Aplaus, the local lifestyle tabloid, was back with Aplaus Fiesta 2009. They had the first fiesta two years ago at atrium Sun Plaza. This time around it was held at Griya Dome Convention Centre, from 14th – 16th August.

I dropped by on Friday night after the big heavy rain, cause I was going KL on the Saturday. The place was a bit dim that I hardly saw any sign board about the festival and didn’t even know where was the parking entrance.

The futuristic city.

This festival was a collaboration between Aplaus team and the communities of art and hobby in Medan. Besides the showcase of various artistic stuffs, there was lots of activities too. From workshops to hip hop dance. From BMX activity to skateboard activity. But since I went there at night, I only saw the skateboard ramps at the outdoor area. Too bad I couldn’t come on the last day of the festival, else it would be more fun and happening.

Good thing that they have rubbish bin there. Not that I smoke though.

Feels free to draw and express your creativity on the wall.

The handmade heaven. The highlight would be the towel craft, which I like very very much and would love to pick the skill soon.

The wishes tree.

Full report about Aplaus Fiesta 2009 can be read here.

Upon reaching Indonesia?s Presidential Election Day, lots of people was getting this scare-if-there-would-be-riot kinda feeling. Or it could be just my neighbors whom felt so. But, the election day went smooth. Pfiuh.

In one day time, the quick count result was out and SBY, our current President, has the highest point (more than 50%). There was no riot, demonstration, whatsoever. Pfiuh.

Now, it is almost 10 days since the election day and we are living in peace. NOT! Somebody decided to break the peace and the result was the huge explosion at JW Marriott and Ritz Carlton, Jakarta, this morning. Great choice of places! And right timing cause MU was scheduled to come to Jakarta on tomorrow.

This is not the first explosion for JW Marriott. I remember they experienced once back in 2003 (if not mistaken) and wtf they never learn from experience is it?

Whoever did this, whatever your motive is, you have done a ‘very good’ job in spoiling this country (image, reputation, the people, everything). Sigh. *zip mouth to prevent from saying unnecessary thing*

I went to vote today. Here’s the proof (refer to the picture below – look at the ink print on my little finger). But too bad Starbucks doesn’t create another election’s promotion like on last parliament election.

Anyway, we have 3 pair of candidates. And based on quick count, our current Indonesia President – SBY is on the top position holding more than 50% voices. Looks like he will be the President again for the next 5 years, just like his campaign “Lanjutkan” (read: continue).

Taken from Indonesia Memilih.

But, who will be the next President and Vice President doesn’t really matter to me. Not like they can make any huge changes towards this country.

Now, put aside the politic stuff, I’m going back to my shell and work. I saw lots of good deal at wholesale liquidators site. But I only have a pair of hands, how am I going to wear the wholesale watches? Duh.

Aha, finally we have a creative exhibition in Medan! *hooray hooray* The “Creative Avenue” event, showcasing the design and advertising portfolio of Lumut Communications, was held from 5th to 7th June at Grand Swiss-belHotel.

I went there last night before headed for dinner with family. The ambiance was great. The way they arranged everything was wonderful, notice how they use the neon glass (whatever it is) to showcase the design. Overall, it’s a very inspiring creative showcase.

And, it is (or should be) an eye-opening experience for people, whom doesn’t come from (graphic) design and advertising background. Cause the existence of (graphic) design and advertising isn’t really that powerful in Medan, although we have tonnes of billboard and banners in the town. That will be another story on another post.

Anyway, there is two things lack from the showcase. First, there was no promotional items for the visitors. You see, on the exit way, there was a table and guest book. I was expecting to receive promotional tote bags or pens (lame, I know, but better than nothing) or other creative thing, but no. I forget whether they handed some off-topic-postcard to my brother or nothing at all. Not that I so wanted to get a free stuff, but hey, a promotional item will make visitors remember about your event, no? Second, the showcase area and the number of portfolio was not huge enough. I expected to see more actually.

Picture of the day. The auntie at the left hand side is not part of us though.

Story behind the picture: waiting for 5 minutes and the lift hasn’t reached the level yet, my eyes looked at the lift’s door which was covered with huge mirror, took out the digicam and snapped.

Yeap, finally the election day (of parliament members) is here.

The crowded TPS ( Tempat Pemungutan Suara)

Another one, not so crowded

Four papers, four boxes

Nah, here is the proof that I did go for voting.

Anyway, Starbucks comes out with this campaign “If You Care Enough to Vote, We Care Enough to Give You A Free Cup Of Coffee“, where we will get a free cup of coffee (heard that it’s black coffee) from 12-5pm today if we show the proof (little finger with ink) that we already go voting.

I hate coffee. Can I get a chocolate drink or Milo instead? Hehe..