A Hot Lingerie: January 2009

Saturday, January 31, 2009

Black Is The New Gold

If Gay is the new Black.
Does that make Balck the new gold?
Does everyone want one?
The GOP's first Black leader (Michael Steele) might be proof of the "Obama Effect".

Go to WalMart.
Buy two 3 gallon gas cans.

Buy an inexpensive 1 litre bottle of ;
vodka
rum
gin
triple sec
and three litres of sweet and sour.
Pour all contents into clean gas can and shake.

Long Island Tea
1-fill an ice filled glass with some contents of gas can
2-top with coke
3-and a wedge of lemon

Tokyo Tea
1-Repeat step one above
2-top with slash of 7up
3-top with Midori
4-and add a wedge of lemon

Georgia Tea
follow directions for Tokyo Tea only substituting Peach Schnapps for the Midori

Strong Island Tea
follow directions for the Long Island Tea
Add a splash of Bacardi 151

Cosmo
Use the other gas can.
Fill with;
1 litre of inexpensive vodka
1 litre of triple sec
3 litres of cranberry juice
1 small bottle of Rose's lime juice.
Shake and serve.

Get drunk.
Enjoy the game.

I'm Not Preaching

"Who da hell r u preaching 2? Them? Or, Us?" (Comment left on a previous post)

I'm not preaching to anyone.
That's why I'll "Allow" any comment that is not directed at any individual who has commented earlier.
It's a discussion - not a lecture.
It's a disagreement - not a fight.
It's the free exchange of ideas that is geared towards gaining a better understanding.
Since no one is smarter than everyone - we are all supposed to learn from each other.

But who is "Them"?
And who is "US"?
This is why I don't understand (the well intended) comments like;
"It not mattering you equates to being on the high road"
Why?
Is having a sense (and the ability to have such a sense) of a moral responsibility to treat each other with respect and dignity inherent only to whites?
Are Blacks only seen as victims and not equal allies in the fight between good and evil?

This is why I can't buy into the whole Tim Wise/ White Guilt malady.
White Guilt assumes a sense of superiority and condescension that feels the need to exercise itself by helping "those poor and uneducated - and thus helpless - non-whites"

Are whites solely capable of making a positive,meaningful and lasting change?
Nope.
We can all make some type of positive change in our families, schools, neighborhoods and communities.

But does this mean that I am against any type of alliance with those (who may be of another race, nationality or ethnicity) who also wish to make such a change?
Nope.
Forming alliances is the most efficacious way of bringing about these changes.
But working "with" someone is different than working "for" someone.
We need to bring more to the table besides complaints.

If we take the Steelers or a unit in the Marines as an example.
Past losses don't matter. (But the lessons from those losses do matter.)
Race doesn't matter.
Being competent is what matters.
Accomplishing a common goal is what matters.

So, if we put our differences aside and acknowledge that our fate may be in the hands of the men and women next to us - what are our common enemies or goals?

Education?
I'd say, yes.
But how do we ensure that everyone has a fair shot at attaining the highest levels?

Jobs/Employment?
Having a good education (the average high school diploma only ensures an eighth grade education) is usually the key to getting a better job and developing the skills needed to keep one.

Health Care?
Sure.
But many of the problems associated with high health care costs could be eliminated by changes in lifestyle or environment
For many, having a better education would allow them to gain the tools necessary to make such changes.

Crime?
Since the inability to read is the most common trait of those in prison - again, a good education is the key.

So how do we best educate our children?
Knowing facts is not as important as knowing how and when to apply these facts.
Understanding, and being able to properly interpret, these facts is what matters.

In short - Let's be The Shit.
If we become The Shit - we'll have the social, financial and mental facilities to solve these problems.
If we become The Shit - we'll ( and when I say "we" - I mean anyone who works for equal justice and equal opportunity) be in a better position to dictate terms instead of having to beg for concessions.

The Queen's English

There is no such thing as "Talking White".
Do you mean with a Texas Twang?
Or a Southern drawl?
Or like you're from Jersey or New Yawk?
Like a Valley Girl (or Dude)?
Do you mean like your from a trailer park?
Or Appalachia?
Or the Cajun pigeon of Southern Louisiana?

I used to watch King of the Hill.
Before moving to Texas, I thought Boomhower was just speaking gibberish.
But after being here for more than ten years - I understand every word the guy says.
It's just that I've become more familiar with the dialect.

There is no such thing as "Talking White".
It's just Standard American English.
We might be able to call it a media accent.
Or a corporate accent.
Actors and newscasters are often sent to speech coaches to scrub them of their regional accents when the move to the national market.
Why?
Because it's just easier to communicate.
It eliminates the distraction of the listener having to ask; "What?".

It's not the Queen's English either.
The Queen speaks British English.
The common practice of pretentious people, who over-articulate ev-er-y syllable, is just an affectation of intelligence.
No one naturally speaks that way.

A Northern California educator asked if I thought an ESL class to correct Ebonics was a viable option.
Another respected blogger told me that such a class would be seen as condescending.
But how do we eliminate the dialect from anything other than casual conversation?
Unless you're an athlete or entertainer - Ebonics seem to serve little purpose.

Blacks Have Lower IQs ?

Or so says Slate;

http://www.slate.com/id/2178122/entry/2178123/

The article states that the differences in Standard American IQ tests is genetic.

Average IQ

Jewish American - 113

Asian American - 106

White American - 103

Latino American - 89

African American - 85

But the author also states;

"Remember, these are averages, and all groups overlap. You can't determine an individuals intelligence from her ethnicity.

The only thing that you can reasonably infer is that anyone who presumes to rate your IQ based on the color of your skin is probably dumber than you are"

But the evidence is contradictory.

Slate also notes environmental and cultural variables.

http://www.slate.com/id/2178122/entry/2178124/

The article asks;

"Why do Blacks in the white-dominated United States score 15 points higher than Blacks in Black-dominated African countries?"

But even this statement seems a bit skewed.

An article in Black Enterprise cites data showing African immigrants having a rate of those holding a bachelors degree or higher that is up to 33% higher than the American average.

According to the Slate article, the lowest IQ averages in the United States show up in the South, where the rate of genetic blending is lowest.

But what do IQ tests measure?

Are they culturally biased?

If the tests were given based on criteria for survival based on a different culture and environment - would the results vary?

Symposium of the Genetics of Early Language Development

By using the acquisition of language (both lexical and syntax) as a measuring tool, researchers noted that genetics had little impact on a child's ability to acquire nouns.

Since verbs have an inherent syntax - the tests yielded different results.

Genetics were shown to have a 35% variance in a child's ability to properly use verbs and in their ability to properly form sentences.

Environment was shown to have minimal impact on vocabulary - but a greater impact on grammar.

The American Journal of Human Genetics

(Diversity of Some Genetic Frequencies in European and Asian Population v. Steep Multi locus Clines)

States;

"Genetic divergences tend to be maximized between populations that are separated by physical factors (mountain ranges and seas) but also separated by cultural barriers (different language affiliation).

This suggests that mating isolation, rather than adaptive response to environmental change, accounts for spatially abrupt genetic change at the loci studied and that cultural differences associated with language contribute to isolating populations."

Are many of us limiting our ability to process language (and lowering our scores on Standard American IQ tests) by holding on to a dialect that may no longer be in our best interests? (i.e. - Using code words or phrases to protect against masters knowing what slaves were talking about.)

Is the inability to associate a word's spelling with the way many pronounce words a hindrance to a child's ability to read, write and learn?

Since studies show a correlation between illiteracy and the prison population (According to the Department of Justice - 67% of all in prison and 80% of violent criminals) - are we creating a new generation of felons by making it harder for children to learn to read and write phonetically?

Journal of Cognitive Neuroscience

(University of Pennsylvania Study)

The study is looking into the effects of poverty in it's relationship to low IQ and brain function. The study is also looking into the effects of stress, pollution and nutrition.

Since the poor tend to more often be obese due to poor diet - diabetes is more common.

A University of Alberta in Canada study is looking at the relationship between brain function and diabetes. The study noted that executive function (complex analytical thinking) and speed of processing were hurt by the presence of diabetes.

So, is poverty causing many to have lower IQs?

Or is a low IQ the reason many are in poverty?

Non- Conclusive

If the procedure for measuring IQ is culturally biased towards those more familiar with the WASP ideal - how do we (Blacks) best make the adjustments to prove a more accurate measurement?

Many would argue that exposure is the key.

Maybe two year olds should be watching CNN instead of BET.

Since more people of color are now reporting the news - maybe being able to use Standard American English won't be seen as "Talking White".

Many argue that schools are to blame.

But as the results of the Pay-For-Grades experiment have shown - a change in motivation was the key (not a change in schools or environment).

We've tried free lunch.

Then we added free breakfast.

Now we have free after-school tutoring.

And since education is the foundation of a better future - how do we best educate the masses?

"Kung Fu Panda" Game Wins @ 36th Annual "Annie Awards"...

Click images to enlarge...

DreamWorks Animation was the big winner at the 36th Annual "Annie Awards" January 30 @ UCLA's Royce Hall in Los Angeles.

"Kung Fu Panda" received 13 'Annies' including Best Animated Feature and nine Individual Achievement awards for Animated Effects (Li-Ming Lawrence Lee), Character Animation (James Baxter), Character Design (Nico Marlet), Directing (John Stevenson & Mark Osborne), Music (Hans Zimmer & John Powell), Production Design (Tang Heng), Storyboarding (Jen Yuh Nelson), Voice Acting (Dustin Hoffman), and Writing (Jonathan Aibel & Glenn Berger).

The balance of DreamWorks' wins went to its TV production of "Secrets of the Furious Five" for Character Animation (Pierre Perifel), Character Design (Nico Marlet), and Production Design (Tang Heng).

"Kung Fu Panda" also received the Best Animated Video Game produced by Activision.

Best Animated Short Subject went to Aardman Animations Ltd. for "Wallace & Gromit: A Matter of Loaf and Death"; Duck Studios won Best Animated Television Commercial for United Airlines "Heart"; Best Animated TV Production went to ShadowMachine's "Robot Chicken: Star Wars Episode II"; and Best Animated TV Production for Children went to Nickelodeon's "Avatar: The Last Airbender".

The evening included the presentation of the Winsor McCay award to three industry leaders - Nick Park, Mike Judge and John Lasseter. The award is named after the prolific animator and stands as one of the highest tributes given to an individual in the animation industry in recognition for career contributions to the art of animation.

Actor/comedian Billy Crystal presented John Lasseter with his 'Winsor McCay'.

Tom Kenny, the voice of "SpongeBob SquarePants" handled hosting duties again this year and was joined on stage by a lively mix of animation luminaries, celebrity presenters and comedic talent including June Foray, actors Brad Garrett ("Ratatouille", "Till Death"), Seth Green ("Austin Powers", "Robot Chicken"), James Hong ("Kung Fu Panda", "Blade Runner"), Donald Faison ("Scrubs"), Ben Burtt ("Wall-E"), Henry Selick (Director, "Coraline", "The Nightmare Before Christmas") and a video presentation by Cheech & Chong.

Founded in 1972 by voice artist June Foray, the Annie Awards are often a predictor of the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature, honouring overall excellence as well as individual achievement in a total of 24 categories ranging from production design, character animation, effects animation to storyboarding, writing, music and voice acting...

I Am Back! Miss Me?

Hello people!

I am back again after being away for one week holiday. Do you miss me? Ok Ok. I know you do. Ahhww... Don't be shy. Just admit it. Haha.. Come. Get a red packet (ang pao) from me.

*giving a red packet to you*

Lol.

Wait a minute. I can feel that I am acting a little out of the ordinary. This isn't sound like me. I guess I am too tired for not having good sleep in these few nights. I had been playing a lot with my cousins and friends since the very first day I reached my hometown. My schedule was packed with party, house visiting and gatherings and they have made my Chinese New Year wonderful.

How I wish I can stay longer in Penang.
Sigh...

A few latest photos from Kek Lok Si, Penang. We had been there yesterday and it was the most amazing moment for me. Why? I am not telling you till the next post.. ;)

So, stay tune.

Gong Xi Fatt Chai!!!
^_^

CC's Personal Style - TAG!

CC has been tagged by the wonderful Chloe of Heart-Shaped Morning with the following Interview… So fun!
Describe your personal style.
My style is sophisticated and edgy. In my 20s, I was a lawyer and dressed quite conservatively. During that time, I stocked up on necessities like Donna Karan suits and durable handbags and shoes that would stand the test of time. I pride myself on luxe, timeless accessories like Pedro Garcia* satin peep toes and vintage Gucci Jackie bags. *Gray sandals at left available at net-a-porter.com.

Now, in my 30s, I am, ironically, a tad more adventurous in how I dress. I love millinery and adore throwing on a fabulous

feathered cap with any old outfit. I live in skinny pants and boy blazers. For dress-up, I favor micro mini dresses and fabulous patterned or American Apparel Latex tights. I almost always don high heels, even though I’m 5’10”… I love to be super tall!

What are the staples in your wardrobe?
- Loeffler Randall flat boots - that’s CC on the left wearing said footwear; my sis is on the right.
- Amazing heels by Pierre Hardy, Jean-Michel Cazabat, Dolce & Gabbana, Moschino and Prada

- Ultra-dark rinse jeans: skinny, straight, and boot cut – currently loving Superfine!
- Backless tops & dresses by Rachel Pally (dress at right available at shopbop.com)
- Fabulous lingerie by Elle Macpherson, I.D. Sarrieri and Kiki de Montparnasse [kikidm.com image at left]
- Bags by Fendi, Sissi Rossi, Rodo, Botkier & Calvin Klein

- Extra long tanks from Old Navy

- Boyshorts and waffle tees from Forever 21

- Stockingirl tights
- Hanky Panky low-rise thongs
- Newsboy caps from Urban Outfitters and Target
- Smythe, Wyeth, Ya-Ya and LaROK blazers

What's your signature look?
Rarely am I seen in public [in cooler months, anyway] wearing something other than high-heeled boots, J Brand skinnies, a fabulous patterned tunic or T-Bags dress, and an ultra-fitted blazer. Add a handbag by Botkier or Luella, fingerless gloves and a fab fedora and I’m good to go!

What inspires you?
Art; poetry; magazine ads and editorials; my Fellow Fashionistas [at left: Nina Ricci SS09 as rendered in watercolor by Artist Emily of EmilySoEnchanted]; my niece Teagan (who is only 3 but has an amazing sense of style!); and gorgeous, well-dressed models like Natasha Poly (pictured at top of post courtesy Fellow Fashionista Fashion Moment – link below!).

Who is your fashion muse?

There are quite a few: Chloe Sevigny, Kate Moss (below, via topshop.com), Sienna Miller, and the Olsens.

Favorite purchase of all time?

Brian Atwood jeweled brown suede d’Orsay peep toe pumps... They are unique, timeless, glamorous and shockingly comfortable!

Biggest splurge?

A St. John black knit military coat with gold buttons and a self-belt. Goes with anything and has been an integral part of CC's wardrobe for 10+ years now!

What's your beauty routine?

A bit of blush and bronzer and a little mascara; I curl my lashes with a heated eyelash curler – just blast it with the blow dryer for 8-10 seconds and the curl is so much better and more lasting! When I want to get really dolled up, I do a fun shadow like this luscious periwinkle at Valentino Couture (via style.com).

What jewelry do you never take off?

My gold first-finger ring, given to me by my sister, and a heavy gold chain link bracelet from Ross-Simons.

What are you wishing for?
1) In terms of world peace and all that: for the U.S. (nay, global!) economy to get a major booster shot.
2) CC wants shopbop.com to do their EXTRA20 off sale purchases!
3) Personally, am hoping to ace my GREs and get into Columbia’s Journalism Ph.D. program!

What are your obsessions?

- Facebook; yes, CC was a myspace girl until a few days ago!

- 80% cocoa dark chocolate

- avocados
- American Apparel jersey scarves
- Elle Décor magazine (house at right via pointclickhome.com)
- Tie-dye, acidwash, neon Ray-Bans and various other horrid 80s trends that I swore I’d never revisit! CC just ordered this Torn by

Ronny Kobo dress, 70% off at shopbop.com.
- Crate & Barrel beds – CC is redecorating and just fell in love with this pewter canopy!
- Starbucks vanilla powder … Why don’t they sell this stuff by the jar anymore? It’s more rare than sevruga!

- Clip-in hair extensions by Hair-Do (yes, the Ken Paves and Jessica Simpson line - they are fabulous!)

- organic baby blueberries
- Anything Balmain (studded blazer at net-a-porter.com)

CC is tagging the following Fellow Fashionistas whose style, wit

and intelligence are among the best in the blogosphere. Enjoy the Interview and pass it on to several Fellow Fashionistas, darlings!
Fashion Moment
Anika of African Tea Party
Frankie of Swell Vintage
Janet of Janetteria
And anyone else who is interested!

Enjoy, darlings!

xoxox,

Friday, January 30, 2009

Unforgettable Journey

Unforgettable journey.  
Yes.

A real unforgettable journey which I'll never forget. Last night, my friends and I had been to Kek Lok Si, a famous tourist spot in Penang. The temple is beautiful with lights, latern, flowers and other decorations. Making plan spontaneously with the people who I love spending time with is so wonderful. Although the moment was short, my friends and I enjoyed every bits of the adventerous journey.  Photos of us will be available once I reach home. Surprise surprise! I'm now on my way back to my curry house. Wanting to visit Ipoh. Anyone is in Ipoh right now? Haha.. Hope that the traffic is clear.