With today's technology, many business and services becomes obsolete. Who needs a CD-rom encyclopedia now when we can do a search on the search engine?
As more and more webmail and social networking sites provide communication tools, the question now is "Is desktop email software obsolete?"
Using social networking tools, you can also store your calender, messages, photos all in a simple location, with one simple login, without the need to download software. You can access this information on mnay different platforms, on your notebook, desktops and mobile phones, and it is relatively independent of operating systems. There are many benefits and convenience this brings as this important information can be conveniently accessed, and is much more portable than ever before. The only difference or benefit of using an email software is that you can use it offline.
In today's world, in countries where wireless internet can be found in many large cities for free, the benefit of using this information offline becomes increasingly less significant, especially when it mobile devices like the handphone can be used like a portable handheld device, and alllow the access to the webmail.
Are social networking tools and webmails changing the way we comunicate today? Can desktop mail software programs still stay relevant to today's consumer?
-- Iron Bowl
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Urban Farming.
I do not see much cities embracing urban farming. As the population increases, the amounts of arable land decreases. Furthermore, with pollution and climate change, the lands that were once farms may not even be fertile enough to grow crops.
With an increase in population, and less food production, there will be a time where there is lack of food. However, there seems to be still no urgency for an increase in food supply.
I believe that urban farming brings a lot of benefits besides the obvious, of growing your own food. Farming can be therapeutic for people living in the city, and the fruits and vegetables grown are extra rewards. As many people live in the city and the population concentration increases, the city grows upwards and it is hard to find a patch of green. However, in many cities, a lot of the building have flat roofs. Most of these roofs are simply flat roofs which house air-conditioning units.
Urban farming is not new. Ancient cities like Babylon had their hanging gardens and farms in or in the vicinity of urban areas. During World War II, it is estimated that nearly 40% of the fresh vegetables and fruits in this country were produced in the Victory Gardens. Only recently, the US has started to import much of the fruits and vegetables from other countries.
A few decades ago ECHO (Education Concerns for Hunger Organization) in Fort Myers, Florida, has introduced container garden techniques for impoverished counties like Haiti. In 1993, Dr. Job Ebenezer, former Director of Environmental Stewardship and Hunger Education at the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) established a container garden on the roof of the parking garage of the ELCA offices in Chicago. The hope was that the roof top garden would serve as a role model for creative use of urban space throughout the country. Dr. Ebenezer proved the feasibility of growing vegetables in plastic wading pools, used tires and feed sacks. The demonstration garden has proved to be highly successful. Each year since 1993, urban gardeners at the ELCA offices in Chicago harvested nearly 1,000 pounds of vegetables from nearly 40 wading pools and a dozen of used tires and feed sacks.
THE EFFECTIVENESS OF URBAN GARDENS
There are several reasons why urban gardens using containers are effective:
They enable us to practice “intensive” gardening method through maximum utilization of limited space.
It is easy to practice “intercropping” (planting a variety of plants in one container) which ensures the health of plants due to diversity.
It is possible to “conserve” both soil and water as containers prevent run offs of soil and excessive watering.
Urban gardens “make use of urban wasteland” (vacant lots, brown fields, unused parking lots, and roof tops)
Urban gardening provides “meaningful employment” for persons with limited skills and formal education.
Establishing and maintaining an urban garden are very “inexpensive”.
Urban gardens provide creative ways to “recycle” old tires and other containers that otherwise would be thrown into landfills.
Churches and social service organizations can use urban gardening to “rehabilitate, create income generation projects, and provide therapy.”
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Currently, in newer residential projects, there are roof gardens on some of these flat roofs. They seem like a good idea to beautify the roofs, however in financially hard times, hiring people to maintain these plants at the gardens where very few people use. A few couples may go to these roof gardens for some quality time, however there could be better use of the roofs.
I believe if you can plant some pretty plants, you can plant vegetables and fruits on the roofs. On residential buildings some of the residents should be allowed to plant their own plants. I sure there is very limited space on the roofs, however there are always people with green thumbs that could sure use the space to grow their own food.
If some space on the roof is allocated to different people, I feel that it will boost the much needed interaction of neighbours in the city. Being outdoors, taking care of plants, neighbours can talk about their common interest, gardening. During harvest, neighbours can also trade and bond. I feel that instead of hiring people workers to take care of the plants, residents should be allowed to grow their own plants.
Another benefit of growing your own plants is that you can grow the plants organically. As these plants are grown several floors off the ground, it is harder for pests to get to these plants. You can be sure that the tomatoes you grow are not covered in pesticides.
If you grow your own food, the food you grow needs no transportation and will have no carbon footprint.
There are many advantages to urban farming. There are some people growing their own herbs in their homes using UV light tubes in place of sunlight. I've personally have mint and lemongrass on my balcony, but having an actual land for growing the plants you want is just much more fulfilling than a little pot of herb in your kitchen.
In Boston, there is a public garden where residents can rent a small plot of land for their gardening use. I've seen many residents get together in the mornings and the evenings at their little plots of land taking care of the plants. These residents often chat and meet up with each other daily and will otherwise not meet up if not for their common passion and the adjacent land they share.
I feel that every city should have their public gardens where people who want to grow their own vegetables can do so. Farming is great way of keeping fit for the elderly as well, and instead of just having seats for old people to gather in an aging community, why not have micro farms for them to grow their favourite crops.
Urban farming is not new, in Chicago, The True Nature Foods 'Rooftop Victory Garden' for localized agricultural production was begun as Phase I in 2006. This project received a 'City of Chicago Green Roof Grants Program 2005: Residential and Small Commercial Buildings' grant from the Department on the Environment toward realization of the vegetated roof, and has become a 'poster project' of sorts for the grant program. Species planted in fall 2006 include buckwheat, burdock, comfrey, Jerusalem artichoke, and artichoke, which were selected for their ability to provide food, fuel, fiber, encourage human health, and help build healthy soil. Species planted in 2007 include herbs such as mints, rosemary, oregano, tomatoes, potatoes, beans, and squash.
In Singapore, a polytechnic explored the sky farm" concept, which would blend in well with both the food-producing potential of Singapore's rooftop spaces, plus the potential of "vertical farming" down the sunlit faces of apartment buildings.
-- Iron Bowl
With an increase in population, and less food production, there will be a time where there is lack of food. However, there seems to be still no urgency for an increase in food supply.
I believe that urban farming brings a lot of benefits besides the obvious, of growing your own food. Farming can be therapeutic for people living in the city, and the fruits and vegetables grown are extra rewards. As many people live in the city and the population concentration increases, the city grows upwards and it is hard to find a patch of green. However, in many cities, a lot of the building have flat roofs. Most of these roofs are simply flat roofs which house air-conditioning units.
Urban farming is not new. Ancient cities like Babylon had their hanging gardens and farms in or in the vicinity of urban areas. During World War II, it is estimated that nearly 40% of the fresh vegetables and fruits in this country were produced in the Victory Gardens. Only recently, the US has started to import much of the fruits and vegetables from other countries.
A few decades ago ECHO (Education Concerns for Hunger Organization) in Fort Myers, Florida, has introduced container garden techniques for impoverished counties like Haiti. In 1993, Dr. Job Ebenezer, former Director of Environmental Stewardship and Hunger Education at the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) established a container garden on the roof of the parking garage of the ELCA offices in Chicago. The hope was that the roof top garden would serve as a role model for creative use of urban space throughout the country. Dr. Ebenezer proved the feasibility of growing vegetables in plastic wading pools, used tires and feed sacks. The demonstration garden has proved to be highly successful. Each year since 1993, urban gardeners at the ELCA offices in Chicago harvested nearly 1,000 pounds of vegetables from nearly 40 wading pools and a dozen of used tires and feed sacks.
THE EFFECTIVENESS OF URBAN GARDENS
There are several reasons why urban gardens using containers are effective:
They enable us to practice “intensive” gardening method through maximum utilization of limited space.
It is easy to practice “intercropping” (planting a variety of plants in one container) which ensures the health of plants due to diversity.
It is possible to “conserve” both soil and water as containers prevent run offs of soil and excessive watering.
Urban gardens “make use of urban wasteland” (vacant lots, brown fields, unused parking lots, and roof tops)
Urban gardening provides “meaningful employment” for persons with limited skills and formal education.
Establishing and maintaining an urban garden are very “inexpensive”.
Urban gardens provide creative ways to “recycle” old tires and other containers that otherwise would be thrown into landfills.
Churches and social service organizations can use urban gardening to “rehabilitate, create income generation projects, and provide therapy.”
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Currently, in newer residential projects, there are roof gardens on some of these flat roofs. They seem like a good idea to beautify the roofs, however in financially hard times, hiring people to maintain these plants at the gardens where very few people use. A few couples may go to these roof gardens for some quality time, however there could be better use of the roofs.
I believe if you can plant some pretty plants, you can plant vegetables and fruits on the roofs. On residential buildings some of the residents should be allowed to plant their own plants. I sure there is very limited space on the roofs, however there are always people with green thumbs that could sure use the space to grow their own food.
If some space on the roof is allocated to different people, I feel that it will boost the much needed interaction of neighbours in the city. Being outdoors, taking care of plants, neighbours can talk about their common interest, gardening. During harvest, neighbours can also trade and bond. I feel that instead of hiring people workers to take care of the plants, residents should be allowed to grow their own plants.
Another benefit of growing your own plants is that you can grow the plants organically. As these plants are grown several floors off the ground, it is harder for pests to get to these plants. You can be sure that the tomatoes you grow are not covered in pesticides.
If you grow your own food, the food you grow needs no transportation and will have no carbon footprint.
There are many advantages to urban farming. There are some people growing their own herbs in their homes using UV light tubes in place of sunlight. I've personally have mint and lemongrass on my balcony, but having an actual land for growing the plants you want is just much more fulfilling than a little pot of herb in your kitchen.
In Boston, there is a public garden where residents can rent a small plot of land for their gardening use. I've seen many residents get together in the mornings and the evenings at their little plots of land taking care of the plants. These residents often chat and meet up with each other daily and will otherwise not meet up if not for their common passion and the adjacent land they share.
I feel that every city should have their public gardens where people who want to grow their own vegetables can do so. Farming is great way of keeping fit for the elderly as well, and instead of just having seats for old people to gather in an aging community, why not have micro farms for them to grow their favourite crops.
Urban farming is not new, in Chicago, The True Nature Foods 'Rooftop Victory Garden' for localized agricultural production was begun as Phase I in 2006. This project received a 'City of Chicago Green Roof Grants Program 2005: Residential and Small Commercial Buildings' grant from the Department on the Environment toward realization of the vegetated roof, and has become a 'poster project' of sorts for the grant program. Species planted in fall 2006 include buckwheat, burdock, comfrey, Jerusalem artichoke, and artichoke, which were selected for their ability to provide food, fuel, fiber, encourage human health, and help build healthy soil. Species planted in 2007 include herbs such as mints, rosemary, oregano, tomatoes, potatoes, beans, and squash.
In Singapore, a polytechnic explored the sky farm" concept, which would blend in well with both the food-producing potential of Singapore's rooftop spaces, plus the potential of "vertical farming" down the sunlit faces of apartment buildings.
-- Iron Bowl
Thursday, April 23, 2009
Rebels make good leaders!
Often in school, I can recall that there were prefects and student leaders. And these people often were not good leaders. They were the students who were able to maintain the status quo and enforce the rules. On the other hand, the rebels, who were always in trouble, were far more dangerous in that they had a way of getting the others to revolt. Many of them were concerned with unfairness, liberation, and wanting to change the system for the better. Many had strong passion and they were the individuals who were truly instruments of change.
This concept may upset many, but I think many will agree that this is true. I believe that when necessary leaders should be “rebels” who can take on “the system” and be agents of change for good.
After doing some research, this is what I found that may support my statement.
http://www.ngopulse.org/article/what-makes-good-leader
L: A leader is someone who is willing to listen to others and her inner wisdom. She is willing to learn, grow, change, reflect, observe, teach, and let her intuition guide her. She leads by example, lets others be involved in collaborative decision-making, and learns how to calm the mind and body so as to stay productive and healthy. A leader knows when to be quiet and when to speak.
“Authentic listening is about being generous – listening with a giving attitude that seeks to bring forth the contributions in someone, versus listening with limiting assessments, opinions and judgements” (Kevin Cashman).
E: A leader is someone who is ethically aware and who ensures that ethical policies and practices are pursued. She is concerned with enabling her staff to make complex ethical judgements and to take responsibility for decisions they make. Her concern with the well-being of others results in her prioritising human relationships characterised by trust and respect. She empowers herself and her staff, enables people to know and do their jobs, and encourages them to learn and grow. She is willing and able to express her true feelings and ideas in appropriate and empowering ways. When someone does something she does not like she can tell the person how she feels about the situation. However, she is normally able to maintain self-control in tense, angry conversations because she does not respond in automatic and often unconscious ways. She embraces life and life’s paradoxes.
“Words are sacred. They deserve respect. If you get the right ones, in the right order, you can nudge the world a little” (Tom Stoppard).
A: A leader is able to put ideas into action. She accepts and appreciates that people are diverse, that agreement is not always possible and that she cannot control people. She acts as an adviser to her managers, and is willing to admit to she does not know everything. She aligns her actions with her values and vision, so that there is no conflict between her behaviour and values. Because she stays true to who she is, and to what she values, she is able to say no to things that do not appeal to her. For her, choice comes from good judgement. She affirms others and is an agent of change. She is assertive and recognises that others have the right to be assertive. She does not become defensive in response to others, but stops, breathes and takes the time to think things through. She pursues the attitude of a winner.
“An authentically empowered person is one who is so strong, so empowered, that the idea of using force against another is not part of his or her consciousness” (Gary Zukav).
“To act decisively, and to take responsibility for one’s actions, while knowing and acknowledging that one may be proved wrong through no ‘fault’ of one’s own, and that there is no final way of knowing, is the mark of the great leader, the leader who shows ‘greatness of spirit’” (Allan Kaplan).
D: A leader is concerned with her own development, the development and well-being of her staff and the development of an organisational ethos that. She is disciplined in her thoughts and behaviours, delivers on her commitments, and is able to deal directly with her issues. However, she is able to delegate and to trust that her managers can do their jobs properly. Of course, she is willing to help the managers to do their jobs well. She is able to dream and envision different ways of doing things or different things to do. She does not dwell on the trivial and is able to depart when the time is right.
“Unless you try to do something beyond what you have mastered, you will never grow” (CR Lawton).
S: A leader asks smart questions and is solutions-focussed. She is able to work synergistically and to sow seeds of greatness. She shares her talents and gifts, and surrounds herself with people, including other CEOs, who encourage and challenge her. When successful she shares the credit with her staff. She sustains her efforts and supports her staff in ways which do not invade their private lives. She sets goals that are reachable. These are goals that she really wants. They get her juices flowing and keep her inspired. She brings soul to work, and surrenders to the flow of things. She is sensitive to diversity issues and is able to strategise. She has an understanding of the secrets of success and supports others in developing their leadership skills.
“Do not seek to follow in the footsteps of the wise. Seek what they sought” (Basho).
After contacting friends and old classmates, I found that most "rebels" in the past are now successful leaders in their own companies, and the "conformists" are now managers.
So should we "reward" positive "rebellious" behavior to have a breeding ground for more leaders in our society?
-- Iron Bowl
This concept may upset many, but I think many will agree that this is true. I believe that when necessary leaders should be “rebels” who can take on “the system” and be agents of change for good.
After doing some research, this is what I found that may support my statement.
http://www.ngopulse.org/article/what-makes-good-leader
L: A leader is someone who is willing to listen to others and her inner wisdom. She is willing to learn, grow, change, reflect, observe, teach, and let her intuition guide her. She leads by example, lets others be involved in collaborative decision-making, and learns how to calm the mind and body so as to stay productive and healthy. A leader knows when to be quiet and when to speak.
“Authentic listening is about being generous – listening with a giving attitude that seeks to bring forth the contributions in someone, versus listening with limiting assessments, opinions and judgements” (Kevin Cashman).
E: A leader is someone who is ethically aware and who ensures that ethical policies and practices are pursued. She is concerned with enabling her staff to make complex ethical judgements and to take responsibility for decisions they make. Her concern with the well-being of others results in her prioritising human relationships characterised by trust and respect. She empowers herself and her staff, enables people to know and do their jobs, and encourages them to learn and grow. She is willing and able to express her true feelings and ideas in appropriate and empowering ways. When someone does something she does not like she can tell the person how she feels about the situation. However, she is normally able to maintain self-control in tense, angry conversations because she does not respond in automatic and often unconscious ways. She embraces life and life’s paradoxes.
“Words are sacred. They deserve respect. If you get the right ones, in the right order, you can nudge the world a little” (Tom Stoppard).
A: A leader is able to put ideas into action. She accepts and appreciates that people are diverse, that agreement is not always possible and that she cannot control people. She acts as an adviser to her managers, and is willing to admit to she does not know everything. She aligns her actions with her values and vision, so that there is no conflict between her behaviour and values. Because she stays true to who she is, and to what she values, she is able to say no to things that do not appeal to her. For her, choice comes from good judgement. She affirms others and is an agent of change. She is assertive and recognises that others have the right to be assertive. She does not become defensive in response to others, but stops, breathes and takes the time to think things through. She pursues the attitude of a winner.
“An authentically empowered person is one who is so strong, so empowered, that the idea of using force against another is not part of his or her consciousness” (Gary Zukav).
“To act decisively, and to take responsibility for one’s actions, while knowing and acknowledging that one may be proved wrong through no ‘fault’ of one’s own, and that there is no final way of knowing, is the mark of the great leader, the leader who shows ‘greatness of spirit’” (Allan Kaplan).
D: A leader is concerned with her own development, the development and well-being of her staff and the development of an organisational ethos that. She is disciplined in her thoughts and behaviours, delivers on her commitments, and is able to deal directly with her issues. However, she is able to delegate and to trust that her managers can do their jobs properly. Of course, she is willing to help the managers to do their jobs well. She is able to dream and envision different ways of doing things or different things to do. She does not dwell on the trivial and is able to depart when the time is right.
“Unless you try to do something beyond what you have mastered, you will never grow” (CR Lawton).
S: A leader asks smart questions and is solutions-focussed. She is able to work synergistically and to sow seeds of greatness. She shares her talents and gifts, and surrounds herself with people, including other CEOs, who encourage and challenge her. When successful she shares the credit with her staff. She sustains her efforts and supports her staff in ways which do not invade their private lives. She sets goals that are reachable. These are goals that she really wants. They get her juices flowing and keep her inspired. She brings soul to work, and surrenders to the flow of things. She is sensitive to diversity issues and is able to strategise. She has an understanding of the secrets of success and supports others in developing their leadership skills.
“Do not seek to follow in the footsteps of the wise. Seek what they sought” (Basho).
After contacting friends and old classmates, I found that most "rebels" in the past are now successful leaders in their own companies, and the "conformists" are now managers.
So should we "reward" positive "rebellious" behavior to have a breeding ground for more leaders in our society?
-- Iron Bowl
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Let's Gracious Singapore
In Singapore, there are many things that changed much over the past few years which is for the bad. I guess because Singa, the courtesy Lion is dead now, and people are less gracious.
There are a lot of things that annoys me, certainly makes it a bad day when I see it.
1) Urinating in stairwells.
2) Littering from high floors.
3) Listening to music loudly from their phones/PSP without headphones on the subway.
4) Eating and leaving the waste behind at void decks.
5) Walking dogs and not picking up the poo.
6) Getting drunk in public, under public housing, near a public school on weekdays in the afternoons.
7) Cycling without a helmet, against traffic, on a dark road.
8) Jaywalking with children, while on the phone not paying attention to traffic.
9) Cars blocking the "yellow box" and causing traffic jams.
10) Blocking the doors of trains and elevators preventing people from coming out, while forcing their in.
It would be a lot nicer to live in if everyone be a little less selfish. Always think about others and respect others and the world would be a better place.
--Iron Bowl
There are a lot of things that annoys me, certainly makes it a bad day when I see it.
1) Urinating in stairwells.
2) Littering from high floors.
3) Listening to music loudly from their phones/PSP without headphones on the subway.
4) Eating and leaving the waste behind at void decks.
5) Walking dogs and not picking up the poo.
6) Getting drunk in public, under public housing, near a public school on weekdays in the afternoons.
7) Cycling without a helmet, against traffic, on a dark road.
8) Jaywalking with children, while on the phone not paying attention to traffic.
9) Cars blocking the "yellow box" and causing traffic jams.
10) Blocking the doors of trains and elevators preventing people from coming out, while forcing their in.
It would be a lot nicer to live in if everyone be a little less selfish. Always think about others and respect others and the world would be a better place.
--Iron Bowl
Friday, April 17, 2009
Singapore. Flawed at times.
Being in Singapore for these couple of days, I really like the food here. At food courts, Hawker Centers, there is a "ranking" which nobody seemed to care. I've been to many Hawker Centers and I was a little disturbed when I talked to a Hawker who got a "A" grade for cleanliness. His stall looked normal, not exceptionally clean, and I do see occasional flies flying around. I asked him how he got the "A" and his answer was "Pay Loh"
I've been around Singapore for food, trying out many stalls all over the island as I was writing a book, and reviewing some food. I get Diarrhoea at times, but nothing too serious, and generally do not look at the rating. In my opinion, If an "A" stall is beside a "D" stall, the rodents, cockroaches and other pests can run past the "A" stall to get to the "D" stall. All the rating are for show. Nobody really cares about the rating and a lot of people know that you can "pay" for better ratings.
I've seen long queues at stalls with "C" ratings, and no one bothers. Even after the recent deaths of 2 Singaporeans after eating contaminated food, many do not seem to bother as with the other government department, the ratings are just for show. Until somebody dies.
About paying for inspections, I believe it is common practice as I was approached by a man outside Viacom, an inspection center. The man asked for $150 to "settle everything". I did not go for it as my car was as is! Yet to my disappointment, it actually failed the inspection for handbrake / brake alignment. I've seen cars with bodykits, under car neons, aftermarket turbos, HIDs and other illegal modifications pass through uneventfully, and I guessed that I could have paid for the convenience, they tell me any problems and I rectify it on my own convenience.
So much for "no corruption"
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I know some contractor who install scaffolding and shelter/tents for fairs and they do pay "protection money". Bar owners and Pubs are also paying protection money, and not to security companies.
Organized crime, I thought was the thing of the past, and something like that will never happen in Singapore. but recently, on my unpleasant visits to Geylang for food, I saw gambling dens behind Lorong 20, Singapore Police Officers walking by and nothing happened. In the dark back alleys, there were also syringes on the floor, and I don't think they were left there by diabetics injecting insulin. I was asked "What gang I was from." when I walked by some men (Mainland Chinese)
Often on Duxton Hill and Geylang, many men gather, and I really doubt that all of them who do not seem like they work (chilling out and drinking at 6pm on a weekday) and they do not sound local. Are they illegal immigrants who came and set up gangs?
I've heard many stories about "stolen goods" appearing in used item stores, or along Sungei Road, a common place to find your stolen bicycles. Other places in Sim Lim Square, you can find your stolen Laptop and phones for sale.
My main disappointment was that Singapore felt like a safe, clean and green country -- 10 years ago. Everything has changed and though on the outside, the city is more built up, better transportation system, more international events, there are however, more organized crime as I saw on the newspapers that "Harassment from Loan sharks are on the rise". Is the the price Singapore has to pay for Globalization?
Don't get me wrong, crime exist everywhere, corruption too. And Singapore is probably safer as thugs here generally carry only knives, 9mm or smaller pistols. My only worry is when someone shoots at you, the police will deny that it was a gunshot wound as guns are illegal in Singapore.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
There are a lot of laws in Singapore, I feel that there may be "too much" laws and specific government agencies that deal with everything from casinos to marriages. Bureaucracy is to the max! On the surface, everyone complies, but when you start looking deeper, the bureaucracy is indeed a hinderance, and many choose to openly ignore laws and rules.
To apply for fireworks permit, I heard you have to go through 9 departments for approval, and you have to pay for each application. To renovate a house, to cut down a tree in your own house, multiple permits are required. In the end, those that follow the laws are the ones paying for it as the ones that ignore the laws tend to be out of trouble.
For example, if you buy an old house and you decide to do a minor renovation after taking over the house. An inexperienced architect/contractor would be get ALL the necessary permits before even expanding the toilet or enlarging the balcony. If the plans of the house do not conform to that which was filed, the government agent, URA or BCA would go after the new owner for non-compliance, while the previous owner who was responsible just simply not care.
I guess the culture does promote crime and illegal behavior. I can bet that half the prostitutes in Geylang are either on a tourist visa or a student visa, and none on a prostitution visa. And yet, there are some whores working there who are licensed.
It might just be the attitude of the people. NIMBY, Not in my backyard. If its not in their backyard, it is just not their concern.
--Iron Bowl.
I've been around Singapore for food, trying out many stalls all over the island as I was writing a book, and reviewing some food. I get Diarrhoea at times, but nothing too serious, and generally do not look at the rating. In my opinion, If an "A" stall is beside a "D" stall, the rodents, cockroaches and other pests can run past the "A" stall to get to the "D" stall. All the rating are for show. Nobody really cares about the rating and a lot of people know that you can "pay" for better ratings.
I've seen long queues at stalls with "C" ratings, and no one bothers. Even after the recent deaths of 2 Singaporeans after eating contaminated food, many do not seem to bother as with the other government department, the ratings are just for show. Until somebody dies.
About paying for inspections, I believe it is common practice as I was approached by a man outside Viacom, an inspection center. The man asked for $150 to "settle everything". I did not go for it as my car was as is! Yet to my disappointment, it actually failed the inspection for handbrake / brake alignment. I've seen cars with bodykits, under car neons, aftermarket turbos, HIDs and other illegal modifications pass through uneventfully, and I guessed that I could have paid for the convenience, they tell me any problems and I rectify it on my own convenience.
So much for "no corruption"
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I know some contractor who install scaffolding and shelter/tents for fairs and they do pay "protection money". Bar owners and Pubs are also paying protection money, and not to security companies.
Organized crime, I thought was the thing of the past, and something like that will never happen in Singapore. but recently, on my unpleasant visits to Geylang for food, I saw gambling dens behind Lorong 20, Singapore Police Officers walking by and nothing happened. In the dark back alleys, there were also syringes on the floor, and I don't think they were left there by diabetics injecting insulin. I was asked "What gang I was from." when I walked by some men (Mainland Chinese)
Often on Duxton Hill and Geylang, many men gather, and I really doubt that all of them who do not seem like they work (chilling out and drinking at 6pm on a weekday) and they do not sound local. Are they illegal immigrants who came and set up gangs?
I've heard many stories about "stolen goods" appearing in used item stores, or along Sungei Road, a common place to find your stolen bicycles. Other places in Sim Lim Square, you can find your stolen Laptop and phones for sale.
My main disappointment was that Singapore felt like a safe, clean and green country -- 10 years ago. Everything has changed and though on the outside, the city is more built up, better transportation system, more international events, there are however, more organized crime as I saw on the newspapers that "Harassment from Loan sharks are on the rise". Is the the price Singapore has to pay for Globalization?
Don't get me wrong, crime exist everywhere, corruption too. And Singapore is probably safer as thugs here generally carry only knives, 9mm or smaller pistols. My only worry is when someone shoots at you, the police will deny that it was a gunshot wound as guns are illegal in Singapore.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
There are a lot of laws in Singapore, I feel that there may be "too much" laws and specific government agencies that deal with everything from casinos to marriages. Bureaucracy is to the max! On the surface, everyone complies, but when you start looking deeper, the bureaucracy is indeed a hinderance, and many choose to openly ignore laws and rules.
To apply for fireworks permit, I heard you have to go through 9 departments for approval, and you have to pay for each application. To renovate a house, to cut down a tree in your own house, multiple permits are required. In the end, those that follow the laws are the ones paying for it as the ones that ignore the laws tend to be out of trouble.
For example, if you buy an old house and you decide to do a minor renovation after taking over the house. An inexperienced architect/contractor would be get ALL the necessary permits before even expanding the toilet or enlarging the balcony. If the plans of the house do not conform to that which was filed, the government agent, URA or BCA would go after the new owner for non-compliance, while the previous owner who was responsible just simply not care.
I guess the culture does promote crime and illegal behavior. I can bet that half the prostitutes in Geylang are either on a tourist visa or a student visa, and none on a prostitution visa. And yet, there are some whores working there who are licensed.
It might just be the attitude of the people. NIMBY, Not in my backyard. If its not in their backyard, it is just not their concern.
--Iron Bowl.
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Harms and Benefits of a Hybrid and electric car.
http://environmentalism.suite101.com/article.cfm/environmental_costs_of_buying_a_toyota_prius
I've read several articles written by the anti-hybrid car people, one which says that Hybrids and electric cars are hazardous for the blind, and others claim the pollution of the factories that manufacture these cars.
I must say that some are informative, but others are mostly are without any basis and just hilarious to read, yet uninformed people may believe them and take them seriously.
I've always thought that electric cars and hybrids are not as efficient as diesel or petrol cars. After doing competitive automotive racing, both on circuit and drag racing, the amount of fuel really does matter, and having a full load of gas and half a load make a difference, in performance and fuel consumption.
Electric cars weigh the same when the battery is full or empty, and is carrying the extra weight of the battery in the car really necessary? The idea of a hybrid makes sense as during traffic jams, the battery that was charged by the engine while on the highway is used to power the car. With the engine not running, there is also less noise and air pollution during the jams which I appreciate a lot as I drive with the windows down all the time.
After having a lot of remote control cars, I also realize that rechargable batteries also lose charge when charged and discharged constantly. After 1000 cycles, the battery cannot hold as much charge as before, and have to be discarded. I wonder if there are facilities to take these batteries back to reuse the minerals in them. (I'm sure there are)
I have a great Police officer friend who drive a Prius and I think that it is a great car, though the battery needs to be replaced after 10 years and the cost is not that cheap ($3000+). I think low emissions and low fuel consumption is the key when he bought the Prius, and it deed it performed as expected.
If one is buying the Hybrid car to "Save Money" then, you may be paying more for overall maintenance while saving money on gas.
My view on the perfect car, small and light car + turbo, preferable a front mount intercooler and carbon fiber body, and lightweight chasis. Preferably, it come with 6 speed gearbox with a close gear ratio and a boost controller.
-- Iron Bowl
I've read several articles written by the anti-hybrid car people, one which says that Hybrids and electric cars are hazardous for the blind, and others claim the pollution of the factories that manufacture these cars.
I must say that some are informative, but others are mostly are without any basis and just hilarious to read, yet uninformed people may believe them and take them seriously.
I've always thought that electric cars and hybrids are not as efficient as diesel or petrol cars. After doing competitive automotive racing, both on circuit and drag racing, the amount of fuel really does matter, and having a full load of gas and half a load make a difference, in performance and fuel consumption.
Electric cars weigh the same when the battery is full or empty, and is carrying the extra weight of the battery in the car really necessary? The idea of a hybrid makes sense as during traffic jams, the battery that was charged by the engine while on the highway is used to power the car. With the engine not running, there is also less noise and air pollution during the jams which I appreciate a lot as I drive with the windows down all the time.
After having a lot of remote control cars, I also realize that rechargable batteries also lose charge when charged and discharged constantly. After 1000 cycles, the battery cannot hold as much charge as before, and have to be discarded. I wonder if there are facilities to take these batteries back to reuse the minerals in them. (I'm sure there are)
I have a great Police officer friend who drive a Prius and I think that it is a great car, though the battery needs to be replaced after 10 years and the cost is not that cheap ($3000+). I think low emissions and low fuel consumption is the key when he bought the Prius, and it deed it performed as expected.
If one is buying the Hybrid car to "Save Money" then, you may be paying more for overall maintenance while saving money on gas.
My view on the perfect car, small and light car + turbo, preferable a front mount intercooler and carbon fiber body, and lightweight chasis. Preferably, it come with 6 speed gearbox with a close gear ratio and a boost controller.
-- Iron Bowl
Nasty habits of Selfish people.
I am in Hougang in Singapore and I'm disgusted to find out why I am lucky for not living in a public housing estate. This is what I observe in 2 days.
10) Dog Poo on pavement - Damn, there are so much dog poo that it is hard to navigate and walk. I've seen people get their maids to walk the dogs and the maid simply do not clean up.
9) Urinating at staircase area and indoor carparks. Man, do they stink.
8) Drunk people in the evenings. Foreign workers gather, drink and talk loudly at the void deck area. After drinking and eating, they leave the food and empty drink cans behind, sometimes overdrinking occur and puking commence.
7) Hanging of wet mops on the high floors. With water dripping down on people and laundry downstairs.
6) Stuffing the stairwell with plants, shoe cabinets and rubbish. There has been a few fire and it has been proven to hinder escape. Are these people suicidal?
5) Things falling off tall buildings... I've nearly been hit by a bamboo pole and some potted plants. Would be kinda like Final Destination kind of Gory death don't you think?
4) Elevator spills. Someone spilled Laksa in the elevator for some time already. Guess what, it started to dry up and smell and no one cared.
3) Workers Dormitory? Damn, walked pass an apartment and it reeked of body odor and feet. It was noisy at night and I could see 20 people inside a 1000 sq ft flat. Isn't this illegal?
2) Kids peeing in the drain. Well spotted 3 in 12 hours. Some are encouraged by their parents to do so. So drains run to reservoirs? And water that we drink from our taps are purified from it?
1) Rubbish Chute fire! Why do people discard hot ashes down the rubbish chute? It goes down and burn. To put out the fire, the workers just add water. Now we have a steaming pile of rubbish, NICE!
I'm sure this happens elsewhere too, but I believe that it was not so bad before where there was a sense of community. In Manden, people seem to be more respectful and with the sense of community, people are more vocal and will tell you when you are doing something anti-social.
Why can't people be more gracious and make their environment a better place to live in?
-- Iron Bowl
10) Dog Poo on pavement - Damn, there are so much dog poo that it is hard to navigate and walk. I've seen people get their maids to walk the dogs and the maid simply do not clean up.
9) Urinating at staircase area and indoor carparks. Man, do they stink.
8) Drunk people in the evenings. Foreign workers gather, drink and talk loudly at the void deck area. After drinking and eating, they leave the food and empty drink cans behind, sometimes overdrinking occur and puking commence.
7) Hanging of wet mops on the high floors. With water dripping down on people and laundry downstairs.
6) Stuffing the stairwell with plants, shoe cabinets and rubbish. There has been a few fire and it has been proven to hinder escape. Are these people suicidal?
5) Things falling off tall buildings... I've nearly been hit by a bamboo pole and some potted plants. Would be kinda like Final Destination kind of Gory death don't you think?
4) Elevator spills. Someone spilled Laksa in the elevator for some time already. Guess what, it started to dry up and smell and no one cared.
3) Workers Dormitory? Damn, walked pass an apartment and it reeked of body odor and feet. It was noisy at night and I could see 20 people inside a 1000 sq ft flat. Isn't this illegal?
2) Kids peeing in the drain. Well spotted 3 in 12 hours. Some are encouraged by their parents to do so. So drains run to reservoirs? And water that we drink from our taps are purified from it?
1) Rubbish Chute fire! Why do people discard hot ashes down the rubbish chute? It goes down and burn. To put out the fire, the workers just add water. Now we have a steaming pile of rubbish, NICE!
I'm sure this happens elsewhere too, but I believe that it was not so bad before where there was a sense of community. In Manden, people seem to be more respectful and with the sense of community, people are more vocal and will tell you when you are doing something anti-social.
Why can't people be more gracious and make their environment a better place to live in?
-- Iron Bowl
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Do you want to eat at Dominos?
After reading Brian Solis's Blog, I followed the links to the videos and it was indeed appalling.
I'm sure there are many people on youtube, facebook, twitter, etc. who are plain ignorant and dumb.
I've seen many videos of vandalism which led to their own arrests on youtube, and people continue to do so.
As a consumer, I usually avoid fast food chains as I've worked in one, and I've seen many strange people whom you'll never want them to be near your food - EVER! I feel that many of these workers are definitely unhappy about their jobs and a lot of them do act out.
I find that the quality of service is better when employees are happier. Starbucks tend to give better service and their workers seem to be happier.
Watch the videos on the below link and even when it is not real, you probably will not have Dominios for a long time.
http://www.goodasyou.org/good_as_you/2009/04/video-let-the-dominoes-appall.html
--Iron Bowl
I'm sure there are many people on youtube, facebook, twitter, etc. who are plain ignorant and dumb.
I've seen many videos of vandalism which led to their own arrests on youtube, and people continue to do so.
As a consumer, I usually avoid fast food chains as I've worked in one, and I've seen many strange people whom you'll never want them to be near your food - EVER! I feel that many of these workers are definitely unhappy about their jobs and a lot of them do act out.
I find that the quality of service is better when employees are happier. Starbucks tend to give better service and their workers seem to be happier.
Watch the videos on the below link and even when it is not real, you probably will not have Dominios for a long time.
http://www.goodasyou.org/good_as_you/2009/04/video-let-the-dominoes-appall.html
--Iron Bowl
Sunday, April 12, 2009
Sad truth about progress in Singapore and Boston.
Maybe it is a little old school. But I miss the good old Singapore.
After being away from Singapore for about 9 years, I find that a lot of things have changed, a lot for the better and some for worse. But living in Boston for all these years make me feel that some of the history of city that gives it its character needs to stay. What happens when the City removes its large Citgo sign? What will happen when Fenway stadium relocates? I feel if such a catastrophic thing happen, Boston will lose much of its history and it will become a forgettable city...
But wait, after much progress, Singapore is now positioned to become a very modern and great city to live in. It has perpetual summer and sheltered from natural disasters. With a very multi racial and multicultural population, it is easy to fall in love with Singapore.
However, Singapore today is much different from yesterday. All my fond memories on why I like Singapore seem to slowly fade away with the never ending construction and "upgrading". Singapore, with the coming integrated resort casino, IRs as they call them is have much change. I like some of these new changes and development, but I feel that the country now is much of a corporation, selling out its previous obligations to the private companies.
I found out recently that the building that used to be the Singapore Badminton Hall, an iconic building where most of the political, sporting and entertainment action in Singapore in the 1960s and 1970s took place had been turned into one of the countless foodcourts in Singapore, probably in walking distance of dozens in the area. It's a pity, because this was where badminton was born in Singapore, and Badminton is such a popular sport that it is IMPOSSIBLE to get a badminton court unless it is booked 2 weeks before hand if you want to play nights or weekends.
After noticing such a big change, I decided to go on a trip to look for places that were important to me, places I really can remember from my childhood and this is what I discovered:
1) Old National Library.
I used to go to an MPH bookstore by the old National Library, which was closed down, and now, the old National Library seems to have disappeared! I remembered falling down while chasing a bus and getting a deep cut on my knee and elbows, but the area seemed to have totally changed!
2) Pei Chun Public School.
This is my primary school and I have many nostalgic memories for the school. It was a relatively small school, with 2 others beside it. But when I went to take a look now, IT IS HUGE. The secondary school beside it is gone and there are some new buildings, making it unrecognizabke anymore.
3) St. Andrews Secondary.
My good old secondary school located at Potong Pasir. I chose it because I wanted to cycle to school and I did not have much choice. Looking at it now, integrating a Junior school, Secondary and Junior College, it became such a large monster that some of the nostalgic places that I used to walk, especially towards the old St. Andrews Junior School is completely different.
4) Nanyang Junior College.
I can see a trend here. My Junior College... Its gone!!! They removed and rebuilt the school from scratch and the only thing remaining is probably a temporary container which I think was used as a classroom once. The track, tennis courts, stairs, labs, lecture theaters, classrooms... All new now.
5) National Stadium and Indoor Stadium.
There used to be a People's Association and some food places there. I can remember loving the KFC and other spots where my group of biker friends would hang out and admire each other's bikes. ALL CHANGED NOW. KFC is gone!!
6) Marina South.
One of my favourite chill out places. Pool, bowling and arcade. Korean BBQ and steamboat Buffet, near a nice lucious park where people fly kites. It is very relaxing and a nice place to hang out before going to an Canto Disco at night. GONE.. ALL GONE.
7) Ang Mo Kio Central.
I remember going to the cinemas at Ang Mo Kio a lot, and now, besides the New Ang Mo Kio Hub, the other areas feel a little deserted as I believe many old shops cannot compete with the NTUC Xtra which seems to sell everything, killing the local stores.
8) Singapore River.
I remember going to Clarke Quay after they cleaned it up and it was nice and "happening". But now, Singapore river has become a giant pool of stagnant water which smells really bad at times and lots of rubbish like plastic bags, old plastic bottles and paper can be seen floating and not moving. The water looked very dirty again, and the non-moving water just seemed very unhealthy for any water sport now. I feel like vomiting when I'm at the ends of the new Singapore Urban Reservior, and I don't like to go anywhere near it anymore.
9) Specialist Center.
My favourite location in the past for Famous Amos Cookies and John Little is gone. My mom brings me to the sale every year and some how attached Famous Amos and their famous free smells to the building, leaving a very good feeling when I see it, but now... Its no longer there.
10) NTUC Chalets and Clubhouse at Pasir Ris.
This used to be like world's end to me. It was far and such a getaway from everywhere, and you would have nothing but plain FUN. But now, with the introduction of Downtown East in the area, it just feels like a regular mall. The feeling of a getaway is somehow lost forever.
11) Yaohan.
I used to go to Yaohan with my parents at Parkway Parade or Thomson Shopping Center, and both of these places are totally different. The layout of the stores are so crowded, and everything is so cluttered and it feels like any other regular malls. I love going to these malls as they are a little out of the way, but it is easy to walk and shop without the crowd. I can't find any malls without crowds now on the weekends.
12) Big Splash and Wet n' Wild.
A tropical island needs FUN IN THE SUN activities and even the iconic big splash has given way to food and beverage facilities... Is Singpaore lacking in them? Where are the water slides now?
13) Sentosa.
The old Sentosa with the musical Fountain, monorail, cable car and Siloso Beach has been totally transformed. Some parts of Sentosa look very run down and old, and walking on the roads do not feel safe now as there are much more cars than before. The lack of monorail does not help and the large amounts of construction vehicles and construction workers does not make it a desirable place to relax.
14) Geylang.
There was a very clear line in the past. The prostitutes used to be located at lorong 12 - 18, only on the even side of the streets, but it has became very popular with the foreign workers that you can find them easily from Loring 8 - 22. It is very widespread now, and along with much illegal gambling in the back alleys, Geylang has many different gangs which "protect" the area, and Singapore police even when you can see them, often look the other way. In Geylang, the streets are also packed with illegal "street walker" prostitutes, who are not licensed and here on social visas. My vietnamese friend walked to one of them who seemed forced into the trade and was nearly beaten up by the men who walked by. A report to the police does not seem to have any effect at all. I used to go to Geylang for dinner and fruits, but the gang problem and bad traffic and parking situation make it a very dangerous place to be, especially for a pedestrian who cannot walk on the pavement as the prostitutes and patrons occupy them, and being a non-paying pedestrian, you may get into trouble. There are also constant gang fights which the police will come just to disperse, with no one arrested.
Singa the Courtest Lion from Singapore is dead, the roads are filled with aggressive drivers, and people like to block the entrances and exits of public transportation. A problem faced by all countries, but I felt that Singapore handled all these thing better in the past.
Public housing which costs S$250,000 10 years ago goes for $500,000 now, even in the financial downturn, but the wages here remain the same. Medical costs and public transportation seemed much affordable, even with a low paying job, but I know several people now who are bankrupt due to medical fees, even when they were seeking public clinics and hospitals.
The government departments which work for the public, seems to be selling out some of the profitable departments to private companies, increasing cost of living and sometimes lowering standards. Even the police force, now has a private company which the government mandages companies to use for security and crowd control.
I somehow feel less secure now as these "security guards" who wear uniform like a regular police officer is very prevaliant, are at Customs, banks and even doing traffic control for large festivities and celebrations.
I guess this is part of globalization, some places handle it better, and some places, well deny that they failed to see the problems that arise from it.
--Iron Bown
New Public Relations.
With new social media tools, traditional public relations is beginning to fade away into obscutiry. The era of mass broadcasting is losing its relevance as less people buy newspapers and even read the news.
For the countries which have strong restriction on media, and tight controls on broadcasting, new media WILL have a very strong impact. As the overly controlled media focus on only one view and provide a skewed image on society, covering all the imperfections, showing only what is needed, the new social media is definitely change much perceptions as the governments are slow to manage the new and fast progress of the changing environment.
Public relations and marketing departments in progressive companies now have to think of new ways and expand the scope of participation and outreach to customers and the public. Understanding and engaging the hyper-connected leaders and the network of bloggers and tweeters now becomes an important part of any company's media team as gaining the authority to create, shape and distribute opinions and insights on this democratic online platform plays a HUGE role in a company's image and success.
In this new era of influence and participation, shouting and broadcasting marketing efforts is going to be obsolete and we have to evolve and genuinely and intelligently humanize our story to connect with real people and the online communities they inhabit.
In this new era of influence and participation, shouting and broadcasting marketing efforts is going to be obsolete and we have to evolve and genuinely and intelligently humanize our story to connect with real people and the online communities they inhabit.
With the trend of mass customization and a more engaging platform to engage the people, new media will very soon take over as customers who uses a successful product and tweets or blogs about it now feels that they contributed and indeed they do. Their reviews and opinions when handled properly can positively help a company and it will certainly be appreciated.
Mass communication, once thought to be a one way street via mass broadcast will turn into a 2 way communication model thanks to today's technology. Greenyarn, a sustainable Nano-technology startup company based in Boston opened its communications to its customers listened to the feedback from their customers and enhanced their already technological advanced socks to make them even better.
I've read some insightful blogs, from Brian Solis, a regular contributor to marketing & tech insight. http://www.briansolis.com/index.htm and it is becoming clearer, new social media is here to stay. It is not a fad and those who ignore it will be left behind.
-- Iron Bowl
Tuesday, April 07, 2009
Really?
I've heard these comments recently:
A: Ikea cafe is Halal rite?
B: The meatballs contain pork and beef, what do you think?
A: There are malays eating here, and they serve fried Chicken!
--> All Malays are muslims?
(On the Phone in the train)
C: Sometimes hor, I'm late.. Sometimes I'm early... Or hor, I dun turn up at all!
--> Is this person never on time?
(At fruit stall)
D: How heavy is 1kg?
--Iron Bowl
More to come...
Monday, April 06, 2009
Most Durable Socks
April 2009
Most Durable Socks
Many people have asked why Greenyarn socks are not like the 3 for $10 socks. Greenyarn socks are much more comfortable and value for money. I rotate 3 pairs of socks which I hand wash and hang them to dry everyday. Each of them lasted over a year. I used to wear cheap socks and even when I change them everyday and hand wash them, they last 2 months before the elsaticity of the socks goes. I felt that I was very wasteful by throwing the socks away and at the same time they were uncomortable. After being in the business for 5 years, Greenyarn interviewed a selected group of customers and all that replied loved their Greenyarn socks and they believed it is the most durable pair and comfortable pair they have owned. Why not pamper yourself and buy yourself a great pair of Greenyarn socks today. You'll be doing the environment a favor by reducing waste too.
From www.greenyarn.com
Sunday, April 05, 2009
Satsugai on Facebook
Satsugai, A cat in Singapore has a facebook page.
Within 1 day, Satsugai has 40 friends, and within 1 week, close to 100 friends.
Will Satsugai have more friends than most people on facebook?
Only time will tell, but this is just a facebook experiment, do you even know all your friends on facebook? Will anyone just friend Satsugai?
Satsugai can be reached at 
--Iron Bowl
F1 Results...
Sepang F1 Results 5 Apr 2009Weird race, bad choice of tires for most...Can't believe Button won twice!
-- Iron BowlPOS DRIVER ENTRANT 1 Jenson Button Brawn-Mercedes 2 Nick Heidfeld BMW Sauber 3 Timo Glock Toyota 4 Jarno Trulli Toyota 5 Rubens Barrichello Brawn-Mercedes 6 Mark Webber Red Bull-Renault 7 Lewis Hamilton McLaren-Mercedes 8 Nico Rosberg Williams-Toyota 9 Felipe Massa Ferrari 10 Sebastien Bourdais Toro Rosso-Ferrari 11 Fernando Alonso Renault 12 Kazuki Nakajima Williams-Toyota 13 Nelson Piquet Renault 14 Kimi Raikkonen Ferrari 15 Sebastian Vettel Red Bull-Renault 16 Sebastien Buemi Toro Rosso-Ferrari 17 Adrian Sutil Force India-Mercedes 18 Giancarlo Fisichella Force India-Mercedes
Wednesday, April 01, 2009
Parking Attendant Fail!
I've been parking for years and this keeps happening, either there's por training or these third party parking wardens just suck.
I placed parking coupons for overnight parking, I'm parking in a parking lot clearly for normal parking, but I keep getting fines. This is not the first time.
Writing to the relevant authorities does not seem to help or get any response.
"We regret to inform you that we are unable to waive the above notice."
Why am I fined for parking legally where people who double park seem to be fine?
--Iron Bowl
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
