Stamps on Healthy Living

 

Date of Issue : 2 April 2015

South Africa Post has released a series of stamps dedicated to healthy living and celebrating the prestigious (23rd International) 8th World Congress of Nephrology (WCN 2015), which took place at the Cape Town International Convention Centre from 3 to 7 April 2015. The issue consisting of five stamps was put into circulation on the 2d of April.

Nephrology is a branch of medical science that deals with the study of the normal working of the kidneys, as well as its diseases. The kidneys are vital for a healthy life. Their complex network of blood vessels and intricate network of tubes and tubules cleanse the blood of waste products and excess water. The kidneys maintain the fluid, electrolytes, and acid-base regulation that are altered by several disease conditions, as well as drugs and toxins.

The biennial World Congresses of Nephrology – an initiative of the International Society of Nephrology (ISN) – are premiere educational events in nephrology that rotate between continents and are organised in collaboration with local and regional nephrology societies. The congress is aimed at the international nephrology community, as well as other healthcare professionals involved in multidisciplinary nephrology care; thus enabling professionals from all parts of the world to exchange views on a wide variety of topics affecting nephrology and those suffering from kidney disease around the world.

WCN 2015 was hosted by the South African Renal Society in partnership with the African Association of Nephrology, and the Renal Care Society of South Africa. By bringing together practicing physicians, academics, scientists, international health authorities and clinical researchers, the congress offered a global forum for a free exchange of science and medical knowledge and strategies.

The stamps

Designed by Marli Joubert, the stamps have a red and blue colour scheme inspired by diagrams showing oxygenated blood (red) and un-oxygenated blood (blue). The stamps draw attention to steps that can be taken to lower the risk of chronic kidney disease (CKD). These include:

Regular medical check-ups:

In most cases, CKD cannot be completely prevented, but early detection can help you to manage the disease. If you have a long-term condition, such as diabetes, that could potentially cause CKD, it is important to manage it carefully. Follow the advice of your doctor and keep all appointments relating to your condition. People with diabetes are advised to have their kidney function tested every year.

Regular exercise:

Exercise helps to lower blood pressure and reduces the risk of other diseases such as diabetes, high cholesterol and heart disease. This in turn reduces the risk of developing CKD, while helping to maintain a healthy weight. At least two and a half hours of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week, such as cycling or fast walking, is recommended.

A healthy diet:

Eating a balanced diet will also help to prevent conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, overweight and heart disease, which will reduce the risk of CKD. A balanced diet includes plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables (five portions a day), fish, raw nuts and whole grains, as well as drinking plenty of water, limiting your salt and sugar intake and avoiding unsaturated fats.

Stop smoking:

Smoking increases the risk of cardiovascular disease, including heart attacks or strokes, and it can increase the likelihood that any existing kidney problems will get worse. If you stop smoking, you will improve your general health and reduce your risk of developing other serious conditions, such as lung cancer and emphysema.

Limit alcohol intake:

Drinking excessive amounts of alcohol can cause a rise in blood pressure as well as in the cholesterol levels in the blood. Following the recommended alcohol consumption limits is the best way to reduce the risk of developing high blood pressure and the risk of CKD. Recommended limits for alcohol intake are three to four units of alcohol a day for men, and two to three units of alcohol a day for women.

Sports and Health stamps from Hong Kong

Date of Issue 23 April 2015

Hong Kong released a special set of stamps dedicated to sports and promoting healthy lifestyle. The issue consists of six stamps and is to be put into circulation on the 23d of April.

Exercise is an excellent way to relieve stress in a fast-paced city like Hong Kong. A moderate workout a day helps strengthen physical fitness and soothe one’s nerves, and is therefore tremendously beneficial to the body and mind.

The Government endeavours to implement a sport-for-all policy. In addition to a diverse range of sports-related activities launched in local communities, various large-scale sports events have been organised to encourage citizens to participate more in sports. At the same time, the brilliant achievements of Hong Kong athletes in international competitions are not only Hong Kong’s pride, but have also aroused greater interest by citizens in local sports development.

To promote the public’s participation in sports and to advocate a sporting culture, an online voting exercise, “My Favourite Sports”, was held from February to March 2014, to invite the public to vote for their favourite sports. The top six choices were then adopted in the present set of special stamps on “Sports in Hong Kong”.

The six stamps depict six different sports, namely, cycling ($1.70), table tennis ($2.20), football ($2.90), athletics ($3.10), badminton ($3.70) and swimming ($5). Each stamp presents a bird’s eye view of the arena specially designed for each of the six sports, with its linear features highlighted to create an innovative and interesting visual effect.

Painted in different colours, the sports arenas depicted on the six stamps make a brightly-hued and vivid scene when put together. The silhouettes on the stamps outline the different actions of the athletes in playing their sports. The fine line across each stamp not only tracks the movement, but also denotes breakthroughs and the pursuit of excellence.

To echo the sports-related theme, Hongkong Post has made this its first-ever set of thermochromically printed stamps. As the silhouettes of the athletes are printed in thermochromic ink, their colours vary with a change in temperature. This highly distinctive feature adds vibrance and energy to the stamps in this issue.

Earth Day

 

 

22 April – Earth Day

Earth Day is an annual event, celebrated on April 22, on which day events worldwide are held to demonstrate support for environmental protection. It was first celebrated in 1970, and is now coordinated globally by the Earth Day Network, and celebrated in more than 192 countries each year.

Go Green..

In celebration of Earth Day 2011, the United States Postal Service, in partnership with the United States Environmental Protection Agency, issued 16 different "Go Green" commemorative stamps. Each of the "Forever" stamps features an eco-tip with an illustration showing simple things any of us can do each day to reduce our environmental footprint.

 

Earth Day 2015: It’s our turn to lead

2015 - Earth Day’s 45th anniversary - could be the most exciting year in environmental history.
The year in which economic growth and sustainability join hands. The year in which world leaders finally pass a binding climate change treaty. The year in which citizens and organizations divest from fossil fuels and put their money into renewable energy solutions. These are tough issues but we know what’s at stake is the future of our planet and the survival of life on earth.

On Earth Day we need you to take a stand so that together, we can show the world a new direction. It’s our turn to lead. So our world leaders can follow by example. For many, climate change seems like a remote problem, but the reality is that it’s already affecting people, animals and places around the world. A change needs to be made. On April 22 we are harnessing the power of Earth Day to show our communities and our leadership that we want action on climate. It’s our turn to lead.

Read More..

New stamp from India

 

Old Seminary, Kottayam – 21st April 2015

To commemorate bicentennial of Old Seminary, Kottayam commemorative stamp was released by President Shri Pranab Mukherjee at a function held at Rashtrapati Bhavan, New Delhi on 21st April 2015

The Orthodox Theological Seminary, Kottayam, traditionally known as the "Padithaveedu" or "Old Seminary" was originally a place for priestly training and a centre of English education. It was founded in 1815 by Colonel John Monroe with the help of the priest-monk Ittoop Ramban to serve the then-unified Malankara Syrian Church, to invite CMS missionaries to teach theology. It is the first Orthodox Christian School of theology in Asia.

Starting up as a centre to educate and mould-up clergies of the ancient St. Thomas Christians of India, it eventually became the cradle and headquarters of more than four Christian denominations of the Thomas Christians during the last 200 years as each of them carefully glance back. The Seminary is today, the seat of highest Orthodox Theological learning and ecumenical dealings in India. The Old Seminary is a living witness and forum of actions for many great events that took place in and around Kottayam in Central Kerala during the last 200 years.

Courtesy – Indian Philately Digest

President lauds state's tradition of religious amity

Tuesday 21 April 2015 05:33 PM IST

New Delhi: Kerala is a model for religious cooperation and coexistence, President Pranab Mukherjee said. Hindu, Muslim and Christian communities have lived together and contributed to the social welfare of the state, he added, while releasing a stamp commemorating the bicentennial of the Old Seminary in Kottayam.

People in Kerala treated other religions with tolerance and did everything to help them propagate, he said. Hindu kings have donated land for Christians and Muslims to build their places of worship, he pointed out.

He highlighted the service of the Indian Orthodox Church in improving the quality of life of the people. The contribution of various churches is invaluable in spreading education in Kerala. One major contributor to Kerala’s universal literacy was the network of schools attached to each seminary, he said.

The churches have contributed immensely in healthcare sector too, he added. The Old Seminary in Kottayam is a brilliant example of India’s diversity, said Information and Broadcasting Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad. This is the age of information. But knowledge is spread through institutions such as the Old Seminary. He said the Old Seminary was an extraordinary institution and the stamp was a tribute to its services.

Baselios Mar Thoma Paulose II Catholicos said this commemoration was not only a celebration of the past. This is a model of our commitment to preserve our heritage, he added. He said he was reiterating his commitment for peace, progress and unity. The Indian Orthodox Church wishes for the coexistence of various religions and traditions of India, he said.

 Read More….

 

Taipei welcomes back Asian stamp exhibition

A silver ingot bearing a hallmark of the first Western-style stamp issued in imperial China is set to prove popular with show-goers during the 30th Asian International Stamp Exhibition April 24-28 at Taipei World Trade Center. (CNA)

The 30th Asian International Stamp Exhibition is set to kick off April 24 at Taipei World Trade Center, bringing together rare postage collectibles from 24 Federation of Inter-Asia Philately countries and territories.

Celebrating a return to Taipei City after seven years, the philatelic event is showcasing 1,000 high-value stamps. Eye-catching offerings include five Qing dynasty (1644-1911) red revenue stamps, of which only 32 are known to exist worldwide, as well as the 1894 commemorative issue marking the empress dowager’s 60th birthday.

“Postage stamps are a nation’s calling card,” Minister of Transportation and Communications Chen Jian-yu said. “And stories told by the stamps are often culturally immersive and have a global appeal.

“Every philately exhibition seeks to connect stamp enthusiasts, spread knowledge and inspire new ideas, allowing beauty, history and milestone achievements recorded in the tiny square of a stamp to be enjoyed by all.”

According to Chen, who doubles as the honorary president of the exhibition, the event is particularly significant as it coincides with the 120th anniversary of organizer Chunghwa Post Co. Ltd. “We expect to breathe new life into this prestigious gathering, advancing cultural and intellectual enrichment while strengthening ties among FIAP members,” he added.

Other show highlights include early ROC commemorative, definitive and provisional stamps from Shanghai and Beijing; silver ingots bearing a hallmark of the first Western-style stamp issued in imperial China; and collections of past AISE first-prize winners. (YHC-JSM)

- Taiwan Today

 

Protection of the Baltic Sea Natural Environment

 

 

Save the Baltic Seal

Date of Issue : 12 March 2015

The beautiful Souvenir sheet shown above was issued by Estonia Post on 12th March 2015 featuring ‘Protection of the Baltic Sea Natural Environment’. The FDC of this issue is so wonderful. With this issue a Maximum card was also issued. This is the perfect item for collection on environment, nature, sea and mammals.This issue highlights how the intense ship traffic in Baltic Sea has affected the sea life.

The Baltic Sea is an inland sea of the Baltic Ocean, which surrounds Estonia from the north and the west. The other countries of the Baltic Sea are Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Germany, Denmark, Sweden, Finland and Russia. The Baltic States are developed industrial countries and the settlements’ and industrial enterprises’ effluent flow into the sea from large areas. A lot of nutrients used in agriculture and forestry flow into the sea and as a result of this the coastal and maritime flora has started to thrive out of proportion. For many organisms it is difficult to adapt water that contains a lot of nutrients and as result they fall ill and finally die. Recently “flowering of the water” or mass gadding of the blue green algae has increased.

 

The biggest amount of toxic substances build up at the end of the feeding chain. Seals, who mainly eat fish, are at the end of feeding chain and due to the environmental toxic substances numerous female animals have lost their power of breeding. The intense maritime traffic on the Baltic Sea is a great source of danger, accounting for nearly 15 percent of the maritime traffic of all the seas of the world. One of the channels of pollution is nitrogen that gets into the maritime environment due to the exhaust gases of ship traffic. More environmental-friendly fuels and technologies would reduce ship effluents by up to 80 percent.

General growth of ship traffic and explosively increased transport of crude oil additionally bring considerable danger of a collision of tanker ships. Many oil tankers moving on the Baltic Sea are still single-bottomed as before. During the past twenty years there have been dozens of accidents involving ships and oil pollution. Oil pollution on the seaboard can preserve for decades and its most visible consequences are oil on the surface of the sea: birds and seals suffocate and the opportunity that they do not die is reduced by the deterioration of their movement. But purposeful protection makes it possible to keep the Baltic Sea relatively clean and viable, to preserve the versatility of to its natural environments and to restore the quality of the environment and of the waters.

New stamp from Aland

 

 

Peach-leaved bellflower

Date of Issue : 10 April 2015

The new Stamp issued by  Aland Post  on 10th April 2015. The stamp depicts Peach-leaved bellflower (Campanula persicifolia).This is a wonderful stamp with beautiful FDC and Maxim Card for those collecting stamps on Flower theme.It’s gutter pair set is so beautiful and is indeed a collecting item.

 

Gutter Pair Set

 

New Postmarks and stationery on wildlife from Germany

 

  

From May 5th to June 30th a new machine  postmark with slogan is available at the Mail Centre in

12529 SCHÖNFELD. The logo of the machine postmark will feature a Eurasian eagle-owl(Bubo Bubo).

 

Postmark and Postcard on Langur

 

The new postmark and a Postmark to be issued on 27th June  feature the head of a Grey langur  and the stationery (postcard) feature a group of Grey langurs. In background the image of a Indian elephant.

Both items are available on June 27th in Germany during a philatelic exhibition of German Philatelic Collector Group .

Interested philatelists may please contact : Wolfgang Beyer, Vice Chairman of the German Philatelic Collector Group ARGE ZOOLOGIE. Mail:Wolfgang.beyer1@aol.de . Postage rate: 0,80 Euro AIRMAIL.