Shared posts

09 Dec 14:33

Beef Tenderloin with Mushrooms and Brussels: A Holiday-Worthy Sheet Pan Dinner

by Patty Catalano
Jim Paull

Mmmmm

Everything cooks all on one pan (and we've even included an easy horseradish sauce for dipping). READ MORE...
09 Dec 14:03

PSA: Amazon Just Marked Down an Air Fryer Oven From One of Our Favorite Small Appliance Brands

by Mark Marino
Jim Paull

Hmmmm

With summer around the corner, it's the only appliance you'll ever need! READ MORE...
06 Dec 08:12

Garuda Indonesia CEO Fired For Smuggling Harley Davidson Into The Country On New Airbus Jet

by Sebastian Powell
Jim Paull

Hahahaha

Garuda Indonesia is in the news again and this time it’s the CEO who is making headlines as the authorities found he schemed to smuggle a Harley Davidson motorcycle into Indonesia when taking delivery of a new Airbus jet.

The bike was in individual parts that weren’t declared to Indonesian customs and the officers in charge also found two high end folding bicycles that were likely supposed to reach senior management as well.

Garuda Indonesia is a state-owned enterprise and as such the government has lots of say in it’s personnel affairs which lead to the CEO being fired following an audit of the situation.

As Bloomberg News reported yesterday that the Harley was even purchased with the help of Garuda’s overseas management through an intermediary account.

The chief executive officer of airline PT Garuda Indonesia is getting fired for allegedly ordering a classic Harley-Davidson motorcycle to be smuggled into the country on a brand new Airbus jet.

I Gusti Ngurah Askhara Danadiputra will be dismissed after the airline’s audit committee found he had ordered the purchase of the classic Harley Shovelhead, State-Owned Enterprises Minister Erick Thohir said. The Garuda CEO, who is also known as Ari Askhara, gave instructions in 2018 to find the motorcycle and the purchase was made in April 2019 through a transfer via a personal account of Garuda’s finance manager in Amsterdam, Thohir said.

“This will not stop there,” Thohir told reporters in Jakarta on Thursday. “We will continue to find other individuals who might be related to this case.”

The manifest of the ferry flight from Toulouse to Jakarta showed the aircraft had 22 people on board and carried no cargo, Finance Minister Sri Mulyani Indrawati said, contradicting a statement Garuda made this week that the goods had been declared to customs.

The smuggling of the goods deprived the state of 532 million rupiah ($38,000) to 1.5 billion rupiah, Indrawati said. Customs officers also found two high-end Brompton folding bikes in the cargo of the aircraft.

The shipping of “goods into Indonesia through illegal means happens often and under various modus operandi and through many channels,” Indrawati said. “I have ordered the customs and excise office to step up the supervision.”

Askhara took the helm of the loss-making airline in September 2018 and promised a turnaround. Garuda reported a $5 million profit for 2018, but in July this year it revised its accounts to show a $175 million net loss and scrapped a $241.9 million in-flight entertainment deal after Indonesian authorities found irregularities related to the contract. …

This sounds like a pretty elaborate scheme just to save some money in import duties. As a prominent business executive in Indonesia the CEO Mr. Askhara for sure commands a very high salary and should be able to pay for luxury goods such as a motorcycle and import the Harley properly.

I’m surprised that Airbus or the french authorities allow foreign cargo being loaded onto the aircraft before it takes off from their factory in Toulouse. Especially with an incorrect manifest, what is going on there?

Conclusion

A classic case of executive greed paired with a laissez faire attitude when it comes to actually policing certain figures to the point of where they disregard the law entirely.

Indonesia has been trying to fight corruption at least on the surface but of course the country is notorious for it’s illegitimate under the table deals and personal connections. Customs is very thorough though, I’ve been searched at customs in Jakarta and Bali several times.

04 Dec 15:33

This Overflowing Trader Joe’s Charcuterie Board Cost Us Just $6.30 per Person

by Danielle Centoni
Jim Paull

OMG mmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm

And we've got tips to get that price down to less than $4.50 if need be! READ MORE...
04 Dec 13:32

Sleepless Night For Anti-Vice Raid Volunteer Imagining Someone Somewhere In Malaysia Is Being Gay

by Editor
Jim Paull

Rofl

TERENGGANU: Exhausted anti-vice vigilante, Faisal Abdul Razak reported he’d had yet another sleepless night last.

The post Sleepless Night For Anti-Vice Raid Volunteer Imagining Someone Somewhere In Malaysia Is Being Gay appeared first on The Tapir Times.

30 Nov 14:23

Narwhal Tusk And A Fire Extinguisher Used To Subdue London Bridge Attacker

by Ed Scarce
Jim Paull

A narwhal tusk, that's unique.

An iconic video of the London Bridge terror attack has emerged overnight.

Source: The Guardian

A convicted murderer was among ex-prisoners and members of the public who grappled with and eventually grounded the London Bridge knife attacker before police arrived.

One man was armed with a fire extinguisher and another a 5ft narwhal tusk as people at the scene surrounded the attacker, who was eventually pinned to the ground.

Scotland Yard is investigating how 28-year-old Usman Khan was able to launch the attack in London Bridge, despite being known to the authorities and fitted with an electronic tag to monitor his movements. He was allowed out a year ago after serving time for his part in a plot to blow up the London Stock Exchange.

In footage that has since emerged, Khan is sprayed with a fire extinguisher, while another man tries to suppress the assailant with a narwhal tusk – a long pointed tooth from a type of whale – lunging at him. It is believed the item was pulled from the wall of Fishmongers’ Hall, a grade II-listed building on London Bridge, by a Polish chef called Lucasz.

Among those who pinned down the attacker was James Ford, 42, who is also thought to have tried to save the life of a woman who had been stabbed. Ford was jailed for life in 2004 for the murder of 21-year-old Amanda Champion, who had a mental age of 15.

read more

06 Nov 12:51

82-year-old cyclist set to become 1st Brit to zoom past a million mile

by Reuters
Jim Paull

Now that's a biker.

Russ Mantle started cycling aged 15. (Facebook pic)

SURREY: Russ Mantle’s love affair with his bike has grown stronger with every pedal stroke and he is now poised to become the first Briton to clock up one million registered miles in his lifetime.

On Thursday, Mantle plans to create a piece of history by reaching one million miles after a mere five-mile ride from his home in Aldershot, to a cafe in Mytchett, Surrey.

The 82-year-old retired civil servant has recorded his mileage since he got his first bike — a Coventry Eagle — in 1952.

He has meticulously made note of every ride in his diaries as he made short trips to work, participated in local races and pedalled up the mountains in Europe and America.

“I started cycling in 1951 and recording in 1952 and since then I’ve just kept going,” he told Daily Mail.

“In my early days cycling was all I thought about and the natural thing to do was to cycle. I loved getting out in the countryside. To me it just seemed obvious to record my mileage, that’s what a cyclist does.”

Mantle conceded he is not able to cycle as much as he would like due to his age, but still manages 25 to 30 miles in the saddle every other day.

“This year I’ll do about 8,000 which is going to be my lowest ever,” he said.

“These days I cycle about 25 to 30 miles every other day, I’m used to doing so much more. My fitness has always been great but over the last three years it has deteriorated.”

28 Oct 23:32

KNOCK KNOCK

by twistedsifter
Jim Paull

Imagine if zoots thought that was us.

 

Hello Internet, this is Julius. Here are a few things about this video:

– “Bored of being in a dark room, she flips on the light, opens the door and bails.”
– “This particular episode takes place at 1am.”
– “This is why we keep doors locked with her around. We don’t need her harassing the neighbors.”
– “No, there is nobody else in the room with her. She just learned how to open doors, and continued to do so.”
– “Yes, she CAN open round knobs, too. I do have a video of it, but it was recorded on a Motorola Razr in 2004, so looks like it was taken on a potato.”
– “No, she was not injured in the fall. Her little snakey bones are very flexible, and surrounded with dense muscle. The only thing wounded in this clip was her pride.”
– “Toe door handle was removed immediately after this clip was filmed. Cute as she was, pythons are destructive in their exploring and we didn’t want to wake up to the flat a shambles.”

 

see more videos button KNOCK KNOCK

twistedsifter on facebook KNOCK KNOCK

28 Oct 01:24

How to Organize Your Office

A well-organized office can help improve your focus and efficiency while you’re working since you won’t have so much clutter. Once you put everything in a specific place, you’ll save more time trying to find it later. Try changing the layout of your office furniture to help you feel less stressed throughout the day. Once the layout of your office is set, organizing your office supplies and papers will make your office clean and uncluttered.

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Adjusting the Layout

  1. Position your desk so you can look out a window if you can. Being able to look out a window while you work can help reduce stress levels and focus better on your work. Move your desk to a location where you can easily sit down and glance out the window occasionally. Check that there is no glare on your computer screen or light in your eyes throughout the day so you don’t get distracted or annoyed.[1]
    Organize Your Office Step 1 Version 2.jpg
    • If you’re working in an open-plan office or a cubicle, talk to your office administrator or boss to see if it’s okay to change the position of your desk.
  2. Keep the things you use most frequently closest to you. Write lists of the things that you use daily, weekly, and monthly so you know what’s important to keep near you. Keep the things you use daily within arm’s reach of your desk so you can grab them when you need to. If you use things less frequently, store them in drawers or closets that are further away to remove clutter and save space.[2]
    Organize Your Office Step 2 Version 2.jpg
    • For example, if you don’t use a printer often, keep it on the other side of the room so it’s not taking up space on your desk.
    • If there are things that you use multiple times per day, keep them on your desk, a nearby shelf, or in the top drawer of your desk.
  3. Get rolling furniture so you can move things out of the way easily. Look for organizers, shelves, or cabinets that have wheels so you can pull them out when you need to and then put them back. Keep shorter things, like filing cabinets or shelves, under your desk if you have room and only move them when you need to access them. Try using an office chair with wheels if you’re able so you can roll to a different part of your office to access something.[3]
    Organize Your Office Step 3 Version 2.jpg
  4. Keep a trash can in your office so you can get rid of things right away. Store a small bin to the side of your desk or underneath it if you have extra leg room. That way, if you have any trash or files that you don’t need anymore, you can throw them away immediately rather than letting them clutter up your space.[4]
    Organize Your Office Step 4 Version 2.jpg
    • Be sure to change the garbage bag frequently so your office stays fresh and clean.
    • Shred any documents with personal info on them before you throw them away.
  5. Add a few personal touches to your office so you feel comfortable. Keep a few personal items in your office to make it your own space and so it doesn’t feel too sterile. Hang art on the walls or keep pictures on your desk to make your office a relaxing place to be. You can also keep small knick-knacks or plants somewhere on your desk as long as it doesn’t clutter your workspace.[5]
    Organize Your Office Step 5 Version 2.jpg
    • Limit yourself to 1-2 items on your desk or else they might take up too much space.

[Edit]Storing Your Supplies

  1. Get rid of any supplies you don’t use. Sort through the things you have in your office and determine how often you use them. If you have any items that you rarely or never use, put them in a separate box or container. Once you go through your entire office, get rid of anything you have in the box so it doesn’t add any clutter.
    Organize Your Office Step 6 Version 2.jpg
    • If you’re in an office building, put any unused supplies back in a supply closet so other people can take them if they need to.[6]
  2. Store pens and small office supplies in cups so you can access them easily. Place 1-2 cups on your desk within arm’s reach and place all your pens inside of them. Store other long office supplies, such as scissors in their own cups as well. Store the pens and supplies so they point down so you don’t accidentally hurt yourself when you try grabbing for something.[7]
    Organize Your Office Step 7 Version 2.jpg
    • You can also buy desktop organizers that have various compartments if you don’t want to use multiple cups.
    • Use glass mason jars if you want your desk to look more decorative.
  3. Use silverware trays to sort small office supplies. Get silverware trays that have multiple compartments so you can separate your office supplies. Store similar supplies together in the same section of the tray so you stay organized. Put the things you use often in front of the drawer and anything you use less toward the back.[8]
    Organize Your Office Step 8 Version 2.jpg
    • You can also buy small plastic bins and lay them out inside your drawers however you want.
  4. Label containers or bins so you know what’s in them. Put items that you don’t use frequently inside storage bins and keep them in a closet or shelf if you can. Only put 1-2 different items in the same bin so they don’t get disorganized. Make paper labels for each of your bins and tape them on the side so you can see what’s stored in them at a glance. Be descriptive with your labels so you don’t get confused later on.[9]
    Organize Your Office Step 9 Version 2.jpg
    • You can buy plastic storage bins from any department store or online.
  5. Get cord holders to remove visual clutter underneath your desk. Cords underneath your desk can look disorganized and easily tangle around your feet. Group all of your cables together and close them inside a cord holder so they aren’t all on the floor. Secure the cord holder against your wall or underneath your desk so your cables are organized.[10]
    Organize Your Office Step 10.jpg
    • You can buy cord holders from office supply stores or online.
    • You can also secure cables together or to the side of your desk with Velcro strips or zip ties.

[Edit]Removing Paper Clutter

  1. Shred any documents you don’t need that have personal information. Avoid throwing any documents that have things like account statements, legal documents, or credit card and social security numbers. Instead, get a paper shredder to destroy the documents so other people can’t steal the information. Once the papers are shredded completely, you can throw the scraps away as usual.[11]
    Organize Your Office Step 11.jpg
    • If you have important documents that you can’t get rid of, such as birth certificates, social security cards, or living wills, store them in a fireproof safe to protect them from any damage.
  2. Sort papers into a paper tray if you need to keep them on your desk. Paper trays have multiple tiers so you can separate different types of documents. Pick a vertical paper tray if you don’t have a lot of space, or a horizontal tray if you have some room to spare. Put the organizer near the edge of your desk so you can reach it easily throughout the day and grab what you need. Label each of the tiers so you know where certain documents should go.[12]
    Organize Your Office Step 12.jpg
    • You can buy paper trays from office supply stores.
    • Paper trays also work great for holding folders or notebooks.
    • Designate a section of your desk to stay clean so you have room to spread out if you need to.[13]
  3. Hang a wall pocket if you want to keep papers off your desk. Wall pockets are plastic trays that have multiple compartments to file documents and folders. Put a wall pocket near your desk so you can remove papers from your desk and reduce clutter. Make sure the different compartments are labeled so you don’t get confused later on.[14]
    Organize Your Office Step 13.jpg
    • Wall pockets can also be hung on the back of your door.
  4. Hang a bulletin board so you can easily glance at papers and memos. Find a place on your wall that has enough space for a bulletin board and put one up. Organize the bulletin board into sections where you can pin items, such as documents, receipts, sticky notes, and memos. Keep the most important documents visible and stack older ones underneath.[15]
    Organize Your Office Step 14.jpg
    • Many cubicles already have walls that you can put thumbtacks in.
    • Use differently colored thumbtacks for each type of document you hang. For example, you may hang memos with blue pins and receipts with red ones.
    • You can also pin personal photos if you don’t have space for them on your desk.
  5. Color-code folders so they’re easy to recognize. Get file folders in various colors and sort your documents so similar ones all share a single color. For example, you may put different types of expenses in red folders and income forms in green folders. Label the tabs on the folders with what type of document is inside. Once you have your documents organized, put them in a filing cabinet in a paper tray so you can find them easily.[16]
    Organize Your Office Step 15.jpg
    • You can also attach colored labels to the tabs of file folders if you don’t want to buy multiple colors.
  6. Try storing memos and schedules digitally to avoid using paper. If you want to cut back on the amount of paper you’re using, try writing any of your notes or schedules on your computer. Create folders on your computer and sort your documents into them, or use an online program to organize your files. Once a file is outdated, delete it so it doesn’t clutter up your computer.[17]
    Organize Your Office Step 16.jpg
    • Backup any important documents on a cloud storage site or external hard drive so you don’t lose them if your computer ever crashes.
    • If you have a scanner, you can upload physical documents onto your computer so you can get rid of the paper documents.

[Edit]Tips

  • Clean and organize your desk each day so it stays decluttered.[18]

[Edit]Related wikiHows

[Edit]References

  1. http://www.lonny.com/See+It+Now/articles/H3X1rUjgRoC/How+Organize+Office+Can+Change+How+Work
  2. https://youtu.be/kU5U4AZZ3pg?t=85
  3. http://www.oprah.com/home/peter-walshs-ten-steps-to-home-office-organization/all
  4. https://blog.managedbyq.com/how-to-declutter-and-organize-your-office
  5. https://www.roberthalf.com/blog/salaries-and-skills/how-to-organize-your-desk-for-maximum-efficiency
  6. http://www.oprah.com/home/peter-walshs-ten-steps-to-home-office-organization/all
  7. https://www.homedit.com/diy-cubicle-organization/
  8. https://www.cio.com/article/2404456/how-to-organize-your-office-and-boost-your-productivity.html
  9. https://youtu.be/o5_GlULF06U?t=57
  10. https://blog.managedbyq.com/how-to-declutter-and-organize-your-office
  11. https://portal.ct.gov/DCP/Common-Elements/Common-Elements/Guidelines-for-Shredding-and-Saving-Personal-Documents
  12. https://www.cio.com/article/2404456/how-to-organize-your-office-and-boost-your-productivity.html
  13. https://www.roberthalf.com/blog/salaries-and-skills/how-to-organize-your-desk-for-maximum-efficiency
  14. https://www.cio.com/article/2404456/how-to-organize-your-office-and-boost-your-productivity.html
  15. https://www.roberthalf.com/blog/salaries-and-skills/how-to-organize-your-desk-for-maximum-efficiency
  16. http://www.oprah.com/home/peter-walshs-ten-steps-to-home-office-organization/all
  17. https://www.roberthalf.com/blog/salaries-and-skills/how-to-organize-your-desk-for-maximum-efficiency
  18. http://www.oprah.com/home/peter-walshs-ten-steps-to-home-office-organization/all
28 Oct 01:24

How to Wear Flannel Shirts

Flannel shirts are the perfect fall garment—they’re warm and cozy and you can style them in about 100 different ways. Wear your flannel with T-shirts and jeans or joggers for a casual feel. Or, create smart casual and office-friendly looks with a flannel shirt by pairing them with items like a blazer or chinos.

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Creating Casual Looks

  1. Play around with colors and styles for a laidback vibe. Don’t feel like you have to stick with the traditional red and black or blue and black flannel shirts. You can easily find flannel shirts in all sorts of colors and washes. Try a distressed, acid-washed flannel for an edgy look or opt for a flannel shirt in pastel colors for a softer option.
    Wear Flannel Shirts Step 1.jpeg
  2. Create an effortless outfit by wearing a flannel with a T-shirt and jeans. This is probably the most popular way to style a flannel shirt. Simply toss on a T-shirt and layer your favorite flannel over top. Choose a graphic tee to make a statement or a plain tee for a more traditional approach. Any style of jeans will look great, from more relaxed fits to skinny jeans.[1]
    Wear Flannel Shirts Step 2.jpeg
    • Tuck in your T-shirt for a more refined look or leave it untucked for a laid-back vibe.
    • A red and black flannel, white T-shirt, and blue jeans is a classic outfit that works well for both men and women.
  3. Bring back '90s grunge style by tying a flannel around your waist. Throwback to the heyday of alternative rock by adding a flannel to your most worn-in and comfortable T-shirt and jeans. Tie the flannel around your waist and head out the door.[2]
    Wear Flannel Shirts Step 3.jpeg
    • Complete the look with Converse sneakers or combat boots and sunglasses.
  4. Run errands in a cozy flannel and leggings or joggers. Whether you’re headed to the mall or the market, it’s easy to create a simple but stylish outfit. Button up a flannel shirt and put on a pair of leggings or joggers in a matching neutral color.[3]
    Wear Flannel Shirts Step 4 Version 2.jpeg
    • Toss on some sneakers or boots and finish up the look with a baseball cap or beanie.
  5. Layer your flannel with warm outerwear for cold, wintery days. Flannel is a cold-weather fabric and looks great underneath sweaters and coats. Add a heavy winter jacket, a leather moto jacket, or a puffy fall vest for a great outdoorsy look.[4]
    Wear Flannel Shirts Step 5.jpeg
    • Black jeans, a blue and black flannel, and a black vest will keep you warm while also looking polished and put together.

[Edit]Dressing up Your Flannel Shirts

  1. Stick to neutral colors for work and dressier functions. Though flannel shirts are available in a wide array of colors and washes and even come distressed, stick with the more classic versions if you want to dress up. Choose traditional prints with colors like red, black, gray, blue, green, and white.[5]
    Wear Flannel Shirts Step 6.jpeg
  2. Pair a tucked-in flannel shirt with corduroy pants for an office-friendly look. You can look stylish and trendy in a flannel shirt while still staying comfortable. Rather than pairing your shirt with jeans, opt for corduroys to take this outfit to the next level.[6]
    Wear Flannel Shirts Step 7.jpeg
    • Complete this retro look with a pair of pumps and a matching handbag. Or, add a pair of Oxfords or brogues and grab your briefcase before heading to the office.
  3. Be a trendsetter by wearing a flannel shirt under a suit jacket or blazer. Button up your flannel and add a blazer or jacket on top for a polished look. Slip into a pair of dress pants, add some loafers or heels, and you’re good to go.[7]
    Wear Flannel Shirts Step 8.jpeg
    • For a formal look, pair a light-colored flannel print with a solid grey or blue suit and a thin, solid tie that matches the suit.
    • To create a smart business casual outfit, layer a darker flannel with a blue or brown blazer and wear it with a pair of office-friendly tan or brown chinos.
  4. Wear a flannel with a solid-colored skirt for a night out on the town. Depending on your style and your plans for the night, you can wear your favorite flannel shirt with a long, dark-colored skirt or with a fun and flirty mini-skirt. Make the look sexier by leaving several buttons undone on the shirt and pairing it with some brightly-colored heels.[8]
    Wear Flannel Shirts Step 9.jpeg
    • Stick to 2 contrasting colors to really make this outfit pop. For example, you could choose a red and black flannel print, a black skirt, red shoes, and a black handbag.
  5. Show up for a day date in a flannel shirt and chinos. For a classic and refined day-date look, select a freshly-pressed flannel shirt and pair it with crisp chinos. If you want to look more relaxed, leave the shirt untucked. As long as it’s wrinkle-free, it will still look nice enough for a day picking apples or walking in the park.[9]
    Wear Flannel Shirts Step 10.jpeg
    • A brown and black flannel, tan chinos, and brown Chelsea boots make for a great date outfit.

[Edit]Accessorizing Your Outfit

  1. Put on sneakers or boots for casual styles. Converse shoes are a great match for flannel shirts. Several styles of boots, from combat boots to knee-high boots with heels, also work well. Opt for shoes in neutral colors so your flannel shirt is the star of the show.[10]
    Wear Flannel Shirts Step 11.jpeg
    • Avoid sandals or strappy shoes, as they’ll contrast with the cold-weather feel that flannel shirts have.
  2. Wear heels or loafers to dress up your outfit. If you’re sporting a flannel to the office or for a date, choose a dressier shoe to complete your look. Pumps, loafers, Oxfords, or brogues are great choices.[11]
    Wear Flannel Shirts Step 12.jpeg
  3. Top off your look with a baseball cap or beanie. Flannel shirts pair well with hats, especially for casual looks. Stick with a baseball cap in the warmer months or choose a beanie if the weather is colder. You could even add a straw or cowboy hat if the occasion calls for it.[12]
    Wear Flannel Shirts Step 13.jpeg
    • A blue beanie, blue and green flannel shirt, jeans, and boots make for a smart, cozy outfit.
  4. Add a pair of suspenders for a chic look. Tuck your flannel shirt into a pair of jeans or chinos and strap on a pair of suspenders to create an outfit that’s perfect for a crisp fall day. Add a pair of boots or Brogues to finish it off.
    Wear Flannel Shirts Step 14.jpeg
  5. Opt for understated jewelry rather than statement pieces. A simple necklace or bracelet are the perfect accessories for a flannel shirt. Avoid large or gaudy jewelry which could make your outfit look too busy.[13]
    Wear Flannel Shirts Step 15.jpeg
    • A pastel flannel over a white tank top, a denim mini-skirt, and a few bangle bracelets would look great for a movie date.

[Edit]Tips

  • When choosing a shirt or jacket to your flannel, pick one in a hue from the plaid pattern. This will keep your look uniform and crisp.
  • Flannel comes in a single nap (one side is brushed/soft) and a double nap (both sides are brushed/soft). For warmer wear, choose a double nap flannel shirt over a single nap.

[Edit]Related wikiHows

[Edit]References

  1. https://www.seventeen.com/fashion/style-advice/tips/g213/how-to-wear-plaid-clothing/?slide=4
  2. https://www.marieclaire.com/fashion/g22798875/flannel-outfits/
  3. https://www.marieclaire.com/fashion/g22798875/flannel-outfits/
  4. https://www.marieclaire.com/fashion/g22798875/flannel-outfits/
  5. https://www.thetrendspotter.net/how-to-wear-a-flannel-shirt/
  6. https://www.marieclaire.com/fashion/g22798875/flannel-outfits/
  7. https://www.dmarge.com/2019/01/how-to-wear-plaid.html
  8. https://www.seventeen.com/fashion/style-advice/tips/g213/how-to-wear-plaid-clothing/?slide=6
  9. https://www.thetrendspotter.net/how-to-wear-a-flannel-shirt/
  10. https://www.thetrendspotter.net/how-to-wear-a-flannel-shirt/
  11. https://www.thetrendspotter.net/how-to-wear-a-flannel-shirt/
  12. https://menwit.com/mens-flannel-shirts
  13. https://www.glamour.com/story/14-ways-to-wear-your-favorite
26 Oct 08:25

Chinese men, woman to ‘spend each night’ in Tanzania jail until project completion

by AFP
Jim Paull

No extension for you, straight to jail.

NAIROBI: Tanzanian authorities said Thursday they arrested four Chinese contractors because of slow progress in state-funded construction projects, in what was an “example” to other businesses.

The three men and a woman are employed by two companies contracted to build a canal and a section of road in Dar es Salaam.

Abubakar Kunenge, executive secretary of the Dar es Salaam region, said work on the two schemes was “going nowhere”.

“The governor of the Dar es Salaam region, Paul Makonda, ordered the arrest of these business people … he wants it to serve as an example to others,” said Kunenge.

He said the four would “spend each night at the central police station and go every morning to supervise the works until (Makonda) decides the speed of work is sufficient”.

“These are projects of great public interest… business people who cannot respect contracts have no place in Dar es Salaam.”

President John Magufuli’s government has become known for meting out summary measures such as breaking or forcing the renegotiation of contracts with foreign companies it considers unfair, or cracking down on gays, pregnant schoolgirls, the media and opposition.

26 Oct 08:21

China demands ‘severe punishment’ for those who caused truck deaths

by Reuters
Jim Paull

Right out of that interview tv show.

A vigil for the 39 victims outside the Home Office in London. (AP pic)

GRAYS: China called on Britain on Friday to seek “severe punishment” for those involved in the deaths of 39 people, believed to be Chinese nationals, found in a truck container near London, while British police quizzed the driver on suspicion of murder.

Post-mortem examinations of 11 of the deceased began as police and forensic experts sought to identify the dead, how they had died and who was involved in the suspected human trafficking ring.

Detectives were continuing to quiz the 25-year-old truck driver from Northern Ireland who was arrested after the grim discovery of the bodies in the back of his refrigerated truck on an industrial estate near London in the early hours of Wednesday morning.

He has not been formally identified but a source familiar with the investigation named him as Mo Robinson from the Portadown area of the British province.

Detectives will decide later whether to charge him with an offence, release him or ask a court for more time to quiz him.

Late on Thursday, British authorities moved 11 of the victims – 31 men and eight women – to a hospital mortuary from a secure location at docks near to the industrial estate in Grays about 30km east of London where the bodies were found.

Police have said the process of identifying those who died would take some time while autopsies were carried out to determine how exactly they died.

“This is the largest investigation of its kind Essex Police has ever had to conduct and it is likely to take some considerable time to come to a conclusion,” Essex Chief Constable Ben-Julian Harrington said.

His force has said their priority was ensuring respect and compassion for the victims.
The Chinese Embassy in London said it had sent a team to Essex, and Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying said police had not yet been able to verify the nationalities of the deceased.

“We hope that the British side can as soon as possible confirm and verify the identities of the victims, ascertain what happened and severely punish criminals involved in the case,” she told a daily news briefing.

For years, illegal immigrants have attempted to reach Britain stowed away in trucks, often from the European mainland. In 2000, 58 Chinese were found dead in a tomato truck at the port of Dover.

China’s Global Times, which is published by the ruling Communist Party’s official People’s Daily, said in a Friday editorial that Britain should bear some responsibility for the deaths.

“It is clear that Britain and relevant European countries have not fulfilled their responsibility to protect these people from such a death,” the widely read tabloid said.

It added that Britain appeared not to have learned its lesson from the Dover incident two decades ago.

“Could the British and European people ask themselves why they have not been able to avoid a similar tragedy … Did they take all the serious remedial action that they could have?” it said.

Truck’s movements

The focus of the police investigation is on the movement of the trailer prior to its arrival at Purfleet docks near Grays little more than an hour before the bodies were found and who was behind the suspected human trafficking.

Irish company Global Trailer Rentals said it owned the trailer and had rented it out on Oct 15. The firm said it was unaware of what it was to be used for.

The refrigeration unit had travelled to Britain from Zeebrugge in Belgium and the town’s chairman, Dirk de Fauw, said he believed the victims died in the trailer before it arrived there.

The Times newspaper reported that GPS data showed the container had arrived at the Belgian port at 2.49pm on Tuesday before later making the 10-hour trip to Britain.

Police said the cab unit of the truck was driven over from Dublin on Sunday, entering Britain in North Wales.

It picked up the trailer in Purfleet shortly after midnight on Wednesday.

The National Crime Agency, which targets serious and organised crime, said it was helping the investigation and working urgently to identify any gangs involved.

The head of the Road Haulage Association said traffickers were “upping their game” and closer cooperation with European nations was needed, although that may be complicated by Britain’s potential exit from the European Union.

21 Oct 04:35

6 universal etiquette tips for anyone who exercises while traveling

by Chris Castellano

Have you ever seen someone working out in the airport terminal? Or using the airplane as his or her own personal gymnasium? If you travel frequently, the chances are pretty good you have.

Fitness is a way of life for many people, including those who fly often. Many travelers struggle to find time to exercise and must get creative, so an airport terminal during a long layover might just do the trick. And there are plenty of leisure travelers who would never consider skipping a workout.

I love to stay fit while I travel. Exercise is part of my daily routine at home, and that doesn’t change when I’m traveling. But people who work out on the road need to keep a few rules of conduct in mind — otherwise you could find yourself on Passenger Shaming’s naughty list.

Related: The 7 best starter credit cards

Freshen up after a workout

That person you saw at the gate doing wall sits could very well be sitting next to you on your flight, so let’s hope he or she freshens up before boarding. Working out in the airport is a great way to pass the time during an extended layover, but you need to make sure you carve out time for hygiene. No one wants to sit next to a sweaty person on a plane, especially in economy.

Many airport lounges — including a handful of top Priority Pass lounges in the U.S. — have showers, so if you’re planning to exercise and have access to a lounge, take a post-workout shower. If that’s not an option, at least bring a change of clothes and body wipes with you. It’ll only take a few minutes, and your seatmate will thank you.

Be mindful of your fellow travelers

When working out, be considerate of those around you in the airport, hotel or anywhere else your travels may take you. Stay out of the way of people in a hurry to make their flights, especially if you feel the need to do lunges or air squats on the moving walkway in the terminal. (I’ve seen it happen.)

That also means keeping your shoes on (bare feet are just as gross at the airport as they are on the airplane); trying to avoid excessive grunting and other noises; and getting too sweaty. If you’re working out in the airport, for example, keep the intensity down a bit. I’m not saying you shouldn’t push yourself, but be aware of your perspiration. Shed some layers if need be, and make sure you’re not dripping sweat everywhere.

Don’t force your fitness routine on others

Let’s not force our workouts on anyone who isn’t interested. Many leisure travelers want nothing to do with physical exertion while on vacation, and that’s fine. Let them enjoy their vacation the way they wish to. If you can’t resist working out, do your thing. But don’t make others feel like they should be doing it too.

Keep the noise down

How would you feel if you were trying to get some sleep in a hotel room and the person directly above you was jumping around in their room?

Burpees, for example, are a great travel exercise. They’re very effective for everything from fat loss to muscle growth, and they require no equipment. But there’s a time and a place for them. That goes for jumping jacks, jump squats, jumping lunges or jumping anything. If it requires your feet to leave the ground, save it for when you’re on the ground floor.

The same thing goes for early morning and late-night workouts. We all deal with busy schedules when traveling, so you may have to exercise before the sun comes up or at the end of the day. That’s fine, but just remember that those burpees make a lot of noise and your neighbors might be sleeping.

And, again, no matter where you are, try to keep the shouting, grunting and yelling to a minimum. Also, though it may seem obvious, not everyone wants to listen to your hardcore gym playlist, so use headphones. Many hotel gyms even offer them for free.

Never wake your travel partners for a workout

A lot of fitness enthusiasts like to start their day with a workout. Whether it’s going for a run, swimming laps in the pool or using the hotel gym, many of us workout “junkies” are early risers. But when you’re traveling with others, keep in mind that it’s best to not wake them because you can’t find your running shoes.

If you’re staying in a room with others, here’s some advice: Lay out your workout clothes, supplements, headphones and anything else you’re going to use during your workout the night before. Set your phone alarm to vibrate and keep your phone close by (this has never failed me). Get up, make as little noise as possible, get ready for your workout and get out the door as quietly as you can.

Don’t treat the airplane like your home gym

Simple stretches are great for long flights, as are easy, unobtrusive exercises (think: taking a stroll around the cabin when the pilot turns off the seatbelt sign). Staying active on an airplane can make the flight more comfortable, and keep the blood flowing. But as a general rule of thumb, never block the aisle or disrupt your neighbors. That means you won’t be leading any yoga classes in the galley, using the aisle for walking lunges or practicing any stretches that involve banging into your seatmates.

Featured illustration by Abbie Winters.

21 Oct 04:33

4 tips when looking for a professional caregiver

by Pillar
Jim Paull

I don't see how this is newsworthy, it's common sense.

A professional caregiver can deliver the right level of care and attention to an elderly person.

Asians tend to look down on children who send their elderly parents to a nursing home. Despite better care and supervision at these care centres, the concept of saving “face” prevents many from placing their elderly at these homes.

Plan B usually entails hiring a domestic worker to take care of them at home while also assisting with household chores.

But is a domestic worker equipped with the skills needed to care for those who are bedridden or who require palliative care? What if the elderly person suffers from dementia?

Although a dedicated caregiver may know how to clean and dress pressure ulcers or wounds, gently rub or massage and help with simple physiotherapy, there is no guarantee that they are trained or qualified to carry out such tasks.

For example, if a bed sore is not dressed right, the wound can become infected. Rough exercises on the other hand, could result in sore muscles.

A trained caregiver

While employing a caregiver is not common among Malaysians, there is a growing demand for trained and experienced caregivers for the elderly which has encouraged local healthcare entrepreneurs to venture into this area of expertise.

The aim is to provide a solution for those who wish to give their elderly the best care during their golden years.

It’s important to know if a potential caregiver has the right qualifications to care for someone who can’t care for themselves.

4 things to consider when looking for a professional caregiver

1. Trusted service provider. A little research on a company’s background will not hurt as you are going to entrust their employees with your loved one. Look for an agency with an established and reputable background in the field.

A legitimate agency will openly share reviews of past clients on their website whether it is a positive review or constructive criticism to improve their service.

2. Make an inquiry. Prepare a list of questions related to the care you need and what the agency can offer. The agency should be helpful as you are a potential customer. So feel free to address your concerns to the service provider’s customer advisors.

3. Get to know who the future caregiver is. It is important to know who your new in-house assistant is, so conduct a background check. Here are some areas of importance:

• Are they trained? What level of training do they have and where were they trained?
• Are they certified and experienced?
• Are they local nurses/caregivers or legal foreigners?

4. Ask for personal details. This would cover the caregiver’s culture, religion, and spoken language. This helps ensure that they will be a good fit for you and your loved one.

Having support in the home will give you a sense of added safety and security to continue functioning on a daily basis, safe in the knowledge that your loved one is in the hands of a professional.

When mobility and health problems are a concern, there is always the possibility of a fall, or an emergency that will necessitate quick action. In times like these, having a qualified and trained caregiver to watch over a loved one, is definitely reassuring.

This article was written by Fariza Kasani, a Care Manager with Pillar, and reviewed by Andrew Mastrandonas, Pillar’s Co-founder and CEO. Pillar provides a range of elderly at-home caregiving services, sending trained and certified professional caregivers and nurses to clients’ homes. For more information, visit here.

21 Oct 03:31

DASH building works bring sleepless nights for condo residents

by Joel Shasitiran
Jim Paull

Another reason not to airbnb there.

Pillars for the Damansara-Shah Alam Elevated Expressway seen in close proximity to the Metropolitan Square condominium.

PETALING JAYA: Residents of a condominium at Damansara Perdana are up in arms over noise from the construction of the Damansara-Shah Alam Elevated Expressway or DASH which they say has been giving them sleepless nights for about two years now.

According to a resident who asked to be known as Firdaus, construction work is taking place too close to the Metropolitan Square condominium.

He told FMT that many were bothered by the sound of cranes and loud hammering even early in the morning.

“I have to come down and scold the construction workers every now and then, just for them to stop their work and allow people to sleep,” he said.

The Street, Drainage and Building Act 1974 states that construction work can only be done from 8am to 6pm, Monday to Saturday with the exception of public holidays.

But Firdaus said work sometimes begins much earlier than 8am and continues past the cut-off point. He shared several video clips of him scolding a construction worker for the noise at about 4am, and said there were other videos of work continuing after 6pm.

He said the proximity of the work site to the condominium was a problem.

Criteria for environmental impact assessments by the Department of Environment state that construction work cannot be done too close to residential units to prevent noise pollution.

Part of the highway structure seen close to Block D of the Metropolitan Square condominium.

According to a construction plan shared by Firdaus, work on the highway would take place at least 14m from the residential area.

However, a closer look showed that several pillars were only a few feet away from one of the condominium blocks.

Firdaus said traffic congestion was another concern for the residents, with bumper-to-bumper conditions on most weekdays.

“You can barely go over 5km an hour here,” he added.

When it rains, he said, driving conditions deteriorate as roads often flood.

A restaurant owner in the area who identified himself as William said businesses are also suffering from the noise and dust of the construction.

He indicated one of the expressway’s pillars which had been erected close to his restaurant, which he said had affected his business.

“The previous tenant closed his shop because business was getting bad,” he said.

“I just started mine here, and I can tell that pollution and parking is a problem because of this construction.”

A crane parked right outside the main entrance of the condominium.

William is hopeful that things will get better once construction is over, but fears that parking will remain an issue.

The land at Damansara Perdana where the expressway is being built is owned by Saujana Triangle, a subsidiary of MK Land. The expressway as a whole is owned by Prolintas.

According to Firdaus, property prices have also been affected by the highway construction.

“Before the construction, units were priced at RM500,000 to RM600,000,” he said.

“Now, selling them off for even RM300,000 is difficult.”

Before construction began, he said, he had gone door-to-door to collect signatures for a memorandum against it but to no avail.

“The very least they could do is compensate us for our trouble since there is no way to stop the construction now.”

20 Oct 11:51

Ceiling fan drops on man’s head at police summons counter

by Bernama
Jim Paull

Hahaha ouch

The injured victim being attended to by Civil Defence Force officers in Nilai.

NILAI: A ceiling fan fell on a restaurant worker’s head while he was settling his traffic summonses at a police payment counter here today.

Nilai deputy police chief Azrul Hisham Mohd Shaffei said the incident occurred at 12.20pm at an exhibition booth in conjunction with the 2019 Negeri Sembilan Fest in Dataran Nilai here.

“The victim, Mohammad Zaki Yaakob, 39, from Kajang, Selangor, was paying his traffic summons at the counter when a ceiling fan fell and hit his head.

“The victim was given initial treatment by members of the Civil Defence Force before being taken to Tuanku Ja’afar Hospital, Seremban, for further treatment.

“The victim has been reported to be in stable condition,” he said in a statement here today. The man received nine stitches to his wound.

Azrul said the traffic summons payment counter was open during the weekend in conjunction with the 2019 NS Fest, organised by the state, which was held for four days from Thursday.

19 Oct 14:30

Should I take supplements during air travel — if so, which ones?

by Daniel O’Shaughnessy

The word supplement means exactly what it says on the packet … an add-on that supplements something. Dietary supplements are not designed to replace a healthy eating plan. However, we are in a fast-paced society where there are a lot of toxins, poor food choices and nutrient-depleted soil, so now it is more important than ever to consider a supplement in your daily routine.

Are supplements expensive?

Supplement quality varies just the same as food quality does. For instance, you can choose to buy basic “economy” meat or organic free-range meat. This applies to supplements, and most mass market-produced supplements are low quality and have little effect on the body. There are, however, some supplements that have shown efficacy in clinical trials and support the body the way they are intended to.

(Photo courtesy of Getty Images)

How to choose a good supplement

The first thing is to look at what fillers and binders are in the supplement. These can be ingredients such as magnesium stearate, sucrose (sugar), silca and calcium carbonate. Ideally you should avoid these entirely — so look for a company that does not use any fillers or binders. Next, the vitamins should be in their “active” form. Look for L-Methyl Folate over Folic Acid, Magnesium Glycinate over Magnesium Oxide and Methyl-B12 over Cyno-B12. Finally you should consider the amounts you are getting in the supplements. A good quality supplement brand can offer 25-50mg of B2 where an inferior brand may only offer 1mg, for example.

Whilst supplements can be very effective, you should be careful that they don’t interfere with medication that you are already taking. Speak to a health professional before taking any.

Further reading: How to stick to your diet if you’re a frequent flyer 

Supplements do different things, so there isn’t a single multi-tablet you can take that will cover everything you need. Obviously, there are some side effects that can occur as a result from flying long hours, and in this case, taking a supplement can prevent unwanted symptoms or help speed up recovery at your destination.

Probiotics

With the low cabin pressure, some passengers can get off a long-haul flight feeling bloated and even constipated for a few days. Coupled with a new environment and cuisine, it may give some digestion issues, so it’s good to support digestion with a probiotic when traveling.

It can be particularly useful to supplement this with Sacromyces Boulardii, which will further support the immune system of the gut and ward off the unwanted “Delhi Belly.” Saccharomyces boulardii helps to fight off disease-causing organisms in the gut and you can buy it in health shops. It’s often labeled as a “bowel calm” on the packet. It’s best to take both for a few days before traveling, during your trip, and a few days after.

Make sure you get a shelf-stable probiotic so you don’t have to refrigerate it at your destination.

Digestive Enzymes

To further support digestion, you could consider taking a digestive enzyme on the plane when eating. This can support your body in breaking down food.

There are three main types of digestive enzymes:

  • Proteases: These break down protein into small peptides and amino acids.
  • Lipases: These break down fat into three fatty acids plus a glycerol molecule.
  • Amylases: These break down carbs like starch into simple sugars.

Some people may not be able to naturally make enough digestive enzymes, which can slow the digestion process and therefore lead to uncomfortable symptoms such as bloating and flatulence. You can buy a digestive enzyme complex, which should have all of the enzymes listed above. Enzymes should ideally be taken 20 minutes before eating.

Magnesium

If you just want to take one supplement while traveling, then magnesium is the one. It’s the one supplement that can act as an all-rounder and in terms of flying, yields benefits for jet lag, rehydrates by supplying electrolytes, relaxes muscles, helps promote calm in the body and also supports the nervous system for panicky flyers.

Magnesium comes in many forms — the most preferred is Magnesium Glycinate, which has the best bioavailability and is easy on the bowels.

Further reading: Things you should do before, during and after flying to stay healthy 

Supplements for preventing leg clots

Nattokinase and Pine Bark extract are researched to help protect against Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT), which can occur when traveling long distances without much movement. These supplements can prevent leg swelling and leg clots and thrombotic risks in travelers.

Supplements for the immune system

Traveling can put a stress on the immune system so it’s important that it is functioning well. Key nutrients for the immune system include vitamin A, C, D, Zinc, Elderberry and Beta Glucans. Don’t fret over taking all of these individually, as many supplement companies offer immune complexes which have most, if not all of the above in their ingredients.

Even if you’re not a fan of supplements then it’s wise to make sure your vitamin D is sufficient. You can request a test from your GP or online and it’s advised to supplement with D3 if deficient.

Image by Getty
(Photo courtesy of Getty Images)

Antioxidants

These supplements can play a role in fighting free radicals in the body and also protect the skin against sun damage when traveling. If you’re a frequent flyer or cabin crew, then it may support the radiation impact from flying. Supplements to include are vitamin C, E, Selenium and also Glutathione — a master antioxidant in the body.

Supplements for jet lag

Melatonin (the sleep hormone) is an over-the-counter supplement and widely used among frequent flyers. There can be other ways to support recovery from jet lag. You can use valerian drops or even use 5-HTP, a supplement, which comes from the seeds of an African shrub known as “Griffonia simplicifolia.” 5-HTP helps produce serotonin and then converts it to the hormone melatonin and therefore promotes sleep.

Featured photo courtesy of Getty Images.

18 Oct 09:03

Why you should take your family on a vacation to Malaysia

by Elen Turner

Kuala Lumpur might not be as popular as neighboring Bangkok or as glamorous as Singapore, but the Malaysian capital is one of Southeast Asia’s busiest air hubs. There are lots of fun and interesting things to do there that both kids and adults will enjoy, and although it’s a hot, busy city, there are many natural areas to retreat to. Travelers seeking a slightly under-the-radar stopover destination on the way to Malaysia’s beaches, or other destinations in the region will appreciate a couple of days in KL.

In This Post

Getting there and around

KL has two international airports: Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL) and KLIA2 (KUL 2), the latter of which operates flights from regional budget carriers. Both terminals are quite near each other, but they’re 36 miles south of central KL, about an hour by car or a half-hour by train.

Related: The Best Credit Cards for Family Travel

If coming on a long-haul flight from North America or Europe, you’ll likely arrive into KLIA. This is served by major international airlines including Malaysian Airlines, Emirates, British Airways, Etihad, Singapore Airlines, Turkish Airlines and many more.

You can use miles from  many programs to get to KUL. Here’s a random sampling of availability in May using Delta SkyMiles: 79,000 miles plus $106.25 per person in economy. That flight includes travel on Delta and Korean Air aircraft but other options include flights with China Southern and KLM.

American Airlines charges 37,500 AAdvantage miles one-way for travel from LAX to KUL and availability in economy is wide open in May. The most direct routing from LAX–HKG–KUL includes just two flights aboard American and Dragonair. A round-trip ticket is 75k AAdvantage miles plus $86.95.

It’s easy to get from the airport to the city, even though it’s quite far away. Taxis are the most expensive option and take around an hour, but have the benefit of dropping you right at your hotel, which you might want if it’s late or your kids are tired. Buses are less comfortable but cheaper and also take around an hour. The KLIA Express train combines affordability and relative comfort, so unless you really just need to get your kids to the hotel pronto, this is a good option. It takes around 30 minutes to reach KL Sentral, from where you can get a taxi to your hotel. The train is well sign-posted in the airport.

Traffic in KL can be heavy, but taxis are easily available if you want to go slightly further afield. They use meters, and are quite affordable. Otherwise, six rail lines operate throughout the city. They’re clean, efficient, cheap and will get you to most places of interest, or within a short walk from them. They also run along elevated tracks, so are a good way to get a view of the city.

The KL Hop-On Hop-Off Bus is an easy way for families to get around while sightseeing at the same time. The top deck is open air. Tickets are valid for 24 or 48 hours, so are ideal if you’re on a quick stopover in the city. They stop at many of the fun attractions discussed below, as well as other highlights like the National Museum, the Hard Rock Cafe, and various malls.

Where to stay

KL is a major business hub, so although many hotels cater to business travelers, there are still some good features for families.

Rooms and suites at Le Meridien Kuala Lumpur are spacious, if rather impersonal, and there’s a beautiful outdoor pool surrounded by palm trees that kids will love. The business-like atmosphere is made up for by the convenient location near the Sentral railway station, where all train lines and buses converge, which will help family travelers get around the city easily. This hotel is a Category 3 in the Marriott Bonvoy program and goes for 15,000 points per night.

La Meridien Kuala Lampur. (Photo courtesy of La Meridien)
La Meridien Kuala Lampur. (Photo courtesy of La Meridien)

The Hilton Kuala Lumpur is also handy to Sentral. It’s an especially good pick for families as they offer special family packages, plus they have children’s menus and a lovely pool with a special section for kids. Connecting rooms are available for families. Depending on when you visit, award nights range from 21,000 to 40,000 Hilton Honors points.

The Westin Kuala Lumpur (also a Marriott Category 3 for 15k points per night) is in a different part of town, Bukit Bintang, which is near a number of good shopping malls. It too has a great swimming pool, and a kids club.

The Westin Kuala Lampur. (Photo courtesy of Westin)
The Westin Kuala Lampur. (Photo courtesy of Westin)

If you have World of Hyatt points, you have three options. The Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur in the Golden Triangle, near the convention center, goes for 12k point per night. The Hyatt House Kuala Lumpur, Mont Kiara has kitchen suites and a free buffet breakfast for 8k points per night or try the Alila Bangsar Kuala Lumpur for just 5k points per night. All three have pools, laundry service and are close to restaurants and shops.

Remember that you can transfer Chase Ultimate Rewards points to both Marriott Bonvoy and World of Hyatt on a 1:1 basis. Earn Ultimate Rewards points with cards like the Chase Sapphire Reserve, Chase Sapphire Preferred Card or the Ink Business Preferred Credit Card.

For Marriott points, there are many cobranded cards that can help boost your Bonvoy balance, including:

Or, if you’re going the Hilton route, pick the best credit card for your family. I like the Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card since it confers automatic Diamond elite status. The welcome bonus is 150,000 points after spending $4,000 on eligible purchases in the first three months.

What to see

KL is a big, busy city and the traffic and dense concentration of buildings in the central areas mean it’s not a great place to just wander aimlessly around, with or without children in tow. But, there are many cultural and natural attractions right in, or very near, the city. It’s easy to get out of the urban jungle and into more peaceful, kid-friendly spaces.

Perdana Botanical Gardens

The Perdana Botanical Gardens are a huge natural area just west of the central city. As well as the landscaped gardens that are a nice place to walk (or, for little legs to run), there are other free attractions within the gardens, such as the Hibiscus and Orchid Gardens, the Deer Park and the Herb and Spice Garden.

Kuala Lumpur Bird Park
Kuala Lumpur Bird Park. (Photo by Elen Turner)

Within the Perdana Botanical Gardens there are also some stand-out attractions that you must pay to enter. These include the Kuala Lumpur Bird Park, and the Kuala Lumpur Butterfly Park. The huge bird park is especially fun for kids (and adults!) because there are areas where the birds fly freely within the same space as human visitors—this isn’t just a place where you look at birds confined within cages. The more than 3000 birds belonging to 200 species are kept safely inside the park with huge nets above the treetops.

You could easily spend several hours here, or combine a visit to other attractions within the Perdana Botanical Gardens for a full day of natural fun. Just remember that KL’s climate is pretty hot and humid, and these attractions are outdoors.

Another natural attraction that kids will love is the KL Forest Eco Park, with a fun canopy walk.

Batu Caves

The Batu Caves are an absolute must-visit in KL. Located just 10 miles north of the central city and easily reached by train (or taxi), these limestone caves are sacred to Malaysia’s Tamil Indian population. There are three main caves and some smaller ones, and to get there you have to climb a steep staircase of 272 steps (a great way for little ones to work off steam!) Guarding the entrance to the caves is an enormous gold statue of Lord Murugan, who the caves are dedicated to. The caves are full of Hindu statues, temples, paintings, and other features, as well as bats (you’ll probably smell them before you see them!) and monkeys (do warn your kids not to feed them!)

These caves aren’t much like cave complexes you’ll find in other parts of the world, with underground boardwalks through chambers of stalagmites and stalactites, as there’s a much stronger cultural component at the Batu Caves. It’s free to explore unless you hire a guide or gear like a flashlight and helmet.

The steps up to the Batu Caves
The steps up to the Batu Caves. (Photo by Elen Turner)

Petronas Towers or the Menara KL Tower

The Petronas Twin Towers are possibly KL’s most famous attraction: the two 1482-foot towers, joined by a walkway, were the tallest buildings in the world between 1998 and 2004. They’re visible from practically everywhere in the city, and visiting the observation deck is a fun way to get a view across the whole city.

However, due to the towers’ popularity, you’ll have to book a time slot to go up them. You can’t just turn up and get a ticket to the observation deck right away. If you’re short on time in KL, or didn’t plan ahead, you might not be able to visit. Tickets are about $19 for adults and $8 for kids 3–12. Children 2 and under are free.

A great alternative is to go to the viewing deck of the Menara KL Tower nearby. Although not as high as the Petronas Towers, the Menara Tower has the benefit of views of the Petronas Towers, plus tickets are cheaper. A family combo ticket for two adults and one child costs about $21. There are amusement arcade games on lower levels that kids will also enjoy.

The KL Tower. (Photo by Alexaner Spatari/Getty Images)
The KL Tower. (Photo by Alexaner Spatari/Getty Images)

Central Market

The beautiful pastel blue Art Deco Central Market is a short walk from KL’s Chinatown, which is a fun destination itself but kids might find the heat and crowds uncomfortable. The Central Market is wonderfully air conditioned, so is a great place to retreat to for some shopping and eating.

If you’re looking for Malaysian crafts and souvenirs, this is an easy one-stop-shop, as you can buy everything from high-quality hand-painted batik fabrics to kitschy key rings. The stalls are on the first two floors, and the upper floor is a large food court.

The Central Market is a convenient place to try the Malaysian and other Southeast Asian ‘street’ food that you’ll find everywhere in KL but without concerns over hygiene. Although much street food outside is perfectly safe to eat, it’s understandable that parents would be wary of their kids eating food that’s been sitting around in the sun. At the food court in the Central Market you can try tropical fruit juices, curries, noodles, and fun Malaysian desserts without much concern. Malaysian food can be quite spicy, but chili is often added afterwards in a paste or sauce, so this can be avoided if your kids don’t like spice.

Central Market, Kuala Lumpur
Central Market, Kuala Lumpur. (Photo by Elen Turner)

Bottom line

KL is one of Southeast Asia’s most manageable capitals for family travelers: It’s smaller than Bangkok, cheaper than Singapore and better developed than Phnom Penh. Although it’s not a strong contender for a family vacation destination in its own right, it’s a fun place to stop over for a day or two on your way through.

15 Oct 01:29

Close to 100 areas in Hulu Langat to be hit by water disruptions

by FMT Reporters
Jim Paull

Don't know what area Pops is in but might be affected.

Air Selangor says it is resolving the problem at the Sungai Langat water treatment plant and minimising the impact of the water disruptions. (Bernama pic)

PETALING JAYA: Close to 100 areas in Hulu Langat are expected to face water disruptions following an electrical failure at the Sungai Langat treatment plant.

Air Selangor said their team is working to resolve the problem and minimise the impact of water disruptions to the affected areas.

“Water tanks will be deployed to consumers in critical areas,” it said in a statement.

The affected areas are:

Balakong, Kampung Sungai Semungkis, Taman Desa Saujana, Taman Saujana Palma, Bandar Mahkota Cheras, Kampung Sungai Tekali, Taman Desa Wangsa, Taman Selamat, Bandar Sungai Long, Kawasan Industri Bukit Angkat, Taman Impian Sejati, Taman Seri Minang, Bandar Tun Hussien Onn;

Laman Kesuma, Taman Kantan Permai, Taman Seri Sungai Long, Batu 10-14 Jalan Cheras, Maktab Polis Jalan Cheras, Taman Kemacahaya, Taman Seri Taming, Batu 9- 6 Jalan Hulu Langat, Mutiara Height (Prima Saujana), Taman Koperasi Maju Jaya, Taman Shah Jaya, Cheras Vista, Pekan Kajang, Taman Kota Cheras, Taman Sri Aman;

Country Heights, Pinggiran Saujana, Taman Lagenda Mas (1 & 2), Taman Sri Cheras, Desa Budiman, Prima Saujana, Taman Makmur, Taman Sri Cheras Jaya, Desa Seri Jenaris, Saujana Impian, Taman Mas 1 & 2, Taman Sri Kenari, Industri Sungai Chua, Taman Bukit Belimbing, Taman Megah Cheras, Taman Sri Mujur, Jade Hills;

Taman Bukit Palma, Taman Murni, Taman Sri Mujur, Jalan Kuari Sungai Long, Taman Bukit Permai, Taman Mutiara Jaya, Taman Sungai Sering, Kampug Sungai Raya, Taman Cahaya, Taman Orkid, Taman Suntex, Kampung Baru Cina Batu 9, Taman Cantik, Taman Permai Mas, Taman Sutera, Kampung Bukit Angkat;

Taman Cendana, Taman Pinggiran, Taman Sutera Residences, Kampung Jambu, Taman Cheras Intan, Taman Pinggiran Delima, Taman Taming Impian, Kampung Kenangan 18, Taman Cheras Mas, Taman Prima Suria, Taman Taming Mutiara, Kampung Sungai Balak, Taman Cheras Perdana, Taman Puncak Perdana, Taman Tanming Impian;

Kampung Sungai Jernih, Taman Cheras Permai, Taman Puncak Saujana, Taman Titiwangsa, Kampung Sungai Kantan, Taman Cheras Prima, Taman Puteri Cheras, Taman Tun Perak, Kampung Sungai Makau, Taman Damai Jaya, Taman Putri Jaya, Taman Wawasan;

Kampung Sungai Michu (Kg Bestari), Taman Desa Pelangi, Taman Rasa Sayang, Venice Hill, Kampung Sungai Ramal, Taman Desa Permai and Taman Saujana Damai.

Air Selangor advised consumers to check its app for updates or contact them via 15300 or WhatsApp 019-2800919/019-2816793 ijn case of an emergency.

02 Oct 05:18

Just In Case You Don’t Know.. Baby Crocs Sound Like They’re Shooting Laser Guns

by twistedsifter
Jim Paull

Awwwww, pew pew pew, awwwww

01 Oct 01:13

Top airports? Detroit, Indianapolis and Portland are best, says J.D. Power

by Ben Mutzabaugh
Jim Paull

Here is the poll.

North American travelers are the happiest with the airports in Detroit, Indianapolis and Portland, Oregon.

That’s according to J.D. Power, which found those airports topped the three categories in its 2019 North American Airport Satisfaction Survey.

Detroit took the top spot in J.D. Power’s “Mega” airports category, finishing with a score of 786 on a 1,000-point scale. But Indianapolis and Portland tied for the top overall score, their 833 points enough to earn the No. 1 sport in the survey’s “Large” and “Medium” airport categories, respectively.

At the other end of the spectrum are two New York City-area airports that frequently bring up the bottom in airport ratings: Newark Liberty and New York LaGuardia. Newark finished 19th out of the 19 airports including in the survey’s “Mega” category, its 695 points making it the lowest rated of all 62 airports in the survey. LaGuardia placed last in J.D. Power’s 27-airport “Large” category while Kahului on the Hawaiian island of Maui finished at the bottom of the “Medium” category.

The J.D. Power survey is one of several annual airport ratings, including one from TPG released this summer that used its own criteria.

Overall, travelers’ satisfaction scores with U.S. and Canadian airports ticked up year-over-year, rising one point from J.D. Power’s 2018 survey. But the group noted that rise came in spite of significant issues that weighed down on travelers’ opinions of airports. High on the list of concerns: construction.

Related: The Best Delta Sky Club Lounges, and How to Get Into Them

“Scaffolding and cranes are official welcome signs to several North American airports these days as record passenger volumes force major expansion efforts,” J.D. Power said in a statement, citing “road closures, confusing signage and delays that come with these projects.”

“With major terminal construction projects now underway in Los Angeles, Boston, Chicago, Atlanta and many other airports, it is becoming impossible for travelers not to experience some form of disruption,” Michael Taylor, J.D. Power’s Travel Intelligence Lead, said in a statement.

“While these projects are absolutely necessary to address surging demand, they are currently causing passenger delays and confusion,” Taylor added. “This translates into a rushed passenger experience and less money spent on food, beverage and retail – and it’s slowing the progress of the airport satisfaction we’ve seen in the past several years.”

As for the airports that topped survey’s three categories, J.D. Power said the “common bond … is relatively new facilities that accommodate increased passenger volume, incorporate localized food and beverage offerings and offer easy access.”

J.D. Power’s survey looked at satisfaction scores evaluating the three categories of airports across six factors. They were, in order of importance to the survey: cost and fees, in-flight services, aircraft, boarding/deplaning/baggage, flight crew, check-in, and reservations.

Related: Why American is headed to Africa, adding more Eastern Europe, and returning to Tel Aviv

The full methodology for the survey can be found at J.D. Power’s website, with the 2019 results are based on responses from 32,276 U.S. and Canadian travelers who flew during the past three months.

The full airport ratings are below.

“Mega” airports*

1. Detroit (DTW), 786 points (on a 1,000-point scale)

2. Minneapolis/St. Paul (MSP), 779 points

3-tie. Las Vegas (LAS), 777 points

3-tie. Orlando (MCO), 777 points

5-tie. Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW), 773 points

5-tie. Atlanta (ATL), 773 points

7. Phoenix (PHX), 770 points

8. Denver (DEN), 768 points

9. Houston George Bush Intercontinental (IAH), 764 points

Related: The Best Credit Cards for Airline Lounge Access

10. Charlotte (CLT), 763 points

11. Miami (MIA), 759 points

12. New York JFK, 758 points

Mega airports average: 756 points

13. San Francisco (SFO), 750 points

14. Toronto Pearson (YYZ), 745 points

15. Seattle (SEA), 740 points

16. Boston (BOS), 739 points

17. Chicago O’Hare (ORD), 731 points

18. Los Angeles (LAX), 726 points

19. Newark Liberty (EWR), 695 points

* = Mega airports are those having 33 million or more passengers per year; large airports have 10 to 32.9 million passengers per year; and medium airports have 4.5 to 9.9 million passengers per year, according to J.D. Power.

Related: Southwest Airlines Is Ending All Flights From Newark Liberty

 “Large” airports

1. Portland, Oregon (PDX), 833 points

2. Dallas Love (DAL), 826 points

3. Tampa (TPA), 822 points

4. Orange County/John Wayne, California (SNA), 815 points

5. Raleigh/Durham (RDU), 804 points

6. Vancouver, Canada (YVR), 801 points

7. Sacramento, California (SMF), 800 points

8. Nashville (BNA), 795 points

9. Austin (AUS), 791 points

10. Houston Hobby (HOU), 785 points

11. Salt Lake City (SLC), 779 points

12. San Jose, California (SJC), 777 points

Related: Here’s Which US Airline Cuts More Routes Than Any Other

13. San Diego (SAN), 774 points

14. Oakland (OAK), 769 points

15. Baltimore/Washington (BWI), 768 points

16. Kansas City, Missouri (MCI), 767 points

17. Calgary, Canada (YYC), 765 points

“Large” airports average: 765 points

18-tie. Chicago Midway (MDW), 756 points

18-tie. Washington Dulles (IAD), 756 points

20. Montreal (YUL), 750 points

21-tie. Fort Lauderdale (FLL), 746 points

21-tie. St. Louis (STL), 746 points

23-tie. New Orleans (MSY), 740 points

23-tie. Philadelphia (PHL), 740 points

25. Washington Reagan National (DCA), 733 points

26. Honoulu (HNL), 719 points

27. New York LaGuardia, 662 points

* = Mega airports are those having 33 million or more passengers per year; large airports have 10 to 32.9 million passengers per year; and medium airports have 4.5 to 9.9 million passengers per year, according to J.D. Power.

Related: The 7 Best Starter Credit Cards

“Medium” airports

1. Indianapolis (IND), 833 points

2. Jacksonville, Florida (JAX), 831 points

3. Buffalo (BUF), 829 points

4. Fort Myers, Florida (RSW), 823 points

5. West Palm Beach, Florida (PBI), 814 points

6. San Antonio (SAT), 813 points

7. Pittsburgh (PIT), 808 points

Related: Buffalo airport’s only lounge is now open, and it’s Priority Pass

8. Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky (CVG), 807 points

“Medium” airport average: 803 points

9. Albuquerque, New Mexico (ABQ), 799 points

10. Milwaukee (MKE), 798 points

11. Columbus, Ohio (CMH), 792 points

12. Ottawa, Canada (YOW), 780 points

13. Edmonton, Canada (YEG), 779 points

14. Hartford, Connecticut (BDL), 776 points

15. Cleveland (CLE), 755 points

16. Kahului, Hawaii (OGG), 754 points

* = Mega airports are those having 33 million or more passengers per year; large airports have 10 to 32.9 million passengers per year; and medium airports have 4.5 to 9.9 million passengers per year, according to J.D. Power.

Featured image courtesy of Wayne County Airport Authority.

Related: Southwest’s ‘Second Wave’ of Hawaii Expansion Is Now Underway

Related: Sign up for our daily newsletter to get the latest news and frequent-flyer info delivered right to your in-box

 

 

26 Sep 14:08

Tantalisingly spicy Thai food sears tongues in Sheraton PJ

by Noel Wong @ FMT Lifestyle
Jim Paull

Yeah right

Guest chef Somkid Ketkaew has 25 years of service in the culinary industry.

PETALING JAYA: If there is any neighbour of Malaysia’s that can claim to hold a candle to this country’s varied cuisine, it is probably our immediate neighbour in the north.

Renowned throughout the world for its spicy food, Thai cuisine is a treat for many Malaysians as can be evidence by the abundance of Thai restaurants throughout the Klang Valley and other urban areas.

Hence, Thai food enthusiasts will definitely be excited throughout these two weeks as there will be a showcase of Thai food at the Feast Restaurant of the Sheraton Petaling Jaya.

A variety of delicious Thai desserts are available in Feast’s buffet spread.

In a move meant to diversify their already lavish spread, the restaurant has brought in guest chef Somkid Ketkaew from the Bangkok Marriot Hotel.

Ketkaew has some 25 years of experience working in the Thai restaurant industry, sharpening his skills in his mother’s food stall in their home province of Trat in east Thailand.

A large dinner crowd enjoying themselves in the Feast Restaurant, Sheraton PJ.

Among his highlight and specialty dishes are Spicy Green Papaya Salad with Grilled Chicken, Fresh Spring Chicken with Sweet Chilli Sauce, Green Curry Chicken, Crab Curry, Massaman Curry Beef and Mango Sticky Rice.

When asked by FMT to recommend three of his favourite dishes, Ketkaew named Pla Goong, a spicy prawn salad with lemongrass, Tom Yum Goong, a spicy lemongrass soup with prawns and Pad-Thai Noodles, stir-fried rice noodles with prawns and tamarind sauce.

The pla goong comes with many fresh prawns served in a delicious lemongrass sauce.

Made with lots of fresh shrimp, fresh herbs and an assortment of vegetables, the Pla Goong has a diverse mix of tastes, ranging from spicy to even minty at times.

It is unsurprising that the veteran chef recommended his Tom Yum Goong, as it is indeed a soup with a distinctively strong and spicy taste.

The soup comes loaded with a lot of goodies within – juicy prawns, crabs, mushroom and onions.

As for the Pad-Thai Noodles, expect to load your plate with multiple helpings of the savoury noodles that will almost certainly leave you wanting more.

Similar to Malaysian fried noodles, Pad-Thai is cooked in tamarind sauce.

This delicious spread is available as part of Feast’s dinner buffet for two weeks, starting from Sept 23 to Oct 6, and will be served from 6.30pm to 9pm.

At only RM118 per adult and RM59 per child, this is one fantastic opportunity not to be missed by Thai food lovers.

For further enquiries, contact 03 7622 8888 or e-mail Sheraton PJ at sheraton.petalingjaya@sheraton.com.

24 Sep 00:27

Slaying System of a Down’s ‘Toxicity’ on a Miniature Drum Kit

by twistedsifter

 

Toxicity is cool, but have you ever heard it played on a miniature drum kit in a bathroom stall? Because that $#%! will blow your mind :D

 

see more videos button Slaying System of a Downs Toxicity on a Miniature Drum Kit

twistedsifter on facebook Slaying System of a Downs Toxicity on a Miniature Drum Kit

21 Sep 08:26

How to Do a Coconut Oil Hair Mask

Jim Paull

And after the hair, spread it over some toast. Yummy.

Coconut oil is a wonderful natural ingredient that can hydrate your hair while simultaneously making it soft and shiny. Some studies also show that it can help repair split ends, encourage new hair growth, and combat dandruff. Make a mask for your hair out of ingredients you probably already have in your cupboards to give your locks some much-appreciated TLC. When you’re done, use a simple egg wash to rinse away the oil and leave your hair looking smooth and healthy.

[Edit]Ingredients

[Edit]Nourishing Coconut Oil Hair Mask

  • of coconut oil
  • of olive oil
  • of honey
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 ripe avocado (optional)
  • 1/2 ripe banana (optional)
  • 4 to 5 drops of essential oils (optional)

Double recipe if you have extremely long or thick hair

[Edit]Removal Mask

  • 1 large egg
  • of warm water

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Making the Mask

  1. Warm up of coconut oil if it’s in a solid form. Coconut oil has a really low melting temperature of , so it doesn’t take much at all to melt it down. Put into a microwave-safe bowl and heat it up for 15 seconds.[1]
    Do a Coconut Oil Hair Mask Step 1.jpg
    • Getting the coconut oil into a liquid state will make it much easier to combine with the other ingredients.
  2. Separate the egg if you want to use just the whites or just the yolks. The yolks will provide extra moisture, and the whites will provide more protein. You can use either part or both parts for your mask![2]
    Do a Coconut Oil Hair Mask Step 2.jpg
  3. Mix together the coconut oil, olive oil, honey, and egg in a small bowl. Use of coconut oil, of olive oil, of honey, and 1 large egg (separated or whole). Whisk everything together until it has all completely combined.[3]
    Do a Coconut Oil Hair Mask Step 3.jpg
    • If your hair is exceptionally long or thick, double the recipe.
  4. Add 1/2 of a ripe avocado to your mask if your hair is really dry. Avocado is full of lots of great, healthy fats. It’ll add a boost of moisturizing power to your mask, plus it’s a great way to use up leftover avocado. Simply spoon out half of an avocado into a bowl and mash it up before combining it with the rest of your ingredients.[4]
    Do a Coconut Oil Hair Mask Step 4.jpg
    • Adding avocado to your diet is also a great way to nourish your hair from the inside out.
  5. Include 1/2 of a ripe banana if your hair tends to be on the frizzy side. Put half of a peeled banana into a small bowl and use a fork to mash it up. Once it has been mashed, go ahead and combine it with the rest of your mask ingredients.[5]
    Do a Coconut Oil Hair Mask Step 5.jpg
    • Banana is a simple moisturizing element that you may already have at home.
  6. Incorporate a few drops of essential oils for an aromatic effect. Rosemary is said to promote hair growth, lavender can help soothe an irritated scalp, cedar wood is good for dandruff, and sandalwood is supposed to help prevent hair loss. 4 to 5 drops of a single essential oil will be enough to infuse your mask with a lovely scent.[6]
    Do a Coconut Oil Hair Mask Step 6.jpg
    • Avoid ingesting essential oils, as some of them could make you ill.
    • Essential oils are highly concentrated, so avoid using more than the recommended amount.

[Edit]Putting the Mask on Your Hair

  1. Dampen your hair first if you have thick or tangled hair. It can be hard to really saturate thick, tangled, or curly hair with the mask. You could mist your hair with a spray bottle or simply run water from the faucet or shower over your hair for 15 to 30 seconds. You can gently brush through it afterward or let the mask itself do the detangling for you.[7]
    Do a Coconut Oil Hair Mask Step 7.jpg
    • If your hair is straight and easy to comb through, there’s no need to get your hair wet first.
  2. Section your hair so you can evenly apply the mask. Gather the top 1/3 of your hair on top of your head with a hair clip. Gather the middle section of hair and secure it with another hair clip. Leave the bottom 1/3 of your hair down—this will be the first layer you apply the mask to.[8]
    Do a Coconut Oil Hair Mask Step 8.jpg
    • If you have really thick hair, you may even want to separate your hair into 4 or 5 layers.
  3. Apply the mask to each section using your fingertips. Dip your fingers into the mask and scoop out a small amount, about or so. Start applying the mask at your roots and work your way down through the middle shafts, all the way to the ends of your hair. Massage the oil into your scalp. Do the bottom section of hair first, then the middle section, and end with the top section of hair.[9]
    Do a Coconut Oil Hair Mask Step 9.jpg
    • This can get a little messy, so put a towel around your shoulders or wear an old T-shirt.
    • If needed, you could even use a comb to help distribute the mask and work out tangles.
  4. Put a shower cap or towel on your hair to keep the mask from dripping. This will also help keep the mask on your hair and off of your shoulders or the furniture. If it helps, clip all your hair on top of your head first, and then wrap the towel around it or put on the shower cap.[10]
    Do a Coconut Oil Hair Mask Step 10.jpg
  5. Let the mask saturate your hair for 15 to 20 minutes. Set a timer and sit back and relax. You could clean up the ingredients from making the mask, or take the opportunity to do some other self-care tasks, like applying a face mask or painting your nails.[11]
    Do a Coconut Oil Hair Mask Step 11.jpg
    • You can leave the mask on for up to an hour, but any more than that and you risk the egg starting to dry out, which would make it a lot harder to rinse away.

[Edit]Rinsing out the Mask

  1. Make a removal mask out of a raw egg and warm water. Coconut oil can be difficult to wash out of hair—it’s thick and slick and usually needs more than a simple shampoo. In a small bowl, whisk together a raw egg and about of warm water. Keep whisking the mixture until the egg and water are completely incorporated.[12]
    Do a Coconut Oil Hair Mask Step 12.jpg
  2. Apply the removal mask to your hair to help rinse away the oil. Unwrap your hair from the towel or remove the shower cap. Because this next part is a little messy, try doing it over a sink or while standing in the shower. Slowly pour the removal mask over your hair and use your hands to work it through your locks as best you can.[13]
    Do a Coconut Oil Hair Mask Step 13.jpg
    • Egg cuts through oil and grease and will help remove the buildup from all those good moisturizing agents you used.
  3. Wrap your hair back up and set a timer for 5 to 10 minutes. Rewrap your hair in a towel or put your shower cap back on. If there is egg wash running down your neck, wipe it away with a damp cloth so that it doesn’t dry on your skin. Let the mask saturate the oil so it’ll be easier to wash off.[14]
    Do a Coconut Oil Hair Mask Step 14.jpg
    • Avoid leaving the egg wash in your hair for more than 15 minutes maximum, as it’ll start to dry after that amount of time.
  4. Rinse out the mask with cool to warm water. You don’t have to wash your hair with shampoo after using a coconut oil hair mask, though you can if you want to. Simply rinsing away the removal mask and coconut oil mask with water is usually enough to clear it away and leave you with shiny, smooth hair.[15]
    Do a Coconut Oil Hair Mask Step 15.jpg
    • Take your time with this part of the process. It may take 5 to 10 minutes to really rinse everything away. Give extra attention to your scalp so that sections of oil aren’t left behind.
  5. Let your hair air dry to avoid drying it out or damaging it further. Pat your hair with an old cotton T-shirt or a microfiber towel to remove excess water. Gently squeeze out your hair in sections instead of rubbing a towel back and forth. Then let it dry naturally before you style it.[16]
    Do a Coconut Oil Hair Mask Step 16.jpg
    • If you do need to blow dry your hair, try using the lowest heat setting instead of the highest.
  6. Use a hair mask once per week to maintain shiny, healthy hair. You can repeat this process regularly to promote your hair’s health. Most of the ingredients are probably already in your home, and you can experiment with adding in different ingredients to see what you like best.[17]
    Do a Coconut Oil Hair Mask Step 17.jpg
    • If you swim in chlorinated water or spend a lot of time in the sun, you could even use this mask every time you wash your hair.
    • If you have thin or oily hair, you most likely won’t need to use this mask as often. Twice or once a month will probably be enough. If your hair feels greasy to the touch after using the mask, decrease how often you’re applying it.

[Edit]Tips

  • If your hair is in dire need of hydration, simply use of melted coconut oil. Spread it over your hair, wrap it up in a towel, and let it saturate your hair overnight.

[Edit]Warnings

  • If your hair starts looking or feeling greasy rather than smooth, decrease how often you’re using this hair mask.
  • Never use more than the recommended amount of essential oils in your hair mask. The oils are very concentrated, and they can cause a reaction on your scalp if too much is used.

[Edit]Things You’ll Need

  • Measuring spoons
  • Mixing bowl(s)
  • Whisk
  • Towel(s)
  • Hairclip
  • Shower cap (optional)

[Edit]References

  1. https://youtu.be/rt3L3SGslaQ?t=91
  2. https://youtu.be/rt3L3SGslaQ?t=149
  3. https://youtu.be/rt3L3SGslaQ?t=51
  4. https://blog.paleohacks.com/coconut-oil-hair-masks/#
  5. https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/oils/coconut-oil-hair-mask.html
  6. https://www.diys.com/coconut-oil-hair-masks/
  7. https://blog.paleohacks.com/coconut-oil-hair-masks/#
  8. https://blog.paleohacks.com/coconut-oil-hair-masks/#
  9. https://youtu.be/rt3L3SGslaQ?t=231
  10. https://youtu.be/rt3L3SGslaQ?t=243
  11. https://blog.paleohacks.com/coconut-oil-hair-masks/#
  12. https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/oils/coconut-oil-hair-mask.html
  13. https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/oils/coconut-oil-hair-mask.html
  14. https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/oils/coconut-oil-hair-mask.html
  15. https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/oils/coconut-oil-hair-mask.html
  16. https://www.allure.com/story/air-drying-hair-mistakes
  17. https://blog.paleohacks.com/coconut-oil-hair-masks/#
18 Sep 13:55

3,950 pigs to be culled as South Korea confirms swine fever outbreak

by Reuters
Jim Paull

Awwww poor guys.

African swine flu have killed pigs from China to North Korea.

SEOUL: South Korea on Tuesday reported its first cases of African swine fever, becoming the latest country hit by the disease that killed pigs from China to North Korea, pushing up pork prices worldwide.

Five pigs found dead at a farm in Paju, a city near the inter-Korean border, were confirmed to have been infected with the virus, an official with Seoul’s agriculture ministry told AFP.

“At this point, it’s too early to confirm if the case stemmed from the North,” the official added.

Seoul’s agriculture minister Kim Hyun-soo said 3,950 pigs from three farms in Paju were to be culled.

The country has raised its animal disease alert to the highest level and a nationwide 48-hour ban on the movement of pigs was issued, he added.

The virus is not harmful to humans but causes haemorrhagic fever in pigs that is almost always fatal.

There is no antidote or vaccine and the only known way to prevent the disease from spreading is a mass cull of affected livestock.

Although this was the first confirmed outbreak of African swine fever in the South, the country has battled a number of animal diseases in the past.

In 2014, outbreaks of avian flu in poultry farms resulted in the culling of more than 500,000 birds.

A 2011 outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease resulted in the culling of nearly 3.5 million cattle, pigs and other animals.

The confirmed cases came around three months after Pyongyang told the World Organisation for Animal Health that dozens of pigs had died from the disease at a farm near the Chinese border, according to the South’s agriculture ministry.

In June, Seoul said the disease was “highly likely” to enter the country from the North and ordered fences to be erected at farms along the border to prevent possible contact between pigs and wild boar.

There are around 6,700 pig farms across South Korea and pig farming accounts for 40% of the total livestock industry.

In May, the UN’s Food and Agricultural Organization said pork prices had risen by up to 50% in China and on the Chicago futures exchange as a result of the outbreak.

Last month, it said almost five million pigs in Asia had died or been culled because of the spread of the disease.

18 Sep 13:54

Selepas harimau Malaya, harimau kumbang muncul di Dungun

by Bernama
Jim Paull

Awwww blacks

Seekor harimau kumbang berkeliaran di sekitar rumah penduduk berdekatan Al Muktafi Billah Shah kira-kira 15km dari Kampung Besul Lama. (Gambar Facebook)

KUALA TERENGGANU: Jika 2 bulan lepas, rakyat Malaysia digemparkan dengan kemunculan 2 ekor harimau spesies Malaya di Kampung Besul Lama dekat Bukit Besi di Dungun, kini harimau kumbang pula dilihat berlegar-legar tidak jauh dari kawasan yang sama.

Harimau kumbang terbabit ditemui berkeliaran di Taman Harmoni dekat Al Muktafi Billah Shah yang terletak kira-kira 15km dari Kampung Besul Lama sejak 2 minggu lepas.

Seorang penduduk, Nur Mazila Mohd Salleh, 37, berkata kejadian terbaru berlaku malam semalam yang mana beliau melihat sendiri seekor harimau kumbang berkeliaran di sekitar rumahnya, di blok H taman perumahan itu.

“Ini kali ketiga saya melihat haiwan itu dalam tempoh 2 minggu kebelakangan ini, namun ada jiran mendakwa sudah melihat harimau itu berkeliaran sejak sebulan lepas.

“Kami memang hidup dalam ketakutan dan anak-anak tidak dibenarkan keluar rumah untuk bermain seperti biasa. Kami berharap harimau ini dapat ditangkap secepat mungkin agar kami boleh menjalani kehidupan seperti biasa,” katanya ketika dihubungi Bernama hari ini.

Semalam, Nur Mazila memuat naik sekeping gambar harimau terbabit di Facebook dengan meminta bantuan untuk mendapatkan nombor telefon Jabatan Perlindungan Hidupan Liar dan Taman Negara (Perhilitan) Terengganu. Bagaimanapun, status tersebut dipadam sebaik sahaja aduan dibuat kepada Perhilitan.

Sementara itu, Pengarah Perhilitan Terengganu Abdul Malik Mohd Yusuf berkata pihaknya menerima aduan penduduk dan beberapa kakitangan pergi ke lokasi tersebut untuk memasang perangkap.

Pada masa sama, beliau menasihatkan penduduk agar terus berhati-hati dan segera melaporkan kepada Perhilitan sekiranya terserempak dengan haiwan itu untuk memudahkan tindakan dibuat.

Untuk rekod, pada 19 Julai lalu, seekor harimau daripada spesies Malaya yang dianggarkan seberat 130kg berjaya ditangkap kira-kira pukul 3.30 petang selepas ditembak menggunakan ubat pelali.

Haiwan yang dianggarkan berusia 5 tahun itu ditangkap ketika sedang berehat di kawasan belukar sekitar 500m dari jalan utama Kampung Besul Lama.

Bagaimanapun, harimau berkenaan dilaporkan mati pada 23 Julai lalu ketika berada dalam rawatan dan kuarantin di Pusat Menyelamat Hidupan Liar (NWRC) di Sungkai, Perak.

15 Sep 08:34

Cloud seeding to be carried out over Selangor, Johor tomorrow

by Bernama
Jim Paull

Finally!

The Malaysian Meteorological Department will collaborate with the Royal Malaysian Air Force to carry out clouding seeding over Selangor and Johor tomorrow. (Bernama pic)

GEORGE TOWN: Cloud seeding to reduce the haze over Peninsular Malaysia will be carried out tomorrow, the energy, science, technology, environment and climate change ministry said.

It will focus on Selangor and Johor, which are still recording high Air Pollutant Index (API) readings, deputy minister Isnaraissah Munirah Majilis said.

She said the Malaysian Meteorological Department will collaborate with the Royal Malaysian Air Force to carry out the operation at 11am.

Isnaraissah said cloud seeding conducted in Sarawak on Thursday had successfully lowered the API readings in the state. Before this, Sarawak was the worse state affected by the haze, believed to have originated from open burning in Kalimantan, Indonesia.

“Cloud seeding will only be possible if the atmospheric and cloud conditions are favourable,” she said after she and Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow jointly flagged off the Chemistry Department’s 110 Years Heritage Run at Padang Kota Lama here today.

Isnaraissah said data from the Asean Specialised Meteorological Centre (ASMC) showed that the haze in Peninsular Malaysia was also due to open burning in Sumatra and Kalimantan.

She said environment minister Yeo Bee Yin had offered assistance to Indonesia to put out the fires but there had been no response yet.

“It is important for us to address the source of the haze (because even) if we carried out the cloud seeding in Malaysia, it can only reduce the haze temporarily. The smoke will return,” she said.

13 Sep 13:46

This Bourbon Brown Sugar Salmon Tastes as Delicious as It Looks

by Elizabeth Licata
Jim Paull

Haha, make this with the bourbon pecan pie if we ever have another dinner at parents.

Dinner = solved. READ MORE...
09 Sep 00:10

KFC China perkenal menu ‘unik’ gandingan nuget dengan durian

by FMT Reporters
Jim Paull

nuggets and durian hmmmmm

Sebut sahaja durian, pasti ramai yang membayangkan kelazatan rasanya dengan warna kuning keemasan pastinya membangkit selera setiap penggemarnya.

Manakala hidangan nuget ayam panas pula pastinya membuat ramai kecur liur.

Tetapi bagaimana pula rasa sekiranya nuget ayam dan durian digabungkan?

Untuk pengetahuan anda, KFC telah melancarkan “Durian Chicken Nuggets” di China pada 2 September lalu dengan harga 11.50 yuan atau RM6.76 sahaja untuk empat ketul nuget ayam.

Jika dilihat secara luaran, nuget tersebut kelihatan biasa sahaja tetapi isinya penuh dengan rasa keenakan durian.

Rata-rata warganet dari China mengatakan walaupun pada awalnya mereka agak “skeptikal”, tetapi sangkaan mereka berubah selepas merasai keenakan nuget tersebut yang ternyata sangat sedap.

Malah, ada yang mengatakan rasa durian dan nuget tersebut seimbang serta ada yang mengatakan kombinasi rasa nuget dan durian ini amat “awesome” dan membuka deria rasa mereka.

Berikutan penularan menu baharu KFC di China ini, ia mendapat perhatian rakyat Malaysia.

Terdapat rakyat Malaysia yang ingin KFC Malaysia untuk membawa masuk menu ini ke cawangan KFC di Malaysia.

Siapa tahu KFC akan mempertimbangkan untuk melancarkan menu tersebut ke pasaran Malaysia pula.

Sumber: thevocket.com

Anda ada berita menarik untuk dikongsi? Sila email ke fmtohsem@freemalaysiatoday.com

07 Sep 01:01

How to Choose a Topic for Your Thesis

Choosing a topic for your thesis, whether it be for a master’s, Ph.D., or undergraduate, can feel like a daunting task, but it can also be exciting. Your thesis is your chance to dive deep into a topic that interests you and contribute something new to your field. To pick the right topic for you, start by brainstorming potential topics without worrying if they're good or not. Then, narrow your topics based on feasibility and your personal strengths. Finally, start researching so you can craft a good thesis question.

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Brainstorming Possible Topics

  1. Write down your main interests related to your field of study. Since you’ll likely spend 2 years or more working on your thesis, it’s best to pick something that interests you. Plus, this topic could shape the path you take in the future by directing where you go for your further studies or what type of job you get. To generate topics that interest you:[1]
    Choose a Topic for Your Thesis Step 1.jpg
    • Review all of the classes you've taken and the subjects you've covered.
    • Think about why you got into your field of study.
    • Consider what you like to read about in your free time, especially things related to your field. This might be books, news articles, or blogs.
    • Think of people in your field who you admire or aspire to be like. Then, ask yourself what you like about them.
    • Consider if you'll continue your academic studies after graduation, as well as what you'd want to study.
  2. Go through your past coursework to find papers you enjoyed writing. You may be able to incorporate a paper you wrote as part of your coursework into your thesis to give you a jumping off point. Sort through the papers you’ve written in your last 2 years of study and identify any that stand out to you. Think about how much you enjoyed researching the topic you were writing about, as well as which topics felt easy.[2]
    Choose a Topic for Your Thesis Step 2.jpg
    • Consider any lingering questions you had working on past projects as a starting point for your new thesis.
    • It’s best to stick to your recent work because it will better reflect your current knowledge and abilities.
    • You can use the same topic you used in your prior work, or you can use your old work to point you in the direction of a new topic.
  3. Research current events to see what's happening in your field. Read the news to see what’s happening in the world right now. Then, do a search on an academic database, like EBSCO or J-STOR, about your field of study or your interests and review the top results. Look for topics that are getting a lot of attention or where people are asking questions. These topics might be good for your thesis.[3]
    Choose a Topic for Your Thesis Step 3.jpg
    • For example, let’s say you’re studying politics. You might read about current presidential candidates and reflect on how their platforms have diverted from the historical platforms for their political party.
    • If you’re writing a literature thesis, look at the novels that are being nominated for this year’s literary awards and consider their genre, theme, or style.
    • For a thesis on psychology, you might look for news about PTSD research or read articles about pop psychology that people are sharing on social media.
    • For an aeronautical engineering thesis, you could read up on what SpaceX is currently working on, or look into NASA’s most recent experiments.
    • Check prominent research journals in the field you’re interested in to see what current academic conversations look like.
    • Make a list of keywords that show up during your searches so you can look up published theses using sites like ProQuest. That way, you know what topics have already been covered.
  4. Look for gaps in current research related to your field. Your thesis should add something new to your field of study, which might seem daunting. However, reviewing current research can help. Consider which areas leave a lot of questions unanswered, then add those topics to your list of potential ideas.[4]
    Choose a Topic for Your Thesis Step 4.jpg
    • You don’t need a topic that’s completely absent from research, as this would be difficult to examine.
    • One way to find a unique angle is to combine 2 topics together. Alternatively, you can build on someone else's work.
    • For example, let's say you're studying clinical psychology and want to write about PTSD. You might find that not much research has been done into how people with PTSD cope with workplace conflicts.
    • Similarly, let's say you're studying politics and want to look at how political party platforms evolve. You might find that there's a gap in research when it comes to evaluating how voters react to platform changes.
  5. Ask your professors which topic they think is right for you. Your instructors have a lot of insight into your field of study, as well as prior and current research. Additionally, they likely know a lot about you. They can help you understand the best paths of study for you, so find out what they think. Tell them about your goals, then ask for advice.[5]
    Choose a Topic for Your Thesis Step 5.jpg
    • For instance, you might say, “I’m hoping to be a research professor one day, and I want to focus on modern poetry. Which of these thesis topics do you think would make me most attractive to doctoral programs?”
  6. Talk to your classmates about their lingering questions. This might help you recognize areas that need more research. Ask your classmates if they had any questions come to mind during the classes you took together. Additionally, consider asking to see their notes. Look for areas where they seemed to be confused or wrote questions in the margins.[6]
    Choose a Topic for Your Thesis Step 6.jpg
    • Focus on questions that can be researched and don’t have a simple answer. For instance, a question like, “How can we motivate people without offering them extrinsic rewards?” can be researched and doesn’t have a simple answer. Conversely, the question, “When did free verse poems start to become mainstream?” is easy to answer with a simple Internet search.
  7. Think about what type of work you plan to do in the future. Your thesis may shape your future path because it can lead to other research opportunities. Plus, you’ll build deeper knowledge and understanding about this topic, making it an asset on your resume. List the goals you have for yourself in the future, then come up with topics that can help you reach those goals.[7]
    Choose a Topic for Your Thesis Step 7.jpg
    • You don’t need to plan out your whole life. However, it’s good to have an idea about where you’re going.
    • Think about the type of work you want to do, the job title you want to attain, or the types of organizations you want to work with.
    • For instance, if you want to be a university professor, you might choose a topic that you plan to continue researching through your doctorate and career as a professor.
    • As another example, let's say you want to be a project manager for an engineering firm. You might choose a topic that encompasses both your knowledge of engineering and your interest in motivating other engineers to produce their best work.
  8. Make a list of 5-10 topics that might be interesting thesis topics. Include the best topics you generated during your brainstorming session. Try to include a range of ideas, as you’ll eliminate most of them as you narrow your focus. However, having multiple ideas will make it easier to find one that offers a lot of opportunity for research.[8]
    Choose a Topic for Your Thesis Step 8.jpg
    • Undergraduate theses may be more broad, while master’s or Ph.D. theses should be more specific.
    • Choose the best topics that came to you while you were brainstorming.
    • You might enjoy doing this activity with a classmate who’s also working on their thesis. You can bounce ideas off of each other.
    • For example, you might write down things like "evolution of political party platforms," "effect of civil war on cultural norms," "themes of literature immediately before and after a social crisis," "effects of robotics on the workforce," "mission to Mars," or "building intrinsic worker motivation."

[Edit]Narrowing Your Focus

  1. Eliminate topics that don’t seem to offer avenues for new research. If a topic has already been well-researched, then it might not be great for your thesis. Think about what you can add to a topic. If you don’t see a lot of room for growth, go ahead and cross that topic off your list.[9]
    Choose a Topic for Your Thesis Step 9.jpg
    • For instance, you might love William Shakespeare, but finding a new area of research about his work could prove difficult. Similarly, if you're studying psychology, you'll likely want to avoid writing about older ideas that aren't widely supported anymore, like dream analysis.
  2. Choose your thesis supervisor once you have a general idea of what you’ll research. Look for a professor who has expertise in the areas you want to study. Then, talk to them to see if they’d be willing to be your thesis supervisor. Tell them why you chose them specifically, as well as which topics you’re considering pursuing.[10]
    Choose a Topic for Your Thesis Step 10.jpg
    • Say something like, “Hi, Dr. Gomez. I know you’re really knowledgeable about morality politics. I’m planning to write my thesis about a topic related to morality politics, so I hoped you might be my thesis supervisor.”
  3. Discuss your top 1-3 topics with your thesis supervisor. Your thesis supervisor will help you pick your thesis topic based on what they think will be the best fit for both of you. Bring your thesis supervisor a short list of topics you’re considering. Then, explain why each topic interests you and ask for their advice.[11]
    Choose a Topic for Your Thesis Step 11.jpg
    • For example, you might say, "I'd like to write my thesis about modern American haiku structure, autobiographical expression in contemporary 21st-century poetry, or poetry in the Internet age."
    • Your thesis supervisor will likely want you to choose a topic that they know well and are interested in themselves.

[Edit]Crafting Your Thesis Question

  1. Conduct research into your topic. You need to fully understand your topic before you can formulate a thesis question. Use your library, Internet databases, journal articles, books, and other research materials to learn about your topic. As you read, annotate the materials by writing notes and questions in the margins.[12]
    Choose a Topic for Your Thesis Step 12.jpg
    • This will help you figure out what types of questions to ask about your topic.
    • If you can, highlight or mark important passages and summarize sections of text in the margins of the work.
    • Talk to your librarian. They can help you find materials that might be of interest to you, and they can pull books or journals related to your topic.
  2. Write 5-7 potential thesis questions based on your research. At first, don't worry about writing good questions. After you have several that interest you, rewrite each question so that you can argue one side of the issue. Then, phrase your questions using clear, concise wording. Here are some example questions:[13]
    Choose a Topic for Your Thesis Step 13.jpg
    • How did 20th-century warfare alter literary themes?
    • How have expanding cultural norms impacted the criteria for literary awards?
    • What social changes have impacted diplomatic exchanges among world leaders?
    • How does detaching morality from public policy affect the efficacy of legislation?
    • How does culture adapt in the aftermath of a civil war?
    • How can robotics enhance early childhood education?
    • What are the best ways to motivate employees to work harder?
    • What treatment protocols can enhance recovery in PTSD patients?
  3. Identify the question you think you can best research and answer. You want to select a question you can answer well so that your thesis will be successful. To determine the best question to focus your thesis on:[14]
    Choose a Topic for Your Thesis Step 14.jpg
    • Think about the process you'd need to use to research the topic, such as a digital search, social experiments, or lab testing. Then, decide if you'd be able to complete these tasks with the time and resources you have.
    • List the research materials you have available to you, such as computer databases, library materials, or a laboratory.
    • Consider your thesis supervisor’s area of expertise.
    • Think about the courses you’ve taken and the skills you’ve developed.
  4. Select a final research question with the help of your thesis supervisor. Once you’ve identified a thesis question that you’d like to use, talk to your thesis supervisor to get their opinion. They may approve it as-is, but they could also offer advice on how to improve it. Work with them to craft the best thesis question for your project.[15]
    Choose a Topic for Your Thesis Step 15.jpg
    • Listen to your thesis supervisor’s advice. They’ve likely been doing this for a long time, and they know what it’s like to be in your shoes.

[Edit]Tips

  • Try to choose your topic as early as you can. This will help you stay on track to finish your thesis on time.
  • It’s helpful to do additional research throughout the selection process. If you find texts that might be of use to you later, save them to use in your thesis.
  • Since you’ll spend at least 1-2 years on your thesis, it’s best to choose a topic that interests you.

[Edit]References

  1. https://www.millersville.edu/honorscollege/thesis/choosetopic.php
  2. http://research.library.gsu.edu/c.php?g=115594&p=752995
  3. https://hhd.psu.edu/shm/undergraduate/honors-study-hospitality-management/first-steps-choosing-topic-and-thesis-supervisor
  4. https://www.millersville.edu/honorscollege/thesis/choosetopic.php
  5. https://hhd.psu.edu/shm/undergraduate/honors-study-hospitality-management/first-steps-choosing-topic-and-thesis-supervisor
  6. https://hhd.psu.edu/shm/undergraduate/honors-study-hospitality-management/first-steps-choosing-topic-and-thesis-supervisor
  7. http://research.library.gsu.edu/c.php?g=115594&p=752995
  8. https://hhd.psu.edu/shm/undergraduate/honors-study-hospitality-management/first-steps-choosing-topic-and-thesis-supervisor
  9. http://research.library.gsu.edu/c.php?g=115594&p=752995
  10. https://hhd.psu.edu/shm/undergraduate/honors-study-hospitality-management/first-steps-choosing-topic-and-thesis-supervisor
  11. https://hhd.psu.edu/shm/undergraduate/honors-study-hospitality-management/first-steps-choosing-topic-and-thesis-supervisor
  12. https://www.millersville.edu/honorscollege/thesis/choosetopic.php
  13. https://writingcenter.gmu.edu/guides/how-to-write-a-research-question
  14. https://www.millersville.edu/honorscollege/thesis/choosetopic.php
  15. https://www.millersville.edu/honorscollege/thesis/choosetopic.php