LATEST HAPPENINGS TODAY

Tracking Santa Across the Globe

2010-12-25T22:15:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas!

It's that time of the year where we reflect upon our achievements (or not) in the past 12 months and probabaly decide what we'd like to do in the coming year.

But hey, Christmas isn't all about the above nor is it just restricted to gifts exchange. It's also about remembering the less fortunate and other meaningful deeds.

Aside the above, you might have heard that you can actually track Santa's movement across the globe.

YES, it's true! And it all lies in the hands of NORAD of the United States of America military command.

Check this out below:

Service Update on Oakley Dictate 2.0

2010-03-01T06:54:00.000-08:00

Well, well, well...

It seems that since my last posting on the service standard of Oakley's Dictate 2.0 model, follow up actions have been going on in the background :)

As a recap from my last posting, I reported to Oakley USA on the "inferior" product design of the Dictate 2.0 model, which resulted in the frame's rubberised side grip peeling off (yep, I believe you can still check out the photos taken below).

Unfortunately, the reply (which I did not attach in my posting) was disappointing and gave me the impression that Oakley only takes care of it's "own" customers in the US (sorry, but you can't blame me for feeling this way, especially when it comes from such a reputable and established firm.

Then I decided to do the alternative.

Why bother to write all the way to the US when you can lodge one on your homeground?

And that's exactly what I did.

You see, I've reported the "peeling effect" since a couple of months ago when initial signs were first noticed on my Dictate 2.0 spectacles. However, the reply given over the phone was that there were still no spare components available and customers could either make do with the present status of one's spectacles, or "wait out" for the actual components to arrive.

Now after all these when I decided to state a strong stand on what I expected of a "quality and reputable" sports frame, and citing reasons such as "poor design", my local agent finally had the "professionalism" to do what was right: provide a FREE and TOTAL replacement of my Oakley Dictate 2.0 frame.

Yep, no cost at all.

So, the lesson learnt is tat never give up on what you believe should be provided or rectified, especially of a reputable firm and spending a hefty sum on your product.

Cheers!

Oakley Dictate 2.0 Replacement Parts - Warning!

2010-01-10T00:51:00.000-08:00

After posting regular topics of interest on this blog, I soon realised that "Hey! Why not do some product reviews as well since viewers would be keen to learn more as well?"

It maybe positive aspects, but it could also be negative aspects and everyone who has an interest or feedback on these products could also post in their reviews or experience as well. That way, it won't just be one person's view, and this blog would be "everyone's" blog and folks can check regularly online over here for product reviews.

Of course, articles of interest (I know, I know, they tend to be mine pretty often) would still be posted on "Latest Happenings Today". So, fret not!

To begin with this trend, I'm gonna discuss about a pair of Oakley glasses I currently own. In particular, the Oakley Dictate 2.0 (and this is just one of the many Oakley spectacles I currently own).

Why this particular pair of spectacles?

Well, to begin with, I'm not sure if it's designed to "last" only this long, but it seems to me that the parts used in this model appears to be falling below Oakley's often expected high standard of quality material used along with its workmanship. I recall the previous models I own tend to last at least 3 years or so until it shows some form of discoloration (thanks to my occupation as a fire officer, previously). In fact I still use my first pair of Oakley's since purchasing it nearly 7 years ago. Not bad for someone operating in a rough and tough occupation!

Having purchased my latest "Oakley Dictate 2.0" just barely a few months ago (and mind you, I've now switched to a emergency planning and business continuity job in an "office" environment), I soon discovered that the first part to konk off is actually the "side resin grip" (I know this is not the actual name, but I think that's the best description I can provide for now). Check out the "damage" below:

Upon enquiring with the local dealer, I was informed that the parts were not available yet.

Come on! You mean to say that Oakley launched a new product without getting ready any spare components? How could this happen? We can understand if it's for a pair of glasses launched a few year ago, but surely not with a recent model, right folks?

In fact, the sales executive even informed me that a number of clients have also reported similiar product defects even in the early stages of purchase and the advice given to them is to "remove the resin grip totally if it's causing any discomfort". Man... talk about great aftersales advice.

The last time I checked, the parts ain't shipped here yet.

So be warned. You may want to consider twice before purchasing your next pair of Oakley's (particularly Dictate 2.0). Hopefully, the quality of Oakley's is not falling below its reputable standards.

Stream Online Movies!

2009-12-03T08:59:00.000-08:00

Watching movies with your DVD player is now "passe" (or so they say). Why?

Because right now, you can enjoy the latest in DVD technology right on your laptop or PC at unbelievable download speed! What's more, it's not only limited to movies and block busters, but also the latest television hit series.

Get Your LIMITED Seats Right NOW!

Farkle Online

2009-09-06T23:23:00.000-07:00

Ok, before you go on laughing thinking that it's another spin off of the ever popular social media site "Fark.com", think again :)

Literally that's how its pronounced and it's a rather addictive (seriously) social media application game, more often available on Facebook applications.

In summary, here's a brief sypnosis of the game:

"You can only use dice to score once during a turn, until you’ve used up all six dice. After scoring with any die, it is set aside for the next roll.

On each roll, you must score something, or else you “Farkle”. You are NOT required to keep all the dice that score, that is part of the strategy of the game.

- You need to score 1000 points to “Get on the Board.” Until you’ve scored 1000 points, none of your scores count.
- The combination 1-2-3-4-5-6 is a straight and scores “secure” points. These points are yours to keep, even if you Farkle. It is added to your total score immediately after rolling.
- Once anyone passes the 10,000 mark, the opposing player gets one last turn to either surpass the first player (thus winning,) or Farkle."

Yep, it's based on the ever popular Farkle game.

Solar Eclipse 2009

2009-07-21T07:53:00.000-07:00

It's official, this year's solar eclipse will be one of the most spectacular site to witness across the globe. The problem is: will your current location be one of the most ideal place to view this phenomenon?

Since ancient times, depending on the originating land's culture, solar eclipses have often be viewed as impending signs which would often lead to "good" or "bad" outcomes or omens. Those who had the "ability" to predict these occurrences were often viewed as either prophets, wizards, gifted individuals with unknown powers, or in the worst instance, witches. Generally, based on historical and mthical legends, the latter were more often assumed to be the case (as they say, it's easier to believe in sorcery and black magic, as compared to mere scientific explanations).

Needless to say, science prevails these days and astrologists and scientists can easily explain to anyone how such solar eclipses can occur and not surprisingly, even estimating (read again, not guessing or predicting) when the next eclipse will take place, right up to the exact information on which part of the planet the population can have the best view.

So, how late are you going to stay up this time for the solar eclipse?

Free Slurpee Day at 7-Eleven

2009-07-11T09:51:00.000-07:00

7-Eleven stores across America celebrate their birthday on every July 11 by giving away Free Slurpees. The company, which was started in Dallas Texas, is celebrating their 82nd birthday of the convenience stores on Saturday July 11, 2009 as Free Slurpee Day

7-Eleven is a subsidiary of Seven & I Holdings Co. of Japan. During this free Slurpee day 2009, all 7-Eleven customers will be able to enjoy a free 7.11 ounce Slurpee drinks at more than 6,000 stores in the U.S. and Canada. The stores are located in 18 countries with its largest markets in Japan, Canada, Taiwan, Thailand and United States.

This year, the convenience store chain is turning 82 and they are promising that this year it will be the “Biggest Slurpee Giveaway Ever,” with approximately 5 million icy beverages expected to be handed out at participating locations. This year, the company is rolling out some tremendous new energetic flavors like Ironman Amp, energy Surplee and Guitar Hero Full Throttle. It is also expected that flavors of the Slurpee drinks will be different at each location, as the stores themselves go with what is hot in a given sector. Enjoy free Surplee day 2009 today. To see more information for a 7-Eleven Store Locator, interactive games, trivia and more here

Established Men

2009-05-19T23:15:00.000-07:00

Established Men...

Who are they? Do they belong to an elite group of personalities? Or rather, do they belong to an elite club? Digging further, this was what I found...

"A decade ago, Simone Dadoun-Cohen, was a young, ambitious woman looking to catch a break.
Falling into hard times and without a proper support system to lean upon, she turned to exotic dancing to make ends meet. Until one fateful day which would change her life forever.

That was the day she met her “Established Man.” A man who would later become her supporter, her mentor, and most importantly, her benefactor. Some would say their meeting was a fluke, some would call it an accident but Simone insists it was fate.

Ten years later, Simone is a happily married socialite, living the lifestyle of her dreams. Homes across the globe, her own television series, and what matters to her the most, the freedom to do whatever she wants.

She chose to use her freedom to help other Princesses in need. The current economic situation has made it harder than ever for today’s young, aspiring women to achieve their life’s ambitions. So Dadoun-Cohen created EstablishedMen.com – a dating service where beautiful, ambitious women could meet successful, sophisticated men. After all, sometimes it’s not what you know but who you know.

Whether it’s a short term relationship or something much deeper, EstablishedMen.com is the answer for this generation of aspiring Princesses."

In summary, Established Men is the premier online sugar daddy online dating service that connects young beautiful women, with rich and successful men!

Angels & Demons

2009-05-16T23:46:00.000-07:00

If you've been waiting for the sequel to "The Da Vinci Code", then this is a definite show you must not miss! With all other cast members being new to this show, the only other actor you'll find familiar would be Tom Hanks, who revives his role as the eminent Professor Robert Langdon, who has now been engaged by the Vatican Polics to assist in the investigation of the kidnapping of a few potential Cardinals (sorry if I got this fact wrong, as I'm just reviewing this movie and no...I'm not a Catholic myself).

In this movie, a particular "assassin" has been engaged by one of the Vatican staff (no, I'm not gonna say who) to plot a number of assassination attempts by first kidnapping some of the ear marked cardinals, after the death of the current Pope.

Does this assassin succeed in his attempts? Well...let's just say he almost did. But what I'll eveal here is that he successfully kidnapped four of the cardinals and nearly managed to kill them all. Fortunately with the aid of Prof Robert Langdon, together with new screen actress, Ayelet Zurer, and the joint efforts of the Vatican Police and the Swiss Guards (ie, those stationed within the Vatican City), things manage to get under control.

But wait, it seems like a simple plot doesn't it? Well, there's more than what I've mentioned here. And guess what? They even feature a recent technological breakthrough that was carried out at Geneva (make a guess)?

Send in your views if you've watched it!

Susan Boyle's Makover

2009-04-24T11:03:00.000-07:00

The inevitable has happened: “Britain’s Got Talent” sensation Susan Boyle got a makeover. She’s ditched the drab dresses for a shiny black jacket, dyed her tangled gray locks a rich brown, donned a trendy plaid scarf.

Should we be concerned that the woman who rocketed to fame because of the unlikely juxtaposition of average-gal frumpiness and chill-inducing vocal chops has been forced to conform to conventional standards of beauty? Or should we instead applaud Ms. Boyle for her larvae-into-butterfly transformation now that she’s on the world stage? No doubt half the Boyle-ites will be wringing their hands, while the other half sings (mostly off-key) her praises.

This phenomenon is certainly not unique. Are fans bothered that Adam Lambert has largely done away with his severe, across-the-forehead bangs in favor of an Elvis-esque ‘do? Indeed, the makeover is part of the “American Idol” experience: It’s not just the Clay Aikens and the Elliot Yamins who get plucked, dyed and altogether reinvented. All manner of “Idol” hopefuls get the full-blown treatment.

When it comes to Ms. Boyle, then, her makeover is just one more step along a well-worn path in which a nobody attempts to create a lasting, lucrative career while avoiding being cast into the pit of 15-minute famedom. And what’s next? Her own reality show? After all, it turns out that — gasp! — she actually has been kissed!

Here’s a crazy theory: This isn’t a story about an unglamorous woman compelled to slather on some lipstick. Nor is it a story about “society” and “unrealistic standards of beauty.” Maybe it’s just about a 48-year-old woman with a beautiful voice that is finally being heard by millions of people — and how happy she must be about it.

Horry County Fire

2009-04-23T09:55:00.000-07:00

South Carolina Gov. Mark Sanford has declared a state of emergency for the 15,000 acres of land that burned throughout Horry County, destroying 40 homes and damaging 100 more.

The fire moved north into North Myrtle Beach overnight, burning dozens of homes in its wake.

The state Emergency Management Division has deployed support assets to the scene in consultation with the governor's office. The state emergency operations center has been activated, with assets dispatched to fight the fire including a National Guard helicopter and other personnel.

Horry County's Kelly Brosky says the fires raging throughout Horry County have consumed 15,000 acres of land, destroyed 40 homes and damaged 100 others.

"This has already proved to be a devastating event for Horry County, and it isn't over," Sanford said. "This fire is continuing to spread, and it's incredibly important that people near the affected area pay close attention to emergency announcements and news outlets about developments with this disaster. We are continuing to work actively with the state Emergency Management Division and the Forestry Commission in determining what state assets are needed, and this action we've taken will allow our administration to deploy whatever is necessary on this front. In the meantime, I'd ask that every South Carolinian join Jenny, the boys and me in offering thoughts and prayers to those affected, and for every South Carolinian to think about ways in which they can help."

The South Carolina National Guard responded to the Horry County wildfire in North Myrtle Beach, following a request from the Emergency Management Division to assist Forestry Service personnel.

"Within two hours of notification, our four-man Blackhawk crew was in Myrtle Beach ready to support the Forestry Service," said Maj. Jay McElveen, assistant state Army aviation officer.
Firefighters and emergency crews began evacuating some 2,500 North Myrtle Beach residents after flames spread to the Barefoot Resort area.

"I saw structures that were engulfed [in flames]," North Myrtle Beach Mayor Marilyn Hatley said Thursday morning. "I saw structures that were destroyed."

According to Horry County Schools, all North Myrtle Beach schools closed at 10:30 a.m. Thursday. Those students who were not taken home by parents were transported to schools in Loris.

Students will be transported back to their base school for dismissal and departure at normal school closure.

All North Myrtle Beach schools will be closed on Friday, April 24, for students and staff. Those schools include North Myrtle Beach Primary, North Myrtle Beach Elementary, North Myrtle Beach Intermediate, North Myrtle Beach Middle, and North Myrtle Beach High. Even though all other Horry County schools will be open, no bus transportation will be provided from the North Myrtle Beach attendance area.

Officials with North Myrtle Beach and Horry County Fire Rescue, as well as the South Carolina Forestry Commission, told WMBF News between 30 and 50 homes have been burned in the fires across the county.

No injuries have been reported so far.

Forestry Commission spokesman Scott Hawkins says while conditions are better than they were Wednesday and overnight, it's expected to worsen around noon. The commission has fresh fire crews out now.

As of 11 a.m., there were approximately 250 people registered in the shelter at the Aquatics Center and 26 at the House of Blues with dozens more milling around in the parking lot area.
Horry County Fire Rescue spokesman Todd Cartner told WMBF News that flames over 150 feet tall were being reported, and that no more evacuations were in effect in Horry County, but emergency crews are on standby.

The fire began spreading to the Barefoot area around 2:30 a.m. Roads are closed down between Highway 31 and parts of Highway 9, as well as Highway 22 in all directions. Watertower Road is also closed.

The blaze that originated near Highway 90 and Woodlawn Drive has prompted the South Carolina Emergency Operations Center to be activated at Operational Condition 2, meaning there is a disaster or emergency situation in effect and that the state is at a high preparedness level.

Scott Hawkins with the South Carolina Forestry Commission says the fire is only 25 percent contained and has spread onto the Waterway Hills Golf Course and the first hole at the Grande Dunes Golf Club. Smoke and emergency crews are describing the scene as "extremely dangerous."

Fire crews from all over the Grand Strand and Pee Dee have arrived on scene to help assist rescue teams from the Grand Strand.

Earlier Wednesday, the Woodlawn and Serenity Place subdivisions were evacuated as the fire came too close for comfort for a number of residents. For those displaced, the American Red Cross has set up a temporary shelter for assistance at the Tilly Swamp Baptist Church, located at 4619 Highway 90. That shelter was closed at 7 a.m. Thursday after the Woodlawn subdivision evacuation was lifted.

The fire had died down around 11 p.m. Wednesday, and crews were hoping for a calm night. The evacuation of the Woodlawn subdivision was lifted around 11:15 p.m. Wednesday.

In addition to evacuations, the South Carolina Highway Patrol has closed down a large stretch of Highway 90 from East Cox Ferry Road to Old Reaves Ferry Road, in addition to Highway 31 from Robert Grissom Parkway to Water Tower Road.

According to WMBF StormTeam meteorologists, the active fire season runs from January to April. South Carolina typically sees an average of 5,000 to 6,000 wildfires per year, consuming some 30,000 acres.

The largest fire in state history was in Horry County in 1976, when 30,000 acres burned.

Hallmark Hall of Fame: The Courageous Heart of Irena Sendler

2009-04-19T22:45:00.000-07:00

Based on the true story of Irena Sendler, a 2007 Nobel Peace Prize nominee, Hallmark Hall of Fame’s latest film, The Courageous Heart of Irena Sendler, airs on CBS, Sunday April 19th from 9:00-11:00 pm. Starring Academy Award and Golden Globe winner Anna Paquin (The Piano, True Blood), this movie tells the remarkable story of Irena Sendler, a Catholic Polish health and social worker during World War II who risked her life saving 2,500 Jewish children from the Warsaw Ghetto between 1942 and 1943.

As a health worker, Sendler (Paquin) entered the Ghetto on a regular basis often smuggling food and money. But these small acts were not enough for this woman. Through a network of contacts in the Council for Aid to Jews, called Zegota, she began smuggling children out of the Ghetto and placing them with Polish families and in convents. Her most difficult task was persuading Jewish parents to relinquish their children in order to save their lives. Sometimes she would return to a reluctant parent to find that the whole family had been deported to the work camps.

Sendler’s courageous concern extended to the task of keeping records hoping that she could someday reunite children with their families. The little slips of paper on which she wrote children’s names together with their false names and where she placed them were sealed in jars and buried to avoid discovery.

Paquin gives an inspired performance as Sendler, capturing both her fire and her fear, not for herself but for the children. She tells a little girl, “This war will end and you will survive to be a mother and tell your story. Then, one day, if we are both very clever, I will find you, I promise.” The film also stars Oscar-winner Marcia Gay Harden (Pollack) as Sendler’s mother and Goran Visnjic (ER) as a former university friend of Sendler who is Jewish and helps her smuggle the children.

Irena Sendler continued her work after the war and was able to reunite some of the children with their families. She died on May 12, 2008 at the age of 98.

Susan Boyle: My Heart Will Go On

2009-04-18T11:21:00.000-07:00

There's no need for more introduction about Susan Boyle, the Internet sensation who was first ridiculed, then applauded on Britain's Got Talent. Recently last night, she appeared on Larry King Live, and besides the interview, she got a date and sang "My Heart Will Go On" a capella.

During her interview, it was noted that Susan Boyle had "a few months" of singing lessons over a two-year span. Get this: Only a few months!

During the interview, Britain’s Got Talent judge Piers Morgan joined in the discussion, admitting that he and fellow judges Amanda Holden and Simon Cowell had judged "a book by its cover" as did the audience. Morgan also apologized to the singer.

Larry King then subsequently asked Morgan if he thought, even without winning the contest, Susan Boyle should be able to get a contract right now. Morgan responded that he sees a contract in her future, a #1 album, a world tour, and much more.

Piers Morgan also commented on the "speed and breadth" of her success in going to "global super stardom" in just a few days.

Meanwhile, Susan Boyle remained self-effacing, saying they needed to see how things played out. Her Internet celebrity almost guarantees a sell-out, if you ask me (and many).

You can watch the video of Susan Boyle singing "My Heart Will Go On" Here.

True Mom Confessions!

2009-03-27T11:04:00.000-07:00

Being a mom is never really easy.

They are often the guardians of secrets at home and more importantly, confidants not only to her children, but also to everyone close to her.

But what happens when moms can no longer bear the full set of secrets entrusted upon her? What would she do? How about....what if mom gets influenced and possibly gets involved in one of those secrets made known to her?

Imagine the outcome.

Would it be a tragedy or comedy? Would miracles occur when mom gets involved in one of these secrets? Or would a turn for the worse occur?

For one such typical example on a true mom's confession, find out more RIGHT HERE.