‘Better City, Better Life,’ representing the common wish of the whole humankind for a better living in future urban environments.” Or does it mean, “the common wish of world communists to control man’s environment?” Posted on 03/06/2010 9:01:59 AM PST by John Leland 1789
The Shanghai World Expo 2010 opens in May
According to the expo website, “The theme of Expo 2010 is ‘Better City, Better Life,’ representing the common wish of the whole humankind for a better living in future urban environments.” Or does it mean, “the common wish of world communists to control man’s environment?”
“Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao said the upcoming World Expo will promote exchange and showcase the latest achievements of civilizations around the globe.” –that the Chinese can copy and steal?
“The emblem, 
depicting the image of three people-you, me, him/her holding hands together, symbolizes the big family of mankind.” Or is it really to depict the one child policy? There are plenty of people outside of China who also believe that the “big family of mankind” should be nothing but one child (or less) families. But it gets more humorous than that . . . .
The official web site for the expo tells us a little about the mascot for the event: 
“Created from a Chinese character meaning people, the mascot "Haibao" embodies the character of Chinese culture. Large Haibao figures are found all around the city, some on large bases 
with the following words:
“Haibao is the mascot of World Expo 2010 Shanghai China. It is created in the image of humanity and expresses our capacity to create wonderful lives and enjoy the fruits of our work. The color blue represents the ocean, the future and technology, all defining elements of the city of Shanghai and reflecting the theme of World Expo 2010 Shanghai China—‘Better City, Better Life.’” 
What humored me is that “Haibao” looks like nothing more than a new Gumby. 
If you are at least my age (50s) you can probably remember the first Gumbies and the first television Gumby cartoons. 
Gumby merchandise has been produced by Jesco, Colorforms, Trendmasters, and Medicom. 
Well, at least now we know what the “image of humanity” looks like—Haibao and Gumby. You now have the Chinese word on it! No wonder we’re in such a mess—just a bunch of Gumbies we are! And the Chinese have just told us what “embodies the character of Chinese culure”—Gumby! Or, something that looks like a Gumby.
Since the Shanghai Expo is not just for children, and is to highlight technology from around the world, I would have thought the Chinese could have been more creative than this.
I’m probably going to the Expo in June. I’ll bring back a few Gumbys. :)
I remember Gumby and I’m not yet half of 50.
Actually, I think you can still buy Gumbies. You’re right. But I remember when the first ones showed up. Now doesn’t that make someone special?! Ha!
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