee structure is as follows:

School students: Rs.150/- per month

College students: Rs.250/- per month

Office goers: Rs.350/- per month

For more information contact Arun Kumar on +919940489835.

2011-05-20T12:36:00.004+05:30

Home-made Andhra pickles on sale

2011-05-17T19:26:00.000+05:30

By P. V. Durga

Lakshmi is a resident of Nandanam and is she is well-known for the traditional Andhra style pickles she makes and

A picture of the pickles she sells

sells.

She says her business started in March 2010.
"I was looking for Andhra pickles for my mother but I found all the pickles had preservatives and lacked the

traditional taste in them, so decided to make the pickle on my own, " she says.

Her friends also encouraged her once they found out that they were good.

She employs people in Guntur - her native town in Andhra Pradesh - to prepare the pickles. “My uncle takes care of

the preparation process there,” said Lakshmi.

She also said that no preservatives other than turmeric are added to the pickles she sells.

These homemade pickles are available throughout the year except during the November and December months (monsoon

time in Andhra ).

She also undertakes door delivery in areas like Alwarpet, Mylapore, Mandavelli, Nandanam, T. Nagar , Mambalam and

Saidapet.

Her address: Door no.7 , N Block no: 7, 5th Street, Lotus Colony, Nandanam, Chennai – 600035. Phone: (044) 6457

2233, 6457 6677. Cell: 9444183140

A Vaishnavite temple in Mylapore

2011-05-17T18:14:00.000+05:30

By Raghav N

The Sri Vedantha Desikar Devasthanam, a temple located in Mylapore, is a historically significant place. It is considered to be where Peyalvar, the 3rd of the Vaishnavite poet saints known as Alvars, was born in the 7th century.

The ancient well in which Peyalvar was found as a baby is located in this temple. It has 10 shrines, devoted to different gods, the main shrine being that of Lord Srinivasa.

The well-designed temple was renovated recently.

The temple's website, www.svdd.com, is regularly updated, giving information about upcoming events and the temple in general.

The Sri Vedantha Desikar Devasthanam is at 11, K.P Street (near Chitrakulam) in Mylapore. For details, contact 2495 3799.

Dry Cleaners on C. P. Ramaswamy Road

2011-05-16T20:51:00.006+05:30

By Raghav Nandakumar

Jawahar Dry Cleaners is located in Alwarpet, on C. P. Ramaswamy Road.

It is the only dry cleaner in the locality.

There is an interesting piece of history behind the place.

Till 10 years ago, this place was a popular departmental store called Jawahar Stores.

Jawahar Dry Cleaners be found at 25, C.P Ramaswamy road (near the Ranga Road junction). For details, contact 42108422.

English classes at P.S.High School

2011-05-14T21:23:00.001+05:30

English classes are being conducted at P. S. High school in connection with the Cambridge ESOL (English Speakers of Other Languages) programme.

The CUE English classes are conducted by A.V Shekhar and A.V. Meenakumari.

There are various levels - YLE (Young Learners English) consisting of the levels Starters, Movers and Flyers. The senior levels KET (Key English Test), PET (Preliminary English Test), FCE (First Certificate in English), CAE (Certificate in Advanced English), CPE (Certificate of Proficiency in English).

The forms for taking the exams can be filled at the coaching centre.

A.V. Shekhar' contact phone is 9444971524.

Tholkappia Poonga open now only to students

2011-05-14T16:06:00.000+05:30

By Bhavana Shiv Shankar

Tholkappia Poonga or Adyar Poonga on Greenways Road is a very interesting and beautiful place.
It has been developed with 1.4 lakh saplings of 172 native species, has a large water body and is home to birds and animals.
This is part of the Adyar River Estuary and was once a protected area with lots of bird and animal life on land and in water. It was later polluted and became a wasteland. The state decided to redevelop it again.
At present only groups of students are allowed inside the Poonga. Even teachers are not allowed unless special permission is taken.
The Poonga is open from 9 am to 12:30 pm and from 2 pm to 4:30 pm. The tickets for the entry are priced at Rs.5.
To reach this campus, you travel south on San Thome High Road and look for it after the Ayyappa Temple. You can also get here from the Mylapore side - turn left at the playground.

Art camp for children

2011-05-14T16:00:00.003+05:30

By Bhavana S

An art camp in going on at the Global Art campus at Karpagam Avenue, R. A. Puram.

It is run by the director of Thejomaya, Uma Yogeshwaran.

The camp started on May 2 and ends on May 13. It functions from 9:30 to 11:30 am, 5 days a week.

The course includes free-hand drawing and global art for children of different age groups.

22 children have enrolled for the camp. They are taught different levels of shading and how to use pastels and colours effectively.

The contact phone number is 044-45535518 and the address is No.9, First Street, Karpagam Avenue, R.A. Puram, Chennai-600 028

Bistro opens in Alwarpet

2011-05-14T10:41:00.004+05:30

By Raghav Nandakumar

A bistro will be formally opened soon on Bawa Road in Alwarpet.
It is called Ashvita.

It is a branch of Ashvita which has already been running as an art gallery and a food place for the past 4 years on Dr. Radhakrishnan Salai.
The bistro has had a soft opening.

It specialises in continental cuisine (Thai and Chinese) and snacks such as puffs and cakes.
Ashvita is open all 7 days of the week from 9 a.m. till midnight.

The bistro also sells homemade jams and pickles and recipe books. The interiors are chic.

Seating is both in open air and within the air-conditioned interior of the bistro, accommodating a maximum of 60 people.

The bistro is owned by Ashvin Rajagopal, son of the famous gynecologist Gita Arjun.

The new Ashvita is at 11, Bawa Road in Alwarpet. For details, contact 4210 9990.

Orly boutique in Lambeth Avenue, Alwarpet

2011-05-14T10:16:00.009+05:30

By Raghav Nandakumar

Lambeth Avenue is a small cul-de-sac tucked away in the heart of Alwarpet, having just about a dozen residences. A few months ago, a store bearing the name of Orly opened here.
Filmmaker Rajiv Menon cut the ribbon, setting the pace for some brisk business. The store specializes in designer wear for men, such as kurtas and sherwanis.
The store is a small, modest place.
The building is a modified residence.
Orly is at 12, Lambeth Avenue (off Bawa Road) in Alwarpet.
For details, contact 2466 1299.

New coffee shop in T. Nagar

2011-05-13T23:14:00.003+05:30

New coffee shop in T. Nagar

The coffee shop

By P. V. Durga

Caffe Crush is a new hangout for the youth in T. Nagar. It is on Habibullah Road.

This fifteen-day old shop has a nice ambience set to the theme of an English home side. You can sink into cosy couches here.

It offers you a variety of cold and hot coffees and tasty snacks to munch on.

An associate of the owners said that Chennai was a very conservative place and it is only in the last few years that the people have started to come out of their personal spaces.

He said that the motive behind setting up this shop was to provide customers with quality food and a place where they can relax and unwind.

The interiors

They plan to expand their menu once they receive a good response from the public.

The shop is located at New Number 72, Old Number 76/1,Habibullah Road, T.Nagar, Chennai – 17

Mangoes arrive late in City

2011-05-13T23:08:00.002+05:30

Mangoes arrive late in City

By P. V. Durga

Mangoes, the fruit relished the most during the summer season seem to have arrived late at local markets.
At Kavita Stores in New Bazaar in T. Nagar, the store which is run by two brothers, there were limited quantities.
One shopkeeper said that the delayed ripening of mangoes and the
Assembly elections were the cause for the late arrival of the fruit.
Owing to the late arrival of mangoes, watermelons have been selling fast

A Neighborhood Bibiliophile

2011-05-10T19:28:00.006+05:30

- By Nived S Bharadwaj (based on a live interview)

For many, their hobby would be collecting stamps or coins, but for Mr. Govindaraju (76), the passion and hobby is to collect and sell very rare books, some of which are as old as 100 years! Move over the Philatelists and Numismatists, here comes the veteran “Bibliophile”!

Mr.Govindaraju, who has been collecting books for the last 45years said his main inspiration was his father. “My father was a book collector. He used to buy and read a lot of books. After reading, he would also ask me to read and preserve the books. This way, I have managed a huge collection” Govindaraju said with a smile.

Govindaraju, who has a MA degree in Social Work and a Law Degree in Labour Matters, is also a retired Labour Law Consultant. The veteran claims that he has been moving all around Chennai to search and buy rare books. When asked about what he felt about his rare books collection, he mentioned that “These books are rare because they have rare information and not just because they are very old. This sort of information is not easily available nowadays”.

Govindaraju feels that nowadays the Electronic Media and e-Books are deteriorating the reading habit among people. “It is always better when two people talk to each other face to face, the same way reading books is an interactive process that provides a unique thrill”.
He adds “CD’s have come to narrate even very simple stories. Books have a personal touch. They don’t die. Reading builds character and makes man better!”.

However, Govindaraju feels sad that the present day generation doesn’t seem to have the habit of reading. ”The schools and parents want only academic results. They don’t want to give time for their children to read books, which are a big source of knowledge.” he said.
Overall, Mr. Govindaraju hopes things will take a turn for the better and the younger generation also realizes the huge value of reading books. He is there to help with his huge collection.

For those who share a passion for books, here are the contacts of Mr. Govindaraju:

Mr.Govindaraju
Rare Books
45/50, Second Main Road
R.A. Puram, Chennai - 600028
Telephone : 044 24936152
Email: renuka_govindaraju@yahoo.com

Summer Journalism Training Camp For Senior School Students

2011-04-15T17:29:00.002+05:30

(Open to students in high school - class 8 to 12)

DATES:
May 2 to 13, 2011. Mondays to Fridays. (Sat & Sun. are holidays.). Sessions from 9 a.m. to 10.15 a.m.

VENUE:
Mylapore Times newspaper office at Corporation Shopping Complex, Alwarpet. 2 nd Floor, 77, C. P. Ramaswamy Road. ( near the flyover)

DETAILS ON CAMP :
About Newspapers, What news is all about, How Reporters work, Interviewing people and making contacts, Gathering information, filing reports, editing, writing feature stories.. Writing for the Campus / Net. The course will be covered through lectures, interactive sessions and daily field assignments. The sessions are run by Vincent D' Souza, Editor, Adyar Times, Mylapore Times & Arcot Road Times newspapers.

Participants will have to report and file assignments from day one. These reports and photos will be posted on a blog - www.mtjclass.blogspot.com (visit this blog and get a feel of last year's work)

FEE and BENEFIT :
Fee - Rs.1000 (non - refundable). Fee may be paid in cash before camp starts or on first day at the Mylapore Times office (Ph: 2498 2244).
All participants will be given certificates. This workshop will be useful for those who plan to join a media course / wish to write or freelance / to get an introduction to journalism/media. It is co-ordinated by Vincent D' Souza,

HOW TO SIGN UP:
E-mail a short report (50words) on any recent event in your campus / or in the area where you live. If it impresses us, we will invite you to join the course. Admission starts now. Open to 12 people. Mail to mylaporetimes@vsnl.com.

Public toilet on Thiruvika Bridge

2010-07-30T15:09:00.007+05:30

By Anirudh Ramesh

The always busy and lifeline, connecting Adyar to Mylapore, the Thiruvika Bridge presents an unhygienic and a despicable picture of late with the public using it as a toilet to relieve themselves all through the day.

The corporation of Chennai and the MTC joined together, some months back and widened the road near the Annai Sathya College and constructed a bus stand, with a bus bay to ease the traffic congestion, which was the order of the day before, with buses stopping right on the middle of the road, at the entrance of the college. After the shifting of the bus stand and the bus bay, the traffic has eased to a great extent but, it has given rise to people parking their vehicles, at the entrance of the bridge, near the bus bay and using it as a (open) public toilet. This defeats the very purpose of constructing a swanky looking bus shelter, since, commuters have to put up with the stench of urine all day long.

Will the zone X corporation officials look in to this and restore the portion of the bridge that is the entrance to Adyar, to its old glory?

Another suggestion would be to construct a public toilet.

Promo films screened on beach

2010-06-18T19:31:00.007+05:30

By Anirudh Ramesh

Short films propagating the schemes of the Small Savings Department were screened recently on Elliots Beach.

Staff of this department said this was done to create awareness among the people about the various schemes and facilities provided by the State government and the Central Government.

The films were shown from 18th of May. Many people viewed them on the beach.

Besant Nagar's very own music shop

2010-06-15T21:09:00.001+05:30

Reported by Anirudh Ramesh

Five years ago, Ramesh Kumar, started a music shop 'Shridi Sairam Musical Instruments store' in Besant Nagar.
It is on Beach Home Avenue, near the Ellaiamman Kovil and the Besant Nagar MTC bus terminus.

Today, this shop is packed with all kinds of music instruments.

"My shop sells all kinds of musical instruments of genuine brands. violins, keyboards, guitars, veena, tabla, mridangam and drums are available here ", says Ramesh.

This store also provides servicing of music instruments.

One offer on now is that the shop provides the cases, stand, adaptor (for electric instruments), strings(for stringed instruments), free of cost on every purchase of a keyboard or a guitar or a violin.

The shop is open on all days of the week (including Sundays), from 10:30am-9:00pm.

All credit cards are accepted.

For further details, contact- 9444072475 or 24462632.

The address of the shop-
Lakshmi Complex, no. 1/11 Beach Home Avenue, near Ellaimman Kovil and Besant Nagar Bus Terminus, Besant Nagar, Chennai-600 090.

Tree Park comes up on Adyar River banks

2010-06-07T11:16:00.003+05:30

Reported by Sankriti Krishnan

Two years ago this land was a dump yard, highly encroached and devoid of any vegetation.

This face is changing because of a project called Tree Park, thanks to Nizhal and the state Public Works Department (PWD).

Nizhal (meaning shade) is an NGO that was started back in September 2005 with the objective of promoting tree culture in urban areas. Since then, Nizhal has been involved in various campaigns and programmes, namely – the greening of the Puzhal state prison campus, greening of the stations at Kotturpuram and Kasturbai Nagar, besides other areas.

Nizhal along with the PWD facilitated the development of a Tree Park along Adyar River bank, Kotturpuram to commemorate 150 years of the PWD. About four acres of land was cleared, fenced and around 200 different species of tropical dry evergreen forests (TDEF) / indigenous, naturalized plants and trees were planted.

During the greening process this land was divided into four sections where saplings were planted and citizens and students came to the park in the evenings to pump water from a hand pump to water the plants, to add manure and help the saplings to grow in a healthy manner.

Nizhal saw many volunteers take part in this process. Members from other NGOs like Bhumi, student volunteers from the American International School, AMM Matriculation Higher Secondary School, college students from Anna University, and members of the Youth Red Cross pitch in at different periods.

Volunteers also regularly meet at the Tree Park every Sunday evening between 4.30 and 6 p m to do their bit for the greening process. Supportive citizens of the area also provided lime juice to the volunteers who worked on the Park.

In the same park, Nizhal has tied up with a team of young landscape architects led by Satish Moses, who have provided a unique idea in urban design.

Says Shobha Menon, Founder Trustee of Nizhal “Their idea involved tying ropes in a careful design to the branches of a dead tree within the Park. The rope is firmly planted to the soil with boulders and climbers are carefully positioned so that when they grow, they do so along the rope. Over time it will form a natural green design! ”

Apart from watering the saplings from time to time, Nizhal has also adopted the idea of placing water in earthern pots in the soil so that roots absorb water from these pots. The Corporation of Chennai is proposing to develop this as a unique Tree Park for the city.

Currently, Nizhal holds a number of tree walks conducted by experts so that citizens get an idea of what kind of trees are in their neighbourhood.

In the interest of promoting tree culture in urban areas, Nizhal invites interested volunteers to help make name boards for the various saplings planted at the Tree Park on River View Road, Kotturpuram.

For further information, contact: Vaishnavi Srinivasan, Program Coordinator, Nizhal : 98408 68441

E-mail: nizhal.shade@gmail.com Website: www.nizhal.org

Physiotherapy and dance: Simy's passions

2010-06-07T11:14:00.004+05:30

By Sankriti Krishnan

Meet Simy T. A., a young woman of 27 working with special children at Vidya Sagar in Kotturpuram.

Hailing from Kerala, Simy did her schooling at Kristu Jyoti English High School and later did higher studies at M G University where she studied physiotherapy for four years.

She later did her internship for six months at S H Multi-Speciality Hospital.

“I had no idea what physiotherapy was when I started in college, but I got interested later and pursued it further,” confesses Simy.

She came down to Chennai in 2000, and has since stayed in Vidya Sagar for the past six years, where she started working with babies and then moved onto treating children with disabilities whom she wants equip so that they become independent and fit into the world better.

Simy is also a trained Western dancer. Dancing was something that came to her when she had to put up a dance show for Cancer Awareness. And so in 2002, Simy and four of her friends started ‘Studio D5’ a dance company that coaches students in styles including Modern Ballet, Jazz, Hip-Hop and Salsa.

So is her passion physiotherapy or dance?

“Physiotherapy will always remain close to my heart and so will dance!”

Ask her about her goals and she says, “ I want to travel around the globe to find a place where there are no resources so that I can help disabled children adjust to the various demands of the world."
Simy can be reached at: Vidya Sagar, No.1, Ranjith Road, Kotturpuram, Chennai-600 085. Mobile: 98407 00612

'Art of Living' yoga courses in Thiruvanmiyur

2010-06-06T21:03:00.001+05:30

By Anirudh Ramesh

The Art of Living yoga centre on Kalakshetra Road, Thiruvanmiyur, is a voulantry organization. It offers a wide range of self developement courses and yoga courses for physical and mental fitness.
The Sudershana Kriya Program is held for 6 days in a week.

There is also a free half-hour programme, everyday in the morning, from 6 a m. Membership or registration is not required and anyone can participate in this programme.

Also, every Saturday, from 5 pm to 6 pm, there is a programme for kids in the age groups of 8 - 14 years, where they will be taught some yoga asanas.

There is also a self-developement programme, that is followed by story-telling programme. Fresh batches start from June 10 for kids and on June 15 for adults .

Course in Fine Arts introduced at Besant Arundale school

2010-06-06T20:59:00.002+05:30

By Anirudh Ramesh

The Besant Arundale Senior Secondary School in the Kalakshetra Foundation campus has produced good results in its Std. 12 exams this year.

This school, is run by the Ministry of Culture, under the umbrella of the Kalakshetra Foundation.

This year, the school has introduced a new stream this time, for the students of our school. It comes under Fine Arts, and includes Carnatic Music - vocal, Carnatic Music - instrumental (melody) 3. percussion 4.painting
These courses are exclusively taught in this school.

"Any student from any Board is eligible to choose this stream", says Kalaiarasi, the principal of the school.

However, the admissions for all the classes but for a few seats in eleventh class are closed and full.

"We have also introduced the Continuous Comprehensive Assessment (CCA) from the sixth standard whereas, from classes one to five, learning and evaluation is based on various activities." she said.

The school gives equal importance to arts as it gives to science and commerce. The school re-opens on June 14.

For further information, people can get in touch with the office at 24526211

Sai Vidhyashram: School for special people in Tambaram

2010-06-05T14:44:00.004+05:30

By Sai Janani
N.G Mirunalini started a centre for mentally challenged people in 2006 at Kalidasar Street, East Tambaram to train them to help them live independently.
At present there are 18 people studying here. This centre doesn’t have an age bar and they categorize people based on their mental IQ.
They are given basic academic and vocational training skills and are taught to make candles and paper covers.
At present the training is conducted in a small outhouse.
Mirunalini says they need a larger place. People who want to contribute funds or can give them a place on rent can contact Mirunalini at No:4 Kalidasar street, Poondy Bazar, East Tambaram. Phone: 9444810610

KV CLRI school: CBSE Class X exam results

2010-06-03T09:18:00.001+05:30

By Umesh Kumar

CBSE Class X results were announced on Friday, 28th May.
From this year onwards, CBSE has come out with new grading system and so, there is no school ranks. 5 students of KV CLRI , Adyar got 10 out of 10 in this grading system.

According to R. Radhakrishnan, Principal of the school ' Grading system has eliminated 2 to 3% marking errors by the examiners. This has avoided unhealthy competition and comparison and removes stress among students."

May 28: Locating local stories and reporting them

2010-06-03T09:11:00.001+05:30

Today's ( 28-05-2010 - Friday ) class emphasised on how to plan the day's work ;
how to get the real story and how write it.

Some of the tips shared -

Be methodical - do the things in order and in systematic way

Be prepared - make note of background info before going out on an assignment.

Be smart and sharp - be curious and look beyond what you actually see.

HOW TO LOCATE A LOCAL STORY:

- The story can be anything based on your neighbourhood.

- Discover the place & explore it a little bit

- Look at the interesting angles.

- Choose the one which is challenging

- The best place for News are happening hot spots like 24x7 public places.
( Rly station, Bus stops, Religious places, School / Colleges, Beach, Exhibitions, Entertainment places etc., )

WRITING A NEW STORY:

- Write in a way that readers easily get the story.
- Mark and underline the important info you have gathered in your notepad
- The story must contains 5 Ws
( Who, What, Where, When, & Why )
- Keep te story simple & short using simple lines
- Put the most important details in the first paragraph ( also known as lead )
- Vital additional information in second para ( support lead )
- Go on to tell the story
- Recheck the story and then file.

2010-06-03T09:04:00.000+05:30

Necklace mela at Tanishq store in Velachery

2010-05-31T19:31:00.001+05:30

Tanishq the well known jewellery brand store has organised a necklace mela at Velachery.
The Tanishq showroom has a variety of necklaces of contemporary light weight collections, wedding collection, Calcutta designs, kundan work necklaces, polki and long harams.

Diamond necklaces, ruby and emerald studded neckwear of the latest designs are on display.
“The mela is to showcase the unique collection which we have for the modern woman. We also have the latest light weight ornament and wedding collections which is popular among the younger generation”, says S. R. Karthickumar, the store manager.
Chains, bangles, ear-rings, finger rings, pendants, bracelets ar also on sale here.
This shop is at Tanishq Jewellery ‎No. 36, 100 Feet Road, Velachery, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600042044 , Phone :044 - 22440100‎

Odyssey hosts games,fun and prizes for kids

2010-05-28T21:19:00.008+05:30

The Odyssey store in Gandhi Nagar has been organizing games for children in the age group of 5 -12 everyday from 2pm to 4pm.These events began on the first of May and will continue till the end of the month. Special games and activities are held on weekends that enables children to unleash their creativity and have loads of fun and chances to win great prizes. "The painting competition that was held as part of the games session was a great success and the participants had a lot of fun," said Mr.Ahmed Shakir the store manager.
The events take place at the children's toy section in the basement.For details contact 4218 7130.Odyssey is located at No:45 &47, 1st Main Road, Gandhi Nagar, Adyar.

Poor feeding

2010-05-28T20:21:00.005+05:30

By Sai Janani

Ram Ram Seva Sangam conducted a poor feeding programme on May 28 at Agasthiyar Street, East Tambaram to celebrate Kanchi Maha periyaval’s jayanthi.

The “annadhanam” started at 12 noon and the Sangam members served the meals to nearly 50 poor people in the locality.

The Sangam usually conducts this poor feeding programme on four days of every month and on special religious occasions.

The secretary of the sangam Revathi Ragunathan says that “the Sangam collect groceries or money from people who wish to contribute and the collections are given to a catering agency to prepare the food”

For more details contact Revathi Raghunathan, secretary of Sangam, 26/28. Agasthiyar Street, East Tambaram.Phone - 22391318

MAY 26th - All about W's

2010-05-27T22:37:00.000+05:30

Today, we started the session with readings of two long news reports. One on the misuse of the Pallikaranai marsh and the second on the condition of people who were affected last year by a cyclone in the Sunderbands.

Having done this, the focus was on the 5 W's - who, what, when, where, why - and how we need to seek info that answers these questions in order to write a good news story.

We also learned how to keep to a KISS - Keep it short and simple.

Class was entertaining and surely awakening and loads of fortune cookies to hold on to!

John Britto’s Dance Co. presents show on May 31

2010-05-27T22:26:00.001+05:30

By Anya Reddy

John Britto’s, since 1996, is known as Chennai’s premier dance studio. The company has performed with filmdom’s biggest stars at India’s glitziest events and has worked with the biggest names in business. And through it all, one thread has been common…their undying love of dance.

On May 31, John Britto’s company will be showing off their dancing talents in Hip-Hop, Bollypop, Ballroom Dancing and Salsa moves at Kamaraj Hall in Teynampet at a show that starts at 7 p.m.

Tickets are available at their Nungambakkam Head Office (F2, 132 A, 4th Street, Sivaram Sterling Towers, Sterling Road, Nungambakkam and at Kamraj Hall until May 29.

Counseling provided to students at Olcott

2010-05-27T21:38:00.006+05:30

Reported by Thendral.S

Students of Olcott Memorial High School in Besant Nagar who are facing family or personal or behavioral problems and are having trouble in their studies are given counseling.
"We fix an appointment and have counseling weekly thrice. The students are counseled individually. They are spoken to and are given several activities," says C. Mary the principal of the school.

Students are observed during class and if they seem to have any problem then they counseled.

They have teachers trained for counseling. One of the counseling teachers, R.Lalitha says, "We really need to provide counseling as students here don't really come from the best background. When they have problems with their parents we deal with their parents and talk to them".

Counseling is also conducted for students who have finished their schooling in that school.

2010-05-26T11:17:00.002+05:30

May 25: Interviewing Tips

By Sankriti Krishnan

The day started with the usual newspaper reading sessions but today the focus was on one article related to the Air India IX-812 flight crash. It had a large photo of a 4 year old girl who had lost both her parents in the crash and there was a report on the funeral.

We first looked at it in ‘The Hindu’.

The main focus was on the large picture that accompanied the article, which spoke more than the article did. It also spoke about the photographer’s mind - to pick the right picture to take in a very sensitive situation.

A report on the same subject from ‘The Times of India’ was also read which helped point out the contrasting differences between the two reports and the pictures.

Then we moved on to the various aspects of interviewing - we were told of tips that we need to prepare for and conduct an interview.

A mock interview was also done where we interviewed our colleague Mridula. It was an exercise to use the skills we had got to learn. All of us had to take down notes while the interview was on and we analysed our responses too.

Club in Tambaram offers coaching in kho kho

2010-05-25T20:23:00.003+05:30

Report by Sai Janani

Achme, an eight-member kho kho team based in Tambaram (The team members studied in the same school in Tambaram and they played together as team) has won many tournaments.

It has done well for the past six years.

It has now started training school and college students who wish to learn this sport. The fee is Rs.150 per month.

This team got selected twice for state level tourneys.

One of the trainers Suraj says that since they faced lots of hardships and lacked proper trainers in the locality they now want to provide good training to others.

The club plans to conduct an open tournament for schools in and around Tambaram in August.

At present they have got permission from the local municipality to train in the Gandhi Park in East Tambaram.

The players cum trainers: Suraj,Sriram,Aswin,Akilan,Pradeep,Magesh, Venkatesh,Aswin kumar.

Contact No: 8056160617

NGO to provide students with school kits

2010-05-25T17:35:00.001+05:30

Report by Sai Janani

The Ram Ram Seva Sangam, East Tambaram is organising an 'incentive' programme for the school and college level students in and around Tambaram.

The programme is to be held on May 30 at Suhasini Kalyana Mandapam at Tambaram Sanatorium at 6 p.m.

Nearly 108 students are going to receive school kits which contain two sets of uniforms, school bag, notebooks and stationery.

College students will receive cash and two special children will also be rewarded.

The chief guest is R Natraj, IPS, Head of TN Fire and Rescue Services and Nirmala Natraj will inaugurate the function.

For more details contact Revathi Raghunathan, secretary of Sangam at 26/28. Agasthiyar Street, East Tambaram.
Phone - 04422391318

May 24: How to find story leads

2010-05-25T17:32:00.000+05:30

Today's session began with the standard practice of reading the newspaper but there was a small change - we skipped stories on crime and deaths and located 'positive' leads.

This provided examples for a discussion on the usage of proper / appropriate and simple words in a report and how simple language.

This session was all about finding story leads. How, when and where can a reporter find the story. We also talked about ways to locate stories even from small things that happen in the locality.

After that, all of us were asked to look at our local maps to find a story idea. We also discussed the leads of every participant.

2010-05-25T14:56:00.001+05:30

Admissions at AMM Higher Secondary School

By Sankriti Krishnan

Admissions for LKG at AMM Higher Sec. School, Kotturpuram for the academic year 2010-2011 are open in June 2010 only against vacancy.

However, admissions for UKG – IX are over.

The names of selected students for these classes are displayed on the school notice board, said school managers.

Applications forms for class XI are to be submitted in the school office three days after the publication of class X Board exam results between 9 am - 1 pm.

The school reopens for classes UKG – IX on 7th June 2010 and for class X & XII on 3rd June 2010 for the year 2010 - 2011.

The school reopens for class XI after the admission process is completed.

For further details, contact: A.M.M. Matriculation Higher Secondary School, Gandhi Mandapam Road, Kotturpuram, Chennai - 600085. Tel: 24470629, 24474495‎

Website: www.ammschool.org

The School Office is open from 9 am to 4 pm.

Swimming Courses

2010-05-24T18:47:00.004+05:30

Ms.Naveen Doraiswamy a resident of Kasturibai Nagar conducts swimming classes at the Accord Metropolitan Hotel, T.Nagar.The courses extend for a perion of 15 days with each session lasting an hour.The classes are conducted throughout the year except during the monsoon season.They are conducted between 3 p.m. and 6 p. m.Ms. Naveen says she has fifteen years of experience as a swimming trainer.
Ms Naveen conducts these classes to help those interested in developing the skill as well as those who wish to swim to stay fit or lose weight.The courses are open to students 4 years and above. For further details contact Ms.Naveen - 9841313688.

2010-05-24T13:05:00.000+05:30

Quiet road in Kotturpuram now a busy hub

By Sankriti Krishnan

Arunachalam Road was a quiet road deep inside Kotturpuram. Well, it was once upon a time ago. But now it is the busiest in this area.

Arunachalam Road was a bush back in the 70s, home to the Chettiar community in Kotturpuram; the oldest residents here and at times, it was a site for street cricket.

Arunachalam Road became busy after the construction of the Kotturpuram Bridge over the Adyar River, as more people built their houses in this area. The bridge facilitated an easier approach to Mount Road (Anna Salai) via Saidapet.

Over the past 29 years Kotturpuram has witnessed a dramatic rise in the number of residents in the area.

Says N. Lalitha, a resident in Arunachalam Road for the last 29 years, “Back then land used to cost about forty thousand rupees… Now the rent for a house is about two lakhs!”

Says Sadhana Narayan, a new resident who previously lived in the United States, “We wanted a street that was quiet and also away from the noisy traffic. But Arunachalam Road is now a busy road!”

And now with the large community of residents, Arunachalam Road is turning out to be a busy road.

Highways to widen main road in Tambaram

2010-05-23T14:15:00.006+05:30

Report By Sai Janani

The Velachery main road at Tambaram is a key road since it provides access to East Tambaram bus terminus, the railway station and Madras Christian College.Initially the road was narrow and both sides of the road were occupied by petty shops, hotels and hawkers.

An over bridge to connect east and west sides of Tambaram is under construction.Therefore the bus terminus which was initially situated near the railway gate has now been shifted right opposite MCC college gates.This has led to congestion.

In order address this issue the Highway authorities have demolished nearly 90% of the encroachments and are under the process of extending and widening the roads. Duraiselvaraj , the road inspector of the Highways Department says that they have obtained permission to extend the road for about 1 km from the MCC end within a year.

AIMS opens centre in Adyar

2010-05-23T14:07:00.001+05:30

Reported by Umesh Kumar
AIMS, a leading coaching centre for IIT-JEE, AIEEE, AIPMT is now functioning at Adyar.

At AIMS Education, they provide coaching and train students who have desire to study in preimier institutions such as IITs.

Coaching is given for XI & XII standard students, both CBSE as well as State Board students. ( AIMS also offers foundation courses for students of class VI to X

Suresh is the Centre Manager, Adyar. The classess are conducted only on weekends. A fresh batch commences in first week of June 2010.

AIMS Education, No.25, First Floor, 29th Cross Street, Indira Nagar,
Chennai - 600 020. Phone: 9600106941 / aimsadayar@gmail.com"

Velachery Govt School excels in Higher Secondary exam

2010-05-23T10:07:00.005+05:30

Reported by B. Sakthi

The government higher secondary school at Velachery has been ranked third among the state run schools in Chennai district and was ranked first in coeducation schools. The number of students appeared for the higher secondary board exams are 288 in which 273 had tasted success.

The overall success ratio is 95 % which is an increase of 6% when compared to last year which enabled the school to possess the performance constantly.
The school topper master V.Vignesh has scored 1136/1200 in which he has secured centum in mathematics followed by R.Suraj who has secured 1126/1200 and the third position was grabbed by R.karthik who has secured 1119/1200.

Out of the 95% passed out, 11 students have scored above 1000 which was promising for the upcoming students in the forth coming school sessions.

Students of Chennai School in Thiruvanmiyur excel in Plus Two exams

2010-05-22T15:09:00.002+05:30

By R. Mridula

The Chennai School in Thiruvanmiyur ( run by Chennai Corporation) this year has shown a marked improvement from the last academic year in the Plus Two results.
The average pass in the 2008-2009 Std.12 State Board examination was 72.5% whereas the school recorded a high percentage of 89.2 which was a remarkable increase.

The school toppers include M. Gayathri who stood first from the science stream scoring 1141 marks, Anandhi. S from Commerce stream came second scoring 1051 marks and Shibina. N also from the commerce stream stood third with 1007 marks.

A lot of extra effort was put in by the school to make the students excel in the examinations.

The Principal said that special classes were conducted for the students in the morning and night from 5:30 to 7:30 and 7:00 to 8:30 respectively.

The students were categorized into three groups depending on their performance levels.

Classes were conducted continuously for 3 months from January to March.

Special contributions were also made by retired IAS officer Poornalingam who provided free biscuits for the students of class 10 and 12 attending the special class and by Sai Baba Trust who contributed free meals every Saturday afternoon.

Day 5: LOOKING BEYOND STORIES

2010-05-22T15:07:00.000+05:30

The class started off with the daily routine of reading newspapers but with a difference today as everyone got to read a para. Also while each of us read we were helped in reducing story slugs to 2 or 3 words.

Today's main task was to discover some story leads out of the news which was read by everyone and also something which connnected to our neighbourhood.

Once the reading session was done it was time to find out the different story leads which struck in everyone's mind as the news was read aloud. Gradually everyone came up with their leads and a summary of what other leads could be done from the news read was done.

Today some interesting stories like a 'Two day old baby abandoned' and 'a slum girl topping her school examination' came up.

The session mainly concentrated on the need to think out of the box and to look a little beyond the actual detail.

Tambaram 'home' shelters HIV-affected women

2010-05-22T13:17:00.014+05:30

Reported by Sai Janani HIVE Foundation in Selaiyur in Tambaram was started by J Sharon Mercy as a non-governmental and non-profit organization in the year 2005 in to help women who were affected by HIV and were neglected by their families.
Mercy says she gave these women shelter and care so that they became capable and independent.
In recent years, this organization has started different programmes and projects.

One is for children who are affected by HIV and who are left behind by their parents.Today there are 20 children who get their food,shelter and education at this 'home'.

Free medical camps and some awareness programs for the people of rural areas are also held by this NGO, It also has camps for NCC cadets and school students.

The NGO wants funds and those who wish to contribute can contact HIVE FOUNDATION: Ms.J.Sharon Mercy, 147, Secretariat Colony,Paduvencheri, Selaiyur, Tambaram, Chennai-600 073. Ph: 9382222312

New Pre-school

2010-05-22T10:19:00.003+05:30

Reported by Thendral Selvan

A new franchise of the pre-school "I Play I Learn" has recently been opened at Besant Nagar. Admissions have opened and children from the age of one and a half years are admitted.
"I Play I Learn is a national branded preschool. Our curriculum combines the best of the preschool methodologies and 'I EPICS' weave the smart teaching & learning aids.", explains Sasikala, the Principal.
For more details , contact:- I Play I Learn, E-111, 16th Cross Street, Besant Nagar. Chennai- 600 090. Phone no:- 917 66 77 907 ; 044-24910332
Website:- www.iplayilearn.in

2010-05-21T22:30:00.004+05:30

Speed Breakers or Accident Traps?

Reported by Anirudh Ramesh

Speed breakers are constructed as a safety measure, to reduce the speed of on-coming vehicles and to minimize accidents.

But, in some parts of Thiruvanmiyur and Kalakshetra Colony, speed breakers are actually posing a major risk to vehicles.

Many speed breakers are constructed in various shapes,sizes and in indefinite proportions and numbers.

More than two speed breakers in close proimity, prove to be difficult to negotiate for vehicles. Moreover, they are sometimes broken at places and are almost level with the road, which again serves no purpose.

A badly maintained speed-breaker in T.M.Maistry street.

Also, most of them are not painted yellow or defined in yellow and this poses a danger to two-wheelers and four-wheelers during night time.

The level of the speed breaker situated in Besant Nagar 4th Main Road is high. Two-wheelers and four-wheelers, find it difficult to pass over them. But, in some areas in Besant Nagar, the speed breakers are well-maintained.

A well-maintained speed-breaker in Besant Nagar 4th avenue road.

Auto Spa in Kottivakkam

2010-05-21T22:20:00.003+05:30

Reported by Natasha Sequeira

Two young entrepreneurs, Martin Gracias and Amit Tomar, both residents of Adyar, came together fourteen years ago to begin a 'used cars' business that has developed rapidly.

They have recently introduced the new concept of an auto spa to satisfy the demands of their clientele.

The auto spa offers step-by-step cleaning, restoring and protecting each and every section of a vehicle's interior and exterior finish.
There is an annual maintanence contract (AMC) available which includes six auto spa services a year, the rates differing with the car type.You can also avail a 5o% discount on their smart detail package by signing the AMC.

In addition to the auto spa, Alphazee Automobiles also has a car accessories unit that stocks car sensors, perfumes, music systems, sunscreen films, engine oils,etc.They also deal with RTO liasoning, car insurance and car services.

For further details, contact Martin Gracias - 9840067878 or Amit Tomar - 9840067809.

Alphazee Automobiles is located at No1&2 (4/575), Rajiv Gandhi Salai, (OMR) Kottivakkam, Chennai 41

2010-05-21T21:38:00.000+05:30

This clinic in Indira Nagar offers many services

Reported by H R Kartik

Dr S Sunder started his own clinic called ‘PREM CENTRE’ about 15 years ago.

The clinic has shifted to Indira Nagar's 3^rd Avenue .It is located to the left of Vijaya Bank.

It specializes in rehabilitation medicine. They also treat neurological patients by giving them pshyotherapy.

This is also a centre for slimming and for paralysis relief.

The clinic is open from 7:30am to 9:30 pm every day including Sundays,

Also there is a doctor on call who visits houses if the patient is too old to move out. This service is available in any place in the city.

Contact -4331 3333,4331 3323.

Power switched off in Medavakkam

2010-05-21T19:35:00.002+05:30

Reported by Sai janani
Cyclone Laila may have given Chennaites lots of rain but most parts of Medavakkam went without power the past few days.
Residents said there was a complete power shut down from Tuesday midnight. One resident of that area said that since it was raining the place was pitch dark and this affected daily life.
In some other parts of Tambaram the electricity wires snapped when trees fell on them and to prevent accidents, the EB office shut down the power supply.

2010-05-21T12:45:00.008+05:30

Open manholes in Thiruvanmiyur colony

Reported by Anirudh Ramesh

Heavy rains battered the city for the past 48-72 hours, as a result of a depression that was formed on the coast of Tamil Nadu, which was followed by cyclonic winds,

The rain exposed some dangers in Kalakshetra Colony and the area round it.

There are quite a number of manholes on Kalakshetra Road, Thiruvanmiyur, along the stretch of road leading to L. B. Road.
The roads were flooded and water-logged. At some places, one came across open manholes and the sewage water was mixing with the flood water on the roads, thus making it difficult for pedestrians.

The open manholes posed a danegr to two-wheelers and to passers-by, who had to wade through the water on the road during night time.

Day 4: Assignments begin!

2010-05-20T10:55:00.012+05:30

Today's class began with the usual, "early-morning" exercise for the brains, (i.e), reading the newspapers.

One participant read aloud a news report of a young IT professional who stepped into a pool of water on a rainy day and was electrocuted by a 'live' wire' that must have existed on the road. This took place in Velachery.

To test our writing skills, we were asked to jot down the facts as quickly as possible, while the reader read the report again, slowly.

Then there was a brief talk on local history and how the Britishers set up a post in Madras and started to trade in textiles. This topic was actually triggered of by the reference to Chintadripet in a news report and what 'pettai' or 'pett' means. This aside was beautifully linked to the lesson of the day without going off tangentially.

Then, an interesting assignment was given to us - think of story leads tn our neighborhood, based on Wednesday's rains. We read out our story leads and they were discussed briefly. We have been asked to report on our leads and they will be posted on this blog!

The story leads were varied - uprooted trees, power breakdown, flooded streets, garbage and sewage mixing with rainwater and polluting the area, delayed buses, open man-holes, fishermen who had to stay away from fishing . .

The day's session also touched on how a reporter works at a newspaper. Of the need for friendly contacts with people (either a policeman, watchmen, friends or colleagues) of the area ( which the reporter is assigned to) which helps in gathering information and being tipped to happenings in and around that area.

The class ended with the Adyar Times photographer taking the photos of each one of us. They will be posted on this blog.

Day 2: newspaper readings begin

2010-05-18T20:44:00.000+05:30

This is a standard practice at our camp.
Participants are invited to carry the day's newspaper to the sessions, choose a news story and read it aloud.
It helps to discuss the story idea, the content and the utility.
We started with a monsoon alert story and ended with a gruesome accident in the districts.
Each story had leads to be shared.

Most participants had done the mapping assignment and even had a few story ideas to offer.

It was also time to share a brief over view of a newspaper organisation.

There was an animated discussion on what one could photograph and when you needed to take permission to take pictures.
Participants have been invited to carry their cameras with them and take pictures of interesting and newsworthy subjects. These will be posted on the blog.

The Launch - ends with vadams and pickles

2010-05-17T20:44:00.000+05:30

Summer is peaking this May and it may not be the best time to launch a short course. But the 16 who signed up turned up on time and the launch was perfect at the Adyar Times office in Indira Nagar, Adyar.

We have school students, students who will soon be in college, a few who are in college and two young men who want to learn some new skills.
This then is a good mix.

Introductions also served to start talking about a few essential skills that we require in this profession. This done, we set the agenda for the course and the first assignment was to get every participant to map his/her immediate neighbourhood. List the landmarks and public spaces, the main road and streets and anything else that is key in the area.
The exercise would also allow the participants to get a close look at the area where they reside and perhaps help to source news stories and features.

The first exercise may also provide a starting list of possible stories which will find a place on this blog and if they are really good, be considered for publication in the 'Adyar Times'.

There was some lively banter about grandmoms making vadams on terraces and mango pickles on the weekend, summer being the season for such activity - and it seems as if we have some light story leads on our hands!

Summer Journalism Course - 2010

2010-03-09T10:00:00.005+05:30

Summer Journalism Training Course
For senior school students
(Open to students in high school - class 9 to 12)

THERE WILL BE TWO COURSES - THE FIRST IN MYLAPORE, THE SECOND IN ADYAR.

MYLAPORE COURSE
DATES: May 3 to 14 ( Mon to Fri). Sessions from 8.30 a.m. to 10.30 a.m.
VENUE: Mylapore Times Centre at Corporation Shopping Complex, R. A. Puram. Contact phone - 2498 2244

ADYAR COURSE
DATES: May 17 - 28. (Mon - Fri.). Sessions from 8.30 a.m. to 10.30 a.m.
VENUE: Adyar Times Office at Corporation Shopping Complex, 3rd Avenue, Indira Nagar, Adyar. Contact phone - 24913602

COURSE DETAILS :
This course will focus on What news is all about, How Reporters work, Interviewing skills and making contacts, Gathering information, Filing reports, writing Feature Stories, Writing for the Net, Blogging & Freelancing.
The course will be covered through lectures and daily field assignments. Media professionals will also share experiences.

Participants will have to report and file assignments daily from day one. These reports and photos will be posted on a blog - www.mtjclass.blogspot.com

FEE:
Rs. 1500 (non - refundable).
All participants will be given certificates.

WHO CAN BENEFIT
This workshop will be useful for those who plan to join a media course in college / plan to freelance / want to get an introduction to journalism / media. It is co-ordinated by Vincent D' Souza, Editor, Adyar Times, Mylapore Times & Arcot Road Times.

HOW TO SIGN UP:
Admission starts from March15. For the Mylapore-based course, drop in at the MYLAPORE TIMES office in Alwarpet to pay the fee. For the Adyar-based course, drop in at the ADYAR TIMES office in Indira Nagar to pay the fee. Only cash is accepted as fee.
For queries, please email - mylaporetimes@vsnl.com.

Summer Journalism Camp for senior students - 2009

2009-03-14T16:54:00.002+05:30

CAMP DATES : April 13 to May 1. Classes from 9 am to 11.15 am ( break for 10mins). Mondays to Fridays. Weekend Holidays.

COURSE DETAILS : What News is all about, How Newspapers are Run and all about Newspaper Organisations Information gathering, Interviewing People and Reporting.Writing reports, features and small articles.TV and radio journalism, Writing for the Net, Blogging. Writing and producing in-house magazines /newsletters / web sites.
The course will be covered through lectures and field assignments. Media professionals from media orgns. like -The Hindu, New Indian Express, BBC, NDTV, The Week, FM radio stations, will share experiences.
Participants will have to do assignments from day one and file. (Those who are irregular will be advised to drop out)

FEE : Rs. 1750/- (non-refundable). All participants will be given certificates.
This workshop will be useful for those who wish to join media courses or wish to explore this field. It is co-ordinated by Vincent D'Souza, Editor, Adyar Times, Mylapore Times & Arcot Road Times.

HOW TO SIGN UP :File a short report on any recent development in your campus / area. If it impresses us, we will invite you to join the course.
Deadline for submitting reports - April 4. Mail to mylaporetimes@vsnl.com
For clarifications, call 98410 49155

Welcome to the 2009 Course

2009-02-12T12:13:00.004+05:30

Hello and welcome!

Mylapore Times is pleased to announce its Journalism Course for 2009.

This is in the tradition that we, a neighbourhood newspaper have followed these past years.

The course is very basic and is meant for high school students who love writing or want to get a feel of journalism or intend to pursue a media course.

The course will run for three weeks, five mornings a week from mid April onwards and costs Rs.1750.

The course is designed and directed by Vincent D' Souza, a journalist since 1981, a radio broadcaster for BBC Radio and editor/publisher of two community weeklies and two web sites.

We will post more details as the days go by . . .

Those who wish to know more about the course and those who are keen to sign up can post details here below and you will hear from us.

Meanwhile, reading the posts of the 2008 batch will give you a feel of what is exciting with us!

Classroom Report / Final Day

2008-05-09T22:17:00.002+05:30

By Shreya Viswanath

We started our last day of the summer Journalism Course with the daily newspapers.
Each of us had to scan the papers and look for something useful for us. An advert or a notice or an event or an article,
We shared our thoughts on this.

Resource person Vincent D' Souza gave us some tips on how to scan the newspapers, locate key and useful news leads and info and spoke on the importance of 'being informed'.
We ended this session with 'Open House' where each of raised questions and cleared our doubts.
We have ended the camp with an idea - a new blog site to be started by three of our fellow classmates.
They plan to focus on Thiruvanmiyur, south Chennai.
So, this course on the 'Basics of Journalism', which ran for 20 days, two hours every day, has come to an end.

Planetarium screening film on 'cosmic world'

2008-05-08T15:28:00.003+05:30

By Shreya Viswanath

Three claps, silence, lights off.
You hold your breath as the cosmic world revolves around you – twinkling stars, shooting meteoroids, the rotating solar system and the undulating contours of the red planet, Mars.
The spectacular show is a great experience that almost makes you feel one with the sparkling universe.
Welcome to the latest show at the Periyar Science and Technology Center in Kotturpuram.
There is a Science Center and a planetarium here. There are eight galleries on themes related to Physical Science, Transport, Electronics & Communication, Energy, Materials Science, Life Science, Innovation, International Dolls and Children, with over 500 exhibits of the interactive variety, makes a visit to the Center a thoroughly enjoyable and enlightening experience.
The planetarium is home to the most modern, sophisticated and versatile GM II projector. The accompanying special effects projector, recreates some of the most awe-inspiring heavenly phenomena on the specially perforated aluminum inner dome.
This planetarium is fully computerized and seats 236 at any given time.
Timings for cosmic shows in the planetarium - in English: 10.45 a.m., 1.15 p.m. and 3.45 p.m. In Tamil, the show timings are 12 noon and 2.30 p.m.
Once you are done with the show, take a stroll down the Science Park. It provides a mix of interactive exhibits.
Equally impressive is the Traffic Park that keeps you abreast of the latest road safety measures.
Then there are the energy and eco parks to explore.
Get acquainted with the working utilities of solar energy, wind energy and bio-gas in the energy park. An entire forest has been simulated in the eco park - water, plants, life models of animals, the lion, tiger and deer - these are the crowd-pullers.
The Meteorological Observatory might well be the answer to most of your queries on the celestial phenomena.
If you have not visited this campus before, do it this summer.
The Science and Technology Center is open on all days except on national holidays, from 10 a.m. to 5.45 p.m.
Location - Tamilnadu Science & Technology Center, Gandhi Mandapam Road (behind CLRI campus). Phone: 91-44 - 24410025 / 24416751 / 24915250

Place in adyar to learn Western classical music

2008-05-06T20:00:00.001+05:30

By Varsha S.

The 3Bs School of Music in Adyar teaches students how to play western classical guitar,keyboard and the piano. The school also teaches the students the theory of western music and prepares students for the exam for various diplomas conducted by Trinity College,London.
This school is called 3Bs school after the three great German maestros - Bach, Beethoven and Brahms.
This school is managed and run by Ahlauyu Soosheel v’naiud. R. Venkatasan who is Ahlauyu’s husband and Bobby Shankar, Ahlauyu’s father.
The school was started 2 years ago.At present there are about 100 students from age groups 4 to 60.
Many bank employees, people who work in private companies, IIT students and even IAS officers learn music here.This year they are not having any summer courses.
The fees: the fee scheme varies according to each grade the student is in.
For beginners, it is Rs.1000 for four classes a month. Apart from this, there is nominal payment for the books.
For further information, you may contact: Ahlauyu at 42114171.
Address - 27/14, Karpagam Gardens 1st Main Road, Adyar, Chennai - 20

Personality Development course for Teenagers

2008-05-06T15:39:00.004+05:30

By Priyanka Bhat

Parents of children between the age group of 15 to 18 years may have to start thinking about their children's future, and the first essential quality a person should have is a good 'personality'.

One place which conducts personality development courses is JKL Foundation, Kalakshetra Colony. JKL Foundation is conducting its last course for this summer from 15th May. This course will continue up to 25th May.
The course will be held from 10.00 a.m. to 2.30 p.m.

A batch will have 20 participants. "The objective of the course is to enhance various personality skills in the participants and to make them effective leaders," says M. K. Janardhanan who is the founder of the Foundation and also theinstructor for the course.

Group discussion and goal setting are some of the activities conducted during the course. On the last day (25th May) there will be a workshop for parents on 'good parenting'.

The fee is Rs.3000. The address is - LakshmiKrishna, 50/43, Ground Floor, Rukmani Street, Kalakshetra Colony, Besant Nagar, Chennai-41. The contact numbers are 421 51583.

Books sale in Thiruvanmiyur

2008-05-06T15:32:00.001+05:30

By Priyanka Bhat

An exhibition of books is on at Sri Vidya KalyanaMandapam,
L. B. Road, Thiruvanmiyur. The exhibition will continue up to May 8.

There is a collection of more than 3000 titles. The books are
of different topics - history, management, healthcare,politics
etc. There is a separate section for children.

The books range from Rs.20 to Rs.2000. Some of the books
are usedbooks imported from USA and UK.

The organiser of the extibition, K.Ravi (9840617939) said
that every day more than 200 people visit the exibition and the
number goes up to 400 visitors during the weekends.

Classroom Report / May 5

2008-05-06T11:35:00.002+05:30

By Mayuri Srinivas

We got back to class after a weekend holiday. Resource person Vincent D' Souza asked us to share anything interesting we had experienced the past two days.

Shreya narrated her experience in attending a summer job interview.
Varsha talked about her experience at the IPL cricket match at Chepauk.
Manasa told us about her outing to Citi Centre. And Krithika mentioned about her three-day tour of Kerala and of spending the night on a houseboats in the backwaters of Alleppey.
In a way, these exchanges led us to the topic of the day - writing for the pullouts and magazine sections in newspapers and working for magazines.
It also led on to a discussion on how we could start publishing on our own via the Internet.
Since there are three participants who reside in the Thiruvanmiyur area in south Chennai, D' Souza suggested they could start a blog for that area.
The three, Bharathi, Priyanka and Manasa seemed enthusiastic.
They will be working out the strategy out soon.
D' Souza said that a Net enterprise would turn out to be a good follow-up to this course.
On Tuesday, we will visit the NDTV's Chennai office in CIT Colony and learn about TV journalism.

Free buttermilk for parched throats

2008-05-05T14:38:00.004+05:30

By Mayuri Srinivas

Those who pass through Dr. Ranga Road in Mylapore may notice a small shamiana put up on the pavement and a group of volunteers hard at work here. Well, the group is rendering a small service this summer.

These people are volunteers of Shri Sai Baba Trust based at 'Sundaram', off Chamiers Road. They have been distributing buttermilk to the passersby so that people can be refreshed.
With mercury shooting above 40 degree Celsius, ordinary people who cannot afford to pay for ice creams and fruit juices, relish this free offer of buttermilk.
Pedestrians, elderly people, rickshaw-pullers, courier boys and labourers stop at this stall and enjoy the drink. The place is crowded but there is sufficient stock of buttermilk.

The volunteers say that this summer service has been going on for about 15 years at the very same place.
The volunteers run it through May every year.
Everyday, two donors pay for making about 500 litres of buttermilk - to be served in two sessions - from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. and from 11 a.m. to 2 p. m. There are about 5 volunteers who help in serving the buttermilk.

The buttermilk is home-made by the donors. The donors have to register themselves at the 'Sundaram' office. The volunteers who serve the buttermilk take turns to render service through May.

Caring for Squirrels

2008-05-02T20:55:00.006+05:30

By Sameeksha Asher

Subhashini Raghavan loves animals.
For many years, this resident of Gandhi Nagar, Adyar has been a volunteer at a city animal shelter place. For the past five years, she has been taking care of sick, injured or 'lost' squirrels

Subhashni adopts baby or handicapped squirrels and looks after them. “Squirrels aren’t supposed to be tamed. We can look after them for 3-4 months but later we have to set them free. It would be cruel to domesticate these animals as they are part of urban wildlife,” says Subhashini. However if a squirrel is handicapped one can look after it for a longer time, she adds.

Subhashni was in touch with Clarisa Summers of Texas, USA who guided her on taking care of squirrels and giving them medical aid. Now Subhashini also guides people who wish to look after these animals.

So is it easy to take care of squirrels?
Subhashni said that baby squirrels are very friendly and don’t bite. However for the first two weeks it’s very important to feed them every four hours. As they grow old they are easy to manage. Also they should be let free in a room for at least 2 hours a day: otherwise they start biting.

“It is easy to take care of squirrels for a few months. They do not bite if you don’t harm them. We don’t even have to bathe them! They are very friendly creatures,” says Subhashni.

Currently, she has encouraged a small group of women volunteers to take care of squirrels. Since Subhashni is on the verge of 'retirement' she suggests that people can call Kritika (who also takes care of squirrels) in case they want information on squirrels or want to adopt them.
Kritika’s phone number is 98406 14053

SUN TV Office in Mandaveli

2008-05-02T13:45:00.002+05:30

By Mayuri S.

Sun TV has now moved its production unit to Fourth Trust Cross Street, Mandaveli.
The quiet street has now become a busy one with cars and bikes zipping in and out of this campus. It is said the productions are handled from this premises.

Earlier this building was Admiralty Hotel. Then, there was a colony.
Later, it was converted into marriage halls and offices.
It is said that Sun TV will have its own headquarters in MRC Nagar.

Sishya student group reaches out to less abled children

2008-05-02T12:26:00.005+05:30

By Sameeksha Asher

Recently, a group of students from Sishya School, Padmanabha Nagar had indulged in social work. A few students in Sishya are active social workers for Little Hearts, an organization which helps mentally challenged children.

Philomena Bennet, a teacher in Sishya along with a few enthusiastic students decided to set up a fund raiser. They decided to have an entertainment programme for the 'Little Hearts' children. This event was sponsored by the Sishya parents. There were 30 children present from ‘Little Hearts’

The function was held at St. Teresa's Church Hall, Nungambakkam (opp. Ispahani Centre) on April 15. Before the show started all the children were treated to snacks and fruit drinks.
The show started at 5.30pm. First there was a short introduction which dealt with the issue of the problems these children face and how they can be helped. The senior Sishya choir sang a few songs.

Next up, Adithya Prasad, Sishya's very own magician entertained the crowd with his magic tricks. Adithya's English had to be translated into Tamil so that the children could follow.
After this to there were piano recitals. This was followed by solos by Kaveri Narayanan and Neha Mathen. The show ended with a vote of thanks by Philomena Bennet.

The children had a great evening. Provisions were donated to Little Hearts. "We thank Philomena ma'am and our sponsors (the parents) for giving us this opportunity to do something for such less fortunate children. It was a wonderful and satisfying experience," says student Neha Mathen.

Journalists Colony playground under renovation

2008-05-01T19:51:00.007+05:30

By Bharathi Yegnanarayanan

A triangular playground in Journalists Colony, Thiruvanmiyur is being re-developed.Two sections have been created.One half of the ground is going to be used for conducting social and community functions.Says the colony society's treasurer, A. Muthupandian,"We needed space to hold functions like Republic Day and Independence Day events. The other half of the ground is to be a play area for kids."The children's play area will also have playthings.A covered stage has been constructed.Walk paths will also be laid and benches will be set up.

Classroom Report / April 30

2008-04-30T20:55:00.006+05:30

By Bharathi Yegnanarayanan

Today's class started with the daily newspapers.We were asked to go through the newspaper and see whether something in them triggered a story idea we could work on. Some of us struggled and the ideas did not 'sell'.Meenaxi said she would go down to Elliots Beach in the morning and meet up with members of the Frisbee Club and the Laughter Club.Shreya has lots of stories to offer- one was to follow up on a plan to have park in Kotturpuram on the Adyar river bank.

Sameeksha had two story ideas - one on a lady in Adyar who takes care of injured squirrels and gives them in adoption and another on a lady who does designer clothes and tailors them too.I suggested that I would follow-up on a report that fishermen in Thiruvanmiyur were offering cattamaran rides in the sea to beach-goers on weekends to make some quick money and also write on a re-laid park.These exercises challenge us to come up with story leads quickly.
Mayuri was assigned a story on the closure of a century-old post office.'The Hindu' reported it on the front page this morning and Mayuri was asked to visit the office and file a story.

Resource person Vincent D' Souza then spoke about the position of a a reporter in a newspaper/ media organisation and the opportunities he / she has there.He suggested a web site we could check out. The URL- www.poynter.org. Though this site is based in the USA and is useful for professional journalists, the site also has content for media students.Some of us have had our reports published in 'Adyar Times',the weekly community newspaper for the Adyar area(e-mail - adyartimes@gmail.com).D' Souza said he would consider using some more if the reports we filed were good.

Classroom Report / April 29

2008-04-30T14:44:00.000+05:30

By Shreya Viswanath
Our day today started with the daily newspapers.We were asked to go through the newspaper and see if any headline, news story or picture gave us inspiration for a new story we could do on our own. There was a discussion of these ideas.Later, we had a mock interview session. This was a followup to a lecture on 'Interviewing Skills' given the previous day.Kaveri Murthy, a classmate was interviewed by the rest of us about the trekking expedition trip she was going to go on in May.
Later, we had a guest in the classroom - Mythily Ramachandran who is a free lancer. She has been writing for over ten years. She shared with us her experience. She told us about a few of her stories which were unusual and how she enjoyed writing them. She split us into three groups for an activity to teach us again the importance of valid questions during an interview. The activity was to frame a set of questions for three differnt people.The first group had to set questions for a celebrity; group two for a lady fire officer and group three for a person who has just got out of a drug addiction.You can contact Mythily at myram86@yahoo.com

Summer Classes in Alwarpet

2008-04-30T12:05:00.002+05:30

By Mayuri S.

C. P. Art Centre at Alwarpet is conducting summer courses for children from April 21 to May 9.

The courses are on art and craft, Tanjore paintings, Karate, Yoga and music.
Participants are divided into two age groups namely 5 to 10 years and 11 years and above. Fees for courses vary.
C. P. Art Centre is at 1, Eldams Road, Alwarpet, Chennai -600018.
Phones: 24341778 / 9444073008

Yoga, meditation classes

2008-04-29T20:33:00.001+05:30

By Priyanka Bhat

If you looking for a place where you want to relax your mind
and body this summer then Tejas Health Center is the place
to check out.

The staff here teach yoga techniques and welcome school students
too. They also teach meditation methods to people of all age groups.

Sessions are held between 6.30 a. m. and 12 noon and from
2.00 p.m. to 7.00p.m.

The address is 83, 7th street, Venkateshwara Nagar, Kuppam Beach
Road, Kottivakkam. The contact number is 9283297432.

Art classes at Kottivakkam library

2008-04-29T20:23:00.002+05:30

By Priyanka Bhat

BookMark Lending Library which is at Lakshman
Perumal Nagar, Kottivakkam is conducting summer
classes in drawing
and painting.

One can choose from any of the six summer classes that
are conducted - Warli Art, Silver Flower work, Painting
on Canvas Board, Greeting Card, Spray Painting and
Rice Painting.

Classes will be conducted on Mondays, Wednesdays and
Thursdays. Timings are negotiable. But standard timings
followed at the camp are 10.30 a.m. -12.30 p.m.

The classes go on till mid-June. For more details contact
9840270131 (or) 98843174

Police put up 'warning' boards on Thiruvanmiyur shore

2008-04-28T19:52:00.004+05:30

By Bharathi Yegnanarayanan

Police patrol has been appointed in the Thiruvanmiyur beach to reduce the high risk of drowning. A notice board has been put up on the beach in this area to warn the public on the dangers ofswimming here.However,last weekend this reporter saw many people going out into the sea.Senior citizens who reside in this area feel that instead of notice boards,warning the public througha mike system would be effective. Some others say that life-saving accessories must be kept at manyplaces so that they can be used in times of danger.Local police said that they are always on duty along the shore and keep an eye on young children who get into the water.They said that they are doingtheir best.

Classroom Report / April 25

2008-04-28T19:08:00.001+05:30

By Priyanka Bhat
Today, we had a guest to talk to us.
R. Revathi is a sub-editor who works for the web site, www.kutcheribuzz.com. It is a web site for classical music and dance.
Revathi had taken a look at our work on our blog - http://www.mtjclass.blogspot.com/ - and she wanted to show us how we could improve our contribution and as how we should write for web sites.
She told us the rules which should be followed when writing for the web. For example, we must no write all the letters in capitals. There are certain etiquette rules that one must follow here.
Revathi also showed us things we could do on the Net. Places to which we could contribute articles / comments / queries.
She also spoke on blogs. How to choose a theme for a blog, how to make it interesting, how to upload pictures /videos. Here is one sample of storytellers with audio clips and the domain to sign up and upload free audio and link to blog. Example - www.thestorytellersblog.blogspot.com
Revathi also pointed to opportunities to write on the web - at web sites like www.pappyrusclubs.com. www.yocee.in, www.writersintheschool.org.
One can contact Revathi at mailrevathi@gmail.com.

Book Sale in Alwarpet

2008-04-28T15:12:00.003+05:30

By S. Mayuri
Sabhari Book House and Stationery in association with 'Ananda Vikatan' publications is conducting a book fair at the Niligris store complex ( opp. Spencer's Daily store) on C. P. Ramaswamy Road, Alwarpet, Chennai 600018.
The fair is on from May 20, 2008.
The books are on fiction, literature, science and education. There are also books in Tamil.
Discounts of 10 to 20% is offered.

More people use MRTS station in Mandaveli

2008-04-28T15:04:00.003+05:30

By S. Mayuri
This MRTS station in Mandaveli located at Sringeri Mutt Road is fast becoming popular among commuters of Mandaveli, R A Puram and R K Nagar areas.
Employees of BPOs and IT companies located at Tidel Park and Velachery are among the people who take trains from this place.
Train services are between Chennai Beach and Velachery.
When the train facility was only up to Thiruvanmiyur, it was less popular but now with the facility extended upto Velachery the station is crowded at office-going hours.
The train services start from 04.15 a m and the last train is at 10.15 p m both ways. The frequency of trains is 20 minutes on all days.
One hundred and twenty three trains run through this station everyday. The rush hours are between 7 a m and 9 a m and 6 p m and 8 p m.
Even though the station is functional the building is incomplete.
The installation of escalators is underway.
Flooring, painting and other civil works are yet to commence.
There are many entrances for easy access for the neighbourhood residents.
Once the building is complete there is a proposal to let out the premises for shops for books, snacks and beverages.

Garbage burnt in Gandhi Nagar, pollutes colony.

2008-04-26T12:01:00.003+05:30

Report and photos by Sameekha Asher

Of late, garbage and garden waste is being dumped on the road side in Gandhi Nagar.
On April 25, at about 1 p. m, garbage was being burnt on 1st Crescent Street. This creates a lot of air pollution and also fogs the road a little.
Excess burning of garbage releases air pollutants such as carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides.
These pollutants can cause diseases such as bronchitis in children and cancer of trachea.
The residents on 1st Cross Street are disturbed by the burning of garbage and the pollution it causes. They request the local Chennai Corporation office to take some action.

Free Upanayanam

2008-04-26T09:39:00.002+05:30

By Bharathi Yegnanarayanan
Free Upanayanam is to be conducted at Amara Barathy Kalyana Mandapam, #12, West Tank Street,near Sri Marundeeswarar Temple.It is organised by the TN Brahmin Association, Thiruvanmiyur.It is to be held on May 18.For further details contact the office of Sri Sankara Matriculation Higher Secondary School, B-34, 51st Cross Street,Thiruvalluvar Nagar, Thiruvanmiyur.(behind South R.T.O).Contact number: 2441 6525

New Store in R.A.Puram

2008-04-25T12:38:00.003+05:30

By Mayuri S.
R. A. Puram has a new store - it is called Ocher World.
This boutique is run by the wife of film actor Rajnikanth, Latha Rajnikanth. In an area of about 1500 square feet, this store has variety of things under one roof. It stores utility stuff like key chains, handbags, pens, dolls and portraits. It also stocks sarees, salwars and other dress materials for women. There also bedspreads, pillow covers, sofa covers, curtains and home furnishing.Apart from these, the shopper can also pick up foodstuff like cakes, cookies, sweets and traditional home-made items like appalams and pickles.
This store is at 41, First Main Road, R. A. Puram, Chennai 600028. It is open between 10 a. m. and 8 p. m.

Report Day 8

2008-04-24T19:28:00.006+05:30

FIELD REPORT: April 23
By S. Mayuri
This morning was different from the nature of classes we had so far.
Our 'chief', Vincent D' Souza, wanted us to have a first hand knowledge on getting story leads in the field.
For this purpose we assembled at Annai Velankanni Madha Church, Besant Nagar at 9 am.We missed one of our class mates, Varsha, as we were informed that she was unwell.
We assembled in front of the book store of the church campus. Our first exercise was to make a note of all we had observed around us.Then, we went around the campus with the objective of finding stories.
We regrouped again after 15 minutes, made our presentations and deliberated on the story leads we had gathered.We then walked down Elliots Beach road - the intention was to find story ideas as we looked around.
While we were walking, there was a minor accident - the dupatta of a girl who was on the back seat of a cycle which was used by a girl, got caught in the wheel.
On seeing this we rushed to help her. We successfully removed the dupatta from the chain but the chain system needed some attention. While we were helping the girls, others who passed by just stared and went their way.
Just there, while we were discussing more story ideas near a parked car, some thing dropped on the car - it was a part of a dead rat dropped by a flying crow.

We realised how things just happened if you cared to observe.
We were also briefed about the local area, the development over the years and the things that took place on the beach.Each could be a good news story to report.

Bird-watching camp at IIT-Madras

2008-04-24T18:44:00.002+05:30

By Kaveri Murthy

Prakriti Wildlife Club of IIT-Madras is conducting the annual birdwatching programme for campus children of ages 6 and above. The programme starts on May 7 and ends on May 13
This year, Prakriti has decided to club the birdwatching programme with the Crocodile Bank's initiative for a two-day 'introduction into reptiles' programme if there are enough people who are interested.
This programme is for children of ages 10 to 16 years. The fees for the Crocodile Bank programme is Rs 1500 while the birdwatching is free
For enquiries or to register, e-mail to prakriti@iitm.ac.in

Summer Camp for children at the IITM Campus

2008-04-23T20:01:00.002+05:30

By Kaveri Murthy

Tech-Kids Day Care cum Activity Centre of the IIT-Madras campus is organising a 15-day summer camp for children of ages 5 to 14 years.

The activities to be taught are aerobics, practical science, general knowledge, drawing and craft, yoga, health and hygiene, music and dance, road safety rules, storytelling and drama. The camp begins on May 5 and it goes on till May 23, excluding weekends.

The children will be divided into two groups - the first group is for children of ages 5 to 8 years and the activities are from 9.30 a. m. to 12 noon and the second is for children of ages 9 to 14 years and the sessions are from 9.30 a. m. to 3 p. m.
The last date for registration is 30th April 30. For enquiries, call 22579426.

Rock Concert in Adyar

2008-04-23T14:19:00.003+05:30

By Sameeksha Asher

On April 18, Friday the Unwind Center in Gandhi Nagar hosted a series of was rock concerts of performing bands. There were four bands this week namely, Virtual Vegan, Grey Shack, Junkhead and Substance.
The entry ticket was Rs.100.

Virtual Vegan, a two member band started the show with a song from Porcupine Tree called ‘Life is Beautiful’. They went on to sing ‘Dust in The Wind’ and ‘Temple of the King’ by Rainbow. Being a two member band their music was mostly acoustic. A gentle start to a rock show!

The crowd was on its feet when Grey Shack started playing. Though this group was formed only six months ago, it has a number of original compositions. They played ‘Plastic’ and ‘Beautiful Man’. As the concert progressed, people started coming in at the Unwind Center.

Rohan, the lead singer would entertain the crowd a little with jokes between songs.
The crowd (still on its feet) sang along and cheered the band. There were many young boys and girls in the hall but it was hot inside - one assumed the air-conditioning was not working.

Next there was a quiz on rock music and bands but the crowed lost interest in it. This was followed by a drum solo by Chris.

'Junkhead' and 'Substance' were the bands to play last. The show was wrapped up by 9.45pm. This was a entertaining rock concert except for the fact that it got really hot inside and people sweated it out.

The Unwind Center holds rock concerts every Friday.
Unwind Center, #67, 3rd Cross rd, Gandhi Nagar, Adyar.
Ph: 99410 05949, 65379572

Classroom Report / Day 7

2008-04-23T14:11:00.002+05:30

By Sameeksha Asher

Today, each of us stood up and read out the news reports we had chosen.
Every report was discussed.
Vincent D' Souza was the resource person.
A few common questions were: what’s the focus of the report, when did it occur, where did it occur and what information is provided/ what we learn from it.
Again, we came across an instance of how two city-based newspapers had reported on a crime of a torso found in a pond in North Chennai. On report mentioned the body was of a teenager, the other said it was of a man.
In the next session, we had to go through the map we had created of our neighbourhood and find ways in which we would cover it like a 'beat'.
We were supposed to jot down names of public places, private places and interesting people in our locality.
This was to prepare the group for sustained reporting. From Thursday, we will have to file a report a day.
So we discussed ways in which this could be done.
Three ways were suggested.

spot reports - report an accident or a community event or a show.
Reports based on places. Check out local libraries and health centres, the beach or local police station.
Reports on people. They could even be a woman who makes and sells pickles from her house or of a professor who has a cacti garden.

Today’s class aimed at helping us recognize the potential news stories in our locality and how to go about reporting them.
On Wednesday, the group meets at the Annai Velankanni Church in Besant Nagar. We will walk around in the area and try our hand at locating stories and may even have to do one on the spot.

Life Style Supermarket in Thiruvanmiyur

2008-04-22T21:56:00.004+05:30

By Bharathi Yegnanarayanan

If you live in Thiruvanmiyur and want to locate a store that will deliver provisions and basic needs at your doorstep, check out Life Style Supermarket in Thiruvalluvar Nagar.

The store has different sections.Stationery items, plasticware, home care products, spices, snacks, beverages, pickles and jams, instant food items, fruits and vegetables, baby care and pet care items and lots of provisions. There is a separate section for bakery food.

The owner of this supermarket is R. Ramesh.The main branch of this store is in Adyar. This store has been running for 3 years. The free home delivery is provided to residents of the local area.
Life Style Supermarket, Thiruvalluvar Nagar, Thiruvanmiyur, Chennai-600 041.
Contact Numbers: 4218 1171 / 2442 0024

Classroom Report / April 21

2008-04-22T21:32:00.001+05:30

By Manasa G. Rao

The reading of the day's newspapers has been enlightening.
We were able to spot many mistakes in the reports.
In one case the report on one incident in two different newspapers mentioned the name of the hospitals differently.
We also got to know places in the city we didn't know.
Reading the news reports is one way of learning a lot.
Today's lecture by Vincent D' Souza was on how reporters work on a 'beat'.
A beat is a regular coverage of a particular area or field assigned to a reporter. Be it police, entertainment, health, civic issues, education, etc.
We got to learn what happens on a 'beat' and the advantages of a beat system.
We looked at how a reporter on the Crimes and Law and Order 'beat' does his work.
Tomorrow, we will be looking at how we can create a 'beat' in our area in order to report the news well.
On Wednesday, we plan to explore a part of Adyar on foot to try and learn how stories are generated.

New Gopuram of Sri Marundeeswarar Temple will be ready in May

2008-04-22T21:30:00.007+05:30

By Bharathi Yegnanarayanan

The kumbabhishekam of the new gopuram of Sri Marundeeswarar Temple in Thiruvanmiyur will be held from May 21 to 23.This information was given by the temple officers.

The new gopuram (on the eastern side of this famous temple)whose construction was suspended some years ago, is being constructed afresh.The project was taken up in July 2007.
Temple officials say the entire project is being co-ordinated by the Friday Committee Members. S.Rajan is the chairman of this committee. The project is supported by industrialist Pollachi Mahalingam.

The new gopuram is about 85 feet in height. The workers spend about 10 hours a day working on it.
The path leading towards the temple is made up of special granite. About 75% of the work is finished, said the engineer on the site.The painting work is under progress.The engineer said that the work would be completed before May 20.

The kumbabishekam will take place between 9 a. m. and 10:30 a.m. Special rituals are going to take place right from May 21. Devotees are invited to witness this pooja and receive prasadam.
Arulmigu Marundeeswarar Temple is in Thiruvanmiyur,Chennai - 600 041.

T. P. Ekambaram is the Executive Officer.

Contact Number:2441 0477/ 2442 2688

Star Supreme – The shoe shop with a difference!

2008-04-22T16:06:00.003+05:30

By Meenaxi Palaniappan

This tiny shoe shop, tucked in a little corner on the 2nd Avenue, Besant Nagar, cannot be seen unless you are looking for it. However, Mr. Abdul Khader, the owner of this shop, says that he could not be happier with the location. His customers are mostly local school and college girls who frequent the shop to buy the latest styles of footwear, which he diligently changes every 3 months. His secret to success lies in his astonishing ability to display flawless replications of some of the most fashionable styles, barely weeks after they enter the market, at almost 25% of the cost. 'My policy is less profit, more turnover' says Mr Abdul Khader, in response to being asked how he manages to sustain such low prices.

This 11 year old shop thrives on recurrent customers, who get benefits like regular discounts and lower pricing than the new customers. Star Supreme shoe shop is located at E33, 2nd Avenue, Besant Nagar, Chennai-90 and it is open between 10 AM and 8 PM on all days.

Novel way to ward off 'nuisance'

2008-04-22T16:00:00.004+05:30

By Meenaxi Palaniappan

S. Aravanmudham, residing at house no. T 42/B, 7th Avenue, Besant Nagar has found an innovative way to check the nuisance of people using his compound wall as a toilet. He says he had to put up with the offensive odour and the nuisance of people dirtying his compound wall for many years.

Now, he has come up with a novel idea to address this problem.His compound walls are now embossed with pictures of gods like Jesus Christ, Lord Ganesha and other religious symbols.These pictures seem to inhibit people from answering Nature's call here.

Minor accident in IIT Campus

2008-04-21T21:15:00.001+05:30

By Kaveri Murthy

A man riding on a bicycle with an elderly woman on the rear seat crashed on Delhi Avenue road in IIT-Madras on April 18 evening.
The two were admitted to the IIT Hospital, with the woman suffering a severe nosebleed. The man was not badly injured.

The cause of the accident is not yet known though unconfirmed information had it that a scooter had collided with the bicycle.

'Home' for senior citizens in Tiruvanmiyur welcomes donations

2008-04-21T17:50:00.004+05:30

By Priyanka Bhat

If you have spare money, don’t waste it on movies or on pizza parties. Instead, you could donate that money. One place which accepts such donations is 'Kaakkum Karangal' in Thiruvanmiyur which is an 'old age home'.

The founder-trustee of this 'home' is Gnanaraj. 'Kaakkum Karangal' was founded in 1992 with five other units across Tamil Nadu.

The 'home' in Thiruvanmiyur houses about 10 men and 30 women at 11, East Mada Street, Thiruvanmiyur, Chennai-41. This is a rented place.

One can help 'Kaakkum Karangal' carry out its mission by donating not only money but also clothes, provisions, vessels and medicines. One can donate any time between 8.00 a.m. and 8.00 p.m. on any day of the week.
Bala Murugan is the manager. In order to contact this 'home', dial 2441 5433 (or) 2440 1825.

Besides this 'home' in Thiruvanmiyur, there is also an orphan children 'home' called 'Centre for the Cradle Children' which is managed by the same trustee.
It is at No.6, Railway Border Road, West Mambalam, Chennai-41. The contact no. is 2372 4456.

MASH – A cosy restaurant in Besant Nagar

2008-04-21T16:40:00.001+05:30

By Meenaxi Palaniappan

Besant Nagar welcomes yet another addition to the array of restaurants in the area. MASH enjoys a perfect location bang opposite the Elliot's Beach. The contemporary ambience is aesthetically pleasing. Smokers have an option of dining in the open veranda which has a splendid view of the sea.
The menu states that, MASH was started by four friends who were really hungry for good food. It includes breakfast options, soups, pasta, meat, seafood, vegetarian food and desserts.
While some of the diners considered the portions to be small in quantity all of them agreed that the quality of the food was good. A common gripe expressed by customers was the slow service although the hospitality is warm.
The 'Mud Pie' is a highly recommended dessert for chocolate lovers and the 'Burn Me On' is the most popular dessert with the health conscious. An average meal for two costs around Rs.400 and the restaurant is open from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m.
MASH is located at T-54B, 1st Floor, 6th Avenue, Besant Nagar, Chennai. For reservations call - 45511555 or 99620 03300

Florist in Kottur Gardens gets new look

2008-04-21T16:23:00.008+05:30

By Shreya Viswanath

Tulips, the florist in Kottur Gardens, got a face lift after fourteen years in business. The shop opened in 1994.
Tulips is a unit of the A. D. J. Agro Exports (P) Ltd., and is owned by Jayaprakash.

Known for the exquisite floral arrangements, it delivers bouquets even at addresses in select cities in India.
Tulips get its wide range of flowers from Hosur.

It does floral arrangements for weddings, parties and social functions.
They deliver in this city between 8 a.m. and 8:30 p.m. and charge a fee of Rs.30 for every 5 km. covered

They also undertake landscaping and have recently launched a collection of pillows.
The shop is open from 8 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.

The address - #2, Link Street, Kottur Gardens, Chennai-600 085.
Tele Fax: 2447 4763

Classroom Report / Day Five

2008-04-20T14:43:00.003+05:30

By Meenaxi Palaniappan

Now a routine practice, the day started with the students reading reports from the newspaper. The first report, read by Bharathi Narayanan was an interesting story about the robbery at the Sri Kapaleeswar temple on the night of April 17. An article read by Krithika Malini, titled 'Adopt an unusual pet' from the Deccan Chronicle was interesting but ambiguous. Taking this as an example, the resource person, Vincent D' Souza advised us to ensure that our writing is clear and to the point. The second portion of today's class was focused on the lesser known departments of a news organization. We got to learn about the advertising and business departments of a news organization. We had a discussion on unusual modes of advertising like distributing free samplers along with the newspaper, 'scratch and win' offers, coupons that can be cut out of the newspaper, etc. D' Souza showed us the difference in the way a big, local story ( the robbery at Sri Kapali Temple, Mylapore) was presented in three different newspapers ( The Hindu, Times of India and The New Indian Express), which helped us understand the importance of designing a newspaper attractively. He also explained the way a newspaper designer works and promised to organise a trip to a newspaper office/press. D' Souza spoke on the production departments of a newspaper and on the Internet department which manages their online editions.

Classroom Report / Day Four

2008-04-20T09:25:00.003+05:30

By Krithika Malini S

The class started at around 9:00 am. First we started of with the routine activity of selecting news from the day’s newspaper. After each person completes there would be a small group discussion on it. After the reading session Mr. Vincent D Souza explained to us about how the news organization works. Firstly the chief reporter, his assistant and the correspondent is in charge of all the field work. He also mentioned that all news could not be covered or published in the newspaper, only major robberies and accidents were to be published. The very important quality of a reporter is to be eager about collecting news and publishing it. Every reporter has certain area of responsibility which is called “BEATS”.
Mr.Vincent also spoke to us about the difference between a correspondent and a reporter. The major difference was that because of experience the correspondent is engaged in writing special stories while the reporter is deals with field work. He concluded by saying that to be a journalist it needs a lot of hard work and energy. After this we had a small talk about field work for the day and ended the day’s class.

Eatery in Valmiki Nagar

2008-04-19T23:10:00.001+05:30

By Manasa G Rao

Yet another eatery has opened in Valmiki Nagar.
Mr. Kupps is a new restaurant on Ist Seaward Road.
It offers a variety of food items ranging from simple, spicy sandwiches to lavishly stuffed burgers.
Suresh owns the shop.
There are a few special offers - like the 'Kids Meal' which costs Rs.65, the 'Couples Offer' for Rs.75.
This eat-out also has special offers for students like the 'Student Burger' which costs just Rs.25.
A full meal at Mr. Kupps is priced at Rs 129.
They also have beverages which includes soft drinks, lemonade and soups.
For starters they offer French Fries, nuggets, fingers and Smileys. The shop is open from 5 p. m. to 11 p. m. on all days.
Mr. Kupps is located at 7, (on the roof top), 1st Seaward Road, Valmiki Nagar, Thiruvanmiyur.
Contact cell phone nos. - 9962225757 / 9962225756