Some people are just totally connected to gadgets. Starting when men are small boys, they all dream of spinning webs like Spider-man, flying like superman, and having Batman's utility belt. It is the ultimate male accessory, that and a really cool cape.
Its the reason why blackberry's are so popular. Its useful, requires some skill, but more importantly its a gadget. Men like gadgets. Somehow, a byproduct of humans new technology based information transfer society is the necessity for carry-all devices like that of purses, and backpacks. So why not have utility belts. Most Americans already carry keys, eyeglasses (sunglasses), wallets for credit cards and Id's. Yet, now they also carry cell phones, music devices, headphones, and charging cords. It is only going to get worse.
Seattle Public Utilities estimates that 360 million disposable bags are handed out in the city every year; most of them plastic. Plastic bags are virtually indestructible, taking years to break down and commonly ending up in landfills. So now the city is proposing a 20-cent fee on disposable shopping bags at grocery, drug and convenience stores. Their plan announced last Wednesday also calls for a ban on foam take-home containers, plates and cups at restaurants. They say paper and plastic bags and foam containers are bad for the environment, and they hope charging a fee will encourage people to bring reusable bags when they shop.
If you look in most supermarkets they sell reusable shopping bags, and then some stores carry small pouch type bags that fit on a belt loop or belt, then unfold into a large carry bag for newly bought items. Its fantastic.
The utility belt makes complete sense though unlike Batman's with grappling hooks and razor sharp boomerangs there are enough items to complete the package. It starts with cell phone, music player, spare battery pack / charger, flashlight, multi-tool, grocery bag / pouch, small water bottle, butane lighter, and just enough room for a digital camera. This is everyday leaving the house type stuff, if there is an outdoor hike or camping to be done, the list only gets longer. Personal first aid kit, small rain poncho, personal GPS, and signal devices. In some cities, people will also carry person oxygen masks for high smog days. Is it spinning out of control, or are human males just substituting gadgets for bows, arrows, and large hunting knives? Maybe or maybe not, but its better for humans to carry these gadget things than swords, guns, and bullets.
Bumba, Dee, Da,... Happy Trails!
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