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——景德鎮陶瓷文化及產業快速發展系列報道之二本報記者 邱西穎18年前，mini storage當中國工藝美術大師劉遠長自立門戶創辦起景德鎮市首家名人工作室的時候，人們對這一新生事物投以詫異的目光；2003年，當台灣“法藍瓷”進駐景德鎮，其採用弧線形設計、立體雕塑手法裝飾、豔麗色彩表現的日用瓷簡直讓人看得目眩神迷，而更令人不可思議的是，即使是一片小餐碟、一隻小湯匙、一個咖啡杯都能賣出上千元的高價。這是一種怎樣的文化現象，又將給景德鎮帶來哪些變化？景德鎮市政府有關負責人說：“這就是文化創意產業，一個以創造力為核心競爭力的新興產業，其特點就是低能耗、高附加值。現如今，景德鎮各類創意工廠、作坊和名人工作室已達4000多家，並擁有國家級文化產業示範基地2家，省級文化產業示範基地5家。”大力保護工業遺產，陶瓷文化創意產業有了新載體近年來，在深化國有陶瓷企業改革過程中，景德鎮遺留了一大片大生產時代的陶瓷工業活遺產。為大力保護陶瓷工業文脈，景德鎮市�動了“一軸四片六廠”陶瓷工業遺存保護區建設工程，其中包括利用一批老國有陶瓷企業工業廠房和窯爐打造創意產業項目。景德鎮市雕塑瓷廠是最早利用工業遺存打造創意產業園的成功典範。在企業改製後，該廠對原有老廠房和設備進行修復，並美化廠區環境，出台一系列優惠政策，以此吸引創意實體進駐。最初，在原廠長、中國工藝美術大師劉遠長的帶領下，廠內20余名陶瓷大師紛紛在此開辦個人工作室，形成了由藝術創作創造個人價值的產業模式。接著，2005年，香港著名文化創意連鎖機構“樂天陶社”入駐雕塑瓷廠，新穎的理念吸納了一大批外地藝術家創作團隊。到了周末，由其組織的“樂天創意集市”給藝術家們的創意產品提供了很好的展示和銷售平台，特殊的創意形式引來了越來越多的購買者。如今，“樂天創意集市”聲名遠揚，攤位已經從最初的幾個發展到300多個，不僅吸引了國內外近50萬人次前來參觀購物，而且成功扶植近500名大學生創業就業。目前，該廠共有創意作坊241家，從業人員1900余人，年產值5600萬元，年利潤達450萬元。同時，景德鎮市利用建國瓷廠保留完整的古柴窯遺址、古作坊群和有著深刻時代烙印的生產設備、工藝，建設一個以創意產業為核心，集創作、展示、旅遊、時尚、商貿、陶瓷製作體驗為一體的“景德鎮市1949文化創意園”，目前已完成一期建設，設有中心藝術館、創意工作區、手工制瓷區、時尚休閒區、培訓交流區等，入駐陶瓷創意工作室60戶。預計後期建設完成後，總建築面積可達3萬平方米，可容納150個創作工作室和機構。此外，利用舊廠房改造的陶瓷創業self storage業孵化基地景德鎮市曙光瓷廠，投入資金135萬元，實現落戶經營實體138家、新增從業人員1600多人、年產值過億元的基地首期建設目標。正在�動的景德鎮重點創意產業項目——“陶溪川文化產業園”，規劃總占地1300畝，橫跨2個中心城區，將修復、改造和利用11家陶瓷工廠的工業遺存，打造一個涵蓋各類藝術工作室、餐飲、商務酒店會所、休閒劇場、博物館、特色精品街、主題客棧、百貨商場等多業態的特色文化園區。陶瓷文化創意產業迅猛發展，成為新的經濟增長點近年來，景德鎮在調整產業結構，構築“大陶瓷”發展格局過程中，陶瓷文化創意產業被定位為最具後發優勢的朝陽產業。目前，該市陶瓷文化創意產業產值以每年40%的速度增長，今年上半年陶瓷文化創意產業總產值近50億元，成為新的經濟增長點。“日用瓷藝術化”唱響了當代景德鎮大多日用瓷企業的主旋律。景德鎮陶瓷股份有限公司作為本土最具影響力的國有日用瓷企業，其“紅葉”牌餐具曾多次作為國禮饋贈外國元首，但10年前該企業的產品每件（陶瓷計量單位）僅賣3元人民幣，而如今公司注重產品外觀及畫面等創意設計後，產品單價足足翻了10倍。“藝術瓷創意化”是景德鎮藝術陶瓷收藏界的一大賣點。景德鎮有中國工藝美術大師、中國陶瓷藝術大師、陶瓷藝術類教授、中國陶瓷設計大師、江西省工藝美術大師、江西省陶瓷藝術大師等共計8000余人。近年來，大師們紛紛練內功、強本領，在作品工藝和畫面創意上下工夫，創作出一批又一批精品傑作，使“大師”創意經濟呈現高開高走的局面。早在2009年，景德鎮瓷博會首屆藝術瓷拍賣會上，藝術泰斗王錫良創作的“黃山四千仞”瓷板就賣到了782萬元的高價。近年來，在國內“嘉德”、“保利”等知名公司拍賣會上，不僅張松茂、陸如、李菊生等頂級大師的作品屢創新高，一些中等級大師的作品也因極好的創意獲得收藏家的高價收購。平台建設是陶瓷文化創意產業發展的新引擎。景德鎮陶瓷工業園加大創意陶瓷企業的招商力度和政策扶持力度，已成功引進陶瓷文化創意產業企業32家，其中投產企業12家，在建和擬開工企業20家。為扶持一批能代表景德鎮傳統陶瓷特色的手工制瓷作坊企業，園區已規劃260畝土地建設陶瓷名坊園，使之成為國內首個吸收“定、汝、官、哥、鈞”五大名窯及其精品，充分展示景德鎮陶瓷名人、名品、名坊的手工制瓷平台。同時，該市正積極建設50平方公里的陶瓷文化創意新區，打造一個承接、延續千年瓷都陶瓷文化及產業發展的窗口和平台。文化創意，這邊風景獨好。文化創意如滾滾大潮在瓷都大地湧動，未來的景德鎮將是一個獨具特色的文化之城和創意之城。迷你倉

Source: Journal Star, Peoria, Ill.迷你倉新蒲崗July 13--Travelers to Peoria who come off the Interstate may be surprised to find an ice cream store where signs told them to expect a visitors center.If they like good ice cream, they might be appreciative, but right now there's nothing at that location, the old Powell Press Building, to help a curious tourist.Emack & Bolio owners Tim Hennessey and Jim Maxwell, the pair who took over the 159-year-old building to provide a riverfront ice cream outlet, are all for providing visitor information.There's a little alcove on the north side of the building made to order for an information rack. There's already a riverfront map posted on the wall there.Peoria Area Convention and Visitors Bureau director Don Welch said the visitors program is "in transition" and points to information now available at the Peoria Civic Center.But road signs lead people to a riverfront visitors center that closed in May.Larry Curless was less than thrilled with the way the visitors center was treated. While several other locations were considered for the center, nothing was decided on, he said.A Pekin resident who spent 35 years working at Caterpillar Inc. before a seven-year stint with the PACVB, Curless managed the center and the 12 volunteers that gave their time to assisting visitors.He wrote a letter to the Journal Star earlier this year defending the role the center and the volunteers played. "I have to commend the volunteers we had. There was nothing they liked better than telling people abo迷你倉出租t their city," said Curless."The bureau treated me very well, but a city the size of Peoria needs a visitors center. Galesburg has one, and it's a lot smaller town," he said.So here we are in mid-July, smack dab in the heart of the summer traveling season with riverfront events at their peak but little to help visitors who come our way.Let's offer a few suggestions:- Introduce a tourist information robot to the riverfront. Not only would it offer help but be something of an attraction of its own. Rather than actually building a machine to start clanking around, I'd go the easy route: hire a teenager in a costume with pamphlets.- Set up a lemonade stand in front of the ice cream shop. There's plenty of room on the platform. Only this stand wouldn't be manned by kids but senior volunteers to dispense advice (and cold drinks) at select times.- Work a deal with Hooters. That's the chain restaurant that reader Bill Kauzlarich calls "Peoria's most successful riverfront business ... yet never mentioned by the media." I'll mention it. Line up Hooters representatives as weekend tour guides at the ice cream outpost. I know Tim and Jim won't mind.Steve Tarter is Journal Star business editor. Tarter's phone number is 686-3260, and his email address is starter@pjstar.com. Follow his blog, Minding Business, on pjstar.com and follow him on Twitter @SteveTarterCopyright: ___ (c)2013 the Journal Star (Peoria, Ill.) Visit the Journal Star (Peoria, Ill.) at www.PJStar.com Distributed by MCT Information Services儲存倉

【本報訊】記者林曉晴、實習記者謝文軒報道：旅行社的宣傳單張上寫有「天天出發」，迷你倉庫但實在是有部分日子不出團。有律師指出，有關廣告字眼與貨品不符，可能已觸犯虛假說明，即使不成團有很多原因，亦不建議旅行社再使用有關字眼，免造成混淆。但亦有大律師指出，旅行社是否觸犯條例取決於旅行社職員的推銷手法，即使廣告寫有「天天出發」，但職員推銷時未有提及，亦不算犯法。律師梁永鏗表示，廣告上的說明應名副其實，不可以虛構，如廣告上寫有「天天出發」，消費者便會認為是天天有團出發，假若旅行社未能做到，便可能觸犯虛假說明。但他亦認為，不出團可以有很多原因，例如旅行社真的天天有團出發，只是其中數日人數不足未能成團，旅行社只要向海關說明，便不算觸犯。但他建議，為免造成消費儲存混淆，旅行社應不再採用有關字眼，而是寫明出發日期。大律師陸偉雄認為，廣告上的字眼很多時都未必是事實，可能有吹噓成分，但他強調有吹噓成分並不代表內容失實，旅行社可在行程下方就條款補充，便可免觸犯條例，旅行社亦可能因其他客觀因素導致未能天天出發，例如淡季收客不足，因此單以傳單上印有「天天出發」很難判斷有否違反條例。他續指，新修訂的《商品說明條例》主要規管不良手法，因此最重要是消費者如去到旅行社時，職員仍然指天天出發，但結果不是天天出發，旅行社或可能違法。立法會旅遊界議員姚思榮亦指，業界為免誤墮法網，不少大型的旅行社亦已陸續更改廣告字眼，但他擔心中小型的旅行社仍未意識到問題所在，因此促政府加緊向業界宣傳，及在條例實行首半年至9個月，給業界寬限期。新蒲崗迷你倉

據全國旅遊景區品質等級評定委員會公告，儲存倉廣東圓玄道觀達到4A級旅遊景區標準，被授予國家4A級旅遊景區稱號，成為國內首家被評為4A級旅遊景點的道教活動場所。 廣東圓玄道觀位於廣州市花都區新華鎮，由香港圓玄學院出資興建，1998年首期工程落成開放。經過近幾年的擴建，規模越來越大，佔地面積有近百畝，形成廣東道教活動的中心。圓玄道觀自2010年以來，按照國家4A級旅遊景區標準，精心打造以宗教文化為主題的旅遊景點，迷你倉沙田後投入巨資，完善各種設施，不斷提升管理水平，樹立景區與宗教相結合的旅遊品牌。 圓玄道觀按傳統宮觀建築要求沿子午線坐北向南而建。主體建築以仿古「天壇」形式建造，氣勢雄偉，神聖莊嚴，布局巧究，環境清幽，風水得天獨厚。道觀內建有三清殿、元辰寶殿、觀音殿、三聖殿、純陽殿、凌霄殿、黃大仙殿、文化陳列館、素食館、盆景園等配套設施，其中元辰寶殿是全國最大的六十甲子殿，是拜太歲祈求神明庇祐的最佳勝地。香港商報記者李芳盛芳齡迷你倉價錢

“孤獨星球”這一系列在旅行者中大名鼎鼎的旅行指南，儲存倉始于41年前兩個沒錢的年輕人開著一輛破舊二手車出發的旅程。這次旅程始于一見鐘情。1970年10月，倫敦商學院在讀MBA的托尼·惠勒和初到倫敦的愛爾蘭女子莫琳在倫敦攝政公園的一張長椅上不期而遇，一見鐘情的兩個人在一年後結婚，新婚不久的托尼和莫琳于1972年6月離開倫敦，穿越歐亞大陸，先後經過土耳其、伊朗、阿富汗、尼泊爾、泰國、馬來西亞、新加坡和印度尼西亞，歷時6個月到達澳大利亞。到悉尼時兩人的口袋里只剩下27美分。沒想到很多朋友對他倆這種旅行方式頗有興趣，紛紛打聽。兩人乾脆將一路見聞寫了下來，就這樣，第一本LP旅行指南書《便宜走亞洲》面世了，它是在廚房餐桌上創作、手工校對、剪裁並裝訂完成的。僅僅一周時間，銷量就達到1500本，短時間內竟然賣出8000本。兩人在1973年註冊了Lonely Planet，專門出版旅行指南。40年過去了，LP不僅成為一樁成功的生意——世界上市場佔有率排名第一的旅行指南出版者，在墨爾本、倫敦、奧克蘭、新德里和北京都有辦公室，擁有六百多名員工和作者，它還成為一種具有人文氣質的旅行方式的代表，成為一種文化現象。它甚至成為�多人熱情、夢想的寄托，去看這個世界，旅行中帶上一本“孤獨星球”，上路的人們就不再孤獨。在中國，LP也俘獲了大量書迷，其由三聯書店于2006年推出，版權于2011年12月31日到期，之後的一段時間，書迷感受到了“書荒”，原價97元的一本書甚至被網絡賣家爆炒到300多元。備受書迷期盼的新版、中國地圖出版集團出版的LP旅行指南系列圖書，終於在今年7月6日全國同步上市。首批陸續推迷你倉沙田《雲南》、《泰國島嶼和海灘》、《尼泊爾》三本，2013年預計出版26種。而創始人托尼也于當日來到北京，談及他的旅行生涯和LP的故事。“只要決定出發，最困難的部分就已結束。”這是托尼的一句名言。LP在中國，全新出發。晨報記者 劉婷·關鍵詞【中國】如果推薦中國這個目的地，托尼·惠勒認為最顯著的是它的大和多樣性，還有就是近年來的變化比世界上其他國家都大。比如在旅行中瞭解十年、二十年前中國某個地方的樣子和現在的樣子是非常有趣的。他第一次來中國是上世紀80年代末，那是一個很短暫的小旅程，當時從澳門到廣州待了幾天，然後又到了香港。之後他帶著孩子們來中國待了一個月，從那時起，他就經常來中國。在他眼中，中國變化巨大，記得最清楚的是，2006年從新加坡飛到中國上海，從上海開始乘坐長途汽車、火車等交通工具。拿著他們出的中國導遊冊，如果書中說從一個地方到另一個地方坐長途車要5個小時，實際上2個小時就到了。如果說7個小時，可能3個小時就到了，一切都比當時寫下來時快很多。惠勒認為，旅遊是一個雙向的往來，一方面，我們看到中國成為一個世界上最重要的旅行目的地，另一方面，中國遊客又成為出國旅行的最大客源輸出國。此外，中國是一個很大的市場，關於中國的LP英文版書籍也是一個很大的市場。要瞭解中國這樣一個國家，需要深度體驗它的文化和歷史，把這些方面有深度地表現出來，這也是旅行指南提供者的挑戰，是一件很有意思的事情。在中國市場上，他們一方面出版給中國人看的海外旅遊指南，也出版關於中國目的地的指南，比如說《雲南》，有很多中國本地人才參與創作。本地的指南由本地作者寫，這與他們在其他國家本地化的做法一脈相承。迷你倉價錢

古蹟之所以珍貴，存倉皆因年月久遠，歷盡滄桑，一磚一瓦，一柱一木，好似光陰一樣，無�就無�，再難彌補。既然係咁，官老爺係咪應該�緊保護古蹟呢？理論上係，不過實際上無，呢�，又有古蹟慘遭蹂躪，搞到古蹟變危樓�！呢幢破損古蹟係洪水橋廈村楊侯宮，有二百幾年歷史o架�，可以話係一座歷史活化石。可惜五月一場黑雨，楊侯宮天降橫禍，被倒塌大樹插穿屋頂，出現多處破洞，而最令人心痛�係，事隔兩個月，毀壞地方居然仲未復修，屋頂只係求其搵張帆布覆蓋，任由風吹雨打，日曬雨淋，情況好似一個老人被遺棄，一日比一日衰弱，頭禿齒落，風燭殘年。港產官僚唔通畀黑雨淋壞腦？設身處地諗�，如果你�畀樹枝插穿頭頂，流血流到啪啪聲，會唔會是但搵塊膠布黏住個頭算數，會唔會等幾個月至去治理？古蹟百年，垂垂老矣，軀殼比人體仲脆弱，磚剝瓦墮，柱毀木蝕，救得幾多得幾多，點能夠任由毀損，望天打卦o架？官老爺咁樣保育，毀育就差唔多！洪水橋新發展區今日公布初步發展大綱圖，區內有十座法定古蹟同歷史建築。楊侯宮損毀失修，其他歷史建築又點情況呢？原來都唔好自存倉去邊，好似三級歷史建築士宏書室咁，已經淪為雜物房，擺滿卡式石油氣爐、摺�、膠�，大家不難想像，呢間儒雅書房盆菜宴後杯盤狼藉�樣子。古蹟變危樓，歷史建築變雜物房，由此可見，唔係香港無文化遺產，只係官員唔識寶�。所謂愈窮愈見鬼，香港向來被視為文化沙漠，由小漁村演變成大都市不過匆匆百年，所以古色古香�歷史古蹟更加寶貴。可悲�係，官老爺唔係當寶，而係當草，古蹟空置唔去保育，毀壞又唔去修葺。私人古蹟如何東花園已經存留唔到，如果連政府古蹟都逐漸消失，香港仲有乜�歷史遺產留畀子子孫孫？唔通真係只留低一份集體記憶？講開又講，港府糟蹋古蹟已經唔係新聞。三年前又係一場黑雨，擁有幾百年歷史�大埔碗�被沖落山腳底，搞到滿目瘡痍，令人不忍卒睹，你話港產官僚係咪抵鬧�！咁講啦，保育政策一塌糊塗，古蹟岌岌可危，港府更加淪為一座危樓，日久失修，搖搖欲墜，�面�人徒有空殼而無靈魂，施政望天打卦，遲早�檔o架咋！楊侯宮損毀無人理，搞到磚剝瓦墮，令路人隨時天降橫禍。鬼唔望第一個「中頭獎」�就係保育官僚，等佢�瞌眼���，叮！迷你倉新蒲崗

Are global events like the Singapore F1 Grand Prix the best way to enhance Singapore's profile internationally? What other events or projects would you like to see hosted in Singapore?Kenny GohGroup Chief Executive OfficerMACROKIOSKSINGAPORE has put itself on the world stage after hosting major sporting events such as the Youth Olympics and F1.mini storage The nation was proven to be an excellent setting for such world-class events and strong awareness was generated, amongst locals and foreigners alike, of the city's financial and infrastructure capabilities, rich heritage and beauty. With Singapore's Sports Hub due to open sometime next year, I very much look forward to seeing a major sporting event such as the Asian Games or even the Olympics being held in Singapore.We at MACROKIOSK believe that, given the state of Singapore's technology infrastructure coupled with the proliferation of smart devices in the hands of an increasingly mobile savvy community, organizers can explore taking a step further and utilising mobile services and solutions to creatively engage audiences at home, on the move or abroad with more interactive, real-time informational experience in a way never before possible.By leveraging on mobile technology engagement, Singapore will succeed in positioning itself, to the ever growing mobile society of more than 6 billion worldwide, as a country that is not only good and safe for business but an exciting place for leisure as well.Cameron VernestManaging Director of Singapore & the PhilippinesBlackBerryMANY see the F1 Grand Prix race in Singapore as one of the season's best races and the only night race available. A race along an iconic skyline, watched by millions of viewers worldwide, is definitely one way to elevate Singapore's presence on the map.Also, there are not many events that currently showcase Singapore's appeal as a tourism and investment destination the way the Singapore Grand Prix does. BlackBerry is collaborating with the Mercedes AMG Petronas F1 Team on both technical and marketing opportunities. This opportunity definitely brings tremendous value to us as a brand, similar to the value driven (pun intended) by the F1 in Singapore.As an avid sportsman, it would be great if Singapore would consider hosting a National Hockey League (NHL) game.Jeremy LeeRegional Manager, S-E Asia & TaiwanMoogGLOBAL events like the F1 GP definitely enhance Singapore's profile internationally. In fact events like this put Singapore on the world stage and to that extent it is necessary to have a few marquee events on an annual or biennial basis. Hosting these events not only brings out the best side of the country but also demonstrates the capability to manage mega projects.Given the size, we may not be able to host the Olympics or World Cup soccer, but can definitely host signature sporting events like a Singapore Open WTA Championship and even create more industry specific events that set the trend. Also tourism is a significant contributor to Singapore's GDP and such global events will go a long way in enhancing the arrival of business and leisure travellers.Kemmy TanChief Operating OfficerM+S Pte LtdSINGAPORE'S spectacular skyline which sets the backdrop to the world's first F1 night race has been pivotal in placing Singapore in the international spotlight as a vibrant global city over the past five years. We are confident that it will continue to do so.The skyline showcases a number of award-winning and internationally renowned architectural gems such as Marina Bay Sands, the Singapore Flyer and Esplanade Theatres on the Bay. We believe that number will only flourish under the Marina Bay Masterplan, which outlines a grand vision for the area.Besides global events, we believe, as property developers ourselves, award-winning architecture will also cement Singapore's position as an international city. More so for projects with sustainability at their core such as Gardens by the Bay with 101-ha of prime waterfront land dedicated to lush greenery as part of URA's City in a Garden initiative.Looking into the future, Marina One will incorporate a unique garden ecosystem that will be a sanctuary and green space for communities to come together; a first for a Central Business District (CBD) development in Singapore.Iain TwineCEO, South-east Asia and AustralasiaEdelman Public Relations Worldwide Pte LtdTHE focus needs to be on volume of traffic. Traffic of people through the airport and hotels, across media, and through their spend. The real time benefit of Singapore featured globally on social networks, in the papers, on TV, and through conversations with friends around the world, is hard to measure but it has value. It also creates points of pride for Singaporeans.Big box events that show Singaporeans know how to support and get behind global sports, arts and culture, and the issues of tomorrow should be the sweet spot. If we don't go big, we will lose out.David LeongManaging DirectorPeopleWorldwide Consulting Pte LtdF1 Grand Prix attracts eyeballs. It is a global advertisement and a sustainable attraction for Singapore. Singapore needs such constant fireworks that can spark international interest.Mardi Gras is the most famous Brazilian season. Brazil attracts 70 per cent of its tourists during this period. The largest carnival celebration in Brazil and the world occurs in Rio de Janeiro, where two million people are found celebrating in the city. Singapore is an Asian melting pot and could get different countries' dances to be paraded with a water-festival-like celebration followed by a celebration of Asian food. Such dances and food festivals are attractions for tourists.Events and carnivals like these will add to Singapore's sparkle.Hugues DelcourtCountry Executive, ABN AMRO Bank NV Singapore andChief Executive Officer of ABN AMRO Private Banking Asia & Middle EastTHE Singapore F1 night race has certainly done wonders to put Singapore on the global map. The soft power of international sporting events delivers tremendous visibility, trumping the impact of other noteworthy business event activities such as the MICE industry.At ABN AMRO, at least I as a keen tennis player, would like to see Singapore stage a major tennis tournament like the ABN AMRO World Tennis Tournament (in Rotterdam) of which ABN AMRO has been a proud sponsor for 40 years. The appeal of the sport is indeed universal and tennis tournaments consistently score among the top 10 TV audiences. We can testify to this as today the ABN AMRO World Tennis Tournament is broadcast in 172 countries, and is covered in every corner of the world, in newspapers, sports magazines, online and on TV.Although there is not yet a significant number of Asian tennis stars, staging a world-class tournament here in the region would be sure to inspire more young Asians to take up the sport, and who knows - perhaps Singapore could produce a Wimbledon men's champion within the next 77 years!Joshua YimCEOAchieve GroupWITH their international standing and audience, events like the Singapore F1 Grand Prix have certainly helped to place Singapore on the world stage while bringing a lot of tourism dollars into the country.The government has invested over a billion dollars to develop the Singapore Sports Hub in Kallang and I think it would be excellent if it could be used as a platform to bring the country into the international limelight by hosting the World Cup, for instance.The World Expo is another event with great international standing that I would like to see hosted in Singapore. It would be very exciting if Singapore could bid to host this event as the event garners a lot of global attention for the hosting city.The Mardi Gras is one event I would really like to see happening, as it would mark a milestone for Singapore society. With its LGBT overtones, the Mardi Gras does straddle a political line so being allowed to showcase such an event will send a strong signal to the international community that Singapore has turned a major corner in being embracing of diversity.Besides importing such international events, I believe Singapore should also look into developing its own events with a strong cultural emphasis, and develop and package them for the international market. For example, Venice has its world-famous Carnival of Venice each year.Similarly, more can be done to create a unique Singapore experience for tourists. Our Chingay festival, for instance, has a lot of potential to be developed and promoted on an international scale.Zaheer K MerchantRegional Director (Singapore and Europe)QI Group of CompaniesTHE White Paper introducing F1 in India cited the main rationale as being to ''...bring in revenue from foreign countries''.The Singapore F1 has achieved much more internationally with its uniqueness as a night race, the skyline, atmosphere on/off the track, the acts/events and the surrounding spectacle associated with it is pure marketing genius which has certainly enhanced our profile.The F1 Circuit itself is a ''map'' that even countries like Bahrain recognise. Other activities would be to enhance and integrate local arts, fashion and culture into the race. Introduce local musicians and artistes into the roster of live performances with Justin Bieber this year.Singapore could consider organising a major music festival featuring a good mix of local, Asian and international acts. ZoukOut and Laneway do well despite being niche genres of music, so a Glastonbury style of event would attract diverse audiences.We should have different creative disciplines. Asia is becoming a fashion hub for artists and designers. An example of a project that has capitalised on that is BLUEPRINT, which promotes Asian fashion. Even the recent Gordon Ramsay local food extravaganza would appeal to foodies, yet be an ultimate event showcasing Singapore.Subbaraju AlluriCEOGrey Group SingaporeTHE way forward to raise Singapore's profile abroad is by providing a platform for the creative industry. By hosting a world-class fair showcasing the best and the most novel in the creative industry; from grapself storageic arts, performance, literature, film, etc, Singapore would attract a wider audience and position itself at the same level as cities like New York and Paris, where the arts are a major tourist attraction.Toby FowlstonManaging Director, SingaporeRobert Walters (Singapore) LtdTHE inception of the Singapore F1 Grand Prix into our nation's calendar since 2007 has garnered us international news headlines and raised our global profile.Successfully hosting a worldwide event on such a large-scale is a steady testimonial to the country's sound infrastructure, finances, security and productivity. Typically, these are the strong attraction factors turning foreign investors towards Singapore. This could in turn draw other massive events such as the FIFA World Cup, PGA Tour or the Olympic Games.Alternatively, similar to the famed London Marathon or Boston Marathon, our country can consider merging the current marathons into a consolidated, Singapore-branded long-distance running event.Christophe DuchatellierCEOAdecco AsiaTHE Singapore Grand Prix has certainly enhanced Singapore globally. The recent Hawker Heroes challenge which had Michelin star chef Gordon Ramsey taking on local hawkers was very well received and generated lots of publicity for Singapore. Singapore is known globally for a strong food culture and perhaps we can look into inviting other celebrity chefs here.With the opening of the Singapore Sports Hub next year, Singapore can look forward to hosting world-class tennis tournaments and possibly be a contender for other international sports events.Singapore has already gained a strong reputation as a playground for the affluent, and future well-organised and unique events will only elevate this.Annie YapManaging DirectorAYP Associates Pte LtdGLOBAL events are definitely a good way to enhance our profile as Singapore's strength lies in the fact that we are highly organised and efficient. There have been very good reviews about Singapore's F1 Night Race which definitely showcased our organisation skills and certainly, the scenic night view. Moreover, security is also another asset of ours, enabling us to provide a safe environment to host important meetings and world conferences.Some other events which we can continue to successfully host are air shows, aerospace events and private jet exhibitions which have been very receptive to locals and tourists.Lim Soon HockManaging DirectorPLAN-B ICAG Pte LtdSO long as the Singapore F1 Grand Prix remains the crown jewel of the F1 series, it will continue to enhance Singapore's profile internationally in a big way and unmatched by any other event in Singapore. That said, as with most highly successful events, the challenge continues to be to make it more exciting and more fun so that it remains as the most attractive event to attend.Another event that should be held in Singapore should at least match Singapore F1 Grand Prix in stature. I can think of none other than an international golf major. When top golfers like Tiger Woods, are here to compete, it will definitely enhance Singapore's profile internationally. We have enough courses of an international standard and quality to host this event, to complement our other excellent facilities and infrastructure. Singapore now has all the qualifications and attributes of a world-class MICE centre.Ronald LeeManaging DirectorPrimeStaff Management Services Pte LtdHIGH quality events are a crucial component of Singapore's tourism sector, the country's key economic engine. Singapore already boasts a vibrant events scene with several major sporting, lifestyle and arts events being staged in this country annually. This, of course, includes the Singapore F1 Grand Prix, which has been an excellent platform for us to showcase the city to the world in all its glory. I think it is important for Singapore to host more of such events that already come with a global audience as these cast the international spotlight on Singapore and serve to enhance the country's profile on the world stage.We have done well so far in the lifestyle arena, so perhaps an area we can look into cultivating would be high-level summits and conferences involving the heads of state of other countries. Singapore has a stable political climate matched with world-class infrastructure so it should be a natural progression for us to host events of such nature.Dora HoanCo-Chairman/Group CEOBest World International LtdWHILE the F1 has indeed raised the profile of Singapore globally, the limited number of visitors may not justify the cost of the customised infrastructure. Therefore, events such as World Expo and SEA Games would be better options to attract crowds.If those are not feasible, regional events, especially sporting events would be the next best alternatives. We could also consider international conventions or trade events.Soon OngCEOClarity GroupGLOBAL events are good platforms to put Singapore on the international map as it is an opportunity to showcase not only Singapore's modernisation, but also our hospitality, courtesy and warmth.While Singapore has done well in terms of bringing together some of the best in theatre, sports, lifestyle and cultural events, we must not forget the importance of international and regional trade events and the corresponding benefits that it can also bring to the country, for example, trade events targeting the customer experience space.Given that the boom years for Singapore's tourism industry are almost over, customer service and experience has now become the new business currency. This is particularly so for specific segments of the industry such as the hospitality sector.Appropriately capitalising on the advent of today's smart technology can help make a difference to the hospitality sector by improving the guest experience and customer loyalty. An example will be our Clarity Savant Intelligent Systems that brings the notion of high-tech lifestyle experience to a whole new level by making it simple and affordable for home owners to control any device in their home with a single, easy to use interface, whether on the iPhone or iPad.As the government plans to develop the country into the world's first ''smart nation'', smart technology will help pave the way towards achieving that goal. Trade events will therefore be that first step in opening the doors to collaborations that will help unlock the endless possibilities that technology can offer.Patrick LiewSpecial AdviserHSR Global LtdIN his groundbreaking book, The Medici Effect, Frans Johansson referred to the creative explosion that occurred when the Medici family gathered multidisciplinary talents to Florence, Italy in the 14th Century. As they cross-pollinate radical ideas, knowledge, expertise and perspectives, it resulted in many breakthroughs which started the Renaissance, one of the most progressive eras in history.Singapore can create a similar 'Medici Effect' by innovating and promoting cause-related events. We can leverage on our unique strengths and position ourselves as a global hub for supporting pro-humanity initiatives, including championing worthwhile causes in education, urban living, corporate social responsibility, and targeted green ventures such as the development of garden cities.Rather than ride on existing events, frameworks and movements, we may need to pioneer new industries and create different ecologies of support and services. In the process, it will strengthen our reputation as a city of the new economy and a responsible member of the global community, one that is committed to being a thought leader and a major promoter of social and environmental contributions.It will also strengthen our relationships with governments, NGOs, enterprises and consumers. As a result, it will enhance social and economic developments and build goodwill for our future.SM Ang, AllenGroup Managing DirectorAldon Technologies Services Pte LtdIT will take more than one international sporting event to raise Singapore's international image. Many famous cities with a longer history and steeped in traditions boast a range of renowned attractions embracing culture, lifestyle, sports, business, diplomacy, architecture, entertainment and the arts. For example, London, New York, Paris, Tokyo host many famous attractions ranging from international sports events, architecture, museums, theatres to being the headquarters of international financial, diplomatic and non-government organisations.Although Singapore does not have a rich history or deep-seated traditions, nevertheless in the last 48 years we have been able to cultivate an image of a clean and green city and an icon of efficiency and honesty that is well known throughout the world. Certainly the Singapore F1 can enhance and project this valuable image internationally.However, I believe Singapore needs to develop a balanced portfolio of attractions to enhance our international profile. And I am glad to note that we are moving in that direction. Singapore Airlines and the Singapore Airshow have put Singapore on the world map. Perhaps, Singapore should consider hosting a world-class motor show to complement the F1 event. The National Arts Gallery, incorporating the old Supreme Court and City Hall, when completed in 2015 will change our architectural skyline and enhance Singapore's image as an international centre for regional art. The Shangri-la Dialogue has since 2002 developed into Asia-Pacific's only inter-government security forum, placing Singapore on the global diplomacy map.Finally, we should not underestimate the power of our local hawker food to raise the profile of Singapore as a tourist attraction. The recent challenge between celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay and our local hawkers attracted worldwide attention. I am sad that some of our hawker food may soon become extinct because when the 'master' retires there is nobody to take over. I think the government should develop a National Culinary Institute where traditional hawker food is not only preserved but further refined and where our own Michelin-starred chef can be groomed.迷你倉

【本報訊】會考失意不是絕路，mini storage四名香港迪士尼樂園的年輕廚師都是過來人。他們在職業訓練局修讀中華廚藝證書課程後，入行成為廚師，更在今年香港美食大獎奪得多個獎項，實現「行行出狀元」的夢想。23歲的吳海傑15歲開始在快餐店做兼職，會考只有五分。正當躊躇出路時，他報讀職訓局的西式餐飲課程，畢業後有幸在美國迪士尼樂園的中國餐館工作一年，又到瑞士、韓國和泰國參加廚藝比賽，更獲泰國公主頒獎。他勉勵應屆考生，「只要唔放棄，就可能遇到美好�事」。同樣會考五分的楊冠明也勉勵會考生，人生不只讀書一條路，只要找到興趣努力工作，總會有所成就。

連日來的大暴雨導致北川老縣城地震遺址被淹。每年7月12日，儲存倉45歲的張一強都會來到北川老縣城地震遺址，給妻子獻上一束白菊。“今天是她的生日，她以前很喜歡種花。”他說，地震發生前一秒還在家中和說話，卻眼睜睜地看著她被牆壓倒。他一直悔恨沒能救出妻子。但這一次，張一強只能把菊花悄悄放在進入老縣城的路口處——7月8日開始，持續的暴雨襲擊四川，北川老縣城地震遺址也遭遇洪災，最嚴重時全城絕大部分被淹。張一強把菊花擺向老縣城的方向，默默地抽了一會煙。此時，網絡上一場關於地震遺址存廢的爭論正愈發激烈。有地質研究學者質疑北川地震遺址的保護價值，認為“遺址被大水淹沒，至少幾億人民幣打了水漂”、“與其花巨資去維護不如讓其消亡”。“不是該不該保護的問題，而是如何更好保護的問題。”這是綿陽市唐家山堰塞湖治理暨北川老縣城保護工作指揮部對廢存之爭的回答。在他們看來，地震遺址被賦予著“銘記災難、寄托哀思、凝聚精神”的重大使命，需要永久保存下去。但現實是，由於遲遲無法解決暴雨時期堰塞湖的洪水問題，遺址在一次次的沖刷中正逐漸消亡。一群守“墓”的人老縣城遺址是北川人寄托情感的地方，在他們眼裡，這就是個“公共墓地”。每年約有20萬人從北川或綿陽前來祭拜親人7月8日下午，北川縣曲山鎮仁家坪暴雨如注，綿陽市唐家山堰塞湖治理暨北川老縣城保護工作指揮部（下稱“指揮部”）群�工作部主任白強和同事一直在搶險救災。“雨水一下子把老縣城的導流堤注滿，我們全力用沙袋想把水堵住。老百姓都說，幾十年都沒見過這樣的暴雨了。”這是仁家坪50年來的最強降雨。數百米之外，北川老縣城遺址也正被洶湧的洪水一寸寸淹沒。數據顯示，9日上午唐家山堰塞湖和北川老縣城降雨量高達285毫米，致使唐家山堰塞湖水位抬高8米，洪水將遺址大面積淹沒。“老縣城絕大部分都泡在水中。”指揮部一名工作人員說。7月12日，南方日報記者在北川老縣城入口處看到，由於北川老縣城遺址地處景家山、王家岩包圍的低窪地帶（當地的說法是“包餃子”），大量的洪水囤積其中，雖然當日雨勢已經減小，仍有大片工廠、住宅被洪水淹沒，老縣城的地標、北川大酒店、鐘樓等建築仍未露蹤影。這樣的場景讓65歲的北川老人王詩安感到心痛。“我在這個縣城里生活了46年，可以說和縣城一起長大的。我的很多親人就長眠在這裡，如果家再沒有，我以後去哪裡找他們？”汶川地震中，王詩安的20多名親人不幸遇難，由於對老縣城念念不忘，他始終無法適應新生活，遂選擇了回到老縣城守護遺址。在王詩安眼裡，守護遺址近乎神聖。去年3月，退休在家的王詩安來到老縣城祭奠親人，一條“保護遺址就是保護人類自己”的橫幅讓他感慨不已。“地震的傷害實在太大。人類雖然難以預警，但至少能夠從遺址中學到預防的知識，在下一次地震中儘量避免傷亡。”於是他報名參與夜間守護遺址。“我們是一群守墓人。”墳墓是當地人對老縣城遺址的普遍說法。即使迄今老縣城遺址已經免費接待社會公�360萬人次參觀紀念，但張一強每次來老縣城都有一種上墳的感覺，“看看以前和孩子媽媽在一起的日子。”接待參觀公�的工作人員也忌諱稱參觀人員為“遊客”，“老百姓完全不能接受‘遊客’的說法，這就是他們家的祖墳。”王詩安說，每年清明、“5·12”、“鬼節”、春節或者是某遇難者的生日，大批的本地人前來老縣城祭拜親人，但他也同時發現，每年前來祭拜的人逐漸少了，“也許傷口開始慢慢撫平了，適應新的生活了。”“指揮部”提供的數據顯示，每年約有40萬人前來祭拜，其中20萬人為北川或綿陽本地人。開始“守墓”後，王詩安每晚通宵巡護老縣城，在漆黑寂靜的縣城里一遍又一遍地走。“突然哪裡風吹得�當一聲，同事們就怕得要死，我卻很坦然。我跟他們說，都是自己的親人和朋友，有什麼好怕的呢。”時間的流逝，加上洪水的不時洗刷，王詩安對遺址區原貌的改變尤其敏感。“草長得特別兇，樓也變得越來越脆弱，經常需要用竹子去支撐，原來信用合作社大廈有一座鐘樓，地震時指針就停留在14點28分，但慢慢地鐘架生鏽坍塌了。要保護好遺址啊。”老人的言語里充滿了惋惜。在“指揮部”副指揮長劉強看來，王詩安和老縣城血脈相連的大愛尤其讓人動容，這也是很多北川人具備的品質。“老縣城遺址就是北川人寄托情感的地方，這就是個公共墓地。如果有家人在地震中遇難的話，他會要求把這個遺址廢除嗎？”遺址廢存之爭在北川老縣城惡劣的地形條件下花大力氣保護地震遺址是否可行？保護遺址並非第一次因為資金問題陷入紛爭暴雨襲擊四川期間，一股輿論風暴也在北川老縣城遺址的上空遲遲未散。網上質疑為保存北川地震遺址數億投資打水漂的聲音此起彼伏。是繼續耗費資金保存還是任其自然消亡？雙方各持觀點大打口水仗。事實上，保護地震廢墟不止一次因為資金問題陷入紛爭。在2009年相關部門提交的《北川國家地震遺址博物館策劃與整體方案設計》中，估算遺址博物館項目投資約為23.45億元。這個龐大的數字一經披露即引發爭議。隨後該方案進行了調整。“指揮部”宣傳處主任景富國解釋稱，2010年四川省相關部門批復的“5·12”汶川特大地震紀念館及遺址保護工程，概算總投資6.7億元，實質財評後到位資金只有4.7億元。這些投資建築的工程包括一座地震紀念館、一個地震遺址保護區和曲山鎮災後重建的集鎮任家坪。“網上‘幾億元打了水漂’的說法簡直是無稽之談”。景富國坦迷你倉沙田，老縣城遺址被淹是老問題，基本上每年都要被淹一次。首先因為老北川縣城位於兩山夾一溝的河谷地帶，地勢較低；其次是汶川震後，老縣城周圍的山頭容易形成滑坡，泥石造成堵塞；三是地震導致唐家山堰塞湖至老縣城湔江沿河山體鬆動，泥石致使遺址區河床已比震前抬高了10—15米。他表示，正由於投入6000多萬元的保護資金，建了攔沙壩、導流堤，所以老縣城經受住了50年來最強暴雨引發洪水的考驗，沒有任何震損建築垮塌，老縣城周邊也未發生較嚴重的泥石流，“可以說北川老縣城遺址目前安然無恙！”景富國提供的《北川老縣城地震遺址項目投資一覽表》顯示，為防止老縣城被泥石流侵襲，“指揮部”在老縣城四周修築了攔沙壩和導流堤，同時對遺址建築進行了加固。另外，為方便參觀紀念，同時新建了祭拜台、廣場等公共設施。這其中，安全防護網耗資150.89萬元，震損房屋加固及重要事件發生地保護耗資1900萬元，黑色護欄及木質欄杆耗資400萬元，道路及人行棧道耗資1400萬元，包括攔沙壩在內的兩段北川老縣城防洪堤工程耗資2200萬。“真正用于北川老縣城保護的資金為6050.89萬元，根本未超過1億元。”不過，有地質研究學者質疑保護行為的價值。署名為加拿大蒙特利爾大學工學院教授、中國地質科學院地質研究所客座研究員嵇少丞的文章稱，“在北川老縣城那樣惡劣的地形、地勢、地質條件下，如果不建成大型的地上地下排水系統，地震遺址是不可能保存的。若要花巨資建大型的地下排水系統，有那個必要嗎？與其花巨資建設與維護，不如讓其以自然的方式存在與消亡。”對這種說法，劉強表示震區人民從情感上難以接受。“汶川地震中有1.5萬多人在北川老縣城遇難，逃出的只有7000多人，老縣城就是遇難者家屬的祖墳。人家家人在那裡‘沒得’了，你現在說讓遺址自然消亡，誰願意答應？”同時景富國認為，北川地震遺址蘊含著巨大的科研和科普價值，“對推進中國和世界地震科普研究和人類的防災減災事業、提高人們的防災減災知識均有極為重要的作用。”在相關部門的設計中，老縣城遺址被賦予著“銘記災難、寄托哀思、凝聚精神”的重大使命。劉強認為，為留存地震災難的記憶，緬懷地震遇難同胞，傳承抗震救災精神，保護羌族文化，投入6060.89萬元保護北川老縣城地震遺址是很有必要的。“不能僅僅因為遭遇了50年來最強暴雨，淹了部分遺址而否定保護的重要作用。”遺址保護之路對“指揮部”而言，擺在眼前的“不是要不要保護的問題，而是如何更好地保護”的問題。解決洪災首當其沖7月11日，地震時期引發萬千感動的“吊瓶男孩”——北川中學學生李陽的一名同學來到“5·12”汶川特大地震紀念館，也就是緊臨北川老縣城的北川中學遺址。5年的時光並沒有讓傷痕癒合，她在觀看展覽時一度悲痛得難以抑制。在老北川，每一天都有這樣哀傷的情景。這個名為“裂縫”的“5·12”汶川特大地震紀念館自今年5月9日向公�開放，此次也遭遇了50年來最強暴雨，但並沒有受到洪水沖擊。數據顯示，截至目前，紀念館已接待社會公�近30萬人，即使在暴雨期間日接待量仍超3000人次。按“指揮部”設想，借著地震紀念館、北川老縣城遺跡和唐家山堰塞湖等地震遺產，去發揮其教育、科普和宣傳作用。因此，擺在眼前的“不是要不要保護遺址的問題，而是如何更好地保護的問題。”解決洪水問題首當其沖。景富國表示，此次等洪水退後需要及時對老縣城進行人工清淤，同時一些被損壞的公共設施需要修復。但要徹底解決洪水問題，還需對唐家山堰塞湖下游河道進行綜合治理。“主要舉措包括對老縣城河道兩邊的泥沙進行加固、對河床進行疏浚，以及炸掉老縣城旁的龍尾山，讓連接堰塞湖的湔江河繞過老縣城，這樣就能徹底解決洪水問題。”劉強透露，堰塞湖下游防洪綜合治理規劃已進入審批立項階段，預計今年汛期結束後實施。根據規劃，近期將進行老縣城段河道清淤，還要進行老縣城防洪堤加固和應急搶險通道護岸等二期工程。事實上，除了北川老縣城地震遺址遭遇洪災，其他地震遺址也頻頻受到自然災害的威脅。都江堰虹口深溪溝地震遺跡紀念地曾兩次遭受山洪破壞。嵇少丞認為，大地震之後，地形地貌遠離平衡態，要達到新的平衡態少則幾十年，人與大自然硬鬥，勞民傷財最後還是要輸。四川省地震局高級工程師、國家“5·12”地震遺址遺跡保護建設專家組組長彭晉川告訴南方日報記者，這次洪災過後需要花費多大代價維護老縣城，得專家進行評估後才能知道。“去淤、加固都需要一定的費用，太大的話則沒必要。”“保護地震遺址一個相對科學的態度是以自然保護為主，進行必要的加固和次生災害防範，這樣投入小些。接下來北川方面將對堰塞湖下游湔江進行綜合治理，治理的目的是保護下游民�不受洪災威脅，但客觀上對解決老縣城的洪災有幫助。”“像北川這樣對地震遺址進行大規模的保護是沒有先例的，日本、台灣等地震多發地帶沒有大片土地進行遺址保護。北川地震遺址實現了世界上最大體量和規模的地震遺址原址原貌保護的目標，除了在情感、宣傳方面具有價值之外，更多的表現在科普方面，可以提高公�的防災意識。至於科研方面，由於已經存在了5年多，專家已經對遺跡進行了充分的數據採集，因此即便被破壞了，科研方面的損失也不大。”●南方日報記者 陳晨實習生 朱祥豔 發至北川策劃統籌：謝苗楓 楊大正攝影：南方日報記者 肖雄標簽：地震遺跡 遺址保護 遺址博物館 保護價值 縣城迷你倉價錢

Source: The Eagle, Bryan, TexasJuly 14--Hundreds of Texas A&M students are quite literally competing for the chance to become enshrined in Aggie lore.文件倉University officials are soliciting the help of 12 Texas A&M students to model for a life-sized statue honoring the 12th Man that will be built outside of the east entrance when Kyle Field gets its $450 million makeover.The War Hymn Monument will depict the students "sawing varsity's horns off" -- an Aggie tradition in which fans hold onto each other and sway side-to-side. University officials said the statue won't be an exact likeness of the students and that their names will not make it onto the monument.Instead, the artist will use the students' bodies, clothes and poses as inspiration.Still, the chance to be enshrined on hallowed ground has many students fired up.More than 300 students applied before the university even issued a press release that the competition was underway, said Tom Reber, associate vice president of student affairs. When the official casting call was made on Thursday, that number more than doubled. Reber said it wouldn't surprise him if thousands of Aggies apply.He said the university wanted to use real students, rather than models or photographs, to help energize them for the upcoming football season."It's been very exciting," Reber said. "I think it shows our students are still fired up to be involved and excited to come back to school."Sam Torn, co-chair of the Kyle Field redevelopment committee, said an artist has not been selected for the monument and that details such as what the statue will be built out of, its dimensions, or how much it will cost, are unknown. Torn said the committee is interviewing "several renowned artists" from across the nation, and whomever is selected will have input on those decisions.He said the cost would be "significant, but reasonable."Torn said he plans for the statue to be erected in time for the 2014 football season, which would coincide with the construction to the eastern side of the stadium."This monument is obviously not going to be done quickly," Torn said. "We're trying to expedite the process as much as we can. ... We would much rath存倉r get it right than get it quick."Torn said there were some practical and obvious reasons why administrators did not want 12 exact likenesses of individuals outside the stadium indefinitely. Still, Torn said, he wanted the artist to capture the student experience."We want the whole monument to be symbolic of the 12th Man," Torn said. "We don't want it to focus on any particular student."Officials expect the monument to become one of the most photographed spots on campus when completed.One of the hundreds of excited Aggies is junior Elise Featherly."I think getting picked would be really cool because you would be able to stand in front of Kyle Field forever," Featherly said. "What Aggie doesn't want that?"The casting call has gone viral, she said, adding that several of her friends have been Facebooking and Tweeting about the opportunity.Featherly said she appreciated university officials including students in the process and that she loved the idea of a statue memorializing how A&M students stand together.She said she had already thought about what she might wear if picked but was trying not to think about it too much and get her hopes up. She knows the competition will be tough."I just really hope I get picked," she said.Also entering the foray is A&M Student Body President Reid Joseph. He, too, said the call for Aggie models had gone viral and that everyone was really excited."This is really a once in a lifetime opportunity to have the chance to be enshrined outside of Kyle Field," Joseph said. "I'm a third generation Aggie and was literally born to the Aggie War Hymn."To be eligible, the applicant must be registered for fall classes at A&M, have a satisfactory disciplinary record and be in good standing with the university. Interested Aggies can apply online at https://dsacms.tamu.edu/~warhymnstatue.tamu.edu/entry. Submissions are due online by noon Tuesday.Reber said a committee of students, faculty and staff will review the applicants and make a recommendation to university President R. Bowen Loftin.Copyright: ___ (c)2013 The Eagle (Bryan, Texas) Visit The Eagle (Bryan, Texas) at www.theeagle.com Distributed by MCT Information Services自存倉