P. C. Wu wishes you
a Merry Christmas and a Fulfilling Year of 2005.
Picture: Centrepoint, along Orchard Road.
December 23, 2004
December 21, 2004
Girl Power
There was once when I chatted with the chief chef of Pasta Cafe and we somehow drifted to how the kitchen is run on a naval vessel. Tell him everything and I might find myself serving pasta to military policemen one day. After a bit of self-censorship, I managed to tell him about this very famous chef I heard of who cooks so well that the Navy sent him for some SHATEC courses. After he completed the courses, COs just pray that he will be posted to their ships. Out at sea, nothing boost the morale more effectively than food. His culinary skills is praised by many personnel and his paycheck is considered one of the fattest among the chefs. However, he does have a problem. He loves to slap at his ship crews' backside when asking them for their comments on his food or other trivial matters.... other body movements also do not suggest that he is as masculine as he should be.
Hearing this, my chief chef immediately remarked that he is not a man and that is his competitive edge. Genuinely speaking, from past experiences since Primary 1, I cannot find reasons to say he is wrong. Consider also the below paragraph which I extracted from a book by my favourite management guru, Tom Peters:
"In 1996, there were 8.4 million women and 6.7 million men in American colleges; by 2007, that disparity will have grown to 9.2 million women versus 6.9 million men. Moreover, more of the women stick around and finish.....
Almost everywhere you look, the numbers tell a compelling tale. (Yes, guys, the numbers. This isn't touchy-feely, wishy-washy stuff you can brush aside with your "just the facts, ma'am" attitude.) For example:
- There are far more girls in student government than boys.
- There are far more girls in honor societies than boys.
- Girls read far more books.
- Girls outperform boys in tests of artistic and musical ability.
- Girls study abroad at a higher rate.
Yikes! But don't despair fellas. We still rule in some areas. Namely: Crime and violence of all varieties. Alcohol abuse. Drug use. Learning disabilities."
"In 1996, there were 8.4 million women and 6.7 million men in American colleges; by 2007, that disparity will have grown to 9.2 million women versus 6.9 million men. Moreover, more of the women stick around and finish.....
Almost everywhere you look, the numbers tell a compelling tale. (Yes, guys, the numbers. This isn't touchy-feely, wishy-washy stuff you can brush aside with your "just the facts, ma'am" attitude.) For example:
- There are far more girls in student government than boys.
- There are far more girls in honor societies than boys.
- Girls read far more books.
- Girls outperform boys in tests of artistic and musical ability.
- Girls study abroad at a higher rate.
Yikes! But don't despair fellas. We still rule in some areas. Namely: Crime and violence of all varieties. Alcohol abuse. Drug use. Learning disabilities."
The strike rate is not reflected in the survey and forecast. It would be more alarming if he says that 12 million women are offered opportunities for decent learning and 9.2 million made it to college. Whereas, 15 million men are offered the same opportunities and only 6.9 million made it to college. The figures are made up but does anyone dare to deny it does not conform to reality?
December 20, 2004
~ ALADDIN ~
The Magical Musical Pantomime
Presented By W!LD RICE
Written by
Selena Tan
Music Director and Additional Music by
Elaine Chan
Directed by
Glen Goei
Starring
Robin Goh, Karen Tan, Emma Yong, Chua Enlai, Jonathan Lim, Adrian Lim, Denise Tan, Chermaine Ang, Juwanda Hassim, Gordon Choy & The W!LD KIDS
Dates
2 Dec 2004 (Thu), 7.30 PM to
9 Jan 2005 (Sun), 7.30 PM
P.C. says,"Performing on Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year's Day too."
Time
7:30pm (Tuesday to Sunday)
2:30pm (Saturday & Sunday)
(No shows on Mondays)
Venue
Jubilee Hall, Raffles Hotel
P.C. says,"T-shirt and jeans are good enough."
Ticket Prices (exclude $2 SISTIC fee)
$35 and $45 – 7.30pm, Tues-Thurs & Sun & 2.30pm, Sat- Sun
$45 and $55 – 7.30pm Fri & Sat
P.C. says,"You don't need to sit so close to stage."
Presented By W!LD RICE
Written by
Selena Tan
Music Director and Additional Music by
Elaine Chan
Directed by
Glen Goei
Starring
Robin Goh, Karen Tan, Emma Yong, Chua Enlai, Jonathan Lim, Adrian Lim, Denise Tan, Chermaine Ang, Juwanda Hassim, Gordon Choy & The W!LD KIDS
Dates
2 Dec 2004 (Thu), 7.30 PM to
9 Jan 2005 (Sun), 7.30 PM
P.C. says,"Performing on Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year's Day too."
Time
7:30pm (Tuesday to Sunday)
2:30pm (Saturday & Sunday)
(No shows on Mondays)
Venue
Jubilee Hall, Raffles Hotel
P.C. says,"T-shirt and jeans are good enough."
Ticket Prices (exclude $2 SISTIC fee)
$35 and $45 – 7.30pm, Tues-Thurs & Sun & 2.30pm, Sat- Sun
$45 and $55 – 7.30pm Fri & Sat
P.C. says,"You don't need to sit so close to stage."
December 17, 2004
Removal of False Wisdom
This is my thanks to dental surgeon, Dr. Sitoh Ling for highlighting me of the decay of one of my wisdom teeth during a periodic check-up and the successful removal of them just now.
At such “ripe old age”, this is the first time I have my tooth extracted by a dentist, or now more proudly known as dental surgeon. Never thought the extraction of the back teeth, which are said to be stronger, is done so smoothly. Within 30 minutes, I am out of the clinic with my false wisdom removed. They have not bothered me much yet, but problems are foreseeable. There is no better time to remove them than now when I am still very much a student.
Dr. Sitoh Ling B.D.S. (Singapore) practices in Yishun Central Branch of the Pinnacle Dental Group, opposite Yishun 81 Coffeeshop at ground floor of multi-storey carpark. For appointment, please call 67572202.
I have heard of good things about this clinic even before my first visit so if you are overdue for a dental check-up, you can head there. The good thing about this clinic is not much people know about their good dental practice and reasonable pricing and that makes arrangement of appointments easier and waiting time shorter.
At such “ripe old age”, this is the first time I have my tooth extracted by a dentist, or now more proudly known as dental surgeon. Never thought the extraction of the back teeth, which are said to be stronger, is done so smoothly. Within 30 minutes, I am out of the clinic with my false wisdom removed. They have not bothered me much yet, but problems are foreseeable. There is no better time to remove them than now when I am still very much a student.
Dr. Sitoh Ling B.D.S. (Singapore) practices in Yishun Central Branch of the Pinnacle Dental Group, opposite Yishun 81 Coffeeshop at ground floor of multi-storey carpark. For appointment, please call 67572202.
I have heard of good things about this clinic even before my first visit so if you are overdue for a dental check-up, you can head there. The good thing about this clinic is not much people know about their good dental practice and reasonable pricing and that makes arrangement of appointments easier and waiting time shorter.
December 16, 2004
Jockeys
Which is P. C. Wu?
Found my old research articles on horses and horse-racing while disposing old items to create space. Those research were done during my secondary school days to write a story based on horse-racing to kill time. The deed is inspired by some of the most colourful races and people I have witnessed or know during my stint at the old Bukit Timah Turf Club. And among the pile of papers, I found some pictures of jockeys The above 2 stand out. It is only now that I realised that I share some common features as the above jockeys.
The one on the left is I. Saifudin - One of the famous jockeys who enjoys consistent form, but is never too sensational. The other one is Singaporean-champion jockey, J. Saimee. He has topped the jockeys' charts a few times in the past 10 years since I know of his existence and has won quite about all featured races on the local racing calendar. Both are still racing.
Found my old research articles on horses and horse-racing while disposing old items to create space. Those research were done during my secondary school days to write a story based on horse-racing to kill time. The deed is inspired by some of the most colourful races and people I have witnessed or know during my stint at the old Bukit Timah Turf Club. And among the pile of papers, I found some pictures of jockeys The above 2 stand out. It is only now that I realised that I share some common features as the above jockeys.
The one on the left is I. Saifudin - One of the famous jockeys who enjoys consistent form, but is never too sensational. The other one is Singaporean-champion jockey, J. Saimee. He has topped the jockeys' charts a few times in the past 10 years since I know of his existence and has won quite about all featured races on the local racing calendar. Both are still racing.
“To pilot a racehorse is to ride a half-ton catapult. It is without question one of the most formidable feats in sport. The extraordinary athleticism of a jockey is unparalleled: A study of the elements of physicians found that of all major sports competitors, jockeys may be, pound for pound, the best overall athletes.”
- Adapted from 'Seabiscuit', Laura Hillenbrand.
December 15, 2004
December 14, 2004
December 13, 2004
December 11, 2004
Revisiting my NYJC
I have an intention of revisiting my JC days after my examinations and compile my struggles, success, failures, laughters, cries and all sort of experiences that have make of me today into a book. At a young age of 16, that is by far my toughest and interesting moments which are unknown to many. Those days have taught me valuable lessons and up to today, references are made to those experiences for many decisions I make. They changed my attitude.
If the intention is really put to action, I would probably stay at my aunt's house in Serangoon, near NYJC, for 3 or 4 days to put everything on paper. Publish them myself and give to only my handful of best friends. It is not a show of my achievements.... I failed more than I succeed. Neither is it an exhibit of my threshold to rejects and failures. Writing it out is for historic purpose and a way to force myself to reflect and then look forward again. Giving it to best friends is basically to share my moments with them.... it can be just that simple, especially when again, they are my loved ones.... children.... grandchildren.... great-grandchildren....
That's What Friends Are For by Dionne Warwick
And I never thought I'd feel this way
And as far as I'm concerned
I'm glad I got the chance to say that I do believe I love you
And if I should ever go away
Well then close your eyes and try
To feel the way we do today and then if you can remember
Keep smilin' keep shinin'
Knowing you can always count on me for sure
That's what friends are for
For good times and bad times
I'll be on your side forever more
That's what friends are for
If the intention is really put to action, I would probably stay at my aunt's house in Serangoon, near NYJC, for 3 or 4 days to put everything on paper. Publish them myself and give to only my handful of best friends. It is not a show of my achievements.... I failed more than I succeed. Neither is it an exhibit of my threshold to rejects and failures. Writing it out is for historic purpose and a way to force myself to reflect and then look forward again. Giving it to best friends is basically to share my moments with them.... it can be just that simple, especially when again, they are my loved ones.... children.... grandchildren.... great-grandchildren....
That's What Friends Are For by Dionne Warwick
And I never thought I'd feel this way
And as far as I'm concerned
I'm glad I got the chance to say that I do believe I love you
And if I should ever go away
Well then close your eyes and try
To feel the way we do today and then if you can remember
Keep smilin' keep shinin'
Knowing you can always count on me for sure
That's what friends are for
For good times and bad times
I'll be on your side forever more
That's what friends are for
December 05, 2004
Race Commentary
Marathon Finishers, 2892 P. C. and 4063 Edwin 
Reached the start point later than expected due to Edwin forgetting to bring the most important things for this event – Number tag and Championchip (a device used to record timings). By that time, the race was already into its 20th minute and the Esplanade Bridge in front, without a single soul, was ready for the start of the half-marathon at 6.30am. But wearing the white number tag, we are allowed to start running to catch up with fellow marathoners. Being late turned out to be a blessing in disguise. As we made our way to start running, we had to pass by the elite half-marathoners and as we were passing, a few of them nearer to us gave us pads on the back and cheered for us. Never know they can be so friendly. As we were very much the only moving objects after the start point, the race commentator did not fail to mention us and gave us 10 seconds of fame. We were also privileged to run side by side with the elites when they catch up with us and those same people who were shouting “hoo-hoos!” minutes ago appeared serious, focusing and concentrating on their breathing. That is impressive!
During the first 2km, we were running a bit too fast, probably affected by the elites who were coming and the want to catch up with fellow marathoners. I advised to slow down. However, Edwin must have been quite bothered that we will run a very slow second half and wanted to cover more distance faster in the first half. By the 6th km, I have completely lost sight of him. For the rest of the run till the 22nd km, I am running easy or jogging and kept telling myself that I am doing well. Spotted a Caucasian running on a cake costume to support a charity of his choice. Read about him just now on The Sunday Times that he has extraordinary running experience…. One of which is running some 1,400km in 25 days, covering 57 km per day. By the 23rd km, I managed to catch up with Edwin. Having more reserves, I am able to continue running and left him behind. The next time I see him is at the U-turn at East Coast Park…. About 800m in front of him and then at the finish line. He is not significantly behind when I reached the finish line.
The run around East Coast Park was a struggle. That was between the 23rd km and 31st km. First, my back ached. Due to some back training in the gym, it is not as bad as last year’s. Next, my knees. Then, it is my left ankle (new problem) which was sprained months ago and never fully recover and I believe will never. Then my muscles on my thighs and hamstrings contracted or pulled, giving a sharp pain. I thought it would be better to walk in big steps than to stop to massage and it worked. Spotted a Caucasian encouraging runners and giving funny comments to walkers like “I think I saw you walking!” and “This is easier than NS”.
From the 31st km to the finish line, I walked most of my distance faster than most walkers and slow joggers. Aching on my heels felt. Like last year, I thought to myself that I would not run a marathon again. I did run a bit, but the distance is nothing near 200 metres at a go. I reckoned that for every 1 km covered, only about one-fifth is ran. It was already 11.15am when I reached the 36th km mark and I was thinking of Riccardo and Aijuan who will be waiting at the finish line. Tried to walk faster and run as much as I can to keep them from waiting. The Caucasian spotted at East Coast is now at the Esplanade clapping his hands and telling runners to keep running for the finishing medals about 1 km away.
Shortly afterwards, it is near the finish line. My legs want to stop but I cannot as spectators are looking…. It is the final 100 or so metres anyway. What disappointment when I saw the timer reading “6:09:XX”. Deducting the time lagged due to the later start, I did not improve much, if I improved, compared to last year’s run. More disappointing is that close buddy, Riccardo, is not there to cheer for us at the finishing straight.... must be busy with something. But Aijuan is there, so there is quite enough. Edwin came in about 5 minutes later…. I wondered what our timings would be if he had stuck with me during the earlier part of the run and continue to run together. Would we motivate each other to keep running or give each other excuses to take things easy?
Our participation for this event ended with us collecting our well-deserved finisher’s T-shirts and medals. Would I run the next Singapore Marathon? I cannot tell. But if I am not running, I want to be one of the road-side heros.
Reached the start point later than expected due to Edwin forgetting to bring the most important things for this event – Number tag and Championchip (a device used to record timings). By that time, the race was already into its 20th minute and the Esplanade Bridge in front, without a single soul, was ready for the start of the half-marathon at 6.30am. But wearing the white number tag, we are allowed to start running to catch up with fellow marathoners. Being late turned out to be a blessing in disguise. As we made our way to start running, we had to pass by the elite half-marathoners and as we were passing, a few of them nearer to us gave us pads on the back and cheered for us. Never know they can be so friendly. As we were very much the only moving objects after the start point, the race commentator did not fail to mention us and gave us 10 seconds of fame. We were also privileged to run side by side with the elites when they catch up with us and those same people who were shouting “hoo-hoos!” minutes ago appeared serious, focusing and concentrating on their breathing. That is impressive!
During the first 2km, we were running a bit too fast, probably affected by the elites who were coming and the want to catch up with fellow marathoners. I advised to slow down. However, Edwin must have been quite bothered that we will run a very slow second half and wanted to cover more distance faster in the first half. By the 6th km, I have completely lost sight of him. For the rest of the run till the 22nd km, I am running easy or jogging and kept telling myself that I am doing well. Spotted a Caucasian running on a cake costume to support a charity of his choice. Read about him just now on The Sunday Times that he has extraordinary running experience…. One of which is running some 1,400km in 25 days, covering 57 km per day. By the 23rd km, I managed to catch up with Edwin. Having more reserves, I am able to continue running and left him behind. The next time I see him is at the U-turn at East Coast Park…. About 800m in front of him and then at the finish line. He is not significantly behind when I reached the finish line.
The run around East Coast Park was a struggle. That was between the 23rd km and 31st km. First, my back ached. Due to some back training in the gym, it is not as bad as last year’s. Next, my knees. Then, it is my left ankle (new problem) which was sprained months ago and never fully recover and I believe will never. Then my muscles on my thighs and hamstrings contracted or pulled, giving a sharp pain. I thought it would be better to walk in big steps than to stop to massage and it worked. Spotted a Caucasian encouraging runners and giving funny comments to walkers like “I think I saw you walking!” and “This is easier than NS”.
From the 31st km to the finish line, I walked most of my distance faster than most walkers and slow joggers. Aching on my heels felt. Like last year, I thought to myself that I would not run a marathon again. I did run a bit, but the distance is nothing near 200 metres at a go. I reckoned that for every 1 km covered, only about one-fifth is ran. It was already 11.15am when I reached the 36th km mark and I was thinking of Riccardo and Aijuan who will be waiting at the finish line. Tried to walk faster and run as much as I can to keep them from waiting. The Caucasian spotted at East Coast is now at the Esplanade clapping his hands and telling runners to keep running for the finishing medals about 1 km away.
Shortly afterwards, it is near the finish line. My legs want to stop but I cannot as spectators are looking…. It is the final 100 or so metres anyway. What disappointment when I saw the timer reading “6:09:XX”. Deducting the time lagged due to the later start, I did not improve much, if I improved, compared to last year’s run. More disappointing is that close buddy, Riccardo, is not there to cheer for us at the finishing straight.... must be busy with something. But Aijuan is there, so there is quite enough. Edwin came in about 5 minutes later…. I wondered what our timings would be if he had stuck with me during the earlier part of the run and continue to run together. Would we motivate each other to keep running or give each other excuses to take things easy?
Our participation for this event ended with us collecting our well-deserved finisher’s T-shirts and medals. Would I run the next Singapore Marathon? I cannot tell. But if I am not running, I want to be one of the road-side heros.
December 03, 2004
Racing Colours for SCSM 2004
Here's my main apparels for the Singapore Marathon 2004: FBT running singlet(pictured above), FBT black running shorts and Asics Cumulus. Finally, my latest FBTs which are not used in the Army Half Marathon will make its appearance in the biggest running event in Singapore.
The shorts was bought about 2 years ago from Sembawang Shopping Centre at $10.00. The singlet was from Carrefour about 4 months ago costing only $7.90. More money is put into my running shoes and socks for obvious reasons. Asics Cumulus has been one of my best investments and I think she could run 1 more year of events before her decommission.
Browsed the Runspiration Guide for SCSM 2004 and learnt of some offerings for race spectators. Something new this year is the free transport services for spectators to scenic and vital points of the race to cheer for your friends or the elite runners. Buses will leave and arrive in batches. Depending on the pace of your friend (or friends, not necessarily me), you can choose to take the batch that will bring you to the point of the race, just-in-time to see your friends run pass. For example, a photographer who wants to take photos of the elite runners can take the first batch of buses and continue with that batch till he is back at the finishing straight. In this way, he will be able to take photos of the elite runners at their different phases of conquest. It is difficult to explain this free service clearer, do visit www.singaporemarathon.com
I will be back this Sunday evening (you can log on after 8pm) to tell you my interesting discoveries and sightings, what is going through my mind and body throughout the race and, of course, my timing. Will continue my carbo-loading for now. Meanwhile, you enjoy your weekend!
December 01, 2004
First Singapore Idol
The most recognizable person in town now.... at least for one week, the most printed face on local press…. And the most talked about on radio. Who else could it be, except Taufik Batisah, the first Singapore Idol. We have witnessed some unpolished performance by other contestants during the Spectaculars which require them to sing only 1 song. Taufik has delivered his goods, not 1, but 3 songs, to the right person, right place, right time. His performance tonight is, without a doubt, flawless.
I am always quick to leash out merciless comments about a poor performance to my siblings and normally, they are proved valid by the experts in the field – The 4 judges. This evening, I did not mind keeping quiet as if I am immune to sounds and melodies. Being an open “Sly” supporter, did not want to appear inconsistent by complimenting Taufik at that moment…. But I cannot help shaking my head each time Sylvester performed. There and then, I know Sylvester could not bluff through with his smiles anymore and he knew it. On-off Idols viewers, there will be many and they probably would not even know how these 2 young men ended up in Singapore Indoor Stadium. All things being equal, they are going to vote for sensation…. That is, Taufik.
I am always quick to leash out merciless comments about a poor performance to my siblings and normally, they are proved valid by the experts in the field – The 4 judges. This evening, I did not mind keeping quiet as if I am immune to sounds and melodies. Being an open “Sly” supporter, did not want to appear inconsistent by complimenting Taufik at that moment…. But I cannot help shaking my head each time Sylvester performed. There and then, I know Sylvester could not bluff through with his smiles anymore and he knew it. On-off Idols viewers, there will be many and they probably would not even know how these 2 young men ended up in Singapore Indoor Stadium. All things being equal, they are going to vote for sensation…. That is, Taufik.
Will They Disclose the Margin?
To me, Taufik is the most improved contestant and most versatile…. Remember how he rapped a few verses of “Where Is The Love?” by Black-Eyed Pea during the Spectaculars? I am impressed…. Trust me, it is not easy, not that I stutter. But being greener that green grasses around the island, he seems very, very confident that he will be in to the next rounds for whatever reasons and that turns me off.
Sylvester, on the other hand, is unique.... not only the genre of music he sang on the Idols stage, his selection of songs is bold…. Tends to sing difficult songs which, if performed well, will be sensational. This is someone who is not afraid of being different and constantly challenges the norm, or that is what many people think. Definitely an unfound in the music industry and he can well fill the gap. Although he is not a strong vocalist, there is something that makes me want to support him…. Perhaps because he is an underdog.
Lots of unfriendly publicity about this 2 young men recently…. The police reports made against Mrs. Sim…. Olinda’s supporters switching to support Taufik (2 vs 1!!)…. At the end of the day, it is performance over all else and we are presented the worthy winner of the competition - Taufik Batisah.
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