Last year when the Gap came out with their (red) campaign, the first word that popped into my head, was insu(red)/uninsu(red). They did a few kind of ironic shirts like bo(red) and ti(red), but I wondered why they didn't make an uninsu(red) shirt.

With insurance looking like it's going to be the touch point for the 2008 Presidential election, I thought that making these shirts could hopefully get some uninsured kids to think about their need for health insurance, perhaps even the need for universal health care.

I ran into Jeff Staple of the Reed Space at a party and told him about my idea. He thought that it was a good idea too. It took some time, but starting today the shirts will be available at the Reed Space. We hope that they will start a much-needed dialogue.

The Reed Space
151 Orchard Street
New York, NY 10002 map
tel. +1 212 253 0588

In the latest issue of the funny and offensive Duke Magazine, the all-guns-blazing Sydney kids behind the fashion bent publication launch well-argued attacks against the green recycle bags as fashion, Tsubi ruining op-shopping for everyone and some woman who collects rubbish to add to the junkyard within her home. Yes, this is hard-hitting journalism at it's best.

More info and subscriptions here.

The Land of the Rising Sun is famous for its food and technology, but certainly not its scarecrows. That may change. Route 280 Bypass in Aomori Prefecture is quickly becoming the country's scarecrow hub with creations like scandalized sumo wrestler Asashoryu playing soccer (pictured). Every September, local folks take part in the Kakashi Road 280 ("kakashi" is Japanese for scarecrow). The event was designed to kick start the local economy and welcome a new bullet train station. So far, they've got 60 kakashi. The goal? To double that and create 150 scarecrows to line 15-kilometer of the road. Now that's scary!

Other areas in Japan also hold September scarecrow events as well. Go here for pics from Tokyo suburb Machida City's Kakashi Festival.

by Brian Ashcraft

Idiom, Burton's small Japanese house label, are back with some new styles and upgrades for the upcoming Fall and Winter. All of the jackets are simple with the attention to detail we've come to expect including taped seams, pit zips, waterproof zippers and handwarmer pockets, to name a few.

Favorites include the 2.5 Slant Zip Jacket (above left), a new style featuring a great tartan print and a slanted zip adding to the futuristic look. Well cut, it features fully taped seams and laser-cut, welded zipper details. It also comes with an Idiom stuff sack for on-the-go situations. The Continuum Down Jacket (above right) is a slimmed down puffy jacket that keeps you just as warm as the bloated alternatives. The laminated fabric keeps the insulation evenly distributed throughout and a removable stretch waist gaiter keeps drafts and snow out. The satin-like red colorway, inspired by Japanese silk fabrics, is our favorite.

As always all Idiom gear is available in limited quantities. Check out other styles and purchase at The Glade.