All in a Day's Work

Initially thought of going down to Sim Lim Square or Funan the IT Mall, but detrimental weather put those plans in cold storage. Well, at least I have more time to prepare for my Birthday Celebrations.

Didn't realize that there was a bug in the Photobucket link provided yesterday. Kudos to Melvin, for identifying the problem, and his timely feedback.

A Penny for Your Thoughts? I'll Give You My Two Cents Worth

On the 'Why Integrated Resorts?' pamphlet (available at all Community Centres)

Just picked up a copy of this information sheet at Braddell Heights CC.

"Some have asked why we can't have IRs without casinos. This is a great idea, but nobody is willing to build such an IR. If indeed investors wish to develop an IR without a casino, we would welcome them. But in reality, none of them want to because these large scale projects are not viable without a casino or some form of government funding"

In other words, the government is prepared to take a risk in opting for the former rather than fund the project through its Temasek engine. Not to mention the public outcry from the religious-moral watch groups. They could have gone the way of the numerous social clubs (with a resort element), but the temptation of bringing into the country (and no doubt, the culture) a casino (We can expect more Casinos to spring up in future. As in Casinos per se, ala Las Vegas) and the economic benefits it may reap have proven to be an irresistable mix.

It then goes on to say, "... NTUC Downtown East and SAFRA CLubhouses are wholesome family destinations where people go to swim, eat , play golf and enjoy the facilities. Somewhere within is a small jackpot room that makes the money to keep the entire club viable. If the jackpot rooms are removed, NTUC and SAFRA clubs will have to close down."

As with everything bureaucratic in nature, the clubs per se are inefficient. If they had done their sums in the first place, the jackpot machines (affectionatly called 'fruit machines' for the harmless-looking fruits depicted in many machines) would provide extra revenue, not necessary (or 'operating revenue') revenue (to cover operating costs). Besides, with so many members, a one dollar increment in the monthly maintenance cost per member would provide enough funds (over the course of a year or so) to upgrade existing facilities or build new ones.

What Others are Blogging About

On Training Hazards in the Army

"Starry Night" by Mr Miyagi.

Geography of Women, between the ages

18 & 22, she is like Africa, half discovered, half wild, naturally beautiful with fertile soil.
23 & 30, she is like America, well developed & open to trade, especially for someone with cash.
31 & 35, she is like India, very hot, relaxed & convinced of her own beauty.
36 & 40, she is like France, gently aging but still warm & a desirable place to visit
41 & 50, she is like Great Britain, with a glorious & all conquering past.
51 & 60, she is like Yugoslavia, lost the war & haunted by past mistakes.
61 & 70, she is like Russia, very wide & borders are now unpatrolled.
After 70, she becomes Tibet. Gracefully beautiful, with a mysterious past & the wisdom of the ages.