TAXI TO THE DARK SIDE

Alex Gibney’s documentary Taxi to the Dark Side, analyzes the United State’s seemingly unprecedented policy on interrogation and torture of suspects after the 9/11 terror attacks in New York City. In the film, Dilawar, an Afghani taxi driver, a man considered honest and kind by all who knew him, died in a Bagram prison cell, only 5 days after his arrest. Using extreme detail on the case of Dilawar, Gibney exposes the brutality of the case and searches for the reasons to why it had even come to be. Through interviews with military officers, some in fact involved in the torture of Dilawar, Gibney invites his audience to question the mortality of American government and those in charge.

Gibney’s use of uncensored images alone, tells the story of the corruption found at prison camps, such as Guantanamo Bay. The film does an incredible job of placing the audience almost in the position of the soldiers involved in the horrible crimes. Similar to the Enron documentary, Taxi to the Dark Side, brings attention to the idea of corruption, and how power and authority can completely change the outcome of a particular situation. The film of course was much more difficult to watch than that of Enron, the Smartest Men in the Room. However, I felt that its impact was far greater than that of the latter. In my mind, I of course put some blame on those physically involved in Dilawar’s case, however, I can’t help but point a finger of blame to the Bush Administration for allowing and encouraging such practices to commence. American safety is of course an important feature for any US President, yet one can only wonder why the torture of an innocent civilian is necessary to ensure that.

ENRON, THE SMARTEST GUYS IN THE ROOM

In the documentary, Enron: The Smartest People in the Room, through a series of interviews and footage, a story is told of a business that had developed through the practice of complete dishonesty and fraud. In the first few minutes of the film, a woman discloses that the outcomes of Enron, was not a business tragedy, but rather that of human tragedy. Through the manipulation of employee earnings, the destroying of company records, gambling, and the encouraging of gambling, the company lived in the moment, so to speak, rather than having any concern about what their fraudulent activities could result in. A company, once praised as the new model for business, would eventually come to a disastrous end.

The film takes a close concentration on Enron’s president Kenneth Ley, who seemed to ignore all the warning signs of the corrupted company. It appeared, that Ley, along with the executives of Enron, believed that the company would never get caught. Bethany Mclean, one of the writers of the documentary who interviewed Ley when the practices Enron were under suspicion, discussed that the company continued to make terrible business decisions – investing billions of dollars in India, for example – while still paying their executives tremendous sums of money. The documentary seems to bring attention to the danger of power and money, as the company seemed to place its concern on profit instead of healthy and profitable business methods. In the last minutes of the film, we learn of the tremendous impact of Enron’s bankruptcy on employees further down the line. While executives were still able to obtain a substantial profits, the “normal guy” was left with nothing. The story of Enron is most definitely a warning to those companies who have become obsessed with power and ignore the value of honest business practice.

The Success of Stands.3

After almost two years of economic difficulties in America, there are still signs of financial stress in New York City. However, in the lower East Village, many residents have become familiar with Artichoke Pizza, located on 14th street between 1st and 2nd avenue. Known for its pizza and for its late operating hours, there is likely to be a line trailing out of the small shop, even at two in the morning. On January 14th, owners Francis Garcia and Sal Basille opened a dessert stand, Led Zeppole, located only two doors down from their successful pizza shop, where customers continue to wait in long lines, only now divulging in tasty treats.

While Garcia discussed that he had ideas for a dessert themed restaurant, Led Zeppole was a still a bit unexpected. When the space suddenly became available about a year ago, Garcia explained that originally he had no interest specifically in investing money in something new. It was only until other food businesses began to look at the empty space that Garcia says he became serious in expanding, explaining his fear that he would only lose money by allowing in possible competition.

For many businesses in New York, competition falls second to the concern of financial stability. However, in the face of the economic crisis, Garcia’s business has remained unaffected.

“Pizza’s recession proof,” Garcia said. “No matter how bad things are people still have five dollars for a slice and a soda.”

Garcia explained that the business received during the late nights and early mornings have also helped them stay afloat.

“The late night crowd is great. It’s an alternative to a diner.” Garcia says. “ There are only a handful of places that have good food for cheap prices that are open late.”

In a report released by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the food industry remains a keystone of the nations economy, employing an estimated 11.4 million people in 2008, an increase from 2007’s 11.2 million employed. The food industry, while suffering from some amount of economic repercussions, it is still considered a safe haven. In the larger sense, everyone still has to eat. In fact, Malkia McLeod, a representative from the U.S Census Bureau's Public Information Office, says that, since 2007 "limited-service restaurants have experienced an increase in the number of establishments, sales and number of paid employees."

Despite the food industry’s stability during the nation’s economic crisis, it is difficult to disregard the negative impact the economy has had on others. According to a news release published by the Bureau of Labor and Statistics, 27 states reported unemployment rate increases. The report indicated that the 14.9 million unemployed within the US went fundamentally unchanged from January.

In New York, the state’s unemployment rate has increased from 8.8 percent to 8.9 percent. Peter A. Neenan, director of the labor department’s research division, is quoted as saying: “Our newly revised jobs data indicate that the impact of the national recession on New York state’s economy was deeper than first estimated.”

However, there remains optimism amongst many economists, as there is suggestion that the country has overcome the recession and is now dealing with recovery. In an interview with David Gregory, host of the MSNBC show “Meet the Press,” Christina Romer, a chair on President Obama’s Council of Economic Advisors had said:

“You know, there’s the official definition, and that talks about just when do you turn the corner, when do you go from plummeting to, to finally starting to go back up? And I think we have, at least in terms of GDP, reached that point. But I think the president’s always said, and what I firmly believe, you’re not recovered until all those people that want to work are back to work.”

Whatever the case may be, for Garcia and Basille things have never been better; according to Garcia, business is only expected to increase due to the summer season. With there recent opening of Led Zeppole, a new meat sandwich shop This Little Piggy Had Roast Beef, and the development of a second Artichoke Pizza – one that would offer seating and a side slice shop – it is hard to imagine the city of New York is still suffering from an economic crisis.

“We’ve been blessed,” Garcia says. “We really haven’t had any down time. After the first two weeks [Artichoke] business just exploded.”

The Future of Education.2

On March 30^th, nine days after the bill had passed, the Student Aid and Fiscal Responsibility Act was signed into law as part of the Health Care and Reconciliation Act, after a total of 56 votes compared to 43 approved the new legislation. According to Mark Kantrowitz of FinAid.org, over the next ten years the legislation will provide increased Pell Grants to students, which will now be provided by the United States government rather than private lenders.

Over the next ten years, the student loan legislation will add $36 billion dollars to the annual Pell Grant scholarship. Beginning in July of this year, the Pell Grant will be increased to $5,550 dollars per student and by the year 2017, will have gone up to $5,975 dollars; it will also provide 820,000 additional grants by 2020.

Essentially, the government will now be the direct lender of all federal student loans issued starting July 2010. According to the Congressional Budget office, the change will save taxpayers $61 Billion dollars over the course of the next decade and reduce the U.S deficit by a minimum of $10 Billion dollars. John Matulovich, a representative from Access Group, a company which offers private and federal loans, believes that loans through the U.S Department of Education is a good change: “because they will offer certain loan forgiveness programs that other lenders do not as well.” Yet what exactly is to be said regarding the effect on both new students, and students currently enrolled in a higher education institution who already have been issued loans?

According to a statement made by the White House, the students who have assumed loans after July 1^st, 2010, will now be able to “cap their student loan repayments at 10 percent of their discretionary income,” meaning the amount of income available remaining after the basic essentials have been purchased: food, clothing, shelter, and utilities. The statement goes on to say that students who are persistent in their payments will have the remaining balanced forgiven after twenty years. Bill Mack, a financial expert, says that for the students who have acquired loans prior to July 1^st, “will now borrow under the same terms, from Direct Lending.” Furthermore, these students, once graduated, will now be able to consolidate their loans into one single program. According to Kantrowitz, most benefits will benefit future students. “The main benefit, Kantrowitz says, “is [the government] mandating that all colleges be in a direct loan program.” This means that any student previously in the FFCF program in new or past loans, will also obtain lower interest rates. “But beyond that,” Kantrowitz continues, “[that's] pretty much everything.” Bill Mack agrees that the impact the program will have on current students will be minimal.

The legislation also is intended to distribute $2 billion dollars towards a grant program for community colleges that will develop and improve their educational and career training programs. $2.25 billion additional dollars will go towards historically black colleges and universities, including minority-serving institutions. Furthermore, the government plans to pledge $750 million dollars to fund programs intended to increase financial understanding, and $1.5 billion dollars towards federal loans.

A spokeswoman for the Republican Senator Antonia—Ferrier of Utah, Orrin Hatch said that the bill was “completely inappropriate, [as Democrats] used takeover of the student loan bill to pay for the health care.” Many Republicans throughout the country agree with the Senator: their disagreement with government control over health care meant disapproving the included educational refor, whether they supported it or not. A spokesman from Senator Olympia Snowe’s office in Maine, said, “The biggest reason for [Snowe’s] support for or against the student loan bill was more about health care…we opposed the student loan bill because it was put in with the health care bill.”

Democrats, however, with the exception of thirty-four votes against, voted in favor of the bill. Jeanne Shaheen, Senator from New Hampshire voted for the student loan bill in the belief that it will help middle and lower class students who, while deserving of loans, were unable to afford them due to their initial and surrounding costs. Shaheen, formally a teacher, trusts that the bill will provide a guaranteed loan to suffering students as opposed to leaving it simply to chance.

It has been 45 years since the government first began funding for higher education, with the Higher Education Act of 1965. President Johnson, who was in office at the time, stressed the importance that higher education must be available to all U.S citizens. On November 8, 1965, after a period of alterations to the proposed bill, Johnson's motion of financial assistance and improved resources at universities became public law. The irony, however, is that regardless of 45 years of educational and financial reform, there exists many students who still are unable to afford the expenses of a higher education.

Kathryn Solow, a sophomore at the School of Visual Arts in New York City remains concerned about the future of her education. “My main focus right now is on paying for college. I can only hope that whatever changes that are soon to occur will help ease my ongoing concern.”

FedEx Corporation

Founded in 1973, FedEx Corporation is a logistics, transportation, and related information Service Company that is based out of the United States. The company’s goal is to provide the highest quality service to its customers, in a manner appropriate to each market segment served. In 2009 FedEx Corporation Consolidated revenue was reported as $35,497,000,000, indicating a 6% decrease from 2008’s 10-K report. The Consolidated Net Income in 2009 was set at $98,000,000. In 2008 it was listed as $1,125,000,000, a 91% decrease. The company believes that the worsened global economic conditions of 2009, was a major contributor to FedEx Corporation’s lower revenue and earnings. Their results are said to reflect a decrease of demand for most of their offered services, particularly the FedEx Express and FedEx Freight branches.

As a response to weak business conditions, FedEx reduced salaries for their U.S. employees, eliminated a variety of compensation payouts, and reduced labor hours and line-haul expenses. The company, as a result, has exercised strict control over discretionary spending: travel and entertainment and professional fees. Further, FedEx has made adjustments to their routes and equipment types that coincide with current demand levels.

Frederick W. Smith, Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer (Principle Executive Officer), received $8,479,584 in 2009, a 22% decrease from 2008, and a 50% decrease from 2007. Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (Principle Financial Officer), Alan B. Graf Jr. in 2009 received $3,843,005. His total income has decreased 13% since 2008, and 42.6% since 2009.

Sources:
10-K
PROXY STATEMENT

APPLE INC.

Apple Inc., today, regards itself as the leading competitor in the electronic industry with their award-winning computers, OS X operating system and iLife and believes that they spearheading the professional applications, including the digital media revolution with its iPod, iTunes online store, and recently, the iPhone. In their annual 10-K report, their 2009 annual Net Sales was $42,905,000,000, a 14% increase from 2008’s $37,491,000,000 report. 2009’s Net Income indicated a 25.6% increase from $6,119,000,000 to $8,235,000,000. The total revenue as of March 27, 2010 Apple Inc.’s Net Sales is documented as $29,182,000,000 in their Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations Quarterly Report. Apple’s 2009 report was at 20,964,000,000 indicating a 39% increase. Their Net Income as of March 2010 is $6,452,000,000 compared to March 2009’s $3,875,000,000. The rather significant increase was the result of higher sales of iPhones, Mac Computers, iPods, and other music related products. Apple Inc’s Chief Executive Officer, Steven P. Jobs, receives $1,000,000,000 as his annual salary. The document reports Chief Operating Officer, Timothy D. Cook’s yearly income as $14,001,040. Mr. Job’s salary has remained $1,000,000,000 since 2007; Mr. Cook’s has increased 88.6% within the past year.

Sources:

10-K REPORT
10-Q REPORT
PROXY STATEMENT

For Purpose or Power

This past Thursday, better known as Earth Day, my roommate and I went to see Oceans, the new nature documentary from DisneyNature. Last Earth Day the released, the documentary Earth, which depicts various wild habitats and animals across the globe. The film is themed around anthropogenic environmental change and uses the polar bear, the humpback whale, and the African elephant to illustrate the threats to Earth’s wildlife. Both movies in my opinion were lovely – especially since I’ve lately been completely obsessed with nature documentaries.

I first heard about Oceans, interesting enough, through previews featured before the film Earth. What is so strange is that besides that preview that I saw over a year ago, I have heard nothing about Oceans, while I remember there being a significant amount of promotion for the film Earth. For a film that is supposed to send this extremely positive message about making life decisions to reduce individual carbon footprints, Disney took little steps in making the public aware – or at least to my knowledge. In addition to this, the previews before Oceans, featured a documentary called African Cats, the third film produced by DisneyNature, which like the previous films will be released on Earth Day.

As soon as I saw the film, while of course I was tremendously excited, I had a strange feeling that Disney is once again trying to use its power to manipulate. The environment is an incredibly popular topic. For example the Discovery Channel just released an 11-part series called Life, which explored different habitats and animals. But the Discovery Channel has always been doing something along those lines. Only within recent years, the years that people have had concern for the environment, has Disney decided to make movies focusing on the daily threat to these beautiful creatures. What is one supposed to think? I’ll leave that one up to you..

You can watch the teaser trailer for African Cats by clicking here

Fashion's Night Out!

While September seems like forever away, I recently read an article, which made me incredibly excited for the autumn month. Fashion’s Night Out is an organization that was created last year to promote the fashion industry. For one night last September, designers, celebrities, models, and fashion editors arranged special after hour events at stores located throughout New York City, and twelve other cities around the world. In New York alone, over 800 stores participated throughout the five boroughs, creating a fabulous event for shoppers. This coming September, FNO plans to support the industry even further by hosting the largest fashion show in New York history: featuring over 200 top models wearing the season’s most desired clothing. The event is scheduled for September 7^th, and will be held at Lincoln Center, Fashion Week’s new home; tickets will be going on sale this summer. In an article by NYDailyNews.com Anna Wintour, the current editor for Vogue, commented on the event saying, “We felt it is important for people to see what wonderful fashion will be in stores at that moment… this show will focus on the key trends we've identified for Fall so that shoppers will have plenty of inspiration to join the fun during Fashion's Night Out.” Oh Anna!

While it is extremely unlikely that I will be attending the obviously ridiculously priced show, it is exciting to see the city’s reaction to NYC Fashion Week’s big move to Lincoln Center – after 15 years at Bryant Park, located on 5^th avenue between 40^th and 42^nd street, the park will no longer host the event. I myself was lucky enough to attend a show this past March right before the move occurred. I can only hope that my luck will continue this coming September and I will be able to experience another fashion show first hand, for it’s first year at Lincoln Center. Either way, it will be exciting to see the designers fall collection, after all autumn is probably my favorite season.

The Future of Education

On March 30^th, nine days after the bill had passed, the Student Aid and Fiscal Responsibility Act was signed into law as part of the Health Care and Reconciliation Act, after a total of 56 votes compared to 43 approved the new legislation. According to Mark Kantrowitz of FinAid.org, over the next ten years the legislation is said to provide increased Pell Grants to students, which will now be provided by the United States government.

Over the next ten years, the student loan legislation will add $36 Billion dollars to the annual Pell Grant scholarship. Beginning in July of this year, the Pell Grant will be increased to $5,550 dollars and by the year 2017, will have gone up to $5,975 dollars; it will also provide 820,000 additional grants by 2020.

Essentially, the government will now be the direct lender of all federal student loans issued starting July 2010. According to the Congressional Budget office, the change will save taxpayers $61 Billion dollars over the course of the next decade and reduce the U.S deficit by a minimum of $10 Billion dollars. John Matulovich, an Access Group representative, believes that loans through the U.S Department of Education is a good change: “because they will offer certain loan forgiveness programs that other lenders do not as well.” Yet what exactly is to be said regarding the effect on both new students, and students currently enrolled in a higher education institution who already have been issued loans?

According to a statement made by the White House: for the students who have assumed loans after July 1^st, 2010, will now be able to “cap their student loan repayments at 10 percent of their discretionary income,” meaning the amount of income available remaining after the basic essentials have been purchased: food, clothing, shelter, and utilities. The statement goes on to say, that students who are persistent in their payments will have the remaining balanced forgiven after twenty years. Bill Mack, a financial expert, says that for the students who have acquired loans prior to July 1^st, “will now borrow under the same terms, from Direct Lending.” Furthermore, these students, once graduated, will now be able to consolidate their loans into one single program. According to Marc Kantrowitz, most benefits will entertain future students. “The main benefit, Kantrowitz says, “is [the government] mandating that all colleges be in a direct loan program.” This means that any student previously in the FFCF program in new or past loans, will also obtain lower interest rates. “But beyond that,” Kantrowitz continues, “it’s pretty much everything.” Bill Mack agrees that the impact the program will have on students will be minimal.

The legislation also is intended to distribute $2 Billion dollars towards a grant program for community colleges that will develop and improve their educational and career training programs. $2.25 Billion additional dollars will go towards Historically Black Colleges and Universities, including Minority-Serving Institutions. Furthermore, the government plans to pledge $750 Million dollars to fund programs intended on increasing financial understanding, and $1.5 Billion dollars towards federal loans.

Orrin Hatch, a spokeswoman for the Republican Senator Antonia—Ferrier of Utah, said that the bill was “completely inappropriate, [as Democrats] used takeover of the student loan bill to pay for the health care.” Many Republicans throughout the country agree with the Senator, disagreeing with government control over health care, therefore disapproving with the included educational reform. A spokesman from, Senator Olympia Snowe’s office in Maine, said, “The biggest reason for [Snowe’s] support for or against the student loan bill was more about health care…we opposed the student loan bill because it was put in with the health care bill.”

Democrats, however, with the exception of thirty-four votes against, felt very strongly about the bill. Jeanne Shaheen, Senator from New Hampshire voted for the student loan bill in the belief that it will help middle and lower class students who, while deserving of loans, were unable to afford them due to their initial and surrounding costs. Shaheen, formally a teacher, trusts that the bill will provide a guaranteed loan to suffering students as opposed to leaving it simply to chance.

Kathryn Solow, a sophomore at the School of Visual Arts in New York City and once a solid supporter of Obama, is now questioning the recently approved legislation. “While I might have several grievances regarding the health care bill, overall I am very happy that I will be guaranteed health insurance when I am older. Regardless, my main focus right now is on paying for college. I can only hope that whatever changes that are soon to occur will help ease my ongoing concern.”

Coachella 2010

I had been standing for hours. My feet were terribly sore and I could feel my legs shake as I stretched the backs of my knees. My two friends and I waited as MGMT finished their set. None of us really wanted to watch MGMT’s performance but we were determined to get an incredible spot for Jack White’s latest project, The Dead Weather, which was right after. The band closed with Brian Eno, very unexpected as it would seem most were waiting to hear their best known song “Kids,” featured on their 2008 album Oracular Spectacular. I was actually pleasantly surprised, as I’ve often felt their popularity has rested on that one song. As the last chords of Brian Eno played and as the crowds began to dispense, we pushed our way to the front. Our determination proved successful as we made it to the barricade, besides photographers there would be no one in front of us. For about an hour and a half we waited, pressed up against the metal fence, waiting for non other than Mr. Jack White and co. The Dead Weather entered the stage all dressed completely in black, opening with “Forever My Queen.” I had seen The Dead Weather before when I went to the MTV Woodie Awards in the fall of 2009. Needless to say the crowd at Coachella was much more into their dark sounds. Song after song, Allison Mosshart from the Kills, screamed and shouted, it was incredible. It was at this point where it finally occurred to me that I was at Coachella. The sounds from the stage, the smells hitting me from every direction, a cool desert breeze sweeping across the crowd. I never wanted to leave.

I had left for California Thursday night. I arrived at a reasonable hour but out of complete exhaustion I passed out soon after my friend picked me up from the airport. I’ll blame it on the time difference. We had planned to leave at around 8:30 AM so that we could get there just as the gates opened. Turns out we didn’t end up waking up till 8:30 AM and actually didn’t leave till 10:00 AM. I was a little concerned that we would miss some opening bands but after looking at the line up I was relieved that we would make it in time for those I wanted to see. We made a quick stop to the hotel where we were staying and dropped off our bags. Quickly, we headed to the venue, found a parking space, and walked for what seemed like several miles in the desert sun to the opening of Coachella.

DAY ONE

After walking quite a distance and waiting in line for almost an hour, we made it into the venue. At this point it was around 3:30 and we decided to go see Sleigh Bells in the Gobi tent. At Coachella there are a total of two stages: the Coachella Stage, the Outdoor Theater, and then three tents each named for a different desert: the Gobi, Mojave, and the Sahara. Very Clever. While this was my first Coachella experience, Concerts and Music Festivals are nothing new. I have been to Bonnaroo for the past two years, and have an extensive background when it comes to concert experience. After a few songs from Sleigh Bells, we all decided that we had had enough. We moved to the Mojave tent to see Yeasayer, but there was such an obscene amount of people that we could hardly get into the tent. To kill some time we ran back to the Gobi tent and watched some of Hockey’s set. I had heard of the band before but hadn’t heard enough to decide how I felt about them. After watching their performance I decided that they were fun to listen to live, but didn’t know if I would listen to them otherwise. I caught a little bit of Ra Ra Riot before heading over to the Outdoor Theater to watch She & Him, Zooey Deschanel’s band. I think that she is absolutely adorable. I love her vintage style and just think she is so classy. Her set was fun and happy. The rest of the night was filled with Grizzly Bear, La Roux, Little Dragon, Little Dragon, and Vampire Weekend. At around 10:30 PM we headed over to Fever Ray. Fever Ray is the project of Karin Dreijer Andersson. Her and her brother, Olof Dreijer, are memberes of the duo The Knife. I saw Fever Ray around the first few months of school. My roommate introduced me to them after she found out that I loved The Knife. The show I saw was one of the most incredible I have ever seen. I told the two girls I was with that we could not miss Fever Ray. After most of the set I decided to split up with the people I was with because I wanted to catch the rest of Jay-Z’s set. I made my way out of the tightly packed crowd and headed towards the Coachella Stage. I got as close as I possibly could, which still wasn’t that close and watched as Jay Z made the crowd go crazy, with over 30 songs. The stage was decorated with a New York City Skyline, clearly mimicking his hit “Empire State of Mind.” After performing a large number of songs, Beyonce came out and sang Forever Young. I think they are the most adorable couple. It was just a really incredible show to see! Before he finished, I ran to our meeting spot, hoping that the others had done the same. I didn’t want to have to wait a long time to get out of the venue. Unfortunately, I was the only one who thought that it was a good idea. By the time we had gotten everyone together it was already 1 AM. We didn’t end up getting back to the hotel until 4 AM.

DAY TWO

We all got up around 12 PM. Our legs were already incredibly sore and regardless of how much sleep we had gotten, we were all still very exhausted. We took our time getting ready, and headed to a restaurant within our hotel to grab some lunch. After finishing up a huge meal that was guaranteed to get me through at least five hours in the hot sun, we headed back to the venue. We got there just in time to catch a bit of Girls. Our next stop was to the Gobi tent to watch some of Beach House., followed by a quick stop to the outdoor tent to catch a bit of The Temper Trap and Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros. By this time it was almost 6:00 PM. We ran over to the Mojave tent, and while The Gossip were still on their set, we wanted a good spot for the Dirty Projectors so we decided to go early. I had listened to the Gossip before but I had only heard a couple of songs. However, the music and their performance blew me away. Beth Ditto, the lead singer of the group, is a big girl, yet her confidence is unbreakable. She sang her heart out on stage and myself as well as the crowd loved her for it. By the time the Dirty Projectors came on, I was in complete bliss. The sun had gone down and it was finally cool; everything was perfect. The rest of the night was filled with me rushing around. I saw a bit of Hot Chip, the entire set of MGMT, the Dead Weather (of course), Die Antwoord, Devo, and Sia. Almost too much music for one night! By the time we had finally gotten into the car I was unsure of how I would be able to handle another full day of the hot sun and standing. I told myself that the music was worth it.

DAY THREE

Thankfully we woke up much earlier than we did the previous day. We were fed and in the car by 11:30 and on our way to the venue. After being dropped off – two of the four people I was with wanted to go back to the hotel to shower – I walked around Coachella as I had some time to kill and I still hadn’t experienced everything it had to offer. I wandered around the DJ stages, and into some of the tents the sponsors had set up. At around 1 PM I walked over to the Mojave tent to watch the band Soft Pack perform. After about half of their set I ran over to the Gobi stage to see Local Natives. I had only recently started listening to their music so it was really fun to see them perform live. After they had finished I went and got some food – vegan falafel, which was absolutely delicious – and sat down and watched Rusko. Rusko is a DJ so technically I shouldn’t have been sitting but after I finished my lunch I made my way into the crowd. It was very obvious from the crowds dancing that everyone was having a great time. After the set I went over to the Gobi tent. It was about 4 PM and Florence and the Machine were to go on at 4:30. Like most of the artists I really wanted to see, I was able to get right to the front. I like to consider myself a very determined person. Like the first two days, I was running around a lot. After Florence, I watched a bit of Julian Casablanca’s set – he is also the lead singer of The Strokes, so what’s not to love. I also saw some of Jonsi’s set and the end of Spoon’s. At around 7:30 PM I went to the Gobi tent to see Sly Stone. For whatever reason, there was a huge mix up and Sly’s performance was moved back. I didn’t really have time to wait so I left. While I regret not seeing him, he didn’t end up going on till sometime around 11 PM. If I had waited I would have missed two outstanding performances: Thom Yorke and the Gorilaz. Thom Yorke, as I hope most know, is the lead singer of the band Radiohead. If you haven’t heard of Radiohead I don’t know where you have been and if you don’t like them, than I suggest you start listening to better music. Anyway, Thom and his band Atoms for Peace create the most beautiful music. Song after song, was filled with tremendous passion. At this point I had met up with one of my good friends Andrea, who also attends Eugene Lang. While we both are big fans of Yorke by 9:30 we agreed that we would leave the set early to secure a spot at the Gorilaz. The Gorilaz not only have not played in five years but they were the closing band so all 80,000 Coachella attendees would likely be there. Running over to the Coachella Stage, we snuck in through the side, pushing through many people, and thankfully getting a good spot, relatively close to the stage. When the Gorilaz finally came on I was mesmerized. I have a lot of respect for them. While part of my reasoning may be due to the fact that they are my brother’s favorite band, it also has to do with their overall musical brilliance. The band was created in 1999, when the concept of a virtual band had not yet been thought of. Their past performances included incredible graphics and holograms, making their true identities questionable. The music style itself is a mixture between pop, hip-hop, electronic, and alternative-rock. To me this says that they see the importance of all types of music and collaborate in a way, which incorporates many genres. I think they are just very talented musicians. So as imagined their performance was absolutely fabulous. They performed in front of a screen that flashed images of their unique animation. Their set also featured a number of guest performances, only adding to the talent they executed on stage. Andrea and I danced and sang. Our legs felt as if they were about to collapse but it didn’t matter: this was Coachella. By the time they finished I was ready to go back to the hotel. It had been a very long day and I was in desperate need of sleep.

My friends and I ended up driving back that night because we all had flights either in the early morning or early afternoon. By the time we arrived at my friend’s house, near Los Angeles, I collapsed – sleep was very necessary. The next morning, my friend drove me to the airport and I was officially on my way back to New York. Looking back on the weekend it’s difficult to fully grasp the amount of talent I witnessed within three short days. Festivals like Coachella are what I live for. It’s an extreme rush; it’s a beautiful experience. Music has always been essential to who I am as a person, and going to concerts and music festivals is only an extension of that. Coachella was an amazing experience, something I hope to have the privilege to experience again. As far as festivals go, my hope is to attend Lollapalooza this summer in Chicago, but we will see.

all good things must come to an end

Recently Sex and the City 2 has just come out with its newest trailer. For any SATC fan this news is something that draws interest, however, I personally am unfazed and rather upset by its release. Back before Sex and the City 2 and even before Sex and the City: The Movie, there was simply Sex and the City. For six seasons, HBO produced a fabulous show about love, friendship, and of course the city herself. My obsession with SATC began at a young age yet for whatever reason the show spoke to me. Carrie, Samantha, Charlotte, and Miranda were all fabulous characters who lived in the most fabulous city of all. By season three I knew that New York City was the only place I would ever want to live.

When I saw the preview for the first movie, I like most dedicated fans, was thrilled, as I was eager to see a continuation of the Carrie-Big relationship we finally saw become “serious” during the season six finale. Months later, after finally seeing the movie, I would learn that my excitement was trivial as the movie was a complete disaster. I vividly remember walking out of the theater trying to produce a reason to why the movie was so, to put it simply, bad. What I finally concluded was that there was no reason to create an extension to the show. Sex and the City, while ending on a somewhat dramatic note, for its audience did come to a comforting close. After really thinking about it, I felt I really didn’t need to know anything more than what they had already told me. While the idea of a Sex and the City movie was compelling, truthfully I was completely content without it.

Now that they are making a sequel, I can’t help but think that what was once my favorite television show has transformed into a money making franchise. When does it finally end? The essence of Sex and the City is being destroyed by producers convinced there is still money to be earned through its name. What is even more disgusting is that they are right. The terrible truth of it is that there is no doubt in my mind that I will see the movie, especially because it features Aiden, my favorite boyfriend of Carries. So maybe I’m contributing to the eventual destruction of what SATC once was. I wish I had the ability to overcome its hold on me. All I can wish for is that there will not be a Sex and the City 3 to viciously tempt me. I suppose only time will tell.

who is the tallest man on earth?

One of my favorite things about being a student at the New School is I am constantly surrounded by people with a very good taste in music. One of my good friends recently introduced me to a folk artist known as The Tallest Man on Earth. Since I first heard his song “The Gardener” earlier this week, Swede Kristian Matsson aka The Tallest Man on Earth, is all I have been listening to. While his sound is very similar to Bob Dylan, the comparison in my opinion is irrelevant, as he has developed his own particular sound that is extremely captivating.

His 2008 album, Shallow Grave, earned fabulous reviews from publications such as the independent music guide, pitchfork.com, establishing a name for himself as a talented musician and songwriter. Featuring a total of eleven songs, Shallow Grave features soft folky acoustic guitar sounds and profound and poetic lyrics. Combined with Matsson’s raspy voice, his songs, in two words, are beautifully haunting.

My favorite song happens to be the one I was initially introduced to, The Gardener. Matsson’s imagery created by his lyrics is remarkable – I often found myself wishing someone would write a song for me that was just as beautiful. The Gardener, as well as all of the songs featured on Shallow Grave, needs multiple listens before Matsson’s obscure imagery can be broken down – but truthfully I did not mind having the album on repeat for the past week.

Matsson will be releasing his second album, The Wild Hunt, on April 16. And on April 20^th, he will be performing at the Highline Ballroom, located in New York City. This is a show I would very much like to see.

To watch a performance of several songs, including The Gardener, please click here.

Going Gray

I recently read an article in the style section of the New York Times reporting that the most recent trend is, strangely enough, gray hair! As a member of the platinum/gray blonde community I was a little disappointed that people are just realizing the wonders of the look. However, I find a lot of irony in the trend. There are thousands upon thousands of woman, and men for that matter, who spend hundreds of dollars a month to cover up their gray hairs. Compelling to say the least.

The trend, based on the New York Times article originated from the runways by designers such as Chanel and Proenza Schouler. Their unusual direction seemed to have caught on, as throughout the year we have seen it appear in a number of celebrities, including model Kate Moss, who flaunted a gray streak at a fashion party earlier in the year. Faran Krentcil, a digital director at the fashion magazine Nylon, accidentally joined the mainstream, when she screwed up after attempting to dye her hair. Originally aiming for a lavender tint, a few days passed and the dye job had faded into a grayish tone.

For the past two years my hair has been an arrangement of platinum. Going from a whiter tone, blonder tone, and similar to the trend, a steel gray tone. Still, even after two years, I am very happy with my hair. I find that it’s a bold statement and perhaps until now, not something you would see very often. My only complaint about it, other than the damage it causes from the bleach, is the cost. As an unemployed college student I have to make a lot of sacrifices in regards to the amount of cash I spend within the month. I receive a monthly allowance and give myself a certain amount that I am allowed to spend weekly on food (most importantly) and weekend money for going out. However, by the end of the month, I must still cough up $100 dollars, not including tip, to pay for a touch up. Many times I have considered doing this myself, until the thought of orange hair or a baldhead (if done in the wrong way the bleach will literally make your hair fall out), makes the price completely justified.

But what about the gray? To be honest, after looking through photos of woman who have gone the more extreme route to a prominent gray, I have to admit I really like it. I don’t think it’s a trend everyone can handle; gray on a young person is not exactly normal – I don’t even know if I could pull it off, although, one hopes that I could. But it is fabulous. What is even more ironic about the whole situation, for me personally, is that recently I have considered dying my hair black, to not only combat the monthly costs but to experience something new. The fact that the trend has gone more mainstream, especially amongst notable people within the fashion community, makes it that more difficult to convince myself to change it. Maybe I’ll just have to dye it once the trend simmers down, or maybe I should just start a new trend and go for the black.

The Success of Stands.2

After almost two years of recession there are still signs of financial stress within New York City. However, in the lower East Village, many residents have become familiar with Artichoke Pizza, located on 14th street between 1st and 2nd avenue. Known for its pizza and for its late operating hours, there is likely to be a line trailing out of the small shop, even at two in the morning. On January 14th, owners Francis Garcia and Sal Basille opened a dessert stand, Led Zeppole, located only two doors down from their successful pizza shop.

While Garcia discussed that he had prior ideas for a dessert themed restaurant, Led Zeppole was a still a bit unexpected. When the space suddenly became available about a year ago, Garcia explained that originally he had no interest in investing. It was only until other food businesses began to look at the empty space that he became serious in expanding, as he would only lose money by allowing in possible competition.

In the face of the nation’s economic crisis, business has remained unaffected.

“Pizza’s recession proof,” Garcia said. “No matter how bad things are people still have five dollars for a slice and a soda.”

Garcia explained that the business received during the late nights and early mornings have also helped them stay afloat.

“The late night crowd is great. It’s an alternative to a diner.” Garcia says. “ There are only a handful of places that have good food for cheap prices that are open late.”

In a report released by the RNCOS, a leading market research and information analysis company, the restaurant industry remains a keystone of the nations economy, employing an estimated 13 million people, or 9 percent of the total US workforce. The food industry, while suffering from some amount of economic repercussions, it is still considered a “safe haven” in the larger sense, everyone still has to eat.

Despite the food industry’s stability during the nations economic crisis, it is difficult to disregard the negative impact the economy has had on others. According to a news release published by the Bureau of Labor and Statistics, 27 states reported unemployment rate increases. The report indicated that the 14.9 million unemployed within the US went fundamentally unchanged from January.

Even in New York, the state’s unemployment rate has increased from 8.8 percent to 8.9 percent. Peter A. Neenan, director of the department’s research division, is quoted as saying: “Our newly revised jobs data indicate that the impact of the national recession on New York state’s economy was deeper than first estimated.”

However, there remains optimism amongst many economists, as there is suggestion that the country has overcome the recession and is now dealing with recovery. In an interview with David Gregory, host of the MSNBC show “Meet the Press,” Christina Romer, a chair on President Obama’s Council of Economic Advisors had said:

“You know, there’s the official definition, and that talks about just when do you turn the corner, when do you go from plummeting to, to finally starting to go back up? And I think we have, at least in terms of GDP, reached that point. But I think the president’s always said, and what I firmly believe, you’re not recovered until all those people that want to work are back to work.”

Whatever the case may be, for Garcia and Basille things have never been better, especially as business is expected to increase due to the summer season. With there recent opening of Led Zeppole, a new meat sandwich shop This Little Piggy Had Roast Beef, and the development of a second Artichoke Pizza – one that would offer seating and a side slice shop – it is hard to imagine we are still suffering from an economic crisis.

“We’ve been blessed,” Garcia says. “We really haven’t had any down time. After the first two weeks [Artichoke] business just exploded.”

fashion's new hotel

Going to be spending some time in Florida? Well, the rococo Versace Mansion – previously owned by the late fashion designer Gianni Versace – located in South Beach, Miami, is being converted into a 10-room hotel. Miami restaurateur, Barton G. Weiss hopes that The Villa by Barton G still has the charm it once had prior to Versace’s death; Versace was shot and killed in July of 1997 when returning from a morning walk near his home on Ocean Drive. For $2,100 a night you can stay at the luxurious hotel, and even rent out Gianni Versace’s former bedroom.

According to Vogue The Villa features marble floors, mosaics, gardens, a dazzling swimming pool paneled with 24-carat gold, and enormous suites that include a nine-foot-wide bed. Those who cannot afford the steep price, myself included, are still able to visit the extraordinary villa by booking a table in the dining area. While I personally have only been to Miami a few times, it seems that the new hotel will create an atmosphere new and tasteful.

for more pictures of the absolutely breathtaking hotel click here

on to the next one

In a recent article by MTV, Lady Gaga reveals that her next video will be Alejandro, the third single from her Fame Monster LP. Although she won’t reveal anything about the upcoming music video, as an enormous Lady Gaga fan, I can only expect something outrageous and fabulous. WWD Media reported that there are rumors that Steven Klein, well-known fashion photographer, will be directing the video, although no official statement has been made to confirm. Klein has appeared in French and Italian Vogue and W Magazine. He is also worked with numerous celebrities particularly Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt. Her announcement regarding her next video came soon after she discovered she had broken a record for music sales as well as one for video views. Mashable, an online social media guide, reported that she is the first “franchise” to reach one billion views: “Poker Face” (374,606,128), “Just Dance” (272,941,674) and “Bad Romance” (360,020,327). Her newest video “Telephone” featuring Beyoncé had over ten million views in less than 48 hours. Currently Lady Gaga is in Australia on her Monster Ball Tour, which plans to return to North America for Summer 2010. With sold out shows, record breaking albums and music videos, it would appear that there is something very special about Miss Gaga. Whatever she is doing, it seems that she is doing it right.

the birds.2

One of the top 10 fashion trends this spring is feathers. Designers such as Fendi and Jason Wu have dared to incorporate feathers within their spring 2010 collection. The feather trend, unlike other trends we will be seeing throughout this time, is perhaps one of the most difficult to integrate into one’s closet. However, I personally am in love with it.

Maybe it’s because we have seen feathers appear in fashion since the days of Marie Antoinette but for whatever reason, feathers have always had an enchanting appeal to them. Not only are they a trend for this spring but they

were also featured by a number of designers – Chanel and Louis Vuitton – last spring. They are just so beautiful it is difficult to stray away from them for too long. However, I do believe that it is far more difficult to keep up with the feather trend as opposed to metallics or beiges (other noticeable trends for the season), as the only way to wear them correctly is to spend quite a bit of money, which many of us, especially college students, do not have.

In my opinion, if not worn correctly or worn too frequently, you may end up looking like a giant bird. However, it appears that most designers are aware of the possible consequences that come with being adventurous and using feathers. Fendi for example, used feathers for only a few pieces of their collection. Their final piece in particular was a sheer, neutral colored feather gown. It would seem that the designer houses themselves recognize that it is very possible to abuse the amount of feathers you have within a single line.

Personally I have no grievances with the spring feather trend. While it may not be for every person, there is a certain elegance about it that encourages it to stick around. Feathers are simply fabulous and timeless. They remind me of the 18^th century, when fashion was a crucial part of high society; when every detail of a dress was taken into consideration. They remind me of that feeling I had when I was a little girl playing dress up; when I would see my mother leaving for a party, how glamorous she looked. When wearing feathers, to me, I feel glamorous when wearing feathers. I feel bold; I am fearless. It is important, however, to be smart about how you go about wearing them.

Keep in mind it is a bold statement. Wear short dresses and mini-skirts. Complement the skirt with a simple neutral toned shirt. In general, stick with neutral colors (which wont be too difficult as most designers feather outfits are only such). When it comes to feathers less is always more.

This coming spring many trends are being recreated in the most creative and chic ways. The spring not only promises deliciously warm New York City weather but also remarkable style, that along with feathers includes tie dye seen in the collections of Proenza Schouler, Bluemarines, and Rodarte, the fold over neckline appearing in dresses by Alexander Wang or tweed seen in Tory Burch’s spring line. Also this spring we will see tailored vests, loose mini dresses, khaki suits, brightly colored lightweight coats, head-to-toe gray, multi-prints, military coats, polka dots, and multi-strap dresses. Bring on the spring!

Forever, and forever, farewell

After six seasons and a total of one hundred episodes, the television show Nip/Tuck featured its final episode last Wednesday night. While I normally would try to focus on something that has occurred within the fashion world, I feel a need to reflect.

From the beginning I was captivated by the television drama. Although I personally would never let my 14-year old daughter watch it, my parents, however, never stopped me. Everything about Nip/Tuck was fabulous. It was filled with beautiful people, intense drama, and unconventional surgeries (not to mention the music was exceptional). What more could I want in a television show? While I’ll admit that as the show progressed things became less and less believable, I still remained a loyal viewer, watching it every week at its 10 PM slot.

The final season, one of the better written, focused on the relationship between Christian Troy (Julian McMahon) and Sean McNamara (Dylan Walsh) McMahon), plastic surgeons and business partners. Through the years we witnessed their relationship slowly deteriorate because of various dramatic situations –sleeping with each others wives, illegal business decisions, drug addiction, sex addiction, etc, etc. However, neither Christian nor Sean felt that any of their past disagreements were damaging enough to end their medical practice.

In the final episode, Christian (often the character who disrupts the balance), comes to terms with their failing relationship. While both Christian and Sean are intensely devoted to each other, Christian accepts reality by realizing that he was destroying Sean by refusing to let go.

During the last scene, Sean is headed to Arizona. Christian walks him to airport security where they exchange brief goodbyes. Heading in different directions, the camera pans to each of their faces where it is obvious to tell they gripped with emotion. Nip/Tuck first aired in 2003, emerging in a whirlwind of drama and chaos. The final season, however, finished on a powerful yet simplistic note. It is difficult to believe that it is actually over. I had been there through every obstacle, every achievement, and every life changing moment. I had witnessed as the practice, originally in Miami, Florida, moved to Los Angles. I saw fights and I heard apologies. I knew each character as if they were a part of my family. I had grown to love the world of Nip/Tuck.

The episode concludes with Christian sitting at a bar at the airport. He takes a large sip of his drink and looks over at a blonde sitting a few stools away from him. “Let me buy you a drink,” he says. She declines, showing absolutely no interest in his advances. “Can I get you another one,” the bartender asks Christian. Christian declines saying that he has to operate in the morning. The blonde instantly reacts: “You’re a doctor?” There’s a slight pause as Christian smiles, “Plastic Surgeon.”

Crazy Campbell Attacks...again!

As many of us have heard, supermodel Naomi Campbell was recently involved with Manhattan police after she “supposedly” attacked her chauffer this past Tuesday afternoon. According to NBC news, Campbell became enraged with her driver and began to attack him with her cell phone from the backseat of the limo. The driver, Miodrag Mejdina, stopped the car around 58^th street and 2^nd avenue to alert a nearby police officer, at which point Campbell reportedly jumped out of the backseat and fled the scene. Oddly enough, the following day Mejdina retracted his statement claiming that he had overreacted. What is perhaps the most interesting part of the entire story is Campbell’s past involvement with the law. In 2000, Campbell pleaded guilty to an assult on her then assistant, Georgina Galanis. In 2003, Campbell was sued by a former employee who said the model had attacked her while at Campbell’s apartment. The following year, in 2004, Campbell’s maid released a statement saying she too had been a victim of her employers rage. Along with all of these incidents, there are several others that have exposed Campbell’s wild temper. In consequence, it seems a little hard to believe that Mejdina’s accusations do not hold any truth. Whatever the case may be it would appear, based on Campbell’s past, that she does not need any more trouble with the law. Do we think that there may have been an exchange of money? I personally would not doubt it.

PARSONS RESPONDS TO MCQUEEN'S DEATH.2

Parsons College Campus, New York City – On February 11th well known and provocative British designer Alexander McQueen, 40, was found dead in his home in West London, sending instant shockwaves throughout the Parsons Fashion community.

According to officials, McQueen's body was found around 10:30 am hanging from his wardrobe; an apparent suicide. His death came only days before the start of London Fashion Week, making many question the amount of pressure placed on McQueen by the fashion industry.

Born in London in 1969, Lee Alexander McQueen attended Central Saint Martins College of Art and Design where he received his Masters degree in fashion design. He was discovered by international style icon and designer, Isabella Blow, who purchased his entire graduating collection. McQueen would soon be known for his outrageous yet influential designs throughout the fashion world.

For the community at New York City’s Parson’s New School for Design, a school credited for having notable alumni such as Anna Sui, Marc Jacobs and Alexander Wang, his death came as a complete and tragic surprise. Amy Brueck, a student at Parsons, notes that his contributions to the fashion world go far beyond the music videos or red carpet outfits seen on artists like Lady Gaga.“Hearing about anyone's death these days is at first unbelievable. The immediate reaction is to google until you find enough sources to support it,” she explained. She recalls first hearing the news while watching Korean music videos during a class at Parsons. A fellow classmate turned to her revealing that he had just received a text message with the news of his McQueen's death. "After looking it up," she continues "we found it to be true and were all in shock. It was eerie.”

Lashaia Artis, also a fashion student at Parsons, was particularly heartbroken by the sudden news. Like McQueen, Artis approaches her fashion designs with the intention of creating art that has the potential to impact those around. She says that his death brought up personal concern in regards to what the fashion industry can do to a person, despite their fame and fortune. “This was a lesson for me,” Artis says, “to always stay humble, keep god in mind and make sure I am happy deep down inside.”

Parsons student Samuel Forney added that he too felt confusion about McQueen’s suicide. “When I heard McQueen died, I couldn't believe it. Suicide?? How horrible was his life? Being one of the top designers in the world,” he questioned.

There are many others like Forney who would agree that McQueen was likely one of the most talented designers of present day. His recent death however surprising, does question how much pressure is placed on today’s designers. Still it is difficult to disregard the death of his mother days before the incident or Isabella Blow’s death – also a suicide – in 2007. Either way McQueen’s suicide was felt by many as tragic and has clearly impacted the fashion community at Parsons School for Design. “As for someone who has to replace him and keep that aesthetic going the way he had it,” Artis continued, “for me that seems impossible, no one will ever to mimic McQueen.”