Laura Leiva & Horace C. White

Modern Tokyo Times

Gone are the days where employees primarily head to the office Monday through Friday – working at home or telecommuting has a wide range of benefits for both the employer and the employee. While any employee likely prefers to work from a home office, encouraging employees to telecommute has plenty of benefits, including a lower overhead – workspaces at the office can be smaller, given there are less employees to worry about at any one given time. Employees who work from home are generally happier and more productive, and as an employer, who wouldn’t want that?

There are a range of new websites popping up over the Internet that cater to these working-from-home employees – whether it’s a website that brings workers together to collaborate, or an online inspiration board to help your staff stay inspired and energetic. Here are three growing websites that encourage communication and creativity from those working at home:

Sqwiggle: One of the leading concerns of those who work from home, or employers of telecommuting offices, is there is a potential lack of communication between teammates. Whether the company thrives on peer interaction or not Sqwiggle offers an online space for employees to log on and work as a team through an instant audio and video feed. No matter where employees are, they can all meet together as a team in a quick, efficient manner.

Link: https://www.sqwiggle.com/

Shopinterest: Looking to increase awareness and sales of goods through the Internet? Shopinterest allows users to upload images of goods for sale so browsers can easily find what they are looking for, or be visible for Internet shoppers who like to browse and re-pin images on popular social networking sites like Facebook or Pinterest. Home-based businesses would highly benefit from a website such as Shopinterest, simply because it offers an affordable, efficient way to promote or advertise goods for sale.

Link: http://www.shopinterest.co/

Mural.ly: Some employees are visually inspired and Mural.ly is a single online destination for a team of creative people to come together and work from remote locations. The website allows users to create visual murals for the entire team to view and edit – ideal for those in the creative arts or sales industries who need to visually create as a team, but from within a remote or home office.

Link: https://mural.ly/

As more employees begin working from home, innovative websites and applications will unite peers together in an efficient, visual manner to keep the workflow moving at an acceptable rate. These three websites are just some of the unique options for the new telecommuting workforce.

http://moderntokyotimes.com

Laura Leiva

Modern Tokyo Times

Mark Wahlberg never disappoints fans and Contraband is another action film that is sure to draw viewers in until the end. This action thriller, which stars Wahlberg and Kate Beckinsale, teams up two action favorites in this remake of an Icelandic film and creates an interesting and dynamic duo.

The film begins with Chris Farraday (Wahlberg), a reformed smuggler who makes an honest living installing anti-theft alarm systems. His brother-in-law Andy (Caleb Landry Jones) gets into some trouble while smuggling drugs for Tim Briggs (Giovanni Ribisi), and now owes Briggs a large sum of money. Briggs threatens Andy’s life and Farraday tries to step in with an easy fix. Not being one to cut his losses, Briggs informs Farraday that he will do whatever needs to be done to get his money. If Andy dies, Briggs threatens, his family, meaning Farraday’s wife (Kate Beckinsale) and kids, inherits the debt.

​Farraday decides to come out of retirement and complete one last job; however, he refuses to smuggle drugs and instead decides on a large run of falsified money from Panama. He gets a team together, but while in route to Panama, Briggs decides to pay Farraday’s family a visit. While in Panama, Sebastian (Ben Foster), Farraday’s best friend, and Briggs hash out a plan to trick Andy into making Farraday smuggle drugs for them. Sebastian owes money to Jim Church, a powerful black market entrepreneur and has hashed out an intricate plan to get this money.

​In Panama, Gonzalo (Diego Luna) drops a third piece of potential cargo, a Jackson Pollock painting which Farraday and Gonzalo inadvertently land when taking out an armored vehicle. Back on board with the painting, stacks of fake money and three bricks of cocaine, Farraday and Andy figure out unique ways to smuggle their goods into the United States, while things at home fall apart. Farraday’s wife is in danger and Sebastian, a recovering alcoholic, falls off the wagon. When Farraday and his team finally make it to shore in New Orleans, U.S. Customs units board the ship looking for all of Farraday’s goods,Farraday’s wife is in a makeshift body bag about to be buried in cement and Briggs and his men have captured Andy. Here, Chris Farraday has to use every bit of the smarts that have marked him out as a genius smuggler to save his wife, his brother-in-law and his millions of dollars worth of smuggled goods.

​Moviegoers who want to escape into a good storyline with plenty of twists and turns will enjoy watching Wahlberg at his best!

http://www.contrabandmovie.net/

http://moderntokyotimes.com

Christine Traxler, MD

Modern Tokyo Times

Anorexia nervosa is a severe eating disorder that involves obsession about one’s weight and obsession over the amount of food the individual eats and how much exercise they do.  The patient with anorexia is often extremely thin and continues to starve themselves or excessively exercise.

Anorexia nervosa is a nervous disorder and an unhealthy way of coping with severe personal issues and being unable to control emotions.  Sufferers feel a sense of poor self-worth and continue to try and get thinner in the hope of looking better.  They do not see that they are, in fact, too thin and shouldn’t lose any more weight.  It is a difficult mental disorder to overcome but is completely treatable under the right circumstances.

In anorexia, weight loss is primarily achieved by severely restricting the amount of calories taken in and by excessive exercise.  Some have bulimic tendencies and will binge and purge as well.  Misuse of laxatives, enemas or diuretics is also possible.

The major symptoms of anorexia nervosa include extremely thin weight, fatigue, insomnia, fainting or dizzy spells, abnormal blood cell counts, brittle nails, thinning or breaking hair, soft downy hair covering the body, constipation, cold intolerance, dry skin, loss of menstruation, low blood pressure, osteoporosis, dehydration, arm or leg swelling, loss of appetite, excessive exercise, preoccupation with food, depression and social withdrawal.

Families of patients with anorexia nervosa need to watch out for the patient skipping meals, exercising excessively, eating a severely restricted diet, lying about eating, weighing themselves obsessively, complaining about being fat and not wanting to eat in public.  Food rituals are common.

The cause of anorexia nervosa is unknown.  It is believed to have genetic factors, socio-cultural factors and psychological factors.  If a woman has a mother or sister who had anorexia, they are at higher risk, suggesting a genetic component.  Twin studies support this concept.  There is an area on the first chromosome that appears to play a role in getting anorexia nervosa.  Doctors believe that low serotonin levels play a role in the disease.  There may be psychological reasons for getting anorexia nervosa.  Patients often have a low self-esteem and have traits consistent with obsessive compulsive disorder.  The modern Western culture that values thinness is believed also to play a role in those who get the disorder.  Models, dancers and actors have a high risk of getting the disease of anorexia nervosa.

Risk factors for getting anorexia nervosa include being female, being in the teens or early twenties, having fluctuations in weight and having a genetic tendency toward getting the disease.  Life transitions can trigger anorexia nervosa as can being involved in activities like sports, dance, acting, modeling or other activity where thinness is valued.  The media and society in general has created legions of those suffering from anorexia nervosa because of a perceived need to be thin.

Anorexia has significant complications from being underweight and malnourished.  These include the risk of death, heart arrhythmia, anemia, lack of a menstrual period, bone loss and fractures of the bone later in life, decreased testosterone in males, nausea, vomiting or constipation, electrolyte abnormalities and kidney disease.  All the body’s organs can be affected if there is severe malnutrition in the disease.

Mental complications include chronic anxiety or panic disorder, personality disorders, depression or obsessive compulsive disorder.  Drug abuse can be a complication of anorexia nervosa.

Treatment of anorexia nervosa is imperative because it is a disease you can die from if left unchecked.  The main treatment is medical care of the electrolyte disturbances, malnutrition and organ damage.  Some of the organ damage is irreversible.  A feeding tube may need to be placed so that the weight can be brought up to a normal level.  The patient needs to learn about proper nutrition and how to eat healthy.

Individual therapy, family therapy and group therapy may be necessary to control the obsessive compulsive aspects of the disease.  Individual therapy focuses on cognitive behavioral therapy.  Family therapy can help the family make good decisions around the patient’s eating problems.  Group therapy allows the patient to get in touch with other people involved in the same disorder.

Antidepressants have been shown to have a modest effect on the treatment of anorexia.  Medications that control anxiety play a role as well.

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0001401/

http://www.webmd.com/mental-health/anorexia-nervosa/anorexia-nervosa-topic-overview

http://moderntokyotimes.com

Helmut Joachim Schmidt and Lee Jay Walker

Modern Tokyo Times

The Syrian Armed Forces have retaken Qusair near the border with Lebanon and clearly this successful military operation is hurting the enemies of this secular nation. After all, with NATO Turkey facing internal social and political issues – and with this major terrorist and military ratline being closed in Qusair – then clearly the situation looks more optimistic for the Syrian government. Therefore, major Western powers are responding by manipulating the mass media by raising the issue of chemical weapons and that allies of Syria must refrain from supporting the government of Bashar al-Assad.

Killing and kidnapping religious leaders: Silence when al-Qaeda groups took Raqqah

It is noticeable that two Christian bishops have been kidnapped by the so-called Free Syrian Army (FSA) but issues like this and killing pro-government Sunni clerics does not concern Gulf and Western powers. Also, when the Al Nusrah Front which is affiliated with al-Qaeda took Raqqah (Raqqa), alongside other terrorist groups like Ahrar al Sham Brigade; then did America, France, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Turkey and the United Kingdom tell al-Qaeda groups to pull out? More alarmingly, with thousands of American and British troops being killed in Iraq; then why are America and the United Kingdom supporting the al-Qaeda funding states of Qatar and Saudi Arabia? After all, this is a mockery and perversion against the soldiers of America and the United Kingdom who sacrificed their lives for nothing in Iraq.

The Al Nusrah Front, Ahrar al Sham Brigade and various Takfiri groups then set about turning Raqqah into a “year zero Islamist zone.” Captured soldiers and anyone deemed loyal to the government of Syria were openly executed in front of adults and children alike. Then summary justice of whipping people and putting women in the shadows followed. Yet did major NATO Western powers bat an eyelid and did the take-over of Raqqah by al-Qaeda affiliated groups concern Qatar, Turkey, Saudi Arabia and other nations in the Gulf? Likewise, did the mass media throughout the West and in the Gulf region launch a campaign to be used against al-Qaeda affiliated groups to pull-out of Raqqah?

Former Yugoslavia to Libya

It is worth recalling that major Western powers and Gulf petrodollars have been involved in the wars of Afghanistan, Iraq, Libya, former Yugoslavia and now against Syria. At the same time, Mali, India, Niger, Pakistan, (Pakistan destabilized itself by allying with Islamist forces in Afghanistan throughout the 1980s and 1990s) Tunisia (secular leader killed by terrorists) and other nations have felt the ripples of outside meddling. Also, the fiasco of Afghanistan throughout the 1980s and 1990s fueled anti-Shia and anti-modernity forces which continue to grip many parts of the world.

The former Yugoslavia and Libya were bombed from the sky by NATO powers while terrorist groups were given a free reign to kill at random on the ground. This applies to the Kosovo Liberation Army (KLA) and Libyan affiliated al-Qaeda terrorist groups which once had fought allied American and British troops in Iraq. Indeed, the rise of the KLA and FSA share many parallels in terms of the speed of their development and the ratlines now being used against Syria. After all, it is known that FSA members visited Albanian ruled Kosovo (Vast numbers of Orthodox Christians have been cleansed on the watch of Western powers) and Libya is a military, covert operative and mercenary play ground.

Libya and the former Yugoslavia were bombed from the sky whereby major NATO powers were free to kill and destroy the infrastructure at random. In the former Yugoslavia (by this time Serbia and Montenegro) it is clear that NATO forces did not want to fight the armed forces of Serbia openly. Therefore, NATO systematically bombed the infrastructure of Serbia and killed vast numbers of civilians. The ratio of civilian deaths to military troops is shockingly high but of course NATO powers were exonerated from breaking international law. Likewise, willfully targeting the infrastructure of Serbia and spreading untold fear against civilians in order for this nation to capitulate was deemed reasonable by elite nations. At the same time, KLA terrorist forces which committed mass atrocities, including killing people for organs, were given a free reign to kill Serbian Orthodox Christians and destroy Serbian Orthodox Churches.

Vivian Martin, International Action Center in New York, states that “From the onset of NATO’s aggression from March 24 to June 11, 1999, the North Atlantic Treaty Alliance (NATO) flew over 35,000 combat missions over the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia. Over 1,000 warplanes (among others F-15, F-16, F-117) and 206 helicopters were used in the air strikes. More than 20,000 laser or satellite-guided weapons were launched and over 79,000 tons of explosives were dropped, including 152 containers with 35,450 cluster bombs, thermo-visual and graphite bombs, which are prohibited under international conventions.”¹

“The NATO forces justified the bombing of civilian targets as either “mistakes” or essential to the destruction of Milosevic and the Yugoslav Army. However, these attacks were not made solely against military targets but against the Yugoslav population as a whole.”

“As a direct result of the bombings, thousands of civilians were killed and more than 6,000 sustained serious injuries. A large number of the injured will remain crippled for life. NATO bombings have burned amputated, wounded and disabled many civilians of all-ethnic groups, ages, and genders. Children make made up 30% of all casualties as well as 40% of the total number injured. In addition, approximately 300,000 children have suffered severe psychological traumas and will require continuos medical surveillance and treatment. Children have been victims of the sprinkle cluster bombs, with delayed effects, and will continue to be victimized until all parks, play-fields and open areas have been made safe from the remaining unexploded bombs scattered throughout Yugoslavia.”

In Libya major NATO powers would once more bomb from the sky while anti-Gaddafi forces would execute their prisoners after torture. Many videos highlight that anti-Gaddafi forces which were allies of America, France, Qatar, the United Kingdom, and others; also systematically tortured and killed black Africans based on their skin color. Indeed, sometimes black Africans were put in prisons that resembled zoos and then forced to beg for mercy while being treated like animals. Of course, massacres took place on all sides but how does this exonerate the barbarity of what happened in Libya based on the meddling of outside nations?

Modern day Libya is nothing more than a failed state whereby Sufi shrines are attacked and the minority Christian community resides in fear. Various militias control several parts of major cities and terrorism emanating from this failed state continues to worry Algeria, Mali, Niger, Tunisia and Syria. Therefore, the new free Libya is a hotbed of instability, terrorism, Takfiri hatred and lawlessness. Also, Libya is a conduit in the flow of terrorists from North Africa to Syria alongside supplying military arms and covert operatives which manipulate the failed structures of this country.

UK, US and France condemn Qusair but Fine for Allies to Sponsor Sectarianism, Terrorism and Sedition

France is clearly riled by the loss of the international terrorist and ratline base in Qusair because once more President Hollande is using the specter of chemical weapons. Ironically, the UN finding under Carla Del Ponte firmly points the finger at forces being supported by major NATO powers and Gulf nations. Also, in Iraq and Turkey it is clear that al-Qaeda affiliated groups have been found with chemicals. Of course, this matters not because it is fine for al-Qaeda and the FSA to behead, kill minorities, kidnap Christian bishops, kill pro-government Sunni clerics, deliberately kill journalists and train little children to behead captured Syrian soldiers. In the world of President Obama, President Hollande and Prime Minister Cameron all the above equates to “freedom” and “democracy.”

American with its usual hypocrisy called on Hezbollah and Iran to pull fighters out of Syria. Of course, the same America isn’t stopping Qatar and Saudi Arabia from funding Sunni militant jihadists which not only hate the Alawites, Christians and Shia – but given their Takfiri mindset, then killing Sunni Muslim clerics is also fine. Qusair is also within easy reach of Lebanon and clearly Shia villages on both sides of the border have been attacked by various Takfiri and terrorist groups. Indeed, instead of condemning Hezbollah it is clear that this political movement stood by for a long time while their co-religionists were being persecuted. It is also essential to note that Christians are not worried about Hezbollah and the same applies to all faith groups because this movement supports the mosaic of Lebanon and Syria respectively. Yet, Takfiri groups want to destroy all and sundry and to crush Syrian civilization just like the Taliban wants to destroy the mosaic of Afghanistan and eradicate all traces of past cultures like Buddhism.

Chemical Issue

In the last few weeks it is clear that al-Qaeda groups and various affiliates are trying to use chemicals. The Long War Journal states “The Iraqi military announced today that it arrested five members of an al Qaeda cell that was seeking to manufacture chemical weapons, including sarin nerve gas, and plotting to conduct attacks within Iraq, Europe, and North America.”

“The Defense Ministry announced that it arrested the five members of the al Qaeda in Iraq cell and raided two factories in Baghdad that were used to research and manufacture the deadly chemical agents. The arrests were made with the help of undisclosed foreign intelligence services.”

In another article by The Long War Journal which provides information from several Turkish media groups. It is stated that “On May 30, the Turkish media reported that 12 individuals from the al Qaeda-linked Al Nusrah Front had been captured in antiterror operations in Adana, along with a total of two kilos (4, 5 lb) of sarin gas. Five of the 12 suspects were later released; the interrogation of the other seven is ongoing.”

“According to another daily, Radikal, however, the suspects said that they planned to take the materials back to the conflict areas in Syria.”

In another article by Modern Tokyo Times it was stated that “Human rights investigators from the United Nations (UN) have taken medical testimonies from Syrians which clearly imply that terrorists in Syria have used chemicals against the people of this nation. This applies to sarin nerve gas therefore will the enemies of Syria bomb and agitate against the so-called Free Syrian Army (supported by outside nations and agencies like the CIA)? Of course, individuals like John Kerry (US) and William Hague (UK) will try to squirm their way out like usual and a future “false flag” is sure to be raised. Despite this, it is clear that the “chemical issue” is “dead and buried” because at worse the side of Ankara, Doha, London, Paris, Riyadh and Washington have been involved in using sarin gas. Of course, with America using Agent Orange against Vietnam and dropping this agent on Cambodia and Laos despite not even being at war with Cambodia and Loas – then clearly the information released by the UN human rights investigators isn’t shocking.”

Also, the independent commission of inquiry which was set up by the UN according to Carla Del Ponte can’t find any incriminating evidence against the government of Syria. Therefore, Del Ponte comments that “investigators have been in neighboring countries interviewing victims, doctors and field hospitals and, according to their report of last week which I have seen, there are strong, concrete suspicions but not yet incontrovertible proof of the use of sarin gas, from the way the victims were treated.”

“This was use on the part of the opposition, the rebels, not by the government authorities.”

All the above information is mocking America, France, the United Kingdom and their allies throughout the Middle East. The same also applies to the mass media in the West and Gulf region which have raised countless false flags and distorted events on the ground. Laurent Fabius, the Foreign Minister of France, clearly doesn’t like to read about al-Qaeda being caught in Iraq and Turkey with chemicals. Likewise, he desires to ignore the UN independent commission which points the finger at the side of so-called opposition forces.

Fabius reported to France 24 “that his government was certain Syria’s army had used chemical weapons during the bloody civil conflict, in particular the deadly nerve agent sarin.”

“Asked if chemical weapons had also been used by the opposition, Fabius said he was not certain, but that documented reports of the use chemical weapons for now only reliably pointed a finger at Assad.”

In other words Fabius like William Hague of the United Kingdom are claiming that the security agencies of Iraq and Turkey are lying and the same applies to international agents which helped Iraq. Similarly, Fabius is rejecting the independent UN commission which reports that it is the side backed by major Western and Gulf powers which appear to have used chemicals. Of course, with the FSA and various al-Qaeda affiliates suffering setbacks on the ground then more false flags must be used against Syria in order to stem the time which is favoring the Syrian government. In other words, the so-called Western and Gulf sponsored revolution can’t succeed without major military support to vast numbers of international terrorists, mercenaries and covert operatives.
http://www.longwarjournal.org/archives/2013/06/iraq_breaks_up_al_qa.php#ixzz2VPfCodc0

http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/05/05/us-syria-crisis-un-idUSBRE94409Z20130505 　

http://rt.com/news/un-syria-rebels-chemical-weapons-854/　

http://www.france24.com/en/20130605-syria-rebels-weapons-qusair-france-laurent-fabius-diplomacy-russia-assad

http://www.iacenter.org/warcrime/25_civil.htm

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-22789455

http://moderntokyotimes.com/2013/05/06/syria-and-un-investigators-concrete-suspicions-that-fsa-islamists-used-sarin-gas/

http://www.longwarjournal.org/threat-matrix/archives/2013/05/on_may_30_the_turkish.php#ixzz2VPgQxrfY

http://www.agentorangerecord.com/agent_orange_history/in_cambodia_laos/ US and Agent Orange

leejay@moderntokyotimes.com

http://moderntokyotimes.com

Murad Makhmudov and Lee Jay Walker

Modern Tokyo Times

Nigeria and Syria are both on the frontline in the war of civilization because multi-religious states face the wrath of radical Sunni Islamist terrorists which support the Takfiri way of thinking. In other words, everyone outside of their draconian version of Islamist thinking is deemed to be subhuman and open to either economic dhimmitude or outright murder. However, for the Obama administration it appears that Islamists need protection therefore Nigeria was sternly rebuked by America for fighting back against religious fanatics. Syria, of course, knows full well the hypocrisy of America, France, Turkey, and the United Kingdom, which are assisting terrorist and sectarian forces against secular Syria. It is worth pointing out that nobody expects much from major Gulf powers apart from spreading hatred based on their petrodollars. Yet it is galling when Washington and others keep on supporting sinister forces which aim to destroy different civilizations based on Salafi and Takfiri hatred.

Boko Haram in Nigeria is a very militant Islamist organization which beheads Christian pastors, blows up Christian churches during religious services, attacks Muslim mosques which are deemed un-pure and commits many other types of barbarity. Indeed, just like radical Takfiri and Salafi Islamists in Syria, Boko Haram thinks nothing of killing Sunni Muslim clerics because militant Islamist forces in both nations hate all notions of religious pluralism. Despite this, the Obama administration is lambasting the government of Nigeria while supporting the terrorist ratlines against secular Syria.

Indeed, when the leader of Myanmar visited America it was noticeable that Obama raised the anti-Muslim attacks in this country but negated the fact that many Christian factions belonging to different organizations have been fighting in this country for over 50 years. It once more appears that attacking mainly Christian ethnic groups in Myanmar doesn’t enter the radar despite many bombing and military attacks in 2013. Therefore, America’s pro-Islamist and sectarian policies in Syria whereby opposition forces are allowed to cleanse Christians, kill pro-government Sunni clerics, kidnap Christian bishops, destroy Shia holy places, behead Alawites, and so forth; is starting to follow a similar path.

It must be remembered that Afghanistan (1980s and 1990s), Iraq and Libya all had more secular forces running the country prior to major Gulf and Western powers supporting the rule of Islamic Sharia law. Likewise, if the so-called Free Syrian Army (FSA) and various Islamist terrorist forces defeat the Syrian government then yet another secular state will be crushed on the whims of Ankara, Doha, London, Paris, Riyadh, Washington and other Gulf states. Indeed, when mainly Christian black African elites within the Sudan People’s Liberation Army (SPLA) rose up against Islamization and Arabization in 1983 after the leader of Sudan introduced Islamic Sharia law; the SPLA was mainly shunned by Washington in this period.

Therefore, when John Kerry, the current United States Secretary of State, condemned Nigeria; it would appear that America values the human rights of Islamist terrorists over Nigerian nationals which oppose and are being attacked by the brutal policies of Boko Haram. Indeed, the current government of Nigeria offered a compromise towards this terrorist organization. However, this was rebuked and instead Boko Haram just attacked citizens like normal within areas that they operate.

John Kerry stated that “We are … deeply concerned by credible allegations that Nigerian security forces are committing gross human rights violations, which, in turn, only escalate the violence and fuel extremism.” This same rhetoric is used against the government of Syria. Luckily for Nigeria, America is not involved in supporting terrorist networks against Nigeria unlike the ratlines of the CIA in assisting terrorism and sectarianism against the Bashar al-Assad government. Of course, the nations of France, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Turkey and the United Kingdom share similar policies towards the government of Syria. Yet how do you deal with Takfiri Islamists, Salafi Islamists, al-Qaeda and Boko Haram when they gladly behead and kill Christians and Muslims alike?

Also, where did Boko Haram obtain its funding from and why are Gulf versions of militant Islam spreading in Nigeria against mainstream Muslim forces? In Syria it is clear that Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Turkey are involved in the chains of spreading sectarianism and militant Islam against indigenous Islam in Syria. This reality means that Alawites (Syria), Christians, the Druze (Syria), Shia, Traditional Beliefs (Nigeria) and mainstream Sunni Islam are all involved in a civilizational war against the brutal forces of militant Islam.

John Kerry also stated “We urge Nigeria’s security forces to apply disciplined use of force in all operations, protect civilians in any security response, and respect human rights and the rule of law.” It is noticeable that the same America and the United Kingdom don’t stop trading with Saudi Arabia despite not one single Christian church being allowed and where apostates to the Christian faith (or any non-Muslim faith) face the death penalty. Likewise, if America is so concerned about human rights then why is this nation supporting Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey, in their destabilization of Syria by any means possible? Therefore, it seems that Islamist militants in Syria are free to kill Muslims and Christians alike – including untold barbarity whereby even training children to behead Syrian soldiers is tolerated – because at no point are anti-Syrian nations willing to put restrictions on the actions of the forces they support and control.

Last year when 39 Christians were slaughtered during Easter by Boko Haram the United States once more made a very apologist statement. Johnnie Carson, the U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs, commented that “I want to take this opportunity to stress one key point and that is that religion is not driving extremist violence” in Nigeria. However, poor Christians are not going around beheading people in Nigeria because they want a Christian law state. Likewise, mainstream and indigenous Islamic leaders support the unitary state of Nigeria and many Muslims in the Nigerian army – just like the majority of the armed forces of Syria are Muslim – are dying because they want to preserve the unity of their respective nations and both armed forces are protecting all faith groups irrespective of religion. This in itself is evidence that Islamist militants deem all other non-Muslims and Muslims to be infidels in accordance with their Takfiri, Salafi and other Islamist mindsets.

Similarly, America now wants to put pressure on Nigeria by raising the issue of human rights against the Boko Haram organization which beheads the followers of Christ, blows up Christian churches during services, attacks Sunni Muslim clerics deemed moderate and other barbaric acts. Ironically, in Myanmar many mainly Christian ethnic groups that have fought central forces have been abandoned for over 60 years. It would appear that Gulf petrodollars are not at stake and killing Christians hardly raises any eyebrows in Washington and London. Also, many mainly Christian led ethnic groups in Myanmar have not been involved in beheading people while praising their God; therefore, they are too moderate and democratic to be concerned about.

In another article by Modern Tokyo Times it was stated that “Under the watch of President Obama and willing political fools in France and the United Kingdom the influence of al-Qaeda is spreading and the same applies to Salafi Islamist political forces. Therefore, the entire Levant, North Africa and parts of West Africa have become caught up in the terrorist, sectarian and Islamist agenda of Qatar and Saudi Arabia. This means that America and the United Kingdom have become willing partners in the Islamist agenda of the Gulf while France is caught in the middle because political elites in Paris want to protect Algeria, Mali and Tunisia from the threat of militant Islam. Yet, when it comes to Syria the nation of France is doing the opposite by supporting the whims of Gulf powers, America, Turkey and the United Kingdom. France should rethink this policy because in history this nation favored more secular forces in the Middle East unlike America and the United Kingdom which always sided with conservative feudal monarchs and despotic leaders.”

Nigeria and Syria are on the frontline in fighting Islamist terrorist forces which seek to destroy indigenous Christianity, Islam and Traditional Beliefs (Nigeria). In Libya, Mali and Somalia many Sufi shrines have been attacked by Islamist militant forces. Likewise, in Somalia the al-Shabaab hunts down all converts to Christianity because of their Islamist inquisition and the usual way of killing is beheading slowly while praising Allah. Recently the minority Christian community in Libya is also under attack.

Raymond Ibrahim comments that “….what about the “human rights” of the victims of jihadi terror? In 2011, when Egypt’s Christians protested the constant attacks on their churches and the Egyptian military responded by massacring them at Maspero, including by running them over with armored vehicles, the White House then said nothing about “human rights,” declaring instead that “now is a time for restraint on all sides” — as if Egypt’s beleaguered and unarmed Christian minority needed to “restrain” itself against the nation’s military.”  Indeed, while the Muslim Brotherhood led leadership in Egypt continues with its anti-Christian deeds and the judiciary gives a rubber stamp to violence against the minority Coptic Christian community; the United States responds by supporting the economy and providing more military weapons.

However, the government of Nigeria and Syria support religious pluralism and want to maintain the unity of the state based on protecting all faith groups and people of no faith. Despite this, major Western powers, Gulf nations and Turkey are siding with the FSA and various Islamist forces which want to crush religious diversity in Syria. Now it appears that the Nigerian government is being attacked for fighting back against Islamist terrorists which seek to ignite a Christian and Muslim war. Therefore, why is America implementing such policies and the same applies to nations like the United Kingdom? After all, the governments of Nigeria and Syria are fighting against forces which support “Islamist Year Zero” and crushing all notions of religious diversity.

http://www.aina.org/news/20130603150853.htm

leejay@moderntokyotimes.com

http://moderntokyotimes.com

Japanese Fashion and Vogue: Young and Over Thin Model Changes 1 Year Later in July 2013 

Tomoko Hara and Sarah Deschamps

Modern Tokyo Times

In the middle of 2012 last year Vogue issued new guidelines whereby over thin models would no longer fit the bill. The other major guideline which stood out was that girls younger than 16 would also be prevented from representing this highly esteemed company based on stricter guidelines. It is well known that the fashion sector in the high end market is extremely demanding and in the past a very slim body was over emphasized. Of course, this didn’t always apply but by and large this image was deemed to denote beauty, sophistication, elegance and the perfect image related to stylish clothes. Therefore, it will be very interesting to see if Vogue releases information about these changes one year later in July 2013.

Vogue Japan is firmly established because the Vogue name is internationally famous therefore even non-fashion lovers know this exquisite company. Last year in 2012 Vogue was published in nineteen different nations throughout the world. Historical wise, Vogue is also very rich because this company can be traced back to 1892 when this publication was founded by Arthur Turnure. He was followed by Conde Montrose Nast after Arthur Turnure passed away in 1909. Ever since this period the power of American lifestyle and fashion made the headlines both internally and internationally.

However, issues related to anorexia, some models taking drugs because of lifestyle issues and enormous pressure – alongside areas of personal weakness – means that you have many dark sides to international fashion. Also, in recent years younger models are increasingly being used whereby the “boundaries” are becoming blurred between children and adults. On top of this, you have enormous cultural differences and because of these factors, and others; Vogue desires to take a responsible attitude to the dark side of fashion.

In Japan the age issue applies much more than over thin models because beauty and youth is very powerful within the culture. Indeed, images of young ladies of a very young age in established magazines may surprise people from outside of Japan. Therefore, for Vogue Japan the issue of over thin models will be secondary given the natural shape of many young ladies in this country, whereby the body frame in general is thinner than compared with many ladies in America. Of course, generalization is always dangerous but in general this applies despite dietary changes in Japan creeping into the social fabric.

In a past article by Modern Tokyo Times it was stated that “On the whole the fashion industry in general normally uses models’ which fit the “perceived image of beauty.” This notably applies to being tall, thin, stylish, and extremely attractive. Vogue is no different because the same applies to internationally famous boutiques which desire to highlight their new designs on the above type of fashion models. Of course, from time to time you do get periods which break the chain and the same applies to individual fashion magazines and boutiques which go against the grain. Yet the crème de la crème of fashion and lifestyle magazines focus on a “perceived image of beauty.”

Vogue commented last year that “…editors around the world want the magazines to reflect their commitment to the health of the models who appear on the pages and the well-being of their readers.”

It will be interesting to see if Vogue issues information about their changed policies last year because some individuals were cynical about the new directives. For example, Audrey Brashich knows the sector very well because she was a teenage model. Audrey Brashich therefore comments that “The cynic in me feels like they are simply grandstanding while really just throwing a bone to an audience that is getting ever more savvy and tired of the tricks of the trade.”

Others point the finger in the other direction because they believe that conservatives are trying to stifle the creativity of fashion. Thereby, some individuals worry about infringing on freedom. In truth, Vogue can’t please everyone but many doubters which are cynical will be silenced if this company releases information about how these changes have impacted on models. Therefore, with the guidelines being implemented approximately one year ago it is hoped that Vogue will give further details in July 2013.

Lee Jay Walker gave support to both main writers

Modern Tokyo Times Images

http://www.vogue.co.jp/

http://www.vogue.com

leejay@moderntokyotimes.com

http://moderntokyotimes.com

Olivia Gregory 

Modern Tokyo Times

Money management is an important topic these days. With the economy still feeling sluggish and new jobs scarce, many individuals and families are striving to make their dollars (and other currencies) stretch as far as they will go each month. Money management advice for the modern era is plentiful through multiple avenues, but you want to make sure the money strategies you embrace are full of common sense and devoid of gimmicks. Take a look at these books if you want to begin or further your study of money management; each one of them offers practical advice on how to improve your financial position and avoid many financial pitfalls along the way.

1. The Total Money Makeover: A Proven Plan for Financial Fitness (by Dave Ramsey) ~ Written by financial guru Dave Ramsey, this book addresses short-term goals such as building an emergency fund along with long-term goals like planning for retirement and funding college education if you have children. Practical tips and proven strategies make this book a must-read.

2. Dave Ramsey’s Complete Guide to Money: The Handbook of Financial Peace University (by Dave Ramsey) ~ A great resource if you are just starting to learn about money management, Dave Ramsey’s Complete Guide to Money reflects the principles taught in his 13-week class. If you don’t have time to take a class and need a jumpstart in money management, this is a terrific place to begin.

3. The Truth about Money, 4th Edition (by Ric Edelman) ~ A prominent financial advisor, Ric Edelman delivers a book that discusses many different money management topics through informative chapters including “Planning Your Retirement Lifestyle” and “The Most Important Financial Decision You’ll Make.”

4. The Money Book for the Young, Fabulous, & Broke (by Suze Orman) ~ Another well-known name in the world of finance, Suze Orman begins Money Book with a discussion about credit reports, job hunting, and student debt, providing a wealth of knowledge for the specific challenges facing the younger generation today.

5. On My Own Two Feet: A Modern Girl’s Guide to Personal Finance (by Manisha Thakor and Sharon Kedar) ~ Written specifically with women in mind, this book delves into topics that will help women of all ages manage their money well and prepare for the future. Learn about insurance, budgeting, saving, credit, and more.

6. The Retirement Challenge: Will You Sink or Swim?, A Complete, Do-It-Yourself Toolkit to Navigate Your Financial Future (by Frank Armstrong, III and Jason R. Doss) ~ If retirement is in your near future, you are probably already planning for it—this book could be a great resource to make sure you have all your bases covered. Exploring the financial realities of what it takes to create a successful retirement, The Retirement Challenge will help you or the ones you love navigate this life transition.

7. How to Retire Happy, Wild, and Free: Retirement Wisdom that You Won’t Get from Your Financial Advisor (by Ernie J. Zilinski) ~ Another resource for retirement planning, this book focuses not only on the financial aspects of retirement but also on the social, mental, and physical aspects as well. Chapter titles include “Retirement: A Time to Become Much More than You Have Ever Been” and “So Many Worlds, So Much to Do!”

8. Get a Financial Life: Personal Finance in Your Twenties and Thirties (by Beth Kobliner) ~ Bestselling author Beth Kobliner delivers a book dedicated to helping those in their twenties and thirties thrive financially with advice on topics such as credit cards, student loans, choosing a bank, money markets, and inflation. Providing a wide variety of information, this book is actually a great handbook for people of all ages.

9.   Debt-Free Forever: Take Control of Your Money and Your Life (by Gail Vaz-Oxlade) ~ The first step to good money management for many people may be to set up a plan for getting out of debt. Debt-Free Forever can help you evaluate where you are currently and then will assist you as you make a plan to become debt-free and stay that way!

10. How to Get Out of Debt, Stay Out of Debt, and Live Prosperously: Based on the Proven Principles and Techniques of Debtors Anonymous (by Jerrold Mundis) ~ Author Jerrold Mundis explores debt in great detail in this book, discussing topics ranging from the warning signs of debt to establishing a solid plan for change. With no-nonsense writing and clear explanations, Mundis offers a fantastic text examining the realistic possibility of debt-free living for anyone.

http://moderntokyotimes.com

Sarah Deschamps and Hiroshi Saito

Modern Tokyo Times

Michel Kors ventured into the competitive fashion market of Japan in 2009 and since this period this brand continues to consolidate. The handbag market is just one angle to the products sold by Michael Kors but this area alone is worth a staggering amount each year throughout Japan. Now it is becoming clear that inroads are being made in this area and other important segments of the fashion sector in the land of the rising sun. Therefore, many people are waiting for the respective sales of Coach and Michael Kors in 2013 in relation to the market of Coach and if Michael Kors is making inroads in Japan against this company?

After all, Coach may be on the horizon of Michael Kors in Japan because this company is firmly established and highly desired. Indeed, the reputation of Coach is known internationally for being extremely creative and where vibrancy is maintained year after year. With Coach being firmly established in Japan then the impact of Michael Kors in the handbag market is extremely intriguing for many fashion lovers in this country.

In the United States it was stated about Coach that their customer service is second to none. This angle is certainly important throughout Japan and noticeably in major cities like Tokyo and Osaka where the fashion market is enormous. According to the data of the Luxury Institute in America 25% of wealthy women had purchased a Coach bag. Equally powerful is that the same statistic was given for buying a new handbag in the next twelve months. No other company came close to Coach in America in other types of surveys.

It was stated by the Luxury Institute about Coach that “By design, Coach is a consumer-centric brand built on strong core values. In an increasingly commoditized and highly competitive global luxury handbag market, it is simply not enough to outperform your competition on products; you have to dramatically out behave them. “Unlike brands that tout their customer culture, yet fail to demonstrate consistent long-term profitability, Coach has repeatedly achieved superior results in Luxury Institute surveys for quality of product and service. In the mind of the U.S. luxury consumer, they are the clear winner in the Handbag and Accessories space,” says Milton Pedraza, CEO of Luxury Institute.”

Clearly, within the handbag and accessories sector in Japan it is clear that Coach is adored by many because their share of the market is sizeable. Michael Kors can certainly learn much from Coach when it comes to the Japanese market. Therefore, with growth being extremely respectful for Michael Kors in Japan, then clearly this company is learning quickly.

Timothy Schepis, (https://twitter.com/tokyofashndaily) who is highly respected when it comes to the retail fashion scene in Tokyo and throughout Japan, commented that Michael Kors will be “hot in Japan for many years to come.” This can be seen by the inroads being made by Michael Kors in Japan within just a few years. Given this fact, then new stores are planned based on strong sales and high demand within this nation. 

In an earlier article by Modern Tokyo Times it was stated that “Turning back to the luxury fashion market in major cities like Tokyo and Osaka then clearly you have enormous potential. It must be remembered that just over 64 million people reside in the mega-regions of Tokyo, Osaka and Nagoya. When this is fused with the purchasing power of most Japanese nationals, along with the fact that luxury items are highly desired by many fashion lovers in this nation; then clearly Michael Kors and other major luxury fashion brands understand the power of Japan.”

Coach and Michael Kors are extremely popular in Japan and many other nations because of the products they produce and a host of other factors. It is extremely intriguing to see how these two companies will shape up in terms of the share of the market in three to four years time. After all, Michael Kors is still expanding in Japan and by this time a fairer reflection will be known about the real impact of Michael Kors within the handbag and accessories market in Japan. However, one thing is for sure and that is that both companies will be in high demand providing they abide by the strategies and products which have firmly established both companies internationally.

Lee Jay Walker gave support to both writers

http://www.michaelkors.com

www.coach.com/

http://luxuryinstitute.com/blog/?p=1473

Lee Jay Walker gave assistance to both writers.

leejay@moderntokyotimes.com

http://moderntokyotimes.com

http://www.tokyofashiondaily.com/2012/08/michael-kors-hot-in-japan.html

Murad Makhmudov and Lee Jay Walker

Modern Tokyo Times

Irrespective if people support the Syrian government or are against the political leaders of this nation, it is abundantly clear that past interventions lead to chaos and failed states. Either political elites in Gulf nations, America, France, Turkey and the United Kingdom enjoy mass instability and cleansing religious minorities; or the agenda is to create weak failed states in order to protect the feudal monarchies of the Gulf and Israel. If not, then nothing makes sense and this also applies to Western nations being anti-Christian in the Middle East and in other parts of the world.

It is known that the most powerful religious leader in Saudi Arabia desires that all Christian churches are to be destroyed throughout the region. Of course, with Qatar and Saudi Arabia supporting Sunni Salafi fanatics and terrorists against the government of Syria; then this could be part of the anti-Christian crusade installed by feudal monarchs and religious elites in Saudi Arabia.

Grand Mufti Sheikh Abdul Aziz al-Asheikh from Saudi Arabia stated that it was “necessary to destroy all the churches of the region.” This distinguished Islamist cleric who is a close friend of the ruling elites in Saudi Arabia, voiced this opinion to the visiting delegation from Kuwait. It appears that he wants Kuwait to follow the anti-Christian and anti-non-Muslim religious line of Saudi Arabia which refuses to allow one single Buddhist temple, Christian church, Hindu temple and so forth. Therefore, when one militant fanatic desires to burn the Koran (something that Islamists do all the time during their terrorist attacks and destroying Shia mosques) in America the American administration and mass media speaks out; however, having strong relations with Islamist states which hate all other religions is obviously not a concern.

It is clear that Egypt under Gamal Abdel Nasser was a threat to the elites throughout the Gulf and in major Western nations. Likewise, Saddam Hussein was an ally of the Sunni Gulf dominated monarchies and powerful Western nations during the Iran-Iraq war. Yet the Kuwait question destroyed this unity. Of course, when Saddam Hussein was busy killing the Shia in Iraq and fighting against Iran then this was welcomed. Likewise, when Kurds were gassed in Iraq then this also could be brushed under the carpet. However, to enter a feudal undemocratic state called Kuwait was something else. Therefore, a well orchestrated media campaign was paid to increase many lies about the nation of Kuwait and with regards to many alleged massacres which later turned out to be clear fabrications. Despite this, the United States and United Kingdom will protect anti-Christian Gulf monarchies to the hilt because of energy factors, geopolitics and other important areas.

Over forty years ago the usual nations intervened in Afghanistan by supporting the most “year zero Islamists” on the face of the planet. Not only did America, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, the United Kingdom, and other nations, support Islamist sectarians and terrorists – but they even gave military training, assistance and helped to co-ordinate future terrorist groups. Osama bin Laden was once a friendly ally of major Gulf nations, America, Pakistan and the United Kingdom. Of course, September 11 brought this home to America but for the people of Afghanistan, North-Western Pakistan and India ruled Kashmir; then Islamist militancy is continuing to destroy all forms of moderation and helping to cleanse religious minorities. Women also have bore a terrible price and while Islamists may ban alcohol it is clear that selling and taking heroin isn’t deemed un-Islamic. Therefore, you now have a major drug problem in Afghanistan and Pakistan but despite all the chaos it is now the turn to destroy multi-religious and secular Syria.

Even while Afghanistan continues to burn in a spiral of Islamist hatred, enormous indoctrination, forcing women into the shadows and being unable to crush Taliban forces; the next venture had begun against Iraq. The Kuwait debacle highlighted the reality that while approximately 3 to 4 million black Africans were killed in Sudan based on the policies of Arabization and Islamization; then this could be tolerated, but invading a wealthy Gulf state was a different matter. Simply put, just like in East Timor whereby approximately one third of the population was killed by central forces in Indonesia – it is apparent that Christians (Sudan and East Timor) and Animists (Sudan) just don’t count because the US and UK kept on supplying weapons to Indonesia. America also welcomed the introduction of Islamic Sharia law in Sudan under the leadership of President Jaafar Nimeiri in 1983 just like Washington helped this legal framework to take power in Afghanistan, Iraq and most recently Libya.

Clearly, the anti-Muslim rhetoric aimed at America doesn’t hold much weight apart from opposing moderate forces in the Muslim world based on the objectives of Saudi Arabia and other major Gulf nations.  Therefore, the only forces to suffer at the hands of America’s foreign policy in Afghanistan, Bosnia, Cyprus (invasion by Turkey), Kosovo, Libya, Iraq and now in Syria – are Christians, secular forces and mainstream Islam which became attacked by Sunni Islamic jihadists, Salafi militants and a plethora of terrorist groups. These Islamist groups think nothing about killing Shia Muslims, minority Muslim groups like the Alawites, Sunni Muslim clerics which support religious diversity and non-Muslims. In this sense, the political elites in Washington and London have installed compliant Muslim dominated governments in Bosnia and Kosovo – while doing nothing when Orthodox Christians were cleansed by Turkey after this nation invaded Northern Cyprus. Meanwhile, secular forces within the state institutions of Afghanistan, Iraq and Libya have all been vanquished by the implementation of Islamic Sharia law once ruling elites were overthrown in the three above nations. Given this reality, it appears that America and the United Kingdom are implementing a pro-Saudi Arabia and Gulf Islamist agenda which is anti-Christian, anti-secular and anti-mainstream Islam because they always side with conservative and reactionary Islamist forces. The upshot being that approximately 50% of Christians fled Iraq and vast numbers of Christians have fled Kosovo; this happened on the watch of America and the United Kingdom. Meanwhile, in Egypt the Coptic Christians are now facing a growing Islamist menace but once more America and the United Kingdom keep on supplying more funds to the Muslim Brotherhood led government.

In Kosovo the Kosovo Liberation Army (KLA) was implicated in killing people for organs and other massacres. Similarly, in Syria you have video evidence of the Free Syrian Army (FSA) and various Islamist groups teaching children to behead Syrian soldiers, cutting open Syrian soldiers and eating organs, killing Sunni Muslim clerics which support the government and a host of other brutal deeds including beheading many Alawites and Shia Muslims. Yet, it appears that all the above – and kidnapping Christian bishops – means zilch to America, France, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Turkey and the United Kingdom. After all, the more massacres are committed by the FSA and various Islamist terrorist groups then the more they obtain funds in order to destroy Syria. It must be stated that Syria, just like Egypt under Nasser, is a proud and free nation which refuses to bow down to international domination. Therefore, the secular government of Syria is deemed to be a threat to Western powers, Gulf powers and treacherous Turkey because these collective forces saw an opportunity to destroy the last major secular and independent nation in the Arabic speaking world.

Libya in the post-Gaddafi period is nothing more than a failed state whereby various militias control parts of the country. Recent terrorist attacks in Algeria, Mali and Niger all have a connection linking the failed state of Libya. At the same time the CIA, MI6 and other security intelligence networks have been involved in sending military arms to terrorists in Syria via Bosnia, Libya, Croatia, Kosovo and other routes. Note, that the US and UK all supported anti-Serb forces in Bosnia, Croatia and Kosovo; meanwhile, the ruling elites in Libya now rely on London and Washington for economic support.

In another Modern Tokyo Times article about Libya it was stated that “The ‘bomb democracy’ Western and Gulf policy in Libya brought about the massacres of black Africans, killing of Gaddafi loyalists and created a “new society” based on disorder which is currently ongoing. Indeed, the chaos which is engulfing Libya is now destabilizing Northern Mali and creating problems for Tunisia. This destabilization is based on vast quantities of military hardware being available and more dangerously the Salafi ideology is spreading because of money from Saudi Arabia and Qatar.”

“Turning back to Libya and Northern Mali then currently Salafist organizations are intent on destroying all Islamic thought patterns outside of their “blinkered monoculture,” which thrives on hatred and fear. Indeed, in Syria video evidence survives which makes it clear that the Western and Islamist “marriage of convenience” is now spreading this dangerous ideology within this country. Therefore, mainstream Islam and religious minorities have much to fear in Syria. However, like usual political leaders in London, Paris and Washington will support any form of barbarity providing it meets their geopolitical ambitions.”

The nation of Syria welcomed the fleeing Palestinians and took in over one million refugees from Iraq irrespective if the refugees were Christian, Sunni Muslim, Shia Muslim or whatever. Syria is a multi-religious nation and secular based. Also, it is abundantly clear that no evidence can be provided which shows massacres by the government of Syria before outside nations sponsored sectarianism, terrorism and sedition against this nation. Therefore, the armed forces of Syria are doing their upmost to protect the people of Syria and preserve the independence of this nation. After all, which side is kidnapping Christian bishops, kidnapping UN personnel, killing Sunni Muslim clerics, beheading Alawites, butchering the Shia, murdering journalists and so forth? Despite this, major Western and Gulf powers alongside Turkey are intent on destroying the fabric of Syrian society and these nations care little about creating another failed state – after all, look at the track record of Afghanistan, Kosovo, Libya and Iraq.

leejay@moderntokyotimes.com

http://moderntokyotimes.com

Ri Kuk-Chol and Lee Jay Walker

Modern Tokyo Times

The nation of Myanmar (Burma) appears to be at a major crossroads because past intransigence is now being followed by a possible thaw, whereby this nation comes in from the “international cold.” Of course, for nations like China then issues related to human rights was never on the agenda. Similarly, major democratic states have a schizophrenic approach to human rights. This is especially confirmed by major democratic nations having close ties with Saudi Arabia which denies religious freedom, prevents gender equality and allows little children to marry old men under Islamic Sharia law. Therefore, within this chaotic world you have the nation of Myanmar which is trying to break out from isolation in order to exploit its geographic importance and natural resources.

Irrespective if people have a negative or positive impression of this nation; it is essential to understand the fears of elites within this nation which have tried to crush dissent and various ethnic groups for many decades. Nations like Nigeria had a brutal war named Biafra whereby central forces were challenged by ethnic demands for independence. Similarly, the former Yugoslavia was multi-ethnic and multi-religious just like Nigeria and Myanmar are. However, political convulsions and outside meddling led to the demise of the former Yugoslavia.

Indonesia tried to crush the ethnic and religious independent passions of East Timor which led to mass repression and untold numbers of people being killed. Eventually, East Timor became independent after regional powers like Australia intervened on behalf of the international community. Despite this, you still have many tensions throughout Indonesia based on religious and ethnic issues. For example, West Papua (Irian Jaya) faces Javanization and Islamization policies which are aimed at altering the ethnic and religious balance against the mainly Christian Papuans. This issue is replicated in other areas and also against other minority Muslim ethnic groups which desire greater autonomy (or independence) within Indonesia and this notably applies to Aceh.

The geopolitical angle is another major area which pits China, India, Japan and the United States within the Myanmar question. If political leaders in Tokyo and Washington continue with lofty ideals based on human rights, then clearly China and India will gain from this reality. Japan clearly hopes to expand economic, political and military angles to its relationship with India. In Japan the nation of India is viewed favorably based on this nation being the most populace democratic nation in the world and because of power projections aimed at containing China. Past relations between America and India were soured by Washington’s intrigues in Afghanistan and Pakistan. After all, this policy enabled Islamist forces to develop because of the deeds of major security intelligence agencies; this especially applies to the CIA, ISI and MI6. India felt these convulsions within Kashmir and by terrorist attacks throughout India based on the connivance of Pakistan. Therefore, the “right policy” towards Myanmar is not easy and this applies to the internal political mechanisms of this country and how major nations respond to the changes taking place.

In Myanmar you also have a powerful Christian element based on several mainly Christian ethnic groups which have been fighting for decades. Recent attention is focused on Buddhist and Muslim clashes. However, the Christian ethnic angle is the one area of fear for central forces in Myanmar which fear possible disintegration. It is believed that you have approximately 3.4 million Christians in Myanmar and Christian influence within several political movements is very powerful. This is based on being predominant in areas which remain hostile to central forces based on past policies and ongoing military, political, and economic operations, which are aimed at crushing several mainly Christian ethnic groups (or Christian led groups).

On the World Watch Monitor (http://www.worldwatchmonitor.org) website it is stated by Vishal Arora that “Amid global euphoria over reforms in Burman-majority parts of Burma, life has changed little for more than 3 million Christians and other minorities left to suffer from one of the world’s longest running civil wars.”

“Headlines around the world hailed the induction on Wednesday (May 2) of opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi into parliament as the beginning of a new era in Burma, officially known as Myanmar. But for the 150,000 Internally Displaced People (IDP) living in eastern Karen state’s 4,000 IDP camps, life is still about landmine blasts, gun and mortar attacks, and the possibility of a final war between armed insurgents and the Burma army.”

Further down in the same article it states that “In predominantly Christian Kachin state, government troops have attacked KIA soldiers and civilians since a 17-year ceasefire broke down in June last year. The fighting has displaced over 75,000 people since then, according to the Kachin Development Networking Group.”

Therefore, it might be champagne and trade for some political and business leaders in America, China, India, Japan, and in other nations. However, on the ground it is a living hell in several parts of Myanmar for various minority Christian ethnic groups.

Like previously mentioned, it is very difficult for America and Japan, and other powerful democracies, because if they stand on the sidelines too much then China and other economic rivals will gain. Also, the geopolitical angle related to Myanmar for America, China, India and Japan is also extremely powerful. This reality needs to be weighed up against the many decades of economic and political discontent within the body politic of Myanmar. Therefore, is it really fine to do business deals in the knowledge that greater economic prosperity in Myanmar may be used against the various different mainly Christian ethnic groups which could be crushed?

This issue applies to a plethora of other nations. For example, in China it is clear that growing economic prosperity is also being aimed at changing the internal dynamics of mainly Buddhist Tibet and vast areas of West China where Islam predominates among the indigenous groups. It is a very fine balance and the same applies to countless other nations whereby minorities often suffer and become even more marginalized once major economic development takes place. After all, economic and growing prosperity in America and Australia during the very foundations of these nations meant that indigenous Native Americans and Aborigines would be crushed and marginalized. Given this reality, the perennial struggle between economic development, control of resources, modernization, and other forces, whereby various ethnic groups suffer greatly is now being played out in the modern world and this certainly applies to Myanmar.

Yet, in the opposite direction you also have the fear of a nation state unraveling based on ethnic and religious grounds. Therefore, the political and military elites in Myanmar are very worried about the right steps to take in order to preserve the territorial integrity of this nation. Also, from a Buddhist point of view, then various Islamic conquests crushed Buddhism in many parts of Asia and The Taliban even want to destroy every vestige of this faith in Afghanistan. Likewise, while Buddhist and Muslim clashes have hit the headlines in relation to Myanmar; it is clear that many massacres against Buddhists have taken place in the Chittagong Hill Tracts in Bangladesh and in southern Thailand. Sadly, the mass media often paints a very simple picture but many militant Buddhist monks look to history and the ongoing reality of what is happening to Buddhists in several nations; therefore, this increases their fear and loathing.

Myanmar therefore is beset with a plethora of challenges and the same applies to how major powers develop their strategy with this nation. Japan appears to want to expand because the BBC reports that “Mt Abe pledged about $500m (£330m) in new loans and wrote off $1.74bn of Burma’s debt to Japan, officials said.”

“Japan, a key donor to Burma, maintained trade ties with the country during its years of military rule.”

“Correspondents say Mr Abe’s visit – the first visit by a Japanese prime minister since 1977 – marks a further improvement in already warm relations.”

This follows on from President Obama who recently stated to President Thein Sein of Myanmar that “We want you to know that the United States will make every effort to assist you on what I know is a long, and sometimes difficult but ultimately correct path to follow.”

The leaders of America and Japan also have their eyes cast on China because while economic trade is welcomed it is clear that both nations are worried by the growing power of this nation. Therefore, both political leaders in America and Japan have to weigh up the geopolitical angle strongly and this also applies to India which is worried about the intentions of Beijing. All in all, the choices are very difficult either way but sadly for ethnic and religious groups on the ground their fate appears to be in the hands of powerful international nations and the real intentions of Thein Sein and other political leaders in Myanmar.

http://www.worldwatchmonitor.org/2012/05-May/article_1527548.html/

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-22673107

leejay@moderntkyotimes.com

http://moderntokyotimes.com

Hiroshi Saito and Sarah Deschamps

Modern Tokyo Times

The stylish American lifestyle fashion brand, Kate Spade, is focused on opening five stores in Japan by the middle of 2013 in relationship to the sister brand. Omotesando in Tokyo was selected earlier in March this year to become the flagship store in Asia for Kate Spade Saturday. Kate Spade Saturday is entering the Japanese market with such an advantage because of the Kate Spade brand being firmly established in Japan.

Osaka followed on because a new store was opened also in March this year shortly after the flagship store in Omotesando. The Osaka environment is extremely powerful both commercially and in the area of fashion because of many trendy districts like Namba, Umeda, Shinsaibashi and many others. Also, the closeness of Kobe to Osaka provides one enormous hub for Japanese and international commerce. Therefore, Kate Spade Saturday certainly picked the two economic powerhouses in Japan.

The Kate Spade Saturday brand will fit in well with the environment of Harajuku and Omotesando because these two amazing fashion districts naturally flow together. Harajuku is internationally famous for youth fashion and many subcultures which thrive in this trendy part of Tokyo. This reality fits in well with the amazing mix of colors which can be found at Kate Spade Saturday.

Also, the main street which links Harajuku and Omotesando provides a very bohemian vibe. More important, you have so many different fashion trends. This applies to kawaii culture; the buzzing fashion boutique 6%DokiDoki (6%DOKIDOKI) which fuses kawaii culture with chaotic punk based on adorable color schemes; American street style fashion in the backstreets of Omotesando; exquisite Japanese and international boutiques in Omotesando; independent vibes; mainstream fashion in and around Omotesando Hills; and an array of other styles. Therefore, Kate Spade Saturday will be rewarded for its lovely creativity and independent styles which come alive by amazing color schemes.

Kate Spade and the New York fashion angle certainly suits major cities in Japan which are home to the crème de la crème of Japanese and international brands. At the same time, you have very distinctive features of major cities like Tokyo, Osaka and Kobe. Kobe is sometimes overlooked but often many vibes enter this city first and then they impact within Japan. The strong bond of American fashion and culture is also extremely popular in Japan. This reality means that Kate Spade Saturday should suit the natural intensity of fashion within this amazing country.

The president of Kate Spade in Japan is Ayako Yanagisawa and she stated in Reuters that “Because the brand’s concept originated in Japan and we really wanted to make the brand global, we felt Tokyo was the perfect city to launch this brand.”

Theresa Canning Zest, the Kate Spade Saturday creative director, informed The Japan Times that “We have been here for more than 15 years. So the brand awareness and affinity is very strong here. Therefore, it made sense to launch another brand with the Kate Spade name in it here first.”

Lee Jay Walker gave guidance to both writers

http://www.katespade.com/ Kate Spade website

https://www.saturday.jp/ Kate Spade Saturday website in Japanese

leejay@moderntokyotimes.com

http://moderntokyotimes.com

Laura Leiva

Modern Tokyo Times

Leonardo DiCaprio and director Baz Luhrmann once again create a stunning adaptation of a classic story – this time The Great Gatsby, which takes place during the Roaring Twenties. Glitz, glamour and stunning visuals pull fans in from the opening credits and envelopes the audience in opulent locations, ornate fashion and hip soundtrack. The star-studded cast features Tobey Maguire, Carey Mulligan and Joel Edgerton in the co-starring roles.

The story of The Great Gatsby is told by Nick Carraway (Maguire), who reminisces about how met his illusive and mysterious neighbor, Jay Gatsby (DiCaprio). Staying in a sanatorium for treatment of anxiety and excessive alcoholism, Carraway’s doctor suggests working through his thoughts by writing his story down on paper, and as a formerly aspiring writer, Carraway starts his story at the beginning when he moved to New York from the Midwest and rents a small house among some of the grandest mansions on Long Island. Across the bay from his house live his cousin Daisy (Mulligan) and her husband, Tom (Joel Edgerton). After seeing lavish parties going on in the Gatsby house, Carraway receives a personal invitation by Mr. Gatsby to attend the next party. After the two meet, Carraway realizes that Gatsby wants him to set up an afternoon tea and invite Daisy so they can have a reunion after many years.

Daisy and Gatsby reconnect after years apart and begin a love affair. Gatsby tries to persuade Daisy to leave Tom, but she takes convincing and does not end up doing as she promised. During an outburst between Tom and Gatsby, Daisy realizes she loves Tom and it greatly upsets Gatsby, as all his money and possessions were gained in an attempt to win Daisy back. Tom leaves Daisy and Gatsby to drive back to Long Island and on the way, they strike and kill a woman with their car – Tom’s mistress. Gatsby tells Carraway that it was in fact Daisy driving the vehicle that struck the woman, but he intends to take the blame. Tom, who is devastated by the loss, tells the woman’s husband that Gatsby is the owner of the car. The husband comes to the conclusion that Gatsby not only killed his wife, but was also having an affair with her.

The next day, Gatsby waits for a phone call from Daisy saying she is leaving Tom. He goes for a swim and then hears the phone ring – as he picks it up and answers, he is shot and killed. Soon after, Carraway holds a funeral for Gatsby, but the only people who come pay their respects is the media – Daisy disappears with Tom without acknowledging the death of Gatsby. Disgusted by the people and lifestyle of those on the East Coast, Carraway moves back to the Midwest and checks in the sanatorium, where he writes his novel, The Great Gatsby.

This film was classic and modern – visual effects, cinematography and soundtrack created a unique take on this iconic story. DiCaprio stuns again with his effortless acting and the audience will love escaping into the Roaring Twenties for this fun, dramatic film.

http://thegreatgatsby.warnerbros.com/ The Great Gatsby

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