THE RIDGE - March 2012 by The Ridge

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EDITOR’S NOTE 03

EDITOR’S NOTE H

ave you ever wondered why we keep doing this?

Relentlessly producing articles every month, without the affirmation that what we’re doing is actually appreciated by the student population at large. Oh yes, over the months we’ve received all sorts of comments, including notes of appreciation from some. Others saw fit to issue marks of dismissal, thinking that THE RIDGE Magazine is nothing more than a frivolous waste of paper. To the former, all of us sincerely thank you for your encouragement. It’s nice to know that someone out there is thinking of us and the work we do. To the latter, I challenge you to take your own criticisms to heart and either join us to make this magazine something worthy of your standards, or create something to rival us. I don’t mean to sound spiteful or conceited. As Chief

Editor, I’m fully aware of the weaknesses and limitations of the magazine. We’re always happy to listen to constructive feedback, even when it’s negative. But I have no time for people who unjustly step on the work of my editors and writers. Here’s the thing: every publication has a purpose, and ours is simply to produce a magazine covering a broad array of topics that appeal to young people in the university, and provide an avenue for aspiring writers to hone their craft. We passionately believe in what we’re doing – that is, to produce the best magazine we can, and to keep trying to better our standards month by month.

commentary on the fashion sense of a new Korean pop star. The next issue will be our last, and then a new editorial board will take over. For the flame of THE RIDGE to continue burning, we need you to pick up your pen, or fire up your copy of Photoshop, and come join the biggest student-run editorial team in NUS. If you have the passion, we have the space for you to live it.

Raymond, Chief Editor theridge.chiefeditor@nussu.org.sg

That’s the spirit of THE RIDGE. We firmly believe in the quality of work that the students of NUS are capable of producing, and we want to encourage more people to speak up on all sorts of topics, be it the latest political trends or a

CONTENTS NEWS

OPINION

ENTERTAINMENT

06 THE RUNDOWN

16 IN DEFENCE OF RELIGIOUS OPINIONS

25 BOOKS, MOVIES, MUSIC REVIEWS

07 THE PRIDE AND JOY OF YONG TAU FOO

18 THE VANISHING VOID DECK

28 MOSAIC MUSIC FESTIVAL 2012: THE PEACE OF OUR SOULS

08 DRAGONS IN THE SAND

20 CREATING THE PEDALLING CULTURE

12 NUS CAMPUS CRUSADE TOLD TO STOP ACTIVITIES

22 OPENING PANDORA’S BOX: AN INTERVIEW WITH LOW KIAH HWEE

30 PAVING THE WAY FOR INDIE MUSIC

13 A CHAMPION FOR MIGRANT WORKERS’ RIGHTS

32 ANDY WARHOL: 15 MINUTES ETERNAL 34 WHEN AUSTEN BECKONS PART II

LIFESTYLE

WIRED

SPORTS

36 ENTERING ENTREPRENEURSHIP

46 SOCIAL AGGREGATION SITES TO WASTE YOUR TIME ON

52 AN OLYMPIC DREAM

38 THE HEART OF MAGIC

54 POOR SPORTSMANSHIP 48 THUNDERBOLT VS USB 3.0

39 MAAD ABOUT ART

56 SUPER BOWL XLVI 50 BYTE-SIZED

40 OPERATION GASTRONOMIA: MY SECRET ITALIAN AFFAIR

58 AN ALL-ROUND STAR 60 TEAMNUS CRICKET’S TOUR OF NEW ZEALAND

42 BE LIN-SANE 44 SHEER BEAUTY 45 MARCH EVENTS

EDITORIAL TEAM

EDITORIAL BOARD

CONTRIBUTORS

Chief Editor Raymond Lau theridge.chiefeditor@nussu.org.sg

News Desk

Deputy Chief Editors Meera Nair & Vani Goyal theridge.depchiefeditor@nussu.org.sg Creative Director Caryn Quek theridge.creative@nussu.org.sg

Priscilla Yang

a0085977@nus.edu.sg

Gerrard Lai

a0080961@nus.edu.sg

Gerald Chew

geraldchewyk@nus.edu.sg

Opinion Desk Elliot Tan

elliot.tan@nus.edu.sg

Yveena Mariel

a0083312@nus.edu.sg

Shibanshu Mukhopadhyay

shibanshu@nus.edu.sg

Serene Leong

sereneleong@nus.edu.sg

Entertainment Desk

Head Designer Nguyen Son Tra theridge.headdesigner@nussu.org.sg News Desk Editors Luke Vijay & Yeo Shang Long theridge.news@nussu.org.sg Opinion Desk Editor Augustin Chiam theridge.opinion@nussu.org.sg Lifestyle Desk Editor Bridget Tan theridge.lifestyle@nussu.org.sg

He Yining

he.yining@nus.edu.sg

Anupama Hegde

a0078256@nus.edu.sg

Divya Gundlapalli

divya.divya10@nus.edu.sg

Nurshahiylia Erdina

nurshahiylia@nus.edu.sg

Vivian Leung

u0901614@nus.edu.sg

Lifestyle Desk Chan Yi Wen

chanyiwen@nus.edu.sg

Goh Bang Rui

bang@nus.edu.sg

Teresa Widodo

teresa.widodo@nus.edu.sg

Wilson Lim

a0072651@nus.edu.sg

Vera Li

a0082905@nus.edu.sg

Candice Chua

a0077257@nus.edu.sg

Rachel Ong

rachel.ong@nus.edu.sg

Wired Desk

Entertainment Desk Editors Nicole Kang theridge.entertainment@nussu.org.sg Sports Desk Editor Prateek Sinha theridge.sports@nussu.org.sg Wired Desk Editor Shanmugam MPL theridge.wired@nussu.org.sg Copy Editor Ngui Jian Gang theridge.copyeditor@nussu.org.sg

Lester Hio

a0072480@nus.edu.sg

Lam Woon Cherk

u080380@nus.edu.sg

Krishna M

a0089241@nus.edu.sg

Sports Desk Naveen Prakash

naveen.prakash@nus.edu.sg

Abhishek Ravi

a0074613@nus.edu.sg

How Xian Wei

a0087487@nus.edu.sg

Layout Designers Wan Munirah

u0807616@nus.edu.sg

Patricia Natalia Jonatan

patriciajonatan@nus.edu.sg

Andrew Fong Jia Ping

fongjiaping@nus.edu.sg

Photographers Carmen Chee

Financial Secretary Arnab Ghosh theridge.finsec@nussu.org.sg

NUS STUDENTSâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; UNION NUSSU Publications Secretary Tan Heng Wee pubsec@nussu.org.sg

a0077341@nus.edu.sg

NEWS

THE RUNDOWN Yeo Shang Long & Luke Vijay

CHINESE STUDENT APOLOGISES FOR REMARKS ABOUT SINGAPOREANS

Mr. Sun Xu, the Chinese NUS student who earlier wrote in his microblog that there were “more dogs than humans” in Singapore, has since apologised on his Facebook page for making such remarks

The mechanical engineering student is also a recipient of a scholarship from the Ministry of Education. NUS is currently conducting disciplinary proceedings with regard to this case, and MOE has said that it will take reference from NUS’ findings

“I am very sorry for the statement that I had made on my blog on 18 February 2012, which I now realise was insensitive and inappropriate. Please accept my sincere apologies.” - NUS student Sun Xu, in an apology posted on his Facebook page

Source: The Straits Times, Facebook

NUS CAMPUS CRUSADE TOLD TO STOP ALL ACTIVITIES

The NUS Campus Crusade for Christ, which was found to have made insensitive remarks about other religions in some of its posters, has been told by NUS to cease all activities pending the university’s internal investigations

“NUS is a multi-ethnic and multireligious community. We expect every member of our community to be respectful towards the religious customs, beliefs and sensitivities of others.” - NUS Deputy President (Academic Affairs) and Provost Professor Tan Eng Chye, in a circular posted soon after the remarks surfaced

“We humbly apologise for the distress we have caused you through the poster of ours that has gone viral online. We recognize that our choice of words used should have been more sensitive and tactful... We have since removed our posters and websites, and will be watchful of future actions. ” - The NUS Campus Crusade for Christ, in a public apology posted on Facebook

Source: The Straits Times, National University of Singapore, Facebook

Turn to page 12 for the full story>>

YALE-NUS RESOLUTION INTRODUCED AT YALE FACULTY MEETING

Yale faculty introduced and debated over a resolution concerning civil rights and political liberties at the Yale-NUS College The professors voted to postpone their decision regarding this resolution to their next meeting in April

“We demand that Yale-NUS ... respect, protect and further the ideals of civil liberties for all minorities, the principles of non-discrimination, and full political freedom, both on the Yale-NUS campus and in Singapore as a whole. These ideals drive our pedagogical mission as well as our civic sense as citizens, and they must not be compromised in any dealings or negotiations with the Singaporean authorities.” - An extract from the proposed resolution, which was written by Yale Professor Seyla Benhabib Source: Yale Daily News

NEWS

THE PRIDE AND JOY OF YONG TAU FOO

(Photo by Carmen Chee)

Priscilla Yang

ith a small towel draped across the back of his neck, a pair of swift-working hands, and a hardworking attitude — Lee Kooy Tee, owner of the yong tau foo stall at The Deck, holds the secret to the perfect bowl of laksa yong tau foo. But success does not come easy. Lee works hard behind the scenes from Monday to Friday during the school term to feed the ravenous appetites of NUS students after a morning’s worth of lectures. Drawing the crowd has become a daily affair for Lee’s business. His food is the cause of the endless queues, and not just during lunch hour. Despite his busy lifestyle, Lee said he enjoys working in a school environment because his customers are mostly students,

which means he is treated with respect and courtesy. From experience, he knows that the general public can make unreasonable demands sometimes. Lee’s yong tau foo shop first started out at Mei Ling market in Queenstown. He moved to NUS in 1997 and has worked here as a canteen vendor for 16 years. He is now 60 years old, lives in Ang Mo Kio and is married to the woman who stands behind the cashier. The couple has three children who are already working but help out at his stall when they can. Most of the people running the stall are family members with the exception of one hired worker. Lee’s stall has been awarded ‘Best Stall Award’ in NUS annually since 2003. When asked how he feels to have achieved so much,

he beamed with slight embarrassment and said it could not have been done without the support of the students. Lee said he would miss working in NUS when the time comes for him to retire. Knowing that the students enjoy eating his food brings him a deep sense of satisfaction. He reminisces about one incident when a graduate, already married with children, brought her family to visit him and eat at his stall. However, as with all businesses, there are bound to be periods of downturn. Lee expressed concern over his sales, which have dropped by 38 percent over the past semester. He attributes the decline to a diversion of business towards the recently-launched University Town.

But it is unlikely that yong tau foo will be leaving The Deck anytime soon. Enterprising and passionate, Lee constantly tries to improve the taste of his food, and he has been rewarded for his work. Lee’s yong tau foo has been featured in many food blogs as a ‘must try!’. With pride in his achievements, the accomplished and competent hawker said consistency is good, but improvement is better.

NEWS*PHOTOSTORY

DRAGONS IN THE SAND

Street photographer Gerald Chew documents the stranger side of Singapore. This month, he turns his lens to a fading memory from our childhood - the stone dragons of HDB playgrounds.

he dragon is an especially intriguing symbol in Singaporeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s history. It marked itself on the timeline of our nation 700 years ago when the ancient sailor Wang Da Yuan named a rock formation after the maw of a dragon. It is also a conflicted symbol in our modern day society with the traditional Chinese community seeing it as a symbol of power whereas the Christian community views it as the embodiment of the ultimate evil. My interactions with dragons date back to a simpler time when they slept in sand. The dragons were my childhood friends who I eventually let down. As I grew and grew, the silent dragons stayed the same. I outgrew them and left them behind for grownup playthings. And the silent dragon slept on and on. One day, the dragon of Jurong was gone. In its place, a plastic castle stood. Losing a childhood icon was a hard hit to my adult self. These dragons served as anchors to a Singapore past that I used to be part of. As they disappeared I went to hunt down the remaining dragons to remember them before they left too.

(Photo by Gerald Chew)

The changes were already in motion as I thought of this. Layers of rubber now surrounded the old serpentine bodies of the Toa Payoh and Ang Mo Kio dragons. Their age showed from the paint that had been scraped off by the multitudes of young feet that used to dream

with them. Cracks from the elements juxtaposed the graffiti of disrespect beneath their chins. It seems that the older we get, the more we forget about the joyous times we had as children. The dragons were strangely lonely when I paid them their long overdue visit. The presence of an old man at the playgrounds rather than groups of children was a chilling sign of the fate of the Toa Payoh dragon. The old man was there to film a local commercial and was cordial. However the filming crew shooed me away due to confidentiality agreements. Their use of the dragon as a vintage backdrop told of a time that was coming to an end. That formed a stark contrast between the past and the present. I was politely chased away so they could go about their business of filming. What they failed to realise was that there was little reason for me to hang around and watch them dilute the memories of my childhood.

Turn the page for the photo spread >>

NEWS*PHOTOSTORY

DRAGONS IN THE SAND Photos by Gerald Chew

NEWS*PHOTOSTORY

NEWS

NUS CAMPUS CRUSADE TOLD TO STOP ALL ACTIVITIES (After insensitive remarks in some of its posters were surfaced, the NUS Campus Crusade for Christ issued an apology on its Facebook page) Yeo Shang Long & Luke Vijay

he NUS Campus Crusade for Christ has been ordered by NUS to stop all activities, after it was found to have made insensitive remarks about other religions in some of its posters. On February 15, photos of some of these posters surfaced on Facebook. The posters, which were meant to publicise a mission trip to Thailand, stated that “Thailand is a place of little true joy. Buddhism is so much a part of the Thai national identity and permeates every level of society and culture so deeply that only about one hundred Thais accept Christ each year.” The photos quickly went viral, sparking much outrage among both students and the general public. The next day, NUS Deputy President (Academic Affairs) and Provost Professor Tan Eng Chye issued a circular about the issue, acknowledging

that NUS was aware of the “disrespectful and insensitive remarks about other religions and communities” posted by the CCC, and that the school had contacted the group, which has since apologised. “We expect every member of our (NUS’) community to be respectful towards the religious customs, beliefs and sensitivities of others,” Tan wrote. On the same day, the CCC issued a public apology on its Facebook page, apologising “for the distress we have caused” and acknowledging that they “should have been more sensitive and tactful.”

websites, and will be watchful of future actions.” Despite this apology, NUS has decided to order them to cease all activities because it had breached the code of student conduct, The Straits Times reported. Many felt that the order for CCC to stop all activities was reasonable – for instance, secondyear arts student Cheryl Ang said, “NUS did the right thing in asking them to stop their activities.”

“Of course, I hope that with the suspension they will take the time to understand why their actions reflect badly on their membership,” she said. “We acknowledge that everyone “The stopping of their activities is entitled to their own beliefs and is a chance for the CCC to it is definitely not our intention to understand what behaviour is force anyone to believe in what we acceptable and what is not, as do,” the CCC wrote. “We have well as for them to better their since removed our posters and understanding of inter-faith

tolerance which will hopefully lead to a more peaceful, understanding and harmonious atmosphere.” Other students, however, felt otherwise. Hee En Hua, a thirdyear economics student, said, “I’d prefer they not offend people, but I much rather they be honest than be censored. I would much rather they come back, and be as they are before the fiasco.” “The truth is Christians are interested in spreading their faith,” he said. “The misfortune is that our society has liberalised so much that the dogma of the day is to be educated enough to be offended but not be empathetic enough to realise that shutting them down is going too far.”

NEWS

A CHAMPION FOR MIGRANT WORKERSâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; RIGHTS THE RIDGE sends Gerrard Lai to speak to NUS graduate, Jolovan Wham, the executive director of HOME and bastion of migrant worker rights.

Gerrard Lai

(Jolovan Wham / by Gerrard Lai)

NEWS

e has probably met more migrant workers than you have seen on the public transport. Naturally, 32-year-old Jolovan Wham is also privy to their problems and issues, which he and his non-governmental organisation (NGO) – the Humanitarian Organisation for Economics (HOME) – endeavours to help. The HOME executive director and former NUS social work graduate has championed the rights of foreign workers for the past seven years. Speaking to THE RIDGE and U@live in a brief interview at the HOME helpdesk located at Oriental Venture building along Geylang Road, Jolovan shared about his career choice, his experiences and the difficulties he face. The jovial man explained his choice of studies and career. A “strong inclination towards

wanting to work on social issues and helping those who are disadvantaged and marginalised” pointed him towards social work, which he felt was “most suitable and relevant” to what he had in mind. Then one might ask, why focus on foreign workers? The NUS social work curriculum revolves around Singaporean families, individuals and their concerns, but seldom discussed about migrant workers’ problems, which Jolovan was curious about. Satisfy his curiosity he did, as he volunteered with an organisation focusing on migrant worker issues – the Commission for the Migrant and Itinerant People – during his NUS days. He added with a laugh, “Ever since then, there has been no turning back.” Of the many workers that he now meets on a daily basis, most are construction workers, shipyard

workers, domestic workers and those in the cleaning and services industry. In his words: those that our economy depends very much on. Dependence is likely not a word that many employers will agree with Jolovan on though. In fact, from working excessive hours to underpayment to abuse, most migrant workers approach HOME for help regarding employment-related issues that Singaporeans usually take as a given. Explaining HOME’s role, Jolovan said that the organisation tries to give the workers employment advice based on their working knowledge of the local law and policies. He said, “We will tell them … the various options available and what are the likely consequences if they take a certain course of action.

“What we aim to do is let the migrant worker make an informed decision on what they can do about their situation.” Sometimes, that may entail arranging for mediation between the workers and their employers, some of whom may not respond favourably. His social work training in NUS has come in handy in such sticky situations. The trick is to not act confrontationally towards the angry employer but to try to view the problem from their perspective, as some of them may face problems themselves, which led to abusive situations involving their workers. In certain extreme cases, employers had even appeared with the police in accompaniment and insisted on their workers being taken away because they felt that HOME, as an NGO,

NEWS

had “no right to interfere in their business”. However, Jolovan sees HOME as only trying to facilitate the process of conflict resolution between disgruntled workers and employers, and mostly lets the Ministry of Manpower resolve these issues. The greatest challenges he faced though, are not just dealing with irate employers, but the discriminatory policies of the government as well as the stereotypes that employers have of the foreign workers. For instance, he recently mediated for a worker who was to be sent home by a company without giving him an opportunity to look for work with a new company. That will incur more cost for the worker who already had to pay approximately $9000 to be employed here,

according to Jolovan. “The employer said: ‘If I let one find a new company, then all the others will follow’,” Jolovan recounted before explaining that the employer was acting based on certain perceptions of workers always trying to take advantage of situations. “The laws and policies also don’t help very much in these situations because the employer has a right to cancel any worker’s work permit at any time, without letting the worker have an opportunity to find a new job or to seek redress,” he added. Despite all these challenges, a strong sense of social justice has kept him going in this line of work. A sense of humour is what helps him maintain his “sanity and equilibrium” to prevent burning out. “When you’re burned out, not only do

you suffer, the work suffers, the people you are helping suffers and it’s not fair to them,” he mused. He has a positive feel regarding the awareness of migrant worker problems among Singaporeans, but hold reservations about their interest levels. One reason, he surmised, is our education culture, where students look at the paper chase as the be-alland-end-all, and not education for the sake of edifying oneself or learning to make the world a better place. He said, “I don’t think in this internet age that Singaporean students don’t have access to information, but whether there’s interest or not… Once you’re aware, you’re armed with the knowledge, it’s what you do about it; how you take action to do something about this situation.”

OPINION

IN DEFENCE OF RELIGIOUS OPINIONS Yveena Mariel

he recent debacle with a certain religious group’s flyers shows us that we are sensitive, perhaps even hypersensitive, to differing opinions on religion. I am going to tell you the truth. People believe that their own choice of religion or non-religion is the best and better than others. They would not have made that choice if they didn’t think it was the best. Even atheists have made the choice to believe that there is no God because they think it is better than believing there is one. Let’s be upfront about this. Why are we all baying for blood in outrage because some poor hapless souls had the audacity to speak out for what they believe in? How should we respond then? Let me start with how we should not respond.

THOU SHALT NOT BE QUICK TO LABEL THOSE WHO EXPRESS THEIR OPINIONS AS ‘DEVIANT EXTREMISTS’.

their religion with us are just trying to share what they believe to be best. I mean that is what you would do with your friends if you had something you believed An extremist is ‘a person who to be nice. This writer here has favors or resorts to immoderate, been trying to convince her friend uncompromising, or fanatic methods to watch the TV series ‘Veronica or behavior’. Ask anyone on the Mars’ for ages because it is so street and the word gives them absolutely revolutionary. The TV images of suicide bombers or series star Kristen Bell was probcountries where those of other ably pivotal in changing media religions are thrown into jail and stereotypes of weak ditzy blond tortured inhumanely. There seems high school/college girls into to be an inconsistency between their potential as strong-minded the dictionary meaning of the private investigators (watch as label and the negative connotaI shamelessly stick this here to tions society has placed on it. We encourage all of you to watch label others as extremists simply it too!). All of us have, at some because they voice what they point, tried to convince someone believe to be truth. We react with else to try something simply our animalistic instincts of fear because we thought the world of and isolate the threat from our it. The truth is, while we may not lives. have explicitly said so, we have all insinuated that our choice was I do not believe anyone has held the best choice with our words a knife to our necks (gunpoint at some point of time or another. is probably not an option since The atheist who says that there is firearms are banned in Singapore) no God is effectively saying that and forced us to admit that their those who do believe there is one choice of religion is the best. I are fools. believe that people who share

OPINION

THOU SHALT NOT BE OVERENTHUSIASTIC ABOUT VAGUE TERMS LIKE ‘RESPECTFUL’ AND ‘SENSITIVE’. What do those words mean anyway? Vague standards like these cause us to second-guess everything we wish to say. Like ‘oh no, John might get mad’. Everything and anything under the sun could easily be deemed ‘disrespectful’ or ‘insensitive’. Someone might offer to buy me a drink and I could think they were being disrespectful by implying that I was unable to buy myself one. Someone might give me a smile and I would think they were insensitive because I was grieving for my cactus that just died. Provost was quoted as saying, “what we (NUS) are firm about is that all views expressed by NUS students - indeed any member of the NUS community - are done in a manner that is respectful and in the spirit of academic enquiry….” In my opinion, the criteria for determining whether something is “disrespectful” or “insensitive”

should not be based on whether there is uproar or not. In the first place, how do we measure the extent of discontent we can tolerate? We are essentially taking a reactive position which might be difficult to defend and be consistent with. As a collegiate, we should be allowed to hold strong opinions and not be afraid of dissent. Now, what should we do instead? THOU SHALT LEARN TO INSTIL AN OPEN CULTURE OF DEBATE AND INEVITABLE DISSENT IN THE UNIVERSITY. In classes, we are encouraged to speak on our views. We are encouraged to have a dialogue and to sometimes take a side that is not our own sentiment in a debate. If we are truly to consider ourselves a civilised society, we must be able to embrace differences and resolve tensions without resorting to violence or personal attacks. I believe that we are now able to move beyond ‘tolerance’. We tolerate opinions that

we do not even like in the first place. We should try to listen and learn about other points of view regarding this issue of religion. Differences, when celebrated, can be constructive and help us to understand each other better even if we do not agree. Like the different parts of the body, our different beliefs can be beneficial if we could just stop trying to pretend we are all homogenous. Religion has been around since the dawn of humanity. We cannot just hope our differences away. That is not going to happen. Some may have predicted that as the world becomes more modern and developed, religions will fade. That is not so - it (or the lack of it) is still something very dear and integral both to our private lives and to our society. Therefore, let us no longer be hypersensitive to the fact that one view disagrees with another but rather seek to understand and comprehend how this major issue fits into our own lives. (etsy.com/shop/foultshirts)

OPINION

THE VANISHING VOID DECK

OPINION

Elliot Tan

hink of Singapore and a few images spring immediately to mind - chicken rice, durians, verdant cityscapes, Marina Bay Sands, Orchard Road, and the list goes on. For all its ubiquity, the humble void deck features little in these romanticised imaginations of Singapore that we have. It is hardly surprising then, that the gradual disappearance of the void deck has surreptitiously slipped past our collective consciousness, only emerging as a brief flicker in recent news coverage. It is a fact, though to many a rather inconsequential one, that the common space we share under our homes is shrinking; slowly, but very surely and definitely disappearing. The question then, is this: does the vanishing void deck really matter? And, perhaps even more importantly, should it? For all its unassuming character, the void deck features somewhat prominently in urban planning records as one of the quintessential structures of modern day Singapore. Its origins stem in part from the ideas put forth by Le Corbusier in his conception of the Radiant City — high-rise apartments raised above the ground by pillars, leaving the ground as a ‘gift’ to pedestrians. Many of the Housing Development Board’s (HDB) apartment blocks have thus taken on an urban form that draws influence from Le Corbusier’s model, with the void deck as a prime example. The void deck was built with partly with the intention to create

an open space that facilitates movement and flow, and also the parallel function as a common area for the residents’ use. This open area would provide a space for recreation and for events to be held, while also facilitating informal interaction between residents. From children playing catch under the block, to hosting events of a multifarious nature (the nature of void decks are such that weddings and funerals can be held within days of each other), the void deck has seen it all.

It goes without saying that the provision of facilities enhances the ability of a place to meet certain needs of its people. And yet, it is only upon examining the assumptions that undergird our definition of a ‘facility’ that we realise how much we have narrowed our understanding of the term. A facility could be a physical construction such as a swimming pool or gym that provides a service through its amenities. A facility could also be a place that houses service providers, such as an elderly care As recent developments would centre. And yet, could space — have it, this picture of community empty space — also not count space is not to be for much longer. itself amongst these facilities? In Woodlands, plans have been Its characteristics, while not immade to convert one flat’s void mediately apparent, are strikingly deck into a day-care centre for el- similar to these other ‘facilities’. derly folk. In an effort to provide Through purposeful absence of more facilities for the residents, objects and obstructions, empty space under the apartment blocks spaces facilitate (note the semanare increasingly being taken up by tic relation to ‘facility’) a spirit social service and day-care cenof rested-ness. Pertinent to the tres. It is no mystery that one of vanishing void deck is how we are the assumptions behind this move most insidiously losing maneuverwas that these facilities would in- able space and the open aesthetic deed provide greater utility than below HDB blocks that we have that which an empty space would long taken for granted. be able to. The intention behind the redevelopment of the void Singapore has largely been able to decks therefore comes across as combat the claustrophobia tradisomething rather noble. Indeed, tionally associated with closelyacknowledging the need for a built urban landscapes, largely public space, the HDB has built due to its commitment to creating “precinct pavilions” — common breathing room for citizens. This spaces shared by several blocks breathing room has taken the where residents would hold gath- form of greenery, public parks erings and events. With all these and plazas, but oft forgotten is provisions and good intentions, the visual relief that void decks why then do we still mourn the provide. Imagine walking into an loss of the void deck? unfamiliar, labyrinthine estate,

with narrow corridors, tight turns and the nagging suspicion of a bull-headed half-man appearing around the next corner. Not exactly what you might call a picture of home. With the disappearance of the void decks, we don’t just lose spaces for activity — we lose the flow and uninhibited movement associated with a clear ground floor. We lose infrastructure that supports communal gatherings, and the spontaneity born from chance informal interactions. We lose part of what has allowed HDB blocks to develop organically into vibrant communities of people. This is something that we have to comprehend: empty space is not a waste. While they may seem to contain nothing, it is the very absence of clutter and obstruction that serves to create utility. The sparse form facilitates a host of functions. No conception of home would be complete without acknowledging the role that spaces have to play in facilitating community building and an overall sense of roomy freedom. It is for this very reason that the vanishing void deck should not be something that we let happen with no due consideration or thought. To let it continue to disappear without comment is to do severe disservice to perceptions about the future of housing in Singapore. The void decks may well be going missing, but the void decks will nevertheless be greatly missed. (uebersee.com.sg)

OPINION

CREATING THE PEDALLING CULTURE Shibanshu Mukhopadhyay

iding down two wheels is truly an exhilarating experience, something that gives us another reason to just go out in the open and breathe freely. The feel of the wind rushing against our faces is never more fun, more so when we remember how many calories we are burning as we pedal away vigorously. Unfortunately, the excitement ends when cyclists decide to get onto the main roads within the city, because the saying â&#x20AC;&#x153;speed killsâ&#x20AC;? applies to bicycles just as much as it does to full-fledged cars. That is when they need to be alert and be wary of not just their own movement, but also that of everyone around them. Keeping this in mind, they are forced to re-

duce their speed and conform to a less joyful ride, all for the greater good of humanity. Although such a situation sounds quite sombre, it is essential to observe road safety rules for not just the others on the road, but for themselves as well.

the island, cyclists are required to travel on the main road itself. If they venture onto pedestrian sidewalks, not only is it illegal, they actually become a hassle to those walking on the pavement and as obvious, pose collision hazards.

A bicycle offers neither the speed nor the automotive force of a car, little sacrifices for the thrill of being able to feel our own speed while riding it. However, this also means that in the hapless case of a collision, a cyclist is way more susceptible to injury and possibly even death. This is all the more likely to happen in Singapore because despite all the cycling lovers out here, few places in the island have special lanes reserved solely for cycling. In most places around

Clearly, the easiest solution would be to build lanes exclusive to bicycle riders in more places around Singapore because it really is necessary. As a familiar example, the case of NUS University Town really reinforces this requirement. Despite the connecting bridge to UTown having a special lane, the ride ends at UTown and the law makes it illegal to pedal within the place. For a car-free area as large as that, it would be convenient not only to ride a bike, but

also to construct special lanes for the purpose. Having specialised lanes for going on bicycles would automatically spread popularity for the ride, and bring along with it the many benefits it has to offer. In the current scenario, a few places around Singapore do have this facility but the rules of the road still favor automobiles over bicycles. This is possibly one of the main drawbacks to the spread of a cycling culture in Singapore, because it mechanically encourages people to choose cars over pedals. If cycling was promoted as rigorously as it is in several European countries, by giving priority to it over automobiles, it would be just as successful in Singapore. Out there, it is very common to (vassar.edu)

OPINION

“IMAGINE BEING ABLE TO PICK UP A BICYCLE AT UTOWN AND LEAVING IT AT THE SCIENCE FACULTY. IT WILL PROMOTE A HEALTHY LIFESTYLE AND MIGHT ALSO STOP PEOPLE FROM MOANING ABOUT THE INCONSISTENT FREQUENCY OF THE INTERNAL SHUTTLE BUSES AND NOT BEING ABLE TO GET TO THEIR LESSONS ON TIME.”

see students riding to schools and universities on their bikes, contributing to the already existing cycling culture. In fact, some cities like Amsterdam house twice as many bicycles as compared to people. Therefore Singapore needs not just cycling-exclusive lanes, but also cycling-favoring laws to go with them. This would certainly raise the popularity for this amazing means of transportation. Another idea would be to have ready-available bicycles for rental (better still, free) that students can just pick up on the go and park at multiple destinations. Imagine being able to pick up a bicycle at UTown and leaving it at the Science Faculty. It will promote a healthy lifestyle and might also

stop people from moaning about the inconsistent frequency of the internal shuttle buses and not being able to get to their lessons on time. The best part is, the spread of this culture will bring about a lot of other positive and much-desired changes too. It will reduce our dependence on cars for travel, and this will result in lower fuel consumption. In addition to lowering the use of non-renewable energy sources like fossil fuels, this will also reduce carbon emissions to the atmosphere. Of course, it will also save us expenditure on fuel and part of that money could go into buying cool customisations for our bikes. Furthermore, cycling is an amazing exercise that

makes use of almost all our body muscles in the process. Most importantly, it is a fun exercise and will easily integrate with our daily lives if we can successfully adopt this culture. As with any culture, this one will also have to be created by us – the people. Even if the government builds an extensive network of cycling lanes along with laws that favor cyclists, these would be futile without people out there with their bicycles making use of the facilities. Ultimately it is us who will be using them and there’s no better time than now to get started. When people hit the roads with more bicycles, the government cannot turn a blind eye to the urgent need for cycling lanes

and laws. It will be difficult at first but all good things require hard work. Consider switching to the healthier option. Why wait? Start pedalling away now.

OPINION

(Samples of Kiah Hwee’s works)

OPINION

OPENING PANDORA’S BOX: AN INTERVIEW WITH LOW KIAH HWEE Serene Leong

ow Kiah Hwee, who is better known by fellow artists as Rixou, cheerfully described Pandora’s Scar, her first solo graphic novel published last August. Despite her enthusiasm, she claims that she is not gregarious. “I do like to speak to people about my work with fellow artists. It’s nice to share experiences,” she says.

(left to right: Kiah Hwee’s avatar, Kiah Hwee)

“There was a bi-weekly space in the papers. All of us students would work together and produce a comic,” she said. “The experience really opened my horizon.” “Greek mythology is one of my pet topics,” she said, explaining that the basis of her novel is the myth Pandora’s box. “In it was all the evils of the world and the box was opened, that’s why there’s trouble in the world now,” she describes. “It’s a fantasy but I set it in the modern times.”

as a ‘cute space’ at ION Orchard.

Hwee observes that opportunities for young people to express and Under the Noise Apprenticeship develop their creative talents are Programme, Kiah Hwee is men- growing in Singapore. tored by Sonny Liew, a professional comic artist and illustrator. International conventions such as The Anime Festival Asia and “It’s both inspiring and hum- Singapore Toys Games & Comic bling,” she said. “Sonny is a very Convention will be held this year, established artist, but he is con- while Noise Singapore is currently stantly trying to reach new heights ongoing. to make his work better. It’s a journey that never ends.” “It’s a matter of seizing these opportunities, and producing An accomplished artist today, enough good quality work to exKiah Hwee’s success has not come ploit them,” she said with a laugh. easy. She started out joining little competitions, conventions and Kiah Hwee’s advice to young asevents to progress her work. piring artists in Singapore: “Be prepared to work hard. There will “It’s an industry where you have be days where you feel tired, but it to have a significant body of work should be enjoyable.” before people will approach you. You can’t just draw one nice pic- After all, creative work involves ture and expect people to start both inspiration and a lot of pergiving you commissions. You have spiration. to work hard and go out and meet people,” she said.

The 31-year-old NUS Masters graduate in Architecture became a freelance artist last year to pursue illustrating full-time, deciding With such a curious imagination, that it was the only way to produce Kiah Hwee’s characters are actuher own stories. ally inspired by people she meets everyday. “Qualities of myself also “I’ve always wanted to write my find its way into the characters,” own story,” she says. “If I don’t she said, adding that she drew a take the chance to do it now while number of personal experiences I am still young, I might not get in one of her stories, in which the chance again.” the female lead had to face many changes in her life. Her interest in designing graphic novels started in secondary school Kiah Hwee’s works were showwhen she joined Lianhe Zaobao’s cased at Noise Singapore 2012 Comics Fast Food section as a stu- from 11 February to 4 March, Impressed by the range of art dent reporter. where Pandora’s Scar is being sold talent showcased at Noise, Kiah

(Pictures courtesy of Kiah Hwee)

THECORPORATE ( zombi e)

SURVI VALGUI DE

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BOOK REVIEWS CHIME FRANNY BILLINGSLEY Reviewer: Nurshahiylia Erdina

riony Larkin believes she is a Witch and that she ought to be hanged. After all, she can’t explain the cause of her stepmother’s death and all of the unnaturally natural disasters that have struck her house.

wickedawesomebooks.com

The one striking feature of Chime would be its writing and protagonist. Briony Larkin is an unreliable narrator; a girl with a mind who twists back on itself and wanders off into increasingly complicated knots before unraveling once again. With her, All the while, Briony lives in the reader can never quite be fear of her secret being found - a sure of the truth and the writing hard thing to keep when the one reflects this. Her observations refuge she has is the swamp at the are filled with contradictions, edge of the village, an area rife half-finished thoughts and even with witchy things only she can bits of songs in between. It is see, such as the Old Ones and the lyrical, haunting and trots along spirits who haunt it. Everything the tongue with descriptions such starts to change when Eldric, as, “drifts of moon-peel” and the lion-boy with tawny hair and “itch-ants that tunnel through switch-on eyes, comes along. your bones”.

However, just as Briony’s mind tends to meander, so does the plot. There is never really any driving force that propels the reader forward. The identity of the true ‘villain’ of the book can be easily guessed at a few chapters in, and any conflicts that arise soon after never truly succeed at grabbing the reader’s attention. The slowly budding romance between Briony and Eldric is lovely to read but never really captures the heart either. Chime as a book, unfortunately, is very much the same.

NOTHING TO ENVY: REAL LIVES IN NORTH KOREA BARBARA DEMICK Reviewer: Nicole Kang

“

Mi-ran was the youngest of four girls. In 1973, when she was born, this was as much a calamity in North Korea as it was in nineteenth-century England when Jane Austen wrote in Pride & Prejudice about the plight of a family with five daughters.” Kim Jong-Il’s recent passing away spurred me to discover more about the only (purely) Communist nation left in the world. That line really hooked me because I was drawn to its parallel of a world long past - that of rules, order, service and honour that held the fabric of society dorsher.wordpress.com together. Barbara Demick writes a memoir about the lives of

North Koreans before they defected to South Korea. More importantly, she truly brings out the element of ‘envy’ in her narrative. It may be worth noting that she does not impose her ideological inclinations on the reader. Instead, she gives some concessions to the North Korean regime at the beginning - life before the famine in the 1990s was not as bad as newspapers often portrayed it to be. Although I grew to feel (and sympathise) the injustices of the North Korean system, Demick quite marvellously manages to keep our prejudices at bay by showing the triumph of the human spirit and struggle. More significantly, she focuses on these

North Koreans who continue to struggle, even outside of North Korea. There are, of course, no completely happy endings like Austen’s Pride & Prejudice, as Demick quite pointedly adds in the last two to three chapters of the book. Life does not get infinitely better for the North Koreans, who have been immersed in a culture completely shut out of the world. Instead, some either sink or swim. I was so affected by the subject matter of the book that I appreciated that I have a little more and how fortunate I truly am.

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THE TYPIST MICHAEL KNIGHT Reviewer: Divya Gundlapalli

thestoryisthecure.blogspot.com

have reviewed a lot of mystery books in the past so I thought I should switch it up. The Typist by Michael Knight is a war novel. It is not one of those books that wax lyrical about long drawn tales of the misery of war. Instead, it brings in a lot of ideas on human relationships. This book really did something for me and I cannot quite describe it.

through an unlikely candidate; Van, an expert typist who can type up to ninety five words a minute sitting in the office of General MacArthur.

Although The Typist chronicles the politics of war (please do not run away when you read this), it quite accurately depicts the fragile fabric of relationships so easily broken apart by war.

Van’s days drag on while the world bustles with activity given the abundance of the black market goods. Luckily for Van, the drudgery of the office of the Honour Guards (some may call this a ‘well-ordered’ life) is broken with him being appointed in a unique role as the care-taker of MacArthur’s 8-year-old son. I completely loved this addition to the book because we rarely

I know you might think that this seems like something which all war novels are centred on but what makes this novel different is that Knight tells the story

No tales of gruesome battles, snipers or heroic love affairs are going to be found in this book, yet that adds a refreshing perspective to the book.

see children being talked about in war novels. I liked how the child-caretaker relationship was developed in the book as well. Of course, war novels cannot escape talking about romance so we do see periodic stories of Van’s roommate being involved with a bar hostess. But the book is not all about stories; it also poses intriguing questions about the life of people at the time. Can someone truly take life into their own hands despite it being riddled with unpredictability and economic hardship? If so, how? These questions are answered in the book through the introduction of other characters but Van’s story is perhaps the most touching of them all.

MOVIE REVIEW THE WOMAN IN BLACK 15 MARCH 2012 Reviewer: Vivian Leung

Shaw Theatres

ne of the first things that comes to mind upon seeing the movie poster would be “hey! Harry Potter!” Yes, it’s Potter all grown up as the protagonist Arthur Kipps in this adaptation of a Susan Hill novel of the same name, and possibly Daniel Radcliffe’s chance at creating a new image for himself away from Harry Potter which has dogged him all these years.

Not that it’s a bad thing to be inextricably linked with The Boy Who Lived, but I’m sure that he would like to be known for his other roles too. There’s just something unappealing about being fitted into a single stereotype; it is almost as though your entire personality has been forcibly reduced from the complex mass that it is suppose to be.

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You will have to forgive me for harping on Harry Potter when this is actually a review of ‘The Woman in Black’, but the cast is unmistakably a reminder of the former. Although less recognisable, Ciarán Hinds, who plays Sam Daily in ‘The Woman in Black’ also comes from the Harry Potter cast, having played the role of Aberforth Dumbledore in The Deathly Hallows. Harry Potter aside, Daniel Radcliffe sure does look very grown-up in this supernatural thriller, where he plays the role of a lawyer and a father. His reel-life son, Joseph Kipps, is played by Misha Handley who is actually Radcliffe’s godson in real life. ‘The Woman in Black’ is dark and carries a sense of foreboding in all scenes, which is very befitting of its title and theme. Although critics have lambasted the film for delivering a traditional thriller that’s a little tame for horror movie-goers, it is also nice to have some good old horror that doesn’t rely too much on visual shock. Having already been shown in the US and Europe since early February, the film has been an unexpected financial success with generally favourable reviews. So, do catch this movie if you have the time this March, and indulge in a good old-fashioned thriller that will never disappoint - not too much, anyway.

WHAT’S IN MY IPOD? Nicole Kang

I Will Always Love You Whitney Houston

Everybody Talks Neon Trees

Somebody that I Used to Know Gotye ft. Kimbra

Witchcraft Pendulum

The Cave Mumford & Sons

Lasso Phoenix

Houdini Foster the People

Forever Yours Charlie McDonnell and Alex Day

Walking on a Dream Empire of the Sun

‘The Woman in Black’ will be released in theatres on 15 March 2012.

rateyourmusic.com, live105.radio.com, gotye.bigcartel.com, mrkayrell. blogspot.com, 991.com, pallmusic.com, trendland.net, alexday.bandcamp.com, buddyhead.com

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‘

MOSAIC MUSIC FESTIVAL 2012:

THE PEACE OF OUR SOULS He Yining

usic is a celebration and reflection of life. It utters the inexpressible, reproduces pain for enjoyment and inspires to the point of implosion. At the same time, it allows us to reach out to someone else who is distinct but the same. As photographer Kristin Martz expresses, “We lose ourselves in the things we love; we find ourselves there, too,” and none truer than our love for music. It is, therefore, appropriate that this year’s eighth edition

of Mosaic Music Festival from 9 to 18 March 2012 should revel in the theme of Peace. It is also held in conjunction with Esplanade’s tenth anniversary themed ‘Celebrating Life - The best of the Human Spirit through the Arts’. The festival embraces the ability of music to both sharpen awareness of the self and bridge cultural and geographical differences. It aims to transport audiences simultaneously to the far ends of the world and deep into ourselves.

Mosaic promises diverse performances from local and international artistes, perfect for our celebration of a borderless world. We can come together for a mosaic of musical experiences as a tribute to the peace in our souls and to achieve a fuller understanding of humankind.

readers are performances by young homegrown musicians such as Bright Young Things and Gentle Bones, startling showcases of the musical sensibilities of our generation. There are also many other free outdoor performances NUS students can stop by during a stroll in the city.

Taking place during the NUS academic weeks eight and nine, Mosaic is a great avenue for peace in an increasingly cluttered semester of noise and deadlines. Especially interesting to our

THE RIDGE highlights some must-watch performances here:

TICKETED

IMAGINE: A SOUNDTRACK TO PEACE

DATE | 10 MARCH (SAT) VENUE | ESPLANADE CONCERT HALL ADMISSION | $25 (LIMITED CONCESSIONS FOR STUDENT), $40, $60 Named after John Lennon’s Ramli Sarip, Zul Tania, Cat iconic song ‘Imagine’, this concert Ong, Art Fazil, Jon Chan, Ling is an inaugural production by Kai, and Malaysian pop star Mosaic to celebrate peace and Yuna. In addition, the special brotherhood. No performance musical guests are awardrenders the theme as well as winning American jazz songbird this, as the concert brings Stacey Kent and her husband, diverse performers and saxophonist Jim Tomlinson, the audiences together under the Bossarenova Trio and Spanish band of music. It features many indie musician Russian Red. homegrown talents including (Photos Courtesy of Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay)

CRAFT SPELLS

DATE | 10 MARCH (SAT) | 10 – 11 P.M. VENUE | ESPLANADE THEATRE STUDIO ADMISSION | $40, $48* (FOR TICKET PURCHASED ON DAY OF PERFORMANCE) Craft Spells is the epitome of Completing their travels around a modern do-it-yourself band. the world after their tour of Discovered by the blogosphere, Europe and America, Craft Justin Paul Vallester and his live Spells takes on Mosaic Music band are proof that substantive Festival. talent is more important than a glitzy package. Craft Spells started as a bedroom pop music project, but has since released their single ‘Party Talk’ and their debut album ‘Idle Labor’.

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NON-TICKETED

TOE

DATE | 15 MARCH (THU) AND 16 MARCH (FRI) 7.30 – 8.30 P.M., 10 – 11 P.M. VENUE | ESPLANADE THEATRE STUDIO Famed for their explosive guitars, the Rhodes piano and live performances, Toe is an vibraphone. They are also one instrumental rock band from of the bands on the indie label Japan. It was formed in 2000, Machu Picchu, with an album and has since developed a unique ‘For Long Tomorrow’ and DVD instrumental sound with rock ‘CUTDVD’ under their belt. motifs, incorporating acoustic

BRIGHT YOUNG THINGS

DATE | 10 MARCH (SAT) AND 11 MARCH (SUN) | 5.15 – 6 P.M. VENUE | ESPLANADE CONCOURSE Bright Young Things is a jazz led by teachers such as jazz bassist mentorship programme in its Dr Tony Makarome, pianist third year. A regular part of Joshua Wan, drummer Soh Wen Mosaic, this programme aims to Ming and vocalist Melissa Tham. identify and nurture the local 18- This year, these bright young to 23-year-old musical talents. things bring fresh interpretations These young jazz musicians are to canonical jazz music.

THE M.I.G.

DATE | 14 MARCH (WED) 7 – 7.40 P.M., 8 – 8.40 P.M., 9 – 9.40 P.M., 10 – 10.40 P.M. VENUE | ESPLANADE OUTDOOR THEATRE Few bands are as iconic of peace night. The M.I.G. consists of as The Beatles. Their songs guitarists Casey Subramanian bring a peace to our hearts and and Daniel Wilson, bassist minds. Join local band The Clement Yang, keyboardist M.I.G. as they revive decades Anthony Kwah and drummer of Beatlemania in one magical Rizal Sanip.

TROPIC GREEN

DATE | 9 MARCH (FRI) 10 – 10.40 P.M., 11 – 11.40 P.M. VENUE | ESPLANADE OUTDOOR THEATRE Tropic Green is a band situated as they first came together in Singapore, but consists of to perform Susan Harmer‘s members from around the world: jazz compositions. They were the USA, Japan and Singapore. also awarded the Singapore They are a true demonstration of International Foundation grant in a world united by music. Tropic 2011 to participate in the Samui Green is especially famous for International Jazz Festival. their original masterpieces,

NICHOLAS CHIM

DATE | 13 MARCH (TUES) | 8 – 8.40 P.M., 10 – 10.40 P.M. VENUE | ESPLANADE OUTDOOR THEATRE Homegrown singer-songwriter seven-person folk band, bringing Nicholas Chim has performed us tunes from Chim’s latest his unique brand of indie folk albums ‘Forgiefan’ and ‘I Have to audiences around Singapore, Damned Every Moment Over’. Malaysia, Australia and Japan. This festival, Nicholas Chim will bring his friends to perform as a

GENTLE BONES

DATE | 17 MARCH (SAT) 5.30 – 6 P.M. VENUE | ESPLANADE CONCOURSE Joel Tan, or better known as Gentle Bones, is a promising Singaporean youth who started with a bedroom music project. He wishes to put out music as long as people are willing to listen.

(Photos Courtesy of Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay, suharmer.com/tropicgreen.html, mask9.com, facebook.com/gentlebonesmusic)

ENTERTAINMENT

PAVING THE WAY FOR INDIE MUSIC Nicole Kang

The Laneway Music Festival was a blast. It was truly a treat for indie music listeners and I was truly glad to be a part of the experience. This year, the festival attracted approximately 7800 people, up from 6000 the previous year. Words canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t possibly capture the mind-blowing experience of meeting up close with these giants in the indie music scene. Enjoy the photo montage!

MEDIA TENT

(Photos by Nina Sandejas, Dawn Chua, Glenn Yong c/o Chugg Entertainment)

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STAGE

(Photos by Aloysius Lim, Ryan Chang, Nina Sandejas, Dawn Chua, & Glenn Yong c/o Chugg Entertainment)

ENTERTAINMENT

ANDY WARHOL:

15 MINUTES ETERNAL 17 MARCH TO 12 AUGUST 2012

Anupama Hegde

ndy Warhol is synonymous with most things in pop culture. His representations of products of mass consumption have become iconic emblems of the capitalist, consumerist society we live in (Campbell’s soup, anyone?). So what better way to showcase the life of this pop-art guru than in a museum exhibit with not one but four galleries depicting each glorious stage of his prolific career? From 17 March onwards, be sure to make time from your midterm-filled schedule to head to Marina Bay Sands. Yes, the landmark hotel’s famous ArtScience Museum is going to be home to the Andy Warhol: 15 Minutes Eternal exhibition. This exhibition has been brought to Singapore by BNY Mellon and the Andy Warhol Museum in Pittsburgh (Warhol’s hometown!). It is being advertised as “the largest collection of Warhol’s artwork ever displayed in Singapore” – and with a tagline

1 like this, you realise that 15 Minutes Eternal is no ordinary art display. Anyone can look up Warhol’s paintings online, but just how often do you get a chance to feast your eyes on rare memorabilia? With 15 Minutes Eternal, you can gain entry into the multifarious aspects of Warhol’s life. Documents, photographs, videos, interactive timelines, archived material – there is certainly no shortage of information for all you ‘Warholians’ out there. And this in-depth look into Warhol’s life is, according to me, exactly why you cannot miss this exhibition, or rather, magnum opus!

is exactly what this exhibition does as well. Mr Nick Dixon, executive director of the ArtScience Museum, firmly attests to this by making reference to the immense talent Warhol had in taking something simple – mundane, almost - and turning it into pure art. At its very core, Warhol’s art served as a platform for him to comment on culture – not highculture, but the popular culture that we all live and breathe in our everyday lives. I can’t speak any plainer: You certainly do not need to be an artist to appreciate Warhol’s art!

I mentioned earlier that 15 Minutes Eternal will comprise But what about those of you who of four galleries to mark the four are not budding artists? Wouldn’t distinct phases of Warhol’s career. you rather spend your money on a This, I think, is yet another movie? I hear you, because I’m no unique feature of the exhibition. art connoisseur myself. However, Warhol’s works are not being 15 Minutes Eternal, I believe, has treated as a homogenous entity, something for everyone. Andy but each work is allowed to shine Warhol was no artist for the in its own right. After all, which elites. His works appealed to the artist doesn’t go through different sensibility of the masses, and that phases in the course of his or

2 her career? Which artist doesn’t produce works that are gloriously different yet when put together; create an integrated, complex whole? You will begin your Warhol journey at, well, the beginning! You will gain access to the early years of his life in the 1940s and 1950s with actual drawings he made as a child. You heard that right, you are literally getting a chance to see the inception of the legendary artist! Next, you will be transported into ‘the Factory Years’, where you will

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after his death. So be sure not to miss Andy Warhol: 15 Minutes Eternal and get ready to immerse yourself in (and take inspiration from) Warhol’s world. He may have popularised the phrase ‘15 minutes of fame’, but his brilliant works and knack for seeing the extraordinary in the ordinary surely garnered him a lifetime of recognition! ***

5 Finally, you will be drawn into the last few years of Warhol’s life, a period that actually gave birth to some of his best works. ‘The Last Supper’ is one such unforgettable painting, which will be displayed in this exhibition. Additionally, you will see his Endangered Species series, and the Rorschach ‘ink-blot’ drawings which have revolutionised the field of psychoanalysis.

4 encounter his iconic ‘Campbell’s Soup’ and ‘Marilyn Monroe’ pop-art, amongst many other legendary masterpieces. This exhibition, being an interactive one, will also give you a chance to dress up in Warhol-esque costumes and have your own ‘15 minutes of fame’, complete with a photo-shoot to capture the experience! Once your 15 minutes are over, you can enter the next phase of Warhol’s life and career – ‘Exposures’. Here you will see

the shift in Warhol’s focus from pop-art to actual polaroids and photographs of celebrities. Warhol completely revolutionised the ‘celebrity culture’ that is so familiar to us today, and with this exhibition, you get to witness that revolution as if from the eyes of Warhol himself. It was during this period that he also became fascinated with time capsules (Yes, Warhol did not just stick to conventional canvas and paint!), one of which you will see on display at the museum.

Tickets for Andy Warhol: 15 Minutes Eternal are selling at SGD15 for non-Singapore resident adults and SGD13 for Singapore resident adults. You can purchase the tickets online or at the Marina Bay Sands Box Office. The ArtScience Museum is open daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.. For more information, you can visit  www.marinabaysands. com/ArtScienceMuseum

Warhol was not just an artist, his talent extended into celluloids as well. The 1980s bore witness to his ‘Andy Warhol’s 15 minutes’ (the namesake for this 1) Flowers, 1964 exhibition!) and you will get an Acrylic, silkscreen ink, and opportunity to watch it in person. pencil on linen Last but definitely not the least, 48 x 48 in. 15 minutes eternal will showcase, just as Warhol did in Switzerland 2) Self-Portrait, 1963-1964 in 1983, a display of art from a Acrylic and silkscreen ink child’s perspective. Toy paintings on linen will be mounted at a lower eye20 x 16 in. level, for the young and old to enjoy. Remember when I said that 3) Self-Portrait, 1986 this exhibition had something for Acrylic and silkscreen ink everyone? I wasn’t kidding! on linen 80 x 76 in. Warhol’s work has had innumerable, far-reaching 4) Untitled (Sam), ca. 1954 influences. From media to Ink, graphite, and Dr. advertising, cinema to the Martin’s Aniline dye on corporate world, the Warhol Strathmore paper spirit is alive and roaring long 23 x 14 1/2 in.

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(Drawing the attention of (Cellist, Sylvia Luse and Founder (and

(left to right: Mrs. Bennet, Lee Gek

the room with his noble mien,

(Elizabeth Bennet,

violinist), Amanda Aston)

Ling and Mr. Collins, Dr. Peter Tan)

Mr. Darcy, Tim Supramaniam)

Margy Supramaniam)

WHEN AUSTEN BECKONS PART II Nicole Kang

“Imagine to yourself everything most profligate and shocking in the way of dancing and sitting down together...” - Jane Austen to Cassandra, 1796

ndeed, imagine to yourself everything most Austenesque in the way of conversation and sipping tea. Nothing of a “profligate” or “shocking” nature took place there.

passion - to cultivate a greater appreciation for Austen and her novels. And I think they pulled it off - with elegance and grace. Honestly, even Lady Catherine would have approved.

authentic setting. By serendipity, I found the role of Caroline Bingley (from Pride & Prejudice) thrust on me and also participating in the minuet dance demonstration.

As usual, there was English tea, scones, clotted cream and chamber music to set the mood of the event. Held at St. George’s Church, it truly provided the atmosphere of a Regency tea session.

Like Rudyard Kipling’s short story The Janeites, a short story about a group of World War I soldiers who admired Austen’s novels, JACS put on a different kind of armour to conquer the affections of their audience, which comprised the curious and bewildered to the closet Janeite.

I wasn’t sure if I did justice to the role, but it was just as well if I did not. I don’t think I would like to be accused of haughty manners! Of course, I was not the only local in this motley cast. We were delighted to have Dr Peter Tan and his wife (Lee Gek Ling) take on the roles of Mr Collins and Mrs Bennet.

The Jane Austen Valentines Regency Tea was a great follow-up to last December’s intimate tea session by the Jane Austen Circle of Singapore (JACS). Despite coming from vastly different backgrounds, the Jane Austen Valentine’s Regency Tea was brought together by a common

I suppose some may think that I’d be obliged to give a positive review of the event given my “Austen affliction” and involvement in the event. Rest assured, I am certain that the audience was very much enamoured with the

They truly brought out the spirit of their respective characters. Having heard them perform their lines before, I still found myself giggling when Gek Ling took the stage (highly improper behaviour

for a lady!). She played Mrs Bennet with much gusto, and I’m sure the audience agreed with me too. Never have I considered myself much of a dancer (or even graceful walker). I blush to admit that my experience has largely been limited to amateur line-dancing from my primary school days. However, Darcy (from Pride & Prejudice) said that “[e]very savage can dance.” It was perhaps the only consolation I gave myself before the dance, considering the intimidating nature of the situation. After all, it is only human nature to imagine the audience judging your every move and curtsy. It then dawned on me the pressure to perform in Austen’s day.

ENTERTAINMENT

Learning to Love Austen But now you love [Austen]. So much the better. You have gained a new source of enjoyment, and it is well to have as many holds upon happiness as possible… Northanger Abbey, Jane Austen. Many of my friends know about my ‘Austen affliction’, ‘passion’, ‘obsession’- the adjectives used to describe it have not been any less exaggerated. The third always makes me bristle a little because Austen herself would roll in her grave if she ever heard that word. Drama queen she was not.

(Strings East: Amanda Aston with Michelle Harrison (violins) and Sylvia Luse (cello) and Graeme Gunn on clarinet and Paul Supramaniam at the piano)

Your partner would circle around you, as if judging your assets your physical figure and wealth. Truly, “to be fond of dancing is a certain step towards falling in love.” Or at least a certain step towards securing a suitor. Daunting indeed! It may be worth noting that I was only performing a simple minuet dance. With all these thoughts going through my mind, I dare say that the audience was more amused (or charmed; it was hard to tell through the shifting skirts) by the dancing, especially since we were in costume. For the curious, you can now find JACS on Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/pages/ Jane-Austen-Circle-Singapore. You can also watch the Channel NewsAsia coverage of the event

posted on the wall. If you find yourself enamoured of the short demonstration, you can join us for a dance lesson on 21 April. Are you a closet Janeite? You could also attend JACS’s first book club meeting on 2 May, Wednesday. I’ll be there to help the book club. Rest assured, there will be tea and scones for the exam-weary. It promises to be a light session of mingling and reading. If you would like to be on their mailing list, you can e-mail Margaret Supramaniam (margaret@ lawasia.com) or Amanda Aston (aaston98@googlemail.com).

I’m much more partial to the word ‘affection’ instead. I have long nursed an affection for her novels that I could never quite describe rationally to people. I’m not sure how it happened, but it did. And I have not looked back since. Imagine my ecstasy when I learnt that my affections were finally being reciprocated. Before I knew it, Amanda (JACS founder) asked me to be a part of their play and dance. It felt like I was in a relationship that was moving too fast. The Jane Austen Valentine’s Regency Tea felt like my coming-out ball.

(Nicole Kang)

primetime television in the US and UK) is so popular. Despite living in a postmodern age, we continue to be attracted to this period where one’s word, manners and honour meant something.

I suppose your brows would be raised at such uh… obsession. Isn’t it just ‘sophisticated cosplay’ or an excuse for adults to play pretend? Such objections are not unwarranted by many wary of the anime cosplay fans.

Of course, I may be looking through a haze of muslin since one has to consider its multiple drawbacks too. I don’t find myself wishing to live in that period, but I have learnt to appreciate its finer virtues that are largely absent in this world. It has brought me inspiration and joy in multiple ways.

On the contrary, I believe that Austen brings a world of order into the current state of chaos. It is why ‘Downton Abbey’ (currently conquering

And now, I am unabashed to say that I am happily married to JACS’s purpose and will continue to be for a long time to come. (Photos by Tamara Jane Lenz)

LIFESTYLE

ENTERING ENTREPRENEURSHIP Teresa Widodo

ome of us might love to dig into the Net to find out the average starting salary for our field of study. Yahoo! Singapore revealed that, instead of worrying about Singapore’s GDP, Singaporeans are more concerned about the job opportunities. According to a research conducted by Nielsen, Singaporeans are highly pessimistic of their job prospects. Statistically, the number of jobs offered per person in NUS career fair decreased from 29.17 to 28.97 in 2012. However, fret not! As the saying goes, if there is no way, we should make one. And what better way to earn some money than by starting your own business and being your own boss? THE RIDGE brings you some useful start-up tips to note down by L’Oreal’s Marketing Manager, Janice Hu.

[Janice Hu]

THE EARLY BIRDS Why it is advantageous and disadvantageous to start your business earlier… It is said that you are only young once. The strong youthful instinct to be adventurous, creative and eager to take risks will surely give a positive value to a young entrepreneur. In addition, Janice says that having youth on his or her side, a young entrepreneur will be able to do more in a day since they tire less (remember those sleepless nights every time you try to

DO YOU HAVE WHAT IT TAKES? finish piles of assignments?).

The criteria

However, it is undeniable that the younger someone is, the less experienced they will be. Janice explained, “Disadvantages would be the lack of experience to fall back on and sometimes they may need to take the long way round at the start before reaping any benefits. The lack of ready, available capital in information, resources and networks which take time to build up might also be other disadvantages.”

Being your own boss is, of course, something that many people drool about. But, do you have what it takes? Janice mentioned some musthave qualities of a young entrepreneur: • Eagerness to run your own business in your blood (it is innate, after all!) • Strong determination • Good time management and knowing your priorities

• Try to obtain more entrepreneurial skill. Janice says, “By searching for solutions and by taking a keen interest in your business and wanting it to succeed, you naturally want to look for good and effective solutions to help your business run smoothly.” • Know your weaknesses. Being young means being less experienced and having a lack of networks, but you can always fix that.

LIFESTYLE

Chye Nyit Fhen, Heng Xue-Li, and Jonathan Chan Wei Hao Singapore National Winners - Brandstorm 2011

Janice shared some tips in gaining more experience and expanding your networks. “As a student, submerge yourself in as many different avenues as possible.” Participating in programmes that will sharpen your entrepreneurial skill is a must. An example is L’Oreal Brandstorm which is an annual world marketing competition that gives students the rare opportunity to take on the role of a brand manager and imagine a new product line for one of L’Oreal’s many international brands. Janice added, “Competitions like these provide students with real world experience and allow them to assess if this is indeed the career they wish to embark on.” To expand your network, you can participate in networking sessions with alumni or join some business forums. And, thank God for Facebook, you can always use social media to join groups where you can meet people from different business backgrounds! Looks like it’s time to dig up your NUS e-mails and find the upcoming networking sessions and business competitions, readers!

GET STARTED

dollars? If so, then the R&D or the product development part of your business might be more important than marketing.” In other words, you should know your goals and evaluate the key priority.

Last but not least, marketing and advertisement can be According to Janice, you can something expensive for get started with as little as $100 students. However, living in or as much as half a million Singapore, one of the most dollars. It really depends on well-connected countries in what kind of business you are the world with significantly going to start. If you need more high Facebook engagement money, there are always kind Once your business is settled, level, you can always make use investors out there who look for you might need to do some of social media as a free yet young talents and will willingly evaluation and know when to effective marketing strategy. give some grants. On getting expect more or when to stop. Thus, you can effortlessly grants, Janice said that all you However, there is no definite setting up a Facebook account need is a good (or, even better, time span to know whether the to interact with your potential great) business idea that you put company is going to work or customers or reach out to into a proposal. The proposal not. You have to know the area influential online bloggers and should show what your aim of the business and decide when ask them to write some positive is, how to reach that and what an evaluation is needed (that is reviews about your products. results the investors can expect. why you need to have a business However, be aware that the Janice emphasised, “It is also instinct in your blood). Janice very advantage of social media important to show within your explained, “For example, a plan and the Internet might be a business plan that your plan has on starting an online shopping disadvantage as well since ‘legs’ - that in execution, it will site might require less time than people can also write negative be possible to carry the idea out that of running a new yogurt things. It all depends on what since most times, good plans concept shop since the latter is said online. On this matter, fail at execution points.” might have more considerations Janice believes that social media of rental and location more a boon than a bane and As soon as you get started, requirements which might as long as you use it well, the you might need to know take more time to evaluate. If resource benefit will be a strong your priorities well. On how you have worked out all the advantage. to manage your priorities, considerations of your plan and Janice answered, “Priorities there is still something that are endless, but you need to doesn’t seem to work despite consider what the heart of your the fact that you have explored business is. Is your business several different options, you something that can survive should consider changing your on a PR platform rather than plan, or parts of the plan.” supporting it with marketing

LIFESTYLE

Vera Li

lexander may look like the common college student but his world is markedly different from ours. He has had the privilege to be part of another realm—the world of magic (unfortunately not the wizarding world of Harry Potter). Each magical production is borne out of skillful coordination between the root technicalities of the craft and Alexander’s sincerity in sharing his world of wonder. Alongside his commitment as a full-time psychology honours student at NUS, he also started Meta Illusions with two magician friends to offer their services to anyone willing to fill the role of audience — for a reasonable fee, of course. As mysterious as the craft may be, an interview with Alexander allowed for some probing into the heart of magic and dispelled a little of that anxious curiosity non-practitioners of magic often develop. On a laidback Monday afternoon, I had the honour to meet with Alexander and his two friends for some casual conversation over coffee. How and when did you get into magic? I first encountered magic when I was 15. A friend of mine showed me a couple of automatic tricks and I instantly knew that this was something I would want to do. Can you explain what “automatic tricks” mean? Automatic tricks can be simply understood as easy moves. Beginners usually start off with these. These tricks achieve their result by playing on human perception errors or mathematical principles. Why do you think that people often stereotype magicians negatively? It’s always easy to dismiss something that you’re not personally involved or interested in. I am aware of the magiciansare-flirts stereotype and have also been accused of it. So is there actually any truth to the accusations? (Laughs) Honestly, no. I’m only speaking for myself though. Magic is great for building rapport with people, but oftentimes it impedes rather than facilitates the development of any relationship.

How so? I honestly dislike it when people identify me solely as a magician. I had a really bad experience in junior college - people approached me only to ask for demonstrations. When I didn’t have new tricks and tried to make small talk instead, they just walked away. In this sense, my identity as magician was a tricky terrain to navigate.

ALEXANDER YUEN

visual information and also how they allocate their attention to objects. I use this information to create magic, simply by tapping on the fundamental, innate human processes.

Meta Illusions has provided entertainment for people of different age groups. Do children, as compared to adults, make better audiences? I personally prefer children, and To think I actually thought that it’s not because they make my job magic would make life easier for easier. They are actually difficult one... to fool. Unlike adults, they do In terms of making friends, no. not have preconceptions of how But mastering performance magic things work. That makes it very really did make me more sensitive difficult for me to find something to the nuances and subtleties of to work around. Nevertheless, I human behaviour. Perhaps you like performing for children best can say that it becomes easier because their reactions are the because manipulation suddenly most unexpected ones. becomes second-nature. No illintentions are involved, of course. Do you bring magic into your real-life relationships? I don’t Manipulation in what sense? mean in terms of the tricks, Can you provide a little context? but rather the conscious I would think so in terms of manipulation of atmosphere. making conversation. Because I No. Although I love magic, when have been well-trained in terms not performing, I like to keep my of observing people, I find it interactions with people close to quite easy to steer a conversation me separate from my art. towards a desired end. Also, my background in psychology “ I think that there is no art complements my art. I studied without money” cognitive psychology. That makes me aware of how people process

THE HEART OF MAGIC

The first reason is due to how being labeled “magician” trivialises my intrinsic self. Secondly, I like my relationships real. I like them to develop naturally. Do you have anything else you would like to share? I think that there is no art without money. I don’t mean that I do magic for money. The truth is that without money, there is no way we can keep magic in the loop. Magic performance needs to provide a sense of novelty from time to time to sustain interest in the audience. I’m sure you wouldn’t want to see the same old tricks all the time, right? We need money to purchase the necessary equipment and perhaps build a new set. It is an expensive craft, no doubt, but it is something that I would like to pursue full-time. Even if I end up having to work odd jobs to pay for my daily expenses because the trade isn’t profitable enough, I’d be willing to do so. I seriously considered busking too. I believe a lot in chasing my dreams. I’m not exactly oblivious to how it may not work out very well in the end, but I’d still like to give it a try so that I don’t regret.

LIFESTYLE

MAAD ABOUT ART

Ong Li Wen Rachel

nce a month, an unassuming bright red building tucked away in Maxwell Road comes alive to a completely different beat. On typical days it houses a museum, but today isn’t a typical day. As the evening unfolds, the quiet murmur of energy and excitement emanating from The Market of Artists and Designers (MAAD) slowly develops into a loud and contagious buzz. MAAD is a five year old event that regularly attracts more than 50 homegrown designers and artists who come here to hawk their wares to the 5,000 or so visitors that come through its doors each night. Its pull factor is no surprise MAAD is the first event of its kind to provide local creative talent with an opportunity to prove their mettle and build up a

loyal following of customers. The unique and quaint offerings on sale also make MAAD a haven for those seeking respite from annoyingly crowded flea markets and its mass-produced goods. Over the years, MAAD has developed a kind of symbiotic kinship with its stallholders. Many of these artists and designers faithfully participate in the event to show their appreciation for the space that MAAD has provided them with to showcase their talents.

tive feedback on her craftsmanship. She describes MAAD as an accessible springboard to entering the creative industry, where art and design aficionados can also forge friendships with like-minded people. Tiffany’s line of bags is also sold at Woods in the Books on Club Street and Supermama, a retail gallery on Seah Street.

The fact that the event is held against the backdrop of awardwinning art exhibits is intriguing in itself, but the plethora of goods on sale is the ultimate treat for all those in attendance. One of the familiar faces in the There are clothes, bags, whimsicrowd is NUS graduate Tiffany cal handmade cards and jewelry, Loy, who regularly sets up shop vintage cameras, food stands and there to sell her own line of hand- even tarot card reading services made bags. After learning about that will leave no visitor - affecMAAD from a friend, she took tionately known as MAADsters up a stall hoping that she could - unsatisfied. gain exposure as well as construc-

Later in the night, sit down on the faux grass patch and take in the sounds of local musicians like The Cheating Sons and Inch Chua. If live music doesn’t quite tickle your fancy, Portraits after Dark may just interest you. Starting at 7.30 p.m., bask in a bounty of attention from ten artists from the Organisation of Illustrators, as each of them draws you a portrait of yourself. Afterwards, you can pick your favourite to take home for just ten dollars. MAAD is held on either the first or second Friday of each month at the Red Dot Design Museum. Whether you’re in need of an alternative form of retail therapy, some live music or a low-key spot to spend the night with your friends, MAAD will surely come to the rescue.

LIFESTYLE

OPERATION GASTRONOMIA: MY SECRET ITALIAN AFFAIR Goh Bang Rui

f you are as big on Italian fare as I am, you will definitely not be disappointed with the spread THE RIDGE has prepared for you this month.

Spizza – With your friends www.spizza.sg

Delivery Hotline: (+65) 6377 7773 Delivery Timing: 12:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m., 6:00 p.m. – 10:30 p.m. (Monday to Sunday) Faced with a truckload of deadlines, exams looming, and piles of uncompleted readings, the tried-and-tested solution is to indulge in a good dose of comfort food. And what makes better comfort food than crusty dough layered with rich, chewy cheese and a whole host of flavourful ingredients you can hold in one hand while writing with the other. Instead of the usual lineup of pizzerias, excite your tastebuds and call in great oven-baked pizzas without any compromise on the quality. If you’re still wondering about the source of these yummy thin-crusted pizzas, fret no more. Your answer is Spizza and it’s just a mere click or call away.

Rebecca Pizza

For a more unique experience, Spizza introduces a Star Pizza which features either unique pizza toppings or specialty dough with popular flavours such as spinach or squid ink. If you’re on the healthy side, whole-wheat dough is also available. Diners with particular preferences can also opt to customise their pizzas with the large variety of toppings and olive oil-marinated spices available. One of the new dishes on the menu is the tasty, delicately-kneaded potato dumplings, also known as Gnocchi ($17). Served in a gratin tray along with gorgonzola, cream and cooked ham, this dish creates a tingling sensation on your tongue when the warm cheese and ham mixes gently with the soft and chewy potato dumplings. If you’re a vegetarian or prefer a non-meat version, you can always opt for Gnocchi with gorgonzola, cream and green peas ($16).

Isabella in Gondola Shape

Gnocchi with Cooked Ham [Courtesy of Sixth Sense Communications & PR Consultancy]

Last but not least, how can an eatery famed for “serving irresistible wood-fired Italian pizzas with gusto” go without an introduction to its pizzas? Spizza offers up to 26 flavours and pizzas are available in either medium (10 inch) or large (12 inch) sizes. Interestingly, their pizzas are also named after classic Italian females. One of my personal favourite is Ursula ($19/ $23). Generously loaded with tomato, mascarpone, spinach, smoked salmon and capers, this pizza provides a light-tasting dish which fills you up without the fishy aftertaste. If you’re up for a challenge, try switching your regular round pizzas for a Venice-inspired Gondola shape (take a step on the wild side). You might just fall head over heels for the fluffier crust on the outside which perfectly complements the juicy filling on the inside. Do take note to call in advance if you are ordering via the website or through calling, the delivery will take around an hour as your orders are prepared on the spot once confirmed. Now that’s what I call fresh!

LIFESTYLE

3 Temasek Boulevard, Singapore 038983 Hotline: (+65) 6333 1507

Mad For Garlic www.madforgarlic.com.sg

Dracula Killer [photo from Goh Bang Rui]

Max Brenner Chocolate Bar (Esplanade Mall)

This restaurant was founded in Korea in 2001, and this restaurant chain moved to the sunny island of Singapore to serve excellent Italian cuisine. One glimpse of the name gives the main ingredient away: Garlic. Unless you’re a regular vampire (not the sparkling-in-the-sunlight variety), you won’t be disappointed by the wide variety of dishes available inspired by the secret ingredient. The chef has managed to infuse the ingredient into almost every dish. Surprisingly, the taste of the garlic is not as overwhelming as I would have thought for the starter, “Dracula Killer” ($9.90), a dish of soft bread to be eaten with chunks of wellcooked garlic dipped in olive oil and anchovies. One of the highly recommended pizzas is Garlic Snowing Pizza ($19.90). This thin-crust pizza is one of Mad For Garlic’s specialty where sweetness is concerned. Topped with shrimp and diced pineapple, you can almost forget the presence of the garlic once you take a bite into this tasteful delight. If you’re deciding to bring your loved ones or friends along, always remember not to leave your house without strong mints. Actually, Listerine might be better.

Tel: (+65) 6235 9556 Opening Hours Sun–Thu: 12 p.m. – 10.30 p.m. Fri–Sat: 12 p.m. – 11.30 p.m. For the chocolate lovers out there, you most certainly know this place by now. If not, welcome to the chocolate world of Max Brenner. Currently, this Israeli chocolate chain has 3 branches in Singapore: one in Esplanade Mall, another in VivoCity and last one in 112 Katong. My preference is the one in Esplanade Mall - there was a minimal crowd when I visited at around 8 p.m. on a Saturday. It’s conveniently located in town and mere minutes away from Orchard Road. In the words of the founder, “Chocolate is not just about taste. It’s a symbol of different aspects in our lives - of romance, of sensuality, of decadence. These aspects actually create the new chocolate culture of Max Brenner.” Take a cup of hot dark chocolate, slowly sip it while holding on to the warm mug, and you can feel the warm chocolate swirling in your tongue before releasing a wave of pleasure right on your taste buds. In fact, if you wish to enjoy the tingling sensation even further, try closing your eyes and let the music of the 80s along with the chocolaty taste bring you into Max Brenner’s world. Well, it isn’t called chocolate haven for nothing.

Suckao

Hot Chocolate [flickr.com]

LIFESTYLE

BE LIN-SANE Chan Yi Wen

oday, I’m supposed to sell you a healthy lifestyle. I don’t know exactly why but I didn’t ask and my editor didn’t tell. But figuring it out isn’t rocket science either so I’m guessing that ever since McDonald’s reviewed their pricing policies, people have been optimising the day-long value meals and sales revenues have shot through the roof. Junk food overload, frolicking on lazy warm nostalgic afternoons with Lana Del Rey on replay – the only thing standing in between you and cardiac arrest are the government’s exorbitant booze taxes and my powers of persuasion. So if the ice-cream scooper recognises you, or if you have been complaining about your ineffective dieting woes in between chocolate bars, then I’m dedicating this month’s article to you. Ideally, I would write an astoundingly motivational essay that will not only induce you to feel utterly disgusted with

[http://img.ibtimes.com]

your current lifestyle habits but also leave you impeccably brainwashed. You’ll form a disdain for anything high in saturated fats, develop an emotional attachment to fruits and vegetables, get fuelled with adrenaline, gear-up, enter the fitness zone, and never get out. I’ll win some sort of Nobel Prize and we’ll all live healthily ever after for the next ten thousand years. But realistically, I’ll be attempting to pick up where the Health Promotion Board left off and it’s not going to be all sunshine and rainbows. I refuse to resort to nagging like a primitive Asian mother because I’m treading on thin ice and in his book, How to Win Friends and Influence People, Dale Carnegie says that nagging is an instant turn-off. Neither am I in the position to preach because the last time I did anything mildly healthy was brisk-walking to Burger King for supper and last week, when both elevators in

my building broke down at the same time, I loitered at the void deck for five hours and sulked till the repair-man came. As such, I find myself incapable of producing anything of substantial persuasiveness, the way Martin Luther King Jr. hit the nail on the head from the steps of the Lincoln Memorial during the 1963 Washington D.C. Civil Rights.

turned and Lin led a winning streak after being promoted to starting line-up. Heaven’s gates opened, Jeremy’s prayers were answered, and he moved from his brother’s couch into a $3500 sublet apartment in the Trump Towers after his contract with the Knicks got finalised.

But the point is not really about Jeremy Lin. It’s not about the irony of Ben & Jerry’s latest I’m at my wit’s end and everybody ice-cream flavour, Taste the loves a good underdog so today, Lin-sanity, nor is it about race I’ll be free-riding on Jeremy or status or fame. My primary Lin’s success journey from zero objective is to provide you with to Asian hero for inspiration’s valuable tips on how to maintain sake. And for those who have a healthy lifestyle within the been practising blind-faith (girls), school campus despite your I’ll provide you with a quick hectic work schedules. If Jeremy summary of how he catapulted Lin was able to play ball while to fame in February: In layman’s simultaneously juggling an Ivy terms, despite graduating from League education and leading Harvard, Jeremy Lin was still Harvard’s Asian-American benchwarming for the New York Christian activities, what valid Knicks by day and sleeping on the excuses are there for you? couch in his brother’s one-room apartment in the Lower East Side at night. But last month, the tides

LIFESTYLE

Be an opportunist.

Campus appreciation.

There’s a joke that goes like this:

Lover’s Park at the Central Forum is speculated to be undergoing reconstruction into a modern recreational space in the near future based on the winning design from a competition between the SDE students. Do you know the history of Lover’s Park? Once upon a time, long before you matriculated, it used to be the hot spot where couples would gravitate towards for their daily campus rendezvous. Then someone coined the term ‘Lover’s Park’ and the name stuck. Overnight, it turned into a phantom settlement. Its popularity plunged, and it was discriminated, under-maintained, and insect-infested because couples didn’t want to turn into cuddling clichés. Now, other than the occasional ignorant exchange student, it’s an echo-conducive ghost town. So before it gets revamped and over-populated, roll out your yoga mat, take a hike (literally), or jog around the park a couple of times. Then, take a fond trip down memory lane and reminisce the precious golden memories of the time you got fifteen mosquito bites in one sitting. Close your eyes, inhale the fresh air, and imagine the shy, furtive glances, the quickened heartbeats, and the uncomplicated happiness of the lovers of the past. If you’re the sentimental kind, snap some photos for remembrance. If not, move on.

Dear Optimist, Pessimist, and Realist, While you were arguing over that glass of water, I drank it. Yours, Opportunist. There are exercising opportunities all around you if you are willing to widen your horizons, jailbreak through accepted social conventions, and risk being labelled Meshugga (that’s Yiddish for Cuckoo) – internal shuttle bus boycotts, cartwheels in the middle of school hallways, getting onto your feet spontaneously and doing fifty jumping jacks in a row – your ego’s your limit, in my humblest opinion.

Exercise creatively. Don’t do the rash thing by kick-starting your exercise regime by signing up for a gym membership. Most people aren’t born with a burning passion to exercise so getting down to it is a pretty brutal process on its own. And paying for torture is simply absurd. Installing a treadmill or a stationary bicycle at home are also ludicrous, boring ideas. It would be like Sisyphus who defied the Gods and was condemned by the Gods that for all eternity, he would have to push a rock up a mountain; on the top, the rock rolls down again and Sisyphus has to start over – it’s a ceaseless, depressing, run-of-the-mill activity that even hamsters shouldn’t succumb to.

Mark Twain once said, “The secret to getting ahead is getting started.” So what are you waiting for?

Time optimization. Here’s the problem with college professors. They are so passionate about their specialisations that they forget you take an average of five modules each semester and unblinkingly assign you an Everest of projects and readings based on their own discretion. Truth be told, time is not your friend. The clock is ticking and the sun is setting. There’s a hill at the end of Business School that leads up towards the Prince George Park Residences. If you don’t have time for that slow, casual evening jog around campus, take a five-minute break from your intimidatingly thick and overwhelmingly boring statistics textbook and sprint up that steep hill. Be a little Lin-sane.

LIFESTYLE

SHEER BEAUTY

Sheer looks have been spotted on the runways for the past couple of seasons and it’s a trend that shows no sign of dying down. THE RIDGE digs up some tips for including this see-through trend into your school wardrobe without being accused of indecent exposure!

[photos from themaven.blogspot.com, kosmickate.blogspot.com, lacepipe.sg, Abbey Lee Kershaw, and Alice and Olivia]

Candice Chua

When it comes to wearing sheer clothing, the main question is deciding how much to show through the garment. How much exposure is considered inappropriate for a place like school? Revealing one’s lingerie under a sheer shirt is a hot favourite among high-fashion enthusiasts and style bloggers, but this option may not be suitable for school. It certainly is not the best way to impress lecturers either. Camisoles, tube tops and thin tank tops are extremely handy for wearing under sheer t-shirts and blouses without sweating your pores out as you walk along the corridors between classes. A tube top is a basic essential in every girl’s wardrobe and perfectly handy when you need a fussfree cover up under a thin shirt. Also, the basic sheer blouse and camisole combination is perfect for a lazy school day. It is easy to throw on and definitely a more stylish option compared to the t-shirt and shorts combo one would normally reach for on such a day. If you’re searching for slightly more adventurous under-layering options, try a high-necked tank top (the sort that covers the collar-bones) underneath with your blouse buttoned all the way to the top. That way, only your

arms are revealed through the sheerness of the shirt, giving a sort of elegant raglan-feel.

If you have a more feminine style, try a dress or a well-structured romper over a sheer blouse. A sleeveless dress with a skater Layering a well-made bralet or skirt hem is a great layering tool. a fitted cropped-top underneath Layering a dress or a romper over can also be very chic, just make a sheer blouse with a pussy-bow (a sure these options provide self-tie bow at the collar) can also sufficient coverage on the top. give off a chic 1960s-vintage vibe. Should you find that your under- Such an ensemble is also suitable layering option is too short, opt for less formal presentations when for a high-waist bottom such as dress codes are more relaxed. a pair of high-waist skinny jeans If you’re looking for sheer tops denim cut-offs. with more detail, try those with beading or embroidery which Another way to play with layering are great for layering over simple is, of course, to layer over the outfits like a plain sleeveless maxi sheer top. If you’re game enough dress. to brave the erratic weather of our tropical island, try v-necked While sheer tops can come in or wide-necked sweaters over many cuts and types, a buttona collared-sheer blouse. These down sheer shirt is usually the options allow the sheer collar more versatile option. When flaps and your collar bone to worn unbuttoned, a sheer shirt be seen through the garment, can serve as a cooling piece of providing a nice contrast with outerwear over your existing that bit of sheer peeking out at outfit. When buttoned all the way the top. Just remember that when to the collar, the look achieves a choosing knitted sweaters or smart-preppy vibe that you could pullovers to layer over your sheer try for presentations with a blazer top, go for materials like acrylic thrown over the entire ensemble. and cotton instead of wool as the former suits our climate better. Transparent fashions are not Also, look for knits that are light- limited to just shirts and blouses weight and loosely knitted, which of course. If you’re a big fan of will allow for ventilation. After long skirts, a sheer maxi skirt all, sweat patches aren’t exactly is a must in your closet. Sheer very glamourous. Don’t forget to maxi skirts usually come with a check the weather forecast for the shorter inner lining that ranges day as well! from mid-thigh to knee-length.

There are even sheer maxi skirts that come with an attached pair of leggings for those edgier ladies out there. No matter which lining you prefer, ensure that it provides adequate coverage (front and behind) so that you can be spared from wandering eyes. Ensure that the under-skirt is not one that rides up easily though, as it would be difficult to adjust it when you have another skirt over it. Sheer maxi skirts are pretty versatile and go well with almost any kind of top, from band t-shirts to a feminine blouse. However, if you feel that you’ve revealed enough showing your legs, balance out the outfit with a top that shows less skin. So, you might want to avoid spaghetti-strapped or lowbacked tops. There are many other types of sheer garments out there like chiffon throw-overs that resemble an opened kimono, or a buttoneddown maxi dress that can be worn as a long piece of outerwear when you’re done wearing it as a dress. Layering options with sheer garments are numerous, so experiment and play around to find the ones that suit your style. Remember – you want to look stylish, not trashy. Have fun with fashion!

LIFESTYLE

MARCH EVENTS Wilson Lim

Kronenbourg 1664 Presents 1664 Signs of Attraction Not satisfied with just promoting “The French Art of Pleasure” with its premium French lager, Kronenbourg 1664 is now ready to extend this spirit to romance too. 1664 Signs of Attraction is a fun, interactive and approachable Facebook-based application for singles to meet based on their interest. Bringing online dating to a whole new level, Kronenbourg 1664 has partnered with Lunch Actually, Asia’s premier dating company, who would be providing their expertise in creating the online surveys and planning the Cupid Parties, which allow participants to meet face to face. The most worthy Bachelor and Bachelorette of the campaign will win a coveted trip to Paris! For more information, visit www. facebook.com/KronenbourgSG

Date: 24 February 2012 to 31 May 2012

Death Cab for Cutie Live in Singapore

i Light Marina Bay Festival 2012

Timbre Rock & Roots 2012 Being one of the most popular bands in the indie genre, fans will be treated to a one-nightonly performance in Singapore. The concert will highlight songs from their latest album, ‘Codes and Keys’ (released on 31 May 2011) and feature other popular songs from previous albums like ‘Transatlanticism’ and ‘I Will Possess Your Heart’. Early bird ticket at $88 from SISTIC. For more information, visit www. sistic.com.sg

Returning for the third year, Timbre Rock & Roots is keeping to its philosophy of featuring world-class musicians and Grammy awards winners and nominees. This years’ performers’ list include soul-funk band, Earth, Wind & Fire; 2-tone ska band, The Specials; six Grammy awards winner, Buddy Guy; 2012 Grammy nominee, Keb’ Mo’; the phenomenal Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue and local act, Goodfellas. Get ready for a rockTrivia: the band’s quirky name ing good time where drinks, food was inspired from a similarly-tiand great music abound! Tickets tled song performed by the Bonzo are specially priced at $70 for Dog Doo-Dah Band while the students from SISTIC. For more song title was in turn inspired by information, visit www.rockandan American pulp fiction crime roots.com.sg magazine title.

Date: 7 March 2012

Date: 30 March 2012 to 31 March 2012

Time: 8:00 p.m.

Time: 6:00 p.m.

Venue: Fort Canning Park

Venue: Marina Promenade

Touted as the first sustainable lights art festival in Asia, the festival celebrates Marina Bay’s nightscape with 30 outdoor light art installations placed in various open spaces around the Marina Bay and along the 3.5km waterfront promenade. These vibrant and innovative installations are all designed by Asian artists. Instead of just being a plain lights festival, there will also be fun-filled activities like night picnic and carnival, outdoor performances, guided walking tours and educational talks to participate in. It will be an ideal place to head down to just chill out and experience a whole new light. Admission is free. For more information, visit www.yoursingapore.com

Date: 9 March 2012 to 1 April 2012 Time: 7:30 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. nightly Venue: Marina Bay Waterfront

WIRED

SOCIAL AGGREGATION SITES TO WASTE YOUR TIME ON Lester Hio

he Internet is a wonderful place. You can search for anything you want, read up on the history of the world, enroll in an online class, or simply spend your time reading ragecomics and advice animals and imbibing on all the memes out there. Here is where social aggregation sites come in handy - as the name suggests, these sites gather content from all over the web, generally user-submitted, and you are free to peruse your interests and vote on what’s good and what’s not by a simple voting system. In honour of all the time you’ve probably wasted by clicking link after link, we present to you the three social aggregation sites you should be wasting your time on.

digg.com Founded in 2004, Digg is perhaps the prototypical social aggregation site, a position it has managed to hang on to narrowly until Reddit started to bloom in popularity sometime in 2008. Digg is the quintessential social aggregation site. Content is entirely user-generated, and after people see what you’ve posted, they “digg” what they like, and by a simple process of popularity, the more popular links get pushed higher up the site, and the most popular of them all get promoted to the front page. Digg is useful for just spending your time catching up on what’s new in the news - since most content is aggregated from other news sites, readers have easy access to the wealth of interesting news for that day right there on one page. Unlike Reddit, which also features original user content, Digg’s focus on collating news links means that what you get is a snapshot of popular web content from all over the Internet. Links are sorted into large, general categories, such as Business, Gaming, Lifestyle and Science - very much like what you see in a traditional spreadsheet.

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reddit.com

9gag.com

Reddit blurs the line between pure social aggregation and contentsharing with creativity that only a hivemind full of in-jokes will appreciate. Much like digg, all content on Reddit is user-submitted, and are separated into various categories called “subreddits”, which range from the global (e.g. worldnews, politics), to the niche (e.g. gaming, tech), to the wonderfully entertaining (e.g. todayilearnt, funny), and, yes, memes and rage (e.g. fffffffuuuuuuuuuuuu, lolcats, adviceanimals).

9gag is saved for the last because it is probably the most popular social content-sharing website out there. Your Facebook feed is probably full of reposts by friends who have stumbled upon the alluring nature of memes and rage comics and spam your feed with images pulled from 9gag. What we have here is an extreme of the social aggregation/content generation scale: 9gag is not so much a social aggregation site that collates news and links much like how Digg or Reddit does, but is rather a social-sharing website designed to spread the ‘lulz’ by an intuitive interface and an easy-to-share button. Instead of posting links and news and pictures and opening them up for debate and discussion, 9gag features memes, ragecomics, perhaps way too many “Skill level: Asian” content, and… more memes.

Posts are gauged by a simple upvote/downvote system, and good posts appear on the front page based on user popularity. Reddit is notorious for perhaps stealing memes and content from 4chan, but is undeniably a force to be reckoned with outside of memes, with serious discussion to be found in certain subreddits that enforce no picture rules very seriously. That said, Reddit is a community insofar as there is bound to be a subreddit that caters to your interests, be it academic or banal. It helps that many of the comments made by users are genuinely hilarious. Reddit is simply not good news for those who wish not to get distracted by the Internet, because you will.

Most pictures are user-submitted, and the more cynical web user might point out that it steals content from other creators and watermarks them for the site’s own use. Its ease of use and accessibility makes it one of the more popular social-sharing site on the Internet, though, and its popularity is all the more evident to anyone who has been fortunate enough to receive a news feed full of 9gag links. (photos from digg.com, reddit.com, 9gag.com)

WIRED

THUNDERBOLT VS Neethu Krishna M

pple has been at odds with Microsoft ever since the launching of the first Apple product in 1976. Not much has really changed even after three long decades, for the battle continues. It’s not very often that connection technologies hit the headlines, but the arrival of Thunderbolt in Apple’s new MacBook Pro has everyone wondering if Thunderbolt versus USB 3.0 is going to be the next major war in the e-world!

challenge USB.

So what is the fuss all about? Well, Apple has made a power play with its inclusion of Thunderbolt, Intel’s new high speed interface for connecting peripherals, such as monitors and input/output cards, in its new iMac and Macbook Pro. What’s notable however, is its snubbing of USB 3.0.

USB IS AMONG THE MOST SUCCESSFUL INTERFACES IN THE HISTORY OF PERSONAL COMPUTERS.

For the less tech-savvy people, Thunderbolt and USB 3.0 in simple terms are interfaces that help the connectivity of peripheral devices to your computer. USB is among the most successful interfaces in the history of personal computers. Among PC and peripheral device manufacturers, USB adoption is virtually 100%. So it’s not a small thing for an external device that interconnects technology to

mouse, mass storage etc, Thunderbolt gives a connection Thunderbolt (codenamed Light standard which can do much Peak) is PCI-Express –the more than USB. It can do peerhighest speed computer expansion to-peer transferring; it can act card standard. Thunderbolt as an intermediary between a offers twice the performance laptop like the Macbook Air of the latest SuperSpeed USB or Ultrabooks and an external (3.0) interconnect and it is also PCI-Express card; or it can act slimmer than USB, making it as a port replicator, allowing you ideal for the latest thin computer to combine USB, DVI, VGA, technology which includes HDMI, Displayport, in/out notebooks and tablets. The Firewire audio, and so on while upcoming Windows 8 has already plugging in only a single cable!

demonstrated that it can support Thunderbolt while Acer and ASUS have publicly stated that their 2012 platforms will have Thunderbolt. So it is not without reason that many speculate it will someday overtake USB, the most ubiquitous external I/O technology till date. A single Thunderbolt port supports hubs as well as a daisy chain of up to seven Thunderbolt devices, two of which may be high-resolution displays using DisplayPort. While USB has a fixed set of ‘classes’ that can be acknowledged –audio, keyboard,

If you go by the specs, Thunderbolt interface inarguably looks good on paper. However, the advantages are offset by its practical application and the high price. Most experts agree that there is no need for it yet. The very high bandwidth would be useless unless a computer’s internal drive can handle it.

IF YOU GO BY THE SPECS, THUNDERBOLT INTERFACE INARGUABLY LOOKS GOOD ON PAPER. The fastest throughput of an internal drive now in use is only 6 GBps. Therefore, a Thunderbolt external drive connected to a laptop will still follow the 6 GBps bandwidth and not the prescribed 10 GBps. Moreover,

most people simply won’t need it and most applications, even the most demanding ones, will still be well-served with the much cheaper USB 3.0. The lack of interest shown by some of the leading companies like Dell and Lenovo in adopting Thunderbolt technology also raises the question as to whether it will really make a market soon. Thunderbolt is likely to appeal to the digital media professional crowd while largely flying under the radar of the general consumer base. At the end of the day, it is also important to consider the possibility of Thunderbolt and USB 3.0 co-existing, each complementing the other. After all, they have both come from the same hands as the latter is also co-developed by Intel.

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LT VS USB 3.0

SuperSpeed USB 3.0

Thunderbolt

Speed

4.8Gbps

10Gbps

Power for devices

4.5 watts

10 watts

Cost

$4.49 (for 2-meter cable)

$49.00 (for 2-meter cable)

Connector size

11.5mm X 4.5mm

8.3mm X 5.4mm

Downloading 25GB HD movie

60-75 seconds

30 seconds

Availability

Widely used

Only in Apple

Maximum length of cable

100m

(photos from 3dnews.ru, premiumsub.com)

WIRED

BYTE-SIZED Lam Woon Cherk

Raspberry Pi Will you buy a delicious pie fully-functional personal computer that costs about US$25 - US$35? The Raspberry Pi Foundation has made this possible with the Raspberry Pi single-board computer that comes with two flavours, Model A that costs US$25 and Model B at US$35. Measuring only as big as a credit card, the board is equipped with a 700MHz processor, a 256 MB RAM and an SD Card Slot for the storage. Despite the small size, Raspberry Pi comes with all the essential peripherals, including USB port(s), audio & video outputs and Ethernet port, among others. The Raspberry is designed to run on Linux OS, and is up for grabs at Farnell and RS Components!

(photo from raspberrypi.org)

Apple OS X Mountain Lion Although Apple has done very well in the mobile phone market, it is still an underperformer in the desktop market. In view of the rapid development of iOS, Apple has recently announced the next major release of their OS X (Mountain Lion), which has borrowed many features from the mobile operating system. Features such as Game Center and Notification Center are well-known features that has been ported from iOS to OS X. Apple has also created deeper integration of their very own cloud service - iCloud - into the Mountain Lion. The OS is scheduled to be released in this summer.

(photo from idg.no , digitaltrends.com)

Windows 8 Consumer Preview We have previously reported about Microsoftâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new desktop operating system - Windows 8 - during the time when Windows 8 is still in Developer Preview. In the recent Mobile World Congress, Microsoft has announced the availability of Windows 8 Consumer Preview, which is aimed for mass consumer testing. The announcement is also accompanied with more features than the previous Developer Preview, and Microsoft has demonstrated some of the most interesting features including Windows To Go, a feature of which allows the users to install Windows 8 in a USB stick and bring it along and use it on any PC. Featuring the new Metro UI (similar UI to be found on the Windows Phone) which long-time Windows users might need some time getting used to.

(photo from geekwire.com)

FINAL_300034_TheRidge_206x138_FB_20Feb2012xx.indd 1

2/20/12 2:05 PM

SPORTS

AN OLYMPIC DREAM Serene Leong

ost university students aspire to graduate with First Class Honours, but for 21-yearold business administration undergraduate Lim Heem Wei, there are bigger dreams.

Prior to earning her ticket to the Olympics, her highest achievement was a silver medal at the 2010 Commonwealth Games.

To perfect her form, Lim trains six times a week, four to five hours “My dream as an athlete, as each time. a gymnast, is to get to the Olympics,” said the national “Our routine is only one and a half gymnast, who will make history minutes so either you nail it or you as Singapore’s first gymnast to don’t,” she said. “I like when my ever compete in the Olympics this moves are perfect.” July. Naturally, Lim has to juggle both “I am very honoured and gymnastics and her studies. “It’s privileged to represent Singapore down to time management and at this level,” she said. “All the discipline,” she explained, adding years of training have finally paid that it would not have been off.” possible if not for the support of

SPORTS

her parents and NUS Business School. “My daughter put in a lot of hard work and dedication to get this far,” said her father Daniel Lim, who has given his full support throughout her gymnastics journey. But Lim’s success has not been without sacrifices. “I can’t afford to go out and socialise like my friends do,” she said. She is also wary of giving other sports a try. “Trying water sports like windsurfing, sailing and wakeboarding would risk injuries on top of what I already have,” the adventurous gymnast said. Despite this, Lim has never given up on her dream. Her final advice to aspiring youths and athletes:

“Dare to chase that dream, taking calculated risks. You don’t want to look back ten years from now and ask, what if I had given myself that chance?” As she prepares for the upcoming Olympics, Lim is unfazed by competition, seeing it as a form of “motivation rather than pressure.” She aims to improve her overall score and position. “It’s really about bettering myself,” she said. (Lim Heem Wei)

SPORTS

POOR SPORTSM

he Inter-Hall Games (IHG) has become an annual fixture in the NUS calendar where we celebrate the finest athletes in NUS while encouraging healthy inter-hall competition and enhancing residential life. For some it is the biggest campus event on the calendar. This year however there have been numerous allegations of poor sportsmanship and a distinct lack of respect. And it has come at an inopportune time when parallels can be drawn with the Suarez-Evra fiasco which rocked English football last month. While every hall is guilty of exuberant celebrations and the occasional act of foul play, people are competitive here at NUS and we would hate to see our sporting arenas looking staid and devoid of passion. However a line must be drawn between pride in one’s hall and respecting your opponents.

matches after being found guilty of racially abusing Patrice Evra of Manchester United last year during an English Premier League Game. It was hoped that this ruling by the English Football Association would bring about a swift end to the embarrassing situation especially since racism has long been stamped out in the sporting world. The closure that everyone sought from the incident was supposed to be with the promised handshake between Suarez and Evra before the Liverpool - Manchester United game on 11 February, but such public reconciliation was never achieved. After a match filled with allegations of spitting, fisticuffs in the tunnel during half time and over-exuberant celebrations, race was no longer the issue there. It was sportsmanship. On our own turf, Eusoff Hall has been guilty of going overboard with its victory Luis Suarez, a player from the celebrations so much so that it Liverpool Football Club was borders on utter disrespect for banned from playing eight their opponents.

Winning is commendable, but rubbing it in the faces of your opponents, not so much. Most of these over the top celebrations take place in the wee hours of the morning and hence attract little attention from most students. A few years back, we had the infamous naked run and this year, Freddie Mercury rolled in his grave as Eusoff Hall added a few twists to the Queen classic, ‘We are the Champions’. After congratulating all the other halls for their efforts in the IHG and calling them ‘winners’, they proceeded to announce to anyone living within a 500 meter radius of Eusoff Hall that they were the champions and Temasek Hall were the ‘losers’. This carried on into the night as several Eusoffians gathered at Eusoff Block E to hurl abuse at Temasek Block A, just ten metres away. The alcohol-fuelled celebrations were finally drawn to a close when campus security and members of the Singapore Police

SPORTS

TSMANSHIP?

Force turned up at about 4 a.m.. It would be extremely prudish of me to call such parties into question as it is very much a part of hall life. However, the lack of sportsmanship and respect shown towards the defeated leaves much to be desired. I am not calling for disciplinary action or, even worse, for the IHG to be scrapped for failing to achieve its purpose of healthy competition and encouraging sportsmanship. I feel such decisions would be counterproductive and would devalue the campus experience. Neither am I going to blame Eusoff Hall for their celebrations. The problem is far more endemic in our campus culture. Such events have lost their way as participants no longer place a premium on taking away life lessons and giving back to the community but instead participate to bring glory to their Hall and be ‘Number One’. It is quite possible that if one or two results had gone the other way,

this article might have been about Temasek Hall instead. All I ask for is to show the vanquished a little respect and planning for a better celebration venue, preferably away from residential areas. Do you respect the human being you compete against or are they just obstacles to your success? Do they encourage you to strive for greater heights or are they there to be beaten up and boost your ego? To all the athletes who competed admirably at this year’s IHG and their enthusiastic supporters, thank you for creating a great event with a wonderful atmosphere. I would like to end this article with a quote from an International Olympic Committee (IOC) commercial for the 2004 Athens Olympics celebrating humanity.

“If you could have the arms of Hercules; legs as swift as the wind; if you could leap shoulder high above the rim; have the kick of a dolphin; the reflexes of a cat; if you could have all this, you would have the body, you would have the tools. But you will not have greatness until you understand that the strongest muscle is the heart.” – Andrea Bocelli

SPORTS

SUPER BOWL XLVI

(MVP Eli Manning with the trophy / thenewstribune.com)

hey book their flights and hotels months in advance to avoid the inevitable price gouging. If they can drive, they do that. They never show up with tickets, and end up paying more than the face value outside the stadium. This is what the fans of Super Bowl go through every year to watch their favorite NFL Heroes in action. Does this deter their spirit? An overflowing stadium of 68,500+ and more than 125 million global viewers (including 33% of the American population) answers the question! For those who are in the dark, the Super Bowl is the annual championship game of the National Football League (NFL), the highest level of professional American football in the United

States, culminating a season that began the previous calendar year. The New York Giants played the New England Patriots in the Super Bowl XLVI on 5 February, 2012 to determine the champion of the 2011 season. With Kelly Clarkson nailing her version of the National Anthem at the Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, James Ihedigbo, the hard-hitting safety led the Patriots out while the Giants swarmed into the field with Brandon Jacobs and Eli Manning putting up a stiff front. While building their 9-0 lead over the New England Patriots during the first quarter, the New York Giants benefited from two key plays. The first came from their defense and the second was a mistake from the Patriots.

Naveen Prakash

Tom Brady of Patriots was flagged for intentional grounding in the end zone owing to the Giantsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; strong defensive play. The Patriots even had a turnover negated as they had 12 men on the field when Victor Cruz of the Giants lost a fumble. I personally thought, the Patriots were confused as to who was supposed to come off or on as defensive back Antwaun Molden came off the field and then, all of a sudden, had to come back on! The second quarter had a turnaround like most of the games with Tom Brady engineering a difficult 96-yard drive ensuring a 10-9 scoreline in favour of the Patriots at the end. The short pass strategy of the Patriots paid rich dividends as the Giants paved way for two costly penalties in the

quarter. Had it not been for the penalty, the Giants would have had a first down and continued their drive instead of punting to the Patriots. But the excitement in the crowd was not just about the punting and touchdowns alone. It was half-time and a massive stage was built within seven minutes with a set that included Roman gladiators, Gregorian monks, 70,000 flashlights, a marching band and one very bad bird, and the outrageously limber 53-yearold pop star Madonna along with Cee-Lo Green and Hiphop star M.I.A. as the guest stars performed for 15 minutes. The Patriots opened the third quarter with a 79-yard touchdown

SPORTS

drive to increase their lead to 17-9. The Giants came right back on the next drive, but had to kick a field goal. There was some concern that Patriots quarterback Tom Brady was injured on the sack by Giants Justin Tuck, forcing them to kick another field goal, but the Giants took over with great field position on the 50-yard line raising the scoreline to 17-15 at the end of the quarter. With both teams scoring very high in the fourth quarters in previous games, the two-point difference meant an interesting fourth quarter to everyone who was following the game.

turf in frustration. But the gamewinning touchdown came from the right back Ahmad Bradshaw going in from 6-yards out giving the Giants a 21-17 lead with just 57 seconds left, allowing Tom Brady one last chance at Super Bowl XLVI. As Tom Brady‘s final, arching pass fell incomplete in the end zone amid a scrum of Giants and Patriots while the time expired, Lucas Oil Stadium morphed into uproar and bedlam. The Giants were kings once again. The night belonged to Eli Manning, the MVP in the biggest game for a second time, evolving from a player whom many criticised to somebody who will have a good chance to be in Canton’s NFL Hall of Fame. Eli and his Giants held up the Vince Lombardi Trophy. The outcome was not surprising as the Giants were expected to win by a number of experts but it certainly was a great game. Super Bowl XLVI definitely ranks in top three of all title games!

On the second play of the fourth quarter, Brady broke free from Giants defensive linemen Linval Joseph and Rocky Bernard before spotting Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski down the field. Brady airmailed a pass that Giants linebacker Chase Blackburn intercepted at New York’s 8-yard line. Later Brady was shoved to the ground on the play by Giants defensive end Jason Pierre-Paul. The heart and soul of the Patriots sat upright on the The Super bowl is also known for

its high-profile advertisements that air during the television broadcast in US. Super Bowl Sunday is not just an ordinary day in America; it’s a de facto national holiday. Millions of football fans celebrate it, family and friends gather around the television to watch it and advertisers flock to it as if it were the Holy Grail of Consumerism. Prices for advertising space can typically cost millions of dollars as the broadcast ranks very highly in the Nielsen ratings. The high price tag of the commercials and the ubiquity of the event during which they air all but promises that the ads will be spectacular and innovative in most cases. During Super Bowl XLVI, all commercials were sold out by Thanksgiving 2011, at an average price of $3.5 million per thirtysecond ad; by far the highest rate for Super Bowl advertising in the event’s history. Some of the ads that caught my attention during the game were: ·Pepsi

featuring

Amaro – the Winner of Season 1 of X-Factor. ·Volkswagen with a 60-second spot advertising the thirdgeneration Beetle featuring dogs barking to the tune of ‘The Imperial March’. ·Audi parodying the Twilight series with an ad for the S7. ·Mars, Incorporated introducing the M&M’s brown spokes candy. ·Trailers of ‘The Avengers’, ‘Act of Valor’, ‘G.I. Joe 2’, ‘Battleship’, ‘Star Wars 3D – Episode 1’, ‘Swamp People’ from Paramount, Walt Disney and Universal Studios. ·Budweiser came up with five different ads of its different products as well.

For those who are not interested in the game, I suggest you at least catch the innovative ads to experience the fun and creativity that can be seen within a span of Melanie 30 - 60 seconds.

(totallycoolpix.com)

SPORTS

AN ALL-ROUND How Xian Wei

inspire her teammates as a defense player in netball. Vice-captain of TeamNUS netball, Darshita Thurairajah, has been influenced in this aspect. “Her attitude is ‘Let’s go win this!’”, Thurairajah said.

ooking for a full-time student One particular moment remains and a full-time sportsperson? etched in her mind. Cheryl Ann Lee Cheng Wai fits perfectly. “They called me the Giant.” A first-year NUS Undergraduate, she is studying business administration with double masters in science management and international management and is also enrolled in the NUS University Scholar’s Program. Apart from those tongue-twisting qualifications, she is also an accomplished netball player representing Singapore in the sports arena.

A renowned netball coach, Chng Li Li scouted Lee to play netball for Raffles Girls’ School, the champion institution. She has a great physique – tall frame, standing at 168cm then, and long limbs with lean muscles. Spectators and netball players referred to her as ‘the Giant’ in their conversations. “I always have confidence in her whenever she goes on court for all matches as she is always there to give more Lee’s life has not always been than 100 per cent.” Chng said. smooth-sailing. She has often been forced to put her academic Her uniquely graceful netball performance on the line in favor of skills are nothing less than her intense netball commitments. remarkable. Lee never fails to

The national netball coach handpicked Lee to join the Singapore squad during the same year. When juxtaposed with other 13-year-olds, Lee was considerably more advanced in her netball skills. Thus, she had the privilege to team up with players from different schools who were up to four years her senior. No one has ever complained that she is inadequate in her play. Since then, she has participated in international tournaments at a competitive level. “I lived a few months of my life with a lot of regret.” During her first year in Raffles Institution, she turned down a golden opportunity to represent Singapore in the World Youth Netball Championships. She had listened to her mind but she betrayed her heart and her passion. “There are so many people telling me ‘don’t do it, don’t do it.’” In the following year, she faced a similar opportunity, to participate

in the Asian Youth Netball Championships. It would take a toll on her studies as she was preparing for ‘A’ levels but she had to go. Lee had an extreme six-days-a-week training program and missed three out of her five common tests during the competition in New Delhi. “Seriously I was really doubting myself… if I was making the right choice” Lee’s academic performance plummeted, with Ds and Es in her report slip. “The slip looked really bad. I really wondered at that point in time if I was making the right choice.” She held the report slip in her hand while making her way to the national team training. The longer she stared at the slip, the more her confidence waned. Lee took a deep breath. As she exhaled, she whispered, “Its time to challenge yourself, Cheryl.” “My parents were the last people who would say no to me.” Lee took the disappointing results in her stride. She annihilated any sense of doubt or fear of failing and engendered a new to-do list. “Just remain super extremely focused,” she said. She determinedly woke up at 8 a.m. every morning and worked on a practice paper, to

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D simulate the actual 8 a.m. ‘A’ levels Maths paper. She kept her mental health in tip-top condition and her parents played a prominent role as she attempted this new regime. They trusted their eldest of four children completely. “My parents were the last people who would say no to me,” said Lee. Despite their busy working schedules, they chauffeured Lee to help with time management.

To have everything fit like a puzzle piece, Lee developed tremendous discipline and relied on her confidence. She admitted that she had lots of distractions. She fine-tuned her study regime to ensure her brain was functioning at an optimal level. Those were the exact steps to take to have it all in life. “There are just so many things you can occupy yourself with besides what you actually have to do. I think the trick is to “I’m really thankful. It’s like put your phone far away, and just someone was watching over get down to doing it. After a while me.” it will somehow become a habit. It gets into the groove of things.” Lee emerged as a true champion in her academic life, scoring distinctions for all her ‘A’ levels subjects. She secured a perfect University Admission Score of 90 points. This strong drive and motivation is clearly evident throughout her school life. Additionally, her adaptability and resourcefulness in ensuring that she remained connected with her project mates for an important assignment while she was overseas for a netball competition displays her sense of dedication towards her education. “[Lee] is confident in sharing her opinions in class, and is insightful in her analysis,” a good friend and a classmate of Lee in USP said. “I think the trick to it is put your phone far away, and just get down to doing it.”

(Photos by Shu Jun Koh)

RECENT ACHIEVEMENTS •Member of Singapore Under 21 National Team 2011 •Represented NUS for Track & Field in Women’s Javelin Throw event •Represented NUS for Netball Institution-Varsity and Polytechnic (IVP) Tournament 2012 (1st) and Singapore University Games 2011 (1st)

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TEAMNUS CRICKET’S TOUR OF NEW ZEALAND Abhishek Ravi

he NUS cricket team embarked on an extremely challenging tour of New Zealand in early January this year, after winning the Corporate Division 1 and the Singapore University Games (SunIG) four years in a row. The team departed on 5th January 2012, with matches scheduled in the cities of Palmerston North, Napier and Wellington. The squad consisted of 14 players, along with Ramanan Balakrishnan(Internal Team Manager), Carson Goh (External Team Manager) and coach Grant Stanley.

Napier The team arrived in Napier on 9 January and were accommodated in Napier Boys High school. The team was scheduled to play three practice matches against Bracewell’s Academy, a premier coaching institution headed by former New Zealand Test Cricketer Dough Bracewell, where players from all over the world come to practice. The three matches scheduled included a 40-over match and two T-20s. Bracewell’s Academy proved a huge challenge for TeamNUS. In the first game (40 overs), NUS were chasing a target of 180 runs set by their opponents. However, with NUS needing 80 runs from the last 10 overs and 3 wickets in hand, the match was abandoned due to rain. The next day, two T-20 games were scheduled. Despite being outplayed in the first T-20, TeamNUS showed great determination and moral strength, performing very well in the second match of the day. After batting first and scoring 130 runs, NUS almost won the match, with their opponents needing 30 runs from the last two overs, with only two wickets in hand. However, a good spell from Bracewell’s Academy helped them snatch victory from the jaws of defeat, reaching their target with only two balls to spare. Despite losing the games, there was a marked improvement as the team was growing in confidence and learning from mistakes.

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Wellington Next, the team headed to windy Wellington to play the final two matches of the tour. In the first game, despite a great bowling effort by NUS, the NUS batsmen could not cope with the pace, bounce and swing of their opponents, thus ending up on the losing side. Despite this, the team recovered extremely well to record a dominating victory in the last game of the tour. The team excelled in all fronts, keeping the opponents to a low score of 130 from the 40 overs, and chasing down the target in 25 overs itself! This brought an end to a memorable, exciting and enriching tour, one from which every member of TeamNUS Cricket has learnt a lot to improve their cricket. Apart from all the cricket, the team still managed to fit in a fair bit of fun, sight-seeing and souvenir shopping. The Rugby Museum, chocolate factory, bungee jumping and wine-tasting along with the beautiful sceneries and lush meadows of New Zealand made the team all but fall in love with the country.

Palmerston North The team landed in Wellington and promptrly drove to Palmerston North on January 6th for their first training session. Staying at Palmerston North Boys High School, the team took part in the Manawatu Cricket Tournament, a T-20 match scheduled on the 7th and 8th of January. The first match was against Palmerston North Cricket Club, a well-established team in the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first division; they batted first and scored 140 runs. Despite battling hard till the end, TeamNUS fell short of the total by 40 runs. Unfortunately, the two matches scheduled for 8 January were rained out, in lieu of which the team had an indoor practice session. A highlight of this training session was the experience of practicing with a bowling machine, enabling the team to practice batting against fast, swinging bowling, something which is almost impossible to experience in Singapore. (photos by Abhishek Ravi)

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