October 2003 Archives

Because of the SARS attack last year, Hong Kong has been on a health kick since. That's a good idea because littering and the health effects that result from it have been implicated in how quickly SARS spread through buildings and the like.

On my many visits over there, I did notice some litter, though nothing of the magnitude of San Francisco, cesspool and refuse dump for California. The HK governmnent has now declared a new policy: If you have been cited previously for littering and you do it again, it's now a HK$1500 (about US$195) fine and manditory community service.

It's a serious matter because when Hygiene officers began writing citations, they were attacked. Then the attackers were arrested and prosecuted. As a result, these officers have become a tad shy in doing their duty.

This new ordinance should put some teeth into the regs they have to enforce. Good luck.

News info from the unlinkable South China Morning Post

My trip is about a month away. It's still happening but some things have popped up that may muck it up.

#1: With Arnold being the Governor-Elect, they're moving quickly to set up house. That means that people are being hired over the next few months. Hopefully.

#2: Governor's Ball? Hope they do it at the end of the year. Gotta buy a tux.

#3: Friend of mine that I'm flying to Singapore to see (what a way to date, twice a year!) is going through some drama right now. Hopefully, we'll work our way thru it.

But here's the scary part. If staff appointments are being made or the Governor's Ball is being held in the latter half of November, I've got to rebook the trip.

Thank goodness this is an award ticket...

more accurately, happy Chinese Communist day!

On 1 October 1949, the Red Army took control of the mainland and declared the founding of the PRC (while the legitimate Nationalist Government retreated to Taiwan). This day is celebrated as "National Day", much like the 4th of July is out here. It's a day off with celebrations in a jingoistic and nationalist manner, just like any other national celebration.

They also had some observances in Hong Kong, met with protesters. How nice!

However, because of the political climate there after 1 July, the Communists are preparing to intervene in next year's elections that could, in theory, break their lock on the LegCo. Different analysis but same conclusion here.

Sounds very omnious. Read the last line about "arranging an initiative scheme" for their people to demonstrate and vote. That means they will pay their members to vote and be loud and stupid. Sounds like union, I mean democrap tactics to me.