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(04/15/14 3:22am)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>If you are familiar with Claude Monet’s famous collection of paintings, “Water Lilies,” Giverny is the perfect daytrip from Paris to see Monet’s canvases come to life. The small village of Giverny is also home to an art museum featuring work by Impressionist artists, but is most famous for Monet’s home and gardens. Though Monet’s gardens have their own kind of beauty, as you walk through the village, it seems as though the entire area has been touched by Monet’s paintbrush. Flowers of every kind peek out from every corner, and long stretches of vines hug each home. The streets are full of strolling tourists, musicians singing and strumming along, and ice cream trucks cozied up on each corner.Walk a little deeper into the village, following the rows of greenery and flowers, and you will come across Monet’s home and gardens. Visitors can walk into his studio, kitchen and bedroom. The bright yellow walls of his dining room, patterned blue tiles in his kitchen and the amount of Japanese artwork that decorate the walls give visitors insight into the life of this famous Impressionist artist.The gardens seem to garner the most attention by far. There is one garden right outside Monet’s house with row after row of flowers, varying in species, color and size. The second garden can be reached through a small set of stairs near the entrance. It is home to the famous Japanese-style bridge spotted in Monet’s work. Here is where you see the canvas of water lilies come to life. Beginning around 1887, Giverny became a popular spot for many American Impressionist artists due to the presence of Monet — the overall tranquil atmosphere helped a little, too. anukumar@indiana.edu@AnuKumar23
(04/08/14 2:48am)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>One of the more entertaining stereotypes I have heard about the French is how, to Americans, most French people seem hipster. Of course, I wasn’t too surprised when I found out the French have their own way to classify the term “hipster.” They call hipsters “bobo,” short for “bourgeois bohemian.” Bourgeois describes the socioeconomic status of the label, while bohemian describes their free-minded, left-winged attitude. I’ve never been 100-percent sure exactly how one is or isn’t identified as a hipster, but there seems to be some basic characteristics most people agree on that fit the label. In America, the contemporary subculture that enjoys things ironically, chooses to listen to alternative or non-mainstream music and dresses in vintage or thrift-bought clothes is typically, at surface level, labeled as hipster. Though, the key characteristic most people seem to agree on is the fact that hipsters will never actually willingly identify with the label. The first time I heard the term “bobo” was in my language and culture class. Oddly enough, it was actually a full topic of conversation in class that day. French singer Renaud has a whole song solely describing this subculture of people. The song describes habits like living uptown or in a loft, having well-behaved kids who attend private school, and liking Japanese and Korean cinema. In the music video, a variety of people are represented in regard to gender, race and age. This made it clear the label defined a lifestyle and taste rather than a specific aesthetic. Meanwhile, in the United States, it usually only takes a pair of black square-framed glasses before you are pinned as a hipster. Of course, the pretentious and aloof attitude helps the label stick. Bobos in French culture appear to identify with an upper-class standing but adopt different political standings from their families. According to an article in the French cultural magazine Les Inrockuptibles, bobos have the cultural resources and education of the bourgeois but seek to distinguish themselves from the traditional, mainstream bourgeois. This description in some ways seems to ring true with the label in the United States as well. I have heard multiple people criticize those who shop at stores such as Urban Outfitters, seeking that vintage look while paying for the brand name quality and establishing a look that is perhaps considered “alternative” while still maintaining a certain quality standard. So, how exactly do you spot a bobo? Well, if you are looking for individuals with thick-framed glasses who read and dress “alternatively,” you’ll fail miserably. Mostly everyone in France tends to carry a magazine, newspaper or book. European fashion, in general, might be classified as “hipster” by American standards. A few times, when I have been dining at smaller, less-commercialized Indian restaurants, I was fairly certain I spotted a bobo or two. They had dreadlocks or headscarves, but did not seem to be native to a country where that would be the tradition. They carried on long conversations about French literature with their partners and seemed to have fairly carefree attitudes.It’s hard to put a finger on who exactly is a bobo, because it seems to be more of an overall attitude or lifestyle that is being described by the term, not just an aesthetic. And of course, it’s a social phenomenon free from a scientific, well-defined origin. So while the average French person might qualify as a hipster under American standards, be forewarned there is an entire subculture of individuals the French call bobos. anukumar@indiana.edu@AnuKumar23
(04/02/14 4:36am)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>Tucked away on Paris’s left bank, perched on cobblestone providing some quiet from the chatter of cafés nearby, is the bookstore Shakespeare and Company.Next to Notre Dame, Shakespeare and Company specializes in English-language literature. There are two separate shops, one with vintage and antiquarian books and the other with new books for sale, ranging from classics to contemporary releases. Shakespeare and Company serves as a Mecca of sorts for book lovers and writers alike.The setting alone is sure to make any bookworm giddy. Books of all genres fill every nook and cranny. Typewriters hide on top of desks and in little corners of the store. But it’s the history of writers who gathered here and its continued presence in Paris that makes it such a worthwhile stop for any tourist or visitor. An American expatriate, Sylvia Beach, initially established the bookstore in 1919 on rue Dupuytren. She later moved the store to rue de l’Odéon in 1922, where it remained until 1940. In the beginning, it was both a lending library as well as a bookstore. During this time, the store served as a meeting place for discussion, collaboration and the basic exchange of ideas and conversation for writers and artists of the Lost Generation. F. Scott Fitzgerald, Ernest Hemingway and Gertrude Stein were among the crowd of writers who frequented the bookstore.The original Shakespeare and Company was forced to close because of the German occupation of Paris in 1940 during World War II. Hemingway, at the end of the war, “liberated” the store, but it never officially reopened. Disguised with the name Le Mistral, American George Whitman opened another English bookstore on the left bank of Paris in 1951. Just as the original Shakespeare and Company had served as a focal point for the Lost Generation, this new location served as a focal point for many Beat Generation writers.After Beach passed away in 1962, Whitman changed the name of his store to Shakespeare and Company as a tribute to her original bookstore. Whitman’s daughter, Sylvia Whitman, now runs the store.Today, the store continues to run similarly, allowing young writers to work in the bookstore. There are daily and weekly events, such as readings, talks and discussions.Additionally, different festivals attract literary experts and students alike. Now, as aspiring writers make their way through the bookstore, they are likely to think of all the great authors who occupied the same space. As you cozy up in a corner, it’s funny to think William S. Burroughs might have been chatting with Allen Ginsberg in that same spot. anukumar@indiana.edu@AnuKumar23
(03/26/14 3:43am)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>In the past week, I’ve witnessed silver boards pop up all over Paris plastered with campaign posters. My host mom explained that Paris municipal elections occur this week.The elections are taking place in different cities across France, but for Paris, these elections will determine the city’s mayor along with the representatives for the 20 arrondissements, or districts, of the city. The first round of votes occurred Sunday, and the second round will happen this coming Sunday. The second round serves as a runoff. Only candidates that win an outright majority in the first round can claim their seat without a runoff. After Sunday’s elections, news sources are reporting that France’s conservative party, Union pour un Mouvement Populaire, and the ultranationalist, Front National, have made gains over the Socialist Party, Parti socaliste. The current president of France, Francois Hollande, belongs to the Socialist Party. Unlike the United States, France has a multi-party political system. The Socialist Party leads the left while the UMP party leads the right. But within the divisions of left and right exist other parties apart from the two consistent contenders. Europe Ecologie Les Verts, Green party, and Parti communiste français, Communist party, are also considered leftist. Parti de Gauche, Left Party, is considered to be an extreme left-wing party. Nouveau Centre is a right-winged party that has had a presence in recent elections. Front National is known to be the extreme right winged party in France. In France, people are noticeably more politically engaged. Press stands around Paris sell daily newspapers for both the right wing and the left wing, along with Le Monde and Le Parisien that don’t identify with either side. It’s common to engage in conversation about politics, even when it’s with someone you have just met. Every political occasion holds value to the French, even municipal elections, which typically don’t gain much attention in the United States. Voter turnout alone can speak for the politically engaged nature of the French. More than 80 percent of the population voted in their last presidential election. Currently, the race for mayor is a hot topic of conversation. Anne Hidalgo, of the Socialist Party, just took the lead against conservative rival Nathalie Kosciusko-Morizet after Sunday’s votes. Regardless of who wins, Paris will likely have its first-ever female mayor. This is a big step for women in government, who have routinely been missing in leadership positions. Both candidates have experience in government, and according to a New York Times article, see themselves as an inheritor of the Paris created by the current mayor Bertrand Delanoe.As different campaign posters continue to garner attention across the city and headlines continue to make predictions, I’m looking forward to see how the political climate in Paris will change after these municipal elections. anukumar@indiana.edu@AnuKumar23
(03/11/14 3:48am)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>When Parisians tire of the city, they often take weekend trips outside Paris. I decided to do the same this past weekend, just to breathe in some fresh country air.Most Americans are familiar with the Normandy region of France for its famous D-Day beaches, but the area contains many smaller towns with distinct architecture and history. Here are the places I visited.RouenFor history buffs, this is the town where Joan of Arc was burned at the stake. It was one of the most prosperous cities of medieval Europe. Walking through Rouen, it’s easy to notice a distinct style of architecture among the buildings. A bold striped pattern adorns most buildings, making the town seem as though it belongs in a storybook. The Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen is well known for its Gothic architecture. The detail and height of the cathedral are both distinct. HonfleurThe buildings and boats harboring the southern bank of the estuary of the Seine River resembles the scene in the Nyhavn district of Copenhagen. This picturesque town, full of buildings with slate-covered fronts, served as the setting of many paintings completed by famous artists, such as Claude Monet and Eugène Boudin. DeauvilleA resort town of sorts, Deauville is known for its beaches. It’s common to see tourists and natives alike stroll the boardwalk with an ice cream cone in hand or collecting seashells along the water. Coco Chanel’s first boutique opened in Deauville, and has set a trend for luxury shopping in the area. The town is also home to the Deauville American Film Festival, which was established in 1975. In correspondence with the festival, tourists can find names of famous American actors written along small fences dividing the changing rooms. Mont Saint-MichelWith more than 3 million visitors each year, Mont Saint-Michel is one of France’s most well known landmarks. The island, along with its bay, is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.The abbey from which the island draws its name is the most identifying landmark. The town was constructed reflecting the feudal society of the time, with the abbey and monastery situated at the top, followed by the great halls, then stores and housing. Lastly, the homes of fisherman and farmers were situated outside the base walls. Currently, the site functions as a tourist spot with restaurants and souvenir shops crammed next to one another on the winding, narrow streets leading up to the abbey. anukumar@indiana.edu@AnuKumar23
(03/07/14 4:21am)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>Within the borough of Christianhavn in the city of Copenhagen is Christiania, a walled commune. As you enter, a sign overhead reads, “You are now leaving the EU.” Murals cover walls and signs greet visitors, listing the laws of the self-proclaimed autonomous neighborhood. People don’t dare to reach for their phones — photos are strictly prohibited. There is not a single car in sight, just tourists blending in with locals wandering the narrow streets. The atmosphere is calm. Bonfires continue to burn, people wander in and out of small, hole-in-the wall cafes, and it’s clear there is a sense of community here, complete with its own flag and currency. The free town came to be in 1971 when locals climbed through fences guarding the site. They said they wanted a recreational area to serve as a playground for their children. In the same year, a newspaper article advertised abandoned military buildings and announced the proclamation of the free town.The newspaper succeeded in reaching the young population of Copenhagen during a time when there was a lack of affordable housing. In 2011, Christiania legally purchased the total area of 84 acres from the state, making the free town legal. Since then, the free town has been a point of controversy causing conflict between the community and the state. One of the main point of interest, which contributes to both Christiania’s popularity and controversy, is the thriving cannabis market. Along Pusher Street, visitors can see rows of vendors selling different forms of marijuana. While marijuana is strictly illegal in Denmark, it continues to be sold and used in Christiania. Authorities are reluctant and the trade continues to cause controversy because some believe concentrating the trade has prevented it from dispersing through society. “Hard drugs” such as heroin are banned. More than 900 people live in the free town today; they pay rent to the community and pay the state for water and electricity.The town contains restaurants, small shops, a concert venue and even a couple art galleries. It’s an unusual space, governed by its own common law. Even though police raids happen from time to time, Christiania continues to thrive. Step inside and follow its rules. Once you step out under the arch that reads, “You are now entering the EU,” you’ve left the free town of Christiania. In case you are curious, here are the nine rules that govern this community.No weapons, no hard drugs, no violence, no private cars, no biker’s colors, no bulletproof clothing, no sale of fireworks, no use of thunder sticks and no stolen goods. anukumar@indiana.edu@AnuKumar23
(02/25/14 3:04am)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>The streets are calmer, the crowds are smaller and the city seems sleepier. It’s Sunday in Paris.Unlike the United States, the customer does not always come first in Paris. Most restaurants, grocery stores and shopping centers all close or have shortened hours on Sundays. That’s right, no 24-hour Krogers. Though staring at an empty fridge on Sunday night can be inconvenient, it can also be challenging to figure out how to spend a Sunday in Paris.After my time here, I have come to realize Sundays are best saved for flânerie, or the act of strolling. The French noun “flâneur” translates to stroller, or lounger. The term first came about in the 19th century as a literary type. It became associated with the man of leisure or the urban explorer, essential to the streets of Paris. It might seem difficult to exercise this essential Parisian skill on a Sunday, but you just have to know where to look. MuseumsMost museums, including the Louvre and Musée d’Orsay, remain open on Sundays. Though those two have an entry cost, there are many museums that are free to enjoy.The Paris Modern Art Museum provides free admission to its permanent collection. The Musée Carnavalet, which illustrates Paris’ complex history, also has free admission to its permanent collection.Musée Cernuschi (an Asian art museum), Maison de Victor Hugo (Victor Hugo’s residence) and the Paris Police Museum are also on the list. Flea markets (marchés aux puces) Flea markets are the perfect place to wander aimlessly, but still manage to find a knick-knack or two.Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen is one of the most well-known flea markets in Paris, but smaller ones can be found throughout the city. I explored Marché Vernaison, which is a smaller division of Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen.I was able to find old vintage postcards with pictures of the Sacré-Coeur and the Arc de Triomphe for a euro each. It’s easy to wander for hours but walk out with gifts for just about anyone on your list. The MaraisMany quarters in Paris are fairly calm on a Sunday, but the Marais is bustling with people.It’s a great place to grab a falafel, walk around, shop a little or just take a seat at a local café.The historically Jewish quarter now is a prime location for fashion boutiques, thrift shopping (friperie) as well as some great restaurants. The area is also home to Victor Hugo’s home and the Musée Picasso. Follow columnist Anu Kumar on Twitter @AnuKumar23.
(02/18/14 3:47am)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>This past weekend, I was en route to see one of Paris’ most well-known monuments — la Basilique du Sacré-Coeur. Designed by French architect Paul Abadie, the basilica was constructed over a 39-year period in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries.As I made my way up the hill using the basilica as my landmark, I inadvertently became acquainted with the quarter known as Montmartre. Named after the hill it sits on, this quarter is filled with historic landmarks and winding uphill paths, managing to strike a balance between appearing touristic and authentically Parisian.During my walk, I came across Café des Deux Moulins, famous for its appearance in the 2001 French film “Amélie,” where the title character works as a waitress. The café doesn’t have any signs or markers indicating its claim to fame, so while people stopped to snap a photo, locals continued to dine.Further up the hill, the area becomes predominantly pedestrian as the streets narrow into cobblestone pathways. There is a mix between residential properties, restaurants, cafés and small shops. There are even small parks tucked between streets filled with families from the area.Small shops selling postcards sit alongside boutiques selling home goods, jewelry and clothing. Surprisingly enough, I even managed to stumble across an Indian clothing boutique called Diwali.Right by the basilica, there is a square featuring local landscape artists selling their work surrounded by cafés with plenty of outside seating. Street musicians and performers are circled by onlookers with crepes in hand. It was hard to imagine a scene more fit for a postcard — until I approached Sacré-Coeur. Before me stood the basilica and beyond me was Paris.An accordion performer, the buzz of different languages and the hum of a small trolley making its way back down the hill all mixed together in the background.From the highest point in the city, I saw Paris sprawled before me. From famous landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower to the cluster of anonymous buildings, the view of Paris left me awestruck. Nothing could have been more picturesque.— anukumar@indiana.edu
(02/11/14 3:34am)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>It’s no secret that Paris is home to some of the most impressive art collections in the world. But a visit to the Louvre can mean long lines and large crowds. Any art lover or museum go-er can also feel overwhelmed by the size of the museum. Musée d’Orsay boasts an impressive collection at a more comprehensible size, but everyday Parisians as well as tourists flock there as well. Musée de l’Orangerie serves as a great alternative to Paris’s two most popular art museums, the Louvre and the Musée d’Orsay. While it’s located near both, the crowd here never tends to be as large.L’Orangerie exhibits eight of Claude Monet’s “Water Lilies” murals. Divided into two rooms on the main level, visitors can see these canvases stretch from wall to wall. Having seen Monet’s pieces featured in various art museums as well as in the 2011 film “Midnight in Paris,” it was quite remarkable for me to see his most famous pieces of work in person. Each oval room features four canvases. With seating in the middle, it’s simple to sit back and take in each piece of work from a distance. Because of the comprehensible size of the collection, it’s easy to walk around and observe each canvas without feeling rushed either. Musée de l’Orangerie contains works from other impressionist and post-impressionist artists in addition to Monet’s murals. Works by Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Henri Matisse and Pablo Picasso, among others, are featured on the museum’s lower level.Visitors can view the museum’s entire collection in one to two hours, depending on how slowly or quickly one moves. After having attempted to visit the Louvre and feeling quickly overwhelmed by its size and the crowd of visitors, Musée de l’Orangerie served as a breath of fresh air. It serves as the perfect stop for art lovers who don’t have a full day to spend at a museum. Conveniently located near the Jardin des Tuileries and on the bank of the Seine river, visitors can enjoy a pleasant stroll afterwards as well. —anukumar@indiana.eduFollow columnist Anu Kumar on Twitter @AnuKumar23.
(02/03/14 10:04pm)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>Any major city offers quality people watching. But in order to see the greatest array of characters, you have to take public transportation. In Paris, it’s the Métro. The train line functions both underground as well as above ground, similar to train systems in major cities in the United States. As much as I love how efficient the metro is, and how I can get to any part of Paris without a car, the people watching is by far my favorite part. But here’s the catch: you can’t make eye contact with people in Paris. While it’s common to smile at someone in the U.S., even if that person is a stranger, it is simply not part of the culture in Paris. If by mistake you do end up making excessive eye contact with someone, be prepared to have a potential stalker. Eye contact is a way to express interest in a stranger, so unless you are ready to mingle, it’s highly recommended you stare at your feet while on the metro. The first time I rode the metro, I was staring at people constantly. Public transportation pulls people from every part of the city, as well as the suburbs, into one collective space. It provides a great sampling of Paris’ diversity. Of course, it didn’t take long for me to realize I was one of the few lost foreigners who hadn’t received the keep-your-eyes-to-yourself memo. Now, I stick to reading or listening to music as I slyly sneak a peak at the people around me every now and then.Even after adapting a more Parisian approach to riding the metro, I have witnessed an accordion player accompanied by a young boy singing gibberish, a Spanish couple singing “Stand by Me,” a woman running out of the train to relieve herself right on the platform as well as people spreading political propaganda. So, although it is in your best interest to keep to yourself while riding the metro, it certainly doesn’t take away from the characters you are sure to run into.— anukumar@indiana.eduFollow columnist Anu Kumar on Twitter @AnuKumar23.
(01/27/14 9:32pm)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>It was a cool Paris afternoon filled with a steady bustle of people on the streets despite the lack of sunshine. As I walked along the streets of Paris, closer to the Seine river and the Notre Dame, I heard a steady chant of voices. Pushing through the crowd, I encountered a protest. Fliers were quickly put in my hand, and I was surrounded by signs. One group spoke about environmental concerns while the other advocated to free Palestine.We were warned during our orientation that the Parisians treat protests and political activism as a sport, but even knowing that, the number of people and range of issues involved was still surprising.The following protest I ran into was by far the most impressive. It made international headlines. AP reported, “Thousands criticize French leader in Paris Protest.” France 24 reported, “Thousands take part in Paris ‘Day of Anger’ targeting President Hollande.” Walking near the Bastille, I began to see armed French officers, fully equipped with bulletproof vests and guns. The numbers grew with the sound of chanting. Painted signs advocated for a multitude of issues. Jan. 26, 2014: Un jour de colère, a day of anger. I took a seat at a local café and decided to observe the action unfold. The police were aligned along the sidewalk, ready to take action as protesters continued to let their voices be heard in the pouring rain. In a second, officers with the title “gendarmerie” labeled on their vests dashed to the center of scene. Protests are common enough in France there is a military force specifically equipped to handle police duties among citizen populations. Essentially, they have an entire unit just for protests. As I attempted to eavesdrop, hoping to catch a word or two of the action, a couple of Americans commented on the common occurrence of protests in Paris, but noted this one seemed to be getting more attention than others. TV crews, additional police teams and observers continued to gather. Within seconds, I heard distant booms, echoing back in my direction. One of the American women sitting at the café commented, “It sounds like tear gas.” The passionate mass of protesters and the officers responding to them was contrasted by the nonchalance of bystanders going about their day. This was normal.In the United States, most protests I have observed concern individual rights such as gay marriage or the right to abortion. Demonstrators during the day of anger protested broader topics concerning the masses, such as high rates of unemployment and high taxes, similar to the demands made by the Occupy Wall Street movement in the U.S.Contrastingly, the protesters that were a part of the day of anger were not only young, but were a sample of the broad age range in France. All were united against the current government under President Francois Hollande. Eventually the protesters were hushed and the area returned to its quiet Sunday afternoon bustle, but something tells me this certainly won’t be the last French protest I run into. Follow columnist Anu Kumar on Twitter @AnuKumar23.
(01/23/14 6:30pm)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>First impressions are stressful when it comes to meeting people. Saying the right thing, not having food stuck in your teeth, appearing to be seemingly put together — it becomes quite the hassle. But, when you meet a city for the first time, there is no pressure.Paris opened up her streets to me and I, in return, did not have to worry about impressing her. Arriving at my home for the semester, tucked away in the 17th arrondissement, it was a surreal feeling to see sights I had only seen on postcards. Needless to say, Paris has me swooning for more. Of course, first impressions are often followed by the getting-to-know-you phase, which at times is less romantic than the initial meeting. That moment hit as I got down from the cab, attempting to find a gap between tightly-packed cars in order to reach the sidewalk and avoid oncoming traffic. That challenge was followed up by the “how many large suitcases and moderately-sized humans can you fit into an elevator” game. But, it’s Paris. Any little hiccup in the day was triumphed by the fact that I can see the Arc de Triomphe from my apartment. The gorgeous window displays and packed market spaces easily beat out the rainy weather. Every Parisian smoker exhaling a puff your way can be deflected by focusing on the sound of French conversation. Even a confusing metro map can be decoded and provide clarity. Despite my initial anxiety of having to carry on a conversation, I have successfully stumbled through an entire day of speaking solely in French with my host. Native French speakers, as I’ve witnessed it, appreciate the attempt. Even the cab driver noted, “Speak French, it’s good for you.”As people, we’re meant to adapt, to be mobile and overcome what is foreign to us. At the end of the day, I am willing to be a little lost and sound like a foreigner if it means I am within walking distance from one of the most famous French monuments.I think Paris and I will get along just fine. Follow columnist Anu Kumar on Twitter @AnuKumar23.
(01/14/14 4:39am)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>The days leading up to leaving are always an interesting mix of feeling both prepared and completely frazzled. In about a week, I’ll be in Paris, France, a place I feel like I understand.There are countless films, pieces of art and music, and themed restaurants that ooze an idealistic picture of romance, beauty and sophistication. Having grown up on the eastern side of the world, Western culture feels foreign to me. Granted, I’ve lived in the U.S. for 11 years, but because my childhood was based in Japan, and defined by an Indian upbringing, the eastern world automatically feels more familiar at times. Anticipating the unfamiliar, I turned to the Internet. I learned about the arrondissements, or districts, of Paris, each with its own vibe and flavor. Researching popular restaurants, cafes, museum free days and free Wi-Fi spots has put me more at ease.Of course, the language barrier can’t be ignored. I have studied French since I was in high school. I figured I should just take the plunge into the I-need-to–have-a-regular-conversation-with-this-real-French-person stage of learning a language. Here’s to hoping my accent doesn’t give me away too quickly. As I stare at my large suitcase and think about how I am going to fit four months of my life into a neat package, I am looking forward to an adventure. To people watching on park benches, to wandering without a map and awkward, stumbling conversations in French. I hope to learn a thing or two about the Parisians, the city’s landmarks and hidden treasures, and overall sense of culture.I hope you stick around to see the adventure unfold. Follow columnist Anu Kumar on Twitter @AnuKumar23.
(01/13/14 7:53pm)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>The days leading up to leaving are always an interesting mix of feeling both prepared and completely frazzled. This feeling eases with time and lessens in intensity with experience. In about a week, I’ll be in Paris, France. In some sense, I feel like I understand Paris. There are countless films, pieces of art and music, and a fair number of themed restaurants that ooze an idealistic picture of romance, beauty and sophistication. Having grown up on the eastern side of the world, Western culture feels foreign to me. Granted, I’ve lived in the U.S. for 11 years, but because my childhood was based in Tokyo, Japan, and defined by an Indian upbringing, the eastern side of the world automatically feels more familiar at times. Anticipating the unfamiliar, I turned to the Internet. I learned about the arrondisements, or districts, of Paris, each with its own vibe and flavor. Researching popular restaurants, cafes, museum free days and free Wi-Fi spots has put me a bit more at ease, though every Parisian fashion blog has me questioning the quality of my wardrobe. Of course, the language barrier can’t be ignored. I have studied French since I was in high school. I figured I should just take the plunge into the I-need-to–have-a-regular-conversation-with-this-real-French-person stage of learning a language. Here’s to hoping my accent doesn’t give me away too quickly, and I don’t fall into a manhole because I failed to read a sign. But if I do, there’s an app to help. As I stare at my large black suitcase and think about how I am going to fit four months of my life into a neat package, I am looking forward to an adventure. To people watching on park benches, to wandering without a map and awkward, stumbling conversations in French. I hope to learn a thing or two about the Parisians, the city’s landmarks and hidden treasures, and overall sense of culture.I hope you stick around to see the adventure unfold. Follow columnist Anu Kumar on Twitter @AnuKumar23
(04/29/13 2:24am)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>State lawmakers released a budget proposal late last week. The highlights of the budget are below.Tax Relief and Job Creation
(04/25/13 2:44am)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>Bloomington will be celebrating the elderly during the month of May through the third annual Creative Aging Festival. “Bloomington is an arts destination and a retirement destination, and we’re passionate about allowing older adults to express themselves,” said Julie Hill, chairwoman for the commission on aging. The festival will run for the entirety of the month, featuring creative aging exhibits. Events such as a dance for Parkinson’s, art exhibits and a senior expo with free health screenings will be featured.The event aims to highlight the artistic talents of older adults, promote intergenerational understanding, share traditions and stories and increase awareness about the value of creative engagement to adult health and well-being, Hill said.Sue Owens, program specialist for the community and family resources department, said the event has expanded in the past three years.“It has grown in the number of organizations participating, the number of people involved, the number of partners, and we are growing in sponsorships and contributors as well,” Owens said. Hill said the festival had about 27 events its first year and has 42 events this year. “During the first year, we learned that artists weren’t sure how to adapt for the older population,” Hill said. She said the second year of the festival focused more on developing intergenerational relationships through events targeting staff development and workforce development.“We want to showcase the talents and skills of older artists in the community but also promote intergenerational relationships,” Owens said. “We want seniors in the community to share their experiences in life with younger generations.”Hill said because this generation is moving into a longevity revolution. In the next 15 to 20 years, the world can expect a shift from a more dominant young population to one that is older.“It’ll have a significant impact in so many different ways that we can’t fully begin to realize,” Hill said. Aging is also seen in a negative light, where people see retirement as “going away,” Hill said. “We see this as a great opportunity to start shifting public opinion about aging into a more positive perspective,” Hill said. Owens said it is important to recognize the seniors in the Bloomington community.“We are continuing to morph and change,” Hill said. “As our community prepares for a shift in the population, we just felt like this was a great way to be proactive and to promote wellness.”
(04/25/13 12:18am)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>Bloomington will be celebrating the elderly during the month of May by hosting the third annual Creative Aging Festival. “Bloomington is an arts destination and a retirement destination, and we’re passionate about allowing older adults to express themselves,” said Julie Hill, chairwoman for the commission on aging. The festival will run for the entirety of the month, featuring creative aging events and exhibits. Events such as a dance for Parkinson’s, art exhibits and a senior expo with free health screenings will be featured during the month.Hill said the event was inspired by Ireland’s national Bealtaine Festival, which happens during the month of May and celebrates creativity as people age.The event aims to highlight the artistic talents of older adults, promote intergenerational understanding through dialogue, share traditions and stories and increase awareness about the value of creative engagement to adult health and well-being, Hill said.Sue Owens, program specialist for the community and family resources department, said the event has significantly expanded in the past three years.“It has grown in the number of organizations participating, the number of people involved, the number of partners, and we are growing in sponsorships and contributors as well,” Owens said. Hill said the festival had about 27 events its first year and has 42 events this year. “During the first year, we learned that artists weren’t sure how to adapt for the older population,” Hill said. She said the second year of the festival focused more on developing intergenerational relationships through more educational events targeting staff development and workforce development.“We want to showcase the talents and skills of older artists in the community but also promote intergenerational relationships,” Owens said. “We want seniors in the community to share their experiences in life with younger generations.”Hill said because this generation is moving into a longevity revolution, in the next 15 to 20 years the world can expect a shift from a more dominant young population to one that is older.“It’ll have a significant impact in so many different ways that we can’t fully begin to realize,” Hill said. Aging is also seen in a negative light, where people see retirement as “going away,” Hill said. “We see this as a great opportunity to start shifting public opinion about aging into a more positive perspective,” Hill said. Owens said it is important to recognize the seniors in the Bloomington community, and the month of May is the time to do so.“We are continuing to morph and change,” Hill said. “As our community prepares for a shift in the population, we just felt like this was a great way to be proactive and to promote wellness.”
(04/25/13 12:16am)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>Bloomington will be celebrating the elderly during the month of May by hosting the third annual Creative Aging Festival. “Bloomington is an arts destination and a retirement destination, and we’re passionate about allowing older adults to express themselves,” said Julie Hill, chairwoman for the commission on aging. The festival will run for the entirety of the month, featuring creative aging events and exhibits. Events such as a dance for Parkinson’s, art exhibits and a senior expo with free health screenings will be featured during the month.Hill said the event was inspired by Ireland’s national Bealtaine Festival, which happens during the month of May and celebrates creativity as people age.The event aims to highlight the artistic talents of older adults, promote intergenerational understanding through dialogue, share traditions and stories and increase awareness about the value of creative engagement to adult health and well-being, Hill said.Sue Owens, program specialist for the community and family resources department, said the event has significantly expanded in the past three years.“It has grown in the number of organizations participating, the number of people involved, the number of partners, and we are growing in sponsorships and contributors as well,” Owens said. Hill said the festival had about 27 events its first year and has 42 events this year. “During the first year, we learned that artists weren’t sure how to adapt for the older population,” Hill said. She said the second year of the festival focused more on developing intergenerational relationships through more educational events targeting staff development and workforce development.“We want to showcase the talents and skills of older artists in the community but also promote intergenerational relationships,” Owens said. “We want seniors in the community to share their experiences in life with younger generations.”Hill said because this generation is moving into a longevity revolution, in the next 15 to 20 years the world can expect a shift from a more dominant young population to one that is older.“It’ll have a significant impact in so many different ways that we can’t fully begin to realize,” Hill said. Aging is also seen in a negative light, where people see retirement as “going away,” Hill said. “We see this as a great opportunity to start shifting public opinion about aging into a more positive perspective,” Hill said. Owens said it is important to recognize the seniors in the Bloomington community, and the month of May is the time to do so.“We are continuing to morph and change,” Hill said. “As our community prepares for a shift in the population, we just felt like this was a great way to be proactive and to promote wellness.”
(04/23/13 2:57am)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>The Indiana Department of Child Services released a report Monday revealing instances of unemployment, low income, substance abuse and domestic violence in instances citing child abuse.The DCS released the latest child-fatality data during a news conference at the Statehouse on Monday. The DCS reviewed at least 292 child deaths during the state’s 2011 fiscal year, varying in causes, according to a news release. Causes ranged from medical conditions to drowning, unsafe sleeping conditions in the home, abuse and neglect. Unsafe sleeping conditions accounted for 82 percent of reported fatalities, according to the report. The report also specifically cited 40 child deaths directly resulting from abuse or neglect. Among those children who died from abuse or neglect, a pattern of one or more significant stress factors were found in many cases.Stress factors include unemployment, low income, substance abuse or domestic violence. In some cases, multiple stress factors were found in a single home.“When you have a child, and particularly a small child, left in the care of someone with no emotional bond with the child, with low to no parenting skills and managing multiple stressors, tragedy can happen in an instant,” DCS Chief of Staff John Ryan said in the release. The report also found a pattern of child deaths at the hands of parents’ intimate partners, which is a trend that has continued from year to year. DCS local officers conducted an informal inquiry with law enforcement agencies across the state in late 2012 to discover their observations on the most significant risk to child safety in their communities. Substance abuse was the most commonly cited risk to children’s safety in the home, according to the release. According to the release, of the children who died from abuse, 48 percent were younger than the age of 1 years old. Of the neglect deaths, 38 percent were younger than the age of 1 years old as well. The DCS aims to help tens of thousands of families each year and filed more than 10,600 child-protection court cases in 2011. “Our infants and toddlers are often isolated at those ages, and there aren’t as many eyes to see them as school-age children,” Ryan said. “And smaller children take a lot of supervision, care and patience — which may be too much to ask of someone with low or poor parenting skills or dealing with multiple stress factors.”In order to prevent even more deaths, DCS Director Mary Beth Bonaventura said the agency will take a “360-degree” look at the problem, according to the release. “What we’re seeing is that the problems leading to this epidemic are bigger than DCS can tackle alone,” Bonaventura said in the release. “We need the help of these bodies to get to the root of these problems in communities across Indiana and to get agencies working together and investing together to combat many of these stress issues before they escalate into abuse or neglect — or worse.”Bonaventura said she will be taking the abuse and neglect report data to the Indiana Statewide Child Fatality Review Committee and the newly established Commission on Children, according to the release.“We need all Hoosiers to remember that they are first responders when it comes to reporting child abuse and neglect,” Bonaventura said. “If you see something, please say something.”
(04/18/13 3:59am)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>In order to combat the 10th leading cause of death among Americans of all ages, the city of Bloomington will have “Suicide Prevention from Different Perspectives” from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Saturday at City Hall. Bloomington’s Community and Family Resources Department and the Area 10 Agency on Aging are sponsoring the program. “We wanted to partner together to create a program, and while discussing different issues, we thought suicide was a issue that affected all age groups,” said Nancy Woolery, health projects manager for the Community and Family Resources Department. Woolery said the program is designed to raise awareness and provide information about suicide prevention to friends, family and caregivers. Each year, more than 34,000 people commit suicide and more than 376,000 people with self-inflicted injuries are treated in emergency rooms, according to a news release.“Suicide affects people of all age groups and backgrounds,” said Alesha Rogers, public health intern for Area 10 Agency on Aging. Rogers said the event features presentations by health professionals who are knowledgeable about suicide prevention, awareness and advocacy. Woolery said the event is designed to address the multiple perspectives of suicide and is geared to all audiences, including youth, middle-aged adults and the elderly. “The elderly have thoughts of suicide, too,” Woolery said. “Many have lost a spouse, are lonely or have friends who have already passed away.”Woolery said in addition to having speakers, time will be allotted for questions and answers.“It’s important to address the issue from the viewpoint of a family member who has lost someone, but also as a professional, who has to deal with a client who has committed suicide,” Rogers said. Along with a variety of speakers, the event will feature different advocacy and service groups. Woolery said booths will be set up in the atrium of City Hall, featuring local Bloomington groups like the Coalition for Suicide Prevention, Survivors of Suicide and the Out of the Darkness campaign. The event is free and does not require registration.