A group of 10 Chinese nationals were injured yesterday morning(23rd june) when the minibus they were in slammed into the back of a truck. One worker was knocked out cold by the impact but regained conciousness later. A second broke his nose. The 10 workers were taken to the Singapore General Hospital; 8 were treated for minor injuries. The crashed occured on the East Coast Parkway at 8.45am. After the minibus had hit the truck, a taxi crashed into it . This carsh renewed calls for seat belts to be fitted in all minibuses. The appeals began in April, when schoolboy Russell Koh, eight was killed after being flung out of a minibus which had collided with two cars. The Transport Ministry acted last month, ordering that new school vans must come with seat belts.
Personal View : As usual safety comes first before everything. Therefore, seat belts are needed in every vehicle that we sit . But yet come to think of it, even with seat belts attached to vehicles like taxi; cars etc .. People still do not put on their seat belts when they are on ride as they think it is unnesscessary for them to do it. They feel they will not be so unlucky to meet with an accident during this short ride to their destination .But I feel that it is important for everyone to put safety before their "laziness" and "convinence" as it may lead to a drastic situation that they will never be able to foresee. It is better to be safe than sorry. The government should also make it a must to put on the seat belts. With seat belts on, it can also minimise the injuries and impact on the victims' who get into an accident.
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
Magalence Teng : Pint-sized stickkey is one 'smart' card
From next year onwards, passengers could find themselves using a smart card, in a size of two postage stamps to pay for their own train and bus fares. The pint-sized card, known as stickkey, is schelduled to undergo a trial run next year. Fast Innovations Asia, working with the Land Transport Authority on this project. In fact, if this trial is successful, the stickkey could be available in MRT stations soon after. This card is not merely for paying bus fares but it is rather something that is truly mobile being used for several purposes. Despite its small size, the stickkey packs a punch, several functions are packed in the tiny card, enabling people to buy groceries and even unlock doors. It can be attached to cellphones and other handy surfaces. However, this will expire after one and a half year , opposite to five years for the ez-link card. In addition, the Singapore Fashion Festival this year also handed out stickkeys to VIPs for exculsive accers to their shows during the 10-day event.
My Comments: With this pint-sized card , one will lead a more expedient lifestyle after the launch of it, probably next year. This could actually end the days of people digging through their wallets for CashCard. Do you prefer Credit Cards or Stickkey ? I believe that Singaporeans will " fall in love " with its several functions as a stickkey. It is cumbersome for one to bring their keys along to work, leisure, etc. Also, one needs not carry a wallet with lots of cash and some important documents in it for the sake of buying groceries or during shopping. Stickkey will settle the bills for anyone at anytime, anywhere.
My Comments: With this pint-sized card , one will lead a more expedient lifestyle after the launch of it, probably next year. This could actually end the days of people digging through their wallets for CashCard. Do you prefer Credit Cards or Stickkey ? I believe that Singaporeans will " fall in love " with its several functions as a stickkey. It is cumbersome for one to bring their keys along to work, leisure, etc. Also, one needs not carry a wallet with lots of cash and some important documents in it for the sake of buying groceries or during shopping. Stickkey will settle the bills for anyone at anytime, anywhere.
Amanda Soh - Dad flies off using son's passport
In his hurry to catch a flight at Changi Airport's Budget Terminal yesterday morning, retiree Ang Heng Soon, 61, grabbed the wrong passport and left home. He took his 39-year-old son's passport. They had left their passports on the dining table, because the son was also flying from Changi Airport. The father's mistake, and how he cleared all security checks at the airport and flew to Vietnam, led to a long day for both. Even with the wrong passport, Mr Ang first checked in at the Tiger Airways counter for his flight to Ho Chi Minh City, where he was headed for a six-day holiday. He next got past the security check by Certis Cisco officers at the entrance to the restricted passenger area. Then he ran into problems, failing repeatedly to scan his fingerprint at the immigration Automated Clearance System. Noticing his difficulty, an Immigration and Checkpoints Authority officer directed him to a lane for manual clearance. There, an officer cleared him to leave Singapore, and he boarded his plane. Mr Ang told The Straits Times he realised his mistake only during the flight. As soon as he arrived at the Ho Chi Minh City airport at 8.15am, he owned up to immigration authorities there and they put him on the same plane back to Singapore. Around that time at Changi Airport's Terminal 1, his son Vincent, an electronics company sales and marketing executive, also discovered the mix-up. He was waiting to check in for his flight to Hong Kong when he realised that he had his father's passport. He cancelled his flight and went to Tiger Airways' office in the Budget Terminal, where he learnt that his father was heading back. Father and son were reunited at close to noon. Both made fresh arrangements and flew off to their respective destinations later in the day, correct passports in hand. By then, it was too late for Mr Vincent Ang to make it to his business meeting in Hong Kong.
Personal View :
Having this security lapse in Singapore will give a very negative impact on Singapore's security system. If this man happen to be a terrorist, he could just plant a bomb in the airport itself. The immigration officer who looked at his passport and did the 'face-to-face verification' let him through because he bore a resemblance to the photo in the passport. The officer should not have only relied only on this but should have checked his boarding pass with his passport.
Personal View :
Having this security lapse in Singapore will give a very negative impact on Singapore's security system. If this man happen to be a terrorist, he could just plant a bomb in the airport itself. The immigration officer who looked at his passport and did the 'face-to-face verification' let him through because he bore a resemblance to the photo in the passport. The officer should not have only relied only on this but should have checked his boarding pass with his passport.
WenXian-Polluted water kills 4,000 a day
Polluted drinking water will kills around 1.6 million people this year unless governments around the world make a concerted effort to clean up their supplies, warned the World Health Organisation (WHO). Over 4,000 people die each day from water borne diseases, said Mr James Bertram, co-ordinator of the WHO's Water, Sanitation and Health Programmes. He spoke to reporters ahead of the Singapore International Water Week, which kicks off officially on 24 June.
Personal Response:
Polluted drinking water are killing 4,000 people per day from water- borne diseases. It is a tragedy as people from less developed countries have to suffer because they do not have proper sanitation and proper water pipes for to have clean water for consumption. Therefore it is a reminder from the World Health Organisations (WHO) to inform the people to have better hygiene practices as water is precious and essential in life.
Personal Response:
Polluted drinking water are killing 4,000 people per day from water- borne diseases. It is a tragedy as people from less developed countries have to suffer because they do not have proper sanitation and proper water pipes for to have clean water for consumption. Therefore it is a reminder from the World Health Organisations (WHO) to inform the people to have better hygiene practices as water is precious and essential in life.
Chan Jia Li -Gamblers spent estimated $4.2b on 4-D
The gigantic taxes received on 4-D mirror the results of a recent government study which showed it was Singapore's most popular game and it is also seen as leisure activity.Tax experts from KPMG Tax Services and Deloitte Singapore estimated that total wagers on 4-D were in the neighbourhood of $4.2 billion in the taxman's last financial year.The small bets for 4-D lotteries make them a popular option for all ages and income groups thus it has also become easier for people to part with their money.Not to forget,there are now 309 Singapore pools outlets and the betting operator also takes wagers over the phone and gambler's lure of hitting the jackpot also make it hard for them to stop gambling.
Response:
Personally,i really do not applause for the idea on gamblings as it is a total waste of time,effort and money.Most people are spending their time betting on the same numbers hopping to hit the first biggest jackpot on 4-D.Meanwhile,they do not realise that the money that they have spent trying to win,if added up together, is already half of what they might gained from the jackpot which they have a 50% chance of winning.Therefore,i advice gamblers to make a better option and work down-to-earthly instead of putting their money on some bets which they might not even win for an entire lifetime.Hopefully,the amount of money spent on gambling can be reduced respectively on the coming years as it is really not worthwhile.
Response:
Personally,i really do not applause for the idea on gamblings as it is a total waste of time,effort and money.Most people are spending their time betting on the same numbers hopping to hit the first biggest jackpot on 4-D.Meanwhile,they do not realise that the money that they have spent trying to win,if added up together, is already half of what they might gained from the jackpot which they have a 50% chance of winning.Therefore,i advice gamblers to make a better option and work down-to-earthly instead of putting their money on some bets which they might not even win for an entire lifetime.Hopefully,the amount of money spent on gambling can be reduced respectively on the coming years as it is really not worthwhile.
Vivien Ng - Govt doesn't make money from ERP
Summary:
It is said that cash card reader of any car's owner could beeps several times a day due to the increased of Electronic Road Pricing (ERP) gantries along busy roads. People drive pass these roads just to get to work. The main reason that ERP exists is to control road congestion and not to enrich government coffers. Of cause is not to raise the cost of living in singaporeans. The government was raising the ERP rates by increasing the rate by $2 and also adding five new gantries. However the governtment did not make any money from the ERP .ERP will collect approximately a n amount of $70 million but instead, they will lose $110 million due to the reduction in the road tax.
Comments:
Before reading this article, i totally disagree with the government in increasing the ERP rates. Firstly, nowadays, the amount of petrol oil has dropped rapidly hence the price increases largely.It is already a burden for all drivers. They have to work so hard to support their families yet they have to afford the cost of the bills and petrol oil for their cars. After reading the article, i realise that the increased of new ERP gantries is to control the road conjestion so that there will not be heavy jams everywhere. In my oppinion, i personally thinks that the government should explain in public so that people will know the reason why government has choose to increase the ERP rates.Overall , people will understand and cause lesser dispute in the country.
It is said that cash card reader of any car's owner could beeps several times a day due to the increased of Electronic Road Pricing (ERP) gantries along busy roads. People drive pass these roads just to get to work. The main reason that ERP exists is to control road congestion and not to enrich government coffers. Of cause is not to raise the cost of living in singaporeans. The government was raising the ERP rates by increasing the rate by $2 and also adding five new gantries. However the governtment did not make any money from the ERP .ERP will collect approximately a n amount of $70 million but instead, they will lose $110 million due to the reduction in the road tax.
Comments:
Before reading this article, i totally disagree with the government in increasing the ERP rates. Firstly, nowadays, the amount of petrol oil has dropped rapidly hence the price increases largely.It is already a burden for all drivers. They have to work so hard to support their families yet they have to afford the cost of the bills and petrol oil for their cars. After reading the article, i realise that the increased of new ERP gantries is to control the road conjestion so that there will not be heavy jams everywhere. In my oppinion, i personally thinks that the government should explain in public so that people will know the reason why government has choose to increase the ERP rates.Overall , people will understand and cause lesser dispute in the country.
Magalence Teng : Quake survivors now face threat of floods
Gushing waters in southern China's have swollen Pearl River delta, threatening millions of people. Authorities fastened to finish the evacuation of 110,000 people in quake-hit areas. Recently, the deluge of water that roared by was the biggest in 50 years , emergency measures had been prompted to protect the people in those areas. Death tolls have been increased in this disaster. Since the rainy season began last month , large swarthes of Southern China have been flooded, while the north-region of China is experiencing an unusual heatwave. Harbin, known as the Ice City , has reported an abnormally high temperature of 37.1 degrees celsius. The evacuation up to 110,000 quake refugees from dangerous mountainous areasthreatened by rain in-duced landslides in Aba perfectures was slated to finish yesterday. Many people had evacuated in regions hardest hit by the rain, with large tracts of farmland under water. Officials warned that the north could fall victim to the weather, and the government has urged the strengthening of dukes and reservoirs along the Yellow River. In fact, thousands of transport trucks have been stranded in Guangdong , cutting off food supplies to urban centre and fuelling price rises.
My Comments: From my perspective, I sympathized those who have experience this earthquake. This diasater in SiChuan had hit the lives of more than thousands of victims and their families overnight. One may feel fortunate for themselves after witnesssing families crying bitterly for their loved ones. In addition, I admire those survivors , being trapped in the rubble during the earthquake , for their perseverence attitude. Especially those who are able to tolerate the pain as they amputate their own arms or legs in order to escape from the ordeal.
My Comments: From my perspective, I sympathized those who have experience this earthquake. This diasater in SiChuan had hit the lives of more than thousands of victims and their families overnight. One may feel fortunate for themselves after witnesssing families crying bitterly for their loved ones. In addition, I admire those survivors , being trapped in the rubble during the earthquake , for their perseverence attitude. Especially those who are able to tolerate the pain as they amputate their own arms or legs in order to escape from the ordeal.
Jaclyn-Devoting his body to Beijing Olympics
Mr Sun Ding Guo wanted to test himself through hardship and diligence and challenge himself by doing things like rewarding himself a 36th Olympic-themed tattoo after completing a 10 month journey across China pedalling his rickshaw for the Beijing Games.
He also gave up his job, his dreams and the chance the get a girlfriend as he single-mindedly promoted the Olympic spirit. He is now a walking billboard depicting symbols of different sports. Not only that, he went to China's Zhejiang province to just to get signatures of people who support the Games.
Personal views:
Mr Sun Ding Guo is really a noble person to be able to sacrifice himself and his love life just to promote the Olympics spirit.All chinese should be proud of him as he did all these just because of his love and devotion to his country.His perserverance paid off and he is now a walking billboard depicting symbols of different sports.But isn't him giving up his job to promote the Olympics spirit foolish?How is he going to survive without any income as he still needs to eat like any other human beings.Not that i am trying to demoralise his courageous act,but what i am trying to convey is that it is unnecessary for hm to give up his job but instead he can promote the Olympics spirit and work at the same time.
He also gave up his job, his dreams and the chance the get a girlfriend as he single-mindedly promoted the Olympic spirit. He is now a walking billboard depicting symbols of different sports. Not only that, he went to China's Zhejiang province to just to get signatures of people who support the Games.
Personal views:
Mr Sun Ding Guo is really a noble person to be able to sacrifice himself and his love life just to promote the Olympics spirit.All chinese should be proud of him as he did all these just because of his love and devotion to his country.His perserverance paid off and he is now a walking billboard depicting symbols of different sports.But isn't him giving up his job to promote the Olympics spirit foolish?How is he going to survive without any income as he still needs to eat like any other human beings.Not that i am trying to demoralise his courageous act,but what i am trying to convey is that it is unnecessary for hm to give up his job but instead he can promote the Olympics spirit and work at the same time.
Amanda Soh - Singapore's investments in water research cut cost of reclaimed water
Over the last decade, the cost of a cubic metre of reclaimed used water has gone down from 80 US cents to 20 US cents, and desalinated water from 1.50 US dollars to 50 US cents. Such dramatic reductions in the cost of water are the results of Singapore's investments in research on water technology, said the chairman of the National Research Foundation Tony Tan. Used water is recycled and seawater desalinated using advanced membrane technology. Singapore is also progressively building a desalination plant using seawater reverse osmosis (SWRO) membrane technology. This can supply a maximum of 30 million gallons of drinking water per day. When that happens, it will bring Singapore closer to meeting the target of having non-conventional sources of water making up at least 30 per cent of the country's water needs by 2012.
Personal View :
Through these technologies it have broadened the possible sources for water-scare nations, like Singapore, to provide this critical resource to the people. Singapore need not depend so much on water supply from other countries. Singapore will also have
Personal View :
Through these technologies it have broadened the possible sources for water-scare nations, like Singapore, to provide this critical resource to the people. Singapore need not depend so much on water supply from other countries. Singapore will also have
Jaclyn-12 inmates compete in Yellow Ribbon songwriting contest
Singapore Prison Services' fifth annual Yellow Ribbon songwriting contest is a part-rehabilitation, part-talent programme.
With the theme 'Celebrating Second Chances', it gives inmates the opportunity to impress family and friends.
A total of 12 singer-songwriters, who beat more than 300 participants to the finals this year, will compete on Thursday, in front of their loved ones.
And for the first time, 17 inmates sat for the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music theory examination and 13 of them scored distinctions, including four perfect scores.
However, the success means little, without their loved ones. One of them said: "The most important thing I want to tell my parents is that I'm really very sorry for what I've done. And I wish all of you will take me back."
Personal views:
I feels very happy and proud for the inmates as after they were imprisoned,they were remorseful about their past actions and were repentent so by participating in the Yellow Ribbon songwriting contest,they showed others that they are willing to turn over a new leaf and change for the better.Hence,to encourage them and show our support, we needs to accept their flaws.After all,nobody is perfect.Parents whose child are in prison should forgive them as ultimately,they are the ones who should be held responsible for their child's action.Since the child are willing to change for the better,they should let bygones be bygones and strive for the better n life.
With the theme 'Celebrating Second Chances', it gives inmates the opportunity to impress family and friends.
A total of 12 singer-songwriters, who beat more than 300 participants to the finals this year, will compete on Thursday, in front of their loved ones.
And for the first time, 17 inmates sat for the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music theory examination and 13 of them scored distinctions, including four perfect scores.
However, the success means little, without their loved ones. One of them said: "The most important thing I want to tell my parents is that I'm really very sorry for what I've done. And I wish all of you will take me back."
Personal views:
I feels very happy and proud for the inmates as after they were imprisoned,they were remorseful about their past actions and were repentent so by participating in the Yellow Ribbon songwriting contest,they showed others that they are willing to turn over a new leaf and change for the better.Hence,to encourage them and show our support, we needs to accept their flaws.After all,nobody is perfect.Parents whose child are in prison should forgive them as ultimately,they are the ones who should be held responsible for their child's action.Since the child are willing to change for the better,they should let bygones be bygones and strive for the better n life.
Bridget Tang - Johor to have separate pumps for Singapore drivers
Malaysia will be setting up a dual pump system at petrol stations near the borders to stop foreigners from buying fuel at a subsidised price. This announcement comes less than a month after the Malaysian government raised petrol prices and this new measure will mean that Singaporeans who refuel in Southern Johor will have the pay more. The Malaysian government claims that this implementation will have two benefits, namely foreigners will have to pay for petrol at market price and Malaysians will also know the actual market price of petrol. This steep fuel hike then in turn created public anger as this has caused the prices of goods and services to go up too and meanwhile, Prime Minister Abduallah Badawi was quoted saying that the government would give more rebates to help Malaysians cope with higher fuel costs.
Personal Views:
Although I am not affected much by this rise of fuel cost, I still feel that the Malaysian government might have done the right thing because foreigners would now have to pay for petrol at market price which is, correct I think. There is also a chance that the "kiasu" Singaporeans will head to Johor just to refuel their cars at a cheaper rate and this is not really a good thing to do. A majority of people will definitely be unhappy with the change but I guess the best way to do is just to accept it and carry on with your life because the Malaysian government is also trying their best to help its people lighten their load!
Personal Views:
Although I am not affected much by this rise of fuel cost, I still feel that the Malaysian government might have done the right thing because foreigners would now have to pay for petrol at market price which is, correct I think. There is also a chance that the "kiasu" Singaporeans will head to Johor just to refuel their cars at a cheaper rate and this is not really a good thing to do. A majority of people will definitely be unhappy with the change but I guess the best way to do is just to accept it and carry on with your life because the Malaysian government is also trying their best to help its people lighten their load!
Jaclyn-A child prostitute at 14,an AIDS activist today
Ms Srey Mom, from Cambodia, started working at the age of seven, was abandoned at 10 and was totured into becoming a child prostitute at 14.
At 16, she contracted the HIV virus.Now, at 20, she is an activist and determined to help other Cambodian girls avoid her fate.
For many of the Singapore students who attended the World Vision's 30-hour Famine Camp at the Anglo-Chinese School in Barkey Road, she voiced on out the problems of human trafficking and child prostitution which affect Cambodia and other South-east Asian countries.
The World Vision agency has run the camp annually since 1985 to educate and motivate Singapore youths to act on global issues such as hunger, poverty, HIV/Aids and the environment.
It is estimated that up to 30,000 sex workers are estimated to be below 16 years old and about a fifth of the country's female sex workers are infected with HIV.
Personal views:
I trult sympathize with those who were forced and tortured into the service of child prostitution.I felt really blessed to be living in Singapore,which thankfully is one country which stresses on the importance of human rights.Therefore,we should help the less fortunate by playing a part and help to prevent these situations from happening.The World Vision agency has played a great role in spreading the messages such as prevent from having unprotected sex.Hence,in order to prevent the shocking number of 30000 sex workers to fall in the hands of HIV/AIDS,we should use all forms of communications to spread the messages.
At 16, she contracted the HIV virus.Now, at 20, she is an activist and determined to help other Cambodian girls avoid her fate.
For many of the Singapore students who attended the World Vision's 30-hour Famine Camp at the Anglo-Chinese School in Barkey Road, she voiced on out the problems of human trafficking and child prostitution which affect Cambodia and other South-east Asian countries.
The World Vision agency has run the camp annually since 1985 to educate and motivate Singapore youths to act on global issues such as hunger, poverty, HIV/Aids and the environment.
It is estimated that up to 30,000 sex workers are estimated to be below 16 years old and about a fifth of the country's female sex workers are infected with HIV.
Personal views:
I trult sympathize with those who were forced and tortured into the service of child prostitution.I felt really blessed to be living in Singapore,which thankfully is one country which stresses on the importance of human rights.Therefore,we should help the less fortunate by playing a part and help to prevent these situations from happening.The World Vision agency has played a great role in spreading the messages such as prevent from having unprotected sex.Hence,in order to prevent the shocking number of 30000 sex workers to fall in the hands of HIV/AIDS,we should use all forms of communications to spread the messages.
Amanda Soh - Singapore to host eight sports in 2009
In slightly over a year's time, Singapore will host the inaugural Asian Youth Games. On Monday, the Singapore Sports Council (SSC) confirmed the Games will feature eight sports - track and field, bowling, beach volleyball, three-on-three basketball, sailing, shooting, swimming and diving, and table tennis. It will be held from July 2-9. The SSC and Ministry of Education (MOE) will spearhead the organising of the Games, which will be used to help Singapore prepare for the inaugural Youth Olympic Games, which it will host from August 14-26, 2010. The Asian Youth Games' opening ceremony will be held in conjunction with the Singapore Youth Festival.
Personal View :
With Singapore hosting the inaugural Asian Youth Games, the singapore representive will be able to compete with other athletes around Asia. This could help to gauge their standand against the better athletes before the Youth Olympic Games. They will be able to know their strength and withnesses and also to improve their skills. With this, Singapore will be able to bag home a few medals during the Youth Olympic Games on home ground.
Personal View :
With Singapore hosting the inaugural Asian Youth Games, the singapore representive will be able to compete with other athletes around Asia. This could help to gauge their standand against the better athletes before the Youth Olympic Games. They will be able to know their strength and withnesses and also to improve their skills. With this, Singapore will be able to bag home a few medals during the Youth Olympic Games on home ground.
Bridget Tang - Devoting his body to Beijing Olympics
Mr Sun Ding Guo wanted to test himself through hardship and diligence and challenge himself by doing things like rewarding himself a 36th Olympic-themed tattoo after completing a 10 month journey across China pedalling his rickshaw for the Beijing Games. He also gave up his job, his dreams and the chance the get a girlfriend as he single-mindedly promoted the Olympic spirit. He is now a walking billboard depicting symbols of different sports. Not only that, he went to China's Zhejiang province to just to get signatures of people who support the Games.
Personal Views:
I cannot believe this man here has really got the courage to do all these just to promote the Olympic spirit. I am very glad to know that Mr Sun Ding Guo, a chinese is willing to do sacrifice his everything for Beijing Olympics. The chinese people are called "The Dragon Descendants" and I must really agree to that. Well, you can compare him with the dragon, he has the "very daring and not afraid of anything" attitude in him. He is one in a milllon indeed.
Personal Views:
I cannot believe this man here has really got the courage to do all these just to promote the Olympic spirit. I am very glad to know that Mr Sun Ding Guo, a chinese is willing to do sacrifice his everything for Beijing Olympics. The chinese people are called "The Dragon Descendants" and I must really agree to that. Well, you can compare him with the dragon, he has the "very daring and not afraid of anything" attitude in him. He is one in a milllon indeed.
Bridget Tang - Unclean water kills 4000 daily worldwide
The World Health Organisation has warned that polluted drinking water will kill around 1.6 million people this year unless governments make an effort to do something. As this is a problem plaguing all countries, Singapore introduced 'Singapore International Water Week' where experts from around the world will come together and discuss about how to solve the problem. Although there are still people who do not have clean water to drink, the situation is improving as countries now are focusing at new technologies like desalination and special filtration systems. Also, World Health Organisation hopes to use Singapore as a model for water-scarce countries.
Personal Views:
Firstly, I feel that the Singapore government has done a good job on providing its citizens clean drinking water. Although Singapore has clean drinking water, it does not mean that other countries have the same thing. Therefore, Singapore government will be providing advice and volunteer help to these countries. Well, I must say I feel very proud with the Singapore because even though she is a tiny country, it is hoped to be a role model for other bigger and stronger countries. Well, water is indeed very precious and I hope people in water-strapped countries will get to have clean water to drink soon!
Personal Views:
Firstly, I feel that the Singapore government has done a good job on providing its citizens clean drinking water. Although Singapore has clean drinking water, it does not mean that other countries have the same thing. Therefore, Singapore government will be providing advice and volunteer help to these countries. Well, I must say I feel very proud with the Singapore because even though she is a tiny country, it is hoped to be a role model for other bigger and stronger countries. Well, water is indeed very precious and I hope people in water-strapped countries will get to have clean water to drink soon!
shi ying - devoting his body to Beijing Olympics
Mr SunDingguo gave up his job, his dreams to devote time to the Beijing Olympics.He single-mindedly promoted the Olympic spirit by piercing tattoos on his body and completed a 10month journey across China pedalling his rickshaw for the glory of the Beijing Games.He began his tattoo mania in July 2001 when China was awarded the Games and he's now a walking billboard depicting the symbol of different sport China's Olympic logo and "Beijing 2008".His hair is cut in 5 Olympic Rings and dyed in the colours of The Games.He also left his job as a rickshaw rider and to pedal round several provinces with the aim of collecting signatures support The Games and trained himself through diligence and challenged himself for the Olympic spirit.
Personal Response:I think he is a very courageous and noble person who is willing to sacrifice his own body,his future for the honour of The Olympic Games.Not many people is willing to endure the pain of piercing and be willing to sacrifice.I can also see that his love for his country is so deep to be a walking billboard and to promote Beijing Olympic 2008.He is also a daring person who is willing to try new things and challenge himself.However,although his devotion is very admirable ,he should also be concern of his own situation since he left his job and have no revenue to support himself.He should at least put his well-being in the first place and then promote Beijing Olympic Games.
Personal Response:I think he is a very courageous and noble person who is willing to sacrifice his own body,his future for the honour of The Olympic Games.Not many people is willing to endure the pain of piercing and be willing to sacrifice.I can also see that his love for his country is so deep to be a walking billboard and to promote Beijing Olympic 2008.He is also a daring person who is willing to try new things and challenge himself.However,although his devotion is very admirable ,he should also be concern of his own situation since he left his job and have no revenue to support himself.He should at least put his well-being in the first place and then promote Beijing Olympic Games.
Voon Shi Tian- Gamblers spent estimated $4.2b on 4-D
Summary of new events
According to Straits Times check, Singaporeans have gambled away billions of dollars last year, with bulk of bets going towards 4-D lotteries.In addition, there is an upward trend of residents spending hundreds of millions on both horse racing and Toto.Also, the giagantic taxes received on 4-D mirror the results of a recent government study which showed it was Singapore's most popular game. Studies also found out that more people see 4-D and Toto as leisure activities.With the lure of hitting the jackpot, it has become easier for people to part with their money and the popularity of 4-D has fatened governments coffers.
My personal Response
I strongly discourage Singaporeans to spend their money on gambling because i think that it is a watse of money.No doubt,it is hard to resist the temptation of trying our luck on 4-D lotteries and other bettings, however this is when self-control comes in.The probability of hitting the jackpot is very very small hence i think there is no point of wasting money on such bets unless you are that kind of very lucky person.By subtracting the amount of money won from the amount of money used on placing bets, the left overs are the sum of money that can be actually put into good use.However,it is not to say that betting on 4-D is totally bad but one must put a limit to it.Unless you are the one who have a lot money, you can bet as much as you like.I have heard that some people were so tempted in gambling that they spent all the savings they had and landed themselves being bankrupted.However,this has not only affected themselves but also their families members.Some even landed up having to divorce as the family members are sick of the gamblers' gambling habits.Worse still, some gamblers do not learnt their lessons and turn to loansharks to borrow more money in hope to buy more luck.However this will cause them to become bad to worst.Therefore, i encourage people to limit themselves on spending money on bets so that more money can be saved and put into good use one day.
According to Straits Times check, Singaporeans have gambled away billions of dollars last year, with bulk of bets going towards 4-D lotteries.In addition, there is an upward trend of residents spending hundreds of millions on both horse racing and Toto.Also, the giagantic taxes received on 4-D mirror the results of a recent government study which showed it was Singapore's most popular game. Studies also found out that more people see 4-D and Toto as leisure activities.With the lure of hitting the jackpot, it has become easier for people to part with their money and the popularity of 4-D has fatened governments coffers.
My personal Response
I strongly discourage Singaporeans to spend their money on gambling because i think that it is a watse of money.No doubt,it is hard to resist the temptation of trying our luck on 4-D lotteries and other bettings, however this is when self-control comes in.The probability of hitting the jackpot is very very small hence i think there is no point of wasting money on such bets unless you are that kind of very lucky person.By subtracting the amount of money won from the amount of money used on placing bets, the left overs are the sum of money that can be actually put into good use.However,it is not to say that betting on 4-D is totally bad but one must put a limit to it.Unless you are the one who have a lot money, you can bet as much as you like.I have heard that some people were so tempted in gambling that they spent all the savings they had and landed themselves being bankrupted.However,this has not only affected themselves but also their families members.Some even landed up having to divorce as the family members are sick of the gamblers' gambling habits.Worse still, some gamblers do not learnt their lessons and turn to loansharks to borrow more money in hope to buy more luck.However this will cause them to become bad to worst.Therefore, i encourage people to limit themselves on spending money on bets so that more money can be saved and put into good use one day.
Voon Shi Tian - Unclean Water kills 4,000 daily worldwide
Summary of news events
The World Health Organisation(WHO) has warned that polluted drinking water will kill around 1.6 million people this year unlessgovernmentaround the world make a concerted effort to clean up their supplies.In addition, over 4,000 people die each day from water-borne diseases and death toll is not restricted to Third World nations.By bringing experts from around the world together through the Singapore international Water Week,they will discuss management policies, the impact of global warming, and the need to diversify water sources.However, leaders have to put their money where their mouths are and make good on a myraid of promises to provide affordable, clean drinking water.Furthermore, governments also need to invest heavily in building and maintainingwater infrastructure.The WHo hopes to use Singapore as a role model for other water-scarce countries and troughe an aagreement,this country will provide advice and volunteer help to water scarce countries.
My Personal Response
I think that the government has a great responsibility in providing safe drinkable water for his people as dirty water will cause many health problems like water-borne diseases, diarrhea and even deaths.I am relieved to see that the Singapore government has invested lots of money in looking to new technologies like desalination so that his people has clean water to drink from. In addition, i feel lucky and blessed to have clean water to drink from unlike the people in other countries. Through this, i also understand the importance of saving water. Imagine having dirty water to drink, to bathe, etc! Furthermore, i am proud that the WHo wishes to use Singapore as a role model for other water-scarce countries.Although Singapore is just a small island, she is able to make sure that her citizens have their essencials well-provided for and looks into other water sources in case one day Malaysia decides to stop suppying Singapore with clean water. By being a role model of other water- scarce countries, i hope that the water condition in those countries will improve so that lesser people will be affected by the unclean water.
The World Health Organisation(WHO) has warned that polluted drinking water will kill around 1.6 million people this year unlessgovernmentaround the world make a concerted effort to clean up their supplies.In addition, over 4,000 people die each day from water-borne diseases and death toll is not restricted to Third World nations.By bringing experts from around the world together through the Singapore international Water Week,they will discuss management policies, the impact of global warming, and the need to diversify water sources.However, leaders have to put their money where their mouths are and make good on a myraid of promises to provide affordable, clean drinking water.Furthermore, governments also need to invest heavily in building and maintainingwater infrastructure.The WHo hopes to use Singapore as a role model for other water-scarce countries and troughe an aagreement,this country will provide advice and volunteer help to water scarce countries.
My Personal Response
I think that the government has a great responsibility in providing safe drinkable water for his people as dirty water will cause many health problems like water-borne diseases, diarrhea and even deaths.I am relieved to see that the Singapore government has invested lots of money in looking to new technologies like desalination so that his people has clean water to drink from. In addition, i feel lucky and blessed to have clean water to drink from unlike the people in other countries. Through this, i also understand the importance of saving water. Imagine having dirty water to drink, to bathe, etc! Furthermore, i am proud that the WHo wishes to use Singapore as a role model for other water-scarce countries.Although Singapore is just a small island, she is able to make sure that her citizens have their essencials well-provided for and looks into other water sources in case one day Malaysia decides to stop suppying Singapore with clean water. By being a role model of other water- scarce countries, i hope that the water condition in those countries will improve so that lesser people will be affected by the unclean water.
WenXian-10narrowly escapeBukit Panjang blaze,arson suspected
Arsonists are believed to have struck a five-room HDB flat in the Bukit Panjang area on June 23 morning.Petrol have been splashed on the floor of the sixth story Senja Road flat.Singapore Civil Defence Force took about 10mins to extinguish the fire and rescued eight of the ten flat occupants, who tried to escape by climbing through the building's narrow air condition-ing ledge.
Flames from the burning sixth-storey flat reached as high as the ninth floor, blackening the exterior walls of the Bukit Panjang block. Units directly above the fiery flat were damaged by the blaze ,cracking glass panes. An 82-year old retired fireman ran for pails of water to help douse the flames.Onlookers shouted to the trapped man to stay calm and assured them that help was on the way.
Personal Response:
I feel that this is such a tragedy as the flame has cause a lot of damage to the resident's property.It is also a good way of showing the singaporean spirit as a multi-racial society.
Kelly Wee-Canada confirms new case of mad cow disease
VANCOUVER - A NEW case of mad cow disease has been confirmed in Canada, its 13th case since 2003.
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency said on Monday it is investigating where the infected cow was born in British Columbia.
Mad cow disease is also known as bovine spongiform encephalopathy, or BSE.
The inspection agency says a ban on using animal materials in feed products has virtually eliminated the spread of BSE in Canada, but a small number of mad cow cases are still expected to surface.
In 2006 and 2007 the disease was found in two British Columbia dairy cows that were infected by contaminated feed. The inspection agency said no part of the animal entered the human food system.
Personal comments: Mad cow disease could be very serious as in could affect everyone worldwide! Hence, it is best to have an antidote so as to ensure the outspread of disease and also to stop people from dying from the disease
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency said on Monday it is investigating where the infected cow was born in British Columbia.
Mad cow disease is also known as bovine spongiform encephalopathy, or BSE.
The inspection agency says a ban on using animal materials in feed products has virtually eliminated the spread of BSE in Canada, but a small number of mad cow cases are still expected to surface.
In 2006 and 2007 the disease was found in two British Columbia dairy cows that were infected by contaminated feed. The inspection agency said no part of the animal entered the human food system.
Personal comments: Mad cow disease could be very serious as in could affect everyone worldwide! Hence, it is best to have an antidote so as to ensure the outspread of disease and also to stop people from dying from the disease
Varian Ang- Every dog as its day - even ugly ones
GUS the dog has three legs, one eye and no hair, except for a white tuft on the top of its head and its a real winner.The pedigree Chinese crested won the World's Ugliest Dog contest on saturday at the Sonoma-Marin Fair in northern California. Its owner, Ms Jeanenne Teed, had brought GUS all the way from Florida to compete fot the dubious distinction.After the excitement of the moment, Ms Teed said of her dog's reaction: "well, i think right now, it is ready for a nap" The Chinese crested breed is a popular choice in this annual contest with last years's champ, Elwood, a chinese crested and chihuahua mix. Gus' owner won US$500 and will be flown to New York to appear on CBS This Morning, with the event to be aired on the Animal Planet network in October.
Personal view: Even though people area willing to pay a higher price for a pure breed or a nicely coated dog, there are still people who are willing to breed a ugly looking one. Dog lovers has dedicated their time even to look after ugly looking dogs. From looking at the dedications this people would provide for the dog, it shows me that we can do something as long as we want to and has the heart to do it.
Personal view: Even though people area willing to pay a higher price for a pure breed or a nicely coated dog, there are still people who are willing to breed a ugly looking one. Dog lovers has dedicated their time even to look after ugly looking dogs. From looking at the dedications this people would provide for the dog, it shows me that we can do something as long as we want to and has the heart to do it.
Kelly WEE-Nigerian youths blow up oil pipeline
Armed youths blew up a Nigerian crude oil pipeline operated by US. This cut more output from the world's eigth largest oil exporter. The attack came hours after the MEND attacked a remote Royal Dutch Shell offshore facility, cutting the country's oil output by 10 per cent and under the scoring the vulnerability of Africa's biggest oil producer. Mend said it was not responsible for the Chevron attack, but that it was contacted by youths claiming responsiblity for blowing up the crude pipeline. Military said that crude oil production is largely affected.
Personal comments: Now the oil prices is raising as steep as a mountain! Due to the sabotage, the oil production is largely affected and hence affecting the rest of the world as the amount of oil exported to other countries will be affected and also hence causing oil prices to increase in individual country.
Personal comments: Now the oil prices is raising as steep as a mountain! Due to the sabotage, the oil production is largely affected and hence affecting the rest of the world as the amount of oil exported to other countries will be affected and also hence causing oil prices to increase in individual country.
Rachel Chia - Asleep at the wheelchair: Australian man charged with drunk rolling
In Brisbane, Australia - A man found asleep in a motorized wheelchair on a highway has been charged with drunk driving.
Officers noticed the man slumped in the stationary chair about 10A.M Friday on an exit lane near the tourist city of Cairns. Regional traffic Inspector Bob Waters said that cars were swerving to get around him.
The officers tested the breath of the 64-year-old man, who registed a blood alcohol reading of 0.301 - more than six times the legal driving limit. Hence, he was charged with operating a vehicle while drunk and ordered to report to court on July 7.
Although typical vehicles associated with drink driving are cars, trucks and motorbikes, there are also other classes of vehicles subjected to drink-driving laws. These include horses, bicycles and motorized vehicles.
Personal Views:
Although a tad silly, the man ought to have realised the severity of his actions. Despite a motorcycle not being an actual 'vehicle', he was still on the road and controlling his vehicle while he was drunk. This might have cost him his life if others had knocked him out by accident. To prevent such things from happening, we should start actively spreading the message of how drink-driving applies to all sorts of vehicles on the road, not just the usual cars and motorcycles. The message of the consequences of drink-driving should still be spread around to ensure everyone knows the dangers and harm it might cause them.
Officers noticed the man slumped in the stationary chair about 10A.M Friday on an exit lane near the tourist city of Cairns. Regional traffic Inspector Bob Waters said that cars were swerving to get around him.
The officers tested the breath of the 64-year-old man, who registed a blood alcohol reading of 0.301 - more than six times the legal driving limit. Hence, he was charged with operating a vehicle while drunk and ordered to report to court on July 7.
Although typical vehicles associated with drink driving are cars, trucks and motorbikes, there are also other classes of vehicles subjected to drink-driving laws. These include horses, bicycles and motorized vehicles.
Personal Views:
Although a tad silly, the man ought to have realised the severity of his actions. Despite a motorcycle not being an actual 'vehicle', he was still on the road and controlling his vehicle while he was drunk. This might have cost him his life if others had knocked him out by accident. To prevent such things from happening, we should start actively spreading the message of how drink-driving applies to all sorts of vehicles on the road, not just the usual cars and motorcycles. The message of the consequences of drink-driving should still be spread around to ensure everyone knows the dangers and harm it might cause them.
Chi Jin ting-'Majestic re-mix of the classics'.
Summary of the article:
It pays homage to the classics, yet strips ot down until it becomes recognisable only through a certain refrain: the familiarity of a melody or a signature move that suddenly recalls its original context.
Canadian choreographer Edouard Lock creates poetic universes with a starkly minimal set & dancers who move with super-human speed. His choreography is precise and technical in its repetition. In an ode to the swans, the dancers' arms lash out with almost violent restraint, whick, under the dim lighting, evokes the flurry of feathered wings.
There is an inner dialogue that exists within Lock's choreography; the dancers respond to each other in this beautiful language.
A male dancer in a pas de deux with a female dancer in a white dress rises en pointe together with her: It is a beautifu.stunning sight. Later, two men dance a pas de deux.The music by contemporary composers David Land, Blake Hargreaves and Gavin Bryars is exquisite and evocative.
The classical refrain of Tchaikovsky in the muted notes of a violin was punctuated by bursts of mechanical white noise, yet with all its distortion, the composition stays elegant though moody. A pianist, a cellist and two violinists are situated at the back of the stage. The lighting, switching starkly from an unearthly blue to icy white, often snaps abruptly during scenes. The chiarascuro lighting is evocative of film noir with cinematic jumpcuts.
An exquisite masterpiece, Amjad furthers the dialogue between modern ballet and its classical roots in a ferocious, majestic display.
My Response:
Tchaikovasky's Swan Lake and Sleeping Beauty are the two most representative works of him in his whole life. Ballet is the best form to express the music, scene and meaning of these two works. He was a Russian composer, his music is not as same as other composers. His style is constantly changing. So people who study or perform his music are very careful to display the soul, the spirit and the quintessence of them. And by the way, some super stars like S.H.E., they used Tchaikovasky's Swan Lake to be one of their hot song, called "Remember" . Until now, the best pianist which can perform Tchaikovasky's works is Lang Lang from China, Shen yang. He is a genius born for piano. He is crazy when he is performing. I like his music very much but the pity thing is he didn't compose many pieces of works. That's sad.
It pays homage to the classics, yet strips ot down until it becomes recognisable only through a certain refrain: the familiarity of a melody or a signature move that suddenly recalls its original context.
Canadian choreographer Edouard Lock creates poetic universes with a starkly minimal set & dancers who move with super-human speed. His choreography is precise and technical in its repetition. In an ode to the swans, the dancers' arms lash out with almost violent restraint, whick, under the dim lighting, evokes the flurry of feathered wings.
There is an inner dialogue that exists within Lock's choreography; the dancers respond to each other in this beautiful language.
A male dancer in a pas de deux with a female dancer in a white dress rises en pointe together with her: It is a beautifu.stunning sight. Later, two men dance a pas de deux.The music by contemporary composers David Land, Blake Hargreaves and Gavin Bryars is exquisite and evocative.
The classical refrain of Tchaikovsky in the muted notes of a violin was punctuated by bursts of mechanical white noise, yet with all its distortion, the composition stays elegant though moody. A pianist, a cellist and two violinists are situated at the back of the stage. The lighting, switching starkly from an unearthly blue to icy white, often snaps abruptly during scenes. The chiarascuro lighting is evocative of film noir with cinematic jumpcuts.
An exquisite masterpiece, Amjad furthers the dialogue between modern ballet and its classical roots in a ferocious, majestic display.
My Response:
Tchaikovasky's Swan Lake and Sleeping Beauty are the two most representative works of him in his whole life. Ballet is the best form to express the music, scene and meaning of these two works. He was a Russian composer, his music is not as same as other composers. His style is constantly changing. So people who study or perform his music are very careful to display the soul, the spirit and the quintessence of them. And by the way, some super stars like S.H.E., they used Tchaikovasky's Swan Lake to be one of their hot song, called "Remember" . Until now, the best pianist which can perform Tchaikovasky's works is Lang Lang from China, Shen yang. He is a genius born for piano. He is crazy when he is performing. I like his music very much but the pity thing is he didn't compose many pieces of works. That's sad.
jaclyn-Sports bra saves hiker stranded in Alps
BERLIN, Germany (AP) -- An American hiker stranded in the Bavarian Alps for nearly three days was rescued after using her sports bra as a signal, police in southern Germany said Monday.
Berchtesgaden police officer Lorenz Rasp said that he helped lift 24-year-old Jessica Bruinsma of Colorado to safety by helicopter on Thursday after she attracted the attention of lumberjacks by attaching her sports bra to a cable used to move timber down the mountain.
"She's a very smart girl, and she acted very resourcefully," said Rasp. "She kept her shirt and jacket for warmth, but thought the sports bra could work as a signal."
An Alpine rescue team, including five helicopters and 80 emergency workers, had been searching for Bruinsma since she went missing June 16 after losing her way in bad weather while hiking with a friend near the Austrian border.
She fell 16.4 feet to a rocky overhang, where she spent the next 70 hours on the narrow ledge, sustained by water that she found by breaking into a supply box on the ledge.
She badly bruised a leg and dislocated a shoulder in the fall, and the cliff was too isolated for her to climb free, Rasp said.
Rasp said the cable was only within reach because the timber transport system was out of service. When a repairman restored the line on Thursday, the cable car started moving up the mountain and Bruinsma's bra reached the worker at the base. He knew of the missing hiker and immediately called police.
Rasp said his team followed the cable line up the cliff side in a helicopter and found Bruinsma standing on the ledge, waving with her good arm. After circling once, they lowered a winch to Bruinsma and lifted her aboard."
She did so well because she is in very good shape," Rasp said. "She has been training for a marathon -- her goal is to finish in 3 hours and 10 minutes."
Bruinsma told Rasp that she has scrapped plans to stay in Berchtesgaden to learn German and plans to return home to Colorado Springs with her parents. He said she still plans to run the marathon, if she recovers in time to keep training.
Personal views:
Using clothes to attracts rescuers' attention to the fact that someone was being stranded somewhere is a good idea.But using a sports bra as a signal is unheard of,especially by attaching it to a cable used to move timber down the mountain.Not only can the stranded person has a glimmer of hope that someone will see the sports bra and linked it to a missing person looking for rescue,she can also keep herself warm with her shirt and pants.Isn't that being resourceful!And also,even though she had badly bruised a leg and dislocated a shoulder when she fell,she had overcame her pain in the hope that she will be rescued.Most importantly,if not for the repairman
who had spotted the sports bra and linked it to the missing hiker,she would still be stranded somewhere in the mountain.Thanks to her perserverance,she is able to overcome every obstacles and be rescued.
Berchtesgaden police officer Lorenz Rasp said that he helped lift 24-year-old Jessica Bruinsma of Colorado to safety by helicopter on Thursday after she attracted the attention of lumberjacks by attaching her sports bra to a cable used to move timber down the mountain.
"She's a very smart girl, and she acted very resourcefully," said Rasp. "She kept her shirt and jacket for warmth, but thought the sports bra could work as a signal."
An Alpine rescue team, including five helicopters and 80 emergency workers, had been searching for Bruinsma since she went missing June 16 after losing her way in bad weather while hiking with a friend near the Austrian border.
She fell 16.4 feet to a rocky overhang, where she spent the next 70 hours on the narrow ledge, sustained by water that she found by breaking into a supply box on the ledge.
She badly bruised a leg and dislocated a shoulder in the fall, and the cliff was too isolated for her to climb free, Rasp said.
Rasp said the cable was only within reach because the timber transport system was out of service. When a repairman restored the line on Thursday, the cable car started moving up the mountain and Bruinsma's bra reached the worker at the base. He knew of the missing hiker and immediately called police.
Rasp said his team followed the cable line up the cliff side in a helicopter and found Bruinsma standing on the ledge, waving with her good arm. After circling once, they lowered a winch to Bruinsma and lifted her aboard."
She did so well because she is in very good shape," Rasp said. "She has been training for a marathon -- her goal is to finish in 3 hours and 10 minutes."
Bruinsma told Rasp that she has scrapped plans to stay in Berchtesgaden to learn German and plans to return home to Colorado Springs with her parents. He said she still plans to run the marathon, if she recovers in time to keep training.
Personal views:
Using clothes to attracts rescuers' attention to the fact that someone was being stranded somewhere is a good idea.But using a sports bra as a signal is unheard of,especially by attaching it to a cable used to move timber down the mountain.Not only can the stranded person has a glimmer of hope that someone will see the sports bra and linked it to a missing person looking for rescue,she can also keep herself warm with her shirt and pants.Isn't that being resourceful!And also,even though she had badly bruised a leg and dislocated a shoulder when she fell,she had overcame her pain in the hope that she will be rescued.Most importantly,if not for the repairman
who had spotted the sports bra and linked it to the missing hiker,she would still be stranded somewhere in the mountain.Thanks to her perserverance,she is able to overcome every obstacles and be rescued.
Cylvi Lim - McCain calls for $300 million prize for better car battery
Sen. John McCain on Monday called for a $300 million prize to whoever can develop a battery that will "leapfrog" the abilities of current hybrid and electric cars. Citing high oil prices, the Republican presidential candidate said he wants his offer to "deliver a power source at 30 percent of the current costs."
"[The prize would amount to] $1 for every man, woman and child in the U.S. -- a small price to pay for helping to break the back of our oil dependency," McCain said during a town hall-style meeting at California's Fresno State University. McCain said the new automobile battery should have "the size, capacity, cost and power to leapfrog the commercially available plug-in hybrids or electric cars."
"In the quest for alternatives to oil, our government has thrown around enough money subsidizing special interests and excusing failure," McCain said. "From now on, we will encourage heroic efforts in engineering, and we will reward the greatest success."
McCain's remarks came a day after his Democratic rival, Sen. Barack Obama, called for greater oversight for energy traders. Obama's campaign said many economists believe speculation could be adding between $20 and $50 to the price of a barrel of oil; the price per barrel closed near $135 on Friday.
Personal response:
I think that McCain's idea is very good as now the price of oil increases leading to financial problems for a lot of people. Businesses are also affected from the increasing oil prices, as it needed to run cars and trucks to transport goods. For example, vegetables and poultry prices increased and affect the consumers. Taxi drivers also having a more difficult job and will earn less money as the fuel costs for the car increased. In my opinion, as oil become more expensive and is depleting, we need to find alternatives for oil. The $300 million prize that McCain suggest for better car battery will attract a lot of people's attention to invent alternatives for oil.
"[The prize would amount to] $1 for every man, woman and child in the U.S. -- a small price to pay for helping to break the back of our oil dependency," McCain said during a town hall-style meeting at California's Fresno State University. McCain said the new automobile battery should have "the size, capacity, cost and power to leapfrog the commercially available plug-in hybrids or electric cars."
"In the quest for alternatives to oil, our government has thrown around enough money subsidizing special interests and excusing failure," McCain said. "From now on, we will encourage heroic efforts in engineering, and we will reward the greatest success."
McCain's remarks came a day after his Democratic rival, Sen. Barack Obama, called for greater oversight for energy traders. Obama's campaign said many economists believe speculation could be adding between $20 and $50 to the price of a barrel of oil; the price per barrel closed near $135 on Friday.
Personal response:
I think that McCain's idea is very good as now the price of oil increases leading to financial problems for a lot of people. Businesses are also affected from the increasing oil prices, as it needed to run cars and trucks to transport goods. For example, vegetables and poultry prices increased and affect the consumers. Taxi drivers also having a more difficult job and will earn less money as the fuel costs for the car increased. In my opinion, as oil become more expensive and is depleting, we need to find alternatives for oil. The $300 million prize that McCain suggest for better car battery will attract a lot of people's attention to invent alternatives for oil.
Lynn Tang- Cellphones could play key role in tracking infectious diseases
Summary: By tracking the cellphone's signal, researchers could tell whether you have crossed paths with someone who is infected by diseases such as dengue, malaria and bird flu. Cellphone tracking could reduce the time it takes to trace a patient's contact as right now, health officers have a hard time tracking diseases like dengue, which can pop up in several areas of the city at once. Singapore would be an ideal place to use mobile phone as it is a small place and Singaporeans have one of the higest rates of mobile phone ownership in the world. However, the health authorities here are unwilling to use the teachnology in the infectious tracking as it infringes on an individual's privacy.
Comments: Though that the tracking of infectious system will infringes on one's privacy, i feel that this can help to reduce the time to trace a patient's contact and this will generally benefit the rest as the doctors can spent lesser time to wait for the results of the blood test. Now, there are still cases of dengue fever in public area and if the tracking of diseases is activated, the cases of dengue fever will be reduce because the doctors can easily deduce if you have the possibility of getting dengue fever. This can save the doctors' and individual's time and the doctors are able to attend to other patients. As a result, more patients will be saved. Also, by checking the phone contacts, if a person is affected, the family members wuld also have a small possibility of being affected too. This not only can save time and it will save our loved ones.
Comments: Though that the tracking of infectious system will infringes on one's privacy, i feel that this can help to reduce the time to trace a patient's contact and this will generally benefit the rest as the doctors can spent lesser time to wait for the results of the blood test. Now, there are still cases of dengue fever in public area and if the tracking of diseases is activated, the cases of dengue fever will be reduce because the doctors can easily deduce if you have the possibility of getting dengue fever. This can save the doctors' and individual's time and the doctors are able to attend to other patients. As a result, more patients will be saved. Also, by checking the phone contacts, if a person is affected, the family members wuld also have a small possibility of being affected too. This not only can save time and it will save our loved ones.
Kelly Wee-Motorcyclist in Fatal crash
A motorcyclist in his early 40s, died after his motorcycle crashed into a railing on the centre divider at Geylang Bahru. He was travelling in the direction of Bendemeer Road and is believed to have lost control of the motorbike near the Kolam Ayer Community Club. He suffered multiple injuries and died at the scene.
Personal Comment: I feel that it is not worthwhile to be exchange a person's life for a few minutes at the exchange of one's life. Would it be worthwhile to not waste time and risk losing one's life due to speeding and eventually ending in an accident? -It isn't worthwile at all
Personal Comment: I feel that it is not worthwhile to be exchange a person's life for a few minutes at the exchange of one's life. Would it be worthwhile to not waste time and risk losing one's life due to speeding and eventually ending in an accident? -It isn't worthwile at all
Bridget Tang - A child prostitude at 14, an Aids activist today
Ms Srey Mom is a Cambodian who was one of the unfortunate girls who was being sold to be a child prostitude. She started working at the age of seven, abandoned at 10 and then she became a child prostitude at 14. She contracted the HIV virus when she was only 16. She is now an activist who is determined to help other Cambodian girls avoid her fate. Therefore, she shared about problems of human trafficking and child prostitution that plagued Cambodia and other South-east Asian countries to Singapore students who attended a Famine Camp. 30,000 sex workers in Cambodia are estimated to be below 16 years of age and a fifth of these workers are infected with HIV. The relief and advocacy agency runs camps annually to educate Singaporeans to act on global issues such as poverty, hunger and HIV or AIDS. As people are getting poorer, parents are known to sell their daughters.
Personal Views:
As a teenager, I truly sympathise with Ms Srey Mom and other girls who were being sold to work as child prostitudes. I feel I am really fortunate to be a Singaporean as I cannot imagine if Singapore has such activities happening. We, Singaporeans at least have the chance to learn about global issues rather than being the victims over at Cambodia.
Personal Views:
As a teenager, I truly sympathise with Ms Srey Mom and other girls who were being sold to work as child prostitudes. I feel I am really fortunate to be a Singaporean as I cannot imagine if Singapore has such activities happening. We, Singaporeans at least have the chance to learn about global issues rather than being the victims over at Cambodia.
Cheng Wee- Chinese tourists warned against gambling and porn in Taiwan
Chinese visitors to Taiwan will not be allowed to gamble or engage in ''pornographic activities''. Travel agencies are also not allowed to arrange gambling, pornographic and drug-related activites harming cross-strait relations. Chinese travel agency managers went to Taiwan on a fact-finding mission to inspect tourism infrastructure such as hotels and transportation. They inspects on tourism infrastructure at the weekend example the Taiwanese Premier Liu Chao-shiuan, to check on the progress of refurbishment works. The warning was issued by the cross-strait tourism association which then lead to the sign of break-through agreements on charter flights and tourism promotion between China and Taiwan this month.
Personal comments: I think that for my point of view, it is the right thing that they warned Chinese tourists against gambling and porn in Taiwan. This will results in less people thinking about ''dirty'' stuff and into heavy gambling as they will not have to be in contract with it. All these would only ruin their future and life and they might not have a second chance to draw back into the right path again. This would even further influence their families as they would be in heavy debt and i believed many happy families' bond have been broken because of that. I think that Singapore should also imply the similiar strictness againist gambling and porn . But overall it is up to our own thinking of getting into such stuff as if you really want it, no one can stop you.
Personal comments: I think that for my point of view, it is the right thing that they warned Chinese tourists against gambling and porn in Taiwan. This will results in less people thinking about ''dirty'' stuff and into heavy gambling as they will not have to be in contract with it. All these would only ruin their future and life and they might not have a second chance to draw back into the right path again. This would even further influence their families as they would be in heavy debt and i believed many happy families' bond have been broken because of that. I think that Singapore should also imply the similiar strictness againist gambling and porn . But overall it is up to our own thinking of getting into such stuff as if you really want it, no one can stop you.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)