On October 4, 1957, the world’s first satellite, Sputnik 1, was launched into the cosmos. Greta, who was 17 at the time, got home from school on the tram and in her imagination leafed through a magazine of do-it-yourself sewing patterns. She had peeked at the magazine earlier, over the knees of her classmate Dasha (despite Greta’s importuning, Dasha had refused to lend her the magazine, even for one night). In the kiosk next to the tram stop, a Komsomol member of about 50 grew obsolete. She wore a red beret and was using a sharp pencil to solve a crossword puzzle for experts.
Greta placed two coins on the counter and received in return toffee with the taste of soap, and an orange postage stamp illustrated with a satellite. The stamp, which had been distributed throughout the country, perpetuated the gap between the Soviet Union and the United States in the space race. Greta returned home following her shopping, to an apartment that had been nationalized d ue to the housing shortage. Its three flats had been divided among three families who insisted on not getting along with each other. The stairwell was inhabited by a drunk who was always about to die. Greta smiled at the drunk like a girl who has a future and gave him her toffee. She put the glossy stamp in a small envelope next to a ring from the czarist period, which she had received as an inheritance from her grandmother, and slid it under her goose-down pillow.
On the agenda was an argument about the best way to pickle cucumbers and cabbage leaves. From there the way was short to personal jibes. Yulia Andreiva scolded Nadia Yaruslavna for it being inconceivable that Gennady, Nadia’s husband, did not clean the toilet bowl after he, pardon the expression, took a crap. Before Nadia could fire back at Yulia and tell everyone exactly what her husband did while she went to the market, the radio announcer declared in a faint voice the good news from Moscow: a live passenger was capable of surviving a launch into orbit and enduring weightlessness. Everyone applauded and Greta felt embarrassed for having received the national holiday in a checked yellow robe and messy hair. Afterward she paused to think and decided that the honorable thing to do would be to buy another stamp, this time with a likeness of Laika’s profile. Greta placed the new acquisition in the drawer of her desk at school and decided that it would be her amulet for getting good marks, so that when the time came she would be admitted to medical school.
Owing to a shortage of connections with members of the socialist party, Greta managed only to get admitted to evening studies in economics and commerce. Parallel to her studies, she started to work as a salary accountant in a screw factory. Married engineers, who had striped hankies in their pants pockets, invited Greta for black tea and a dry cake in the cafeteria. Greta did not want to fall in love with any of them. She preferred to remain free and not expand the pile of laundry in her tub, which she did by hand. Her only dress, a brown dress made of cheap material, and her underwear, by now gray with age, were immersed in the tub’s murky water every week. Through the thin walls in her room Greta had learned how couples make love. She herself had undergone the experience only once, when she was 12, with a stuffy-nosed urchin from a parallel street. In exchange she got a loaf of dry bread.
2012年4月27日星期五
2012年4月26日星期四
CEMENCO Erects US$20M New Plant Answers Vision 2030 Delegates' Pollution Concerns
Without the slightest idea that Vision 2030 delegates, concerned about the health hazard CEMENCO brings, would call for its relocation from Monrovia to Bensonville, the local cement giant disclosed yesterday evening that it was erecting a new US$20 million "state-of-the-art" cement manufacturing plant.
The new plant, according to Counselor James Doe Gibson, is due to be completed and ready for operations by December this year. It will answer all the pollution concerns anybody in the area may have about cement fumes polluting the densely populated surrounding areas, including Jamaica Road, New Georgia, Freeport community, etc.
The Daily Observer personnel had just left the closing session of a two-day National Visioning Consultation in New Georgia, in Montserrado County's District 13, where delegates had raised the alarm about the cement fumes emitting hourly from CEMENCO's plant, causing a great health hazard to the people of the surrounding area. The delegates called for CEMENCO's immediate re-location to some distant place within Montserrado. They named Bensonville, ancestral home of the Tolbert and other Montserrado families.
The delegates complained that the cement fumes were affecting the eyes of many local residents, and causing people to contract cataracts. The delegates said the best solution was the relocation of the plant to a place where there would be enough space and not too many people, and Bensonville or some other rural community in Montserrado would be best suited for the move.
One delegate, addressing the Consultation in the Gabriel Kpoleh Public School in New Georgia, cautioned his colleagues that CEMENCO provided a lot of jobs and income for the community and a re-location of the company could lead to economic disaster for the area.
Another delegate wondered whether an alternative solution could not be found, so that the plant would remain in its present location, but with the pollution "minimized."
Delegates said if that were possible, then that could be a solution to the problem.
En route from the Consultation, Daily Observer personnel called CEMENCO's Accounts Manager, Ms. Waito Davis, a Tigress from the Booker Washington Institute (BWI), and informed her of the Vision 2030 delegates' concerns about the company's pollution problem.
It was at that point that Mrs. Davis quickly informed the Daily Observer that there was absolutely no need to worry. She then disclosed that the company was erecting the brand new plant that would definitely take care of the pollution problem.
"We ourselves who work here are at risk, and the company knows that," she told the Daily Observer. "So the company is building this new plant that will take care of all the pollution problems," she added. She then suggested the newspaper contact the company's Administrative Manager, Counselor James Doe Gibson, for further clarification.
It was Cllr. Gibson that told the newspaper of the cost of the new factory, US$20 million, which he described as a "state of the art" plant. It would, he said, "eliminate all the pollution we currently experience from the old plant currently in use." That plant, he told the newspaper, "is over 40 years old and causing us a lot of money. The fumes you see in the air during operations, is nothing else but cement. Each speck of the fumes is cement that we are losing. The new plant would cut out those losses completely, save us money and maintain a clean environment," Counselor Gibson asserted.
He added, the new plant is being constructed very near our cafeteria. If it were not pollution-free we would not be placing it there," he said.
As to the Vision 2030 delegate's suggestion that the plant be re-located to Bensonville, Cllr. Gibson such a move would make a bag of cement "very costly. You're talking about a price escalation of over US$25 per bag," he said. "That would be too costly for anybody."
Counselor Gibson then told the newspaper that cement factories throughout West Africa are situated around ports. The reason: it is far cheaper to move your clinker and other materials from a nearby port than from elsewhere.
"It costs us US$33 per truck to transport our clinker, the main ingredient for cement manufacture, from the Free Port of Monrovia. If we had to bring it from Brewerville, the cost per bag of cement would be US$20. That would be prohibitive. It would be even costlier transporting it to a further distance, such as Bensonville," he added.
Counselor Gibson assured the Vision 2030 delegates and the entire Liberian public that CEMENCO is well aware of the pollution problem, a problem which, he emphasized, would soon be a thing of the past.
The Vision 2030 District 13 delegates had one more major pollution concern. The Daily Observer will bring this and other concerns to the public in subsequent stories beginning tomorrow.
The new plant, according to Counselor James Doe Gibson, is due to be completed and ready for operations by December this year. It will answer all the pollution concerns anybody in the area may have about cement fumes polluting the densely populated surrounding areas, including Jamaica Road, New Georgia, Freeport community, etc.
The Daily Observer personnel had just left the closing session of a two-day National Visioning Consultation in New Georgia, in Montserrado County's District 13, where delegates had raised the alarm about the cement fumes emitting hourly from CEMENCO's plant, causing a great health hazard to the people of the surrounding area. The delegates called for CEMENCO's immediate re-location to some distant place within Montserrado. They named Bensonville, ancestral home of the Tolbert and other Montserrado families.
The delegates complained that the cement fumes were affecting the eyes of many local residents, and causing people to contract cataracts. The delegates said the best solution was the relocation of the plant to a place where there would be enough space and not too many people, and Bensonville or some other rural community in Montserrado would be best suited for the move.
One delegate, addressing the Consultation in the Gabriel Kpoleh Public School in New Georgia, cautioned his colleagues that CEMENCO provided a lot of jobs and income for the community and a re-location of the company could lead to economic disaster for the area.
Another delegate wondered whether an alternative solution could not be found, so that the plant would remain in its present location, but with the pollution "minimized."
Delegates said if that were possible, then that could be a solution to the problem.
En route from the Consultation, Daily Observer personnel called CEMENCO's Accounts Manager, Ms. Waito Davis, a Tigress from the Booker Washington Institute (BWI), and informed her of the Vision 2030 delegates' concerns about the company's pollution problem.
It was at that point that Mrs. Davis quickly informed the Daily Observer that there was absolutely no need to worry. She then disclosed that the company was erecting the brand new plant that would definitely take care of the pollution problem.
"We ourselves who work here are at risk, and the company knows that," she told the Daily Observer. "So the company is building this new plant that will take care of all the pollution problems," she added. She then suggested the newspaper contact the company's Administrative Manager, Counselor James Doe Gibson, for further clarification.
It was Cllr. Gibson that told the newspaper of the cost of the new factory, US$20 million, which he described as a "state of the art" plant. It would, he said, "eliminate all the pollution we currently experience from the old plant currently in use." That plant, he told the newspaper, "is over 40 years old and causing us a lot of money. The fumes you see in the air during operations, is nothing else but cement. Each speck of the fumes is cement that we are losing. The new plant would cut out those losses completely, save us money and maintain a clean environment," Counselor Gibson asserted.
He added, the new plant is being constructed very near our cafeteria. If it were not pollution-free we would not be placing it there," he said.
As to the Vision 2030 delegate's suggestion that the plant be re-located to Bensonville, Cllr. Gibson such a move would make a bag of cement "very costly. You're talking about a price escalation of over US$25 per bag," he said. "That would be too costly for anybody."
Counselor Gibson then told the newspaper that cement factories throughout West Africa are situated around ports. The reason: it is far cheaper to move your clinker and other materials from a nearby port than from elsewhere.
"It costs us US$33 per truck to transport our clinker, the main ingredient for cement manufacture, from the Free Port of Monrovia. If we had to bring it from Brewerville, the cost per bag of cement would be US$20. That would be prohibitive. It would be even costlier transporting it to a further distance, such as Bensonville," he added.
Counselor Gibson assured the Vision 2030 delegates and the entire Liberian public that CEMENCO is well aware of the pollution problem, a problem which, he emphasized, would soon be a thing of the past.
The Vision 2030 District 13 delegates had one more major pollution concern. The Daily Observer will bring this and other concerns to the public in subsequent stories beginning tomorrow.
2012年4月25日星期三
Corri McFadden On House Of Consignment Episode 9: Warehouse Sales And Ta Ta's Closet
Episode nine featured the warehouse sale for charity, I wish this episode was longer because I could have watched this forever, it was so fun to see how fast-paced that day was.
I know, that episode needed to be like three hours. Actually, it could have been forty-five minutes long because that's how long it took to sell out.
How did that even come to be?
We get a lot of items that either didn't sell or people say "Just donate it for me," and we started getting a lot. So I got a warehouse and we would just box it all up with the intention of doing some kind of sale, but we didn't know what. I had been saving all these items for a year, and when the show came about, I thought it was perfect. We'll pull it all out, we'll do a charity sale, and my boyfriend had just built the Greek Hellenic Museum, it hadn't even opened yet when we had the sale, and it was the perfect venue for it. I wanted to do a bag sale because I didn't want people shopping for items, I just wanted the stuff gone and we just wanted to raise money for charity. There were 15,000-plus pieces and I was like, what are we going to do with all the leftovers after the sale? The last thing I want to do is box it all up again and move it back into storage. At the end, there was one single glove left on a table at the end. We did a morning news piece the day before the sale and they showed off what we had, Armani, Chanel, just things that didn't sell, and the next owning I got a call from the police at about 7:30 to tell me I had a line over the freeway.
How many people actually got in?
I would say probably about seven hundred. We raised over $12,000 in forty five minutes. That money went to the Primo Center, which is a group that benefits underprivileged women and children in the city. The day before the sale, a group of women came in and we styled them and outfitted them with new wardrobes, so that in itself was rewarding, those women were glowing. It was awesome.
Do you wish you raised the price so you could have earned more money?
No, I don't think so. At the end of the day it was about raising what we could and clearing out merchandise that had no home. We're going to make it an annual event now.
Let's talk about Nicole, because things start to get a little tense with her this week.
She was negative the whole time we were planning the event. She was convinced it was going to be a failure, she thought we'd have to truck people in and that no one would come to the sale.
Did you know she felt that way and was saying things behind your back?
I didn't. She wasn't voicing any of that to me. I had several complaints that she wasn't helping and that I should send her home, we were all working hard, but she was off doing her own thing. The only time anything clicked for me what the one time I put on the headphones and was listening to her film a scene that day, that was the only time I ever did this all season, and I heard her tell Jena "We need to clean up that table…You know how Corri is," and I was like, Oh my God, you're undermining me and you don't even believe in this event. You need to be on board!
Let's talk about LaToiya's closet clean.
LaToiya lived in a very small house and she has stuff from high school — HIGH SCHOOL — she had so much stuff. And she had her alter ego Ta Ta. She was so much fun. She was great, we confirmed for her that some handbags that an ex had given her were fake.
What's the general reaction when someone finds out their stuff is fake, does that happen a lot?
It's a mixed bag. For instance, yesterday we did a closet clean in someone's home and all the bags were fake. But when the client called, they told us they had all this Gucci and Louis and we got there and it was all fake. And we don't want to offend anyone but you have to explain this to the client. And we also don't want them taking it to another outlet to get rid of it. It shouldn't be sold. And she's claiming Neiman Marcus ripped her off. I'm like, what Neiman Marcus are you going to? So you get a lot of that, and then you get people who had no idea. When your husband gives you something, you're not running off with a diamond tester, you assume it's real, so no one wants to hear that their items are fake, but a lot of people know. If you knew the back end of counterfeiting, it's really dirty, but luckily the government is taking a harder stance on it. But we have to check every single piece that comes through. Authenticity is something we harp on and are working on every day.
I know, that episode needed to be like three hours. Actually, it could have been forty-five minutes long because that's how long it took to sell out.
How did that even come to be?
We get a lot of items that either didn't sell or people say "Just donate it for me," and we started getting a lot. So I got a warehouse and we would just box it all up with the intention of doing some kind of sale, but we didn't know what. I had been saving all these items for a year, and when the show came about, I thought it was perfect. We'll pull it all out, we'll do a charity sale, and my boyfriend had just built the Greek Hellenic Museum, it hadn't even opened yet when we had the sale, and it was the perfect venue for it. I wanted to do a bag sale because I didn't want people shopping for items, I just wanted the stuff gone and we just wanted to raise money for charity. There were 15,000-plus pieces and I was like, what are we going to do with all the leftovers after the sale? The last thing I want to do is box it all up again and move it back into storage. At the end, there was one single glove left on a table at the end. We did a morning news piece the day before the sale and they showed off what we had, Armani, Chanel, just things that didn't sell, and the next owning I got a call from the police at about 7:30 to tell me I had a line over the freeway.
How many people actually got in?
I would say probably about seven hundred. We raised over $12,000 in forty five minutes. That money went to the Primo Center, which is a group that benefits underprivileged women and children in the city. The day before the sale, a group of women came in and we styled them and outfitted them with new wardrobes, so that in itself was rewarding, those women were glowing. It was awesome.
Do you wish you raised the price so you could have earned more money?
No, I don't think so. At the end of the day it was about raising what we could and clearing out merchandise that had no home. We're going to make it an annual event now.
Let's talk about Nicole, because things start to get a little tense with her this week.
She was negative the whole time we were planning the event. She was convinced it was going to be a failure, she thought we'd have to truck people in and that no one would come to the sale.
Did you know she felt that way and was saying things behind your back?
I didn't. She wasn't voicing any of that to me. I had several complaints that she wasn't helping and that I should send her home, we were all working hard, but she was off doing her own thing. The only time anything clicked for me what the one time I put on the headphones and was listening to her film a scene that day, that was the only time I ever did this all season, and I heard her tell Jena "We need to clean up that table…You know how Corri is," and I was like, Oh my God, you're undermining me and you don't even believe in this event. You need to be on board!
Let's talk about LaToiya's closet clean.
LaToiya lived in a very small house and she has stuff from high school — HIGH SCHOOL — she had so much stuff. And she had her alter ego Ta Ta. She was so much fun. She was great, we confirmed for her that some handbags that an ex had given her were fake.
What's the general reaction when someone finds out their stuff is fake, does that happen a lot?
It's a mixed bag. For instance, yesterday we did a closet clean in someone's home and all the bags were fake. But when the client called, they told us they had all this Gucci and Louis and we got there and it was all fake. And we don't want to offend anyone but you have to explain this to the client. And we also don't want them taking it to another outlet to get rid of it. It shouldn't be sold. And she's claiming Neiman Marcus ripped her off. I'm like, what Neiman Marcus are you going to? So you get a lot of that, and then you get people who had no idea. When your husband gives you something, you're not running off with a diamond tester, you assume it's real, so no one wants to hear that their items are fake, but a lot of people know. If you knew the back end of counterfeiting, it's really dirty, but luckily the government is taking a harder stance on it. But we have to check every single piece that comes through. Authenticity is something we harp on and are working on every day.
2012年4月19日星期四
Gucci Returns to Shanghai with Fashion Show and New Campaign
Gucci's Creative Director, Frida Giannini, is taking the iconic fashion house back to China on April 21 with three exclusive events.
In the morning, Giannini will host a cocktail reception at the Wai Tan Yuan, during which Gucci's new campaign—starring Li Bing Bing—will be revealed. The campaign is dedicated to the brand's handbags, jewelry and watches, and features both classic accessories as well as new styles.
In the evening, Wai Tan Yuan will play host to Giannini's first fashion show in China. She will present the Fall/Winter 2012-2012 collection to 600 specially invited guests. Notable attendees will include Hilary Swank, Lapo Elkann, Bryan Ferry, Li Bing Bing, Yang Mi, Huo Si Yan, Chen Kun, Feng Shao Feng, Peng Yu Yan and Wu Zun.
Following the fashion show will be a private party at a location designed exclusively for the event. The Gucci Club will span three floors and feature Gucci Premiere evening gowns from the Florentine archive, including the couture dress Hilary Swank wore to the 2011 Oscars. Bryan Ferry will take the stage for an exclusive performance, followed by a DJ set by Isaac Ferry.
In the morning, Giannini will host a cocktail reception at the Wai Tan Yuan, during which Gucci's new campaign—starring Li Bing Bing—will be revealed. The campaign is dedicated to the brand's handbags, jewelry and watches, and features both classic accessories as well as new styles.
In the evening, Wai Tan Yuan will play host to Giannini's first fashion show in China. She will present the Fall/Winter 2012-2012 collection to 600 specially invited guests. Notable attendees will include Hilary Swank, Lapo Elkann, Bryan Ferry, Li Bing Bing, Yang Mi, Huo Si Yan, Chen Kun, Feng Shao Feng, Peng Yu Yan and Wu Zun.
Following the fashion show will be a private party at a location designed exclusively for the event. The Gucci Club will span three floors and feature Gucci Premiere evening gowns from the Florentine archive, including the couture dress Hilary Swank wore to the 2011 Oscars. Bryan Ferry will take the stage for an exclusive performance, followed by a DJ set by Isaac Ferry.
2012年4月18日星期三
D11 Responds To Gang, Gun Rumors Out of Wasson High School
Wasson High School officials conducted a random bag check after a school fight caused rumors about gang violence and weapons at school.
The fight happened Thursday, and district officials said only a small number of students were involved.
Some parents told KRDO Newschannel13 they were upset about the checks and not being informed about the possible gang and weapons activity.
District 11 officials say the bag checks were done at random, and that after Wasson's investigations the rumors were determined to have no validity.
"It is not our intention to cause any kind of uncomfortable atmosphere. We wanted students, parents and staff to feel safe," said Devra Ashby, the district's spokesperson.
Students were also gathered in an assembly and reminded by administration that there is a "no tolerance" policy for weapons in school.
Also, district officials said that each school has the right to conduct random bag check of students is safety is deemed to be an issue.
The fight happened Thursday, and district officials said only a small number of students were involved.
Some parents told KRDO Newschannel13 they were upset about the checks and not being informed about the possible gang and weapons activity.
District 11 officials say the bag checks were done at random, and that after Wasson's investigations the rumors were determined to have no validity.
"It is not our intention to cause any kind of uncomfortable atmosphere. We wanted students, parents and staff to feel safe," said Devra Ashby, the district's spokesperson.
Students were also gathered in an assembly and reminded by administration that there is a "no tolerance" policy for weapons in school.
Also, district officials said that each school has the right to conduct random bag check of students is safety is deemed to be an issue.
2012年4月17日星期二
Takashi Murakami on Junk Food, Warhol, Napping
Takashi Murakami does things in a big way.
For an exhibition in Doha, Qatar, he designed a Gulliver-sized inflatable replica of himself, its giant, calloused hand extended to greet entering museumgoers.
"Children, adults, families — I want to bring everyone into my world," Mr. Murakami says.
For the last 24 years, he has strived for that. The 50-year-old artist and entrepreneur draws freely from Japanese pop culture to create work that is both critically and commercially successful. His handbag designs for Louis Vuitton resulted in a now-ubiquitous best-seller. For Kanye West's 2007 album "Graduation," he designed an anime-inspired cover. His work has shown at Los Angeles's Museum of Contemporary Art, France's Chateau de Versailles and the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao.
His Doha show, "Murakami-Ego," revisits many of his best-known themes, including otaku, or geek, culture, and his own "Superflat" aesthetic that merges high and low culture. Kaikai and Kiki, two cartoonish, grinning characters that are well-known to Murakami fans, make an appearance, but one highlight is new: a 100-meter panel with Buddhist monks, drawn in the traditional nihonga style Mr. Murakami was trained in.
"Murakami-Ego" also critiques Japan's response to last year's nuclear crisis and what Mr. Murakami considers the country's sour mood. "Right now, Japanese people are very low," he says.
For an exhibition in Doha, Qatar, he designed a Gulliver-sized inflatable replica of himself, its giant, calloused hand extended to greet entering museumgoers.
"Children, adults, families — I want to bring everyone into my world," Mr. Murakami says.
For the last 24 years, he has strived for that. The 50-year-old artist and entrepreneur draws freely from Japanese pop culture to create work that is both critically and commercially successful. His handbag designs for Louis Vuitton resulted in a now-ubiquitous best-seller. For Kanye West's 2007 album "Graduation," he designed an anime-inspired cover. His work has shown at Los Angeles's Museum of Contemporary Art, France's Chateau de Versailles and the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao.
His Doha show, "Murakami-Ego," revisits many of his best-known themes, including otaku, or geek, culture, and his own "Superflat" aesthetic that merges high and low culture. Kaikai and Kiki, two cartoonish, grinning characters that are well-known to Murakami fans, make an appearance, but one highlight is new: a 100-meter panel with Buddhist monks, drawn in the traditional nihonga style Mr. Murakami was trained in.
"Murakami-Ego" also critiques Japan's response to last year's nuclear crisis and what Mr. Murakami considers the country's sour mood. "Right now, Japanese people are very low," he says.
2012年4月16日星期一
Thailand hosts the world's biggest water-fight - the Songkran Festival
On April 13, 14 and 15 each year, Thailand celebrates its New Year with Songkran, a traditional festival that falls in the hottest time of the year and involves the throwing of water.
Unlike many of the most prominent supposedly religious traditions celebrated in western society, (Easter eggs evolved from a Pagan ritual to become the hallmark of a Christian celebration and Father Christmas is modeled on a character in an old Coca Cola commercial) Songkran has remained relatively unchanged for hundreds of years and has always involved the throwing of water.
It's a much-loved local tradition, and all of Thailand's 60 million inhabitants get involved, plus a few million "farangs" who fly in for the fun. If you've neglected nurturing your inner child, there's nothing quite like a water fight to bring junior to the fore.
Believe it or not, these images were captured in one of the less crazy parts of Songkran in Bangkok - they were taken from the safety of the Australia Bar in Soi 11 Sukhumvit and I didn't stray much outside the bar for fear of what would happen to my gear.
Ice cold water is an entirely different matter though, and you will remember getting doused with close-to-freezing water.
The action gets going around midday, though it's entirely possible to find yourself on the wrong end of a bucket of water at any time during the three days of the festival, regardless of the hour of day.
I was amazed that my cameras didn't get soaked, but as I became more immersed in the spirit of the festival and a little braver, I realized that some sanity actually does prevail and from time-to-time, when someone caught me outside the confines of my safe haven, they were quite considerate about the cameras - though there was no mercy for the body or my clothes.
In such circumstance, it's best to just hold the cameras above your head and "cop it." If you look through the images you'll see women holding their Gucci handbags above their head while they are drenched.
I saw several people spared a thorough dousing during the three days - one was on crutches with a leg in plaster, one was an elderly woman, and another was in a wheelchair.
With the sudden rise in popularity of smartphones over the last two years, many of the casualties of last year's Songkran apparently involved dead Android and iOS devices. I came prepared with a spacial bag I'd purchased in a camping store overseas - it cost me US$50.
Entrepreneurialism is alive and well and living in any Asian country though, and this year there were dozens of vendors walking the street selling high quality (with ziplock and fold) plastic bags which were very similar to the one I'd brought with me, though at 30 baht (US$1.00), somewhat cheaper.
Unlike many of the most prominent supposedly religious traditions celebrated in western society, (Easter eggs evolved from a Pagan ritual to become the hallmark of a Christian celebration and Father Christmas is modeled on a character in an old Coca Cola commercial) Songkran has remained relatively unchanged for hundreds of years and has always involved the throwing of water.
It's a much-loved local tradition, and all of Thailand's 60 million inhabitants get involved, plus a few million "farangs" who fly in for the fun. If you've neglected nurturing your inner child, there's nothing quite like a water fight to bring junior to the fore.
Believe it or not, these images were captured in one of the less crazy parts of Songkran in Bangkok - they were taken from the safety of the Australia Bar in Soi 11 Sukhumvit and I didn't stray much outside the bar for fear of what would happen to my gear.
Ice cold water is an entirely different matter though, and you will remember getting doused with close-to-freezing water.
The action gets going around midday, though it's entirely possible to find yourself on the wrong end of a bucket of water at any time during the three days of the festival, regardless of the hour of day.
I was amazed that my cameras didn't get soaked, but as I became more immersed in the spirit of the festival and a little braver, I realized that some sanity actually does prevail and from time-to-time, when someone caught me outside the confines of my safe haven, they were quite considerate about the cameras - though there was no mercy for the body or my clothes.
In such circumstance, it's best to just hold the cameras above your head and "cop it." If you look through the images you'll see women holding their Gucci handbags above their head while they are drenched.
I saw several people spared a thorough dousing during the three days - one was on crutches with a leg in plaster, one was an elderly woman, and another was in a wheelchair.
With the sudden rise in popularity of smartphones over the last two years, many of the casualties of last year's Songkran apparently involved dead Android and iOS devices. I came prepared with a spacial bag I'd purchased in a camping store overseas - it cost me US$50.
Entrepreneurialism is alive and well and living in any Asian country though, and this year there were dozens of vendors walking the street selling high quality (with ziplock and fold) plastic bags which were very similar to the one I'd brought with me, though at 30 baht (US$1.00), somewhat cheaper.
2012年4月15日星期日
Ron Dzwonkowski: Helping hands never leave shopping trips empty-handed
"So," he says, the planned yard work washed out by weather, "you want me to go grocery shopping with you?"
She rolls her eyes, not having budgeted for this. But knowing he will carry the bags and return the bottles, she says, "Sure."
Decades ago, when first they met, he worked in a grocery store and, while conventional suitors brought candy and flowers, he would often surprise her with frozen shrimp or jumbo eggs. But in the years since, she has wisely assumed responsibility for food and preparation of same, sending him to the store only in emergencies -- and with a specific list.
This trip, her concern begins when he parks at the north end of the lot, meaning they will enter the north door of the big-box store and must traverse acres of hardware, auto parts and team apparel to get to the groceries at the south end, where she always starts -- and finishes.
Not a frequent shopper, he notices for the first time that every item no longer has a price.
"You," she says, "wrote a column that it was OK for Snyder to sign that bill."
He drops a multi-head socket wrench with a built-in flashlight into the cart. And batteries.
"You're always going to need these," he says.
In fact, for him, this store is full of such things -- batteries of all sizes, paper towels, light bulbs, candles, tarpaulins and Spam -- that will be essential in the event of nuclear war and "might as well get while we're here."
She is "here" every week and knows that "here" is 10 minutes from home and open 24/7.
Filling up the cart
And so begins the dance -- he flips things into the cart, she waits until he is distracted by yet another shiny object and takes things out. He is especially enamored of paper towels, for they have strong manly names -- Bounty, Brawny -- and can be thrown like a football, two steps right, pump fake to Mr. Clean, then zip it into the cart for the game-winner in the Ty-D-Bol! As he raises his hands to signal six points, she slips the pickled okra back onto the shelf.
With little concept of the resources required to actually prepare the meals he consumes, he is drawn to food that looks new and interesting, or that he can't remember not liking.
She remembers, and in between selecting what's needed for her careful, balanced meal plan, she murmurs, "You tried that and didn't finish it. ... You swore you'd never eat that again" as he surveys varieties of sardines, obscure foreign delicacies and pickled anything. The ice cream freezer, which she cannot avoid passing on the way to frozen peas, is for him a land of wonderment.
"When did they start making this flavor? That's a Michigan brand; we have to support the state. ... What about for company? There's room in the freezer," and, finally, "It doesn't go bad."
At least she knows that the ordeal is almost over, for ice cream melts and must be hastened home. He pushes the cart behind her on the way to the checkout, adding creamed herring, a few kiwis and newfangled potato snacks of sea-salt/mustard flavor. He also recaptures the pickled okra and adds pickled Brussels sprouts.
The clandestine goods
At the cashier, he occupies her with sleazy magazine covers as the clandestine goods move along the conveyor. As she pays the bill, a good $40 more than usual, he is already headed briskly to the north exit, for it is at least a mile walk to the car.
Back at the home front, he does indeed unload the bags. But he cannot be much help with the putting away, for he has no idea where most of it goes. He takes the paper towels to the basement, where eight other rolls fill a shelf next to batteries of all sizes. "Hah!" he thinks, "Let the Russians come!"
Upstairs, she struggles to close the freezer door, blocked by a brick of cherry vanilla. And with a sigh she puts the pickled okra in the pantry, next to the jar he bought the last time she let him come along.
She rolls her eyes, not having budgeted for this. But knowing he will carry the bags and return the bottles, she says, "Sure."
Decades ago, when first they met, he worked in a grocery store and, while conventional suitors brought candy and flowers, he would often surprise her with frozen shrimp or jumbo eggs. But in the years since, she has wisely assumed responsibility for food and preparation of same, sending him to the store only in emergencies -- and with a specific list.
This trip, her concern begins when he parks at the north end of the lot, meaning they will enter the north door of the big-box store and must traverse acres of hardware, auto parts and team apparel to get to the groceries at the south end, where she always starts -- and finishes.
Not a frequent shopper, he notices for the first time that every item no longer has a price.
"You," she says, "wrote a column that it was OK for Snyder to sign that bill."
He drops a multi-head socket wrench with a built-in flashlight into the cart. And batteries.
"You're always going to need these," he says.
In fact, for him, this store is full of such things -- batteries of all sizes, paper towels, light bulbs, candles, tarpaulins and Spam -- that will be essential in the event of nuclear war and "might as well get while we're here."
She is "here" every week and knows that "here" is 10 minutes from home and open 24/7.
Filling up the cart
And so begins the dance -- he flips things into the cart, she waits until he is distracted by yet another shiny object and takes things out. He is especially enamored of paper towels, for they have strong manly names -- Bounty, Brawny -- and can be thrown like a football, two steps right, pump fake to Mr. Clean, then zip it into the cart for the game-winner in the Ty-D-Bol! As he raises his hands to signal six points, she slips the pickled okra back onto the shelf.
With little concept of the resources required to actually prepare the meals he consumes, he is drawn to food that looks new and interesting, or that he can't remember not liking.
She remembers, and in between selecting what's needed for her careful, balanced meal plan, she murmurs, "You tried that and didn't finish it. ... You swore you'd never eat that again" as he surveys varieties of sardines, obscure foreign delicacies and pickled anything. The ice cream freezer, which she cannot avoid passing on the way to frozen peas, is for him a land of wonderment.
"When did they start making this flavor? That's a Michigan brand; we have to support the state. ... What about for company? There's room in the freezer," and, finally, "It doesn't go bad."
At least she knows that the ordeal is almost over, for ice cream melts and must be hastened home. He pushes the cart behind her on the way to the checkout, adding creamed herring, a few kiwis and newfangled potato snacks of sea-salt/mustard flavor. He also recaptures the pickled okra and adds pickled Brussels sprouts.
The clandestine goods
At the cashier, he occupies her with sleazy magazine covers as the clandestine goods move along the conveyor. As she pays the bill, a good $40 more than usual, he is already headed briskly to the north exit, for it is at least a mile walk to the car.
Back at the home front, he does indeed unload the bags. But he cannot be much help with the putting away, for he has no idea where most of it goes. He takes the paper towels to the basement, where eight other rolls fill a shelf next to batteries of all sizes. "Hah!" he thinks, "Let the Russians come!"
Upstairs, she struggles to close the freezer door, blocked by a brick of cherry vanilla. And with a sigh she puts the pickled okra in the pantry, next to the jar he bought the last time she let him come along.
2012年4月12日星期四
Mary J. Blige Gifts Fan With $2,500 Shopping Spree on Rodeo Drive
After a Burger King commercial starring Mary J. Blige made headlines due to the chanteuse singing soulfully about crispy chicken, many of the "Mr. Wrong" performer's supporters felt she let them down by falling victim to stereotypes. However, one fan put all of that aside during a recent trip to Hollywood, where the singer gifted her with a shopping spree on Rodeo Drive.
Candis Linen of Cleveland, Ohio, an avid listener of hometown station 93.1 WZAK, won an all expenses paid trip to Hollywood thanks to the station, in addition to a $2,500 shopping spree and lunch with the Queen of Hip-Hop Soul last week.
Blige and Linen sat down for a meal of lobster, shrimp and filet mignon at Mr. Chow's in Beverly Hills. As they ate, both engaged in a discussion centered on faith, removing negative energy and allowing good things to come into one's life -- all hot topics that the R&B singer proudly details in her lyrics.
Food for thought that was, but hitting the strip was the highlight. Blige suggested stopping at the Gucci store on Rodeo Drive to take full advantage of her 50 percent off friends and family discount. The Grammy-winning artist chose a tan Gucci bag for Linen, who was floored she was able to walk out of the designer hot spot with that, two huge shopping bags and an unforgettable experience.
Candis Linen of Cleveland, Ohio, an avid listener of hometown station 93.1 WZAK, won an all expenses paid trip to Hollywood thanks to the station, in addition to a $2,500 shopping spree and lunch with the Queen of Hip-Hop Soul last week.
Blige and Linen sat down for a meal of lobster, shrimp and filet mignon at Mr. Chow's in Beverly Hills. As they ate, both engaged in a discussion centered on faith, removing negative energy and allowing good things to come into one's life -- all hot topics that the R&B singer proudly details in her lyrics.
Food for thought that was, but hitting the strip was the highlight. Blige suggested stopping at the Gucci store on Rodeo Drive to take full advantage of her 50 percent off friends and family discount. The Grammy-winning artist chose a tan Gucci bag for Linen, who was floored she was able to walk out of the designer hot spot with that, two huge shopping bags and an unforgettable experience.
2012年4月11日星期三
Featured: Carry that style
Don't let a dowdy travel bag interfere with your vibrant summer travel style. Sheetal Anand gets experts to help you pick up a travel bag as pretty and unique as the outfits you wear
Travel hassle-free
Jayesh Mehta, CEO, Esbeda says, "Travelling light is the key to comfortable and stress-free travel because lugging less weight means you move with more comfort and freedom." Esbeda offers its summer collection of fashionable striped bags, colourful satchels and totes. Trendy, light and convenient, with different compartments and segregators, these bags fit almost all the requirements for your summer sojourn. "Perfect for travelling in style." adds Jayesh.
Travel colour-plus
Fun, funky and on trend with this season's latest styles, the bags should be a jaunty salute to the holiday mood. Malini Agarwalla of Malaga says, "Keeping in mind the fun element, I have added bright blocks of colour to this new collection of bags." The classic shapes and leather trimmings add sophistication; make her bags perfect for various activities. Designed using resilient materials, these will keep you perennially stylish and your belongings blissfully dry.
Travel hands-free
When on a trip, you have so many activities lined up and so many things to carry, including cash and valuables. That's why a safe, hands-free storage option is one that you just cannot "forget in a taxi ride." Backpacks, cross-bodies, hip-bags are just what you need to maximise your holiday enjoyment. Not only are they loaded with numerous compartments, pockets, and zippers, these bags offer complete comfort to adventure enthusiasts and long distance travellers.
Travel well-wheeled
Today, even a small luggage accessory such as a tote or duffel bag can be found in a wheeled version, making travel and business a breeze. Now, just wheel your possessions along in style and comfort.
Travel hassle-free
Jayesh Mehta, CEO, Esbeda says, "Travelling light is the key to comfortable and stress-free travel because lugging less weight means you move with more comfort and freedom." Esbeda offers its summer collection of fashionable striped bags, colourful satchels and totes. Trendy, light and convenient, with different compartments and segregators, these bags fit almost all the requirements for your summer sojourn. "Perfect for travelling in style." adds Jayesh.
Travel colour-plus
Fun, funky and on trend with this season's latest styles, the bags should be a jaunty salute to the holiday mood. Malini Agarwalla of Malaga says, "Keeping in mind the fun element, I have added bright blocks of colour to this new collection of bags." The classic shapes and leather trimmings add sophistication; make her bags perfect for various activities. Designed using resilient materials, these will keep you perennially stylish and your belongings blissfully dry.
Travel hands-free
When on a trip, you have so many activities lined up and so many things to carry, including cash and valuables. That's why a safe, hands-free storage option is one that you just cannot "forget in a taxi ride." Backpacks, cross-bodies, hip-bags are just what you need to maximise your holiday enjoyment. Not only are they loaded with numerous compartments, pockets, and zippers, these bags offer complete comfort to adventure enthusiasts and long distance travellers.
Travel well-wheeled
Today, even a small luggage accessory such as a tote or duffel bag can be found in a wheeled version, making travel and business a breeze. Now, just wheel your possessions along in style and comfort.
2012年4月10日星期二
Rhino horn more expensive than coke
Nguyen Huong Giang loves to party but loathes hangovers, so she ends her whiskey benders by tossing back shots of rhino horn ground with water on a special ceramic plate.
Her father gave her the 4-inch (10-centimetre) brown horn as a gift, claiming it cures everything from headaches to cancer. Vietnam has become so obsessed with the fingernail-like substance it now sells for more than cocaine.
"I don't know how much it costs," said Giang, 24, after showing off the horn in her high-rise apartment overlooking the capital, Hanoi. "I only know it's expensive."
Experts say Vietnam's surging demand is threatening to wipe out the world's remaining rhinoceros populations, which recovered from the brink of extinction after the 1970s thanks to conservation campaigns. Illegal killings in Africa hit the highest recorded level in 2011 and are expected to worsen this year.
This week South Africa called for renewed cooperation with Vietnam after a "shocking number" of rhinos have already been reported dead this year.
China has long valued rhino horn for its purported - though unproven -medicinal properties, but US officials and international wildlife experts now say Vietnam's recent intense craving, blamed partly on a widespread rumour that rhino horn cures cancer, is putting unprecedented pressure on the world's estimated 28,000 remaining animals, mainly in South Africa.
"It's a very dire situation," US Fish and Wildlife Service Director Dan Ashe said by telephone. "We have very little cushion for these populations in the wild."
Although data on the global rhino horn trade is scarce, poaching in Africa has soared in the past two years, with American officials saying China and Vietnam are driving the trade that has no "significant" end market in the United States.
Wildlife advocates say that over the last decade, rhino horn has become a must-have luxury item for some Vietnamese nouveau riche, alongside Gucci bags and expensive Maybach cars.
Between 2006 and 2008, three diplomats at the Vietnamese Embassy in Pretoria were linked to embarrassing rhino trafficking scandals -including one caught on tape. In February, US agents busted an alleged interstate rhino horn trafficking syndicate with Vietnamese-American ringleaders.
According to a court affidavit obtained by The Associated Press, Felix Kha, one of the alleged traffickers arrested in the recent US bust, allegedly travelled to China 12 times between 2004 and 2011 and to Vietnam five times last year.
"There are still horns going into China but Vietnam is driving the increase in poaching for horns," said Chris R. Shepherd, deputy regional director for Southeast Asia at the wildlife advocacy group TRAFFIC. "Vietnamese authorities really need to step up their efforts to find out who is behind horn trafficking ... and put them out of business."
The rhino horn craze offers bigger payoffs than other exotic wildlife products such as bear bile or tiger bone paste. American officials say the crushed powder fetches up to $55,000 per kilogram in Asia ($25,000 per pound) - a price that can top the US street value of cocaine, making the hoof-like substance literally as valuable as gold.
The drive is so great, thieves are now pinching rhino horns from European museums and taxidermy shops, sometimes smashing them off with sledgehammers before fleeing. According to Europol, the European law enforcement agency, 72 rhino horns were stolen from 15 European countries in 2011, the first year such data was recorded.
Her father gave her the 4-inch (10-centimetre) brown horn as a gift, claiming it cures everything from headaches to cancer. Vietnam has become so obsessed with the fingernail-like substance it now sells for more than cocaine.
"I don't know how much it costs," said Giang, 24, after showing off the horn in her high-rise apartment overlooking the capital, Hanoi. "I only know it's expensive."
Experts say Vietnam's surging demand is threatening to wipe out the world's remaining rhinoceros populations, which recovered from the brink of extinction after the 1970s thanks to conservation campaigns. Illegal killings in Africa hit the highest recorded level in 2011 and are expected to worsen this year.
This week South Africa called for renewed cooperation with Vietnam after a "shocking number" of rhinos have already been reported dead this year.
China has long valued rhino horn for its purported - though unproven -medicinal properties, but US officials and international wildlife experts now say Vietnam's recent intense craving, blamed partly on a widespread rumour that rhino horn cures cancer, is putting unprecedented pressure on the world's estimated 28,000 remaining animals, mainly in South Africa.
"It's a very dire situation," US Fish and Wildlife Service Director Dan Ashe said by telephone. "We have very little cushion for these populations in the wild."
Although data on the global rhino horn trade is scarce, poaching in Africa has soared in the past two years, with American officials saying China and Vietnam are driving the trade that has no "significant" end market in the United States.
Wildlife advocates say that over the last decade, rhino horn has become a must-have luxury item for some Vietnamese nouveau riche, alongside Gucci bags and expensive Maybach cars.
Between 2006 and 2008, three diplomats at the Vietnamese Embassy in Pretoria were linked to embarrassing rhino trafficking scandals -including one caught on tape. In February, US agents busted an alleged interstate rhino horn trafficking syndicate with Vietnamese-American ringleaders.
According to a court affidavit obtained by The Associated Press, Felix Kha, one of the alleged traffickers arrested in the recent US bust, allegedly travelled to China 12 times between 2004 and 2011 and to Vietnam five times last year.
"There are still horns going into China but Vietnam is driving the increase in poaching for horns," said Chris R. Shepherd, deputy regional director for Southeast Asia at the wildlife advocacy group TRAFFIC. "Vietnamese authorities really need to step up their efforts to find out who is behind horn trafficking ... and put them out of business."
The rhino horn craze offers bigger payoffs than other exotic wildlife products such as bear bile or tiger bone paste. American officials say the crushed powder fetches up to $55,000 per kilogram in Asia ($25,000 per pound) - a price that can top the US street value of cocaine, making the hoof-like substance literally as valuable as gold.
The drive is so great, thieves are now pinching rhino horns from European museums and taxidermy shops, sometimes smashing them off with sledgehammers before fleeing. According to Europol, the European law enforcement agency, 72 rhino horns were stolen from 15 European countries in 2011, the first year such data was recorded.
2012年4月9日星期一
Living the DREAM: Undocumented Youth Build Lives in America
The story of Raul Garcia, a good-looking young man who's quick to smile and extraordinarily easy to talk to, is much more typical. When he was two years old, Raul's mother carried him over the U.S. border on her back. Unlike Lorella, Raul grew up in a crime-ridden neighborhood in Hartford and got caught up with the wrong crew. In middle school, he started dealing drugs, carrying a freezer bag of cocaine and ecstasy wherever he went.
After graduating from high school, Raul stopped dealing and enrolled at a local community college using a fake social security number and much of the family's savings. He graduated with honors in communications in May of 2010, but the most meaningful part of his college experience was co-founding a program dedicated to tutoring high schoolers from Hartford's poverty-stricken neighborhoods. Raul's face lights up when he talks about this -- in an ideal world, he would devote his time to tutoring and mentoring at-risk teenagers.
Instead of turning his passion for mentoring teenagers into a career, Raul stands by himself in front of a 12-foot long printing machine for nine hours each day. A giant roll of paper spans the length of the machine, and onto it, Raul prints applications for things he can't apply for. "I have a lot of time to daydream," he says in a matter-of-fact tone. "In my head, I plan all these things I want to do. These fundraisers, these programs I want to start."
The printing factory was the only employer Raul could find willing to risk breaking a federal law by overlooking his status. Raul is slowly working towards a BA at the University of Connecticut, but because he can't apply for financial aid, he can only take one class at a time. He's wanted to marry Andrea, an American citizen and the mother of his two-year-old son, for years, but because he didn't come to the country with a visa to begin with, he would have to leave the country first and then prove that Andrea faces "exceptional and extremely unusual hardship" without him there.
Perhaps more depressing than all this is the fact that Raul may be paying for his mistakes for a long time. Because he didn't know to leave the social security number blank on his community college application, for example, he may have unknowingly created legal barriers to his eligibility for the DREAM Act if the act ever passes. Because his parents have no savings, and because he spent his high school years befriending drug dealers and not, like some C4Ders, befriending Americans who could help him pay for college, he pays for his college education alone. And because he now works, takes classes, and cares for his family, Raul hasn't made time to inform himself about opportunities for undocumented students.
When I ask Raul how he manages to stay positive while living with so many barriers to his success, his usual charismatic smile gives way to a tired, dejected look. "I have to put up a front," he says quietly, "But it's like a psychological prison."
Realistically, Raul may already be a lost cause -- in fact, he is seriously considering leaving Andrea and his son to make a life for himself in South America. But his situation is still better than it was 10 years ago because he is part of a community of students who are getting sick, as Lorella puts it, of "viviendo en las sombras" -- of living in the shadows. The budding movement's literature circulates among friends, and every two weeks, new people crowd into C4D's office for meetings. Its members drive long distances without licenses to speak at workshops in the hopes of motivating just a few high schoolers to envision lives beyond rock-bottom wages and the overbearing fear of deportation.
After graduating from high school, Raul stopped dealing and enrolled at a local community college using a fake social security number and much of the family's savings. He graduated with honors in communications in May of 2010, but the most meaningful part of his college experience was co-founding a program dedicated to tutoring high schoolers from Hartford's poverty-stricken neighborhoods. Raul's face lights up when he talks about this -- in an ideal world, he would devote his time to tutoring and mentoring at-risk teenagers.
Instead of turning his passion for mentoring teenagers into a career, Raul stands by himself in front of a 12-foot long printing machine for nine hours each day. A giant roll of paper spans the length of the machine, and onto it, Raul prints applications for things he can't apply for. "I have a lot of time to daydream," he says in a matter-of-fact tone. "In my head, I plan all these things I want to do. These fundraisers, these programs I want to start."
The printing factory was the only employer Raul could find willing to risk breaking a federal law by overlooking his status. Raul is slowly working towards a BA at the University of Connecticut, but because he can't apply for financial aid, he can only take one class at a time. He's wanted to marry Andrea, an American citizen and the mother of his two-year-old son, for years, but because he didn't come to the country with a visa to begin with, he would have to leave the country first and then prove that Andrea faces "exceptional and extremely unusual hardship" without him there.
Perhaps more depressing than all this is the fact that Raul may be paying for his mistakes for a long time. Because he didn't know to leave the social security number blank on his community college application, for example, he may have unknowingly created legal barriers to his eligibility for the DREAM Act if the act ever passes. Because his parents have no savings, and because he spent his high school years befriending drug dealers and not, like some C4Ders, befriending Americans who could help him pay for college, he pays for his college education alone. And because he now works, takes classes, and cares for his family, Raul hasn't made time to inform himself about opportunities for undocumented students.
When I ask Raul how he manages to stay positive while living with so many barriers to his success, his usual charismatic smile gives way to a tired, dejected look. "I have to put up a front," he says quietly, "But it's like a psychological prison."
Realistically, Raul may already be a lost cause -- in fact, he is seriously considering leaving Andrea and his son to make a life for himself in South America. But his situation is still better than it was 10 years ago because he is part of a community of students who are getting sick, as Lorella puts it, of "viviendo en las sombras" -- of living in the shadows. The budding movement's literature circulates among friends, and every two weeks, new people crowd into C4D's office for meetings. Its members drive long distances without licenses to speak at workshops in the hopes of motivating just a few high schoolers to envision lives beyond rock-bottom wages and the overbearing fear of deportation.
2012年4月8日星期日
Say No to Plastic Bags in the Produce Aisle!
More and more of us make sure to bring reusable shopping bags to pack up our groceries at the supermarket. But what about when you're in the produce aisle and buying a dozen apples, a bunch of asparagus or kale — how many single use grocery bags do you pull out, only to discard them once home?
Writing on Good, Sarah Lawkow notes that a movement to stop using single-use plastic bags for produce is in its infancy. But all those filmy plastic bags add to the more than 31 million tons of plastic waste the U.S. produces in a year, according to the EPA. In 2010, only 12 percent of plastic bags, sacks and wraps was recycled: We can do better.
Brooklyn's Park Slope Food Co-op has called on customers to stop using the bags while some farmers' markets offer biodegradable single-use bags. In most places, customers are on their own to forego produce-aisle plastics. There are many options: Laskow lists quite a few (many via Etsy including several made from mesh), as well as some retailers that offer produce bags. Some bags are made from cotton and others from starch from plant sources so they can be composted (noted by Green-Mary). Rodale also suggests turning “retired bed linens, thin tea towels, and mismatched cloth napkins” as well as old t-shirts into reusable produce bags.
There is also the simple option of just putting produce into your reusable grocery bag. After all, the produce needs to be washed once you've unpacked it in your kitchen (as does the reusable grocery bag itself).
Plastic bags were only introduced in the 1970s. In 2008, Americans used some 102 billion according to the United States International Trade Commission (a small improvement: in 2006, some 109.8 billion bags were used). But I still remember a time when no store clerk ever asked “paper or plastic” in the checkout lane because paper was the only option. In just about three decades, we've gone from using just a few plastic bags to billions. Surely we can find other ways to bring the vegetables home, as generations before us once did.
Writing on Good, Sarah Lawkow notes that a movement to stop using single-use plastic bags for produce is in its infancy. But all those filmy plastic bags add to the more than 31 million tons of plastic waste the U.S. produces in a year, according to the EPA. In 2010, only 12 percent of plastic bags, sacks and wraps was recycled: We can do better.
Brooklyn's Park Slope Food Co-op has called on customers to stop using the bags while some farmers' markets offer biodegradable single-use bags. In most places, customers are on their own to forego produce-aisle plastics. There are many options: Laskow lists quite a few (many via Etsy including several made from mesh), as well as some retailers that offer produce bags. Some bags are made from cotton and others from starch from plant sources so they can be composted (noted by Green-Mary). Rodale also suggests turning “retired bed linens, thin tea towels, and mismatched cloth napkins” as well as old t-shirts into reusable produce bags.
There is also the simple option of just putting produce into your reusable grocery bag. After all, the produce needs to be washed once you've unpacked it in your kitchen (as does the reusable grocery bag itself).
Plastic bags were only introduced in the 1970s. In 2008, Americans used some 102 billion according to the United States International Trade Commission (a small improvement: in 2006, some 109.8 billion bags were used). But I still remember a time when no store clerk ever asked “paper or plastic” in the checkout lane because paper was the only option. In just about three decades, we've gone from using just a few plastic bags to billions. Surely we can find other ways to bring the vegetables home, as generations before us once did.
2012年4月5日星期四
Coccinelle bags Spring / Summer 2012
The Coccinelle handbags are beautiful and affordable , perfect accessories for all girls who love to take care of your look without necessarily to focus on brands that "cost" as an entire month's salary. The Coccinelle bags are stylish, trendy and are made ??with quality materials, they last for many years and will accompany you in your most special moments. Let's find out all the news of the new collection.
The Celeste bag now we know all too well , is the new it bag of the brand Coccinelle, bright sun and a bag perfect for all women. The Celeste bag is available in both the maxi clutch handbag that is declined in several colors so that each can find the perfect one for your style .
Coccinelle Bags: Esprit bag
The Esprit bag is a very nice model that Coccinelle offers us for our life every day, a tote simple and minimal made ??of metallic leather and available in various colors.
Coccinelle Bags: perforated patterns and logoed
Coccinelle offers us many models made ??of perforated leather , laser, a very nice style and refined in the summer is always very popular and every year always comes to the fore, the brand offers us both whites and blacks that other models colored in orange and green. Even back in the spring logoed bags , bags in which the logo acts as a pattern, just as they have Gucci and Louis Vuitton. Coccinelle presents various logoed bags, we have those classic tones but also models in sparkling yellow, red and turquoise.
After admiring the capsule collection by Barbara Hulanicki (Biba designer of the famous brand), and one designed with German Kostas Murkudis , now it's up to the Russian designer Alexander Terekhov create a collection for the brand Coccinelle. "It is a brilliant and talented designer, who has already achieved a great success but at the same time has a great future ahead of him," say the leaders of Ladybugs and we can not but agree. The collection was created for the Russian market but is distributed throughout the world, is inspired by an imaginary trip to Morocco . The bags are made ??of nappa leather inserts in the canvas and prints are inspired by the culture of African folk music and are in orange and turquoise , the collection includes a tote, a clutch and a shoulder bag.
The Celeste bag now we know all too well , is the new it bag of the brand Coccinelle, bright sun and a bag perfect for all women. The Celeste bag is available in both the maxi clutch handbag that is declined in several colors so that each can find the perfect one for your style .
Coccinelle Bags: Esprit bag
The Esprit bag is a very nice model that Coccinelle offers us for our life every day, a tote simple and minimal made ??of metallic leather and available in various colors.
Coccinelle Bags: perforated patterns and logoed
Coccinelle offers us many models made ??of perforated leather , laser, a very nice style and refined in the summer is always very popular and every year always comes to the fore, the brand offers us both whites and blacks that other models colored in orange and green. Even back in the spring logoed bags , bags in which the logo acts as a pattern, just as they have Gucci and Louis Vuitton. Coccinelle presents various logoed bags, we have those classic tones but also models in sparkling yellow, red and turquoise.
After admiring the capsule collection by Barbara Hulanicki (Biba designer of the famous brand), and one designed with German Kostas Murkudis , now it's up to the Russian designer Alexander Terekhov create a collection for the brand Coccinelle. "It is a brilliant and talented designer, who has already achieved a great success but at the same time has a great future ahead of him," say the leaders of Ladybugs and we can not but agree. The collection was created for the Russian market but is distributed throughout the world, is inspired by an imaginary trip to Morocco . The bags are made ??of nappa leather inserts in the canvas and prints are inspired by the culture of African folk music and are in orange and turquoise , the collection includes a tote, a clutch and a shoulder bag.
2012年4月4日星期三
Designer Creates A Bag That Charges Your Mobile Devices On-The-Go
As part of London Fashion Week's Autumn/Winter 2012 Showcase, Vodafone has teamed up with British designer Richard Nicoll—who freelanced for Marc Jacobs at Louis Vuitton before starting his eponymous label—to create a bag that is capable of charging mobile devices.
For tech-savvy fashionistas, the revolutionary handbag allows its users to plug in and power up their Blackberries, iPhones, iPads and Android phones on the go, via a cable on the inner pocket of the purse.
According to The Telegraph, this solves one's "nomophobic woes"—which stands for "no-mobile-phone-phobia".
The recharging tote bag itself must be first charged, via a magnetic induction cable that magnetically attaches to the outside of the bag.
But once the handbag's battery is fully charged, it can charge handheld devices for at least two full days.
Additionally, when its users receive a call or message, a Bluetooth-activated LED 'accessory' on the outside of the bag illuminates to notify you.
"This is the second season that we've partnered with Vodafone and we wanted to create a collaborative product that fused technology and fashion, and that was relevant for both of us—so we came up with the idea of doing a charging bag that charges your mobile device on the go, which is especially relevant for my collection this season, because it's all about the notion of work and all its facets in modern times," Nicoll told The Telegraph.
The tote bag was created as part of Nicoll's 'Modern Times' line, and was developed in association with leather goods company Tusting.
And because we live in a technologically-advanced world, where everyone is always on their phones, such a bag is in demand—and it will be on sale by the end of spring. In anticipation…
For tech-savvy fashionistas, the revolutionary handbag allows its users to plug in and power up their Blackberries, iPhones, iPads and Android phones on the go, via a cable on the inner pocket of the purse.
According to The Telegraph, this solves one's "nomophobic woes"—which stands for "no-mobile-phone-phobia".
The recharging tote bag itself must be first charged, via a magnetic induction cable that magnetically attaches to the outside of the bag.
But once the handbag's battery is fully charged, it can charge handheld devices for at least two full days.
Additionally, when its users receive a call or message, a Bluetooth-activated LED 'accessory' on the outside of the bag illuminates to notify you.
"This is the second season that we've partnered with Vodafone and we wanted to create a collaborative product that fused technology and fashion, and that was relevant for both of us—so we came up with the idea of doing a charging bag that charges your mobile device on the go, which is especially relevant for my collection this season, because it's all about the notion of work and all its facets in modern times," Nicoll told The Telegraph.
The tote bag was created as part of Nicoll's 'Modern Times' line, and was developed in association with leather goods company Tusting.
And because we live in a technologically-advanced world, where everyone is always on their phones, such a bag is in demand—and it will be on sale by the end of spring. In anticipation…
2012年3月31日星期六
California Sixth Graders Find Bags of 'Treasure' in Oakland Lake
A group of sixth graders in Oakland, Calif., doing their weekly cleanup along the the shore of a local lake, stumbled across something that was not the usual tree limbs or old junk -- it looked like treasure.
"I was picking up some trash and I saw a bunch of people in my group gathering, so I quickly ran over there," said Simone, a sixth grader with the group.
"There were two bags almost full of pretty jewelry that had gold and silver."
The students, from St. Paul's Episcopal School in Oakland, had found two 15-pound canvas bags full of jewelry and other valuable objects including rings, pocket watches, two silver candlesticks, a silver spoon and a switchblade.
"We usually just think there is gonna be water or sludge in the bag. We were definitely not expecting anything like that," said Simone.
There were an estimated 75 to 100 pieces of jewelry and other valuables.
The students were skimming through the water on Thursday when they saw the bags in about two feet of water. One of the students needed help because she could not lift them.
"I put on hip boots, retrieved the heavy bags and gave them to the students," said Dr. Richard Bailey of the Lake Merritt Institute, a local group that organizes community cleanups.
Oakland police informed St. Paul's they are investigating the discovery and trying to match the items with records of stolen goods. If unclaimed the goods will return to St. Paul's.
"They are going to try to find the owners," Jane Adams, the communications manager at St. Paul's, told ABC News.com. "It looks like stuff that possibly came from an estate sale."
Adams said she thought the location of the bags and their contents, one with a Wells Fargo logo on the side, was odd.
"It appears to be stolen property, some of it old," said Bailey. "There is an engraving for Thomas F. Graham, 1931 or '32 on the back on one stopwatch. He was apparently president of St. Joseph's school for boys in New Jersey from 1921-25. A man by that name is buried here in California, having died Oct. 10, 1935."
Other items that have been found in the lake along with normal trash include a bowling ball, a tiny ribbon-wrapped casket with a gerbil inside, a college football trophy and a hand-carved pumice candle holder, Bailey told ABC News.com in an e-mail.
"The kids were going crazy, they were so excited," Adams said. "Our school mission is service; we were very excited that we were able to serve the Oakland police as well as the community. It's a great lesson for our kids; they're hoping the goods get returned."
Oakland police did not return ABC News.com's request for comment.
Sixth graders at St. Paul's have been participating in "The Clean Lake Program" for the past 15 years. A group goes every Thursday. Volunteers remove up to 6,000 lbs. of trash from the lake each month.
"For the most part, they're pretty excited about it," said Susan Porter, a sixth grade math and science teacher. "Some treasure that they find in the lake, most people would not think of as a monetary treasure, but it's something that they're fascinated by."
"I was picking up some trash and I saw a bunch of people in my group gathering, so I quickly ran over there," said Simone, a sixth grader with the group.
"There were two bags almost full of pretty jewelry that had gold and silver."
The students, from St. Paul's Episcopal School in Oakland, had found two 15-pound canvas bags full of jewelry and other valuable objects including rings, pocket watches, two silver candlesticks, a silver spoon and a switchblade.
"We usually just think there is gonna be water or sludge in the bag. We were definitely not expecting anything like that," said Simone.
There were an estimated 75 to 100 pieces of jewelry and other valuables.
The students were skimming through the water on Thursday when they saw the bags in about two feet of water. One of the students needed help because she could not lift them.
"I put on hip boots, retrieved the heavy bags and gave them to the students," said Dr. Richard Bailey of the Lake Merritt Institute, a local group that organizes community cleanups.
Oakland police informed St. Paul's they are investigating the discovery and trying to match the items with records of stolen goods. If unclaimed the goods will return to St. Paul's.
"They are going to try to find the owners," Jane Adams, the communications manager at St. Paul's, told ABC News.com. "It looks like stuff that possibly came from an estate sale."
Adams said she thought the location of the bags and their contents, one with a Wells Fargo logo on the side, was odd.
"It appears to be stolen property, some of it old," said Bailey. "There is an engraving for Thomas F. Graham, 1931 or '32 on the back on one stopwatch. He was apparently president of St. Joseph's school for boys in New Jersey from 1921-25. A man by that name is buried here in California, having died Oct. 10, 1935."
Other items that have been found in the lake along with normal trash include a bowling ball, a tiny ribbon-wrapped casket with a gerbil inside, a college football trophy and a hand-carved pumice candle holder, Bailey told ABC News.com in an e-mail.
"The kids were going crazy, they were so excited," Adams said. "Our school mission is service; we were very excited that we were able to serve the Oakland police as well as the community. It's a great lesson for our kids; they're hoping the goods get returned."
Oakland police did not return ABC News.com's request for comment.
Sixth graders at St. Paul's have been participating in "The Clean Lake Program" for the past 15 years. A group goes every Thursday. Volunteers remove up to 6,000 lbs. of trash from the lake each month.
"For the most part, they're pretty excited about it," said Susan Porter, a sixth grade math and science teacher. "Some treasure that they find in the lake, most people would not think of as a monetary treasure, but it's something that they're fascinated by."
2012年3月30日星期五
Paper sacrificial offerings burning hot
The price of paper-made sacrificial offerings has increased by up to 50 percent ahead of the Qingming Festival, or Tomb-Sweeping Day, in Guangzhou, mainly due to the rising costs of labor and raw materials.
Paper-made imitations of famous brand-name luxuries, including Louis Vuitton bags, cars, laptops, watches, garments, wine and cigarettes, were among the items that saw the largest price hike.
"A paper-made foreign-brand car, Louis Vuitton bag or a set of Western-style suits now sells at 40 yuan ($6.35) in many sacrificial offering shops in Guangxiao road, up about 50 percent compared with the price recorded a year ago," a shop owner who revealed only her surname, Chen, said on Thursday.
"And business has been brisk in the past two weeks," she told China Daily.
"The superstitious Cantonese people, who usually pay a great deal of attention to Qingming Festival, which falls on April 4 this year, will buy and burn the paper-made products for their dead ancestors, despite the price hike," said Chen.
"I'm not concerned that business will be affected by the price hike, because few Cantonese will refuse to spend money to worship their ancestors during the festival," she added.
In another shop that sells false bank notes for the dead, the shop owner, surnamed Zhang, said ceremonial money of a bigger face value is selling like hot cakes at the higher price.
"A pile of ceremonial money with a face value of more than 500 billion yuan now sells at 28 yuan, about 10 yuan more than a pile with a smaller face value," he told China Daily.
It seems inflation is as serious in the other world.
Zhang said ceremonial money has reached a face value of 980 billion yuan and it is the new product this year.
In addition to the traditional items, such as paper money, sacrificial articles available in Zhang's store include villas, sedan cars, garments, bras, wine, computers, cameras, watches, cigarettes, seafood, pianos, violins and other "luxury goods", and high-tech products, such as iPhones and iPads.
Even paper-made concubines and nannies have been added to the traditional offerings for the Qingming Festival.
Zhang said the new products would certainly help attract young buyers.
"As society progresses, offerings should also keep pace with the times," he added.
Yi Chongming, a young Guangzhou white-collar worker, said that although prices have increased, he will buy the paper offerings to mourn his grandfather.
"In addition to demonstrating my filial piety to my grandfather, who died of illness two years ago, I hope my grandfather will bless me in the coming months, after I burned 'luxury' paper offerings for him during the festival," Yi said.
And every year across the country, more than 1,000 metric tons of paper products are burned as offerings during the Qingming Festival period, costing more than 10 billion yuan, according to China Consumers' Association.
As Qingming Festival draws near, sales of other festival-related products, including fresh flowers and roasted suckling pigs, have also witnessed big growth in the past weeks.
Zhao Liping, a senior executive from Guangzhou Restaurant Group, said the number of people who ordered roasted suckling pigs has increased 10 percent this year, despite a price hike. A roasted suckling pig now sells at about 648 yuan, up more than 40 percent from a year ago.
Zhao said the price hike was due to increases in wholesale and production costs, chefs' salaries and seasoning.
Paper-made imitations of famous brand-name luxuries, including Louis Vuitton bags, cars, laptops, watches, garments, wine and cigarettes, were among the items that saw the largest price hike.
"A paper-made foreign-brand car, Louis Vuitton bag or a set of Western-style suits now sells at 40 yuan ($6.35) in many sacrificial offering shops in Guangxiao road, up about 50 percent compared with the price recorded a year ago," a shop owner who revealed only her surname, Chen, said on Thursday.
"And business has been brisk in the past two weeks," she told China Daily.
"The superstitious Cantonese people, who usually pay a great deal of attention to Qingming Festival, which falls on April 4 this year, will buy and burn the paper-made products for their dead ancestors, despite the price hike," said Chen.
"I'm not concerned that business will be affected by the price hike, because few Cantonese will refuse to spend money to worship their ancestors during the festival," she added.
In another shop that sells false bank notes for the dead, the shop owner, surnamed Zhang, said ceremonial money of a bigger face value is selling like hot cakes at the higher price.
"A pile of ceremonial money with a face value of more than 500 billion yuan now sells at 28 yuan, about 10 yuan more than a pile with a smaller face value," he told China Daily.
It seems inflation is as serious in the other world.
Zhang said ceremonial money has reached a face value of 980 billion yuan and it is the new product this year.
In addition to the traditional items, such as paper money, sacrificial articles available in Zhang's store include villas, sedan cars, garments, bras, wine, computers, cameras, watches, cigarettes, seafood, pianos, violins and other "luxury goods", and high-tech products, such as iPhones and iPads.
Even paper-made concubines and nannies have been added to the traditional offerings for the Qingming Festival.
Zhang said the new products would certainly help attract young buyers.
"As society progresses, offerings should also keep pace with the times," he added.
Yi Chongming, a young Guangzhou white-collar worker, said that although prices have increased, he will buy the paper offerings to mourn his grandfather.
"In addition to demonstrating my filial piety to my grandfather, who died of illness two years ago, I hope my grandfather will bless me in the coming months, after I burned 'luxury' paper offerings for him during the festival," Yi said.
And every year across the country, more than 1,000 metric tons of paper products are burned as offerings during the Qingming Festival period, costing more than 10 billion yuan, according to China Consumers' Association.
As Qingming Festival draws near, sales of other festival-related products, including fresh flowers and roasted suckling pigs, have also witnessed big growth in the past weeks.
Zhao Liping, a senior executive from Guangzhou Restaurant Group, said the number of people who ordered roasted suckling pigs has increased 10 percent this year, despite a price hike. A roasted suckling pig now sells at about 648 yuan, up more than 40 percent from a year ago.
Zhao said the price hike was due to increases in wholesale and production costs, chefs' salaries and seasoning.
2012年3月29日星期四
Pharrell Williams
In the highly imitable world of hip-hop, producer Pharrell Williams has cut a unique path, never content to run with the pack. Among the first to challenge the baggy-pants ideal of hip-hop attire, he champions the work of cutting-edge designers like Rei Kawakubo and Alber Elbaz and has made possible the once absurd notion of a tough young man toting an Hermès handbag.
Williams, who turns 39 on April 5, formed the production duo the Neptunes with childhood friend Chad Hugo, and from there established his distinctive sound. In 2009, Billboard named the Neptunes the top producers of the decade. Williams has become a behind-the-scenes mastermind, producing, writing and appearing on hits for rap royals like Jay-Z and Snoop Dogg and less expected acts, such as Britney Spears and garage band the Hives. He also performs with his own band, N.E.R.D.
He has moved into fashion himself, with his line Billionaire Boys Club (which has stores in New York City and Hong Kong), and has designed jewelry and eyeglasses for Louis Vuitton. He calls himself a "kidult," referencing his man-child tendencies, which might make sense for someone who rocketed to fame—and riches—in his early 20s.
But while Williams is increasingly seen as a businessman, creating new songs occupies the bulk of his time. Over the course of a 16-hour day in Los Angeles, he records four songs and also works on the score for the Oscars. (He was chosen by composer Hans Zimmer to help produce the show.) In the studio, Pharrell's concentration is unyielding. He throws out an easy freestyle rhyme and then sits down with a keyboard and laptop and slips into a trance. Layers are added, and a few errant beats turn into a full-bodied song with a sound likely to reign on the charts.
Williams, who turns 39 on April 5, formed the production duo the Neptunes with childhood friend Chad Hugo, and from there established his distinctive sound. In 2009, Billboard named the Neptunes the top producers of the decade. Williams has become a behind-the-scenes mastermind, producing, writing and appearing on hits for rap royals like Jay-Z and Snoop Dogg and less expected acts, such as Britney Spears and garage band the Hives. He also performs with his own band, N.E.R.D.
He has moved into fashion himself, with his line Billionaire Boys Club (which has stores in New York City and Hong Kong), and has designed jewelry and eyeglasses for Louis Vuitton. He calls himself a "kidult," referencing his man-child tendencies, which might make sense for someone who rocketed to fame—and riches—in his early 20s.
But while Williams is increasingly seen as a businessman, creating new songs occupies the bulk of his time. Over the course of a 16-hour day in Los Angeles, he records four songs and also works on the score for the Oscars. (He was chosen by composer Hans Zimmer to help produce the show.) In the studio, Pharrell's concentration is unyielding. He throws out an easy freestyle rhyme and then sits down with a keyboard and laptop and slips into a trance. Layers are added, and a few errant beats turn into a full-bodied song with a sound likely to reign on the charts.
2012年3月28日星期三
Martin, Morrison killings hit home
In light of widespread public attention and outcry over the shooting deaths of 17-year-old Trayvon Martin of Florida and 20-year-old Bo Morrison in Slinger, Wis., earlier this month, members of the Madison community gathered on Library Mall Tuesday to push for racial equality.
A crowd of about 150 students, teachers and community members joined together in support of Martin and Morrison and to spread awareness about their views on the issue of social inequality in relation to both cases.
Martin, an African American, was shot and killed Feb. 26 by 28-year-old George Zimmerman, who has not been charged or arrested in the case. Zimmerman claimed self defense, though police reports show Martin was unarmed and carrying only a bag of skittles and an energy drinking while wearing a hooded sweatshirt.
Morrison was killed in Slinger, Wis. after a homeowner found Morrison hiding on a back porch. Adam Kind, the man who fatally shot Morrison, was not been charged in the shooting.
At the speak-out event, University of Wisconsin junior Tiffany Schroeder said Morrison was a close friend of hers, and she has felt frustrated as she feels the media has portrayed Morrison as a "young black criminal."
She described the "baby Bo" she had known since age nine, and shared anecdotes of Morrison and his calming qualities including "giant bear hugs."
"I never thought it would be like this. What has happened to Bo and Trayvon are extreme tragedies," she said. "These boys need justice. We must not focus on the past; we must focus on the here and now. We must do what we can to make sure these young men haven’t died in vain."
Christine Bohm, a friend of Morrison who attended the party in Slinger on the night of his death, expressed her feelings regarding the Castle Doctrine, which presumes people using deadly force against intruders are justified regardless of if the illegal trespasser is armed.
She said she feels the law circumvents a due process of law for the Morrison case.
"What this law does is give the next person in this situation the idea that killing is lawful and acceptable. It’s barbaric; it’s inhumane," she said. "In both cases, these laws seem to have protected the wrong person. That’s 100 percent failure."
Savance Ford, a 17-year-old African American student at Madison West High School, attended the rally and said he felt shocked upon hearing of Martin and Morrison’s killings.
Ford said his mother has not allowed him to go out alone in the past two weeks, despite their neighborhood’s safe reputation, for fear of violent discrimination because of his age, gender and race.
A crowd of about 150 students, teachers and community members joined together in support of Martin and Morrison and to spread awareness about their views on the issue of social inequality in relation to both cases.
Martin, an African American, was shot and killed Feb. 26 by 28-year-old George Zimmerman, who has not been charged or arrested in the case. Zimmerman claimed self defense, though police reports show Martin was unarmed and carrying only a bag of skittles and an energy drinking while wearing a hooded sweatshirt.
Morrison was killed in Slinger, Wis. after a homeowner found Morrison hiding on a back porch. Adam Kind, the man who fatally shot Morrison, was not been charged in the shooting.
At the speak-out event, University of Wisconsin junior Tiffany Schroeder said Morrison was a close friend of hers, and she has felt frustrated as she feels the media has portrayed Morrison as a "young black criminal."
She described the "baby Bo" she had known since age nine, and shared anecdotes of Morrison and his calming qualities including "giant bear hugs."
"I never thought it would be like this. What has happened to Bo and Trayvon are extreme tragedies," she said. "These boys need justice. We must not focus on the past; we must focus on the here and now. We must do what we can to make sure these young men haven’t died in vain."
Christine Bohm, a friend of Morrison who attended the party in Slinger on the night of his death, expressed her feelings regarding the Castle Doctrine, which presumes people using deadly force against intruders are justified regardless of if the illegal trespasser is armed.
She said she feels the law circumvents a due process of law for the Morrison case.
"What this law does is give the next person in this situation the idea that killing is lawful and acceptable. It’s barbaric; it’s inhumane," she said. "In both cases, these laws seem to have protected the wrong person. That’s 100 percent failure."
Savance Ford, a 17-year-old African American student at Madison West High School, attended the rally and said he felt shocked upon hearing of Martin and Morrison’s killings.
Ford said his mother has not allowed him to go out alone in the past two weeks, despite their neighborhood’s safe reputation, for fear of violent discrimination because of his age, gender and race.
2012年3月27日星期二
Double life of Revenge for Sarah
IT'S a warm evening and from this multi-million-dollar Manhattan apartment, the sun setting over Central Park and the New York skyline is magnificent.
The interior has exquisite furnishings and the walk-in wardrobe is filled with Chanel, Gucci and other designer clothes, shoes and handbags.
Thing is, it's not an apartment, but a set on TV drama Ringer, the twist-and-turn-laden drama starring Sarah Michelle Gellar as two characters - Siobhan and recovering addict twin Bridget Kelly.
The apartment is not in Manhattan. It's a set in Stage 3 on Los Angeles' landmark Culver Studios.
To make the balcony view realistic, a 24m x 6m canvas print of the sunset over the city skyline and Central Park was erected.
"I think we've done a pretty amazing job," Gellar says. "I mean, I'm a born and raised New Yorker and it's important to me that we keep not just the look of New York City but the feel of it."
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Ringer marked Gellar's return to starring in a TV series.
After her seven-year run on Buffy the Vampire Slayer ended in 2003, she concentrated on films, but that changed in September 2009, with the birth of daughter Charlotte.
When the 34-year-old, married to actor Freddie Prinze Jr, was offered the roles of Siobhan and Bridget, and the opportunity to executive produce Ringer, she signed up.
With the series shot in LA, she could work and always be close to Charlotte.
"I realised, 'I can be somewhere the entire year. I can take my child for the first day of school'," she says.
"Two weeks ago my daughter was very sick and I got to go home and be with her."
Gellar created a creche on the Culver Studio lot so the actors and crew could bring their children to work.
The interior has exquisite furnishings and the walk-in wardrobe is filled with Chanel, Gucci and other designer clothes, shoes and handbags.
Thing is, it's not an apartment, but a set on TV drama Ringer, the twist-and-turn-laden drama starring Sarah Michelle Gellar as two characters - Siobhan and recovering addict twin Bridget Kelly.
The apartment is not in Manhattan. It's a set in Stage 3 on Los Angeles' landmark Culver Studios.
To make the balcony view realistic, a 24m x 6m canvas print of the sunset over the city skyline and Central Park was erected.
"I think we've done a pretty amazing job," Gellar says. "I mean, I'm a born and raised New Yorker and it's important to me that we keep not just the look of New York City but the feel of it."
Start of sidebar. Skip to end of sidebar.
End of sidebar. Return to start of sidebar.
Ringer marked Gellar's return to starring in a TV series.
After her seven-year run on Buffy the Vampire Slayer ended in 2003, she concentrated on films, but that changed in September 2009, with the birth of daughter Charlotte.
When the 34-year-old, married to actor Freddie Prinze Jr, was offered the roles of Siobhan and Bridget, and the opportunity to executive produce Ringer, she signed up.
With the series shot in LA, she could work and always be close to Charlotte.
"I realised, 'I can be somewhere the entire year. I can take my child for the first day of school'," she says.
"Two weeks ago my daughter was very sick and I got to go home and be with her."
Gellar created a creche on the Culver Studio lot so the actors and crew could bring their children to work.
2012年3月26日星期一
Swept through the workplace wonderful handbag
A beautiful handbags, in addition to the lovable style, excellent material, but also have a specific purpose, for example, used to accompany you battle workplace or BALL field. In general, this section of the package in style is more elegant, gorgeous some occasions, they have to face than in a normal street to be more serious, responsible for much.
Summer workplace packet pairs with a single band?
Elegant handbag is definitely the best choice for this summer workplace, which are divided into the with PRADA Pyramide package as the representative of the dual-band models, as well as the FENDI Peekaboo single-band models of two types, in a single, pairs, hovering between the end which one best suits your personality.
In general, dual-band models will become even more retro, such as CELINE "Handbag handbags, is the classic double-belt handbag launch in the autumn and winter had last year. Since its launch last year, PRADA series of dual-band package shall sell the full house, make persistent efforts this spring and summer, with a multicolor choose the Pyramide one introduced the much-loved, not only to become the darling of the star in the hands of all kinds of stores, take on the good sales performance, fame and fortune. If you would like to again lady a little interpretation, of course, the package section of the DIOR, its dual-band models handbag, especially a special customized version of the high-priced goods, occupy a seat position in the workplace package fierce competition. Of course, has always been highly welcome by the local lady ring, Louis Vuitton, never forget their line of work --- discussion in favor of white-collar workers, the design director Ma Ying-jeou in recent years, generous type of package models to work, not to mention with a handbag, as long as the market, even the "three zones" can play, who told their imagination has always been rich?
As for looks more capable of single-belt handbag, the overall design simple, join point a lot, from Hermes to achieve miraculous FENDI repeatedly, and Ferragamo are found in which the continuation of the minimalist style, but be careful point is that the single band handbags, as well the design constraints, their zipper or opening and closing position did not come easy to operate double band style, but added some of the difficulties in the use.
Summer workplace packet pairs with a single band?
Elegant handbag is definitely the best choice for this summer workplace, which are divided into the with PRADA Pyramide package as the representative of the dual-band models, as well as the FENDI Peekaboo single-band models of two types, in a single, pairs, hovering between the end which one best suits your personality.
In general, dual-band models will become even more retro, such as CELINE "Handbag handbags, is the classic double-belt handbag launch in the autumn and winter had last year. Since its launch last year, PRADA series of dual-band package shall sell the full house, make persistent efforts this spring and summer, with a multicolor choose the Pyramide one introduced the much-loved, not only to become the darling of the star in the hands of all kinds of stores, take on the good sales performance, fame and fortune. If you would like to again lady a little interpretation, of course, the package section of the DIOR, its dual-band models handbag, especially a special customized version of the high-priced goods, occupy a seat position in the workplace package fierce competition. Of course, has always been highly welcome by the local lady ring, Louis Vuitton, never forget their line of work --- discussion in favor of white-collar workers, the design director Ma Ying-jeou in recent years, generous type of package models to work, not to mention with a handbag, as long as the market, even the "three zones" can play, who told their imagination has always been rich?
As for looks more capable of single-belt handbag, the overall design simple, join point a lot, from Hermes to achieve miraculous FENDI repeatedly, and Ferragamo are found in which the continuation of the minimalist style, but be careful point is that the single band handbags, as well the design constraints, their zipper or opening and closing position did not come easy to operate double band style, but added some of the difficulties in the use.
2012年3月25日星期日
Last Week's Top Stories
In what was our top read story for the past week, accused burglars who allegedly had robbed a home in Warren Township were stopped last Saturday, March 17, on Martinsville Road by a Bernards Township police officer when their vehicle supposedly failed to have a rear license plate.
The officer reportedly noted a bag with gloves and jewelry inside, and his questioning allegedly prompted the three men within to speed off, head onto Interstate 78 east, and reportedly exceed 100 m.p.h. before crashing at the ramp leading to exit 40 in Warren Township. The arrests of three men within were announced by the Somerset County prosecutor's office on Monday.
On Thursday afternoon, Verizon union employees who expressed discontent with negotiations on a contract that expired last August were back at the Verizon Center at North Maple Avenue in northern Basking Ridge. The union employees also protested the pending layoff of copper wireline repair workers. The company's official response was that the contract would be settled through negotiations, not rallies, and that about 300 Verizon "Connected Solutions" unit had been "let go" about six weeks ago due to a declining workload.
There was continuing discussion in our Moms Talk column about whether the school's administration would benefit students at Ridge High School with a decision to eliminate midterms and finals at the high school next year. Those tests are due to be replaced with assessment tests each marking period.
In other school news, residents were reminded that the Board of Education will on Monday vote whether to approve a $75.85-million local tax levy to support most the proposed $93.26-million school budget for the 2012-13 school year. By moving the school election to November, the board gained the right to adopt a school budget without a public vote if the tax levy increase remains at or below the cap of a two-percent increase.
And, over at the Senior Wellness Center, a celebrity landed in town when Elvis entered the building last Tuesday. His fans were not disappointed, and we captured some of the show (and kisses) on video.
The officer reportedly noted a bag with gloves and jewelry inside, and his questioning allegedly prompted the three men within to speed off, head onto Interstate 78 east, and reportedly exceed 100 m.p.h. before crashing at the ramp leading to exit 40 in Warren Township. The arrests of three men within were announced by the Somerset County prosecutor's office on Monday.
On Thursday afternoon, Verizon union employees who expressed discontent with negotiations on a contract that expired last August were back at the Verizon Center at North Maple Avenue in northern Basking Ridge. The union employees also protested the pending layoff of copper wireline repair workers. The company's official response was that the contract would be settled through negotiations, not rallies, and that about 300 Verizon "Connected Solutions" unit had been "let go" about six weeks ago due to a declining workload.
There was continuing discussion in our Moms Talk column about whether the school's administration would benefit students at Ridge High School with a decision to eliminate midterms and finals at the high school next year. Those tests are due to be replaced with assessment tests each marking period.
In other school news, residents were reminded that the Board of Education will on Monday vote whether to approve a $75.85-million local tax levy to support most the proposed $93.26-million school budget for the 2012-13 school year. By moving the school election to November, the board gained the right to adopt a school budget without a public vote if the tax levy increase remains at or below the cap of a two-percent increase.
And, over at the Senior Wellness Center, a celebrity landed in town when Elvis entered the building last Tuesday. His fans were not disappointed, and we captured some of the show (and kisses) on video.
2012年3月20日星期二
Venus & Mars: Women Are Not the Only Ones With an Eye for Style
I have a cousin who spends hours digging through the closet to find the perfect outfit, only to spend a ridiculous amount of time in the bathroom, trying that outfit on.
Whenever we want to go out together, I usually end up waiting a long time before we actually hit the road. Typically female, many of you might think. But you're wrong — this cousin is a guy.
Fashion and style used to be something that seemingly concerned only women, but boy, has this changed. And boy, are we glad that it's changed, because it is nice to see well-dressed men from time-to-time, instead of sloppy ones.
But the operative phrase here is "from time-to-time."
Even though women are expected to spend a considerable amount of time leafing through fashion magazines to keep up with the latest trends, and to run to the mall to get discounted Kate Spade shoes, there are exceptions to that rule. Me, for example.
Sure, when I am invited to a wedding, a fancy dinner at an expensive restaurant or a formal reception at an embassy, I like to dress up, and have fun doing it, too. (Even though it often causes my friends to make remarks like "Oh my God, you look like a girl," or "I never knew you had actual legs beneath those jeans.")
But besides special occasions, casual is my motto. I never understood how women can torture themselves in the name of style by wearing high heels the whole day when sneakers are simply much more comfortable. I still feel sorry for ladies of centuries past who had difficulties breathing because they wore tight corsets to make their waists look slimmer.
It doesn't make any sense to me at all to buy branded clothing items and accessories just for the fun of it, and to show off to my friends. There must be better ways to spend my money. Instead of purchasing a ridiculously overpriced Louis Vuitton handbag or a dress from Valentino, I'd rather buy new books, toys for my dog or save for my next trip to Europe.
And the same goes for men. Sure, I like to look at them when they are well-preened, but I'm highly skeptical of a guy who spends most of his salary on Armani suits and Rolex watches, because fashion trends change and beauty fades.
We all want to look our best, but that can also be achieved without going bankrupt.
Katrin Figge is deputy features editor at the Jakarta Globe.
It's many men's chief complaint: Women spend too much money on fashion, buying clothes and shoes that they already seem to have in their closets. Not to mention accessories; having only a handful of bracelets and necklaces at home is not enough. If they could, they would buy accessories in every color to match their dresses or bags.
"Honey, don't you think that dress looks very similar to the one you bought a month ago?" a man might ask.
"No, it doesn't. This is the latest trend," she will likely reply. It's an understanding accepted in every country in the world that women have a good sense of fashion and style, while men tend to their own interests — cars, for example.
But things are changing. More and more men are starting to care about fashion, just as women do, or even more so. Is it wrong? Well, I don't think I'm the right person to judge. Let's just call it men's emancipation.
Whenever we want to go out together, I usually end up waiting a long time before we actually hit the road. Typically female, many of you might think. But you're wrong — this cousin is a guy.
Fashion and style used to be something that seemingly concerned only women, but boy, has this changed. And boy, are we glad that it's changed, because it is nice to see well-dressed men from time-to-time, instead of sloppy ones.
But the operative phrase here is "from time-to-time."
Even though women are expected to spend a considerable amount of time leafing through fashion magazines to keep up with the latest trends, and to run to the mall to get discounted Kate Spade shoes, there are exceptions to that rule. Me, for example.
Sure, when I am invited to a wedding, a fancy dinner at an expensive restaurant or a formal reception at an embassy, I like to dress up, and have fun doing it, too. (Even though it often causes my friends to make remarks like "Oh my God, you look like a girl," or "I never knew you had actual legs beneath those jeans.")
But besides special occasions, casual is my motto. I never understood how women can torture themselves in the name of style by wearing high heels the whole day when sneakers are simply much more comfortable. I still feel sorry for ladies of centuries past who had difficulties breathing because they wore tight corsets to make their waists look slimmer.
It doesn't make any sense to me at all to buy branded clothing items and accessories just for the fun of it, and to show off to my friends. There must be better ways to spend my money. Instead of purchasing a ridiculously overpriced Louis Vuitton handbag or a dress from Valentino, I'd rather buy new books, toys for my dog or save for my next trip to Europe.
And the same goes for men. Sure, I like to look at them when they are well-preened, but I'm highly skeptical of a guy who spends most of his salary on Armani suits and Rolex watches, because fashion trends change and beauty fades.
We all want to look our best, but that can also be achieved without going bankrupt.
Katrin Figge is deputy features editor at the Jakarta Globe.
It's many men's chief complaint: Women spend too much money on fashion, buying clothes and shoes that they already seem to have in their closets. Not to mention accessories; having only a handful of bracelets and necklaces at home is not enough. If they could, they would buy accessories in every color to match their dresses or bags.
"Honey, don't you think that dress looks very similar to the one you bought a month ago?" a man might ask.
"No, it doesn't. This is the latest trend," she will likely reply. It's an understanding accepted in every country in the world that women have a good sense of fashion and style, while men tend to their own interests — cars, for example.
But things are changing. More and more men are starting to care about fashion, just as women do, or even more so. Is it wrong? Well, I don't think I'm the right person to judge. Let's just call it men's emancipation.
2012年3月19日星期一
Indian icon succumbs to charms of Louis Vuitton
For generations it has been an Indian icon, the place where the country's left-leaning, intellectual elite get their village-made homespun clothes and, more recently, their organic mango chutney and ethnic-design furnishings.
But fans of Fabindia, though much too mild-mannered to be outraged, have been really quite concerned to discover that the internationally known ethical retailer with an annual turnover of 65m is now part-owned by a private investment firm sponsored by Louis Vuitton Moet Hennessy (LVMH), the luxury goods giant that includes brands such as Dior, Donna Karan, Thomas Pink, Bulgari and the eponymous bags.
"My friends have been sending me a Fabindia kurta (a traditional long-tailed shirt) on my birthday for decades," said Sadanand Menon, a well-known artist, choreographer and cultural commentator. "What are they going to send me now? I hope it's not a matching luggage set."
The association prompted questions from Tehelka, a campaigning magazine, which asked: "What will lefty intellectuals now wear to smart parties?" and from shoppers outside the Fabindia branch in Delhi's exclusive Khan Market.
"I suppose Louis Vuitton is all about craftsmanship and so on, but it's a big jump from some socialite's handbag or some fancy wine to dhurris [traditional rugs] from Rajasthan, isn't it?," said Pooja Chandra, 31.
A spokesman for Fabindia repeatedly stressed that the purchase of an 8% stake by L Capital Asia, a fund opened last year by LVMH to invest more than 400m in so-called aspirational brands, positioned between the luxury and the mass market on the continent, would not alter the company's outlook, products or working practices.
"Fabindia is going to stay Fabindia," said Prableen Sabhaney. "It is one of India's iconic brands and we are not going to change. But Fabindia is also a very successful mainstream business and this is our way of raising capital."
Established in 1960 by an American who had come to India on a Ford Foundation grant to advise the government on creating a market for handloom fabrics produced by artisans in remote rural areas, Fabindia originally focused on export. One big customer was Terence Conran's Habitat; Fabindia ended up supplying rugs and textiles to western living rooms for nearly three decades.
Unlike more conventional suppliers, John Bissell pioneered the idea of "fair trade", paying local communities much more than most retailers and allowing artisans and craftspeople to participate actively as suppliers and shareholders.
Crucially, too, Bissell adapted traditional designs to western tastes.
"He added colour, changed designs. It made a huge difference," said Radhika Singh, author of The Fabric of Our Lives, a book about the company.
A shop in Delhi was opened in 1976, but real expansion came following liberal economic reforms in India in the early 1990s, which not only boosted the purchasing power of the urban middle class, but simultaneously created a desire for "authentic" rural Indian products in a rapidly changing society.
"Fabindia took [clothing] which had once been associated with Gandhi and village life and converted it into a symbol not just of the poor, but of chic, too. It became very popular," said Menon, the artist.
Over the last decade, said Singh, the author, a new strategy has aimed to turn Fabindia into a global brand satisfying "different kinds of clients and consumers", with new stores opening in the Middle East and Europe. There are now 148 shops in 63 cities in India and eight overseas, with more due to open soon.
But fans of Fabindia, though much too mild-mannered to be outraged, have been really quite concerned to discover that the internationally known ethical retailer with an annual turnover of 65m is now part-owned by a private investment firm sponsored by Louis Vuitton Moet Hennessy (LVMH), the luxury goods giant that includes brands such as Dior, Donna Karan, Thomas Pink, Bulgari and the eponymous bags.
"My friends have been sending me a Fabindia kurta (a traditional long-tailed shirt) on my birthday for decades," said Sadanand Menon, a well-known artist, choreographer and cultural commentator. "What are they going to send me now? I hope it's not a matching luggage set."
The association prompted questions from Tehelka, a campaigning magazine, which asked: "What will lefty intellectuals now wear to smart parties?" and from shoppers outside the Fabindia branch in Delhi's exclusive Khan Market.
"I suppose Louis Vuitton is all about craftsmanship and so on, but it's a big jump from some socialite's handbag or some fancy wine to dhurris [traditional rugs] from Rajasthan, isn't it?," said Pooja Chandra, 31.
A spokesman for Fabindia repeatedly stressed that the purchase of an 8% stake by L Capital Asia, a fund opened last year by LVMH to invest more than 400m in so-called aspirational brands, positioned between the luxury and the mass market on the continent, would not alter the company's outlook, products or working practices.
"Fabindia is going to stay Fabindia," said Prableen Sabhaney. "It is one of India's iconic brands and we are not going to change. But Fabindia is also a very successful mainstream business and this is our way of raising capital."
Established in 1960 by an American who had come to India on a Ford Foundation grant to advise the government on creating a market for handloom fabrics produced by artisans in remote rural areas, Fabindia originally focused on export. One big customer was Terence Conran's Habitat; Fabindia ended up supplying rugs and textiles to western living rooms for nearly three decades.
Unlike more conventional suppliers, John Bissell pioneered the idea of "fair trade", paying local communities much more than most retailers and allowing artisans and craftspeople to participate actively as suppliers and shareholders.
Crucially, too, Bissell adapted traditional designs to western tastes.
"He added colour, changed designs. It made a huge difference," said Radhika Singh, author of The Fabric of Our Lives, a book about the company.
A shop in Delhi was opened in 1976, but real expansion came following liberal economic reforms in India in the early 1990s, which not only boosted the purchasing power of the urban middle class, but simultaneously created a desire for "authentic" rural Indian products in a rapidly changing society.
"Fabindia took [clothing] which had once been associated with Gandhi and village life and converted it into a symbol not just of the poor, but of chic, too. It became very popular," said Menon, the artist.
Over the last decade, said Singh, the author, a new strategy has aimed to turn Fabindia into a global brand satisfying "different kinds of clients and consumers", with new stores opening in the Middle East and Europe. There are now 148 shops in 63 cities in India and eight overseas, with more due to open soon.
2012年3月18日星期日
Meghan McCain in Playboy: GOP Race 'Has Been so Lame'
There's been plenty of talk about how had John McCain won the 2008 presidential election, we would have a lightning rod vice-president in Sarah Palin.
We might have had quite a first daughter, too. Meghan McCain, the 27-year-old daughter of the veteran Arizona Republican, appears in the April edition of Playboy magazine and sounds off on number of issues.
Also read: Ann Coulter: I Called McCain 'Dickweed,' Not Douchebag
"You would have the craziest first daughter ever, who'd be making ridiculous headlines and hurting the administration every step of the way," McCain told Playboy. Any doubts she meant it were cleared up when she dished to the men's mag on everything from Briston Palin and the state of the GOP to shotguns.
We might have had quite a first daughter, too. Meghan McCain, the 27-year-old daughter of the veteran Arizona Republican, appears in the April edition of Playboy magazine and sounds off on number of issues.
Also read: Ann Coulter: I Called McCain 'Dickweed,' Not Douchebag
"You would have the craziest first daughter ever, who'd be making ridiculous headlines and hurting the administration every step of the way," McCain told Playboy. Any doubts she meant it were cleared up when she dished to the men's mag on everything from Briston Palin and the state of the GOP to shotguns.
2012年3月15日星期四
Stay-at-Home Dad: The Black Market
Just the term "Black Market" incites thoughts of society's underbelly. A place where actual pirates may sell pirated DVDs or even imitation Louis Vuitton leather goods that are made out of plastic. I recently found out about another seedy market right under our noses and none of our children are safe from it–the local school cafeteria!
My youngest son's elementary school doesn't have a proper cafeteria, and most of the kids brown bag their own lunches. As I may have mentioned in the past, my wife is a physician. It's not just the fact that she is a doctor, but she is a skinny doctor whose knowledge of nutrition has worked its way into our daily existence. This is a very good thing for my boys. My children seem to have not only inherited my side of the family's passion for chicken wings but also my genetic disposition for a large caboose. At this point I'm not even sure which comes first, the food or the butt; it's all a vicious circle. Regardless, since I do the grocery shopping, I can hear my wife's voice over and over in my head that I keep the junk food down to a minimum.
This ensures that when I make my kids' lunch bags I can regulate what their daily caloric intake is…or at least what I think it should be.
The other day I was a little surprised when I went to retrieve something from my son's backpack and I found a collection of Oreo wrappers and half-eaten candy bars at the bottom. When I asked him about my findings, our relationship quickly transformed from father and son to warden and inmate. It was like I had just found a prison shiv during a room shakedown.
Upon questioning, I found out that he was "trading" items at lunchtime. Not only was he trading, but he also seemed to be the kingpin of this operation. He told me of different "street" values of certain things. His organic turkey sandwich on gluten-free bread was practically worthless, but his bag of veggie puffs was worth its weight in gold to a select group of kids. He added that mustard wipes out the value of ANYTHING, and juice boxes were also marketable as some parents sign their kids up for school milk. All of his "healthy" choices carried some market price to be traded for junk.
He knew who had a penchant for certain things, had specific allergies, and even what kids brought in on specific days of the week. As he went on he told me that sometimes he would broker certain deals between kids and take a small percentage of the booty. You know, do a deal and grab a few cheese doodles and a chocolate chip cookie, a disgusting pairing for almost any adult but I guess if you are ten-year-old boy, cookies taste better when you have cheese powder residue still on your fingers.
All I could think of was Morgan Freeman's character in the Shawshank Redemption; a guy who knew how to get certain things for you. I was actually proud of him. I just hope next time he picks me up some Nutter Butters.
My youngest son's elementary school doesn't have a proper cafeteria, and most of the kids brown bag their own lunches. As I may have mentioned in the past, my wife is a physician. It's not just the fact that she is a doctor, but she is a skinny doctor whose knowledge of nutrition has worked its way into our daily existence. This is a very good thing for my boys. My children seem to have not only inherited my side of the family's passion for chicken wings but also my genetic disposition for a large caboose. At this point I'm not even sure which comes first, the food or the butt; it's all a vicious circle. Regardless, since I do the grocery shopping, I can hear my wife's voice over and over in my head that I keep the junk food down to a minimum.
This ensures that when I make my kids' lunch bags I can regulate what their daily caloric intake is…or at least what I think it should be.
The other day I was a little surprised when I went to retrieve something from my son's backpack and I found a collection of Oreo wrappers and half-eaten candy bars at the bottom. When I asked him about my findings, our relationship quickly transformed from father and son to warden and inmate. It was like I had just found a prison shiv during a room shakedown.
Upon questioning, I found out that he was "trading" items at lunchtime. Not only was he trading, but he also seemed to be the kingpin of this operation. He told me of different "street" values of certain things. His organic turkey sandwich on gluten-free bread was practically worthless, but his bag of veggie puffs was worth its weight in gold to a select group of kids. He added that mustard wipes out the value of ANYTHING, and juice boxes were also marketable as some parents sign their kids up for school milk. All of his "healthy" choices carried some market price to be traded for junk.
He knew who had a penchant for certain things, had specific allergies, and even what kids brought in on specific days of the week. As he went on he told me that sometimes he would broker certain deals between kids and take a small percentage of the booty. You know, do a deal and grab a few cheese doodles and a chocolate chip cookie, a disgusting pairing for almost any adult but I guess if you are ten-year-old boy, cookies taste better when you have cheese powder residue still on your fingers.
All I could think of was Morgan Freeman's character in the Shawshank Redemption; a guy who knew how to get certain things for you. I was actually proud of him. I just hope next time he picks me up some Nutter Butters.
2012年3月14日星期三
Growing wealth gap
The surging ranks of millionaires and the concentration of wealth in the commodities sector highlight how the benefits of Indonesia's revival are far from being evenly spread among classes and regions in the huge archipelago.
While Hermes bags change hands for up to US$50,000 (RM150,000) and buyers face a six-month wait for a US$1mil (RM3mil) Lamborghini super car, far-flung regions like Papua and Maluku struggle to provide basic public services.
About 100 million Indonesians – about 40% of the population – live on less than US$2 (RM6) a day, the World Bank says. Average wages at US$113 (RM339) are a third of China's.
About 60 million of Indonesia's 133 million-strong "middle class" spend between US$2 and US$4 (RM6 and RM12) a day, the World Bank says. A 1,500 rupiah (50 sen) per litre cut in fuel subsidies being considered by the government would push 2.4 million people below the poverty line, a study by the University of Indonesia found.
"I don't feel middle-class, I feel poor," said 21-year-old Siti Aisah, who runs a shack selling snacks to construction workers that is almost in the shadow of Fitria's sprawling house in a Jakarta suburb. She said her family can afford to spend about US$10 (RM30) on good days – middle-class by some measures.
Corruption-prone governance, poor infrastructure, low spending on social welfare and health, and the business dominance of a relatively few families contribute to entrench inequality.
"Indonesia's tiny stratum of ultra-wealthy citizens continues to be plumped up by a process of wealth extraction from natural resources rather than by wealth creation through industry and production," said Jeffrey Winters, an associate professor at Yale University of the United States.
While Hermes bags change hands for up to US$50,000 (RM150,000) and buyers face a six-month wait for a US$1mil (RM3mil) Lamborghini super car, far-flung regions like Papua and Maluku struggle to provide basic public services.
About 100 million Indonesians – about 40% of the population – live on less than US$2 (RM6) a day, the World Bank says. Average wages at US$113 (RM339) are a third of China's.
About 60 million of Indonesia's 133 million-strong "middle class" spend between US$2 and US$4 (RM6 and RM12) a day, the World Bank says. A 1,500 rupiah (50 sen) per litre cut in fuel subsidies being considered by the government would push 2.4 million people below the poverty line, a study by the University of Indonesia found.
"I don't feel middle-class, I feel poor," said 21-year-old Siti Aisah, who runs a shack selling snacks to construction workers that is almost in the shadow of Fitria's sprawling house in a Jakarta suburb. She said her family can afford to spend about US$10 (RM30) on good days – middle-class by some measures.
Corruption-prone governance, poor infrastructure, low spending on social welfare and health, and the business dominance of a relatively few families contribute to entrench inequality.
"Indonesia's tiny stratum of ultra-wealthy citizens continues to be plumped up by a process of wealth extraction from natural resources rather than by wealth creation through industry and production," said Jeffrey Winters, an associate professor at Yale University of the United States.
2012年3月13日星期二
Miranda Kerr Spends the Afternoon With Frankie Following a Morning With Flynn
Miranda Kerr looked chic and ladylike while walking in NYC yesterday. The model sported a printed coat and sleek straight hairstyle while toting both her maroon Sofia Coppola for Louis Vuitton handbag and her Yorkshire Terrier, Frankie. Miranda's son Flynn Bloom wasn't with her, but we did get to see him in a cute pair of sneakers when the two touched down at JFK over the weekend.
Miranda has been staying busy this month with her whirlwind work schedule, including a Miami photo shoot for Victoria's Secret and a turn down the runway at Chanel during Paris Fashion Week. Her husband Orlando Bloom has been traveling as well, and was spotted landing at LAX on Saturday.
2012年3月12日星期一
Mob Wives – Episode 9 – Some F—ing Trip
What happens when you take any of our shows on the road? Mayhem, usually. And this week's installment of Mob Wives was no different. There was fighting, there were security guards, there was drunk-dialing, and then there were the fake teeth. Sexeh! In short, it was indeed "Some f—ing trip."
It might be Junior's birthday, but Renee's not giving him a completely free pass, she's noticed that he's been calling his ex-girlfriend, so she pesters him to see if the girlfriend sent him a birthday text, and he denies it. (Little does he know, Renee and the rest of us all know your phone's password, Junior!) Carla and Drita give Renee a call and she vents to them that she knows something is up.
"Going away to the Poconos should help me get rid of some of my stress," Renee says. SHOULD being the key word. "I'm so excited to get out there and maybe see a bear or a deer. I like all that sh*t," Carla says when they arrive at the house in the middle of nowhere, surrounded by God knows what kind of murderers in the woods.
For a weekend away, Renee has packed all her furs and Ramona has packed her entire Louis Vuitton luggage set, including a garment bag. (what Poconos-appropriate gear requires a garment bag? I'll never know.)
Renee says she's not planning to take her anti-depressants all weekend, and that, coupled with the devil water (a.k.a. vodka) she's pounding equals Renee going off about Junior's ex-girlfriend that she repeatedly threatens to stab in the neck with her barber scissors. The ex keeps trying to contact Junior and Renee's not about to back down. I get that Renee is riled up about it, but it's not making for a very relaxing vacation. Ramona looks ready to zip herself into her Louis V garment bag to get away.
It might be Junior's birthday, but Renee's not giving him a completely free pass, she's noticed that he's been calling his ex-girlfriend, so she pesters him to see if the girlfriend sent him a birthday text, and he denies it. (Little does he know, Renee and the rest of us all know your phone's password, Junior!) Carla and Drita give Renee a call and she vents to them that she knows something is up.
"Going away to the Poconos should help me get rid of some of my stress," Renee says. SHOULD being the key word. "I'm so excited to get out there and maybe see a bear or a deer. I like all that sh*t," Carla says when they arrive at the house in the middle of nowhere, surrounded by God knows what kind of murderers in the woods.
For a weekend away, Renee has packed all her furs and Ramona has packed her entire Louis Vuitton luggage set, including a garment bag. (what Poconos-appropriate gear requires a garment bag? I'll never know.)
Renee says she's not planning to take her anti-depressants all weekend, and that, coupled with the devil water (a.k.a. vodka) she's pounding equals Renee going off about Junior's ex-girlfriend that she repeatedly threatens to stab in the neck with her barber scissors. The ex keeps trying to contact Junior and Renee's not about to back down. I get that Renee is riled up about it, but it's not making for a very relaxing vacation. Ramona looks ready to zip herself into her Louis V garment bag to get away.
2012年3月11日星期日
This week in China
China's political elite have but one opportunity each year to put the "party" into "National Party Congress," and darn it, that time is now. While there was the usual yada yada about slowing growth, those-in-the-know know the hottest news is not found in the speeches. Kreminlogists came out of the woodwork to note that Bo Xilai's chair was slighty distanced from Xu Caihou, proving he's been completely cut off from the Politburo. Fashionistas displayed their bling in full force: Marc Jacobs and Birkin bags were only some of the more subtle touches. "It's a suit of fury," Li Xiaolin told reporters of her US$2,000 bright-pink Emilio Pucci suit. "Gotta be dressed to [expletive] kill." (The proletariat masses just don't appreciate.) Media was also in top form: The always-edgy alternative newspaper People's Daily wisely trained its taxpayer-funded cameras on the fairer sex, from killer event staff to hot journalists (who were themselves busy with lamestream mainstream media activities such as asking questions). Of course, every party has a pooper. Property developers spared no opportunity to moan about impending doom, and steel industry magnates waxed lyrical about their bloated industry. "I do think that [government property] measures are overly strict and in effect for too long," said Huang Wenzai, chairman of luxury-property developer Star River Group. "Unlike this baby," he added with a smile, pointing down to his Hermes-branded belt.
Don't know what you've got till it's gone
This week saw the bust of one of the largest counterfeiting rings in US history, as authorities charged 29 people with smuggling US$325 million of fake products into the US. No doubt with the help of some down-on-their-luck Frank-Sobotka types, the group was smuggling in products including fake cigarettes, Nike and UGG footwear, and Coach and Louis Vuitton handbags. Port authorities caught wind of the plot when a middle-aged Chinese lady approached them waving a card with pictures of handbags and shouting "Cheaper for you!" In the days that followed, America began to collectively mourn its loss of cheap UGG boots – moving quickly through denial and anger, spending a bit more time bargaining, before taking a quick dip into depression and, finally, acceptance. Experts say this could be a preview of the emotional rollercoaster the nation faces in coming months as DC's new bipartisan legislation designed to turn the nation into the leader in global shopping-bag-making comes into effect. Opined the People's Daily: "Experts said that cheap but good Chinese products have brought tangible benefits to Americans by giving them more choices and reducing the country's inflation rate." No one knows the truth of this better than Chinese commerce minister Chen Deming, who took that sword of righteousness and brought the smack down. We at CER all cheered to see a Chinese official become, for the first time, quotable. "We follow the rules of the WTO, but we have no obligation to follow domestic laws or regulations in any specific country that go beyond international rules," he said. Zing! Chen also noted that China's overall trade surplus was only US$150 billion, but its trade surplus with the US was US$200 billion, adding, "Every man, free from prejudice and armed with common-sense economics, can come to the right conclusion." Ka-bam! Take that, America.
Don't know what you've got till it's gone
This week saw the bust of one of the largest counterfeiting rings in US history, as authorities charged 29 people with smuggling US$325 million of fake products into the US. No doubt with the help of some down-on-their-luck Frank-Sobotka types, the group was smuggling in products including fake cigarettes, Nike and UGG footwear, and Coach and Louis Vuitton handbags. Port authorities caught wind of the plot when a middle-aged Chinese lady approached them waving a card with pictures of handbags and shouting "Cheaper for you!" In the days that followed, America began to collectively mourn its loss of cheap UGG boots – moving quickly through denial and anger, spending a bit more time bargaining, before taking a quick dip into depression and, finally, acceptance. Experts say this could be a preview of the emotional rollercoaster the nation faces in coming months as DC's new bipartisan legislation designed to turn the nation into the leader in global shopping-bag-making comes into effect. Opined the People's Daily: "Experts said that cheap but good Chinese products have brought tangible benefits to Americans by giving them more choices and reducing the country's inflation rate." No one knows the truth of this better than Chinese commerce minister Chen Deming, who took that sword of righteousness and brought the smack down. We at CER all cheered to see a Chinese official become, for the first time, quotable. "We follow the rules of the WTO, but we have no obligation to follow domestic laws or regulations in any specific country that go beyond international rules," he said. Zing! Chen also noted that China's overall trade surplus was only US$150 billion, but its trade surplus with the US was US$200 billion, adding, "Every man, free from prejudice and armed with common-sense economics, can come to the right conclusion." Ka-bam! Take that, America.
2012年3月8日星期四
She means business! Dakota Fanning wears over-the-knee socks and miniskirt for meeting
She wore a very vibrant red pleated skirt which showed off her long legs and which she accentuated even more with knee-high black socks and wedged ankle boots.
Dakota teamed the skirt with a white blouse and black jacket and she carried a navy blue bag by Sophia Coppola for Louis Vuitton which costs and eye-watering $4,000.
And her long blonde hair hung loose over her face and she hid her eyes from the sun with big black shades.
But it was a very different Dakota who was snapped a few hours later as she headed to the gym.
She was snapped as she left her workout texting furiously on her phone as she walked home in trainers, short leggings and a denim shirt - but she still had her very expensive designer handbag on her arm.
Dakota, who shot to fame aged ten when she starred alongside Denzel Washington in Man On Fire, will soon start promoting her new movie Now Is Good.
The film, which is released in May, sees Dakota in the role of Tessa Scott, a terminally-ill teenager who makes a 'bucket list' of things she wants to do before she dies.
As well as some high octane stuff it also includes losing her virginity.
Jeremy Irvine, who is starring in Steven Spielberg's upcoming film adaptation of War Horse, plays her love interest Adam and it also stars Paddy Considine, former Skins star Kaya Scodelario and Olivia Williams.
Fans of the actress will also have seen here lately in the last two instalments of the Twilight series, Breaking Dawn Part 1 and Eclipse before that.
Dakota teamed the skirt with a white blouse and black jacket and she carried a navy blue bag by Sophia Coppola for Louis Vuitton which costs and eye-watering $4,000.
And her long blonde hair hung loose over her face and she hid her eyes from the sun with big black shades.
But it was a very different Dakota who was snapped a few hours later as she headed to the gym.
She was snapped as she left her workout texting furiously on her phone as she walked home in trainers, short leggings and a denim shirt - but she still had her very expensive designer handbag on her arm.
Dakota, who shot to fame aged ten when she starred alongside Denzel Washington in Man On Fire, will soon start promoting her new movie Now Is Good.
The film, which is released in May, sees Dakota in the role of Tessa Scott, a terminally-ill teenager who makes a 'bucket list' of things she wants to do before she dies.
As well as some high octane stuff it also includes losing her virginity.
Jeremy Irvine, who is starring in Steven Spielberg's upcoming film adaptation of War Horse, plays her love interest Adam and it also stars Paddy Considine, former Skins star Kaya Scodelario and Olivia Williams.
Fans of the actress will also have seen here lately in the last two instalments of the Twilight series, Breaking Dawn Part 1 and Eclipse before that.
2012年3月7日星期三
Miu Miu's Fall 2012 Show in Paris Gets an Amazing Young Hollywood Showing
Miuccia Prada showed one of her very best Miu Miu collections for fall winter 2012 in Paris on Wednesday, filled with strong suits in bright color combos -- very Carnaby Street - and mini dresses festooned with giant matte rock crystals. Even the eyemakeup had a strong sixties/seventies element. Just remember you heard it here first: the dress over pants look is baaccckkkkkk . . .
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Model Andrej Pejik Plays Both Sides at Paris Fashion Week
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STORY: Model Andrej Pejik Plays Both Sides at Paris Fashion Week
It's not everyday a brand gets a strong row that's got Mia Wasikowska -- an avowed fan of the brand, who wears it often -- Katy Perry, Midnight in Paris star Lea Seydoux, Kate Mara, Brit Marling, British singer Corinne Bailey Rae, and a number of young French stars. It's the best celeb turn out in Paris so far, so the Wednesday night opening of the Marc Jacobs-Louis Vuitton museum show at Les Art Decoratif in Paris will certainly be a hot ticket tonight.
Wasikowska wore a bicolor dress with a Miu Miu orchid pink top and a black flared skirt, with nude patent pumps; Seydoux wore a Prada (sister brand) black lace dress, a clutch and two town leather wedges with flames; Perry wore a blue coat and a flame print chiffon dress by Prada -- plus the bag of the season, the Saffiano lux Pyramide with studs - and Mara wore a red nappa leather trench and red silk shorts by Miu Miu. Quite a nice showing for all -- but particularly, for the brand.
our editor recommends
Model Andrej Pejik Plays Both Sides at Paris Fashion Week
Paris Fashion: Kristen Stewart Rocks Leather Pants at Balenciaga, Mila Kunis Does Demure Dior
STORY: Model Andrej Pejik Plays Both Sides at Paris Fashion Week
It's not everyday a brand gets a strong row that's got Mia Wasikowska -- an avowed fan of the brand, who wears it often -- Katy Perry, Midnight in Paris star Lea Seydoux, Kate Mara, Brit Marling, British singer Corinne Bailey Rae, and a number of young French stars. It's the best celeb turn out in Paris so far, so the Wednesday night opening of the Marc Jacobs-Louis Vuitton museum show at Les Art Decoratif in Paris will certainly be a hot ticket tonight.
Wasikowska wore a bicolor dress with a Miu Miu orchid pink top and a black flared skirt, with nude patent pumps; Seydoux wore a Prada (sister brand) black lace dress, a clutch and two town leather wedges with flames; Perry wore a blue coat and a flame print chiffon dress by Prada -- plus the bag of the season, the Saffiano lux Pyramide with studs - and Mara wore a red nappa leather trench and red silk shorts by Miu Miu. Quite a nice showing for all -- but particularly, for the brand.
2012年3月6日星期二
Chanel Fall-Winter 2012-2013 Collection
I'm frowning ladies collection of Chanel autumn / winter 2012-2013. It's the penultimate day of Paris Fashion Week schedule and finally we can admire the collection designed by Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel. A very easy chic collection that revisits actualizes some basic pieces of the house. Among the models on stage, there is also a new mom, and Victoria's Secret Angel, Miranda Kerr.
And after the grand parade of Yves Saint Laurent, Stefano Pilati for the last, which closed the day yesterday, it's time we talk about today's catwalks. The penultimate day of Paris Fashion is full of big names. Soon I will talk about the collection designed by Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel, but I want to remind you that today we will see on the catwalk, including Valentino and Alexander McQueen. And good morning opens with the great Louis Vuitton sgfilata! But back to us and talk about what happened this morning at Chanel.
What we saw on the catwalk? Cool colors, from blue and cold climate denoted by the white ice. Among these are grafted with a warmer tone to brighten the atmosphere.
In the evening she prefers Chanel elegance and transparency of pleated blouses, and full of bon ton. Back to black for formal occasions, but for the most easy, Chanel offers leaders declined in metallic blue and silver.
Among the accessories are proposed new version of it bag of the house, the legendary 2.55, and also some important news that we have right now as fascinated Bag Boy. I remember the backpack typical of 80-90 years of Chanel? He was there too! Every now and come back!
And after the grand parade of Yves Saint Laurent, Stefano Pilati for the last, which closed the day yesterday, it's time we talk about today's catwalks. The penultimate day of Paris Fashion is full of big names. Soon I will talk about the collection designed by Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel, but I want to remind you that today we will see on the catwalk, including Valentino and Alexander McQueen. And good morning opens with the great Louis Vuitton sgfilata! But back to us and talk about what happened this morning at Chanel.
What we saw on the catwalk? Cool colors, from blue and cold climate denoted by the white ice. Among these are grafted with a warmer tone to brighten the atmosphere.
In the evening she prefers Chanel elegance and transparency of pleated blouses, and full of bon ton. Back to black for formal occasions, but for the most easy, Chanel offers leaders declined in metallic blue and silver.
Among the accessories are proposed new version of it bag of the house, the legendary 2.55, and also some important news that we have right now as fascinated Bag Boy. I remember the backpack typical of 80-90 years of Chanel? He was there too! Every now and come back!
2012年3月5日星期一
Teen Mom star Jenelle Evans arrested AGAIN
Teem Mom star Jenelle Evans has been arrested AGAIN - this this time for stalking a former friend she is engaged in a feud with.
A spokesman for the Brunswick County Sheriff's Office confirmed the 20-year-old reality television personality was arrested in North Carolina today.
She was booked into the Brunswick County Detention Centre and received a bond of $1,000 for the charge.
She was bailed out of jail shortly after surrendering to the warrant filed against her by a former friend James Duffy.
Her arrest came a day after she was spotted stuffing her face with pizza while carrying an $800 Louis Vuitton handbag in New York City.
She was arrested on a misdemeanor charge of cyberstalking, said Sgt. Del Routh, a spokesman for the Brunswick County Sheriff's Office.
Nice bag: Jenelle Evans twinned her $800 Louis Vuitton handbag with a hooded top and pizza
James Duffy, the man against whom Evans has filed a cyberstalking charge, told Hollywoodlife.com that he filed a cyberstalking charge against Evans late last week.
Evans' attorney, Dustin Sullivan, did not immediately return a call Monday afternoon for comment.
She posted a $1,000 bail and was released by 2:30 p.m., according to online custody records.
Her court date is scheduled for April 2, a release from the sheriff's office stated.
Evans, 20, has been having an ongoing legal battle her former roommate Hannah Inman and James Duffy.
In January she filed a complaint against Duffy, accusing him of permitting a Twitter account to be used to 'hreaten, embarrass and post address of plaintiff.'
A spokesman for the Brunswick County Sheriff's Office confirmed the 20-year-old reality television personality was arrested in North Carolina today.
She was booked into the Brunswick County Detention Centre and received a bond of $1,000 for the charge.
She was bailed out of jail shortly after surrendering to the warrant filed against her by a former friend James Duffy.
Her arrest came a day after she was spotted stuffing her face with pizza while carrying an $800 Louis Vuitton handbag in New York City.
She was arrested on a misdemeanor charge of cyberstalking, said Sgt. Del Routh, a spokesman for the Brunswick County Sheriff's Office.
Nice bag: Jenelle Evans twinned her $800 Louis Vuitton handbag with a hooded top and pizza
James Duffy, the man against whom Evans has filed a cyberstalking charge, told Hollywoodlife.com that he filed a cyberstalking charge against Evans late last week.
Evans' attorney, Dustin Sullivan, did not immediately return a call Monday afternoon for comment.
She posted a $1,000 bail and was released by 2:30 p.m., according to online custody records.
Her court date is scheduled for April 2, a release from the sheriff's office stated.
Evans, 20, has been having an ongoing legal battle her former roommate Hannah Inman and James Duffy.
In January she filed a complaint against Duffy, accusing him of permitting a Twitter account to be used to 'hreaten, embarrass and post address of plaintiff.'
2012年3月4日星期日
Shanghai is too big to fail to be enjoyed
A rainy night in Shanghai. Neon lights reflect violet-pink-yellow-red in puddles along Nanjing Road East, a pedestrian-only commercial district where 21st-century high-tech buildings bump against 1930s Art Deco wonders. Umbrellas snap open as shoppers scurry past Westernized clothing boutiques, electronic stores, high-end jewelry shops, and brightly-lighted fast food emporiums with familiar names: KFC, McDonald's, Pizza Hut, Wendy's.
I am dodging raindrops with Jenny O'Connor, my niece, who traveled to meet me from her home in Guangzhou. (She moved there two years ago with her husband and their four children for his job at the State Department.) We are hungry, but I have not endured 14 1/2 hours on a plane from Chicago to eat a fast food burger with fries, so we turn down a side street and wander till we find an appropriate place to dine.
The menu, with glossy photos and English subtitles, offers all manner of duck - spicy fragrant neck, delicious duck feet, glutinous duck tongue, spicy hot duck's head - as well as stir-fried ox tongue, snake head hot pot, natural bean dregs soup, hot and spicy cooked gizzard's blood, brine pig's tail, sauteed old frog, and palatable black fungus.
Off Taikang Road we discover an artsy tangle of lanes and old brick buildings. Galleries abound as well as crafts and clothing boutiques. It is where the young come to shop, eat, see, and be seen. It is big enough to feel as if we are getting lost but not so big that we worry we are. We find a book on Art Deco Shanghai in The Old China Hand Reading Room, a bookstore, art gallery, and tearoom run by photographer Deke Ehr. In Woo, we are tempted to buy luscious pashminas, woven capes, and scarves. I almost spring for an industrial-inspired bag but decide to save my money for lunch.
We snag a cab and hand the driver a card for the spicy Hunan restaurant Guyi. We have heard it is a local favorite, always busy, no reservations, expect a line. We arrive at 3 p.m. and find it empty. No one sits beneath the crystal chandeliers at tables set with crisp white cloths, except the staff dining in the far corner. It is open? Yes. We are handed a voluminous menu with snappy color photos and order by pointing. Jenny knows the word for beer: "pi jiu."
Chicken with fresh bamboo shoots, chilies, and cilantro arrives in a cast iron wok. Purple baby eggplant and green beans with red pepper are eye-popping bright and sufficiently spicy. The only thing missing? Napkins.
"I rarely find napkins in restaurants in China," says Jenny, confessing she often slides the tablecloth across her lap.
I am dodging raindrops with Jenny O'Connor, my niece, who traveled to meet me from her home in Guangzhou. (She moved there two years ago with her husband and their four children for his job at the State Department.) We are hungry, but I have not endured 14 1/2 hours on a plane from Chicago to eat a fast food burger with fries, so we turn down a side street and wander till we find an appropriate place to dine.
The menu, with glossy photos and English subtitles, offers all manner of duck - spicy fragrant neck, delicious duck feet, glutinous duck tongue, spicy hot duck's head - as well as stir-fried ox tongue, snake head hot pot, natural bean dregs soup, hot and spicy cooked gizzard's blood, brine pig's tail, sauteed old frog, and palatable black fungus.
Off Taikang Road we discover an artsy tangle of lanes and old brick buildings. Galleries abound as well as crafts and clothing boutiques. It is where the young come to shop, eat, see, and be seen. It is big enough to feel as if we are getting lost but not so big that we worry we are. We find a book on Art Deco Shanghai in The Old China Hand Reading Room, a bookstore, art gallery, and tearoom run by photographer Deke Ehr. In Woo, we are tempted to buy luscious pashminas, woven capes, and scarves. I almost spring for an industrial-inspired bag but decide to save my money for lunch.
We snag a cab and hand the driver a card for the spicy Hunan restaurant Guyi. We have heard it is a local favorite, always busy, no reservations, expect a line. We arrive at 3 p.m. and find it empty. No one sits beneath the crystal chandeliers at tables set with crisp white cloths, except the staff dining in the far corner. It is open? Yes. We are handed a voluminous menu with snappy color photos and order by pointing. Jenny knows the word for beer: "pi jiu."
Chicken with fresh bamboo shoots, chilies, and cilantro arrives in a cast iron wok. Purple baby eggplant and green beans with red pepper are eye-popping bright and sufficiently spicy. The only thing missing? Napkins.
"I rarely find napkins in restaurants in China," says Jenny, confessing she often slides the tablecloth across her lap.
2012年3月1日星期四
Why Drive to Vegas? Mayra's Wedding Chapel Is Right Here in East Hollywood
Here comes the bride, all dressed in cream satin, with a sparkly brooch on her hip. "They've been together for a very, very long time. Like, two years?" says Yesenia Villanueva, 22, the bride's classmate in nursing school.
Driving north on Normandie Avenue, just before the road crests and the Griffith Observatory comes into view, signs advertising the only business between Beverly and Melrose ask, "Why go to Vegas? Marriages -- $170.00 -- Matrimonios."
Why indeed? This is Mayra's Wedding Chapel, and officiating today, as on most days, is Lindabelle Montero, imperious in her burgundy minister's robe and black, high-heeled ankle boots. Montero, 40, lives with her sons in the back of the house, works at a desk in the foyer and performs weddings in between.
It was Montero's mother, Mayra Sossa, who decided to transform the living room into a nondenominational wedding chapel in 1986, much to her then-teenage daughter's dismay. Despite dreams of being a singer and an actress, Montero became a notary at 18, a Universal Life Church minister at 21 and her mother's eventual successor as East Hollywood's marriage and legal-work linchpin.
"Thank you all," Montero says. "We're gathered here today in the presence of these two people to unite them in legal matrimony."
The bride and groom, Emily and Manuel, stand before 12 friends on ceramic tiles that look like wood, beneath a $600 fiberglass bower with Ionic columns, brimming with fake flowers. The chapel seats about 20, with a love seat, a couch and 17 mismatched chairs cloaked in white and adorned with translucent gold ribbon. Chiffon billows over doors and windows, and angel figurines -- some gold, some sparkly; some clothed, many not -- pepper the room.
On the couch in the back, a voluptuous woman answers her iPhone in a low voice, listens intently and begins rifling through her fake Louis Vuitton bag.
"Raise your right hands," Montero says. "Do you both swear that the information you provided on your license is true, and so help you God?"
Most clients are Filipino or Latino and live within walking distance of the chapel, Montero says. But she's also married numerous Koreans, Scandinavians, Russians, Armenians, Jews, Hindus and Africans, along with a man who claimed to be an executive producer on the movie As Good As It Gets (via their assistants, the men credited as executive producers of that film both deny any Mayra marriages). Once, at 3 a.m., Montero married an Oakland Raiders player ("I got the kick of the alcohol as he was repeating his vows. We got, like, five calls from his attorney the next morning").
Montero married several gay couples in 2008 and still offers commitment ceremonies, but she draws the line at Muslims, "just because of what's happened since 9/11."
Not that any terrorists could make it past the security cameras, barred windows and bolted locks. Those were installed after the family was robbed at gunpoint in 2001, when Montero was seven and a half months pregnant. When the disheveled woman aiding the robbery attempted to tie up mother and daughter, Montero's mother slipped away and ran screaming onto Normandie, forcing the criminals to flee.
"Girl, my mom is no joke," Montero says. "Snap, she's dynamite, a feisty little lady."
Sossa, Montero's mother, emigrated from Costa Rica in 1969 and established the chapel after a day care center proved too stressful. Though she still answers phone calls and monitors the video feed, the 65-year-old Sossa no longer lives on-site. She spends the majority of her time at her nearby home with Lindabelle's half-brother, 31, who is mentally disabled.
Driving north on Normandie Avenue, just before the road crests and the Griffith Observatory comes into view, signs advertising the only business between Beverly and Melrose ask, "Why go to Vegas? Marriages -- $170.00 -- Matrimonios."
Why indeed? This is Mayra's Wedding Chapel, and officiating today, as on most days, is Lindabelle Montero, imperious in her burgundy minister's robe and black, high-heeled ankle boots. Montero, 40, lives with her sons in the back of the house, works at a desk in the foyer and performs weddings in between.
It was Montero's mother, Mayra Sossa, who decided to transform the living room into a nondenominational wedding chapel in 1986, much to her then-teenage daughter's dismay. Despite dreams of being a singer and an actress, Montero became a notary at 18, a Universal Life Church minister at 21 and her mother's eventual successor as East Hollywood's marriage and legal-work linchpin.
"Thank you all," Montero says. "We're gathered here today in the presence of these two people to unite them in legal matrimony."
The bride and groom, Emily and Manuel, stand before 12 friends on ceramic tiles that look like wood, beneath a $600 fiberglass bower with Ionic columns, brimming with fake flowers. The chapel seats about 20, with a love seat, a couch and 17 mismatched chairs cloaked in white and adorned with translucent gold ribbon. Chiffon billows over doors and windows, and angel figurines -- some gold, some sparkly; some clothed, many not -- pepper the room.
On the couch in the back, a voluptuous woman answers her iPhone in a low voice, listens intently and begins rifling through her fake Louis Vuitton bag.
"Raise your right hands," Montero says. "Do you both swear that the information you provided on your license is true, and so help you God?"
Most clients are Filipino or Latino and live within walking distance of the chapel, Montero says. But she's also married numerous Koreans, Scandinavians, Russians, Armenians, Jews, Hindus and Africans, along with a man who claimed to be an executive producer on the movie As Good As It Gets (via their assistants, the men credited as executive producers of that film both deny any Mayra marriages). Once, at 3 a.m., Montero married an Oakland Raiders player ("I got the kick of the alcohol as he was repeating his vows. We got, like, five calls from his attorney the next morning").
Montero married several gay couples in 2008 and still offers commitment ceremonies, but she draws the line at Muslims, "just because of what's happened since 9/11."
Not that any terrorists could make it past the security cameras, barred windows and bolted locks. Those were installed after the family was robbed at gunpoint in 2001, when Montero was seven and a half months pregnant. When the disheveled woman aiding the robbery attempted to tie up mother and daughter, Montero's mother slipped away and ran screaming onto Normandie, forcing the criminals to flee.
"Girl, my mom is no joke," Montero says. "Snap, she's dynamite, a feisty little lady."
Sossa, Montero's mother, emigrated from Costa Rica in 1969 and established the chapel after a day care center proved too stressful. Though she still answers phone calls and monitors the video feed, the 65-year-old Sossa no longer lives on-site. She spends the majority of her time at her nearby home with Lindabelle's half-brother, 31, who is mentally disabled.
2012年2月29日星期三
Looks I Loved At The Oscars 2012
The 69th Annual Gold Globes, also known as the 2012 Oscars, was held at the Hollywood & Highland Center on Sunday 26th February in Hollywood, California and as usual, it was all about what everyone was wearing.
I'm always a fan of Oscar fashion, but this year, for me, it was quite a disappointment. I found the red carpet dresses to be quite dull and not very interesting. I much preferred some of the Vanity Fair and Elton John's party dresses. But as the Oscars go, this is definitely my least favourite year so far. I have piled together some photos of the dresses I loved though, there are about 16 and I think they are gorgeous!
Above is Claire Danes. She looked so pretty and feminine in her Valentino dress which she paired with Christian Louboutin heels, a Lanvin clutch, a Van Cleef & Arpels bracelet and some Tiffany & Co. earrings. I think she looks amazing! I honestly love everything about this look and the dress is just stunning. This was definitely my favourite of the whole evening!
Emma Stone looked amazing in red! She wore a Giambattista Valli Haute Couture dress with Brian Atwood heels with a Louis Vuitton bag and jewellery. The cut of this gown is so pretty! It's really flattering and striking at the same time. I think the bow around the neckline really makes it dramatic as well!
Sofia Vergara is always gorgeous! She wore a strapless Roberto Cavalli gown with some Casadei heels, a Judith Leiber bag and Lorraine Schwartz jewellery. I think she looks stunning and this is a dress that I could see someone getting married in! It's definitely beautiful!
I thought Natalie Portman looked so cute in her vintage Dior Haute Couture dress from the 1954 collection! I love the polka dots on it! Natalie was one for me that wasn't afraid to try out something different and polka dots are a trend that is creeping back up again. She wore Dior heels, a Charlotte Olympia bag and some Harry Winston jewels for the night too.
I'm always a fan of Oscar fashion, but this year, for me, it was quite a disappointment. I found the red carpet dresses to be quite dull and not very interesting. I much preferred some of the Vanity Fair and Elton John's party dresses. But as the Oscars go, this is definitely my least favourite year so far. I have piled together some photos of the dresses I loved though, there are about 16 and I think they are gorgeous!
Above is Claire Danes. She looked so pretty and feminine in her Valentino dress which she paired with Christian Louboutin heels, a Lanvin clutch, a Van Cleef & Arpels bracelet and some Tiffany & Co. earrings. I think she looks amazing! I honestly love everything about this look and the dress is just stunning. This was definitely my favourite of the whole evening!
Emma Stone looked amazing in red! She wore a Giambattista Valli Haute Couture dress with Brian Atwood heels with a Louis Vuitton bag and jewellery. The cut of this gown is so pretty! It's really flattering and striking at the same time. I think the bow around the neckline really makes it dramatic as well!
Sofia Vergara is always gorgeous! She wore a strapless Roberto Cavalli gown with some Casadei heels, a Judith Leiber bag and Lorraine Schwartz jewellery. I think she looks stunning and this is a dress that I could see someone getting married in! It's definitely beautiful!
I thought Natalie Portman looked so cute in her vintage Dior Haute Couture dress from the 1954 collection! I love the polka dots on it! Natalie was one for me that wasn't afraid to try out something different and polka dots are a trend that is creeping back up again. She wore Dior heels, a Charlotte Olympia bag and some Harry Winston jewels for the night too.
2012年2月28日星期二
Glam Rok
Glam Rok Hawaii is a brand resale consignment boutique. We offer pre-loved and new designer jeans, cute trendy clothes, authentic designer handbags, sunglasses, shoes and jewelry. Glam Rok is your one stop shop for the entire outfit.
Glam Rok carries popular clothing brands such as Bebe, Ed Hardy, Christian Audigier, Smet, Juicy Couture, Free People, Sky, Roxy, Abercrombie and Fitch, Forever 21, Arden B, Manuhealii, Hello Kitty, Guess, just to name a bunch.
Also, we feature only premium designer denim, such as Seven for all Mankind, Joe's, Citizens of Humanity, Rock and Republic, True Religion, Frankie B., Hudson, J Brand and Diesel. But not everyone is a jeans girl, so we also carry an assortment of tops, skirt, shorts, and dresses from all your favorite brands and much more!
However no outfit is complete without the proper accessories! Glam Rok also carries authentic designer bags, sunglasses and shoes from Louis Vuitton, Dior, Gucci, Chanel, Bvlgari, Coach, Dooney and Bourke, among others.
At Glam Rok, we believe that that every woman deserves to be glamorous! Our motto is glamour at Rok bottom prices!
Glam Rok carries popular clothing brands such as Bebe, Ed Hardy, Christian Audigier, Smet, Juicy Couture, Free People, Sky, Roxy, Abercrombie and Fitch, Forever 21, Arden B, Manuhealii, Hello Kitty, Guess, just to name a bunch.
Also, we feature only premium designer denim, such as Seven for all Mankind, Joe's, Citizens of Humanity, Rock and Republic, True Religion, Frankie B., Hudson, J Brand and Diesel. But not everyone is a jeans girl, so we also carry an assortment of tops, skirt, shorts, and dresses from all your favorite brands and much more!
However no outfit is complete without the proper accessories! Glam Rok also carries authentic designer bags, sunglasses and shoes from Louis Vuitton, Dior, Gucci, Chanel, Bvlgari, Coach, Dooney and Bourke, among others.
At Glam Rok, we believe that that every woman deserves to be glamorous! Our motto is glamour at Rok bottom prices!
2012年2月27日星期一
Glam Slam: Oscar Glam!
We had such a good time walking the red carpet and then checking out all the stars and they did not disappoint!!!! Loads of big time “movie stahhh” glamour, dahling!
Here are a few of my fashion favorites:
Let's start with Jennifer Lopez. LOVE! LOVE! LOVE!
Go big or go home seems to be her motto and she went for it with her custom couture Zuhair Murad gown — a Deco delight. The nude silk gown features a plunging neckline and is hand-embroidered with transparent crystal beading. She completed the look with Jimmy Choo shoes, Lorraine Schwartz jewelry and a mirrored Salvatore Ferragamo bag. Super sexy!
Another total stunner — Michelle Williams!
Her Louis Vuitton burnt orange silk gown took over 300 hours to create. Love the peplum detailing and the diamond bow pinned to her waist. She paired the gown with a Bottega Veneta blush crocodile clutch and a Fred Leighton for Forevermark brilliant cut diamond necklace. She rocked blonder hair and the lighter shade is very Marilyn.
Angelina Jolie knows how to make some entrance. She and Brad Pitt were the very last stars to arrive after the carpet had nearly cleared out. It was worth the wait!
Her black velvet Atelier Versace strapless gown, which she paired with Salvatore Ferragamo heels, features a thigh-high slit. Absolutely stunning and I love her dramatic big hair and red lips.
The icing on the cake? $2.5 million in Neil Lane diamonds!
I could see Viola Davis's bright emerald green gown all the way down the red carpet. That's how you stand out in a crowd!
She looked positively radiant in her embellished Vera Wang gown, paired with Judith Leiber clutch and Jimmy Choo heels. Love that she went with a natural hairstyle. Gorgeous.
Octavia Spencer, who has been wearing Tadashi Shoji all award season long, once again went with her go-to designer. If it ain't broke don't fix it, right? She knows what works for her body and Tadashi's gowns are very flattering on her, including this gold beaded number. She completed the look with a Judith Leiber clutch and 50-carat diamond earrings from Neil Lane.
Gwyneth Paltrow continues her style risk-taking ways and it paid off handsomely with her white hot Tom Ford gown and cape. Yes, a cape at the Oscars!
Here are a few of my fashion favorites:
Let's start with Jennifer Lopez. LOVE! LOVE! LOVE!
Go big or go home seems to be her motto and she went for it with her custom couture Zuhair Murad gown — a Deco delight. The nude silk gown features a plunging neckline and is hand-embroidered with transparent crystal beading. She completed the look with Jimmy Choo shoes, Lorraine Schwartz jewelry and a mirrored Salvatore Ferragamo bag. Super sexy!
Another total stunner — Michelle Williams!
Her Louis Vuitton burnt orange silk gown took over 300 hours to create. Love the peplum detailing and the diamond bow pinned to her waist. She paired the gown with a Bottega Veneta blush crocodile clutch and a Fred Leighton for Forevermark brilliant cut diamond necklace. She rocked blonder hair and the lighter shade is very Marilyn.
Angelina Jolie knows how to make some entrance. She and Brad Pitt were the very last stars to arrive after the carpet had nearly cleared out. It was worth the wait!
Her black velvet Atelier Versace strapless gown, which she paired with Salvatore Ferragamo heels, features a thigh-high slit. Absolutely stunning and I love her dramatic big hair and red lips.
The icing on the cake? $2.5 million in Neil Lane diamonds!
I could see Viola Davis's bright emerald green gown all the way down the red carpet. That's how you stand out in a crowd!
She looked positively radiant in her embellished Vera Wang gown, paired with Judith Leiber clutch and Jimmy Choo heels. Love that she went with a natural hairstyle. Gorgeous.
Octavia Spencer, who has been wearing Tadashi Shoji all award season long, once again went with her go-to designer. If it ain't broke don't fix it, right? She knows what works for her body and Tadashi's gowns are very flattering on her, including this gold beaded number. She completed the look with a Judith Leiber clutch and 50-carat diamond earrings from Neil Lane.
Gwyneth Paltrow continues her style risk-taking ways and it paid off handsomely with her white hot Tom Ford gown and cape. Yes, a cape at the Oscars!
2012年2月26日星期日
Oscars 2012: Michelle Williams Gorgeous in Red, Jessica Chastain Stunning in Black and Gold
The biggest names in the movie industry have begun to arrive at the Hollywood & Highland Center on Sunday, February 26 for the 84th Annual Academy Awards. Bringing the glamor to the red carpet are many of this year's nominees, including Best Actress hopeful Michelle Williams and Best Supporting Actress candidate Jessica Chastain.
31-year-old Williams turned heads on the red carpet in a tiered bright red dress by Louis Vuitton. The "My Week With Marilyn" star, who was accompanied by fellow actress Busy Phillips, finished off her look with a pair of Christian Louboutin shoes, a Bottega Venetta bag, as well as Forevermark and Fred Leighton jewels.
Williams wasn't the only one who dared to go with a red dress. Emma Stone, "The Help" beauty who has been set as one of the presenters, also looked gorgeous in the color. Hitting the red carpet, the 23-year-old actress wore a fuschia Giambattista Valli gown, which features a gathered bow at the neck.
Also looking stunning with her choice of dress was 30-year-old Chastain. The "Help" actress, who is up against the likes of Berenice Bejo and Melissa McCarthy among others, rocked a flowing black gown with intricate gold detail from Alexander McQueen. She came to the event accompanied by her grandmother.
Other female stars stealing the spotlight included Bejo and Rooney Mara. While the leading actress of "The Artist" dyed her hair red and wore a mint Elie Saab dress with sheer sleeves, the Lisbeth Salander of "The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo" dazzled in a lace Givenchy Haute Couture.
Bringing more colors to the red carpet, in the meantime, were "The Help" actress Viola Davis and George Clooney's girlfriend Stacy Keibler. Davis, who brought along husband Julius Tennon as her date, opted to go with a custom emerald green gown by Vera Wang, while Keibler rocked a gold Marchesa dress. Both have Lorraine Schwartz jewels as their accessories.
In the men's department, Clooney presented a classic look. The Best Actor nominee for his work in "The Descendants" chose to come to the biggest night in Hollywood wearing a classic Giorgio Armani tuxedo. Meanwhile, Sacha Baron Cohen arrived fully-clothed in his character's costume from "The Dictator" completed with an urn of Kim Jong Il's "ashes".
31-year-old Williams turned heads on the red carpet in a tiered bright red dress by Louis Vuitton. The "My Week With Marilyn" star, who was accompanied by fellow actress Busy Phillips, finished off her look with a pair of Christian Louboutin shoes, a Bottega Venetta bag, as well as Forevermark and Fred Leighton jewels.
Williams wasn't the only one who dared to go with a red dress. Emma Stone, "The Help" beauty who has been set as one of the presenters, also looked gorgeous in the color. Hitting the red carpet, the 23-year-old actress wore a fuschia Giambattista Valli gown, which features a gathered bow at the neck.
Also looking stunning with her choice of dress was 30-year-old Chastain. The "Help" actress, who is up against the likes of Berenice Bejo and Melissa McCarthy among others, rocked a flowing black gown with intricate gold detail from Alexander McQueen. She came to the event accompanied by her grandmother.
Other female stars stealing the spotlight included Bejo and Rooney Mara. While the leading actress of "The Artist" dyed her hair red and wore a mint Elie Saab dress with sheer sleeves, the Lisbeth Salander of "The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo" dazzled in a lace Givenchy Haute Couture.
Bringing more colors to the red carpet, in the meantime, were "The Help" actress Viola Davis and George Clooney's girlfriend Stacy Keibler. Davis, who brought along husband Julius Tennon as her date, opted to go with a custom emerald green gown by Vera Wang, while Keibler rocked a gold Marchesa dress. Both have Lorraine Schwartz jewels as their accessories.
In the men's department, Clooney presented a classic look. The Best Actor nominee for his work in "The Descendants" chose to come to the biggest night in Hollywood wearing a classic Giorgio Armani tuxedo. Meanwhile, Sacha Baron Cohen arrived fully-clothed in his character's costume from "The Dictator" completed with an urn of Kim Jong Il's "ashes".
2012年2月23日星期四
Young resident saving the planet with paper bags
He's only ten but Abdul Muqeet Mannan is already winning awards for trying to rid his neighbourhood in Abu Dhabi of plastic bags. Zenifer Khaleel interviews the ‘paper bag boy'
Abdul Muqeet remembers the date: February 2, 2010. He was eight and in grade three at St Joseph's School, Abu Dhabi, when his teacher told him and his classmates that they were introducing a ‘No plastic day'.
She gave the pupils a short talk on the importance of preserving the planet for the future and how plastic, one of the biggest threats to the environment, was polluting the earth and causing untold damage.
Back home he asked his mother, Andaleeb Mannan, more about plastic. She reiterated that it was a major pollutant that apart from taking hundreds of years to degrade, could also end up in the waterways and pose a threat to marine life. Plastic is also a major threat to animals such as camels, which have died after ingesting it. So we should reduce or discontinue our usage of plastic bags, she told him.
"But," Abdul asked, confused, "how will the grocery deliver my chocolates if they can't use plastic bags?" His mother laughed and replied that maybe they could use bags made of some other material. That set him thinking. Abdul began looking around for substitutes and the first thing that caught his eye was a pile of newspapers lying on the table.
"I thought, ‘Why can't paper be used to pack stuff?"' he says. "I wondered why I didn't think about it before." Getting down to work, he grabbed a few sheets of paper, some glue and began making paper bags.
"Initially, I could make bags which could hold a reasonable amount of stuff or weight," he recalls. But the little boy, who beat 22,000 people from 62 countries to be one of the ten winners of the Abu Dhabi Awards, persevered until he mastered the art. "I went on the internet and looked for sites which would tell me how to make them," he says.
"I made about 20 bags and the next day after school went to the grocery store near my house and asked the man at the counter if he would consider using my bags to pack stuff," he says.
"The shopkeepers were initially sceptical," recalls his mother. "But they agreed to use his bags just to humour him."
What they weren't prepared for was his persistence. The next day Abdul was back with more bags. "I'll get you more as soon as you are through with these," he told the owner.
Abdul Muqeet remembers the date: February 2, 2010. He was eight and in grade three at St Joseph's School, Abu Dhabi, when his teacher told him and his classmates that they were introducing a ‘No plastic day'.
She gave the pupils a short talk on the importance of preserving the planet for the future and how plastic, one of the biggest threats to the environment, was polluting the earth and causing untold damage.
Back home he asked his mother, Andaleeb Mannan, more about plastic. She reiterated that it was a major pollutant that apart from taking hundreds of years to degrade, could also end up in the waterways and pose a threat to marine life. Plastic is also a major threat to animals such as camels, which have died after ingesting it. So we should reduce or discontinue our usage of plastic bags, she told him.
"But," Abdul asked, confused, "how will the grocery deliver my chocolates if they can't use plastic bags?" His mother laughed and replied that maybe they could use bags made of some other material. That set him thinking. Abdul began looking around for substitutes and the first thing that caught his eye was a pile of newspapers lying on the table.
"I thought, ‘Why can't paper be used to pack stuff?"' he says. "I wondered why I didn't think about it before." Getting down to work, he grabbed a few sheets of paper, some glue and began making paper bags.
"Initially, I could make bags which could hold a reasonable amount of stuff or weight," he recalls. But the little boy, who beat 22,000 people from 62 countries to be one of the ten winners of the Abu Dhabi Awards, persevered until he mastered the art. "I went on the internet and looked for sites which would tell me how to make them," he says.
"I made about 20 bags and the next day after school went to the grocery store near my house and asked the man at the counter if he would consider using my bags to pack stuff," he says.
"The shopkeepers were initially sceptical," recalls his mother. "But they agreed to use his bags just to humour him."
What they weren't prepared for was his persistence. The next day Abdul was back with more bags. "I'll get you more as soon as you are through with these," he told the owner.
2012年2月22日星期三
Apex Worldwide Logistics Has a New Hire
The Apex Group of Companies, a global consortium of companies that are leaders in providing business consulting, insurance and financial services, manufacturing, vendor management, equipment supply and logistics to the renewable energy, naval, and defense sectors has hired Dionni De La Cruz as a new account manager for Apex Worldwide Logistics. Apex Worldwide Logistics is an integrated supplier committed to providing its customers with quality products and services, cost savings and on-time delivery, while providing superior service through its alliance partners with their respective distribution networks and state-of-the-art warehouse systems. Apex Worldwide Logistics has provided logistics solutions for various products from construction and farming equipment, to the procurement of diverse metals, minerals, and materials for clients both domestically and abroad.
Dionni brings a wealth of experience first as a sales manager at Kirkland's Department Store for home decor and uniquely distinctive gifts. It is here where she learned the fundamentals of high quality customer service and the skills necessary to process large quantity transactions, unload shipments, and track and maintain inventory. After receiving numerous employee of the month honors, Dionni left Kirkland's to pursue a job at Coach, Inc. a leading American designer and maker of luxury lifestyle handbags. Her job duties there included maintaining the stock room and working out the logistics involved with receiving and sending large volumes of shipments to their nearly 500 locations in the United States and Canada.
Apex Worldwide Logistics provides cost savings and efficiency in the supply chain to both customers and suppliers by serving as a procurement arm for customers as well as the marketing and selling arm for suppliers. With a focus on international logistics chain, Apex Worldwide Logistics connects both the customer and supplier in order to expedite products and services in the most efficient way possible consistently meeting the needs of our customers.
The Apex Group of Companies has a global focus on government agencies and Fortune 500 companies across multiple industries including Defense, Safety & Security, Healthcare, Finance, Shipbuilding, various lines of Insurance, Energy (Conservation, Aggregating & Trading), Oil & Gas, IT Solutions, Renewable Energy, and Engineering & Construction services. With global headquarters in Washington, DC and regional district offices located in the energy capital of the world, Houston, Texas - Apex Worldwide Logistics is well represented in the Middle East, Africa, South Asia and South & Central Americas, supporting logistics for both customers and suppliers alike.
Dionni brings a wealth of experience first as a sales manager at Kirkland's Department Store for home decor and uniquely distinctive gifts. It is here where she learned the fundamentals of high quality customer service and the skills necessary to process large quantity transactions, unload shipments, and track and maintain inventory. After receiving numerous employee of the month honors, Dionni left Kirkland's to pursue a job at Coach, Inc. a leading American designer and maker of luxury lifestyle handbags. Her job duties there included maintaining the stock room and working out the logistics involved with receiving and sending large volumes of shipments to their nearly 500 locations in the United States and Canada.
Apex Worldwide Logistics provides cost savings and efficiency in the supply chain to both customers and suppliers by serving as a procurement arm for customers as well as the marketing and selling arm for suppliers. With a focus on international logistics chain, Apex Worldwide Logistics connects both the customer and supplier in order to expedite products and services in the most efficient way possible consistently meeting the needs of our customers.
The Apex Group of Companies has a global focus on government agencies and Fortune 500 companies across multiple industries including Defense, Safety & Security, Healthcare, Finance, Shipbuilding, various lines of Insurance, Energy (Conservation, Aggregating & Trading), Oil & Gas, IT Solutions, Renewable Energy, and Engineering & Construction services. With global headquarters in Washington, DC and regional district offices located in the energy capital of the world, Houston, Texas - Apex Worldwide Logistics is well represented in the Middle East, Africa, South Asia and South & Central Americas, supporting logistics for both customers and suppliers alike.
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