Chennai Building Collapse

Posted on July 1, 2014 by annetbell

This tragedy happened  last weekend and the pictures brought back memories of seeing construction in India. The bamboo sticks are used for scaffolding, and my  architect assured me that they are very strong.  But to hold up a building of steel and concrete,” I asked ? It looked pretty fragile to me.

We saw lots of construction projects from neighborhood buildings to large projects.  There was one we walked by on the way to Domino’s for  our “almost” American pizza.   I remember  construction workers without hard hats and even shoe-less.   There were women in saris also carrying bricks as well as other construction duties.  The most surprising was a lunch break on a level 3 or 4 stories up and a family of father, mother, and several young children sitting and  eating. There was no railing for protection and it was obvious that the need of a job and payment for essentials for the family, outweighed the need of the children to be in a safe place.

Engineers  and the owner have been arrested at  the video site. I have no doubt that short cuts may have been taken.  The human condition of “The Root of All evil is the love of money” is a universal.    Let’s face it. . . . .life is pretty cheap in India. . .or at lease some life is cheap there.  There are very little if any national safety nets and people are desperate for money just to eat.  One night we went to Domino’s for dinner and  as we passed this site on the corner and the light waned, men were still working in the half-light.

BTW. . . . Chennai is the south  Indian city formally known  Madras.

Do you have any dangerous construction stories ? Did any of you have wonderful  Madras material from India made into  shirts or dresses that were so popular  in the US  in the 60s or 70s? 

Posted in Architecture, India, Travel, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , , | 19 Comments

Summer Music Monday “Dancing In the Streets” by Martha and the Vandellas

Posted on June 30, 2014 by annetbell

This song says summer to many music lovers including me!  It was released in the summer of 1964, fifty years ago, but it has worn well. It was the signature song of  one of the earliest and most exciting vocal groups of the Motown ( Detroit)  Sound .  The Supremes burst on the scene  later.

It is a kick to see the styles. . . .hair and clothes that were at the height of fashion of the day  shown in the grainy video.

An interesting tidbit is that this song is one of only fifty sound recordings preserved by the Library of Congress in the National Registry.  Martha Reeves, the lead singer, was thrilled and said, “It’s a song that makes you want to get up and dance!” Maybe they need to dance more now in Washington!

I agree !

Do you agree? Do you have a fave summer song?  What is it?  I am open for suggestions for summer favorites for July and August. . . . 

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Zoo Visit in Syracuse, New York

Posted on June 29, 2014 by annetbell

 

unnamed (28)No Syracuse weather jokes today. . . . it was a perfect day to take our grandchildren as we “sit-the-babies”. We have never actually been to this zoo, but the kids were very familiar with it.   There seemed to be quite a few indoor exhibits and we imagined that is for the many days of rain and or snow and  the zoo can remain open to visitors. The exhibits were clean and looked appropriate for the habitats of the animals as much as we know, anyway.

The zoo opened in 1914 and has quite a history.  One aspect that interested me is the very successful breeding this zoo has had. Here is  a partial list of successful breeding and live births in the zoo. It seems to me that his is a good indication that the animals are happy and well cared for. I know that zoos are controversial and I see positive points on both sides.

Penguin chicks

baby elephant

white crested laughing thrush

baby sloth

femate patas monkey

tiger triplets

Amazon River yellow spotted turtles

2 febbec fix kits

snow leopard cubs

The kiddos were interested in hearing about our ride on an elephant in India  as we looked at the huge creatures.  They also like the fact that we had paid for a pat on the head by an elephant.

https://talesalongtheway.com/2013/06/04/pondicherry-blessing/

https://talesalongtheway.com/2014/03/03/jaipur-the-pink-city-of-india/

Their favorite, along with lots of other kids, was wooden black and white cows complete with tits to milk, except the milk was actually water!  We  did not miss the irony that Violet is  allergic to milk produces.

unnamed (29)

 

And conveniently near the exit was another photo-op with a very small elephant for children to sit on  for a picture.

unnamed (30)

A lovely, if short visit to the zoo. . . . .

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We shall return!

Do you like zoos?  Explain, please.  Do you have a favorite zoo?  I love the Bronx Zoo because I took my children there and have many happy memories.  I love, love, love the San Diego Zoo which  has earned the title The World’s Best Zoo. They have awesome rides, animals not seen at other zoos and exquisite unusual flowers and perfect grounds.  

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Fight the Risk of Cancer with Indian Spices

Posted on June 28, 2014 by annetbell

6 Spices that reduce the risk of cancer

Friday, June 20, 2014 by: Dr.Sofiya

(NaturalNews) Cancer is a word that seems to strike fear in the hearts of nearly everyone who hears it, regardless of their age, gender or socioeconomic status. There is good reason for this fear. Though different cancers have different survival rates, battling cancer itself can be almost as bad and horrific as actually succumbing to the disease. By using the following six Indian spices in the diet liberally, it is possible to significantly reduce the likelihood of developing cancer.

1. Cumin
Popular as an aid to help digestion along, many people do not realize that cumin is also a powerful antioxidant. The seeds, which are often chewed by the handful by savvy Indians who want to ensure successful digestion after their meals, also contain thymoquinone. This compound helps reduce the spread of the cells that can cause colon cancer.

2. Oregano
Though commonly eaten in a variety of Italian and pasta dishes as well as for flavoring pizza sauce, oregano also has anticancer properties. Due to its antimicrobial properties, one teaspoon of oregano has the potential to stop the growth of malignant cancerous cells such as those that cause prostate cancer.

3. Ginger
Ginger has long been prized for its healing qualities. In addition to helping to reduce cholesterol, ginger is also known to increase metabolism. Now, people who enjoy adding ginger to their diet can do so knowing that they are also killing those cells which cause cancer. While it is easily added to dishes such as salads, fish and vegetables, chewing on fresh parsley can help make the root’s odor more bearable.

4. Saffron
Crocetin, a carotenoid dicarboxylic acid that saffron contains, helps retard cancer progression. In addition, this compound has been shown to be able to reduce the size of cancerous tumors by 50%. Though it is expensive, its benefits can be enjoyed by ingesting only a few of its threads.

5. Cinnamon
Prized as a flavoring in a variety of dishes, including breads, desserts, side dishes and entrees, only half of a teaspoon of cinnamon is needed each day to enjoy its many cancer-reducing benefits. Cinnamon is known to inhibit the formation of new vessels within the body as well as reduce the growth of tumors.

6. Fennel
Anethole is a compound found within fennel that enables the spice to resist the invasive and adhesive qualities of cancer cells. Fennel does this by suppressing those activities that are regulated by enzymes and that encourage cancerous cells to multiply. This spice also contains a plethora of other antioxidants and phytonutrients as well.

Simply by enjoying tasty and well-seasoned foods on a daily basis, people can help reduce their chances of having to fight off a number of different types of cancer. With the right combination of spices, a long and healthy life can be expected.

Sources:

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com

http://www.aicr.org

http://science.naturalnews.com

6 Spices that reduce the risk of cancer</p><br /><br /> <p>Friday, June 20, 2014 by: Dr.Sofiya</p><br /><br /> <p>(NaturalNews) Cancer is a word that seems to strike fear in the hearts of nearly everyone who hears it, regardless of their age, gender or socioeconomic status. There is good reason for this fear. Though different cancers have different survival rates, battling cancer itself can be almost as bad and horrific as actually succumbing to the disease. By using the following six Indian spices in the diet liberally, it is possible to significantly reduce the likelihood of developing cancer.</p><br /><br /> <p>1. Cumin<br /><br /><br /> Popular as an aid to help digestion along, many people do not realize that cumin is also a powerful antioxidant. The seeds, which are often chewed by the handful by savvy Indians who want to ensure successful digestion after their meals, also contain thymoquinone. This compound helps reduce the spread of the cells that can cause colon cancer.</p><br /><br /> <p>2. Oregano<br /><br /><br /> Though commonly eaten in a variety of Italian and pasta dishes as well as for flavoring pizza sauce, oregano also has anticancer properties. Due to its antimicrobial properties, one teaspoon of oregano has the potential to stop the growth of malignant cancerous cells such as those that cause prostate cancer.</p><br /><br /> <p>3. Ginger<br /><br /><br /> Ginger has long been prized for its healing qualities. In addition to helping to reduce cholesterol, ginger is also known to increase metabolism. Now, people who enjoy adding ginger to their diet can do so knowing that they are also killing those cells which cause cancer. While it is easily added to dishes such as salads, fish and vegetables, chewing on fresh parsley can help make the root's odor more bearable.</p><br /><br /> <p>4. Saffron<br /><br /><br /> Crocetin, a carotenoid dicarboxylic acid that saffron contains, helps retard cancer progression. In addition, this compound has been shown to be able to reduce the size of cancerous tumors by 50%. Though it is expensive, its benefits can be enjoyed by ingesting only a few of its threads.</p><br /><br /> <p>5. Cinnamon<br /><br /><br /> Prized as a flavoring in a variety of dishes, including breads, desserts, side dishes and entrees, only half of a teaspoon of cinnamon is needed each day to enjoy its many cancer-reducing benefits. Cinnamon is known to inhibit the formation of new vessels within the body as well as reduce the growth of tumors.</p><br /><br /> <p>6. Fennel<br /><br /><br /> Anethole is a compound found within fennel that enables the spice to resist the invasive and adhesive qualities of cancer cells. Fennel does this by suppressing those activities that are regulated by enzymes and that encourage cancerous cells to multiply. This spice also contains a plethora of other antioxidants and phytonutrients as well.</p><br /><br /> <p>Simply by enjoying tasty and well-seasoned foods on a daily basis, people can help reduce their chances of having to fight off a number of different types of cancer. With the right combination of spices, a long and healthy life can be expected.</p><br /><br /> <p>Sources:</p><br /><br /> <p>http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov</p><br /><br /> <p>http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com</p><br /><br /> <p>http://www.aicr.org</p><br /><br /> <p>http://science.naturalnews.com
More reasons to eat Indian besides that it is so darn tasty! 
Do you have healthy foods or spices you eat?  Do you like Indian food?  Do you have favorite dishes?  I love gobi which is cauliflower and biryani  which is rice and vegetables. 
 
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Gujurat Lights

Posted on June 27, 2014 by annetbell
Solar Street Lights in Gujarat India
This system is designed for outdoor application in un-electrified remote rural areas. This system is an ideal application for campus and village street lighting. The system is provided with battery storage backup sufficient to operate the light for 10-11 hours daily. The system is provided with automatic ON/OFF time switch for dusk to down operation and overcharge / deep discharge prevention cut-off with LED indicators.
Photo: Solar Street Lights in Gujarat India,<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /> This system is designed for outdoor application in un-electrified remote rural areas. This system is an ideal application for campus and village street lighting. The system is provided with battery storage backup sufficient to operate the light for 10-11 hours daily. The system is provided with automatic ON/OFF time switch for dusk to down operation and overcharge / deep discharge prevention cut-off with LED indicators.
This is very exciting but not surprising. Mr. Modi was leading the country from Gujarat with his forward thinking leadership in solar energy. https://talesalongtheway.com/2013/09/23/leadership-matters/   Just like people, India has no shortage of sun!
During our time in Ahmadabad, Gujarat , we remember losing electricity once and only momentarily.  Many places in India have electricity for only  a few hours a day or as we  flickering power came,on and off,  repeatedly.  I sincerely believe that this is a goal for all of India for the new Prime Minister.
Good days ahead for incredible India !
What do you think should be the first priorities for Mr. Modi to tackle in India?  Of course there are many challenges from which to choose! 
Posted in India, Travel, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | 7 Comments

Antelope Canyon

Posted on June 26, 2014 by annetbell

It is hard to believe that this video is of a real place, isn’t it? But I can assure you that it is and located in northern Arizona near the Four Corners. We stayed in Page and drove around for many days to discover treasures on one of our Arizona trips.

It is located on the Navajo Nation where they provide jeep tours with guides at a reasonable price. In our group, there were several German men and being the nosy person I am, I had to know how they knew about this canyon. They had been in Las Vegas and decided to take a day tour. I was amazed as it is a well kept secret in the US! You will see from the video at the end of the post that this is a European tourist site.

Architect was frustrated that due to the narrow space it was impossible for him to get pictures without people! We found out that there are special times during the day where photographers can have individual sessions to film the canyon without other visitors. I have no idea about the price, which I am sure is more, but remember money has very little significance to the Navajos!

We were told about the flash floods which thunder through the canyon during the monsoon season. The guides stress that if they signal, people should immediately evacuate. We were there in the early summer and monsoon starts in August, but we were listening carefully nonetheless!

Here is the story of flash floods at the canyon as told on a local TV station.   The precious water of the desert becomes the enemy.   The canyon was created and changed by these flash floods in the past and continues  even today, as the sand and stone is washed away.

Have you been to Arizona and visited a canyon?  Tell us your memories or adventures. 

 

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Train Travel in India

Posted on June 25, 2014 by annetbell

I have mentioned before how we really enjoyed traveling by train in India. We found this travel to be reliable, reasonable, and comfortable. We traveled for 18 hours from Goa to Mumbai in Second class and saw lots of the country and lots of the people. The train system was one of the good things that the British gave to the Indian people.

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South Indian Trip

Posted on June 24, 2014 by annetbell

South India Here We Come!

Posted originally  on April 5, 2013by 

Image

Early tomorrow morning, our group leaves for our trip to the South of India for temples, temples and more temples. We are leaving the computer here. When we went North, it was a nuisance because we could never could  get on the internet because of challenges with electricity ! We will just  have long tourist days, and I hope to have some tales to share when we return on April 17th.  Some of us just had pasta dinner  on the roof of the hostel,  thanks to Giana’s mom “care package”  and realized we will be going back to the US in just a month.  The time has been wonderful and now seems much too short.  We have fallen in love with India!   One question  to leave with you….Did you know that jungle is a Hindi word?

The itinerary is for those of you who want to follow our journey either before or after.

Nameste….T I I

PROPOSED ITINERARY FOR FIELD TRIP APRIL 6 – APRIL 16, 2013 FOR 13 PEOPLE (SELF, WIFE, 11 RENSSELAER ARCHITECTURE STUDENTS)

APRIL 6 – 13: coach for 19 with A/C

DEPART FOR SOUTH ON SATURDAY, APRIL 6

 

APRIL 6: Depart from Presidency Enclave by coach to airport (early morning flight to Chennai from Ahmadabad) arrive early to Chennai and meet with coach to explore the city

Visit: Dakshina-chitra, Kapeleeshwar Temple, St. Andrew’s Kirk, Fort Museum Beach, Check into hotel mid-afternoon

APRIL 6: Hotel for night of April 6 in Chennai

APRIL 7: depart for Auroville at 6am with stop at Mahabalipuram (Mamallapuram)

APRIL 7 & 8: Hotel for nights of April 7 & 8 in Auroville

Visit: Sri Aurobindo Ashram, Perhaps participate in Earth Building Workshop (8:30am – 4:15pm), Ashram/Commune complex, City of Dawn, featuring Matrimandir Auromodel Housing Community, Integrated Learning Center, Solar Kitchen, Visitor’s Center, Vikas Housing, Community Last School. Possible day trip to Pondicherry on April 8.

APRIL 9: depart for Thanjavur at 6am (stop at Chidambaram (Nataraja Temple) on way to Thanjavur)

APRIL 9: Hotel for night in Thanjavur

Visit: Brihadishvara Temple, Observation Tower, Royal Palace: Saraswati Library

APRIL 10: depart for Madurai – if possible, visit Srirangam on way to Madurai

APRIL 10 & 11: Hotel for nights of April 10 & 11 in Madurai

Visit: Minakshi – Sundareshvara temple complex, possible visit to Thiruparankundram, possible visit to tombs of Madurai sultans

APRIL 12: depart for Kollam

APRIL 12: Hotel for night of April 12 in Kollam

APRIL 13: backwater river tour at  Alleppy, (3 hours)

APRIL 13: night in Alleppy

APRIL 14: 6am coach to Kochin airport for flight to Goa

APRIL 14: coach pick up at Goa airport

APRIL 14 & 15: Hotel for nights of April 14 & 15 in Goa (Panaji)

Visit: Beach, Panaji, Old Town

APRIL 16: Train from Goa to Mumbai (arrive at Mumbai VT station at 9:40pm) Bus transfer to Mumbai Central Rail Station. Overnight train to Ahmadabad  departs at 11:25pm

APRIL 17: Arrive Ahmadabad at 5:50am

This is Incredible South India !

If you were going to India, where would you want to go?  Do you want to visit why or why not?  I have discovered that people either want desperately to go or they don’t!  There seems to be no middle ground on wanting to  visit India! 

Image

 

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Music Monday The Four Seasons and “Oh, What a Night”

Posted on June 23, 2014 by annetbell

This is  the real Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons.

Over the weekend, we saw Jersey Boys staring Frank Valli and the Four Seasons so for this Music Monday, I decided to  combine it all into one post. Clint Eastwood was the director of this film based on  the wildly popular Broadway Show by the same name.  He would sit behind the curtain as the stage show went all over the country. No mater whether it was San Francisco, Phoenix or Atlanta, the audience reaction was the same with audience participation and enthusiastic sing alongs.  Eastwood decided to make the film. ” I chose to make this movie about how these guys lived to make music.”

Of the four actors in the lead parts, three are the actor /musicians from the Broadway Show. Only Tommy Divito ( in the film)  is the only non-original.  They are all musicians which made it possible to film the musical numbers as live performances  within  the filming of the movie.

The Broadway show  is still very popular but the opening weekend of the film was in  a disappointing 4th  place . Maybe there was too much pull away from feel good music and a  wholesome image to action films.

The Four Seasons and Frankie Valli  grew up on the mean streets of Newark, New Jersey  and knew there  were  only three ways out: the Army, the mob, or musical fame. The film is not a singing picture with drama. These were real rough Jersey guys from a rough place, they did jail time, and lived real lives. . . . . making good and poor choices.

Steven Zeitchik at Mclatchy Newspapers – text

The music is great and the story relate able.  We enjoyed it!

Could you tell the difference from the original songs and the film version?   What is your favorite “Four Seasons’ “song?   Have you seen the show or the movie? Are you going to see either? 

Here is the trailer from the film:

 

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Invasion of the Central American Children

Posted on June 22, 2014 by annetbell

Have you heard this tragic story that is happening now in the United States? It is not being shown on many of stations.

It may be a surprise to those of you who don’t watch Bill O’Riley to see that his show does present both sides of very hard issues.

My heart breaks for these children and I remember my 7 years teaching in Arizona, but I also know that we are a country of laws and I reject the anarchy of disregarding and obeying laws. This is a picture taken this week in Mexico of a north bound train.  The title is  “American Dream Here We Come!  This reminds me of pictures of Indian people riding on the tops of trains, but in the 1940s,  Gandhi’s time.

A small rural town in Virginia came together to talk down the administration about sending a huge group of teenage boys to their town to be housed in an empty college campus. The governor of Massachusetts, Duval Patrick, a close friend with the president, was slated to receive some of the children without being consulted or asked.

Sending the children to school sounds like an easy option but it is challenging. Teachers are used to teaching all public school children, but most of the immigrant children no matter their age have never been to school nor have their parents. That means beginning at the beginning. . . .

I remember especially in 2005-2007 driving to school and seeing men standing on the corners waiting to be picked up for day labor. They live in flop houses with many others and send the money back to their families in Mexico.

What about the governments of Mexico, Honduras, Guatemala, and Dominican Republic?  Don’t they have responsibility for their own citizens? I would love to hear your reactions to this story.  Have you heard of this situation in the US?  What do you think should be done?

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