Friday, February 29, 2008
Animation show at Independent Short-Film and Video Awards
My colleague at wwwins Consulting, Gary Cheng, has had his graduation animation piece 'Mask' selected to be shown in the Independent Short-Film and Video Awards (IFVA). The piece will be shown at 3pm on Saturday 15th March at the Agnes b Cinema. He may also be participating in the round table discussion after the screening. It's great to know that the work of some colleagues aren't only appreciated by clients or done just because they have a job to do.
Thursday, February 28, 2008
Tax cuts: A breathe of fresh spring air
The announcement of tax cuts, concessions and handouts is a welcome news for everyone in Hong Kong, especially for us who pay taxes.
Even though I am not yet sure what areas will I exactly benefit, I see myself eventually benefit from this recent release of HK$44 billion. It's as if I am not contented to know that Hong Kong has one of the best taxation in the world (favoring the taxpayers) except the non-paying states.
Financial Secretary John Tsang Chun-wah unveiled a HK$44.1 billion windfall yesterday. Among his proposals:
* HK$1,800 worth of free electricity to 2.4 million households (I pay about HK$350/month)
* Salaries tax and personal assessment tax down to 15%
* Profits tax down to 16.5%
* HK$6,000 injection to Mandatory Provident Fund to employees earning less than HK$10,000 a month (which should include domestic helpers).
* Waive government rates to 85-99% of properties with a ceiling of HK$5,000 per quarter.
* HK$3,000 one-off allowance for elderly recipients.
* HK$1 billion medical subsidy to the Samaritan Fund.
* HK$1 billion for home maintenance of the elderly.
* HK$53 million for tackling drug abuse among the young people.
* HK$40 million assistance to victims of domestic abuse.
* 100% profits tax deduction for capital expenditure on environmentally-friendly machinery and equipment in the first year of purchase.
* Duties on wine, beer and alcoholic beverages (except spirits) will be exempt.
* HK$18 billion research endowment fund to the University Grants Committee Research Grant Council.
* Additional 800 additional publicly-funded slots for postgraduate research programmes in phases from the 2009-10 school year.
Source: news.gov.hk
Even though I am not yet sure what areas will I exactly benefit, I see myself eventually benefit from this recent release of HK$44 billion. It's as if I am not contented to know that Hong Kong has one of the best taxation in the world (favoring the taxpayers) except the non-paying states.
Financial Secretary John Tsang Chun-wah unveiled a HK$44.1 billion windfall yesterday. Among his proposals:
* HK$1,800 worth of free electricity to 2.4 million households (I pay about HK$350/month)
* Salaries tax and personal assessment tax down to 15%
* Profits tax down to 16.5%
* HK$6,000 injection to Mandatory Provident Fund to employees earning less than HK$10,000 a month (which should include domestic helpers).
* Waive government rates to 85-99% of properties with a ceiling of HK$5,000 per quarter.
* HK$3,000 one-off allowance for elderly recipients.
* HK$1 billion medical subsidy to the Samaritan Fund.
* HK$1 billion for home maintenance of the elderly.
* HK$53 million for tackling drug abuse among the young people.
* HK$40 million assistance to victims of domestic abuse.
* 100% profits tax deduction for capital expenditure on environmentally-friendly machinery and equipment in the first year of purchase.
* Duties on wine, beer and alcoholic beverages (except spirits) will be exempt.
* HK$18 billion research endowment fund to the University Grants Committee Research Grant Council.
* Additional 800 additional publicly-funded slots for postgraduate research programmes in phases from the 2009-10 school year.
Source: news.gov.hk
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
David Beckham coming to town
LA Galaxy star David Beckham will join his team in coming to Hong Kong as part of an Asian tour which includes Seoul, S Korea and Shanghai, China.
But it looks like the Hong Kong itinerary was just inserted as an official from Hong Kong Football Association only received an application that a game be played only a few weeks ago. And the supposed schedule of an exhibition game between LA Galaxy and a local Hong Kong team coincides a regular match sanctioned by the HKFA.
From the Standard:
But it looks like the Hong Kong itinerary was just inserted as an official from Hong Kong Football Association only received an application that a game be played only a few weeks ago. And the supposed schedule of an exhibition game between LA Galaxy and a local Hong Kong team coincides a regular match sanctioned by the HKFA.
From the Standard:
The controversy over Beckham's second Hong Kong encounter resulted from a Xinhua News Agency report saying Galaxy on Monday had announced adding a game in Hong Kong to its Asian exhibition tour.
The report said Galaxy will face a Hong Kong Union team on March 9 at the 40,000-seat Hong Kong Stadium.
The tour will begin Saturday in Seoul with Beckham and Galaxy playing against FC Seoul. The second game will be played on March 5 in Shanghai.
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
Hong Kong population update: 6,963,100
Hong Kong's population grew by 0.8 per cent in 2007, edging the former British colony closer to the 7 million mark, government statistics revealed recently.The Census and Statistics Department said provisional figures show the population increased by 53,600 last year, up to 6,963,100 mainly as a result of births and in the inflow of people with one-way permits from mainland China.
The figures revealed there were 69,600 births in 2007 and 33,900 people moving to Hong Kong from China.
This increase was partly offset by 38,900 deaths and people leaving Hong Kong.
Experts predict the population of Hong Kong, already one of the world's most densely populated cities, will increase by nearly 2 million in the next three decades.
Most of the population growth is expected to be immigrants from mainland China, estimated to increase by 1.2 million.
Less than 500,000 of the population increase will come from Hong Kong-born babies, the census department projected.
Monday, February 25, 2008
My first visit to Hong Kong Disneyland
I went to Hong Kong Disneyland last Thursday and it was my first time to ride the Disneyland Resort Line, a one-station line that leads to the entrance of Hong Kong Disneyland. Ensuring that no Disney visitor gets lost, there is only one station to go to -- Hong Kong Disneyland -- after you transfer from Sunny Bay Station of the Tung Chung Line. The entire length of the line is 3.5 kilometers.
The train coaches reflect its attachment to Hong Kong Disneyland, and a reminder of the government's investment into the project.
* Victorian features of the Disneyland Resort station which can't be seen on any railway station in the MTR.
* Disney-themed design from window designs to handrails.
* Statues of Disney characters Mickey Mouse and Donald Duck are immortalized inside the trains.
When I arrived there were a few tourists and mostly are office workers and cast members. I realized the resort opens at 10am.
No, I wasn't supposed to go to the park, enjoy the rides and take photos. I was there to meet a few employees for a meeting. But I didn't have to get in through the main entrance to make a good impression of the park.
The train coaches reflect its attachment to Hong Kong Disneyland, and a reminder of the government's investment into the project.
* Victorian features of the Disneyland Resort station which can't be seen on any railway station in the MTR.
* Disney-themed design from window designs to handrails.
* Statues of Disney characters Mickey Mouse and Donald Duck are immortalized inside the trains.
When I arrived there were a few tourists and mostly are office workers and cast members. I realized the resort opens at 10am.
No, I wasn't supposed to go to the park, enjoy the rides and take photos. I was there to meet a few employees for a meeting. But I didn't have to get in through the main entrance to make a good impression of the park.
Sunday, February 24, 2008
Astro Boy made in Hong Kong
I am frustrated our weekend hiking will be canceled because of the rain. It's still chilly in here, with temperatures in the low teens extending towards the end of the month, the current limit of weather forecasts from the Hong Kong Observatory. We'd rather skip this hiking trip and set it sometime next month than ponder on when we can hike again because one of us tripped over a slippery path and unable to work for a week.
Anyway, this news might be appealing to my artist friend Jergen, who paid me a visit in 2006. It's about Hong Kong's position as a prime location for computer-generated imagery (CGI) business in Asia because of its plenty of talented artists.
On the other hand, this could be another sign that Japan has an aging society where old hands are not easily replaced by new ones?
With Hong Kong positioned as a major animation house in Asia, will Jergen be attracted to come over?
Anyway, this news might be appealing to my artist friend Jergen, who paid me a visit in 2006. It's about Hong Kong's position as a prime location for computer-generated imagery (CGI) business in Asia because of its plenty of talented artists.
On the other hand, this could be another sign that Japan has an aging society where old hands are not easily replaced by new ones?
With Hong Kong positioned as a major animation house in Asia, will Jergen be attracted to come over?
Saturday, February 23, 2008
Hong Kong Express flies to Clark
For Overseas Filipino Workers like me, getting better access to transportation back home is a welcome news. This is exactly the case for Filipinos who live in the northern part of the country.When I learned that Cebu Pacific will be flying direct to Davao, I immediately took advantage of the promotional offer that pays a little over HK$700 return ticket from Hong Kong to Davao. Not only did I get a cheap fare for that deal (I will expect that price to double for regular flights, but still quite affordable) manage to avoid stopovers in Manila and Cebu. That means more efficient transportation means and I get to see my beloved city immediately.
That proactive thinking by Cebu Pacific pays off; it is now has the biggest slice in the domestic air travel market.
Back to Hong Kong Express, it commences its three times a week (M-W-F) flights to Clark, a former US military base in Luzon on 5 March. This should be a boost to Hong Kong workers from provinces of Zambales, Bataan, Pampanga, Bulacan and Tarlac and ease on demand for airlines flying to Manila. A nearby airport -- Diosdado Macapagal International Airport -- in neighboring Pampanga province is being groomed as a premier airport and will also cater to direct flights from Hong Kong.
Hong Kong Express, the fourth air carrier of the former British colony, becomes the latest addition to the budget airlines operating at Clark.
Established in 2005, it flies to at least 56 destinations that include China, Japan, Thailand, the Philippines and the rest of Asia.
Hong Kong Express will use their Boeing 737-800, with a capacity of 164 passengers, for their Clark-Hong Kong route. The aircraft leaves the former British colony at 11:15 a.m., arrive at Clark at 1:15 p.m. and leave for Hong Kong at 1:45 p.m. on Mondays and Wednesdays and arrive from Hong Kong at 6:40 p.m. and leave Clark at 7:25 p.m. every Friday.
Opening of such flights to cities outside of Manila has been mostly initiatives of low-cost carriers who find cheaper landing rights. Apart from Cebu, where Cathay Pacific traditionally flies, the opening up of routes to Davao, Clark and DMIA hopefully gives travelers the choice of airlines not only for convenience but also for better quality of service.
Now, what should flag carrier Philippine Airlines do to keep up with the competition?
Friday, February 22, 2008
Sex scandal apologies: Edison Chen admits and retires
To err is human, to forgive is divine.
Edison Chen is taking some time away from the spotlight of the Hong Kong entertainment industry while admitting in public that he took the photos himself.
I guess almost everyone in Hong Kong (and those closely following the industry)is aware that he is the center of the controversy involving sexually explicit photos with Gillian Chung, Cecilia Cheung and Bobo Chan. If at least one of the women admitted, then who is Edison to deny such allegations.
It cost Cecilia her marriage to Nicolas Tse, Bobo Chan's planned wedding and some of Gillian Chung's teen appeal.
Now, Edison would have to forgo his entertainment career to do a "searching of his soul". It could have been lost in limbo even before the photos were circulated in the Internet.
It is interesting to view the public reaction to his recent statements. In a survey conducted by Sina, 30% of respondents said he was "sincere and has guts to make such statement", another 30% said he was "pretending to be miserable to gain sympathy", 21% said they will forgive him and continue their support, 9% said he is quitting HK show business to establish himself in Hollywood and 6% said he should be blamed and should not be forgiven. (4000 votes and 3 hours after he released the statement.)
We all make mistakes, if we ask for forgiveness we hope we'll be forgiven and that same thing applies to Edison Chen. Only if he is sincere in his remarks.
Edison Chen is taking some time away from the spotlight of the Hong Kong entertainment industry while admitting in public that he took the photos himself.
"I admit most of the photos being circulated on the internet were taken by me."
I guess almost everyone in Hong Kong (and those closely following the industry)is aware that he is the center of the controversy involving sexually explicit photos with Gillian Chung, Cecilia Cheung and Bobo Chan. If at least one of the women admitted, then who is Edison to deny such allegations.
It cost Cecilia her marriage to Nicolas Tse, Bobo Chan's planned wedding and some of Gillian Chung's teen appeal.
Now, Edison would have to forgo his entertainment career to do a "searching of his soul". It could have been lost in limbo even before the photos were circulated in the Internet.
"I will wholeheartedly fulfill all commitments that I have to take, but after that I'll step away from the Hong Kong entertainment industry. I've decided to do this to give myself an opportunity to heal myself and to search my soul.
"I'll dedicate my time to charity and community work within the next few months. I'll be away from the Hong Kong entertainment industry indefinitely. There's no timeframe."
It is interesting to view the public reaction to his recent statements. In a survey conducted by Sina, 30% of respondents said he was "sincere and has guts to make such statement", another 30% said he was "pretending to be miserable to gain sympathy", 21% said they will forgive him and continue their support, 9% said he is quitting HK show business to establish himself in Hollywood and 6% said he should be blamed and should not be forgiven. (4000 votes and 3 hours after he released the statement.)
We all make mistakes, if we ask for forgiveness we hope we'll be forgiven and that same thing applies to Edison Chen. Only if he is sincere in his remarks.
Thursday, February 21, 2008
Parasitic worms for weight loss
Is this how desperate Hong Kong people with weight problems are now? Whoever thought that ascaris, a type of worm used to lose weight is the way to go must have a twisted mind.
Hong Kong health officials Tuesday warned would-be slimmers not to consume parasitic worms in an attempt to lose weight following adverts for products containing worm eggs.
A health department spokesman said there was no scientific evidence that infestation with ascaris, a parasitic worm which lives in the intestine, was a way to lose weight.
He warned that worm infestations caused pain, vomiting and diarrhoea and could prove difficult to get rid of.
"Ascaris infestation may also be fatal due to serious complications in human bodies such as intestinal, biliary tract or pancreatic duct obstruction. The worms may invade such organs as the lungs," he said.
"The infestation can be treated with medication that kills the parasite. Surgical removal of the worms may be required in case of obstruction."
The health department said it issued the warning following reports that a product containing worm eggs was being promoted as a slimming aid on a commercial website.
Ascaris is the most common worm infection in humans and is mostly found in tropical areas where sanitation and hygiene are poor. Adult worms can grow to more than 30 centimetres (one foot) long.
Hong Kong health officials Tuesday warned would-be slimmers not to consume parasitic worms in an attempt to lose weight following adverts for products containing worm eggs.
A health department spokesman said there was no scientific evidence that infestation with ascaris, a parasitic worm which lives in the intestine, was a way to lose weight.
He warned that worm infestations caused pain, vomiting and diarrhoea and could prove difficult to get rid of.
"Ascaris infestation may also be fatal due to serious complications in human bodies such as intestinal, biliary tract or pancreatic duct obstruction. The worms may invade such organs as the lungs," he said.
"The infestation can be treated with medication that kills the parasite. Surgical removal of the worms may be required in case of obstruction."
The health department said it issued the warning following reports that a product containing worm eggs was being promoted as a slimming aid on a commercial website.
Ascaris is the most common worm infection in humans and is mostly found in tropical areas where sanitation and hygiene are poor. Adult worms can grow to more than 30 centimetres (one foot) long.
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
Edison, Gillian, Bobo, Cecilia controversy: what happened while I was away
The scandal involving Hong Kong's pop and screen idols caused a stir in the territory as well as a spike in visits to my blog. And while I was away for vacation the past week and half, there were developments that obviously took place:
* Edison Chen's job at endorsing EPS, a popular debit card in Hong Kong, has been cut short with TV commercials edited, posters of him relating to the ad was removed from prominent locations of Causeway Bay, Mong Kok and Central. (Sing Tao Daily)
* Manhattan Titanium credit card, also endorsed by Edison, pulled out its own campaign because it lasted only for a month and not because of the naughty photos scandal. (Sing Tao Daily)
* Edison was cut from an upcoming movie Jump, which is a collaboration between Columbia Pictures and Stephen Chow's Star Overseas and moved the movie launch from 1st of May to 1st of October. (Sing Tao Daily)
* The whole scandal could cost Edison 10M dollars of endorsements and work fees for a year. (Sing Tao Daily)
* Sponsors of Edison include Pepsi, Levi's, Jacobs & Co, Samsung and EPS. Sing Tao Daily estimated that the star could demand HK$1m for each endorsement.
* Edison's reputation has recently been boosted by roles in Hollywood films like The Grudge 2 and the new Batman movie, The Dark Knight.
* Sing Tao Daily reported that Edison could demand a HK$400,000 fee for a 20-minute singing performance.
* Cecilia Cheung and Nicolas Tse separated because of the scandal. Nicolas was photographed by Hong Kong media on 9 Feb, removing his wedding ring. The two married in September 2006 in the Philippines.
* Another actor has been questioned regarding another set of naughty photos with Gillian Chung. "Naive Gillian" no more?
* Edison Chen's job at endorsing EPS, a popular debit card in Hong Kong, has been cut short with TV commercials edited, posters of him relating to the ad was removed from prominent locations of Causeway Bay, Mong Kok and Central. (Sing Tao Daily)
* Manhattan Titanium credit card, also endorsed by Edison, pulled out its own campaign because it lasted only for a month and not because of the naughty photos scandal. (Sing Tao Daily)
* Edison was cut from an upcoming movie Jump, which is a collaboration between Columbia Pictures and Stephen Chow's Star Overseas and moved the movie launch from 1st of May to 1st of October. (Sing Tao Daily)
* The whole scandal could cost Edison 10M dollars of endorsements and work fees for a year. (Sing Tao Daily)
* Sponsors of Edison include Pepsi, Levi's, Jacobs & Co, Samsung and EPS. Sing Tao Daily estimated that the star could demand HK$1m for each endorsement.
* Edison's reputation has recently been boosted by roles in Hollywood films like The Grudge 2 and the new Batman movie, The Dark Knight.
* Sing Tao Daily reported that Edison could demand a HK$400,000 fee for a 20-minute singing performance.
* Cecilia Cheung and Nicolas Tse separated because of the scandal. Nicolas was photographed by Hong Kong media on 9 Feb, removing his wedding ring. The two married in September 2006 in the Philippines.
* Another actor has been questioned regarding another set of naughty photos with Gillian Chung. "Naive Gillian" no more?
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
Lydia Shum passes away
It is sad to learn that one of Hong Kong's popular entertainment icons has passed away.Veteran Hong Kong entertainer Lydia Shum died Tuesday aged 60 after a battle with liver cancer, her employer and local media said.
Shum, known for her bouffant hairstyle and wing-tip frame glasses, was one of Hong Kong's most popular actresses and comediennes with a career spanning more than four decades.
I have been watching "Living with Lydia", where she starred during its runs a few years ago. I think she won a regional award for her performance.
Shum had been undergoing medical treatment since being diagnosed with the disease more than a year ago.
But in recent weeks, her health had worsened and she was moved into intensive care at Queen Mary Hospital where she passed away, Hong Kong media reported.
Her 21-year-old daughter Joyce Cheng arrived in the hospital but would not speak to the media.
Leading figures in Hong Hong, including the city's chief executive Donald Tsang, paid tribute to the respected entertainer.
Born in Shanghai in 1947, Shum took up acting as a child in the early 60s and quickly became popular thanks to her high spirit and sense of humour.
She went on to star in more than 70 movies, according to Internet Movie Database, and later hosted numerous variety shows produced by TVB, most notably the popular "Enjoy Yourself Tonight."
The actress is survived by Joyce Cheng and her former husband -- actor and singer Adam Cheng Siu-chow.
Backstreet Boys Live in Hong Kong
The Backstreet Boys will be performing their first ever concert in Hong Kong on the 29th February 2008. AsiaWorld-Expo Hall 6 is the location and tickets will be $780/480 ALL STANDING.
More than a decade has passed since Backstreet Boys hit worldwide fame. Through these years the boys have grown, started their own families, recorded solo projects, appeared on the Broadway stage and, above all, sold more than 1 billion albums worldwide. And now with the release of their sixth album "Unbreakable", Backstreet Boys are back on top form. The album sees the boys' confident return to the pop sounds that audience has grown to love since the group was launched a decade ago. First single "Inconsolable" is a classic mid-tempo ballad which echoes the group's biggest hits and became an instant hit upon its release in September 2007.
Here's a video of Inconsolable:
Conditions (from HK Ticketing)
# Age Limit : 12
# Free Standing at Restricted Price Zone
# Lost Ticket Vouchers will not be issued for the Free Standing Tickets
# To avoid delays in entering the venue and to ensure an enjoyable experience, all ticket purchasers are recommended to pick up their tickets at any HK Ticketing's outlets prior to the show day.
# Smoking is prohibited in AsiaWorld-Expo.
# No outside food and beverage is allowed in AsiaWorld-Expo.
# No food and beverage is allowed at the audience seating/standing areas inside AsiaWorld-Arena.
# Unauthorized PHOTOGRAPHY, FILMING and RECORDING is prohibited in AsiaWorld-Arena
# No umbrella (except foldable one) is allowed in AsiaWorld-Arena.
Tickets were on sale from the 18th January and the ticket purchase hotline is 31 288 288.
More than a decade has passed since Backstreet Boys hit worldwide fame. Through these years the boys have grown, started their own families, recorded solo projects, appeared on the Broadway stage and, above all, sold more than 1 billion albums worldwide. And now with the release of their sixth album "Unbreakable", Backstreet Boys are back on top form. The album sees the boys' confident return to the pop sounds that audience has grown to love since the group was launched a decade ago. First single "Inconsolable" is a classic mid-tempo ballad which echoes the group's biggest hits and became an instant hit upon its release in September 2007.
Here's a video of Inconsolable:
Conditions (from HK Ticketing)
# Age Limit : 12
# Free Standing at Restricted Price Zone
# Lost Ticket Vouchers will not be issued for the Free Standing Tickets
# To avoid delays in entering the venue and to ensure an enjoyable experience, all ticket purchasers are recommended to pick up their tickets at any HK Ticketing's outlets prior to the show day.
# Smoking is prohibited in AsiaWorld-Expo.
# No outside food and beverage is allowed in AsiaWorld-Expo.
# No food and beverage is allowed at the audience seating/standing areas inside AsiaWorld-Arena.
# Unauthorized PHOTOGRAPHY, FILMING and RECORDING is prohibited in AsiaWorld-Arena
# No umbrella (except foldable one) is allowed in AsiaWorld-Arena.
Tickets were on sale from the 18th January and the ticket purchase hotline is 31 288 288.
Monday, February 18, 2008
Harvest is plenty but laborers are few: More priests needed in Hong Kong
I am back in Hong Kong yesterday after a 14 1/2 hour non-stop flight from Los Angeles. For me, the way to beat jet lag is to mimic the timezone of the destination city. I arrived at night time in Hong Kong so I have to ensure I am sleepy when I arrive by skipping sleep in the airplane. I think it works but I am hoping I won't be sleepy at work, especially that I am awake already at 5am.In addition to acute need for nurses in Hong Kong, it seems that the Catholic clergy is also in need of more priests and religious to perform services to an increasing number of faithful. The increased number of parishioners going to church is a good news. But coping with this increase puts strain on those who perform service. And according to the Standard, Hong Kong diocese is the world's busiest.
As a Catholic, I often experience crowding of churches especially on Sunday daytime. It is expected that I will miss finding a seat once I am at the tail end of a queue of church goers at St Joseph's Church. This is perceived that the Catholic church isn't swayed by the negative publicities brought by scandals involving priests elsewhere. But stats don't support this good news in the coming years:
Priests are getting older, with the average age over 60 years, but they are still having to take care of their parishes. In the past seven years the diocese has tried to attract younger blood but only managed to recruit 10 priests, with just four from Hong Kong.
Only ten new priests in the last seven years. Only four Hong Kong priests in the past seven years.
Without priests from outside of HK, it may be impossible to steal Hong Kong diocese's title as the busiest in the world.
Saturday, February 16, 2008
In America: Love Shaq Suns and Maverics game
I was living in a dream when I realized that I will be watching a nationally televised NBA game between Phoenix Suns and Dallas Mavericks. Such dream moved into possibility when my friend Joanne told me she will be working in the US as a nurse in Phoenix. I am a fan of the team since 1993, when the Suns were denied its first NBA title by Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls.
Such dream's realization became certain when I decided I will be coming to Phoenix as part of this first trip to the United States.
And last night, it happened. Phoenix Suns play against Western Conference rivals, Dallas Mavericks in a Valentines Day and coincided with 100th sellout game in US Airways Center.
In the process I had a better glimpse of the city, a good city to live because of its absence of disasters that other cities in the US are more likely to suffer(tornadoes, hurricanes, snow storms, earthquakes and floods) and whose scorching summer remains its bad side, owing to the fact that this is a city built out from the desert. It's chilly in Phoenix at this time of the year but it's a great opportunity to explore the city and its suburbs.
Back to the NBA game, I noticed a few things:
* Paul Westphal, the coach of the Suns during that 1993 trip to the NBA Finals, is currently an assistant coach of the Mavericks. It's a little bizarre to me to see information and stats about him on the walls of the arena when he's siding an opposing team. But I guess that's business.
* The televised version at TNT is about ten seconds behind the real action, and you'll never notice it until you see the live game and have a television screen in front of you (not the screen on the scoreboard).
* The creation of a basketball team in Phoenix created numerous jobs to its residents and from elsewhere: ball boys, cleaning crew, shop staff, dancers, usherettes, cheerers, security and administrative staff. It would be sad if the team decides to close shop in an NBA/WNBA city, which already happened in the past years such as in Vancouver and Kansas City. Hopefully, the Seattle Supersonics won't leave Seattle.
* Fans are so passionate about the team. Just before the game, I noticed a queue to the Suns shop to buy merchandise (caps, jerseys, shirts) although I think price of merchandise in the shop is more expensive than those sold on downtown sports apparel shops. Some have henna paintings on the faces and bring huge posters and when the game is on the line, expect taunts and boos for every move of the Mavs and cheers to the Suns. Even a call on an obvious foul by Raja Bell elicits boos to the referees. I happen to be seated next to a couple (the guy keeps on mimicking the roadrunner sound when Leandro Barbosa is on the line) and college age guys who are probably drunk with beer on hand. In general, the crowd behaved well.
* I wonder where NBA players live in Phoenix. By the nature of their jobs, they don't necessarily have to buy a house here. Because of their huge salaries, they can afford one. Maybe the team houses them in a hotel that sponsors the team. I know a few who owned houses in the city but for others, who think they could be traded almost anytime (Shawn Marion, a Suns player since 1999, just got traded), owning a house in the city they play for may be a luxury.
The Suns won 109-97, and it proved that Kim and I did not jinx the streak of Jorge and Joanne who happen to watch games against the Grizzlies, Kings and Clippers, all on a winning note. I think the Mavs are on another level, but the absence of Josh Howard, Jerry Stackhouse and Devin Harris helped in preserving the winning streak and going home feeling great. Shaq wasn't playing too but it would be a bonus if he did.
I am so grateful for Joanne, Jorge and Kim for such experience. They themselves are big Suns fans. I hope to be back for another game in the future. Only God knows when.
As I prepare my luggage and head back to Hong Kong tomorrow, I am able to say that this trip was very much worth it. Although I covered less cities this time (nine cities in 11 days in Europe last year was a killer), I think we accomplished a lot on the road. And at home in Phoenix.
Thursday, February 07, 2008
In America: Empowering the Filipino
I arrived in Los Angeles 8 hours ago and out of jet lag, I stayed awake at 4am.
It's always good to have friends anywhere because you seem to be welcome almost anywhere you go. Jen's accommodation in Sydney was just a few months ago and now I am in the company of Joanne, our grade school and high school valedictorian, whom I haven't seen in like four years.
Los Angeles airport isn't big as Hong Kong's (or at least how I saw it) but it provided me with an impression that it's indeed a land of opportunities and a place where hardworking people always have the chance to excel and not be judged according to color or language spoken.
In the immigration counter, three of four officers who manned my block are of Filipino origin and even if the one who talked to me didn't give me a hint of being a Filipino (he was straightly into business, which is what I want too), he was fair. He asked questions that I was expecting.
Some of those who assist in the baggage counter are Filipinos too because they communicated with each other in my language. The Filipino language, when spoken everywhere, evokes pride in me being a Filipino. As I headed to the customs, another Filipino welcomed me to the United States as he got my customs card. I am sure there are other kababayans who hold significant positions in the government.
I kind of realized that the United States provides these opportunities to other nationalities that I can't imagine Hong Kong will be able to provide. I can't imagine a Filipino will be allowed to man the immigration counter or patrol the street as a policeman. The Filipino in Hong Kong is most likely stereotyped as domestic helper or driver or a sex worker. This is owing to the fact that most Filipinos have these kind of jobs even if lounge singers, architects, computer programmers and flight attendants have seizable number of Filipinos in Hong Kong.
As I witness my first sunrise in the land of milk and honey, I come to learn more about the life in the United States and how it compares to my life in Hong Kong.
It's always good to have friends anywhere because you seem to be welcome almost anywhere you go. Jen's accommodation in Sydney was just a few months ago and now I am in the company of Joanne, our grade school and high school valedictorian, whom I haven't seen in like four years.
Los Angeles airport isn't big as Hong Kong's (or at least how I saw it) but it provided me with an impression that it's indeed a land of opportunities and a place where hardworking people always have the chance to excel and not be judged according to color or language spoken.
In the immigration counter, three of four officers who manned my block are of Filipino origin and even if the one who talked to me didn't give me a hint of being a Filipino (he was straightly into business, which is what I want too), he was fair. He asked questions that I was expecting.
Some of those who assist in the baggage counter are Filipinos too because they communicated with each other in my language. The Filipino language, when spoken everywhere, evokes pride in me being a Filipino. As I headed to the customs, another Filipino welcomed me to the United States as he got my customs card. I am sure there are other kababayans who hold significant positions in the government.
I kind of realized that the United States provides these opportunities to other nationalities that I can't imagine Hong Kong will be able to provide. I can't imagine a Filipino will be allowed to man the immigration counter or patrol the street as a policeman. The Filipino in Hong Kong is most likely stereotyped as domestic helper or driver or a sex worker. This is owing to the fact that most Filipinos have these kind of jobs even if lounge singers, architects, computer programmers and flight attendants have seizable number of Filipinos in Hong Kong.
As I witness my first sunrise in the land of milk and honey, I come to learn more about the life in the United States and how it compares to my life in Hong Kong.
In America: Universal Studios and Jaya
I spent most of the day at Universal Studios touring the actor studios and enjoying the rides until one of us almost gave up on riding anything similar in the future.
Later we found ourselves walking around Hollywood and take photos on famous landmarks of the city.
In the evening, we had a hearty dinner at Max's at Glendale where we came across Pinay diva Jaya and her mother Elizabeth Ramsey. Both of them were very cordial and were happy to comply with our photo ops.
Will be heading to Las Vegas in the morning today.
Later we found ourselves walking around Hollywood and take photos on famous landmarks of the city.
In the evening, we had a hearty dinner at Max's at Glendale where we came across Pinay diva Jaya and her mother Elizabeth Ramsey. Both of them were very cordial and were happy to comply with our photo ops.
Will be heading to Las Vegas in the morning today.
In America: Spoiled at Sin City
We left Los Angeles yesterday morning, excited to see what Las Vegas has to offer. I felt nothing really special in this city which was built in the middle of nowhere and whose attractions were virtually all man made.
From our car seats, it is easily noticeable that California and Nevada are gifted with wide span of spectacular mountains, with small communities laid out in between the big cities and serve as rest stops for weary travelers.
Las Vegas is a beautiful city. The sight of Luxor, MGM Grand, Wynn and Bellagio is wonderful from the outside. I guess the temperature of this place doubles on day time, but night time revelers could also be gone by the day so it is difficult to find out the numbers.
Wedding chapels litter around the city, and up to this day I am unsure as to why people come here for quick weddings. Is it done for reassurance that nothing on Earth is permanent that marriages too can be torn apart sooner or later?
The outlet shop was just outrageously priced. I couldn't imagine getting that Nike hooded fleece for less than HK$80. Hong Kong is a shopping paradise but the outlet shops in the United States have their own strengths too.
Filipinos still dominate the service sector of this bustling entertainment capital. To start with, the attendant of our hotel (Comfort Inn and Suites) was a Filipina. The musicians who mimic Michael Jackson, Earth Wind and Fire and Pussycat Dolls were Filipinos, and the attendants to the magnificent viewing platforms and cleaners at Stratosphere were Filipinos.
Gambling is continuously thriving, with new buildings being built across the city. Even if Macau has exceeded Las Vegas in a few gambling stats, Las Vegas is a legend and will hardly be removed from its position, at least in the United States.
Fremont Street Experience is a fascinating Las Vegas experience. Shops are all around, performers have their own way of attracting the crowd and the highlight of them all is the rooftop view of shows that is truly a Las Vegas way. Although Joanne did not appreciate the show we saw as much as she did last time around, it's interesting that they keep heads turning up and there is no other ceiling staring experience I can remember (the other one was at Hong Kong Space Museum) of great magnitude.
Las Vegas, like in probably any state in the US, is a land of opportunities. On the way up to the city sight viewing deck, Jose, a native of Mexico warmly greets his elevator visitors by asking them where they are from. But it's strictly business and they leave not enough time to interact with anyone on busy hours of the night.
I hope to meet Ate Jovy, whom I worked with for three years in my first job. I wonder how she feels about this city, which adopted her for more than five years. Two full days of city exploration is still ahead of me, so anything can happen.
From our car seats, it is easily noticeable that California and Nevada are gifted with wide span of spectacular mountains, with small communities laid out in between the big cities and serve as rest stops for weary travelers.
Las Vegas is a beautiful city. The sight of Luxor, MGM Grand, Wynn and Bellagio is wonderful from the outside. I guess the temperature of this place doubles on day time, but night time revelers could also be gone by the day so it is difficult to find out the numbers.
Wedding chapels litter around the city, and up to this day I am unsure as to why people come here for quick weddings. Is it done for reassurance that nothing on Earth is permanent that marriages too can be torn apart sooner or later?
The outlet shop was just outrageously priced. I couldn't imagine getting that Nike hooded fleece for less than HK$80. Hong Kong is a shopping paradise but the outlet shops in the United States have their own strengths too.
Filipinos still dominate the service sector of this bustling entertainment capital. To start with, the attendant of our hotel (Comfort Inn and Suites) was a Filipina. The musicians who mimic Michael Jackson, Earth Wind and Fire and Pussycat Dolls were Filipinos, and the attendants to the magnificent viewing platforms and cleaners at Stratosphere were Filipinos.
Gambling is continuously thriving, with new buildings being built across the city. Even if Macau has exceeded Las Vegas in a few gambling stats, Las Vegas is a legend and will hardly be removed from its position, at least in the United States.
Fremont Street Experience is a fascinating Las Vegas experience. Shops are all around, performers have their own way of attracting the crowd and the highlight of them all is the rooftop view of shows that is truly a Las Vegas way. Although Joanne did not appreciate the show we saw as much as she did last time around, it's interesting that they keep heads turning up and there is no other ceiling staring experience I can remember (the other one was at Hong Kong Space Museum) of great magnitude.
Las Vegas, like in probably any state in the US, is a land of opportunities. On the way up to the city sight viewing deck, Jose, a native of Mexico warmly greets his elevator visitors by asking them where they are from. But it's strictly business and they leave not enough time to interact with anyone on busy hours of the night.
I hope to meet Ate Jovy, whom I worked with for three years in my first job. I wonder how she feels about this city, which adopted her for more than five years. Two full days of city exploration is still ahead of me, so anything can happen.
In America: Leaving Las Vegas for Snowy Grand Canyon
I and the gang left Las Vegas for Phoenix, Arizona.
It was one way to get rid of the bad habit of the usual trip to the casino and win -- only to lose because of the human nature to believe that winning more is much better than winning a few.
We were like nomads so far in this trip, from the short stay in Los Angeles, then two more accommodation locations in Las Vegas. Comfort Inn and Suites are good hotels to drop by: free continental buffet breakfast, clean rooms, free wifi connection. On the other hand, The Flamingo doesn't offer much joys during our stay there.
Most of the day was spent on visiting hotels and taking photos. I also got the chance to ride the Venetian's gondola ride, with Italian tunes sang by our guide Marco.
But en route to the home of the Phoenix Suns, we're now at the Grand Canyon. We arrived at around 10pm and found out that the area has snow patches all around. Only Jorge brought jacket warm enough for the weather. Nonetheless, I am excited to check out this natural wonder and experience a breath taking view of a place I have been awed even at the first sight of it in photo.
I'll have to cut this post short as I need to get some sleep.
It was one way to get rid of the bad habit of the usual trip to the casino and win -- only to lose because of the human nature to believe that winning more is much better than winning a few.
We were like nomads so far in this trip, from the short stay in Los Angeles, then two more accommodation locations in Las Vegas. Comfort Inn and Suites are good hotels to drop by: free continental buffet breakfast, clean rooms, free wifi connection. On the other hand, The Flamingo doesn't offer much joys during our stay there.
Most of the day was spent on visiting hotels and taking photos. I also got the chance to ride the Venetian's gondola ride, with Italian tunes sang by our guide Marco.
But en route to the home of the Phoenix Suns, we're now at the Grand Canyon. We arrived at around 10pm and found out that the area has snow patches all around. Only Jorge brought jacket warm enough for the weather. Nonetheless, I am excited to check out this natural wonder and experience a breath taking view of a place I have been awed even at the first sight of it in photo.
I'll have to cut this post short as I need to get some sleep.
In America: Snowing at the Grand Canyon
We arrived within the vicinity of Grand Canyon at the time when it's filled with snow and the weather couldn't be better if only we have our proper clothing on hand. Nevertheless, the sunshine provided us with great backdrop as we explored some sections of the Grand Canyon. What an awesome creation of God is this view, laid into perfection through millions of years!
There were few tourists in the area, save for a handful of Caucasian, Japanese and Koreans in package tour buses, so we have the views at our own photographic disposal. It's not easy to imagine how such magnificent creation was built in millions of times of a typical human lifetime.
It wasn't long before we embarked on long road trip back to the heart of Arizona, with short stopovers at Snow Bowl at Flagstaff and Sedona, both of which have spectacular natural sceneries which I was expecting to see (last week during an office pecha kucha activity, I inadvertently mentioned the Blue Mountains of Australia pales in comparison to Grand Canyon). In between those pit stops were uninterrupted views of thick snowy fields, pine trees and very few cars and trucks on the road. During those lull moments while staring at those snowfields, a lot of things played around my mind.
I guess like in many other states, the United States has roads that are well connected that it is possible to make an interstate travel through different routes. But the distance between these locations is so long that everyone almost has a car (a necessity and not a luxury in the US). Which brings me to that Green Bean initiative that if each American owns a car, it effectively makes them one of the great polluters of the earth. Public transportation is almost non-existent in many locations that people may need to hitchhike or loan a car.
America is just a huge country with diverse array of attractions but what draws me to come over are the natural ones that are simply breath taking.
By sunset we arrived in Phoenix, my last stop in this 8-day vacation. As I posted an entry about an impending trade between Miami Heat and Phoenix Suns, the deal is sealed and Shaquille O'Neal will be playing for the Suns as Shawn Marion and Marcus Banks will change uniforms. I look forward to watching the game on Valentines Day between the Suns and Dallas Mavericks even if I am uncertain if Shaq will suit up on that game.
Phoenix is a small city, but large enough to accommodate professional sports teams, and nurses from the Philippines, which is why I feel blessed to have my friends work here; I get the chance to visit America and watch the Phoenix Suns games.
There were few tourists in the area, save for a handful of Caucasian, Japanese and Koreans in package tour buses, so we have the views at our own photographic disposal. It's not easy to imagine how such magnificent creation was built in millions of times of a typical human lifetime.
It wasn't long before we embarked on long road trip back to the heart of Arizona, with short stopovers at Snow Bowl at Flagstaff and Sedona, both of which have spectacular natural sceneries which I was expecting to see (last week during an office pecha kucha activity, I inadvertently mentioned the Blue Mountains of Australia pales in comparison to Grand Canyon). In between those pit stops were uninterrupted views of thick snowy fields, pine trees and very few cars and trucks on the road. During those lull moments while staring at those snowfields, a lot of things played around my mind.
I guess like in many other states, the United States has roads that are well connected that it is possible to make an interstate travel through different routes. But the distance between these locations is so long that everyone almost has a car (a necessity and not a luxury in the US). Which brings me to that Green Bean initiative that if each American owns a car, it effectively makes them one of the great polluters of the earth. Public transportation is almost non-existent in many locations that people may need to hitchhike or loan a car.
America is just a huge country with diverse array of attractions but what draws me to come over are the natural ones that are simply breath taking.
By sunset we arrived in Phoenix, my last stop in this 8-day vacation. As I posted an entry about an impending trade between Miami Heat and Phoenix Suns, the deal is sealed and Shaquille O'Neal will be playing for the Suns as Shawn Marion and Marcus Banks will change uniforms. I look forward to watching the game on Valentines Day between the Suns and Dallas Mavericks even if I am uncertain if Shaq will suit up on that game.
Phoenix is a small city, but large enough to accommodate professional sports teams, and nurses from the Philippines, which is why I feel blessed to have my friends work here; I get the chance to visit America and watch the Phoenix Suns games.
In America: Seven years in Hong Kong (even if I am not there)
It's been seven years since I arrived in Hong Kong. To some it meant just another number in the statistics compendium but to me, seven years mean special for one particular reason: permanent resident. I have been wondering all these years why everyone has to wait seven years of stay in Hong Kong to become a permanent resident.
In Singapore, one can apply for PR status within the first two years and in countries like the US, Canada, Australia and parts of Europe, it takes less than five years to obtain one. Why is Hong Kong different? I don't know.
Nevertheless, that HK PR countdown will have to end now.
Since HK permanent residence is not automatically acquired in Hong Kong, I am not called as such until I file it myself and successfully submit all requirements. I was told recently that while in Hong Kong a foreigner like me takes longer time to acquire PR status, it's almost certainly mandatory. Meaning, almost everyone who reaches seven years in Hong Kong will be granted unconditional stay. In Singapore, I was told that applications will be at the mercy of a reviewing immigration officer and if rejected, no one owes the applicant an explanation.
Hopefully I can handle this milestone pretty soon.
Maybe next countdowns will be for wedding (maybe not the next one), birthday, next out of HK travel, etc.
In Singapore, one can apply for PR status within the first two years and in countries like the US, Canada, Australia and parts of Europe, it takes less than five years to obtain one. Why is Hong Kong different? I don't know.
Nevertheless, that HK PR countdown will have to end now.
Since HK permanent residence is not automatically acquired in Hong Kong, I am not called as such until I file it myself and successfully submit all requirements. I was told recently that while in Hong Kong a foreigner like me takes longer time to acquire PR status, it's almost certainly mandatory. Meaning, almost everyone who reaches seven years in Hong Kong will be granted unconditional stay. In Singapore, I was told that applications will be at the mercy of a reviewing immigration officer and if rejected, no one owes the applicant an explanation.
Hopefully I can handle this milestone pretty soon.
Maybe next countdowns will be for wedding (maybe not the next one), birthday, next out of HK travel, etc.
Wednesday, February 06, 2008
Stopping the viral campaign: Edison Chen photo scandal
People have been trying desperately to address curiosity on the Edison Chen photo scandal with constant search on Google, Yahoo!, BT, Flickr, YouTube, Google News, Blogsearch and maybe any other web page that has a search function with [SEARCH] button.
As a rational being, man is in continuous quest for truth. Yes, the truth will set us free, but truth also hurts, reality bites.
A Wikipedia entry on this issue called "Edison Chen photo scandal", started by Raysonho is currently under development.
I've skimmed through some unverified sources about the current sex scandal that rocked Hong Kong and markets closely following the world of Cantopop:
* Edison Chen, currently in the US, released a statement on his blog to react on the situation.
* A sober-looking Edison releasing a statement apologizing to those affected by the incident. Does apology always mean admission of guilt?
* There were reports that Gillian tried to commit suicide.
* There were reports that Nicolas Tse, the husband of Cecilia Cheung, threatened divorce, though this was denied by his father Patrick Tse.
* ESWN provides a translation of a Sing Pao article telling how did it all began.
* The public seemed to pin blame on Edison in a poll with 76% expressing Edison as the culprit while 12% said it should be the ones who uploaded the photos.
* Police and photo experts seem to lean towards confirming that the photos were genuine (my apologies for somewhat concluding that these are products of modern photo editing technologies): shadows in the photo are difficult to doctor; limbs and necks don't appear to belong to different humans pieced together; the low quality of photos may be taken by a mobile phone camera.
* The Hong Kong media has recently listed 14 female celebrities who are allegedly at risk of being 'exposed'. Among them are Elva Hsiao, Jolin Tsai, Maggie Q, Nikki Chow, Rain Li and Rosanne Wong, all of whom have been linked with Edison at some point.
To avoid the risk of this scandal, why flirt with disaster by documenting these sexual acts? Have they learned a thing or two from the subject called Paris Hilton Escapades 101?
As a rational being, man is in continuous quest for truth. Yes, the truth will set us free, but truth also hurts, reality bites.
A Wikipedia entry on this issue called "Edison Chen photo scandal", started by Raysonho is currently under development.
I've skimmed through some unverified sources about the current sex scandal that rocked Hong Kong and markets closely following the world of Cantopop:
* Edison Chen, currently in the US, released a statement on his blog to react on the situation.
* A sober-looking Edison releasing a statement apologizing to those affected by the incident. Does apology always mean admission of guilt?
* There were reports that Gillian tried to commit suicide.
* There were reports that Nicolas Tse, the husband of Cecilia Cheung, threatened divorce, though this was denied by his father Patrick Tse.
* ESWN provides a translation of a Sing Pao article telling how did it all began.
According to an informed source close to the person who was the source of the photographs, several months ago Edison Chen sent his pink Apple Powerbook laptop to a Central computer shop for repairs. The technician made the accidental discovery that there were several hundred photographs and videos of Edison Chen and/pr more than a dozen celebrities/artistes (many of whom were listed by the media and netizens as prime suspects after the first photographs of Gillian Chung, Bobo Chan and Cecilia Cheung appeared), and he downloaded them onto his own computer.
The informed source said that the technician only intended to keep the material for his own enjoyment. Then one day he invited some friends over to his Ma On Shan apartment to play mahjong and he casually mentioned that he had some "good" stuff to show them. When his friends saw the material, they were astonished and lobbied him to post to the Internet. He did not want to do so himself, because he knew that Edison Chen has his contact information. So finally a female friend agreed to undertake the task of posting onto the Internet. That was how it happened.
* The public seemed to pin blame on Edison in a poll with 76% expressing Edison as the culprit while 12% said it should be the ones who uploaded the photos.
* Police and photo experts seem to lean towards confirming that the photos were genuine (my apologies for somewhat concluding that these are products of modern photo editing technologies): shadows in the photo are difficult to doctor; limbs and necks don't appear to belong to different humans pieced together; the low quality of photos may be taken by a mobile phone camera.
* The Hong Kong media has recently listed 14 female celebrities who are allegedly at risk of being 'exposed'. Among them are Elva Hsiao, Jolin Tsai, Maggie Q, Nikki Chow, Rain Li and Rosanne Wong, all of whom have been linked with Edison at some point.
To avoid the risk of this scandal, why flirt with disaster by documenting these sexual acts? Have they learned a thing or two from the subject called Paris Hilton Escapades 101?
Tuesday, February 05, 2008
Hong Kong social networking survey
My site has been inundated with traffic regarding the recent sex photo scandal. I'd like to revisit it for a later time.
Do you use Facebook? Friendster? Xanga? LinkedIn?
If you do, I'd like to ask a favor from you. (In case you'd like to view my Facebook profile, here it is.)
What I'd like to ask from HK readers of this blog is how involved they are in terms of participating these social networking sites and on how do they make use of them.
If you have time, please take the survey by clicking the link below.
Hong Kong Social Networking Survey
Many thanks.
Do you use Facebook? Friendster? Xanga? LinkedIn?
If you do, I'd like to ask a favor from you. (In case you'd like to view my Facebook profile, here it is.)
What I'd like to ask from HK readers of this blog is how involved they are in terms of participating these social networking sites and on how do they make use of them.
If you have time, please take the survey by clicking the link below.
Hong Kong Social Networking Survey
Many thanks.
Monday, February 04, 2008
The Edison, Bobo, Gillian, Joey and Cecilia nude photo scandal: what if it's true?
It's surprising that the sex photos involving popular celebrities in Hong Kong (Edison Chen, Bobo Chan, Gillian Chung and Cecilia Cheung) appeared in the spotlight almost at the same time.
I happen to see one of these photos and it immediately occurred to me that the photos, if real, are old ones based on the appearance of the subjects in the image.
Until one or all of them admit that the photos are authentic, it will not be fair to subject them to trial by publicity. I guess all of them vehemently deny that they were the ones in the photo. They have been supported by friends in the entertainment industry, they have lawyers ready to pounce on any opportunity that could lead to the solution of this scandal. And they are protected by the law.
But as the attempts to kill the issue, another entertainer got involved in the fracas.
The artist involved is singer Joey Yung, whose photo appears in one of Singapore's online paper. It looks like her but I think it's not impossible that a look-a-like is the perpetrator.
They are humans and normally make mistakes but as public personalities similar to politicians, they are bound to adhere to what is morally upright as models of the society, especially for the youth.
But if there is truth to the photos posted, despite denials, this will be a big challenge to the society. Young people look at these celebrities as idols and models. Their movements are carefully monitored that whatever they say could be quoted in many media channels.
We know that some media entities in Hong Kong lean towards earning more money rather than maintain the moral standards of the city. These issues will definitely mean more money through published photos and juicy stories (rumors) that attract the buying public.
Hong Kong has its shares of public scandals.
Recently, news about a government official that went to China to meet a mistress, or a Democratic party member whose wife is seeing another man are circulating on the web.
But this sex photo scandal swamped them all. Nobody might ever think the ever adorable Gillian Chung would ever do such thing as shown in the photo with Edison Chen. But the question is that if it were true:
* Gillian might lose her endorsements in say, Hong Kong Disneyland, and countless other products
* Record sales on Twins CDs would drop
* Ironically, her movies could take a hit due to the fact that people would even be more interested in her
These consequences could apply to the rest of those involved. Overall, it paints a bad picture in the world of Cantopop and Hong Kong movies, that used to boast the presence of Jackie Chan, Leslie Cheung and Anita Mui (among the three, only Chan is alive).
I talked to a friend, a local Chinese, and she laments on the situation. Obviously, we'd expect everyone to say this is a bad situation and nobody benefits out of it except the few.
We can blame technology in one aspect, but if these scandals are results of carelessness and irresponsible act made by these artists, respect will disappear.
I hope the truth will come out soon.
I happen to see one of these photos and it immediately occurred to me that the photos, if real, are old ones based on the appearance of the subjects in the image.
Until one or all of them admit that the photos are authentic, it will not be fair to subject them to trial by publicity. I guess all of them vehemently deny that they were the ones in the photo. They have been supported by friends in the entertainment industry, they have lawyers ready to pounce on any opportunity that could lead to the solution of this scandal. And they are protected by the law.
But as the attempts to kill the issue, another entertainer got involved in the fracas.
The artist involved is singer Joey Yung, whose photo appears in one of Singapore's online paper. It looks like her but I think it's not impossible that a look-a-like is the perpetrator.
They are humans and normally make mistakes but as public personalities similar to politicians, they are bound to adhere to what is morally upright as models of the society, especially for the youth.
But if there is truth to the photos posted, despite denials, this will be a big challenge to the society. Young people look at these celebrities as idols and models. Their movements are carefully monitored that whatever they say could be quoted in many media channels.
We know that some media entities in Hong Kong lean towards earning more money rather than maintain the moral standards of the city. These issues will definitely mean more money through published photos and juicy stories (rumors) that attract the buying public.
Hong Kong has its shares of public scandals.
Recently, news about a government official that went to China to meet a mistress, or a Democratic party member whose wife is seeing another man are circulating on the web.
But this sex photo scandal swamped them all. Nobody might ever think the ever adorable Gillian Chung would ever do such thing as shown in the photo with Edison Chen. But the question is that if it were true:
* Gillian might lose her endorsements in say, Hong Kong Disneyland, and countless other products
* Record sales on Twins CDs would drop
* Ironically, her movies could take a hit due to the fact that people would even be more interested in her
These consequences could apply to the rest of those involved. Overall, it paints a bad picture in the world of Cantopop and Hong Kong movies, that used to boast the presence of Jackie Chan, Leslie Cheung and Anita Mui (among the three, only Chan is alive).
I talked to a friend, a local Chinese, and she laments on the situation. Obviously, we'd expect everyone to say this is a bad situation and nobody benefits out of it except the few.
We can blame technology in one aspect, but if these scandals are results of carelessness and irresponsible act made by these artists, respect will disappear.
I hope the truth will come out soon.
Sunday, February 03, 2008
Cold weather streak at 10 days and running
The cold weather that gripped Hong Kong has extended its run to 11 days as of today. I went to hear the earliest mass at St Joseph church at 7am but while waiting for the bus at 6:30am it was surprisingly dark.
The last time Hong Kong was affected by persistent cold weather was in 2004 when the cold weather warning was issued for 8.5 days.
Meteorologists blamed the weather on the winter monsoon and moist air from the south causing low temperatures and rain, and warned that more cold days were expected over the coming Chinese New Year holiday which begins on Thursday February 7.
I was told that traditionally when Chinese New Year approaches, the weather is usually chilly and the feeling of winter is best felt. I was complaining last year that winter was warm and may disappear in a few decades.
Weather forecast shows improvement in the next few days just before I head for a vacation.
The last time Hong Kong was affected by persistent cold weather was in 2004 when the cold weather warning was issued for 8.5 days.
Meteorologists blamed the weather on the winter monsoon and moist air from the south causing low temperatures and rain, and warned that more cold days were expected over the coming Chinese New Year holiday which begins on Thursday February 7.
I was told that traditionally when Chinese New Year approaches, the weather is usually chilly and the feeling of winter is best felt. I was complaining last year that winter was warm and may disappear in a few decades.
Weather forecast shows improvement in the next few days just before I head for a vacation.
Saturday, February 02, 2008
Cecilia, Edison, Bobo and Gillian nude and sex photos: be aware of the law
People, stop fantasizing over digitally-enhanced photos. It's just distasteful and doesn't serve justice to the profession of the involved artists. If they were adult movie stars, people won't be interested but since they project a generally good public image and serve as models of today's youth, their private lives have become very interesting.
Thanks or no thanks to modern technology, Hong Kong artists are getting publicity (or unwanted publicity) using such technologies. Hong Kong paparazzi becomes an old method to capture these celebrities' private lives. Now these actors and actresses are made to wear a mask of their own faces on someone else's body. That's the power of a gifted graphic artist with a twisted mind.
But what about if the photos are for real? I stopped by a magazine stall last night and looked at the front cover of a local gossip magazine. What I saw was realistic but maybe because the fuzzy factor deceives the eye and portrays the photo to be done on a mobile phone camera which produces low quality images and is therefore more difficult to doctor.
On the case of the artists, they have sought the help of authorities to curb this activity.
In a statement to the press, EEG said: "Our company has found some criminal activity on the internet. Someone has used digital alteration to create distasteful photographs of our company's artist, Gillian Chung. As this is a serious matter, our company is currently investigating the source of these photographs and the identity of the person who released them.
Edison's lawyers released a statement saying: "Our law firm has been instructed by Mr Edison Chen, in light of the publication of some distasteful photographs on the internet, to make this announcement on behalf of him to condemn strongly this irresponsible behavior. We reserve all legal rights and will pursue these against anyone who distributes or publishes this material."
At the time of writing, the photos were still available on the Internet through a simple search using a search engine. There are rumors on internet discussion boards that the person who released the photos will soon release a full video. But with the recent arrests, I doubt this is going to happen.
But what can the police do to prevent the spread of these photos? There may be people who can be arrested:
But everyone who has a PC and connected to the web can easily share these materials. Look at the music industry, there is no way to prevent people from sharing music or videos that the recording industry has to adjust to this fact of life.
But let's also look at another angle to this saga. What if we allow the photos spread and let the public judge? I know it's less popular because the public includes the kids and youth who look highly at these artists but do we also think that the more we suppress the society of the truth, the more it tries to seek such truth? I haven't looked at the photos yet and I have no plan to do so.
I noticed that most of the curious ones who are interested in the topic are from Singapore, Malaysia and Canada where Chinese fans are in touch with these popular celebrities. That is based on the web logs recorded for my blog. But I am sure the Hong Kong crowd is also very interested and are being referred to the Traditional Chinese web pages instead of this blog.
Local media and internet discussion boards have been debating whether or not the images are fakes, with some using old photographs of the stars in question to highlight body features and old images of Edison's home to highlight furniture features, to argue their case in a game of "spot the difference" or "spot the similarity".
Publishing obscene articles on the Internet is an offense under the Control of Obscene and Indecent Articles Ordinance. This includes the act of reposting the obscene articles or Internet hyperlinking of obscene articles, whether for profit or otherwise. Anyone convicted of this offense is liable to a fine of $1 million and three years in prison.
Anyone who received the nude photos should delete the images immediately, and report their publication to the Police.
Does this news reveal that we have a sick and immature society in Hong Kong, paying attention to the unimportant things while on the other hand whining about stress and inability to cope with other things to do in daily life? It's not for me to answer.
But I have one stand on this case. Leave those people on their own. Just because you watched their movies or bought their CDs doesn't mean you have to get into their private lives.
Thanks or no thanks to modern technology, Hong Kong artists are getting publicity (or unwanted publicity) using such technologies. Hong Kong paparazzi becomes an old method to capture these celebrities' private lives. Now these actors and actresses are made to wear a mask of their own faces on someone else's body. That's the power of a gifted graphic artist with a twisted mind.
But what about if the photos are for real? I stopped by a magazine stall last night and looked at the front cover of a local gossip magazine. What I saw was realistic but maybe because the fuzzy factor deceives the eye and portrays the photo to be done on a mobile phone camera which produces low quality images and is therefore more difficult to doctor.
On the case of the artists, they have sought the help of authorities to curb this activity.
In a statement to the press, EEG said: "Our company has found some criminal activity on the internet. Someone has used digital alteration to create distasteful photographs of our company's artist, Gillian Chung. As this is a serious matter, our company is currently investigating the source of these photographs and the identity of the person who released them.
Edison's lawyers released a statement saying: "Our law firm has been instructed by Mr Edison Chen, in light of the publication of some distasteful photographs on the internet, to make this announcement on behalf of him to condemn strongly this irresponsible behavior. We reserve all legal rights and will pursue these against anyone who distributes or publishes this material."
At the time of writing, the photos were still available on the Internet through a simple search using a search engine. There are rumors on internet discussion boards that the person who released the photos will soon release a full video. But with the recent arrests, I doubt this is going to happen.
But what can the police do to prevent the spread of these photos? There may be people who can be arrested:
A jobless man has been charged over the online publication of obscene photos depicting what appear to be local entertainers Gillian Chung, Edison Chen, Bobo Chan and Cecilia Cheung.
Aged about 30, he was arrested in the New Territories yesterday and 12 obscene photos were found on his computer, some of which had been published online.
But everyone who has a PC and connected to the web can easily share these materials. Look at the music industry, there is no way to prevent people from sharing music or videos that the recording industry has to adjust to this fact of life.
But let's also look at another angle to this saga. What if we allow the photos spread and let the public judge? I know it's less popular because the public includes the kids and youth who look highly at these artists but do we also think that the more we suppress the society of the truth, the more it tries to seek such truth? I haven't looked at the photos yet and I have no plan to do so.
I noticed that most of the curious ones who are interested in the topic are from Singapore, Malaysia and Canada where Chinese fans are in touch with these popular celebrities. That is based on the web logs recorded for my blog. But I am sure the Hong Kong crowd is also very interested and are being referred to the Traditional Chinese web pages instead of this blog.
Local media and internet discussion boards have been debating whether or not the images are fakes, with some using old photographs of the stars in question to highlight body features and old images of Edison's home to highlight furniture features, to argue their case in a game of "spot the difference" or "spot the similarity".
Publishing obscene articles on the Internet is an offense under the Control of Obscene and Indecent Articles Ordinance. This includes the act of reposting the obscene articles or Internet hyperlinking of obscene articles, whether for profit or otherwise. Anyone convicted of this offense is liable to a fine of $1 million and three years in prison.
Anyone who received the nude photos should delete the images immediately, and report their publication to the Police.
Does this news reveal that we have a sick and immature society in Hong Kong, paying attention to the unimportant things while on the other hand whining about stress and inability to cope with other things to do in daily life? It's not for me to answer.
But I have one stand on this case. Leave those people on their own. Just because you watched their movies or bought their CDs doesn't mean you have to get into their private lives.
Ritz-Carlton closes down
The demand for office space in Hong Kong appears unabated that buildings not envisioned to be office spaces have to give way to this insatiable demand. And not only the old ones are subjected to such practice. Even young buildings are not spared.Take Hong Kong's Ritz-Carlton hotel for example. This short-lived hotel closes its doors today after just 14 years of service.
Majority owner Lai Sun Development Co. will raze the 216-room hotel and convert the site in the center of the business district as office rental rates rise to records. On Feb. 16, the hotel will auction about 250 items, including antique ballroom chandeliers from HK$3,000 ($384) each, an 18th-century gilt-framed mirror for HK$9,000, and a century-old, stained-glass screen for HK$100,000.
A mark of Hong Kong's constant evolution is that a 14-year-old building can elicit such nostalgia. Elsewhere, conservationists are struggling to save older structures as the effects of China's economic expansion flow over into the city, driving up wealth and land prices.
To help land reclamation in the business district, the government in April closed Queen's Pier, landing site for British governors during colonial rule and Queen Elizabeth II in 1975. The colonial-era Central Police Station, closed in 2006, may be saved by demolishing part of the rambling complex to transform the buildings into an arts hub, under a controversial HK$1.8 billion proposal from the Hong Kong Jockey Club.
The Ritz-Carlton isn't the city's first downtown hotel to meet the wrecking ball. One traffic-snarled concrete piazza away, Li Ka-shing's office building Cheung Kong Center replaced the old Hilton Hotel, demolished in 1994. Former neighbor Furama Kempinski was torn down in 2001 to make way for the AIG Tower.
I just think that's how quick money can move mountains in Hong Kong. If you are rich, you feel like you can rearrange Hong Kong as if it's made up of Lego blocks.
The Ritz-Carlton sits on one of Hong Kong's most valuable business sites, hence its fate, said Simon Lo, a director at Collier International (Hong Kong) Ltd. Hong Kong has the world's second-most-expensive prime business district rentals, behind London's West End, according to Collier.
Competition from newer, larger hotels has also taken its toll. The Ritz-Carlton has about half as many rooms as five-star rivals such as the Four Seasons, opened in 2005, making it less viable to run, said Cheung. Lai Sun paid about HK$1.3 billion for the building and site more than a decade ago.
Occupancy rates at the Ritz-Carlton have averaged 86 percent since it opened on August 1993. The hotel, rated the best business hotel in Hong Kong by Travel and Leisure Magazine in 2003, has a staff of 340, including Chef Umberto Bombana. Many will work at the chain's other hotels, said Lettenbichler.
In Hong Kong, the Ritz-Carlton will reopen in 2009 in West Kowloon, across the harbor, taking the top 15 floors of the International Commerce Center. The 118-story building is being built by Sun Hung Kai Properties Ltd., the city's largest developer.
Friday, February 01, 2008
Gillian Chung sex photos: paying the price of technology
With advanced technology, personal privacy has now been compromised. Mobile phones extended their use from just phones that can be used anywhere (with signal coverage) to phones that take pictures, send e-mails and record videos. With their compact size, these devices become good tools for people with rotten minds to make fun, fantasize and perhaps earn at the expense of other people's (mostly celebrities) reputation.It's not surprising that many Hong Kong magazines craved for news like this because these news sell. Just last few days ago Hong Kong Headline, a free Chinese newspaper featured Gillian Chung in huge photo and on the other side Edison Chen, and made me wonder what business do they have to be in that headline. Did Gillian slap Edison? Did Edison propose to Gillian? (It's in Chinese so I was just guessing. Behind the Chinese characters lay the answers)
But it turned out to be something that happened quite similar to a news in the past: Photos of Gillian Chung and Edison Chen naked in bed. I haven't seen the pictures myself but I don't think it's necessary. I know a little about the life of Hong Kong celebrities.
Police in Hong Kong said Thursday they had arrested a suspect in connection with bogus pictures of prominent pop stars placed onto internet sites. The pictures - reproduced on the front pages of Chinese-language newspapers - included video shots apparently showing singer Gillian Chung and singer and actor Edison Chen naked on a bed together.
The images were quickly removed from the site, but copies quickly circulated through email and were reposted to some 400 other Websites.
A day later more appeared. These seem to show Chen receiving oral sex from television actress Bobo Chan and others with Chen and Chung in different positions. Still others apparently showing award-winning movie actress Cecilia Cheung at Chen's apartment have slowly been released on various Internet forums in the following days.
Apart from phones that offer multiple functions. The good technology about photo editing brought relief to our designers in the office but other freaks misused them and served something controversial. Edited faces of anyone plastered on any random naked image. Such acts must be punished severely although I think heavy punishments won't deter others from continuing as much as death penalty for drug traffickers did not eradicate the rogue business.
Separately, doctored pictures of Chung's head pasted onto the semi-naked body of another woman were posted online and widely picked up by the city's mass-market newspapers.
The management company for Edison Chen was also reportedly seeking legal advice over the bogus image which a spokesman for the company described as being "more likely a joke in bad taste."
Gillian Chung was embroiled in a controversy in 2006 when a magazine published sneakily-taken photographers of her changing clothes backstage at a concert in Malaysia. After the recent sex photo/video controversy I was joking to an officemate that Gillian may need good feng shui to avoid such thing from happening again.
A rumour in the Hong Kong tabloid newspapers and internet discussion boards is that all the photos were hacked from Edison's PC.
Local media and internet discussion boards have been debating whether or not the images are fakes, with some using old photographs of the stars in question to highlight body features and old images of Edison's home to highlight furniture features, to argue their case in a game of "spot the difference" or "spot the similarity".
A series of obscene photographs that appeared online seemingly featuring various local celebrities has sent shock waves through the Hong Kong entertainment industry.
The incident has political ramifications too. As Police have issued warnings that distribution of such photographs is likely to be in breach of the Control of Obscene and Indecent Articles Ordinance, which could carry a jail sentence and heavy fines, operators of Websites and Forums have moved quickly to delete pictures. But many sites have engaged in blatant self censorship and removed any discussion of the incident. That of course has got the free-speech brigade riled. "Nothing is allowed to be discussed, whatever happened to freedom of speech? When did Hong Kong become China?," one forum user asked.
China recently made a crackdown on pornography but over the border in China distribution of the photos is spreading like wildfire, despite a recent SARFT initiative to crack down on Online obscenity. A file purportedly containing all the photos is reported to be being downloaded at the rate of 10,000 times a minute.
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