Salty America, Sustainable Mineral Dye, Lexus GX #214 / June 16, 2023 (Friday) / Confidential |
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After adding my 17-year-old daughter, who recently got her driver's license, to the insurance, the previously $1,600 premium every six months suddenly jumped to an additional $300 per month. Considering the gas prices close to $5 per gallon and the interest rates ranging from 6.5% to 11.17% for purchasing a new car, my daughter has decided to drive my K5 for the time being.
Not only are dining expenses higher due to added tipping, but there are also concerns about the rising costs of delivery food that we used to rely on during the pandemic. Similar to the situation in Korea, where there is growing social tension due to inflated delivery fees, there is ongoing discussion in the United States about implementing a minimum wage for delivery charges. In "New York," they have made the decision to pay online delivery platform workers, such as Uber Eats and Doordash, a minimum wage of $17.96 and will begin implementing the policy next month. However, I'm skeptical about whether this policy truly benefits the delivery drivers. Until now, these platforms have classified drivers as independent contractors (1099) instead of employees (W2), which has allowed them to evade the obligation of providing a minimum wage. Consequently, restaurants deduct a 30% commission and only give drivers around $2 per delivery, placing heavy reliance on tips.
If a guaranteed minimum wage is enforced, it's evident that delivery fees will further increase. Currently, when ordering food, we already have to pay delivery fees, taxes, service charges, California driver benefits fee, delivery charges, and tips. What additional fees might be added? With the Federal Reserve already taking measures to control inflation by raising interest rates, consumers are already feeling the economic strain.
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While not reaching the level of the "Kakao beggars" in Korea, resourceful individuals in the United States find ways to make their living expenses stretch further.
They practice techniques such as:
- "Sad Desk Lunch": Bringing homemade lunches to work instead of purchasing meals.
- Flipping furniture for profit: Refurbishing and reselling discarded furniture.
- Purchasing second-hand clothing.
- Cutting their own hair at home.
- Reducing the frequency of showers.
- Driving less to save on gas.
- Splitting meals into multiple servings.
Drawing from my 24 years of living in Korea, I too have embraced the mindset of cutting expenses whenever possible. Today, I downsized my Netflix subscription from four users to two and canceled the Spotify subscription that my kids enjoyed. Let's all strive for prosperity!
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🤗 Newletter Summary
01. Sustainability Trend - G-Star and Vollebak's Dyeing with Soil and Minerals
02. Automotive Weekly - 3rd Generation Lexus GX |
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Sustainable Trend - G-Star RAW and Vollebak turn to minerals for earth-friendly dyes
Throughout history, humans have sourced pigments from soil and stones, as seen in cave paintings of Maros-Pangkep and Renaissance frescoes. Now, clothing brands G-Star RAW and Vollebak are embracing this mineral heritage by utilizing the earth's resources to dye fabrics.
Vollebak introduces their Mineral T-Shirts, available in three shades, each dyed with a distinct material obtained from Italy's mineral deposits and earth: hematite, celadonite, and volcanic soil. By adopting garment dyeing, where the entire garment is dyed after assembly, the brand achieves softer fabrics and colors while avoiding harsh chemicals. This approach presents a more sustainable alternative to conventional dyeing methods. |
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G-Star's 'Dyed by Minerals' collection also utilizes pigments derived from volcanic rocks and soil. Incorporating a cold-dyeing technique, this collection saves energy and imparts a vintage aesthetic to the garments. The combination of this method with fabric composed of 75% regenerative and 25% recycled cotton exemplifies G-Star's holistic approach to resource-efficient manufacturing.
Fashion brands are gradually incorporating environmental responsibility throughout their production processes, responding to the growing consumer demand for sustainable products with compelling origin stories. G-Star and Vollebak serve as examples of this trend, showcasing innovative approaches that align with modern environmental standards.
To inspire other brands seeking to follow suit, consider exploring historical practices that can be combined with contemporary environmental standards to create marketable and environmentally friendly solutions. By delving into the past, it's possible to uncover ancient techniques and traditions that can be reimagined and adapted to meet today's sustainability requirements. This fusion of historical wisdom with modern innovation has the potential to offer unique and appealing alternatives to the market.
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Automotive Weekly- Lexus GX
Lexus has unveiled the third-generation GX, which has undergone a full redesign after 14 years. The off-road optimized GX, set to be available for sale from early 2024, showcases a body-on-frame design based on the GA-F platform. Starting at $60,000, the GX offers a rugged off-roading vehicle with six trims (Premium, Premium Plus, Luxury, Luxury Plus, Overtrail, and Overtrail Plus) and a staggering 11 color options, making it a challenging decision for those prone to indecisiveness. Factory-fitted features include the preferred 18-inch wheels and 33-inch tires favored by off-roaders.
With its purpose-built design that subtly exudes luxury, the GX aims to be a competitor to the G-Wagen while maintaining the distinctive Lexus styling with a futuristic and military-inspired twist.
The front end, characterized by horizontal and vertical lines, presents a clean appearance, yet it incorporates various elements that create a complex look. Particularly noteworthy is the grille's lower section, where the body part extends above the grille, reminiscent of vent insert designs seen in industrial aesthetics.
The discreet L-shaped headlights maintain the Lexus heritage while appearing slightly toned down compared to previous versions.
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The side profile highlights the design elements effectively. The wheel arches present a sleek and cohesive appearance without unnecessary protrusions. The well-defined shoulder line seamlessly connects with the C-pillar and extends all the way to the roof. Experiencing the design in person, rather than relying solely on photographs, would be captivating, as it is likely to create a striking impression.
The lower cladding is robustly designed, lending a sense of solidity while reducing visual bulk. (An impressive outcome!)
One notable feature is the unconventional and inventive embellishments that deviate from the conventional greenhouse design. The A-pillars, adorned with body-colored accents, undergo a subtle transition with the addition of a silver strip before merging with the roof and black loop. The incorporation of the body color A-pillar on the inner side of the black element, separating the shoulder line, adds a distinctive three-dimensional quality to the overall design. |
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The design towards the later part is unexpected to the extent that it prompts the question "what is going on?" However, it effectively carries on the military-inspired theme. It makes me wonder if a neater impression could have been achieved by positioning the wipers at the top.
Although full-size light bars are losing popularity, this model presents an impressive and balanced alternative. Rather than opting for exaggerated exhaust designs commonly seen in off-roading vehicles, it modestly places the exhaust beneath the rear bumper, resulting in a clean and appealing look. (It gives the impression of a spare tire tucked inside.) The silver cladding showcased at the front is thoughtfully separated at the back, offering a pleasing harmony without being monotonous. |
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The Lexus GX, recently unveiled, showcases a design that is both sleek and functional, with an overall interior characterized by clean lines. One notable feature that stands out is the 12.3-inch gauge cluster, which is elegantly recessed in a cave-like shape, providing optimal visibility without glare. The 14-inch infotainment screen seamlessly integrates essential functions, offering a well-rounded user experience. Additionally, the vent extending to the A-pillar not only evokes a military-inspired aesthetic but also highlights the unique character of Lexus.
I am eager to see the actual appearance of the new Lexus GX and take the opportunity to review it once again, as it has the potential to ignite excitement among off-roading enthusiasts. |
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Allow me to introduce GHPC (Grindhard Plumbing Corporation), a YouTube channel operating in the customization paradise of the United States. Known for their unconventional modifications, they specialize in creating transport contraptions that are considerably smaller than the original models. One particularly fascinating product is their mini-boat, which bears a striking resemblance to a jet ski but has been skillfully downsized to accommodate two adult males. Its lightweight design allows for easy mounting on an SUV roof and effortless portability. GHPC even offers assembly kits on their website, priced at approximately ten million Korean won, enabling individuals to enjoy practical and thrilling activities in their everyday lives. |
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Kia Design Center America
Written by Jenna Chwee
Email: jchwee@hatci.com
101 Peters Canyon Rd. Irvine, CA 92606
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