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Tuesday, December 16, 2008
Branded Patriotism
My guess is the sponsors look for the biggest garbage bin and throw the scroll away, having got their mileage from the – you've guessed it – event!!Right now there are enough p.r. professionals who have gone into a huddle trying to figure out 'discreet' and 'tasteful' ways to capitalize on the somber mood. Media savvy artists are busy painting their 'anguish' (for a fat fee, of course), and fashion designers are working on their next 'terror-themed' collection. If this is sounding cynical, that's too bad. But what is happening is far worse. With elections round the corner, national security is going to be the top issue for politicians of every hue. Realising that, most political parties are rethinking their strategies and redoing their posters. Within hours of Mumbai losing three top cops, there were gigantic hoardings put up all over the city 'Saluting the Martyrs." It goes without saying, the hoardings also carried mug shots of politicians seeking mileage from the tragedy. No wonder, the biggest villains in Mumbai at present are our netas, who have never had it this bad – from the prime minister to the sacked chief minister, people are openly expressing their frustration and contempt for our leaders - the first time ever. In fact, when I met a cabinet minister last week, I told him he should wear a burqa in public, even though he was not directly involved in handling the calamity that devasted our city. Mumbai's anger against politicos this time is on an unprecedented scale.No wonder most Dilliwallas are sensibly staying away – their minders must have advised them to avoid direct contact with Mumbaikars, who are livid enough to give vent to their contempt in unambiguous terms.
And yet, lessons have still not been learnt. Just yesterday I , along with several other motorists, had to pull over during peak hour traffic, and wait for over twenty minutes for a VIP cavalcade to pass. Perhaps people in Delhi are accustomed to this. But in Mumbai, nobody is a VIP in quite this way… and it annoys the average person that on one of the busiest stretches, with two main hospitals, three colleges, four schools, several offices and hundreds of residential buildings, people are denied access even if they themselves are facing an emergency. Why? Because some minor mantriji gets priority over us – the tax payers who shell out the lolly for those ten police cars, an ambulance and god knows what else to protect these non-entities. The time has come to review these antiquated, feudalistic and worthless rituals. Politicians are public servants – not 'rulers'. Let them set the example themselves by voluntarily giving up these absurd and expensive perks. Now that's what I'd call a top class 'event' that doesn't need any management. The first person to do so, gets my vote!
22 comments:
- hitch writer said...
Alas !! It is shocking to read this... really. If people are brandishing this event it just goes to show their sensibilities rather should i say in-sensibilities.
- December 16, 2008 at 1:11 PM
- Unknown said...
Hi Shobha Ji,
I've been following your blog from last 2-3 months. The way you have expressed the feelings shared by all indians after 26/11 attack, made me bigger fan of yours. I really condemn the people who want to gain from this unfortunate event in any way.
- December 16, 2008 at 1:38 PM
Advertising is everywhere. The number of popups and banners that I see everytime I log in online illustrates just one example of how advertising has a tendency to run amok and annoy even the most patient selves.
Some people in PR will utlize any piece of rope, crook, or cranny upon which they can hoist their calls for attention. Using the terror attacks as one such platform for advertising is morally corrupt. And as you pointed out, many people who fall for the bait are innocent. And since one cannot be outraged about an injustice that one does not know about, the only thing that can truly stop the advertising evils is altering one another about what's going on. That makes the 'innocents' aware. And then they can protest.
- December 16, 2008 at 1:50 PM
- Bhavisha Joshi said...
I agree with you .. The way you have expressed the feeling after 26/11.. you are putting your honest efforts to keep the flame high for transformation in our country.. i am more scared, forget netas, but our own people are trying to get their own benefits from terror attack..
I believe this fight is not only to transform the system but to transform our own mindset..
Its not impossible... it Just need to reach to common man that we have been used after going through this tragedy, some people are still sucking our blood to added an extra point to their brand.. We should not support those people..
- December 16, 2008 at 2:00 PM
- rainboy said...
i hope some of them do show that they have leader in them..a meek hope though.
recently it was in the news that the Mla's from haryana would not have security guard...at least we have start.
- December 16, 2008 at 3:30 PM
- Munmun said...
I totally agree with you. Everywhere we keep boasting we are the largest democracy in the world, but are we really?
Nevertheless, in that regard, I would also point out that it is "us" we elect such incapable politicians; and give them the stature to rise up to be rulers. Unless we ourselves are conscious, awakened, enlightened, whatever you call it, it's unfortunate that mere complains from you or me are not going to suffice such periods of crisis !
- December 16, 2008 at 3:32 PM
- Unknown said...
yeah, i agree with you about the superfluity of politicians.
- December 16, 2008 at 4:31 PM
- Unknown said...
u look at the scenerio around, its nearlly going to be a month to attacks and nothing has been done.UNSC has banned that outfit and thsts it!!! there leaders are roaming free in POK where as our leaders are just acting like barking dogs.Its strange to find such a big heard of impotent men at place(indian politicians).Have u heard this Ms.Shobha, reward pakistan is getting for attacking Mumbai usd$15 billion dollars which Senetaor keery was refeering that it would be linked to conditions , which is absolutely crap.All the last aid has gone in pockets of generals and rasing terrorists.Inspite of all this all the world leaders are coming to India so that we dont attack Pa.well i think they forgot in last 1000 yrs India have never striked anyone first so all that amunition which we pay by our taxes is actually rotten bcso of these impotents SOB's.
- December 16, 2008 at 5:06 PM
"Deep down we have the qualities of clarity, awareness, sensitivity, warmth and love,
but , we have little idea at the outset just how deep and vast those qualities can be"
s.v.siva reddy
- December 16, 2008 at 5:54 PM
- Vikrant said...
hi shobaa mam ,
hats off to you ,
ur the one persoan or i ill say after rakhi sawant ur da one who realy meant of straightforward
keep it up i am with you
best regards,
- December 16, 2008 at 6:24 PM
- Reflections said...
LOL Vikrant is funny...can just imagine the expression on ur face:-D.
But jokes apart...I wish I was there....to catch u almost falling off ur chair;-D
- December 16, 2008 at 7:21 PM
- mannab said...
Dear Shobha,
This is typical of North Indians' culture. We Marathi Mumbaikars should not follow them and you have rightly expressed anger. Do you read Sadhana, Pune's Marathi Weekly? Their latest issue dated 13th Dec has thought provoking articles one after other. Apart from Shri Govind Talwalkar and Suhas Palashikar, some readers have written very thoughtfully. All these Marathi magazines do not even intend to make any business out of this calamity of 26/11.
Mangesh Nabar
- December 16, 2008 at 8:29 PM
Hi Shobha,
Have you done anything else than giving interview to NDTV and other channels and charging them heavy fees?
- December 16, 2008 at 9:36 PM
- Ankur Kakkar said...
well in that case Mrs De... your first vote must go to our honorable union home minister Mr. P.Chidambram, who has declined the offer of Z category security cover for himself... In my opinion, he has set an example for other politicians to follow..
- December 16, 2008 at 11:05 PM
- Sathyanarayana said...
The government should be afraid of people , not people who should be afraid of government. Every minister who tries to enjoy any kind of perks, should think before hand, if this is going to be issue with the people. Having lived in the welfare countries like Europe. I feel government here atleast looks after people, as they pay their tax, sending a mobile document, Health insurance for every citizen(NHS in UK), subsidized medicines(NHS in UK), Mid wives for pregnant women paid by government, and even a guy who is on unpaid leave due to sickness- french government pays him 100% salary. Why the F**k, is Indian government just counting the tax money of poor middle and lower class people, without actually think of reforms to help it's citizens.
- December 17, 2008 at 4:11 AM
- Gautam Satpathy said...
The Public Servants are the rulers! And their servants are worse than their mistresses.
I thank you for the unambiguous statement, Shobhaa. I too will vote for the Public Servant that learns to behave like one.
And speaking of servants, the so called Civil Servants are much worse. At least the politician was elected by a majority vote and can be kicked out when they don't deliver. What of the fat cat IAS, IPS and other idiots who lord it over the nation and do little to no fruitful work? I, a worker ant, bring in the dollars and pay the taxes. All these idiots do is count my money and spend it while driving around our cities in Honda Cities that my tax Rupees paid for. Accountants! Who think they are better than I!
Thanks Shobhaa for a nice post.
By the way why are you on Blogger? You should have your own domain name.
- December 17, 2008 at 9:54 AM
- Arjun said...
"The time has come to review these antiquated, feudalistic and worthless rituals."
Very well said!!!
Methinks it's time we rocked the boat!!
- December 17, 2008 at 3:31 PM
- yogendra said...
nice views on 26/11..but keep mentioning these useless politicians in sumway or other in ur evry article .as a anecdote or sumthin,even aftr 2-3 months..cos i m sure these useless ppl who wre vry forthcomin in announcin money for families of the dead n injured wll 4get dem soon...n after 2-3 months u wll c those injured ppl in JJ hospital unable 2 pay their bills..
- December 17, 2008 at 4:58 PM
- Sruthisagar Yamunan said...
well if you are waiting to vote such a person then I am really sorry to say that you will never get a chance to vote :D
You talk so much on this issue. Why not join politics and try to bring a change?
- December 17, 2008 at 5:57 PM
- Another Kiran In NYC said...
Branded Patriotism by commercial interests in somewhat understandable but not condoned at all. They make no bones about the fact that they are in business to make money off our happinesses and tragedies.
What I find reprehensible is when Politicians indulge in promoting thier own brand blatantly using this tragedy as a backdrop.
Case in point...
AR Antulay was CM when I was a student back in Mumbai. His record was dismal and then he was investigated for corruption of the highest order. He has been in the political wilderness since. I am not sure how much sucking up he had to do to HIB (plenty I imagine, because HIB has a insider political reputation for wanting much in exchange for little mercies... after all she has learnt at the feet of the Master, her MIL) to get to be Minorities MInister.
This statement is a blantant and disgusting attempt at keeping his brand (and his reason for being a minister at all) relevant.
I would not mind if he privately expressed doubts to the investigators about the circumstances of Karkare's death. After all every circumstance must be investigated. But such public statements slyly insinuating that a certain section "offed" the man is totally uncalled for and takes the focus off the real issue.
Oh and I also think Narendra Modi (very able administrator he may be) is also guilty of promoting his own brand reprehensibly in his Mumbai Drama.
Oh and who can forget those disgusting billboards saluting the dead with the politicians faces prominently displayed?
Which is the greater evil?
Politicians or Commercial interests indulging in brand recognition campaigns and propoganda at a time of tragedy?
Oh and if I recieved an invitation to a "terror attacks event" I am not sure what I would do... laugh hysterically or cry! Both by turns I imagine.
- December 17, 2008 at 8:25 PM
This is infact a good example of how our politicians are a reflection of our own society. We get what we deserve!
- December 17, 2008 at 9:39 PM
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Sometime's It's Lonely At the Top and Sometime's It Is Peaceful
February 10, 2016
I believe that this Gull was in his/her peaceful state at the top of the Evergreen tree. Perhaps lonely, but I think not, just enjoying a short rest at the top of the tall tree before flying off again.
I appreciated that this Gull perched and posed so nicely for me and my camera. Taken outside our room at the Princess McKinley Lodge in Alaska.
"Eagles are seagulls with a good hairdo." ~ Douglas Coupland
Thank you for your comments and critiques.
Have a fine day today my friends.
Making Pretty
January 6, 2016
I really don't know what kind of bird this is, but I "think" it's a peach-colored Cockatoo. It was cleaning it's feathers and I loved the pose that I caught here. I think that he/she is making himself or herself pretty for the camera.
Thank you for your comments and critiques.
Have a wonderful day today my friends!
It's Good to Be Green
November 22, 2015
Thank you for your comments on yesterday's photo of Case! I'm very appreciative.
This lovely bird (sorry I don't know what kind it is) was such an amazing color of green that I couldn't resist taking it's photo. This is best viewed in larger sizes.
"Let us be grateful to people who make us happy, they are the charming gardeners who make our souls blossom." ~ Marcel Proust
Thank you for your comments and critiques.
Have a grateful day today my friends!
The Cocky Cockatoo
October 13, 2015
Thank you for your comments on my Alaska Waterfall photo yesterday, they were all very much appreciated.
Based on the Title of this photo, let me say "That at least I "think" it's a Cockatoo", but I'm not sure. There weren't any signs to help identify this pretty bird. So, I'm sort of guessing.
However, from my Internet research the body and head looks like a Cockatoo, but the beak of this bird and the photos on the Internest don't match. So I'm not sure exactly what he/she is, but likely related to the Cockatoo.
What I thought was so fun about him/her is that as people gathered around to admire him/her, he would start swaying gently on the limb as if moving to music that was playing in his head.
This photo is best viewed in larger sizes.
Thank you for your comments and critiques!
Have a great day!
The Magic and Magestic Nature of Water
October 12, 2015
This is just a very tiny portion of an exceptionally tall waterfall that we saw about 30 miles north of Skagway, Alaska.
"I love the sounds and the power of pounding water, whether it is the waves or a waterfall." ~ Mike May
Thank you for your comments and critiques.
Have a fabulous day today my friends!
On a Clear Day, You Can See Forever
October 11, 2015
This wonderful lighthouse was taken several years ago when Bill and I took a whale watching cruise near Victoria, BC. I loved all the lighthouses that we saw along the way. I wish I could recall where we were, or the name of the lighthouse, but I do not. If anyone recognizes it, please let me know.
"Inside my empty bottle I was constructing a lighthouse while all the others were making ships." ~ Charles Simic
Thank you for your comments and critiques! I'm going to be late commenting because this afternoon is our annual car club picnic at our house. We are expecting about 80 people here. Wish us luck. :-)
Have a de-lightful day today my friends!
Late Post: Thanks to John Murphy he has identified this as Sister's Inlet Lighthouse.
Polly Wants Her Photo Taken
September 14, 2015
I'm not really sure of course whether this is a Polly or a Paul, but whatever the gender may be, one thing for sure though, is this is a lovely bird. Best viewed in larger sizes.
"Another thing I like to do is sit back and take in nature. To look at the birds, listen to their singing, go hiking, camping and jogging and running, walking along the beach, playing games and sometimes being alone with the great outdoors. It's very special to me." ~ Larry Wilcox
I'm going to be out of town this week on another business trip {Sigh} but I will do my best to browse and comment on your photos. Thank you for taking the time to comment and share critiques.
Have a colorful day today my friends.
Polly Wants a Photo?
August 15, 2015
Two parrots at Blodel Conservatory in Vancouver, BC.
Have a colorful day today my friends!
May 7, 2015
Some time ago, I was contacted by a University asking to use some of my photos in a textbook for children with learning disabilities. The book was to be filled with everyday photos of things to help the children learn to recognize the aspects in the world around them. They included plants, flowers, trees, birds, insects, and a lot of other easily recognizable images. They chose three of my photos to use, and I was thrilled. In each they removed the background and isolated the subject. The University then sent the isolated subject photos back to me for approval. This is one of my photos that they chose.
I wish I had the skills to do this type of work in Photoshop, but I don't....yet. I'm still hanging on to the dream of taking PS classes when I retire.
"And in the end it's not the years in your life that count. It's the life in your years."~ Abraham Lincoln
Thank you for your comments and critiques!
Have an inspirational day today my friends!
A Beautiful - But Unknown Bird
This photo was taken in the Fishlake National Forest of Utah. I believe this is a type of Hawk, but I'm not sure. I would really appreciate help with the identification if anyone knows the species. Thank you for looking and commenting.
2011 - Wind power in West Texas! Notice the big beautiful sky on this hot summer day.
Close up of the face of a Hackberry Emperor butterfly
September 3, 2012
Happy Labor Day!!!! I hope everyone is doing something fun and relaxing today.
As most of you know, I've been off line for about 3 weeks now, and I can say that I've missed browsing all of your shots, but it's been a nice break too. While I was not posting, I was however taking lots of photos. Bill spent 4 days at the Bonneville Salt Flat Speed trials, and I spent about a day there too. Then we drove to Jackson, WY and spent a week exploring the beauty of Wyoming, Idaho, Yellowstone and the Grand Tetons. I haven't spent any time processing the photos yet, but hope to do so in the next several days and weeks.
This is one of the racers at Bonneville getting ready for his run on the salt, in his vehicle that was in the 'Streamliner" category. There were several of these "rocket looking" cars on the salt. There was a wide variety of cars and motorcycles there. The salt was blindingly white - it looked like snow. It even caked on the vehicles like snow does. I'll share some of those shots too.
It's good to be back, I missed all of you.
Have a bright, sunshine-filled holiday today my friends!
May 2, 2012
The Seagulls said, "Mine. Mine. Mine. Mine."
Then Nigel said, "Oh would you just shut up? You're rats with wings." ~ Finding Nemo quote
Mine, mine, mine............. is what this Seagull seems to be screaming to the other Seagull that had just chased him off one of the outside patio tables at one of the lounges at the Atlantis Resort.
This little place was quite and had a wonderful view from the patio of the water park and aquarium and Bill and I had stopped in there late one afternoon for some quite time, relaxation and a cool beverage. Even though the Seagulls, the Pidgeons and the Ring-necked Doves tried to make a nuisance of themselves occasionally, it wasn't enough to make us or the other people leave.
Thank you all for you kind and educational comments on my Atlantis fountain shot yesterday.
Have a 'red-letter' sort of day today where everyone speaks softly and tells you good things!
A beautiful dragonfly caught from afar.
January 12, 2012
"Tiptoe dancing on the water"
The Jungle Gardens at Avery Island were established to try to save the White Egrets. E.A. McIlhenny, or "Mr. Ned" as he was affectionately known, founded a bird colony in the 1890s — later called Bird City — after plume hunters slaughtered egrets by the thousands for feathers to make fashionable ladies' hats. Mr. Ned gathered up eight young egrets, raised them in captivity on the Island, and released them in the fall to migrate across the Gulf of Mexico. The following spring the birds returned to the Island with others of their species - a migration that continues to this day, as thousands of snowy white egrets and other water birds return to Bird City each spring. This vast, protected rookery owes its existence to Mr. Ned.
Since it was so cold while we were there, there were very few birds to be seen - I would love to go back when they are all in residence.
This isn't the greatest shot, but I liked the way it looked as if the Egret was tip-toeing across the water. I couldn't get very close, and my long lens just wasn't long enough to get great shots, but I was fairly pleased with this one. It just whetted my appetite & makes me want to go back there in the warm weather.
Have a super day my friends!!
Cicada, Up Close & Personal
December 3, 2011
This is one ugly bug, but I LIKE the sound they make. This is a Cicada that I found sitting in the bed of an old pickup truck in Oklahoma.
According to Wikipedia: Cicadas are a part of the superfamily Cicadoidea, with large eyes wide apart on the head and usually transparent, well-veined wings. There are about 2,500 species of cicada around the world, and many of them remain unclassified. Cicadas live in temperate to tropical climates where they are among the most widely recognized of all insects, mainly due to their large size and unique sound. Cicadas are often colloquially called locusts,[1] although they are unrelated to true locusts, which are a kind of grasshopper. Cicadas are related to leafhoppers and spittlebugs.
I like sitting out on the back patio of our house in the evenings and hearing the Cicada songs. Hope you enjoy this & that it's not too much of an 'ick' factor for you.
Take care my friends,
November 1, 2011
This looks a little bit like a Fall scene with the colors, but it is actually wild flowers in New Mexico at the height of the drought, so they are looking pretty wimpy. As we were driving up into the hills I snapped this shot from the car, and didn't even realize that the bee was in the shot until I processed it. I rather liked the way it looked.
Check it out in X2 to see the detail.
Have a great day my friends!!!
September 8, 2011
I had to travel all the way to New Mexico to get another dragonfly shot - LOL. But I was pleased with this one. I chased this little guy all around a roadside park near Hobbs, NM trying to get a shot of him and he wasn't being very cooperative, then just as I thought I had the 'best' shot, Bill stepped into my frame. Oh well. Here's the next best shot.
of this dragon. :-)). I did like the flowers that he was buzzing around though.
So, here's the best I could do after 30 minutes chasing this guy.
I've cropped the shot and enhanced with Topaz Adjust filter.
Check it out in the large sizes, I think it's pretty interesting, especially because I'm on dragonfly novice.
I appreciate your support and constructive comments. I learn so much from all of you. This community is full of awesome and talented photographers.
Have a great day my friends,
August 8, 2011
It's a silly hat Monday! I thought it might be fun to start off the week with something crazy & silly. This is the clown that works the Stockyards in Fort Worth Texas. He makes hundreds of "Longhorn" balloon hats every day. All over the Stockyards, you can see kids and adults wearing them. There's just no way you can keep yourself from smiling when you see one.
In this shot, the little fellow that just got his, is walking away from the camera with Mom & Dad, and the clown is looking down at his next tiny customer and had just asked, "What color do you want your longhorns to be?"
Best viewed in X2
Hope you enjoy, and hope it brings you a big smile to start off your week!!!!
Hot, Yet Happy Dogs
August 7, 2011
"A Couple of Happy, but Hot Pooches"
These guys were so cute, and friendly I couldn't resist taking their photo. But I think you can tell, they were pretty hot while walking around with their owner.
Thanks so much for all the comments on the shot of Ashlee feeding the Dolphins, I realy appreciated them all and she was thrilled too!!!
Have an awesome Sunday everyone!
August 1, 2011
Whoo hoo - I got one!!! After seeing all of the wonderful dragonfly shots, I finally had about 3 seconds to catch this one in our yard. I just love seeing all the shots that the SmugMugers post of these wonderful creatures, so it was a thrill to get this one. I've only been lucky enough to get one other one (or at least a decent picture of one) about a year or so ago, and according to Papamugger, that one was a Damselfly. I'm going to have to defer to Papa to tell us what this one is, as I have no clue.
Check it out in X2 - it's pretty cool. I love the way it looks like they have 'helmets' on.
Thanks so much to everyone for all that really nice comments on the Chicago at night shot , I was just overwhelmed with the response and really, really appreciated them all very much.
I'm posting tomorrow's shot a little early as I'll be on the road - driving this time, so won't have much time to post. I'm hoping to comment tomorrow evening though.
Have a great week!!!
Follow up: Papamugger says that this is a Checkered Setwing that is found mostly in Texas and Oklahoma (is that a red OU helmet on his head?). Thanks for the information from the Dragonfly King!
Flying High
July 7, 2011
This is the last of the four balloons that were flying in line down the Rio Grande Gorge. Being able to take a hot air balloon ride was one of the things on my "Bucket List" that I'm now able to scratch off the list. But I can tell you that the ride was so much fun, that I'll do it again if I ever get the chance. It's so quiet and peaceful being above the earth early in the morning. It's a very cool experience. I'd highly recommend it to all Smugmuggers.
Check out the detail in the larger sizes - processed with Topaz Adjust using the mild detail filter.
Thank you all for your comments on yesterday's balloon shot, they are very much appreciated!
Flying the Rio Grande River
July 6, 2011
Here's another shot of the morning ride in the hot air balloons. There were 4 balloons. I took this shot of the two lead balloons from the 3rd balloon that we were in, and there was another balloon behind ours. We are flying down the Rio Grande Gorge and this shot was taken about 7:15 in the morning. As you can see the lighting was a little tough, but I liked the way the river and the bridge are still in early morning shadow as the balloons rode high in the sun that morning. We actually did fly down very close to the water a little bit further down the river, and it was cool to be able to see the rushing water from the air. Check this out in X3 as the details are easier to see in the larger size.
Thanks to everyone for your comments on the gas pumps yesterday, they are very much appreciated!!
June 27, 2011
This isn't the greatest, or most interesting shot ever, but the backstory is kind of unusual. I walked out of the workshop and heard this loud "whooshing" sound. I looked around and saw this balloon being inflated in our neighbor's front yard. I watched until it was full then it took off and I snapped this photo as it floated across the field in front of the house.
We are off to vacation today headed to New Mexico. Hopefully there will be some new photos week after next. Commenting will be limited, but I promise to catch up when we get back home.
Have a wonderful week.
A Sad Loss
May 8, 2011
Sorry that I'm so late posting today, but after the week's worth of wedding festivities, I was late getting back home from Austin. However, it was well worth every minute, and the wedding and reception were both super. Thanks to everyone for your kind comments.
This is a photo of a young girl laying on the giant trunk of a huge Oak tree that blew over a couple of weeks ago when we had 80 MPH straight-line winds. How sad to loose this fabulous old tree. It was like loosing an old friend. Best viewed in the larger sizes.
This tree is in the Getzendaner Park in Waxahachie, Texas. I'm sure this tree is well over 100 years old. There are many more this size that are thankfully still standing in the park. It's a lovely and wonderful park.
I processed this shot with Topaz spicify filter.
Check out these other two links to more clearly see the size of this huge old tree - it was a giant. Everyone that sees the loss of this beauty have tears in their eyes.
Thanks to everyone for your kind comments this week. I really appreciate them very much.
May 7, 2011 - this is an upside-down Hackberry Emperor butterfly that I caught "hanging around" the house the other day. Best viewed in X2.
Thanks so much for all the comments this week, I apologize for being less than able to comment back, but I will catch up soon.
The wedding went well last night & Misty was of course a gorgeous bride. We were so proud. Tonight is the reception/party for about 300 people, so that should be fun too.
Take care my friends, and have a wonderful Saturday!
May 3, 2011
A little break from the car photos today. This is a shot of some Hackberry Emperor Butterflies on some shrubs outside our house. We are just covered with these little butterflies and they love the blooms on this shrub. Papa, help me out with the name of this shrub.
These lovely little butterflies are not the only bugs in our yard, we have "June Bugs" everywhere (not sure that's their real name) but they are like little brown, kamokazi bugs that throw themselves violently into the doors & windows of the house. The June Bugs dive into the doors & windows every night for the last 2 nights. They are everywhere & nasty little buggers.
I'd like more of these pretty little butterflies please - no more nasty June bugs.
Best viewed in X2.
PP is Topaz spicify filter - it's fast becoming one of my favorites.
Hope you enjoy these pretty little butterflies!
Best Regards,
March 11, 2011
More signs of Spring!!! The honey bees are working hard right now. I walked by one of our Bradford Pears and the whole tree was buzzing - litterly buzzing with the noise of these busy little guys at their work. I ran into the house and grabbed the camera, put the macro lens on and snapped a LOT of bee photos. This is my favorite, I hope you enjoy it too. I particularly liked all the details: the iridescent sheen of the wings, the tiny hairs on the body of the bee and the finer points of the flowers are my favorite features of this photo.
Best viewed in larger sizes.
Thank you all for your wonderful comments on the car shot today. I am so sorry I'm traveling & having long days and late nights so I'm not commenting much. But I'll catch up soon.
Have a BEE-U-T-FUL day!
The Beast
Yeeee - ouch!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
This guy's sting is powerful. Caught him on the hummingbird feeder. This Texas Yellow Jacket is fierce and scary. Glad I got his shot before he saw me.
Hope you enjoy!!!!!!!!!!!!!
A beautiful pair of ducks lazily swimming in a Missouri river near Spencer Missouri. It was a lovely river and a beautiful area, particularly in the fall of 2010.
Hackberry Emperor butterfly hiding in the wild plums of North Texas, in the early spring.
A flier for sure! A Pro Mod boat racing at Fort Worth, TX, but he didn't beat my brother Marty Logan.
My Brother Marty Logan flying across the waves in his Pro Mod boat!!!!!!!!!! I'm so proud of him!!!!!!!!!!
The Queen
THE QUEEN!!! (September 26, 2010)
She is such a beauty & is poised so delicately on this wildflower in North Texas.
Hope all the SmugMuggers enjoy this butterfly pic. Found her while tromping around the woods near our house today.
Thanks for all the wonderful comments on the twins "swinging" shot last night.
Have a great Sunday evening.
I'll be back on the road tomorrow (a 7:20 a.m. flight from Dallas) and not back to Big D until Wednesday, October 6th.
But I'm taking my camera to Birmingham, AL and Louisville, KY. I figure the Louisville portion of the trip may give me some opportunities for photographs.
I'll try to comment while I'm on the road, but won't be able to post pics.
Take care,
Best regards,
September 5, 2010
Vintage Flyover.
This is a shot from yesterday's Warbirds on Parade show. Bill & I went and took our cars (the '66 Fairlane 427 and the '69 Mach 1 Mustang). But the stars of the show were lots and lots of vintage WWI and WWII and later airplanes & helicopters. The car show was just a minor part of the event (even though there were about 100 classic cars there) The planes stole the show, and we had such a great time looking at them. We took two of the grandboys (age 2 and 4) and they were just beside themselves with excitement over the planes at the airport in Lancaster, TX. It was wonderful day.
I saw these planes taking off and thought they were going home (it was late in the afternoon), then I heard them coming back over the airport for a fly over. I had about 6 seconds to throw the camera up, focus & shoot. I'm pretty pleased with the result here.
This is best viewed in large or x-large format.
Great birthday party today for Chenoa & all of our kids & grandkids. The weather was just perfect for hot dogs & hamburgers on the patio. And then we all lingered over the Oreo Cookie cake & ice cream.
Have a happy Labor Day,
A Skipper Buddy.....
September 3, 2010
I don't know what this cute little bug is - but it caught my eye today on the weeds near my house. I loved his big, black eyes. I hope you enjoy too. There's no crop or post editing on this one - just got lucky. Check it out in X2 - it's pretty cool.
Have a wonderful evening & a great Labor Day weekend Smug Muggers. We are headed to another car show tomorrow, but this one also includes vintage WWII airplanes - so it should be fun & provide some great photo ops.
Sunday is my daughter's 34th birthday, Gee that makes me feel old! LOL - but she's a wonderful daughter, so Mom is so proud. We will have my daughter (Chenoa - American Indian name that means White Dove of Peace). her husband & two girls, Bill's children and grandchildren mid afternoon on Sunday. We'll have a great time grilling hamburgers to celebrate Chenoa's birthday & Labor Day. When Chenoa was a littl girl, she always thought that the big Labor Day Weekend Celebrations - were all about her & her birthday. That made me smile. Many years later, she figured it out & just shares her birthday with the country. :))!
Between Bill & I we have 7 grandchildren ranging in age from 16 years old to 4 months old. So Sunday's celebration will be loads of fun - count the parents, grandparents, kids & grandkids - we'll have 15 people for dogs & burgers on Sunday!!! I'm looking so very forward to it.
Then on Monday, Bill & I will be taking our cars to another car show in Burleson, TX. So next week - watch for lots of vintage car shots.
Love the Smug Mug community & all your fabulous photos. Have a great holiday weekend!!
May 2, 2012
The Seagulls said, "Mine. Mine. Mine. Mine."
Then Nigel said, "Oh would you just shut up? You're rats with wings." ~ Finding Nemo quote
Mine, mine, mine............. is what this Seagull seems to be screaming to the other Seagull that had just chased him off one of the outside patio tables at one of the lounges at the Atlantis Resort.
This little place was quite and had a wonderful view from the patio of the water park and aquarium and Bill and I had stopped in there late one afternoon for some quite time, relaxation and a cool beverage. Even though the Seagulls, the Pidgeons and the Ring-necked Doves tried to make a nuisance of themselves occasionally, it wasn't enough to make us or the other people leave.
Thank you all for you kind and educational comments on my Atlantis fountain shot yesterday.
Have a 'red-letter' sort of day today where everyone speaks softly and tells you good things!


text:
One of the first golf clubs in the United States, Madison Golf Club was established in 1896 and has been in continuous play ever since. As a private golf club located in Northern New Jersey we enjoy a long standing reputation for our superbly maintained golf course and warm atmosphere. The club has great pride in its long history and always keeps an eye towards the future providing our members with an exceptional golf and social experience.
We encourage you to enjoy all our web site has to offer. Visitors, guests and members have access to information in full view about the course, club and club history. The member's only area provides extensive information about all club activities, policies and communications.
The rich traditions of golf and camaraderie are alive and well at Madison Golf Club. It is our intention that all members and guests enjoy their time at the Club.
Madison Golf Club 155 Green Avenue, NJ 07940
Phone: 973-377-5264 Fax: 973-377-2384 email: email@example.com [Map]


text:
Aurora woman's last known conversation was with convicted killer
One thing I've noticed way too frequently since I began writing this blog six years ago this month: killers are often the stereotypical wolf in sheep's clothing.
In 1990, 24-year-old Laurie Renee Lucas was seen with just such a wolf. Since Laurie parted with William James Bannister, she was never seen or heard from again by parents, acquaintances, neighbors or friends. She just vanished.
Bannister has a track record for ingratiating himself with people unfamiliar with his background, according to numerous news reports in Colorado and California.
Like many of his kind, he was always eager to help strangers, especially in caring for their children.
Bannister was a charming, deferential neighbor.
Overburdened with details like working and raising a child alone, sometimes people make mistakes about who they trust with the safety of their own children.
Bannister was a thin man. He had thick brown hair and a bushy mustache. In the winter of 1986, he lived in a trailer next door to Debra Ann Youngs and her 7-year-old daughter April in the Woodchuck RV Park in Temecula, California, which is 93 miles Southeast of Los Angeles.


text:
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This Tau Kappa Epsilon Lettered Tank Top with Sewn-On Letters is part of our huge selection of Tau Kappa Epsilon Clothing. Customize your colors and letters below!
- Detailed Description
- Production Time
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Product ID: IHO-TWILL-3480-M-SOL-3
Sizing Recommendation: Regular Unisex Sizing (Consider Ordering one Size smaller if you'd like a slimmer fit).
Available sizes: XSmall, Small, Medium, Large, XLarge
Style: Poly/Cotton Tank Top
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Basic Description: Slim fit, popular tank top
Manufacturer Description: A unisex tank in our 50/50 combed cotton/ poly blend. Featuring a durable ribbed neckline, as well as durable ribbed arm openings. The combed cotton/ poly blend provides an ultra soft, worn in feel and superior drape. Poly-Cotton (50% Polyester / 50% Combed-Cotton) construction.
Full Description: The Unisex Jersey Tank with the Sewn-On Letters is our most popular tank top available and not only because it comes in neon colors. This is a great tank due to its high quality and budget friendly price. Personalize the poly cotton Tank with the Tau Kappa Epsilon sewn-on letters and choose from a large variety of colored fabrics and premium patterns. The size of the letters and the placement are: 4" Letters - Center Chest.
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This item takes 7 business days (M-F) to produce. It will ship out when complete.
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Greek U offers a money back guarantee on orders under $100. Any orders over $100 and all group orders are subject to our Manufacturing Guarantee. Since products are custom made, please make sure that all of the details of your order are correct before ordering. If you need to return or exchange, please follow the steps below within 10 days of receiving your order to fill out a request form. We'll send you instructions on how to return the item(s). You can also email email@example.com to discuss your order.
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text:
AP Sources: Health Law Sign-Ups on Track to Hit 7M
WASHINGTON (AP) - Government officials tell The Associated Press that President Barack Obama's health care law is on track to hit 7 million sign-ups as a result of a deadline-day surge.
Two officials spoke on condition of anonymity Monday because they were not authorized to discuss the matter ahead of an official announcement.
Seven million sign-ups was the original target set by the Congressional Budget Office for subsidized private health insurance offered through new online markets.
That was scaled back to 6 million after the disastrous launch of HealthCare.gov last fall.
The 7 million-mark would beat expectations.
It was in sight on a day when the administration saw surging consumer interest in the nation's newest social program, but struggled with repeated website glitches.


text:
by Lou Mancinelli
From leaving film school at Temple University early to opening a restaurant on the Mediterranean during his travels and later a successful club in Brooklyn in his 20s, local realtor Christopher Plant has led a life beyond the 9-to-5.
In his time, Plant has helped to start an English-speaking canal company affiliated with a comedy club during a stint in Amsterdam; he lived in Key West and worked as a chef in a New Hampshire ski lodge.
In 1991, at age 23, he enrolled in the Massachusetts College of Art and Design in Boston, where he essentially started his college career a second time. There he pursued various disciplines and experimented with techniques like including text in his artwork.
Plant, a Germantown resident, is currently exhibiting 70-plus works at his 7224 Germantown Ave. studio space, through Feb. 11.
"I love for the painting to have a whole story mixed up in it," said Plant. "I'm finally taking the time to come back. It was like I opened up a floodgate."
In his work there is a wavering of line and vibrant offsetting of colors reminiscent of pop art. The pieces themselves might be described as tiny pop songs but enjoyable ones with identifiable and succinct themes. They are of a child, but lack childishness. There is isolation there and playful connectedness.
Plant had been away from the easel for almost two decades. He points to abstract expressionism as a heavy influence. "I'm a realtor, and people know me for that," said Plant, an agent for Mt. Airy's Elfant Wissahickon who won the Greater Philadelphia Association of Realtors Rookie of the Year award in 2005. But do people know him for his art? "No one has any idea."
Plant enjoys to experiment with texture. Sometimes he preps a dozen pieces at once, weaving between them, adding shades here, tone there; layering the canvas as the piece evolves over a few weeks.
Raised in Carlisle, near Harrisburg, Plant moved to Philadelphia after high school to study film at Temple. But two years into school he decided to leave. "I just wasn't ready," he said. "I just had to wander."
Chris landed in Key West in the late '80s at age 20. Plant says it hadn't yet been overwhelmed by tourists. He installed ceiling fans at 7 a.m. and was scuba diving by mid-afternoon. A pirate's paradise, he called it. There were drug smugglers and IRS evaders, way-out types, thrill seekers, folks in search of kicks. "You could kill yourself losing touch with reality," he said about the experience.
He saw it happen to people around him. In 1990 he moved to New Hampshire and worked in a ski lodge. The following year he followed a woman to Tel Aviv, Israel, where he opened a restaurant and stayed for almost two years before returning to the U.S.
His brother had attended art school, and Plant headed to MassArt in Boston in 1993. He finished school two years later and traveled to Amsterdam, where his brother had moved. There he helped found the aforementioned tour company. "Having a boat in Amsterdam is like having a Cadillac convertible when you're 16," Plant said.
The run among the canals lasted a year. Plant returned to the States a second time, this time to Durham, N.C., where he worked as a master carpenter with The American Dance Festival. He'd learned the craft while working jobs while in Philly as a film student.
Next, Plant submerged himself in New York City in 1997. His first night in town, a friend took him to a dance performance in Central Park where he became entranced by one of the dancers. Soon afterwards he was hired to be the company's technical director for a month-long European tour.
The dancer became his companion, and they now have two children. But that came later. First, Plant worked the next few years for various modern dance companies making sets, designing lights and touring all over the world, to Palermo, Brazil, California, Paris, Berlin, Budapest and more.
While in New York he also became involved with an art and performance space in Brooklyn in an old mayonnaise factory.
Called Galapagos Art Space, it still operates today. After 9/11, though, Plant moved to Philadelphia.
Aside from coaching his sons, 11 and 12, in baseball and travel soccer, Plant is also on the board of Hidden City and Franklin's Paine Park, a group devoted to the development of a skate park now under construction near the Philadelphia Museum of Art.
This May, Plant will officially marry his companion Jessica Meeker, co-owner of a local Pilates/yoga studio, while celebrating the 15-year anniversary of their first date.
More information at email@example.com or www.christopherplant.com.


text:
Date: May 1st, 2011
Woke up at 6am, for the same reason I woke up yesterday at the same time — no electricity. Anyway, I had to get ready and reach the transport station in a few minutes.
I boarded the van and was joined by the two Italian girls who were part of my tour group yesterday. The van left El Nido at 7am and the journey to Puerto Princesa would take around 5 hours (cost ₱500/$11/€8). I chose to take a van taxi instead of the bus because I didn't want to risk missing my 5:25pm flight back to Manila.
I didn't bother taking any photos throughout the journey because I was behind tinted glass and also, I just didn't feel like holding my camera. I have taken enough photos the past two weeks! 🙂 The journey was smooth and we only stopped once for a snack break.
The van reached Puerto Princesa just before noon and dropped passengers off at different spots. Myself and the two Italian girls got down at the van company's office, which was the last stop. Our flights were both around the same time, so we placed our bags at the van company's office and decided to have lunch together.
We sat at a nice looking restaurant located along the road leading to the airport.
Post-lunch, the three of us collected our bags and took a tricycle taxi to the airport. But because we were rather early for our evening flights, the airport security said they would only allow passengers in at 3pm.
Good thing I had the company of the two Italian girls (well, one of them anyway… the other girl dozed off). We chatted away until it was time for us to go in. Once inside, I checked in and got my window seat. The Italians were on a Cebu Pacific flight, which was delayed by a little, but my Zest Airways flight was on time, so I boarded first.
The following was why I insisted on getting a window seat:
As I sat looking out the window, in some ways I felt a sense of relief heading back to Manila. No more waking up early! I had nothing really planned for my last few days in Manila besides shopping and meeting my friend Aimee.
I landed in Manila as it got dark, just past 7pm. Collected my bags and exited the airport. I approached a taxi, but the driver quoted a rate which was too high and he wouldn't turn on the meter. I had to walk outside of the airport and hail a passing taxi from the main road.
The last two times I landed in Manila, I chose to stay at the Kabayan in Pasay, but this time I chose to be in a more touristy area. I had asked Aimee to book me a place in Malate, near Robinsons Place and out of the two shortlisted backpacker hostels – Malate Pensionne Inn and Friendly's Guesthouse – she ended up reserving a bed for me at Friendly's.
Once I got to Malate (the taxi fare came to ₱110), the roads were busy as this area has a lot of clubs and restaurants. And when I mean clubs, I mean mostly KTV lounges catering to the Japanese and Koreans. Friendly's Guesthouse and Malate Pensionne Inn are both located on Adriatico Street, and both are close to each other. It wasn't easy to spot Friendly's Guesthouse because they didn't have a glowing sign outside, but after I did find the building, I got into the elevator and got off on the fourth floor.
The guy and girl manning the reception weren't great, to be honest. But when they showed me to my dorm room, I would say I was a bit disappointed. There were a group of young Americans who were already talking loudly, high on booze, making plans to go out for some more drinking (they were English teachers in S. Korea apparently). The room was a bit messy too. The staff then pointed to my upper bed. Now, this peeved me off a bit, because I had specifically asked for a lower bed at the time of confirming my reservation via e-mail. I told the staff about it, but they said they couldn't give me a lower bed because they were full.
Frustrated, I decided to just shower and then go out in search of another room. The bathroom wasn't very clean either, but I was literally itching to take a proper shower. The luxury of a good hot shower eluded me while in El Nido and I needed to get all that coastal sweat off me. A lot of soap, shampoo and a clean shave later, I felt so much fresher.
I stepped out and went straight to Malate Pensionne Inn, but their dorms were full too. So I walked around and decided to check the other hotels in the area. A tout on the street then approached me, asking me if I wanted a girl. I said "no". Then he asked me "guy?". Definitely "no". Then he asked me if I needed Viagra, Cialis or other drugs. I told him at my age, "no". "Cigarettes?". "No". He finally gave up and asked me what I was looking for and when I told him I was in search of another room, he then went "Ah!" and told me he would show me around.
After visiting a few small hotels, nothing was as cheap as Malate Pensionne or Friendly's. Just about every other 'pension inn' cost nearly a ₱1000 and above, while the rest were all star hotels in the area. Eventually, I slowed my pace of walking and decided to just manage a night in Friendly's and try again tomorrow. Now I know why these two hostels were very popular among backpackers — there is no other choice!
All this while the tout was still beside me. I used the opportunity to ask him about the clientele at most of the KTVs in this area. He told me it wasn't uncommon for Japanese men to spend $300-$400 on average a night(!), and that's just to sing karaoke and enjoy the company of the women sitting beside them. If they want to take the girls out, that will cost them extra. $300 was my weekly budget, so no way was I eligible to enter these nightclubs.
The tout eventually gave up and left me alone after realizing I wasn't going to give him any business for any of his (many) services. The one good thing about being in a touristy and popular area was that there were a few restaurants available that didn't only serve Japanese and Korean cuisines. I had my dinner at a Persian joint and went back to my room.
I had a lot of sleeping to do!
Date: May 2nd, 2011
Woke up around 9am I believe. Lazily got out of my bed and decided to go upstairs for coffee. Also thought you guys would want to know what Friendly's Guesthouse looks like.
When you consider the facilities, and the location, paying ₱375 ($8/€6) a night for a bed in an air-conditioned dorm room is really good value. I went back to my room, where the staff were cleaning the toilets. I ultimately decided to just manage at Friendly's for the next two nights.
I spent some time online and basically took it easy. Spoke to Aimee before finally deciding to step out. Aimee had some work, so we decided to meet tomorrow. I told her I was going to check out Quezon City, which she told me was the former capital and currently the largest city in Manila province. I looked at my map and only noticed Quezon Memorial Circle as a notable attraction worth visiting. So off I went… without my DSLR. For once, I wanted to walk around without carrying my heavy camera bag. Only phone camera today. It felt so liberating!
Comics Alley, a chain selling mostly Japanese 'otaku' merchandise and anime toys, were having a sale at their branch at this mall and I picked up Domo-kun plush toy for ₱250. I soaked up some more air-conditioning before going up to the food court for lunch.
Lazily, I got up and left the mall. I did walk around a bit, then looked at the map and decided I needed to go up Quezon Avenue. I got into a jeepney and got down at the busy Quezon Avenue.
It was really hot today, and even though I had sunglasses on, the heat was getting to me. I stopped to have some ice cream and bought some more water. As I walked up Quezon Avenue, I noticed a man helping people cross the busy Elliptical Road.
The Quezon Memorial Circle is both a national park and a shrine, which features a mausoleum containing the remains of Manuel L. Quezon, the second President of the Philippines. But I somehow was not in the mood to go any further and check it out… don't know why. Maybe it was the heat.
I crossed the busy road, which itself was quite a challenge as nobody slowed down even as pedestrians were on the zebra crossing.
Once across, I kept walking further down Quezon Avenue in the hopes of seeing what life is like in this part of Manila.
In fact there were many large clubs/KTV lounges all along Quezon Avenue, none of which were open at this time though. The poshest one I saw, judging by all the high end vehicles parked there, was the Pegasus Club, which Aimee later me told is where the rich and famous (men) hang out. Also where a few girls working as 'guest relation officers' ended up turning into future actresses and models.
After going down the road a bit, I took a left turn as I wasn't seeing anything besides gentlemen's clubs and fast moving vehicles.
Other than that, all I saw were businesses dealing in automotive parts, a few bakeries and other general stores.
I called Aimee and asked her if I was in the wrong part of town, but she was sleeping, so I didn't want to disturb her and cut the call short. I kept walking until I reached a metro station.
(Plug: Do check out Journey's new album 'Eclipse,' it's brilliant!)
Back at Pedro Gil station, I walked to Robinsons Place mall.
After hanging around the mall for a while, I decided to have an early dinner from here itself and then head back to the room.
Being the curious foodie I am, I decided to give it a try. I ordered their shrimp burger meal (which at ₱150 cost the same as Wendy's) and sat down, since the order was going to take 10 minutes (guess this restaurant isn't what you would call 'fast food').
When the burger eventually came, you could say I was disappointed. I didn't like the yellow sauce they put in the burger (don't know if it was some sort of mayo, but it was a tad sweet). The burger patty was smaller than the one at Wendy's and overall, it just wasn't all that great. The fries were alright though.
Back in the room, I spent the remainder of the night talking to other backpackers who had just checked in to Friendly's and later worked on some of my photographs.
Date: May 3rd, 2011
Today I was going to meet my friend Aimee. She was going to show me around Ortigas and then take me to Greenhills for some shopping.
But after much walking around and checking out a few stores, none of the offerings were as good as the ones I saw in Bangkok. I guess Bangkok's street shopping experience is still the best in South East Asia.
After an hour spent at Greenhills, and not finding anything worth buying at all, Aimee and I took a van taxi back to SM Megamall.
I walked Aimee back home, and we said our goodbyes as this would be the last I'd be seeing her. I was leaving Philippines tomorrow. It started to drizzle very lightly, so I made my way back to the main road to catch a jeepney to Monumento.
Unfortunately, what started out as a drizzle, eventually turned into rain.
I took shelter in front of a Max's Restaurant, but then, the rain got really heavy a few minutes later!
I waited nearly 45 minutes for the rain to subside. I managed to cross the road and caught a bus going to Monumento.
There were cycle taxis offering locals a ride to Monumento LRT station, but when I asked them 'how much,' their rate for me, a non-local, were ludicrous. So I just took a deep breath, hopped across the road — and got wet in the process anyway.
It was past 5pm and I still had some shopping to do. I got the train from Monumento and went to Pasay.
After window shopping in Greenbelt, I walked back to Landmark department store and ended up buying two K-pop CDs before walking all the way back to Ayala LRT station.
Once back at Pedro Gil, I wondered where to have my final meal in Manila. For kicks, Jollibee one last time was a consideration, but instead, I chose another chain owned by them which I had yet to try.
Date: May 4th, 2011 – Last day, lasting memories
I packed my bags yesterday night itself, just so I knew just how much space I had left to fill up with some last minute shopping. I still had a few things to pick up and so once I was ready, I walked to Robinsons Place one last time. The mall only opens at 10am, and I had to wait outside until it did.
Once inside, I quickly went up to the department store to see if they had any good t-shirts like the ones I picked up from SM's department store yesterday. They did, really good ones too – retro gaming themed Mega Man and Mario t-shirts – all for just ₱200-₱250. I ended up buying five t-shirts for my brothers from Robinsons.
After that, I rushed downstairs to the supermarket, picked up some snacks and then stopped when I spotted a bottle of Absinth in the liquor store. Absinth is something I hardly find in most liquor stores, so I picked up a bottle for my friends back in Bangalore.
I rushed back to Friendly's Guesthouse, adjusted my bags and checked out. I took a taxi to the airport – which stopped along the way to fill up fuel – leaving me cooking inside (no A/C in the car!). I still managed to reach NAIA Terminal 1 in time.
~~~~~~ What this Indian has to say about the Philippines 🙂 ~~~~~~
Sigh. This was it. My epic two and half weeks across Philippines was finally coming to an end. In some ways, I was both happy and sad. Happy because this was such an amazing experience, and I saw pretty much every major attraction I planned to see. Hardly anything went wrong too.
Sad because, well, there's still so much more I wanted to see! I still didn't visit Davao – the second largest city after Manila, Boracay – the most popular island in Philippines, Mount Mayon – the most perfectly cone-shaped volcano, and of course the one place I really, really wanted to visit – the island of Batanes. I would love to return to El Nido, or even consider the islands of Coron even further north of Palawan, which people say are incredible.
I wish I could have stayed longer, but unfortunately, Indians are only given a 21 day tourist visa — that too, one that needs to be applied for in advance, something which cost me Rs. 3230 ($60) to get done. None the less, for a first visit to a country, I couldn't be more proud of myself! Every Filipino who asked me where all I went had the same response: "Wow, even I have yet to go to all these places!"
In the end, it's not just the natural beauty that appealed to me about the Philippines. As a Gulf-raised child from the state of Kerala in India, it was very easy for me to connect with many Filipinos I met. Especially when I stayed at Kabayan, where just about everybody was either coming from or going to Saudi Arabia, Qatar, UAE, etc. Bring up the Middle East, and it was a conversation ice breaker. I know what it's like, and seeing Filipinos in the Middle East, I can now see how far they go just to make a living.
As a Keralite, I know my state's greatest export isn't coconuts — it's people. Philippines isn't any different. And that's largely due to a culture (and religion) that encourages it's people to be educated, but then, led by governments who wipe their hands clean when people were left with no choice but to leave the country in search of a better livelihood. It's easy when all the government has to do is sit back and count the
millionsbillions sent home by their own hard-working people abroad. The money from overseas workers is what fueled the local economy for decades. Some would argue it still does.
Things have started to change though. With a booming local economy, largely driven by the outsourcing movement, Filipinos now have an option. Work can be found in the country, it's just that it may not pay as well as a job in the Middle East. The rising incomes of today's Filipinos is what is fueling tourism within the country. I saw more Filipino tourists than foreign tourists at most places I visited. Which is not how it is in Thailand.
'Brand Philippines' isn't well-marketed to the world either. Sure, San Miguel beer is now available in India, but I doubt the majority who drink it even know it's Filipino. Yeah sure, there's Charice and Arnel Pineda, but lets face it — only Filipinos make them appear 'world famous'. What little most people know about Philippines is judged from its OFWs — Overseas Filipino Workers. Not exactly the best way to learn about the country and its people, especially if you go by the stereotype I hear from friends and family.
Fluency in English has given many Indians and Filipinos an edge over our Asian counterparts. There are over 10 million Filipinos working outside the Philippines, most of whom are in the Middle East. Many work as maids and sales people even in neighbouring Singapore and Hong Kong. But is it fair to draw a conclusion based on those Filipino workers? Not really. And just like millions of NRIs (Non-Resident Indians), especially those from Kerala, a large chunk of their income is sent back home to feed their families and hopefully one day, buy/build a home and retire.
Unless you have been on Philippine soil, your opinion about the Philippine people may remain skewed if you simply assumed every OFW is exactly the kind of people you will find back in Philippines. There are Filipino doctors too you know, they are just not as exported in the sheer numbers the nurses are. You have to come to Philippines to know what the modern day Filipino is like, not judge them based on the career choices they are forced to take up abroad.
All said and done, just like Kerala (and for that matter, all of India), Philippines suffers daily from its share of dirty politics. And what a history it has. Philippines was first colonized by the Spanish, turning just about everyone Catholic in the process. Then the Americans came, waged war with the Spaniards and took over the country. Philippine revolutionaries then fought the Americans. Then the Japanese invaded. Americans fought the Japanese (using many Filipino soldiers mind you) and the U.S. remained in control until Philippines finally gained independence in 1946. But like many countries post-independence, the nation's headaches didn't end there.
Post independence saw the struggle of Filipinos living under one corrupt government after another. The worst period being under
GeneralPresident Ferdinand Marcos. Even as a kid growing up in the late 80's, with little interest in world affairs, it wasn't hard to not hear or come across the 'Marcos' name. Especially his infamous wife — just read her profile on Wikipedia and about Yamashita's Gold — the wealth figures mentioned will leave you shell-shocked if you are non-Filipino who knew very little about Philippine politics.
Revolution after revolution, not much has changed in the political landscape. Or for that matter in society at large. The people may have progressed to a point where homosexuals are not victimized as badly as they are in other Asian countries, but stupid laws like the fact divorce is still illegal persist! Just like the majority of Indians, Filipinos hate their politicians with so much vitriol, reading any news article online about a high-ranking public official comes with its share of nasty comments.
Even the nation's biggest celebrity, Manny Pacquiao, has joined political fray. How much of an impact will his political punches have? Who knows.
One thing I did find a bit annoying though were the many locals complaining about Manila. I still don't think it's as bad a city as they claim it to be. I'd like to see the very same people go to Mumbai – where real estate costs more than Manila – then come back and compare. Manila's infrastructure still beats most Indian cities. Probably the very reason why Philippines has now overtaken India as the global call center hub.
Of course, not all infrastructure in Manila is worth bragging about. And there is no greater example of that than NAIA Terminal 1 — the terminal for most international flights. Also considered to be one of the worst airports in the world!
This terminal was built in 1981… and it still looks like that! I didn't take any other photo besides the one above because it only goes downhill from there. Facilities are poor, and even though I didn't face any issues, I have read about Filipinos who experienced corruption at their own airports.
Maybe it's because I'm a tourist or a 'foreigner,' so the airport officials could be too 'shy' to try anything funny with us. But, there is one final slap-in-the-face/kick-in-the-groin every passenger gets for using this outdated terminal upon departure. Every airport I used within Philippines had an airport usage fee: ₱200 at Cebu and just ₱40 at Puerto Princesa, since both were for domestic flights. For NAIA Terminal 1 international passengers? ₱750 ($17/€12).
Now I know a lot of airports charge a user fee, and sometimes it's even included in the ticket cost. Heck, even New Delhi International Airport has started charging passengers Rs. 1300 (₱1100) for international flights – which sucks. But, at least they began collecting this fee after they built, what is now, the 8th largest airport in the world.
Even as a non-Filipino, walking around this terminal after paying ₱750 made me angry. All I kept thinking about after I paid this 'airport development fee' was "how many years have they been collecting this?!" and "what the hell are they doing with this money?!". When I think about my money going to waste or going into a suited up thief's pocket, it makes my blood boil, be it in India or abroad.
As I looked around, I didn't notice many Indians besides myself. There was one Indian couple, who looked Punjabi, but they didn't look like the Punjabis I was used to seeing. They looked more like the Indians who came to this part of the world decades ago and tried best to keep their heritage. The 'lost Indians' so to speak.
Oh, I need to bring this up. In Manila, occasionally a few jeepney drivers on the streets would shout "Bombay!" to me. I assumed it was because it's the only famous Indian city everyone knows, so I used to just smile back. But when I told Aimee about this, she told me that's not why. Get this, Indians don't have a good reputation in the Philippines (among the masses) because of certain "Bombays" in the country. It's the slang term used to refer to several (illegal) money lenders, most of whom are of Indian origin, and have been in the Philippines for decades. Most of their 'customers' are often poor street vendors and stall owners, people who wouldn't get much help from big banks due to the lack any of valid documentation. The "Bombays" approach such people, lend them money, but at very high interest rates. Of course, when things get bad, these "Bombays" show their nefarious side. You could say: "Well, how come they are allowed to operate?". In a country where the police can be paid off, a lot can be 'allowed'. They are basically 'loan sharks'. For more details, read this excellent research paper I dug up when I was curious to find out more about these "Bombays".
I still didn't see many Indians in the two and half weeks I spent in the Philippines. The few I did see were only in Manila and looked like they were here because of the BPO majors in the city — or were visiting from Singapore.
That said, I don't expect many Indians to fly all the way to Philippines for tourism — because it's a hard sell. I can show my friends the beaches of Palawan and they'll say: "Doesn't Thailand have such beaches?". And it's true. When Thailand offers most of what the Philippines also offers (nightlife included), chances are they rather take a 3-4 hour flight to Thailand than the 7-8 hours it takes to reach the Philippines. I can argue about how beautiful the beaches, the stunning rice terrace farms, and how less crowded Philippines' tourist spots are in comparison, but it wouldn't matter to the majority.
[Fun trivia: Some similarities between India and Philippines I observed — the mobile numbers are 10 digits long and all begin with 9; the men use the term "boss" a lot :)]
A lot of international travellers — families, the new markets, and in the case of most Indian tourists — travel on package tours, because it's convenient (plus they're too lazy to do all the research themselves — that's my reasoning). Philippines is a tough country sell as a package tour, because you simply cannot do it in less than a week. Being a nation of over 7,000 islands, it's not landlocked country like much of Thailand or Malaysia's touristy half (KL, Penang and Langkawi). If you are in Manila and want to see the amazing Chocolate Hills, you have no choice but to fly. Palawan? Flight again. If not flights, then by ferry. In short, accessibility is an issue. Well, easy access that is. Package tourists prefer convenience, backpackers enjoy the challenge, tiring as it may be.
Would I go back for a second visit? If I had the chance (and the money), I would go back in an instant! Would I work there? Hmm, only if the work itself was interesting and the pay package makes it worthwhile. Would I live in Philippines? That's… a bit tough for me to answer. Cebu maybe a preferred city for many retirees, but the only city I would only consider living in is still Manila. It's a huge city, yes, but it's the only city that would keep me entertained. K-pop stars drop in often and it's global enough in its options. I could easily afford to buy an apartment in Manila with my current savings, something I can't even do back in Bangalore. But cost of living aside, typhoon season scares me a bit. Typhoons hammer much of Philippines every year, and Manila is always hit. Everytime I see the footage, I can't fathom what the poor slum dwellers must go through… every year!
Despite all the bad, one lasting impression I will always hold in positive view is the general attitude of the Filipino people. I really like them, they are very friendly and I love their mannerisms (the good ones). Everytime I was at store, the sales staff would approach me with a "♫ Hello sirrrrrrrrrrr ♪" — and it still resonates in my head 🙂 Again, this is how I was generally treated. How Filipinos behave with each other, I'll only know if I stay there much longer.
The only notion about Philippines that remained unanswered for me was… I still don't know what Philippine culture is! I didn't see much that seemed ethnically Filipino, or a heritage that is native to this country. Maybe it's because of the 300 years of Spanish rule, succeeded by the years of 'Americana' that followed. Philippines has, in some way, lost its native identity — probably the only South East Asian country to do so. The last few generations of Filipinos absorbed a culture and influence America left behind, and it's now very much become their own — like their love for basketball, the preferred genres of music, fast food, and even the English they follow.
I began working on this Philippines series in June, after I got laid off from my company. Six months of sitting and writing 16 posts, nearly 2,068 photos used (out of over 5,000 clicked)… it was a lot of work, but it's with immense satisfaction I conclude what has been the most satisfying international trip of my life so far! The response from my friends back in Bangalore when I showed them my photos of all the wonderful sights Philippines has to offer was nothing short of amazement. I guess I've played my small role in promoting the country.
What else can I say… hanggang sa muli Philippines! 🙂
Previous posts in this series:
Philippines 2011: Day 14 – El Nido island hopping tour A and sunset at Las Cabanas beach, Palawan
Philippines 2011: Day 13 – Puerto Princesa to El Nido by bus
Philippines 2011: Day 12 – Puerto Princesa Underground River tour, Palawan
Philippines 2011: Day 11 – Arriving in Puerto Princesa, Palawan
Philippines 2011: Day 10 – Bohol tour: Chocolate Hills, Loboc river cruise, Tarsiers, churches
Philippines 2011: Day 9 – Cebu: Fort San Pedro, Basilica of Santo Niño, Taoist Temple
Philippines 2011: Day 8 – Manila tour: Rizal Park, Intramuros, Manila Cathedral, China Town
Philippines 2011: Day 7 – Leaving Angeles City for Manila, Mall of Asia
Philippines 2011: Day 6 – Good Friday in San Fernando, San Pedro Cutud Lenten Rites
Philippines 2011: Leaving Sagada for Baguio, and arriving in Angeles city (Days 4 & 5)
Philippines 2011: Day 3 – Sagada's Lumiang burial cave, Sumaguing cave, Hanging Coffins of Echo valley
Philippines 2011: Day 3 – Banaue town; heading to Sagada via Bontoc
Philippines 2011: Day 2 – Banaue rice terraces; trekking to Batad village
Philippines 2011: Day 1 — Manila American Cemetery and Memorial, Fort Bonifacio
Philippines 2011: Flying over South China Sea for the first time


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Spiders! Eeeeeck! There's Less to Fear than You Think
By Alan Caruba
"If there is one genus—arachnids—of insect pests that people fear, it is spiders," says Leonard Douglen, Executive Director of the New Jersey Pest Management Association. "With the exception of the Brown Recluse spider and the Black Widow spider, most do not pose a biting problem."
A quick way to know whether you are dealing with a spider or some other insect is to know something about them. All spiders have two body segments and eight legs. If your insect doesn't have two body segments and eight legs, you don't have a spider.
Spiders also have two short appendages, one on each side of their face, that are called "pedipalps" or simply "palps." They are basically modified legs that aid them in food manipulation, mating, and sensing their environment. They do not count as legs, but you will probably notice them while counting the real legs, if you are inclined to do so. Spiders will occasionally lose legs in battle, during mating, or during molting.
"Unlike other insects famed for biting humans such as yellow jackets, mosquitoes, and bed bugs, spiders generally do not bite humans," says Douglen. "Spiders have no interest in sucking our blood or deterring us from removing their nests. They only bite in defense and that only rarely occurs."
"In fact, most spiders couldn't bite people even if they wanted to," says Douglen. Of approximately 3,000 different spiders in the U.S., only a small number have fangs that are long enough and strong enough to break skin."
There are, however, four spiders that pose a threat of biting. They are Recluse spiders, Black Widow spiders, Hobo spiders, and the Yellow Sac spider.
In New Jersey there are a variety of spiders common to the state. They include the Daddy Long Legs, the Black and Yellow Garden Spiders, the American House spider, the Brown Recluse and the Black Widow spiders. People most often encounter spiders if they have gardens and, with the exception of the Black Widow they do not bite. In a home or an apartment, anyplace dark is a likely habitat for the latter two spiders.
"Venom from the Brown Recluse will cause local tissue damage," said Douglen, "and symptoms of a bite can include burning, pain, itching, and redness at the site which can develop within hours or days of being bitten. Bites usually display a deep blue or purple area, surrounded by a whitish ring and a larger red outer ring. A bite can cause headaches, body aches, a rash, fever and nausea or vomiting."
Treatment should include washing the area well with soap and water, applying a cold or ice pack wrapped in a cloth, and especially for children, the application of an antibiotic lotion or cream.
The symptoms of a bite from a Black Widow spider include immediate pain, burning, swelling and redness at the site. Usually the double fang marks are visible. After being bitten, the victim can experience cramping pain and muscle rigidity in the stomach, chest, shoulders and back, accompanied by headache, dizziness, sweating, salivation, and tearing of the eyes. "The Black Widow bite is a neurotoxin," says Douglen. "People can experience weakness, tremors and even paralysis, especially in the legs." Treatment is comparable to that of the Brown Recluse bite "and the victim is advised to seek immediate emergency care for further treatment, as one may require muscle relaxants, pain relievers, and other medications."
"Studies have shown that about eighty percent of spider bite diagnoses are wrong," says Douglen. "It is common to misdiagnose insect bites because at least thirty different medical conditions can cause skin lesions."
"In New Jersey, the most common biting insect these days are Bed Bugs," says Douglen. "A person with multiple bites has not been bitten by a spider because they only bite once."
"Homeowners should get regular inspections to determine whether there are any one of a variety of insect pests present," says Douglen, "and this is particularly important with regard to termite and Carpenter Ant infestations."


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The SIR II™ survey yields an unparalleled amount of data that allows greater flexibility in evaluating teaching effectiveness and course outcomes.
Survey reports for e-SIR and SIR II Online are available online immediately after each course survey has been closed. Reports for paper-and-pencil administrations are mailed 15 business days after ETS receives the completed surveys for processing.
Data is provided on eight dimensions of college instruction:
- Course organization and planning
- Faculty communication
- Faculty-student interaction
- Assignments, exams and grading
- Instructional methods and materials
- Course outcomes
- Student effort and involvement
- Course difficulty, workload and pace
In addition to an overall score, SIR II and e-SIR survey data includes the following:
- Means for individual survey items and scale scores (i.e., the numerical average for all respondents)
- Percentage of students who selected each item response choice
- Scale mean for the relevant comparison group of colleges. Comparison groups include:
- two-year colleges
- four-year colleges (including master's degree programs)
- doctoral-granting universities
ETS also provides comparative data so that you can compare your institution's scores to those of your peers nationwide. These data, as well as a variety of SIR II research reports, can help identify areas of strength and opportunities for curriculum improvement.
SIR II Data Reliability
For distance-learning courses, class sizes are generally smaller and more homogeneous than traditional courses. Reliability estimates for the SIR II survey for distance learning courses (the e-SIR version) will improve if a very high proportion (75 percent or more) of the students respond.
The reliability of SIR II and e-SIR survey data depends on the number of participating students. Reliability is a measure of the degree of consistency among student respondents. Higher numbers of respondents help reduce the effects of a few divergent responses and increase reliability.
Institutions should use extra caution when interpreting the results when fewer than 10 students or less than 60 percent of the class respond. In addition, item means are not reported if 50 percent or more of the students either omit an item or mark it not applicable. Class reports will not be produced when there are less than five respondents to the survey.
How Course Characteristics Affect Course Ratings
Some course characteristics affect ratings and should be considered when interpreting the data:
- Small classes (i.e., fewer than 15 students) often receive more favorable ratings than larger classes, probably because they tend to provide a more effective learning environment (see comparative data).
- Basic courses required by the college tend to receive somewhat lower ratings than courses within a student's major, minor or elective courses.
- Ratings may differ across the various subject fields of a course, with humanities courses generally receiving higher ratings and natural science/mathematics courses receiving lower ratings. The comparative data booklets can be used to reference score information for more than 70 different subject fields.
- Gender influences (either instructor or student gender) on SIR II survey ratings by students are typically fairly small. Read SIR II research on how gender bias may affect survey results.
- Expectations of course grades do not affect student ratings, contrary to what many instructors believe.
- Other variables that show minimal differences in the comparative data include ratings according to faculty status (part-time vs. full-time) and course type (lecture vs. lecture-discussion).
For more information about rating influencers, visit the Research section of this website.
For information about using SIR II survey data in instructor and program evaluation, view Score Usage.


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Lighten Up This Halloween
About two weeks ago, a 5-year-old boy named Liam ran out of his house around dusk to show off his Halloween costume to all the neighborhood kids.
"Look at me," Liam yelled with pride.
But it wasn't as easy as it sounded. You see, Liam was dressed as the Grim Reaper, a classic Halloween costume, and this kid knew what he was doing. An ominous black robe covered his entire body. His head was surrounded by a dark hood and he was even wearing spooky face paint, which hid everything but his wire-rimmed glasses and the whites of his eyes.
He ran wildly up and down the sidewalk, darting across the street until he showed every kid on the block. His mind was solely in the moment and it was almost impossible to look at this adorable five-year-old and see anything but the joy and fun that comes with Halloween every year.
The only problem was it was almost impossible to see Liam as well.
It's a problem that creeps up on us every Halloween. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, twice as many children are hit and killed walking on Halloween than any other day of the year.
It's also a problem that's easy to fix, which is why Safe Kids and FedEx are teaming up this Halloween. This year, we want every child to be wearing something reflective or bright so they will be seen by drivers on Halloween. There are lots of ways to make it happen. Kids can carry a flashlight or glow stick, wear light-colored costumes or attach reflective wristbands or tape to their outfit.
When Liam's mom recognized that, while this costume was cute, it could also be unsafe, she calmly called him over and asked, "How cool would it be if the Grim Reaper always had a glow stick hanging around each wrist?"
There's not a five-year-old around who doesn't love glow sticks so Liam immediately agreed. He then ran up and down the street so he could tell all the neighborhood kids.
Here are a few more tips to help keep our little monsters safe this Halloween.
Talk to your kids about how to walk safely. Remind children to watch out for cars and other drivers and cross streets safely by looking left, right, and left again. Making eye contact with drivers before crossing the street is also important as drivers can sometimes be distracted. I know Liam's mom is working with him on this one as we speak.
Use reflectors with costumes. Creativity with costumes is one of the best parts of Halloween so try to find creative ways to work in some reflective materials or reflective tape to make it easier for drivers to spot kids at night.
Drive extra carefully. With more children out and about on Halloween night than any other night, drivers should take extra care when on the road. Children are often excited on Halloween and may dart between cars. Putting headlights on early and slowing down in residential neighborhoods is a little thing that can make a big difference.
By following these simple steps, we can ensure that Halloween is scary for all the right reasons. And if you need a little more inspiration, please check out our latest video or visit Safekids.org for more tips.
Happy Halloween.
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Brickman's third assist of the contest, a dish to junior Troy Joseph cutting to the hoop for a layup at the 13:39 mark of the second half, gave him 805 for his career to surpass Marist's Drafton Davis, who had held the record since 1988.
Six players scored in double figures for the Blackbirds, including a team-high 22 points from freshman Iverson Fleming. Playing in his home state of New Jersey, Fleming nearly quadrupled his season total of points in one game with an 8-for-11 performance from the field.
In addition, junior Gilbert Parga scored 14 points, sophomore E.J. Reed chipped in with 12, while juniors Landon Atterberry and Gerrell Martin each had 10 for LIU, who shot 58.2 percent from the field.
With many of his passing lanes bottled up for much of the contest, Brickman went to work from long range and matched a career high with five three-pointers. Early in the second half, NJIT had cut its once-10 point deficit to seven when Brickman drained a three to re-up the cushion to double digits.
Right after his record-breaking assist, Brickman nailed another bomb to extend LIU's lead to 16 with 13:16 remaining. The lead ballooned to 17 following a fast-break layup from Martin, fittingly off a pass from Brickman.
But the home team went on a 14-4 run over the next 4:28 to cut its deficit to seven at 69-62 with 4:23 on the clock. A Martin three-ball bumped the LIU lead back to 10, where it remained a minute later before a three-pointer from Damon Lynn and a layup from Winfield Willis brought the Highlanders to within five at 74-69.
After a missed dunk by Atterberry, Fleming found himself open in the right corner and knocked down a critical three-pointer to start a personal 7-2 run that bumped the advantage back to 81-71 with less than two minutes to go. A technical foul was issued to Atterberry following a Fleming layup. Willis hit both of the ensuing free throws, then hit a three-pointer to put the score at 81-76.
From there, both teams had numerous transition opportunities down the stretch in what was a wild finish. NJIT connected on two straight three-pointers to pull within three at 87-84 with 49 ticks on the clock, and used three free throws from Willis to get the score to 93-91 with 12 seconds left.
Reed stepped to the free-throw line and hit one of his two attempts, and a layup from Terrence Smith made the margin just one with five seconds remaining. But Fleming calmly stepped to the line with 1.7 left and hit both free throws, and a heave at the buzzer was no good as LIU held on for the three-point victory.
Willis finished with a game-high 30 points on 10-for-17 from the field, while NJIT's leading scorer Damon Lynn, who entered the contest averaging nearly 19 points per game, was held to just nine.
LIU Brooklyn returned home to face Lamar at the Steinberg Wellness Center on Wednesday, Dec. 18.


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Since the time it has been released, Vine has served as a beneficial utility for the users. But, the app requires internet connectivity to work with and users are provided with no option when the user wants to download Vine videos for offline use. Currently users are allowed to share these particularized videos within the individual's own account or users have the facility to post these on to Twitter.
During the time that users want Vine videos offline, a jailbreak tweak called VineDownloader presents a beneficial utility for the users. As such no complex Settings or configuration will be required and the normal features of Vine keep working efficiently. Continue reading


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Raytheon Co. has been awarded a $58.3 M contract for Patriot Guidance Enhanced Missile-Tactical, or GEM-T, missiles.
The US Army Aviation and Missile Command (AMCOM), Redstone Arsenal, AL, issued the contract to upgrade 131 Patriot Advanced Capability-2 missiles to the GEM-T configuration. This is a follow-on contract as part of AMCOM's Patriot missile continuous technology refreshment program initiated in 2000.
"These continuing upgrades speak to the critical role Patriot plays in our 12 partner nations' air and missile defense capabilities," said Sanjay Kapoor, Vice President for Patriot Programs at Raytheon Integrated Defense Systems (IDS). "This cost-effective alternative makes it possible for them to increase their air and missile defense capabilities, using existing Patriot systems."
The Patriot GEM-T missile upgrades include the replacement of select components that increase reliability and extend the service life of the missile. GEM-T upgrades are ongoing under existing contracts with the U.S. and other Patriot partner nations and are performed at Raytheon's Integrated Air Defense Center in Andover, Mass.


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Denon AH-D600 Music Maniac headphones review
Versatility meets comfort
Heads up!Welcome to this article from the Crutchfield archives. Have fun reading it, but be aware that the information may be outdated and links may be broken.
Meet the new Denon headphones
Denon isn't necessarily the first name you think of when someone mentions headphones. But with their new line of Music Maniac™ headphones for serious listeners, Denon is trying to change that perception by building on their previous success with closed-back designs. I was excited to try the new Denon AH-D600 to see how they measured up, particularly as I own a pair of their older AH-D2000s.
A Unique approach to audiophile headphones
Denon has continued with their production of closed-back headphones, eschewing the open design favored by many audiophiles. For most listeners, myself included, closed-back headphones are a better option as we typically listen in areas with a lot of background noise. I'm usually listening to music while my wife is watching TV, so I need headphones that are going to keep my music in while keeping TV noise out.
With this in mind, the AH-D600s seem more about versatility than strictly audiophile sound. After all, how many high-end headphones come with a 3-foot miniplug cable with an iPhone® remote and microphone? But don't worry--Denon also includes a high-quality oxygen-free copper cable terminating in a gold-plated ¼-inch plug. And while it's unlikely I'll ever make a call while wearing any over-the-ear headphones, the iPod® remote function and easy-to-manage cable length would make these headphones a legitimate travel companion for me.
The headphones feature an in-line remote for an iPhone, iPod, or iPad
The most comfortable headphones ever?
The most striking feature of the AH-D600 is their level of comfort. I doubt I've ever worn a more comfortable pair of headphones in any category. The memory foam ear pads are super-soft and the headband is nicely padded across the top. The earcups feel secure on my ears without the headband clamping down too hard.
Often it's the headphones that clamp down hard on your skull that keep the most external noise out. But these 'phones provide excellent noise isolation, far better than my AH-D2000s. That is the beauty of the closed-back design, as many of us can't always find a quiet setting in which to enjoy our music.
How do they sound?
Sure, these are versatile headphones, but what about sound quality? My first reaction when listening was that the AH-D600s are a significant step up from my AH-D2000s. The sound was more forward, the bass deeper and more resonant and the mids a bit beefier. I listened through an iPod touch® and iPod classic®, adding a portable headphone amp at times. These headphones were very easily driven by my iPod, yet another example of the AH-D600's versatility.
The most noticeable aspect of the AH-D600's sound signature is the prominence of the bass. It's punchy and powerful, though a bit boomy. It does color the overall presentation at times, but not necessarily in a bad way. It makes these headphones more versatile (are you sensing a pattern here?) as I found few instances in which I felt the bass was out of balance with the overall tonality. Often I'm willing to sacrifice a little bass control for more low-end impact.
At times the high frequencies can sound thin or even veiled, particularly with cymbals, which lose some of their shimmer. This was noticeable on "Footprints" by Miles Davis (nobody worked the cymbals like Tony Williams) and on the drum-pounding intro of "Wilma's Rainbow" by Helmet. I would have liked more high-end detail from these songs.
Midrange excellence
My gripes about the high end aside, I found the AH-D600s very smooth and musical. The mids are much more prominent than in my AH-D2000s. They gave Harry Belafonte's vocal on "Darlin' Cora" from the 1959 Live at Carnegie Hall recording more presence than I'm used to hearing from my old Denons. The AH-D600s were also well-suited for the warm tone of John Coltrane's tenor sax on "Blue Trane." Trane sounds positively laid back on my D2000s by comparison to the bold tone jumping out of the D600's drivers.
I found the soundstage to be large, though not as wide-open as is possible with top-class open-backed headphones. Nevertheless, I was impressed by the AH-D600's performance on Bob Marley's "Get Up, Stand Up/No More Trouble/War" from Live at the Roxy. Every instrument stood out clearly, the bass guitar of particular note. And while I've heard headphones with better separation, few could match the groove the AH-D600s produced on this track. It was difficult to resist the urge to both get up and stand up while sitting at my cubicle. Similarly, "The Sands of Iwo Jima" by the Drive-By Truckers was beautifully balanced, the natural-sounding vocals standing out among the crisply articulated guitars
The Denon Audio app, featuring graphic EQ
The Denon Audio app
Did I mention how versatile these headphones are? Well, continuing with that theme, the AH-D600s come with a free app for iOS and Android™ devices. The Denon Audio app is essentially customizable graphic EQ for your portable device. I opened the app, all my music was there, including playlists, without a lengthy import process. When I played a song, I was immediately treated to a cool graphical representation of my music. You can slide your finger across one of 6 points on the waveform to manually adjust the EQ. It's a fun feature to play with and could prove useful for adjusting bass and treble levels with different recordings.
The bottom line
Denon has carved out a nice niche with its closed-back high-end headphones. If you want something more versatile than the standard headphones geared to audiophiles, these are a great alternative. Despite their drawbacks, I found these to be fun headphones that produced a mostly pleasing balance of strong bass, prominent mids and warm, if a bit thin, highs.
If you are an audiophile looking for uncompromised neutral sound quality, you may want to look elsewhere. But if you're looking for a musical headphone that makes up in versatility what it lacks in consistency, the Denon AH-D600 Music Maniac headphones are a strong contender.


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The Production Basics 1346 Quad Station ESD Workbench is a base system which includes all the necessary components and hardware to construct a four-station configuration with ESD-laminate worksurfaces.
Benefits & Features of the Production Basic 1346 Quad Station Workbench:
Included with the Production Basic 1346 Quad Station Workbench:
Please Note: Due to the size and weight of this item it may be subject to additional freight charges. The use of an LTL account is highly recommended otherwise a company representative will reach out to you.