Davide Rebellin

The UCI has announced that veteran Italian classics specialist Davide Rebellin will be stripped of the silver medal he scored in the road race at the 2008 Olympic Games after testing positive for the blood-booster CERA. Read more here.

By Velonews.com

China has become a tourist attraction. Everywhere you go, there is something new to see and do.  I learned recently that Disneyland is going to build a theme park near Shanghai.

We have visited the Great Wall several times over the years.  The areas of the Great Wall that we have been to are an hour or so out of Beijing. The most popular site is at Badaling.  The second choice, Mutianyu, is more dramatic. Since we have visited the Badaling section before, we decided to see Mutianyu in September 2008. It was worth it. This portion of the Great Wall runs along the ridge of a mountain range. Badaling, meanwhile, is in a mountain pass and there is a steep climb on the wall to reach the higher altitudes.

The best way to reach these sections of the Great Wall is by taxi or bus. After you get there, you will discover the usual tourist shops before you reach the wall. Since I enjoy looking for the rare find and love to haggle, I always spend time checking out this area.

At Badaling, there were real camels and horses you could pay a fee to sit on while having your picture taken.

 Once you reach Mutianyu, you have a choice to make—take a few hours to climb the mountain or ride a ski lift to the Great Wall in fifteen minutes. Getting back down is easy. Take the toboggan seen during the 2008 Beijing Olympics on network TV.

I’m sure that during Mao’s time as the leader of China, most Chinese would have never imagined what was about to happen.  China is changing fast. Every year, we return and discover new things.

On our way back, we stopped at a factory where we learned about the manufacturing techniques for brass vases decorated with a colorful porcelain coating and hand painted figures.  I bought a set of three small vases. They are yellow with a blue trim.  One has a blue dragon on it, the second a phoenix beside a chariot, and the third has running horses.  Since they are sitting on a bookshelf behind me, I’ve been spinning around to make sure I described them right. Each one is about the size of my hand.

 The Great Wall at Mutianyu

In the 2008 Beijing Olympics Team GB surpassed all expectations and achieved its target for the London 2012 games of fourth in the medals table.

As a result of that success expectations are now higher than ever and the team now faces the tough challenge of maintaining its excellent standards.

Everyone from the Government, the press and the general public, are hoping GB can consolidate its position by not only defending its current titles but by also winning new ones.

This however, can not be achieved if organisers of London 2012 omit some of the team’s strongest events, in which they triumphed last summer, from the schedule.

In excluding such cycling events as the individual pursuit, the points race and the madison from the Games, organisers are jeopardising the levels of success Team GB can reach.

Bradley Wiggins and Mark Cavendish racing in the Madison

Cutting events out of the veledrome, from where GB won the majority of its medals in Beijing, is the last place organisers should look if they want to save cash.

On the track GB has an abundance of talent and it would be a great shame for it all to go to waste.

Geraint Thomas, who won a 2008 Beijing Olympics team pursuit gold, won the 4000m individual pursuit at the national championships with a time of 4mins 18.418secs in Manchester at the weekend.

Talking about the omission of the individual pursuit he said:

“Obviously it’s not good news for us because it just leaves two events for us. But there’s nothing we can do about it. We can only do the races that they put up for us so it’s disappointing.”

Organisers are constantly talking about creating a legacy and getting more people into sport, yet they risk shooting themselves in both feet if they prevent athletes from inspiring youngsters by winning in their strongest events.

If savings need to be made then they should certainly not come from the veledrome.

That’s over 5,000 dogs a day who get strangled, burned, electrocuted or beaten to death for their meat

The South Korean government has accepted Animal Protection Laws which make animal torture illegal, but those laws have never been properly enforced in the country. The dog meat industry continues to thrive and the officials are reluctant and indifferent to ban it.

Although forbidden to advertise themselves on main streets or in English, over 6,000 restaurants today serve dog meat in South Korea. And they don’t get closed down.

Oh, sorry, except during the 1988 Seoul Olympics and 2002 FIFA Cup when dog meat restaurants were forced to shut down temporarily in fear of bad impressions of South Korea.

Sign Petition:  http://uniteddogs.com/stopkillingdogs #stopkillingdogs

Sign Petition:  http://uniteddogs.com/stopkillingdogs #stopkillingdogs

Sadly this behavior is true in much of Asia.  And just like in Korea, China also stopped serving dog and cat meat just long enough to appease the International Olympic Committee…

And not only is eating domesticated animals repugnant, but the way they are killed and treated before hand is inexcusable!!  Please sign the petition!!

Ask Marion - Just One More Pet

Related Posts:

• Dog Meat in Beijing Ordered Off Menu for Olympics
• Olympic Clean-up Chinese Style: Beijings Shocking Cat Death Camps
• Cat in China Grows A Pair of Wings
• Government Money Used To BuildMonkeyless Exhibit Instead of Saving Rescued Abandoned…
• California: Protest Governor’s Plan to Cut Shelter Funding!
• Acupuncture for Pets
• 25% of Wild Mammal Species are Imperiled

Hello-Hello and Happy Holiday Weekend if you are celebrating!

Frequent readers will not be surprised to hear we are careening from crisis to crisis, coping with all things Princess, many things Lilly, and a new thing from Ralph. Seriously.

Remember the Ralph Lauren Team USA Opening Ceremony Uniforms from last summer’s Olympics?

We have an announcement on next year’s uniforms, direct from the Polo Mother Ship.  A hint can be gleaned from the sketches below.

Courtesy Polo Ralph Lauren

Yes, just in time for the patriotic holiday weekend, there is word that Polo Ralph Lauren is an Official Outfitter of the US Olympic and Paralympic Teams for the 2010 and 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.  Below, a Men’s look.

Courtesy Polo Ralph Lauren

In addition to uniforms for Opening and Closing Ceremonies, the company will also create apparel and accessories for Team USA to wear in the Athletes Village and other venues.  As far as the look itself goes, here is a snippet from the news release:

“Celebrating the rich history of the Olympic Games with a nod to the Lake Placid Games of 1932, the clothing will showcase a classic Americana and patriotic palette of red, white and blue.”

Pieces from both teams’ Parade Outfit collections will be available for purchase, along with other styles.  It will be fun to watch both Collections develop!

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As a segueway, we go to a story somewhat related to the uniforms story, we’re talking Wimbledon, where Polo Ralph Lauren is also the Official Apparel Sponsor. Oddly, it doesn’t feel like it is time for the Wimbledon Finals, but here they are: Venus vs. Serena and Roger vs. Andy in the Singles Finals.

It has been awhile since we talked about Mr. Roddick and his apparel sponsor, Lacoste. Well, we did chat up Lacoste no end in our ‘When Logos Attack’ post yesterday, but that was different. Below, Mr. Roddick at an earlier practice this week, sporting the Lacoste Logo tee.

PHOTO: Alastair Grant/AP

Pssst – the tee is now only $34.99, the original price was $50.

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In the spirit of the weekend, we close with this bow tie from one of our favorite gentlemen, Mister Mort, in collaboration with Baron von Fancy. Spotted by the ever-vigilant fashion guys at Men’s Style, it is even Made in the USA.

Courtesy Photo via Men's Style

The patriotic style statement is supposed to be available at Steven Alan, (where we must say, they are having a fabulous sale) and Opening Ceremony.  We did not see the tie, but did stumble onto a pink and green bag we simply had to share!

Courtesy Opening Ceremony

The handbag is from Issey Miyake’s new line, cauliflower, the bag showcases the pleating style this house is known for (think ‘Pleats Please’) and it looks darling. Best of all, the bag is on sale for $57!

Smiles and hopes for a Happy Fourth!

Shawn Johnson and dance partner Mark Ballas celebrating her victory. (Photo courtesy of AP)

 Maybe they should rename Dancing with the Stars after last night’s winner Shawn Johnson was awarded the coveted mirror ball trophy.

She is the third US Olympic Gold Medalist to win the prize, and rightfully so. Olympic athletes are the best in the world and know what it means to motivate and dedicate themselves to training hard and molding their bodies into top shape, much like professional dancers. They are so dedicated to success that their stamina is unparalleled. Shawn is only 17 years old and is also the youngest contestant to ever win Dancing with the Stars in its eight-season run.

Other past Olympians to win the show include Olympic figure skater Kristi Yamaguchi in season 6 and Olympic speed skater Apolo Anton Ohno in season 4. 

Kristi winning her mirror ball trophy, also with partner Mark Ballas. (Photo courtesy of pinkponders.com)

Apolo and dance partner Julianne Hough, beaming with pride. (Photo courtesy of Yahoo TV)

As the year ends, sports viewership continues to rise. With classic moments such as:

-Basketball Rivals Boston Celtics and Los Angeles Lakers Go Head-to-Head
-New York Giants Stomp Unbeaten New England Patriots in the Superbowl
-Nadal Defeats Federer in Five Sets
-Michael Phelps Drowns Swimmers with 8 Medals

Green Bay Packers Sports Fan

Who wouldn’t have wanted to watch male-testosterone, competition based events with sweat, anger and adrenaline? Your significant other you say…? Well, if you missed out on 2008’s greatest moments, you may want to make sure the love of your life is ready for 2009. You sacrificed enough if you missed ANY of the above mentions. Do not let yourself get trapped into the ballet, babysitting or watching chick flicks like Mean Girls.

Follow the steps below and you just might catch some action on the tube…Or live if you’re lucky. Hell, you may even get to go to a Superbowl party early next year if you take this matter seriously.

Barter with Her:
You’re always forced into doing things with her, why can’t she reciprocate? Tighten your belt and voice your thoughts. Spend an evening with her going shopping so she can spend a day with you watching a game. If that doesn’t work, beg to do housework.

Keep Her Comfortable:
If bartering was tough, chances are she’s going to need a lot of time to warm up to the concept of competition. This isn’t drama to see which girl can outdo the other in b*tch@$ness, this is the result of gladiators hard at work. For her first few viewings, make sure you’re in a quiet setting so her ears aren’t pounding from raging drunken men at bars. Allow her to chill and learn the game – Yes, this means you have to explain it to her. Not ideal, but at least she’s open to it now.

Remind Her It’s Quality Time:
Whether you’re watching the game or getting pedicures, in the end it’s quality time that matters. Assure her that you’re not just into the game (even if you are) and that you would like the best of both worlds…As would she.

Watch Eye Candy Sports:
Let’s face it, women love fantasizing about men just as much as we love wet dreams of XXX models – The only difference is their fantasies are more likely to happen. Ask your significant other who she’s fond of and watch that athlete’s games. David Beckham? Tom Brady? Kobe Bryant? Let her watch him as you watch the rest of them. She may be watching for a completely different reason, but hey, at least she’s shut up and allowing you to do your thing.

Develop Emotional Ties:
Did she go to a college with a good athletics program? Is she passionate about her hometown or residential city? Let her get attached to the teams so she wants to watch them play.

Play with Her:
Toss the ball around and teach her the skills needed to play the game. She just may understand what its all about and join in the fun. She might even become your cheerleader for when you play pick up games.

Buy Her Gear:
Be sure to buy her team attire. It’s a whole different ball game for a fan when they’re representing a team. Buy her a cute jersey, sweatshirt or better yet a thong with her favorite team’s logo. Who knows what the excitement could lead to…

Good luck and Happy New Year in advance!

–
Skrybe – Keep it Fly

Michael Phelps

Michael Fred Phelps (born June 30, 1985) is an American swimmer. He has won 14 career Olympic gold medals, the most by any Olympian. As of 2008[update], he also holds seven world records in swimming.

Phelps holds the record for the most gold medals won at a single Olympics with the eight golds he won at the 2008 Olympic Games. With this record, he surpassed American Mark Spitz, who was also a swimmer and had held the previous gold medal total with the seven that he won at the 1972 Munich Olympic Games.

Overall, Phelps has won 16 Olympic medals: six gold and two bronze at Athens in 2004, and eight gold at Beijing in 2008. In winning these medals, he has twice equaled Soviet gymnast Alexander Dityatin’s record of eight medals (of any type) at a single Olympics; Dityatin garnered eight at the 1980 Summer Olampics, while Phelps won eight medals at both the 2004 Summer Olympics and the 2008 Summer Olympics. Out of his eight gold medals from Beijing, five were won in individual events, tying the record for individual gold medals at a single Games originally set by Eric Heiden in the 1980 Winter Olympics and equaled by Vitaly Scherbo at the 1992 Summer Games. Phelps ranks second in total career Olympic medals, after Soviet gymnast Larissa Latynina, who won a total of 18 medals (nine gold) spanning three Olympic Games.

Phelps’s international titles, along with his various world records, have resulted in him being awarded the World Swimmer of the Year Award in 2003, 2004, 2006, 2007 and 2008 and American Swimmer of the Year Award in 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2006, 2007 and 2008. Phelps has won a total of 48 career medals thus far: 40 gold, six silvers and two bronze. This includes all of the Championships in which he has competed: The Olympics, the World Championships, and the Pan Pacific Championships. In 2008 Phelps won Sports Illustrated magazine “Sportsman of the Year” award.

Hello-Hello!

If there is anyone on your Christmas or Hanukkah list entranced by superstar Michael Phelps, you face no shortage of gift options.  The Olympic Gold Medalist has been named Sports Illustrated Sportsman of the Year; the magazine makes an ideal stocking stuffer.  (BTW, if you are wondering what the athlete is holding on the SI cover, it is his Armani dinner jacket.  His soaking wet, dripping, drenched dinner jacket.)

PHOTO: Courtesy SI

Below, a photo of Mr. Phelps with his swimming coach Bob Bowman, his mother Debbie and sister Hilary at the SI Sportsman of the Year dinner.

PHOTO: Stephen Lovekin/Getty Images for Sports Illustrated

As an update, Michael’s mother continues her partnership with Chico’s; the Debbie Phelps Collection is still prominently featured on the retailer’s website, although the number of items in the collection seems diminished compared to previous levels.

The Olympic superstar’s new book “No Limits: The Will to Succeed” is out this Tuesday, an ideal gift for any Phelps Phans in your household.

PHOTO: Publishing

And Mr. Phelps is among those featured by GQ (Gentleman’s Quarterly) in their Men of the Year special issue.

PHOTO: GQ/Gentleman's Quarterly

Many preps will notice the star still wears his Lacoste Trucker hat, including this trip to visit children at New York’s Beth Israel Hospital on Tuesday.  Most will also recognize the distinctive scarf, although we don’t believe Mr. Phelps has an endorsement arrangement with Burberry as he does with Lacoste.

PHOTO: Stephen Lovekin/Getty Images for Sports Illustrated

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Also in men’s fashion news, word today which firm President Elect Obama has selected to design his formalwear for the Inauguration. Chicago-based Hart Schaffner Marx is working on his custom-made tuxedo for the Inaugural balls.  Apparently Mr. Obama has not purchased a new tuxedo in fifteen years. We doubt this will be the only addition to the formal apparel hanging in his new walk-in.

Courtesy Hart Schaffner Marx

The President’s tuxedo will be a one-button notch-lapel style, it is being made by union employees, and the basic model retails for $895.  One can look at all the particulars here on the Hart Schaffner Marx site; it is also available at Nordstrom.  But what if extreme cold hits the nation’s Capitol?  According to a story in WWD…

“Homi Patel, president, chairman and chief executive officer of parent Hartmarx Corp. said he is working with the President-elect’s staff to determine whether Obama will wear a suit with a topcoat to the inauguration ceremony.”

In the interest of full disclosure, we must acknowledge some favoritism toward the brand as the Princess Consort is quite fond of his suits from this retailer.

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Two of our delightful readers share comments on their vastly differing experiences with J. Crew following their recent website meltdown.  Miss La Belette Rouge, who first alerted us to the technical problems J. Crew was experiencing, tells us:

“I went to Jcrew yesterday and they adjusted my purchases and gave me the extra 20% off of the things I bought on black friday.”

While the always-wonderful Very Busy Mom with 4 says:

“I am having shipping issues with JCrew–they still have not sent out my stuff. I called and she made the comment that I put in the order on Nov.28 and and that was a Friday and there were no shipments Saturday or Sunday. So I asked about why it was not sent Monday,Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday…. She said it would be out today–it better be
Sorry I am still fuming…..”

Clearly J. Crew needs to make things right with all customers deliteriously impacted by the site malfunction.  This is likely to take a substantial cash investment.  As we shared in this post, the company has already spent more than $1,000,000 on “customer accommodations…. and appeasement” following this summer’s technical problems.

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An early Christmas gift for Gossip Girl fans: Variety reports a spinoff of the über-hit series is in the works.

“…. sources say a televised “Gossip Girl” spinoff would not be “The It Girl,” nor would it focus on the character of Jenny Humphrey (the character spun off from the “Gossip Girl” books for “The It Girl”), played on TV by Taylor Momsen.“

The story also notes the spinoff is likely to focus on one of nine primary characters from the show now on the air.

Ho-Ho-Ho!

Hello-Hello and Happy Friday!

Both TP and TSU (the Spousal Unit, aka The Princess Consort) are due at a relatively high-profile volunteer/charitable function tonight, so we are going to be speedy.

By far the nicest part of opening the Preppy Princess store is meeting so many warm and wonderful people online, many of them through this goofy blog.  One of our newer friends is the way-too-cool Miss Cassoulet Cafe, and not just because she has bestowed upon us the Superior Scribbler award! Oh my! Her extraordinary stories and writing skills make it a must for TP and we are guessing you will enjoy stopping by as well.

Merci, La Cassoulet Cafe

Although Miss Cassoulet is a wonderful read, we were a little concerned by her comment following our post, A Tiffany Christmas, as it indicates she may believe us to be possessed of a fashionable perspective.  A stylish eye. An on-trend outlook.

We don’t know how to break the news that TP is not only deficient in this arena, some consider her staid (translated: bore-ing), challenged (translated: puh-thetic) and much too preppy (translated: apparel & accessories so bright they glow in the dark) style to be more than a little challenged.  So the young and chic set must pop over to Miss Cassoulet’s Cafe and advise her on the boots.

Now, there are Award Rules attached to this lovely event:

• Each Superior Scribbler must in turn pass The Award on to 5 Bloggy Friends.
• Each Superior Scribbler must link to the author & the name of the blog from whom he/she has received The Award.
• Each Superior Scribbler must display The Award on his/her blog, and link to This Post, which explains The Award.
• Each Blogger who wins The Superior Scribbler Award must visit this post and add his/her name to the Mr. Linky List. That way, we’ll be able to keep up-to-date on everyone who receives This Prestigious Honor!
• Each Superior Scribbler must post these rules on his/her blog

Here are six fabulous blogs we always look forward to reading, places we think you will enjoy visiting:

• Lipstick at the Mailbox is an outstanding writer, with perspective we always appreciate;
• Landlocked Mermaid shares wisdom, recipes and more when she isn’t doing her incredible commute!
• We are always ready for a Piece of Coconut Cake, especially when it is the sugar-free, lo-cal and high-fun version provided by Miss Coco.
• Witty, erudite and lots of fun describe Misadventures of a Newlywed, and she has started selling some more-than-fun goodies online!
• Tickled Pink and Green is forever brightening our day with her preppy style tips and great reading list;
• From tutus to the tooth fairy, Momx2 shares snippets of life we love to read.

Merci beaucoup Miss Cassoulet!

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Whatever you do, don’t forget to leave a comment on something for which you are grateful so you are entered in the Great Giveaway! That’s all it takes to be entered to win *very* cool prizes from the Preppy Princess shop, like the Perfect Circle Apron with matching gloves, and a set of our Trey’s Stripes notecards, that will be personalized just for you!

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Has everyone heard who People’s Sexiest Man in the Galaxy is?

Courtesy People Magazine

What you may not have know about yet is People’s special scratch ‘n sniff version of the annual issue. The always-sharp Dylan Stableford at Folio Magazine asks:

“Ever wonder what Michael Phelps smells like?”

In his story about People’s scented pages he tells us:

“The magazine, which hits newsstands on Friday, includes a section dubbed “Sexy Scents” with “scratch-n-sniff” photos of Gossip Girl actor Chace Crawford Ed Westwick, film actor Taye Diggs, Law & Order star Chris Meloni and U.S. Olympic Team swimmer Michael Phelps—each of whom “describe the fragrance that makes them feel their sexiest.”

Even allowing for a rather rugged week, Mr. Westwick’s ’scentiments’ on ‘essential oils’ are simply beyond our grasp. BTW, Mr. Phelps ranks in the Top 10.

PHOTO: Lance Staedler/People Magazine

If you would like to read more without us spoiling things, just click here.

NOTE: Mr. Stableford’s story refers to Chace Crawford, however, we *think* he means Ed Westwick who is prominently featured in the photos on People’s site. We are double-checking this, if anyone knows definitively, please let us know!

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Please forgive us as we make an executive decision: we are revisiting our distaste for discussing or mentioning the “M word” here at the Palace. It appears the financial markets aren’t going to be self-correcting, or be corrected by outside influences for that matter, at least not in the near future. Therefore we acknowledge we have to adjust our standards and display a little more flexibility in our perspective when dealing with this issue. Indeed.

So here is an item related to one’s bank balance: this story in yesterday’s Journal discloses that despite recent interest cuts, many of the credit card companies are charging users higher rates and increased fees. From the story:

“Banks had already been tightening the screws on people with less-than-perfect credit in recent months. Now, even customers who pay their bills on time will find it more expensive to carry a balance.”

While we are extremely grateful this is not an issue for us at this point in time, we are simply staggered that the same companies who just escaped closer regulatory scrutiny and penalties are now back to their old habits.  TP recognizes that for many in these trying times; their MonsterCard is not being used for luxuries, but for life’s necessities like food, medicine, gasoline.

“The bank will also start charging a new $10 monthly service fee to some cardholders who have been carrying large balances for at least two years, while raising their monthly minimum payments…”

Are we deranged? Or is this what the companies should be doing? And remember, TP is a capitalist with a capital ‘C’, we are not opposed to growing companies and profits, but there is also a principle of ethics involved here.

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For today’s Pretty in Pink we share information on the Lilly Pulitzer anniversary contest.  The Jubilee Jet Setter contest looks like loads of fun, and the Perfectly Pink passport is too cute.

Also recently added to the oh-so-improved Lilly website, the two 50th Anniversary Jubilee prints.  In both Bananarama…

Lilly Pulitzer Bananarama

… as well as Lagoon Blooms…

Lilly Pulitzer Lagoon Blooms

…something is hidden.  As explained on the company’s website

“We have added 50th and/or JUBILEE in every print. Just like you ‘look for the Lilly’ in every print, these JUBILEE Prints will be selling on ebay in 50 years as THE Lilly prints to have.”

Oh.  Actually, we did not toddle over to our local Lilly recently hoping to purchase something we could use, save, and sell on eBay. Honestly.

Oh well, that doesn’t detract from all the the fun things we *did* see at Lilly!

Happy weekend!

]]> http://whsword.wordpress.com/2008/11/03/editor-vs-editor-2008-beijing-olympics/ Mon, 03 Nov 2008 00:29:56 +0000 whsword http://whsword.wordpress.com/2008/11/03/editor-vs-editor-2008-beijing-olympics/

Each month, Jenn and Chitha have the task of figuring out what goes in the paper and how they want to present it.  Usually they agree, but occasionally, they need to battle ti out.  In this new segment of the Windermere Word, the two editors will go head to head trying to figure out the whole story behind controversial issues.  They would like to proudly present to you…

EDITOR VS. EDITOR
Topic of the Month: The 2008 Beijing Olympics

J: So Chitha, did you watch the Olympics?
C: No, it’s not my thing.
J: Really? Me neither – never have time to follow it. Why don’t you watch it?
C: I just don’t see the purpose of it. It’s just a huge thing that’s lost its meaning.
J: Well, I think the Olympics are great because they give countries a chance to show off their athletes. Some athletes train all their lives just to get five minutes of fame. But look at Michael Phelps – holy smokes.

C: That’s true but some countries just have more money to train their athletes. For example the US invests hundreds of millions of dollars in their athletes each year. Other countries like Canada don’t spend nearly as much. That’s why you see such a different in the overall rankings. And Michael Phelps got more coverage than anything else, and now it’s all about who’s going to get to be his sponsor. It’s all about making money.
J: Okay, so what do you think about China spending $43 billion on their opening and closing ceremonies?
C: What?! They spent $43 billion!?
J: Yup! Like it was nothing.
C: Well I’d have to say that it was pretty ostentatious. But now the bar’s been raised way up high and BC has the pressure to compete.
J: That’s the problem. We shouldn’t be focusing on who can spend the most money. Think about what we could do with $43 billion. That’s forty-three thousand millions! There is so much we could do with that amount of money. So many issues we could tackle.
C: I agree with you completely. What do you have in mind?
J: Take our biggest visible problem – the homeless. There’s been a lot of media coverage lately over the fact that we have so many homeless people sleeping on the streets, and that it won’t look good in 2010. Isn’t it kind of funny that we only pay attentio to it now because people are going to be come and see it? I say we take $43 billion maybe even a few measly million, and put it towards housing for those people.
C: I couldn’t have said that better. How can countries spend so much on two different ceremonies when there’s so many other better ways tos pend it? Most of the debts in the world could be paid off simply by that $43 billion. But remember that the $43 billion was just on the ceremonies. Who knows how much more was spent on the whole Summer Games? And the thing is that the host country doesn’t usually stick to the promises they make to fix local issues.
J: What else is new? You know there was a story in the news that the Chinese government found a way to keep back crimals who were meant to be released during and before the Summer Olympics? They also found a way to kill off most of the stray cats on the streets to make it look cleaner. They claimed that they were diseased. Well, if this is the case, then i wouldn’t be surprised if the homeless started dying because of some disease or if they got put in homes as far away as possible.
C: It’s crazy what countries do to cover up their blemishes. We should be the one to show others that we’re not going to turn our backs on our problems and try to hide it from the word. The other thing that China did is that they banned media sources like BBC, Amnesty International, and different pro-human rights organizations.
J: What? Why? Why the media censorship? That’s not allowed!
C: Exactly. Very close to the beginning of the Olympics, it was all over the news that this was happening, but as soon as the opening ceremony took place and blew everyone away, people forgot about it. Then most of the bans lifted, because they didn’t have to keep up their perfect image anymore. The Olympics were over.
J: That’s not right.
C: And that’s not the only thing – in accepting the responsibility of hosting the Olympics, China stated that they would go after improving their standards of human rights. But instead of improving, they just got worse.
J: Can you give me an example?
C: Ye Guozhu was sentenced to four years imprisonment for speaking out against the Chinese government who was going ahead and seizing houses to demolish so that they could make way to build new buildings for the Summer Games. Instead of being released on time (July 26), he was held until at least October.
J: All for the Olympics.
C: All for the Olympics.
J: Oh and you know what really irks me, Chitha? The fact taht the media spent so much attention on the games, the sponsorship, the money involved, the fancy stuff, but they forgot all about those poor people in Tibet. I mean honestly. They hire cute little innocent looking girls to represent the face of China, but the impression they’re giving me is tha they don’t care at all about the minority.
C: Jenn, I think we’re going to run out of space if you don’t stop right now.
J: I don’t care, this has to be said. Anyway, as I was saying – I’m not trying to be anti-Chinese, as most people are labeling it these days. For goodness sakes, I AM Chinese. But amidst all this fuss over the Olympics – China hasn’t set a very good example on how to deal with their problems. I say Canada can do better. I just hop ethat by the time 2010 rolls along, I won’t be taking these words back.
C: I hope so too. Well folks, that’s all we have for this edition. If you have anything you would like to comment on or have a suggestion for next month’s “Editor VS. Editor” segment, please let us know at WHS_WORD@YAHOO.CA as soon as possible. Or comment us here.

Michael “The Fish” Phelps is surely the biggest star of the 2008 Beijing Olympics.

And we are so delighted to get to talk with Michael this coming Tuesday… in person!

Yes yes! We are attending the 70th Anniversary Celebration of Bowlmor Lanes and we couln’t be more thrilled.

Keep your eyes peeled to MICAHJESSE.COM!

During the month of August I wrote a series of posts covering and questioning the controversy that shrouded the Olympic Sport of Taekwondo.

I, as a good amateur writer and self-proclaimed journalist, have tried to remain as objective as possible in my writings.

The sport of Taekwondo has been embedded in controversy for decades, but as this world modernizes and as the internet revolutionizes communication, it is very hard to keep the skeletons of politics and misdeeds kept hidden in the closet.

Very few athletes have had the courage to go up against injustices. My husband and former team member for the Peruvian National Taekwondo team, Jean Carlos Gamarra, once a Top 20 World Ranked Athlete in Taekwondo’s Fin weight category, was one of those who went against the grain and even his own masters to speak out against corruption that was occurring inside the Federation. It wasn’t easy, maybe it was even dangerous back at the time, but in the end he still remains a respected athlete (although maybe forgotten by his country) in the national Taekwondo circles.

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It’s not rare to see high profile athletes take up their grievences with their respective NGBs (National Governing Bodies.) Two USA Taekwondo athletes did just that leading up to the Beijing Olympics, both of them female.

I’ve posted previously about Nia Abdallah being discarded from contigency for a spot on the Olympic Team, in what seems to have been a politically and commercially motivated qualifying match. Nia and her family spoke out against what they felt was unfair, even posting home video of the match which was removed several times from the internet for “copyright infringement.” (This is a favorite of the NGB)

Another athlete, who seems to have had much worse public treatment, was long time USA Taekwondo team member Mandy Meloon. If you’ve been practicing Taekwondo for a while, then Mandy Meloon is a household name in U.S. and even in International Taekwondo. Mandy, frustrated, brought her grievence before USA Taekwondo to resolve claims of misconduct by the Senior National Team Coach, Jean Lopez.

Unfortunately, in Mandy’s case, things went very sour and name calling and accusations were traded between the sides. In her own reflection, she admits that she could have dealt with it differently, but imagine what state of mind you would have been in if you felt betrayed by an institution that you grew up in? To Mandy’s credit it must have felt like her whole world had been taken from under her feet by an NGB that she dedicated her life and Taekwondo career to.

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I always believe that there are two sides to every story, but the evidence doesn’t lie. Evidence may be misconstrued to fit one’s interpretation of it, but the court of popular opinion is what counts in the end, like it or not.

While it was very hard for me to find information previously to support Mandy’s case, I’ve been fortunate enough to have become Internet and I’d like to think Taekwondo buddies with Mandy Meloon. Mandy has a blog with more supporting information. Hopefully it won’t be removed before you, the reader, get a chance to evaluate it for yourself, but it speaks a ton about what happened behind closed doors.

So, while I have been publicly critical of the Lopez Clan (related & unrelated), I won’t stop questioning the evidence and the circumstances, and in the spirit of writing objectively, I welcome open debate and I invite the opposition to make their case.

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Sports in general is always going to be mired in politics and scandal. Heck, if you work in an office or have worked in an office before then you know that politics and scandal exist in any institution!

I can say that I was certainly dissillusioned with USA Taekwondo’s make-over. Having married an athlete who dealt with his own NGB’s dirty politics, we were ethused at the idea of USA Taekwondo opening up its doors to more U.S. Athletes and even paving the way to create a broader pool of talent.

My husband, who is very well qualified and certified expressed his interest in participating by applying to USA Taekwondo’s open bid calls, but we quickly learned that inner circles remained inner circles and only the superficies of USA Taekwondo had really changed. As the French saying goes “C’est la vie,” (Such is life.)

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Personally, I think the lasting impression is a consistent theme of inequality, especially towards female athletes in the case of USA Taekwondo. Who was the fourth team member and female athlete to participate in the 2008 Beijing Olympics? She seems to have been overshadowed.

I am also very disappointed to see the Lopez family and USA TKD further making a negative impression by disputing the WTF’s Olympic decision. As much as anybody may not like to hear this, Steven did play a better game this time around, his technique was cleaned up, but he has forgotten that it is a GAME. Sometimes you win, sometimes you lose and when you lose take it like a true sport!

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I am very grateful and flattered to have met the acquaintance of Mandy Meloon, and even though she has been banished from the face of USA Taekwondo (It seems that any hints of her presence have been erased; there is no longer an athlete profile for her) I’d like to say that an athlete of her calibre is welcome any time here in Peru. I hope that one day she’ll make a trip down here and continue to inspire female athletes; we could all use a little global “girl power” every now and then.

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Update: September 24, 2008

Adding Fuel to the Fire of Poor Sportsmanship & a Deteriorating Public Image?

It’s a double standard when it comes to words, accusations & complaints:

From: www.mysanantonio.com

Excerpt: “I (Steven Lopez) think I would have made a statement with the judges here (by refusing to fight again). But, in hindsight, I believe the people back home deserved a bronze medal, if anything. Not winning anything would have been worse.”

(I believe somebody else was accused and ultimately kicked off the team for allegedly threatening to forfeit her match.)

Excerpt: “Once the protest was filed, Perez said the WTF violated its own procedures by not granting a proper hearing and by not considering video evidence from the match. He also said it reflects the degree to which change is needed in the Korean-controlled WTF.”

(Look who’s talking.)

Excerpt: “If this is truly what taekwondo is about, maybe taekwondo shouldn’t be an Olympic sport. Maybe they should fix it and then let it come back.”

(Well, now we all know that the Cuban is definitely NOT to blame for its demise then.)

Excerpt: “However, he added, “We were manhandled. We were threatened. We participated in good faith. We would expect the organization to provide us a level playing field, and we don’t think we were given a level playing field.“I’m not angry. I am disappointed beyond belief.”

(Nice choice of words, I believe we’ve heard these words expressed by other U.S. team members before.)

Excerpt: It was the first loss since at least 2002 for Lopez, who along with his younger siblings have spent the last six months doing commercials for several national advertisers and, during the Olympics, missing training to do promotional appearances across the Olympic Green.

(a. A commercially motivated phantom point in “the infamous match” seems more and more plausible; b. They can miss practice, but the others can’t?)

Excerpt: Perez said USA Taekwondo officials also believe Mark Lopez, who fought much of the day with a fractured left hand, was judged improperly in his matches Thursday. In one case, he said, Lopez’s South Korean opponent, Son Taejin, was awarded two of what he described as phantom points.

( a. Amazing he didn’t get “replaced” for the fracture!; b. Phantom points seem to be a specialty.)

Excerpt: “The only thing that we can figure is that three of the referees sneezed at the same time or that they pushed their buttons (to register a point) on instinct,” Perez said.

He said the federation had a responsibility to its young members in the United States to protest what he described as a “tainted” Olympic event.

( Just like the Nia vs. Diana match, right?; “tainted” is an understatement, but where it’s “tainted” is left to interpretation.)

Excerpt: Steven Lopez was a prohibitive favorite to win a gold medal, and the two younger siblings were seen as gold medal contenders as well. Jean Lopez, however, said the standings were irrelevant when compared to the benefits of publicity and goodwill that his family has brought to taekwondo.

( What would the world of U.S. Taekwondo be like without the Lopez family (monopoly)? And if that’s what you consider “goodwill,” well then give it to the thrift store, we don’t need it.)

Excerpt: “If anyone perceives this as a disappointment, they miss the big picture,” Jean Lopez said. “They’re nearsighted and shallow in seeing things as gold, silver and bronze and instead of the hard work, the dedication, the sacrifice, the miracle of what just transpired.

“Sometimes we miss the little miracles, and those of the big miracles of life.”

( a. Disappointment? No. Maybe if it were Gold then, yes it would be. b. “Nearsighted, shallow?” Freudian slip, perhaps? c. “Sacrifice?” Who did you guys happen to sacrifice? d. Yes, a loss to someone better IS a miracle! )

Well, the 2008 Beijing Olympics are over. I say, who cares? The spectacle that these countries make over these games; they make such a big hoopla over them. From gaudy opening ceremonies to the supposed guilt you are made to feel because they end and maybe you did not catch that table tennis match. I swear, for these countries it is about being bad and showing off. And you know that once these games end these nations will be at each other’s throats and breathing down each other’s necks with the threat of war.

Don’t get me wrong, I think of myself as a hardcore sports fan, especially when it comes to the American past time of baseball. I shed a little tear for the stupid destruction of Yankee Stadium. I mean, come on, I laughed and I cried, I was angry and I dies a little when the Yankees blew a 3-0 lead on the Red Sox, and not only blew the series lead in the ALCS, but were one out away from that baseball paradise, the World Series. But in the end, I realized the truth. These guys are overpaid, overpriced, and overrated. I mean 200 mil to hit a ball with a stick.

When I was depressed fool, a week or so after the loss, crying as I worked and sweated in my minimum wage job, I bet ARod was throwing bricks of money at women, trying to get them in his hotel room and Jeter was making the Hollywood rounds, and the others, well they swam in their guaranteed contracts and money. I’m of the school that no one, and I mean no one, is worth getting paid 200 plus mil no matter what they do. Especially if you throw a ball, hit a ball, push a ball, and chase a ball. That’s just me. But I would think that this is an indictment of our society as a whole and speaks volumes of what people really value in life. But that’s just me.

I watched a little bit of the games myself, out of boredom, and it is funny to hear some of those in the crowds chanting, “USA, USA,” as if there is still anything called national pride left. That my friends, has been squeezed dry. Picking your media publication is like picking your poison. I picked up one of the publications and I was laughing in my head and at the same time horrified at this so called piece of reasonable reporting. This particular article went on and on about Phelps and his breaking of records and medals and this and that. They were fawning and literally falling over themselves like little tween girls at a Disney concert. One article was about the endorsements lining up at his door and another was about the cash that was lining up at his door as well. And another article was asking the all important question of whether he is dating that model from the U.K or that actress from the U.S.

This is your media, ladies and gentlemen. These are the true Olympics. Like any and every sport, it’s all about bragging rights for the countries involved. So next time all the representatives from all corners of the globe meet up in a U.N meeting, one can say to the other, “We got gold and you don’t. Ha! See, our people are superior to yours.” Most people I’ve come across do not seem too concerned or even care about the great games. It is because we all lead lives that are not affected one way or another by the medals that hang around the neck of Phelps or by the Redeem Team’s mission to redeem itself.

Our lives are filled to the brim with anxieties, worries, uncertainty, and anger. Yes, the anger. The suffering in the lives screaming for a way out; the race of those caught in the cycle of consumerism. We are the victims of the big lie. The world games are supposed to relieve this? A week or so of peace for a lifetime of hell. The Olympics of consumerism, this is what they should be called. The many advertisements to purchase products now, going hand in hand with the lie that is sold from the screen giving your heart hope that maybe, just maybe, you will be that star athlete , that celebrity, that somebody, adored by millions across the country. But this has not come
true, you realize, as you come home and before you lays a mountain of bills and debt, your phone rings and it is your landlord asking for back rent that you can no longer afford because it keeps rising. All this takes place as some American gymnast wins another gold medal and as the arrogance of the medal tally is on full display on your local newscast.

Ask yourself, why would the parents of a child with his brains blown out in Palestine by imperialists concern themselves with which country has the most gold accumulated? Why would some kid in Iraq who just lost his whole family to a bomb of democracy care about his so called “heroes” in the triathlons, swim finals, indoor volleyball semi finals, and it goes on and on. Do you think the poor across the ghettos of the United States, who are struggling on a shoestring to get by, and do not know where their next meal will come from, spend their time thinking about out national Olympic glory? How about the peasant in Latin America? Do you get my drift? This is what
the Olympics do for me and you. We really believe that we are in the bodies of those who play, run, swim, and jump. We are the one really standing on that podium, humbly accepting our reward, our medals, before the eyes of the whole world. And you are so proud of yourself. You feel good. You see, it is about the trip, the transport to another world. It’s a mind thing, it is all vicarious.

I leave you with this. The Olympics cannot save or set you free. McDonald’s can’t. Home Depot can’t. United Airway can’t. Bendigo Bank can’t. GM can’t. Disney can’t. AT&T can’t. Visa can’t. Coca-Cola can’t. Bank of America can’t. Nissan can’t. Kraft Foods can’t. Johnson and Johnson can’t. General Electric can’t. Clorox can’t. Samsung can’t. Nike can’t. Geico can’t. Panasonic can’t. Rupublicans and Democrats can’t. The 08’ Olympics are finally dead and buried. Finally.

The Princess would say ‘G’day’ to all except she is still scraping herself off the floor… it is more than possible Fashion Week is becoming too long for someone at her advanced age. It’s just too many collections and pieces and people and places to keep track of…d-e-e-p breath. And she’s not even there you realize, this is all online exertion we are talking about.

So let’s just start with a new item here in the Land ‘O the Preppy Princess, from some of TP’s favorite people: the good folks at Boatman Geller. Has everyone heard about the newest of the BG creations? The always-on, never-resting and ever-vigilant preppy antennae many of you possess may have already alerted you to the new and fabulous Carrie & Tuck Notetote from Boatman Geller.

Boatman Geller Carrie & Tuck Notetote at PreppyPrincess.com

If you have heard about the Notetotes it is probably because they are receiving incredibly positive press, and with good reason. Everything you need for your own portable correspondence center is included in this eye-catching set. For example, here is what you find inside the bright pink cotton canvas Notetote:

• 6″ x 9” clipboard
• writing pen
• 5 awning stripe orange foldovers
• 5 pink/orange flat cards
• 25 padded letter sheets
• 15 envelopes
• address sheet

We are all so frenzied-busy these days, being able to just grab and go is a huge plus for the Princess. It’s great while waiting at the doctor, after soccer or ballet, when you are picking up after school, when you are early for the League meeting…you name it! Using that time to dash off a quick ‘Hello,’ or ‘Thank You’ makes the time simply fly by! Besides, we feel so much more constructive with this than when we merely sit… and sit… and sit some more, fidgeting and fretting about the clock ticking, morphing into a massive stressball. Our Notetote is also good for our mental health.

The Carrie & Tuck colors are just outstanding: pink, green chocolate and navy.

The Notetotes are an outstanding value at just $39, something you can be proud to carry in public and a first-class investment you will have for years. We also think they are the perfect gift for just about anyone on any occasion, they are that versatile. Starting to teach a youngster the importance of handwritten personal correspondence? Or perhaps you’re to be a houseguest at Penny & Preston’s cottage in the Port next weekend? Searching for the ideal way to say ‘Great Job!’ to someone? The Notetote is just what you need.

And the really nice thing about the Notetotes? The fabulous refill sets you can choose from, like the oh-so-preppy Alligators, or the snappy Blue Whale set!

Or something completely new for TP, a refill set featuring a “rocker-chic skull and crossbones” design for the preppy rebel in your Palace. If that doesn’t work, then an utterly fabulous Wellies & Madras motif is a must-see.

And there are lots more, just pop in and take a peek at the refill sets to see what’s available; we are adding more as fast as our little fingers can type! (Frankly, we have considered some of the refills on their own merits as they give you a nice cross-section of items in one easy grouping and at only $18 each they are a superb value.)

Now because we know you are taking an early look at your Christmas and Hanukkah gift-giving needs, we are here to help with an offer that helps keep things within budget: free shipping on all of the Boatman Geller goodies at the Preppy Princess! As you are checking out, just type in BGDEAL when asked for any coupon codes, and you’re all set.

Since we’re already thinking about good values, let us consider the Ralph Lauren Last Chance sale, offering some remarkable values if you are in a position to ‘buy ahead’ as we say, or stock up on some basics. And of course that dreary “M-Word” rears its head, but what else is one to do when looking at Clearance merchandise? Many things are an additional 25% off the sale price, so you may want to glance at the website if a retail store isn’t geographically desirable.

So here we are, despite our extreme case of Logophobia, we simply had to show these little Infant shoes in the navy and green – how cute are they? And the Girls Toddler Snowboots are ideal with winter headed this way.

The Toddler Girl’s Hi-top Sneakers in pink oxford cloth are very cute, and the Kilcoy Satin Trim Polo in Ralph Lauren Women sizes 1x-3x has an elegant appeal.

If you are interested in US Open apparel, we show a Boys 2-7 US Open Graphic Tee, or perhaps the White Multi-Stripe Polo, now an additional 25% off its $16.99 price (it was originally $35), quite the fabulous deal *if* it can be used.

The Boys 8-20 Multi-Stripe Polo comes in two colorways and is less than $13 with all the wacky discounts. In Girls 2T-6x the Long Sleeved Polo is available in several colors.

Moving on to ‘grown-up clothes’ there are scads of bargains, especially in the Ralph Lauren Collection category, like the Erica Striped Shirt. In the Black Label group the Classic-Fit Cashmere Crewneck is at a fabulous price point and in loads of colors!

Shoes, handbags and other sale accessories abound. We have always been fond of the Darby Bag, and at the current price it is almost impossible to resist. There is also plenty of Golf and Tennis merchandise on hand, like the Westchester Tech Skort, always ideal on the court and perfect for those already planning some of the wardrobe for Florida and other parts south.

Of course, the men aren’t short-changed in the sale, with everything available from Big and Tall to Golf, and the Purple & Black Labels as well. For example the Long-sleeved rugby is on hand in a a number of colors and a broad range of sizes.And the NYC Weathered Fleece Crew has a very snuggly look to it, almost something TP would consider for wear around the Prepatorium.

This is only an itty-bitty sampling of what is available online and in the stores; now is a superb time for gathering some of the basics at rock-bottom prices, especially those that are not tied to any one season. BTW, there is a substantial selection of merchandise available across all sizes in both the US Open and Official Summer Olympic Games Collections, in Men’s, Women’s, Boy’s and Girl’s, if that holds any appeal.

There you have it – happy hunting!

Leander Paes wins US Open mixed doubles crown

Indian tennis ace Leander Paes stayed on course for a grand double at the US Open when he and Zimbabwe’s Cara Black won the mixed doubles crown at the season-ending Grand Slam on Thursday.

The fifth seeded Indo-Zimbabwean pair beat the American-British pairing of Liezel Huber and Jamie Murray 7-6, 6-4 in the final.

The triumph increased Paes’s tally of Grand Slam crowns to eight.

Games went with serve in the first set, which went to the tie-breaker, where Paes and Black fought back from 4-6 down to take the set at 8-6.

In the second set, Paes and Black got the crucial break in the fifth game, breaking Murray. They held serve comfortable thereafter to take the set and match.

Paes will also figure in the men’s doubles final on Friday, when he and his Czech partner Lukas Dlouhy take on the Bryan twins Mike and Bob of the United States.

This is one we simply couldn’t resist when we saw it online at the Boutique’s website. The Princess wasn’t looking for a chair, let alone a flaming fuchsia chair, but we somehow stumbled onto it whilst searching for a new Isaac Mizrahi Collection at Target.

The Pod chair in Hot Pink is available online; TP doesn’t know if one can purchase it in stores or not. Target is suggesting this zany lamp as a coordinating piece, but we don’t believe it works well in the Palace, so we shall have to pass on its unique design.

Have a tiny prep in the household who might enjoy this delightful little pink chair? This pint-sized piece of pink puffery is only $19.99 as of this writing, and it looks ever-so-cute. (“When all else fails, alliterate…”, from the film ‘Network’.)

If you are still looking for pink furniture, Target also offers the pink Cloud Chair & Ottoman. (Ouch.) Of course, there is always the Bungie Low-Back Chair in pink and black. A side note here: The Princess really feels compelled to share her impressions of the Cloud Chair. From our limited online perspective it looks like faux fur that may prove…ah…that may prove…um, may prove…yes, it could be difficult for the household staff to keep clean. What with the dog’s hair and all. We’re just looking out for your staff.

We take a moment now to revisit noted designer Thom Browne. (Regular readers have been subjected to enjoyed TP’s thoughts on Mr. Brown’s ‘look’ in previous posts.) It would seem his standalone menswear store has enjoyed a visit from the Times’ “Critical Shopper” columnist Mike Albo. Perhaps enjoyed isn’t the appropriate adjective; we’ll say ‘experienced a visit,’ that might be better.

Photo: Hiroko Masuike for The New York Times

Mr. Albo has also done Critical Shopper columns on the new Rogan store (click here for more) and the Brooks Brothers on Madison Avenue (click here for more of that column) at 44th. The photo above is from the February 2007 Brooks Brothers column.

How did Mr. Albo find his visit to Mr. Browne’s emporium, or more accurately Mr. Browne’s designs?

“Across from the gray-hued garments, for example, was a selection of jaunty sweaters. A $3,500 thick cardigan was striped in navy blue and red, and a V-neck tennis sweater for $2,875 looked as if it had been ripped off Jay Gatsby’s dead body.”

(Mr. Browne is seen in his own design above left.)

Mr. Albo is not without humor. In describing a brightly hued overcoat he says,

“Past the three-way mirror was a rack of hilarious outerwear, including an overcoat in a queasily cheery yellow plaid for $4,500 that no one should buy unless he is an exhibitionist looking for a more eye-catching cover-up before exposing himself on the subway platform.”

The entire column is not all pokes and jabs at Mr. Browne’s design aesthetic, who also designs the Black Fleece line for Brooks Brothers. It also makes numerous complimentary points, at one point describing the suits as “light and good-natured, not dogmatic and snobby.” Mr. Albo refers to formalwear as “…beautiful…successfully blended Mr. Browne’s traditional and experimental sides.”

Here at the Prepatorium we simply adore the Critical Shopper; previous columns covered Tory Burch, Marc by Marc Jacobs, and Steven Alan. (Note: these links are to the individual designer pages, not the Times columns.)

it is always fun to read another individual’s perceptions of the brand and/or the physical stores selling that designer’s apparel and accessories. Stop by the Times and read this Critical Shopper column, or better yet, peruse some of the back columns, including the previously mentioned Steven Alan review.

Many a preppy is familiar with Steven Alan; we were nudged to pop into the online shop when reminded by the Shopper’s column on the store. We feel compelled to let you know they have several of their men’s “basics” on sale, including the Hidden Button shirt, a classic.

Additionally, many of the Reverse Seam shirts are marked down along with other styles. On the Women’s side, TP is ecstatic to see the Dieppa Restropo Black Patent Lace-ups, although these treasures are not on sale. Of course not.

And while not for us, we do find the Hope Shirt to be absolutely adorable, perfect for someone perhaps a tad younger than TP.

Many of the Kids’ styles are on sale, and while adorable, they are also out of season, to be expected at this time of year. Below, the Girls Camisole Dress.

And ladies, after seeing a quick peek of the Spring 2009 line, we think you will find it more than appealing.

An update now on über-athlete Michael Phelps that many of you are likely to have already heard: he is donating his $1,000,000 bonus from Speedo to his charitable program. (You know, that little check promised if he won all eight Gold Medals.) You can see him below, receiving the symbolic check from the head of Warnaco, owners of the Speedo brand.

Photo: Getty Images/Warnaco

The Michael Phelps Foundation’s “Dream, Plan, Reach” program is going to focus on teaching more children to swim as well as instilling self-confidence in them. Phelps phans can see their hero on Oprah’s season-opener next Monday, along with 149 other Olympic athletes. The 8-time Olympic Gold Medalist was mobbed in Chicago when he arrived to tape the Oprah show.

AP/M. Spencer Green

Below you see Phelps helping a girl learn to swim at a Visa Grant for Early Swimming Program discussion at the McBurney YMCA in New York on Aug. 28th

REUTERS/Joshua Lott

Mr. Phelps has been a busy man. In addition to the many public appearances he is called upon to make, he has also purchased a 4000+ square foot apartment on Baltimore’s rejuvenated and renovated waterfront. The apartment has a stunning view, a Jacuzzi and many other accoutrements.

Good for him, he certainly has worked hard enough.

And one more update related to the Phelps family, with news that Debbie Phelps has actually signed a formal one-year agreement with Chico’s clothing. The deal calls for Ms. Phelps, who is a school principal in Baltimore (among many, many other responsibilities that can only have multiplied recently), to promote the company’s merchandise. In exchange Chico’s provides apparel, accessories, as they reportedly did for her appearance on that same Oprah Winfrey show. (You may want to take a glance at the Debbie Phelps Collection, recently supplemented with far more items than previously contained in the group.)

Is it really the start of the -ber months?! Geez, next thing we know it’s already Christmas time! Just few months ahead! But before that, of course I need to do a usual monthly recap. This time, for the month of August. I’d have to say that it was a pretty busy month for me, in it’s most extreme definition. Crazy, I might add! It has been one helluva month. Here’s how I spent it, a detailed approach on who and what shaped the thirtyone days of my August.

Too much work! Well, I should’ve included this one on my Too Much entry but this particular detail speaks well of how I spent my entire work month.  An unforeseen change prompted our department to make overtime mandatory. Announced the last week of July gearing up, we started the month doing an hour and forty five minutes of overtime everyday, either before or after our shift. At first it was kind of ok, but when it started to sink in that we’ll do OT until next month, it immediately became our favorite subject of loathe. Yes we receive more pay come suweldo time, but as most of us say, I think it would be more appropriate if I’ll quote this in Tagalog, “hindi mababayaran ang maayos na tulog!” Even if it’s just a couple of hours, still it makes one hell of a big difference. It’s exhausting and draining, I tell you. Yeah, we understand that they only meant business, but still, the damage has been done. But we are surviving! On the other hand, if rendering OT everyday would make me look good like this guy on the picture, I would willingly abide!

Mom in province. My ever hyper and beautiful mom went over to her birthplace in Calbayog City, Samar around the second week of August, to attend with some business matter. She should’ve went back home after 7 days, but they waited for harvest instead until the end of the month. Having said that, I was in a way back to doing some major house chores like when she was in China last year. But thank God my stepdad is here, he’s always the one doing the cooking and the laundry. Yey!

No movies?! Yes. Nada. Zero. Zilch. Wala. Because of doing too much work and mom not present here at home, I got so busy and tired everyday that I haven’t found time to watch any movies. I even bought some dvds few weeks back, but really can’t watch it because either I’m so sleepy after work or got loads of house stuff to do. It’s just a proven fact when I mentioned that last month can probably hold a record of most movies watched. And now, not even one! Which makes me think that I should try to watch one later. Hmmm..

One World, One Dream. That’s the Olympics catch phrase, but it seems that our Olympic dream has not come true yet. Well, there’s always next time but is four years not enough time for our government/commission to produce Olympic caliber athletes? I mean, we sure have a lot out there, but aren’t getting the right support. So we’ll just probably wait a little more and hang in there for our much awaited Gold. I actually chanced on a list of medals the Philippines had since it started. And mind you, we only had 9 since 1924! Imagine that. The last was Onyok’s Silver medal at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics. Here’s a complete list:

Medal	Name	Games	Sport	Event
3 Bronze	Yldefonso, TeofiloTeofilo Yldefonso	1928 Amsterdam	Swimming	Men’s 400 metre breaststroke
3 Bronze	Toribio, SimeonSimeon Toribio	1932 Los Angeles	Athletics	Men’s high jump
3 Bronze	Villanueva, JoséJosé Villanueva	1932 Los Angeles	Boxing	Men’s bantamweight
3 Bronze	Yldefonso, TeofiloTeofilo Yldefonso	1932 Los Angeles	Swimming	Men’s 200 metre breaststroke
3 Bronze	White, MiguelMiguel White	1936 Berlin	Athletics	Men’s 400 metre hurdles
2 Silver	Villanueva, AnthonyAnthony Villanueva	1964 Tokyo	Boxing	Men’s featherweight
3 Bronze	Serantes, LeopoldoLeopoldo Serantes	1988 Seoul	Boxing	Men’s light flyweight
3 Bronze	Velasco, RoelRoel Velasco	1992 Barcelona	Boxing	Men’s light flyweight
2 Silver	Velasco, MansuetoMansueto Velasco	1996 Atlanta	Boxing	Men’s light flyweight

Anyway, the Beijing Olympics is probably the most watched in the history (thanks to the worldwideweb), had the most interesting personalities and also the most controversy filled I think. From the opening ceremony, the one who sang in it up until the closing ceremony, Michael Phelps being the greatest Olympian ever, the openly gay Australian diver who won a gold, and probably a lot more. So, I guess we’ll see yah in the next 4 years in London!

The Twilight Fever. I’ve been bitten! Even though I got a bit busy, I still managed to read a book. In three days, I finished reading Twilight, the international best seller debut novel of Stephenie Meyer. I have heard so much about this book it that’s why I checked it out. And after reading it, there I finally learned what the fuss was about. I liked it, quite an interesting read. A Filipino type of vampire was actually mentioned in the book. The one that’s called a Danag, I wasn’t aware of it actually until I got to read this novel. Now I am so excited to see the movie version! It was supposed to be released on December 12 but I heard it was moved to November. I am actually reading the sequel New Moon, but failed to finish it before the month ends, I’m only halfway through. Looking forward to reading the rest of the series!

Birthdays and Parties! I have attended several birthday parties the whole month. First was a double celebration of my Pop and my Tita Joy. And then a surprise birthday get together for my cousin Wheng, which I planned and was really appreciated. I actually didn’t know that I’ll be good in surprises hehe! Just last week, I was at Buddy’s in Ortigas for an officemate/then schoolmate Aden’s birthday bash. And oh, I also attended RX 93.1’s Anniversary Party dubbed as Too Hot To Handle over at White Avenue in Tomas Morato. Thank goodness for these events and occasions, because I really needed to let loose and somehow forget about the OT thing which is killing me haha! It’s not all work, you know.

Pop’s and Tita Joy’s celebration

Cousin Wheng’s birthday surprise

Aden’s birthday at Buddy’s Ortigas

and the RX anniv party, w/my pareng Nhinzky

E on 8.30.08! What better way to wrap the month up than being part of the biggest concert event of the year, the Eraserheads Reunion Concert! The moment I heard about the news, I was nearly freaking out. That’s why I right away registered to The Red List, but felt like the world shattered when the sponsor backed out. Thank God for our dear friend LT, she included us on the VIP list of Raymund Marasigan! Come Eheads night, we’re all so excited! And the excitement turned into elation as THE legends started to rock The Fort. The opening alone gave me goosebumps! Iba talaga ang Eheads! Malupet! We had a super blast listening to their songs, never fails to bring back good old memories. Too bad it was cut short, but still it’s worth it. I am actually having a hangover, I’ve been downloading their songs online and listening to them all day haha! Rock on!

Master Ely Buendia

the Eraserheaders haha!

So, that’s how I spent my August! Pretty exhausting, isn’t it? Hope you had a blast, too!

*** You can view the rest of the pictures on my Multiply account.

Here in Berlin I’ve received much essential support, suggestions and astute criticism from peers and colleagues, but also some ‘woooo, hang on’ criticism, especially this week during the Olympic flame’s rather unhappy travels. Suprisingly, otherwise liberal and supportive professors have shown great caution and wanted to really avoid the project. I’m always very hesitant to think of myself as radical, certainly too radical. In my experience, this is rarely the case, and those who think they are too radical are often simply missing something, some experience that someone else has.

See Clashes along Olympic torch route

A Chinese artist and curator colleague has also been cautious, claming up when I asked her if she knew any writers, teachers or political science students. She reacted in a way I’ve never seen before, laughing nervously and saying, ‘no, of course I don’t know anyone involved in these areas, only artists’, but almost as if there were a thrid person in the room, checking her response. I think this was my first experience of the effects of an all-knowing dictatorship, though I suspect my colleague was more cautious than absolutely necessary. She, I now understand, is most likely a party member. She suggested I do something less confrontational, more concillatory. I don’t find the project that critical, but as the media spotlight turns to China, and Chinese hackles raise, I’m happy with the concept -rather than a westerner looking across and opinionating about China, it enables a reverse, of sorts. The project appears to be becoming more relevant with current events, not less. And I don’t think its an artist’s job to make things that are necessarily ‘nice’.