Below is the text of my complaint email I sent off yesterday to Noel Leemings Head Office, and which I cc'd to Erin Brockovich. (she is currently front NL's campaign telling everyone how they are 'the real deal' and act with such wonderful 'corporate responsibility')
Full credit to Brockovich also - she actually replied - and not just a generic reply - she said she would take it up with NL. Noel Leemings have not replied.
To whom it may concern at the Noel Leemings Group NZ Ltd,
I wish to register a complaint regarding the after-sales service provided by Noel Leemings.
Around two years ago I bought a Sony Vaio lap-top computer from Noel Leemings in Wellington - and till a couple of months back - it worked fine.
However, it recently lost power and stopped working. So I took it in to your 'Technology' branch in Wellington for repair. It was outside its warranty period, so I expected a cost would be involved.
After a month or so, it was returned to me 'fixed' and I paid out around NZ$300. But, a month and a half later the same thing happened again - so I took it in, again. I was told that "If it was the same problem, it would be fixed under a three-month service warranty". I said 'great', to which your staff member replied "hehe but they normally find something else wrong and charge you for that, hehe." Naturally, to which, I raised my eyebrows. He then said - Oh only joking I'm sure they're really honest - in a slightly sarcastic tone. I dismissed this assuming he was joking.
Turns out he wasn't. I received a call yesterday telling me that it would cost an additional NZ$400 to have it repaired - as it was, you guessed it - "a different issue". I said well I'm not throwing 'good money after bad' I would sooner buy a new one. And now - just to get the thing back I have to pay what is essentially a NZ$95 ransom/service fee!
My complaint - is that I paid NZ$300 for a repair - that did not work. Now Noel Leemings want another NZ$400 to fix what is essentially the same problem - or NZ$95 just to get my unfixed computer back. Either way I am going to be at least $395 (or at worst NZ$700!) out of pocket with a computer that does not work!
For a company that has just launched a series of TV adverts endorsing their 'good corporate practices' and "doing the right thing" by customers - personally, I think this is shameful customer service.
Over the years I have spent literally thousands of dollars at Noel Leemings and Bond & Bond stores on TVs, stereos, white ware - fridges, washing machines etc, 2 computers and all sorts of other stuff. And yet when I actually tried to get some sort of reasonable standard of after sales service - I basically got shafted.
By contrast, a friend of mine had trouble with his Apple iBook - not only did the Apple outlet, Magnum-Mac, actually fix the problem, they also lent him a laptop for two weeks while his machine was being repaired. That is 'the real deal' - that is what I consider good customer service.
I intend to raise this with your store manager at Noel Leemings Technology - fully realising that it is likely to be a futile act (much like this email). But I want it known that I do not take being ripped off lightly - especially by a company that preaches that it does the right thing by customers, and is 'the real deal'.
Regards
Im waiting for them to call to say its ready for me to pick up (and pay their ransom). It will be all on like donkey kong that day.
Friday, November 30, 2007
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
From the Campaign Trail
As we count down to a possible change of government across the tasman, I thought I would share this gem from the campaign trail.
Australian Labor leader, Kevin Rudd, has been busy appearing on Rove and student radio etc - to appear to be down with kids. But unfortunately it turns out that Rudd is still just a 50 year old conservative Christian at heart - and like Rowan Atkinson in Four Weddings and Funeral can't bring himself to say 'condom'.
Asked on youth radio network 'Triple J' whether he supported condom use as a safe sex message for young people he broke out an absolute corker example of bureaucratise.
"In terms of effective aids prevention mechanisms, contraception along the lines you described are appropriate," said Rudd before doing a silly giggle.
Good grief. Wouldnt "Yeah absolutely" have been a better answer?
Still, it should be all on for young and old this weekend. Labor are well ahead, but my only fear is that they will over-capitalise in their safe seats, and not pick up enough votes in the marginals. I guess we will see on Saturday night (well the early hours of Sunday morning).
Australian Labor leader, Kevin Rudd, has been busy appearing on Rove and student radio etc - to appear to be down with kids. But unfortunately it turns out that Rudd is still just a 50 year old conservative Christian at heart - and like Rowan Atkinson in Four Weddings and Funeral can't bring himself to say 'condom'.
Asked on youth radio network 'Triple J' whether he supported condom use as a safe sex message for young people he broke out an absolute corker example of bureaucratise.
"In terms of effective aids prevention mechanisms, contraception along the lines you described are appropriate," said Rudd before doing a silly giggle.
Good grief. Wouldnt "Yeah absolutely" have been a better answer?
Still, it should be all on for young and old this weekend. Labor are well ahead, but my only fear is that they will over-capitalise in their safe seats, and not pick up enough votes in the marginals. I guess we will see on Saturday night (well the early hours of Sunday morning).
It's a Sony
Just a couple of weeks away from Beckham touching down in Wellington now, and the Phoenix have announced their new main sponsor - Sony.
Sony are relative newcomers to sponsorship in New Zealand - we're more accustomed to Banks, Beers, Phones and Fridges. Also means that everyone will have to go and buy the playing strip again!! lol
In other news Stuff had a dumb article on one of their 'blogs' on how we are witnessing the "death of the suit". Rubbish. Im all for suits and ties and I would go as far as to say we should ban casual Fridays. Hardly anyone does business casual - we just do casual. It can't be good for productivity.
Maybe as a compromise we could "Phoenix Fridays" and all wear our Sony Phoenix strips??
Thursday, November 08, 2007
Couple of things
Well the Melbourne Cup was a bit of a dud from my amateur punters point of view - all the horses I was backing finished mid-field - bugger. I did go through a run of picking the winner four years in a row - 2002, Media Puzzle and then 2003, 04, and 05, Makybe Diva. I did pull out the big guns for our Melbourne Cup event though - making a huge comeback was my old Ozwald Boateng tie for one last dash!
Also big ups to One Moment Caller - with One Moment Caller junior set to join the team next year!
And to finish, I have an oddspot. Prince, (who has been mentioned on my blog before) is actually crazier than we all first thought. The Seventh Day Adventist (I love saying that) has apparently threatened the people who run fan websites - dedicated to him! - with legal action, unless they remove images they have of him on their sites. You would have thought his bizarro actions in the last few years would have put them off already - but this may be the last straw?? I guess this is what it sounds like when doves cry?
Also big ups to One Moment Caller - with One Moment Caller junior set to join the team next year!
And to finish, I have an oddspot. Prince, (who has been mentioned on my blog before) is actually crazier than we all first thought. The Seventh Day Adventist (I love saying that) has apparently threatened the people who run fan websites - dedicated to him! - with legal action, unless they remove images they have of him on their sites. You would have thought his bizarro actions in the last few years would have put them off already - but this may be the last straw?? I guess this is what it sounds like when doves cry?
Monday, November 05, 2007
Festivas for the rest of us
The Documentary Film Festival has just got under way. The standout in the line up has to be Spike Lee's four hour epic When the Levees Broke. The film was originally shown on HBO in the states in four parts. Lee goes around interviewing residents of New Orleans post-Katrina. By all accounts it is an incredibly moving picture.
Also, the International Festival of the Arts has launched their programme. The free projection show (Body Moves) on the city-side of Te Papa looks great, and I hope it works as well as the Waitangi Park outdoor exhibition at the last festival.
Composer Philip Glass', new work, Book of Longing, based on the 'poetry and images' of Leonard Cohen looks great. Giselle, the dance work by the 'Fabulous Beast Dance Company' of Ireland looks so crazy that it must be fun to watch!
Of course Blackbird will attract a lot of attention as a result of being directed by Cate Blanchett, but the blurb does make it look interesting. Might be hard to get tickets though given Blanchett's involvement (and the fact that its name is similar to my blog!)
If the Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain are half as good as Wellington's International Ukulele Orchestra - then this show is an absolute must-see. Apparently they play songs by Tchaikovsky, Nirvana, Kate Bush, The Sex Pistols, Otis Redding and many others - sounds like a great night. Also good to see that they are taking performances out to the provinces, with shows in Masterton and Pram.
Finishing it off, the excellent David (possibly the funniest man in NZ) Fane probably makes going to the Bro'Town live stage show worthwhile.
Check it out - its festivals like these that make Wellington great.
Also, the International Festival of the Arts has launched their programme. The free projection show (Body Moves) on the city-side of Te Papa looks great, and I hope it works as well as the Waitangi Park outdoor exhibition at the last festival.
Composer Philip Glass', new work, Book of Longing, based on the 'poetry and images' of Leonard Cohen looks great. Giselle, the dance work by the 'Fabulous Beast Dance Company' of Ireland looks so crazy that it must be fun to watch!
Of course Blackbird will attract a lot of attention as a result of being directed by Cate Blanchett, but the blurb does make it look interesting. Might be hard to get tickets though given Blanchett's involvement (and the fact that its name is similar to my blog!)
If the Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain are half as good as Wellington's International Ukulele Orchestra - then this show is an absolute must-see. Apparently they play songs by Tchaikovsky, Nirvana, Kate Bush, The Sex Pistols, Otis Redding and many others - sounds like a great night. Also good to see that they are taking performances out to the provinces, with shows in Masterton and Pram.
Finishing it off, the excellent David (possibly the funniest man in NZ) Fane probably makes going to the Bro'Town live stage show worthwhile.
Check it out - its festivals like these that make Wellington great.
Thursday, November 01, 2007
Meh
Meh - is my reaction to this week's Cabinet reshuffle. One of the commentators (Espiner?) were close to the mark when they said the reshuffle was like painting the walls and cupboards and replacing the taps without doing anything else to the kitchen - fundamentally its still the same beast.
For all his previous great work, Finance Minister Cullen now appears arrogant and seems to have come down with what Jane Clifton called i-know-best-itis. I think at the very least he should have been shifted to a shared Treasurer/Minister of Finance role with the popular and very electable Phil Goff.
In saying that, I didn't really expect that to happen anyway. I only hope Labour hasn't missed yet another opportunity this year. Rightly or wrongly, people in New Zealand and Australia have been attracted to their respective fresh and enthusiastic opposition leaders. I think the reshuffle was a chance to neutralise that in the NZ case by promoting someone like Goff to the pivotal Finance role.
Anyway, you will remember that earlier in the year I gave my suggestion for a reshuffle - now I was almost entirely wrong - but I was saying what I wanted rather than what I thought would happen. Regardless, of the five people I suggested be promoted to the Ministry (Jones, Street, Chadwick, Chauvel and Hughes), only Chauvel missed out. I guess four out of five ain't bad. Although I'm still not sure why Chauvel didn't get in - at least to a role outside the Cabinet? He is clearly as capable as Hughes or Chadwick.
Its good to see new blood all the same though. I was also happy with how Law and Order has been shut down - King/Goff vs Power will be a much better contest than Burton/O'Connor vs Power ever was. Cunliffe has performed well in Immigration and Comms and IT, and although he will be outside his comfort-zone, I think the Health portfolio could make him. I worry about Carter in Education - he was controversial in the junior Housing and Conservation portfolios - I hope he gets it together now. King running Electoral Finance (EFB) could be something to watch too. She failed to get any sort of cross-party consensus on the ANZTPA (Therapeutics) - which is what is needed now on the EFB. I really hope she can turn that Bill into something that at least upholds Labour's values.
So on the whole, there are some great bits, and well, some 'other' bits - hence my reaction: meh.
For all his previous great work, Finance Minister Cullen now appears arrogant and seems to have come down with what Jane Clifton called i-know-best-itis. I think at the very least he should have been shifted to a shared Treasurer/Minister of Finance role with the popular and very electable Phil Goff.
In saying that, I didn't really expect that to happen anyway. I only hope Labour hasn't missed yet another opportunity this year. Rightly or wrongly, people in New Zealand and Australia have been attracted to their respective fresh and enthusiastic opposition leaders. I think the reshuffle was a chance to neutralise that in the NZ case by promoting someone like Goff to the pivotal Finance role.
Anyway, you will remember that earlier in the year I gave my suggestion for a reshuffle - now I was almost entirely wrong - but I was saying what I wanted rather than what I thought would happen. Regardless, of the five people I suggested be promoted to the Ministry (Jones, Street, Chadwick, Chauvel and Hughes), only Chauvel missed out. I guess four out of five ain't bad. Although I'm still not sure why Chauvel didn't get in - at least to a role outside the Cabinet? He is clearly as capable as Hughes or Chadwick.
Its good to see new blood all the same though. I was also happy with how Law and Order has been shut down - King/Goff vs Power will be a much better contest than Burton/O'Connor vs Power ever was. Cunliffe has performed well in Immigration and Comms and IT, and although he will be outside his comfort-zone, I think the Health portfolio could make him. I worry about Carter in Education - he was controversial in the junior Housing and Conservation portfolios - I hope he gets it together now. King running Electoral Finance (EFB) could be something to watch too. She failed to get any sort of cross-party consensus on the ANZTPA (Therapeutics) - which is what is needed now on the EFB. I really hope she can turn that Bill into something that at least upholds Labour's values.
So on the whole, there are some great bits, and well, some 'other' bits - hence my reaction: meh.
Radiohead - In Rainbows
Last couple of days Ive been listening to Radiohead's seventh album - In Rainbows. Its a little hard to review as I have no idea what the track names are and the computer shat itself, so my burnt copy doesnt have the last two tracks.
Before youre outraged at me owning a burnt copy - this is of course the album that they released via their website for "however much you want to pay". In my case that meant nothing.... shut it, Ive spent more than enough over the years on EPs, Singles etc by Radiohead to make up for it - and frankly giving, like a buck, would be insulting. Thats my line and im sticking to it.
Anyway the album follows on nicely from Hail to the Thief. I always thought that Hail was the album that should have come out after OK Computer, before Kid A. I think that may have provided a nice link for those who felt Kid A and Amnesiac (which of course features my favourite Radiohead track - Pyramid Song) were a bridge too far.
In Rainbows, while still pushing the boundaries, is again along the lines of Hail to the Thief. Tracks 2, 5 and 6 are all outstanding and Im really loving Track 4 - toe tapping goodness! Despite missing the last couple of tracks, I think this is a fantastic album.
Like Hail to the Thief, this could bring a lot of the OK Computer crowd back to, arguably, the most important band in the last 15 years.
Download a copy here (feel free to make a donation in lieu of my download).
You can read about all the background etc etc and even see a track listing here
Before youre outraged at me owning a burnt copy - this is of course the album that they released via their website for "however much you want to pay". In my case that meant nothing.... shut it, Ive spent more than enough over the years on EPs, Singles etc by Radiohead to make up for it - and frankly giving, like a buck, would be insulting. Thats my line and im sticking to it.
Anyway the album follows on nicely from Hail to the Thief. I always thought that Hail was the album that should have come out after OK Computer, before Kid A. I think that may have provided a nice link for those who felt Kid A and Amnesiac (which of course features my favourite Radiohead track - Pyramid Song) were a bridge too far.
In Rainbows, while still pushing the boundaries, is again along the lines of Hail to the Thief. Tracks 2, 5 and 6 are all outstanding and Im really loving Track 4 - toe tapping goodness! Despite missing the last couple of tracks, I think this is a fantastic album.
Like Hail to the Thief, this could bring a lot of the OK Computer crowd back to, arguably, the most important band in the last 15 years.
Download a copy here (feel free to make a donation in lieu of my download).
You can read about all the background etc etc and even see a track listing here
Monday, October 29, 2007
iWant an iPad
I spotted this in the latest Urbis - Auckland architect Andre Hodgskin has developed the iPad - a flat-pack kitset bach.
They retail from NZD125 000 and are delivered to your section ready to be assembled.
You can get them in one or two bedroom or one bedroom plus guesthouse (lay out pictured).
They are made to be a bach or second home - but I wouldnt mind one as my main home! I just love the simplicity of them and their temporary nature (you can pack them up and put them on another section.... in saying 'you can' I really mean you can get people to do it!).
They remind me of that rather odd looking townhouse development down Boulcott St - the one built on stilts above a carpark. Now that is actually the site for the 20-plus-storey Willis Tower, and while the developer gets the dosh together he had those townhouses put above the carpark to optimise the space in the interim. The townhouses will be moved to a permanent home later and sold off to make way for the development.
Anyway, I need to go and find a section (and a couple of hundred grand) for an iPad.
More information on the iPad here
They retail from NZD125 000 and are delivered to your section ready to be assembled.
You can get them in one or two bedroom or one bedroom plus guesthouse (lay out pictured).
They are made to be a bach or second home - but I wouldnt mind one as my main home! I just love the simplicity of them and their temporary nature (you can pack them up and put them on another section.... in saying 'you can' I really mean you can get people to do it!).
They remind me of that rather odd looking townhouse development down Boulcott St - the one built on stilts above a carpark. Now that is actually the site for the 20-plus-storey Willis Tower, and while the developer gets the dosh together he had those townhouses put above the carpark to optimise the space in the interim. The townhouses will be moved to a permanent home later and sold off to make way for the development.
Anyway, I need to go and find a section (and a couple of hundred grand) for an iPad.
More information on the iPad here
Thursday, October 25, 2007
Greatest all time soundtrack
Vanity Fair has come up with a list of the top 50 movie soundtracks, not sure I entirely agree with them - but its not bad in any case
Vanity Fair's Top 10
1. Purple Rain (Prince's film - VF called the soundtrack - a combination of "funk, R&B, pop, metal, and even psychedelia into a sound that defined the '80s", but described the film itself as "perhaps the most badly-acted ever".)
2. A Hard Day's Night (The Beatles... in case you didn't know)
3. The Harder They Come (1972 film - never heard of it - starred Jimmy Cliff... apparently)
4. Pulp Fiction
5. The Graduate
6. Trainspotting
7. Saturday Night Fever
8. Superfly
9. American Graffiti and
10. The Big Chill
My top 5 (granted I haven't put too much thought into it)
1. Magnolia (The movie was BOLLOCKS (don't lie, you know it really is) but the soundtrack is fantastic - well the Aimee Mann tracks - which is most of them)
2. Pulp Fiction
3. Trainspotting
4. Almost Famous
5. High Fidelity
Highly commended would be the Velvet Goldmine, Standing in the Shadows of Mowtown, I am Sam and probably even Eagle vs Shark (but that's just because its in my car stereo at the moment).
I didn't count the numerous Beatles 'soundtracks' as the 'movies' they were linked to were actually more extended music videos. Also I didn't count films like the Johnny Cash biopic - Walk the Line nor Edith Piaf's La Vie En Rose (which is worth seeing - the lead should win best actress) as I think they were more 'best of' collections.
Vanity Fair's Top 10
1. Purple Rain (Prince's film - VF called the soundtrack - a combination of "funk, R&B, pop, metal, and even psychedelia into a sound that defined the '80s", but described the film itself as "perhaps the most badly-acted ever".)
2. A Hard Day's Night (The Beatles... in case you didn't know)
3. The Harder They Come (1972 film - never heard of it - starred Jimmy Cliff... apparently)
4. Pulp Fiction
5. The Graduate
6. Trainspotting
7. Saturday Night Fever
8. Superfly
9. American Graffiti and
10. The Big Chill
My top 5 (granted I haven't put too much thought into it)
1. Magnolia (The movie was BOLLOCKS (don't lie, you know it really is) but the soundtrack is fantastic - well the Aimee Mann tracks - which is most of them)
2. Pulp Fiction
3. Trainspotting
4. Almost Famous
5. High Fidelity
Highly commended would be the Velvet Goldmine, Standing in the Shadows of Mowtown, I am Sam and probably even Eagle vs Shark (but that's just because its in my car stereo at the moment).
I didn't count the numerous Beatles 'soundtracks' as the 'movies' they were linked to were actually more extended music videos. Also I didn't count films like the Johnny Cash biopic - Walk the Line nor Edith Piaf's La Vie En Rose (which is worth seeing - the lead should win best actress) as I think they were more 'best of' collections.
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
Making a tough task harder
Like most other Wellington sports teams the Phoenix seem to be going out of their way to frustrate their addicted fans!
Going into injury time at the end of the fixture with the table-topping Central Coast Mariners at 1-1, and after having the better of the second half, it looked like the Nix would leave the capital with 1 point. But no, some how our defenders gifted the Mariners striker an absolute lolly - which he duly guided into the goal for a 2-1 Mariners win. (video of the goals below)
This leaves the Nix in an uncomfortable position - seventh. Since our 4-1 win over Perth three weeks ago, we have lost three on the trot. We now have three away games. Which is why it was vital to get at least a point out of the Mariners clash.
Phoenix will need to pick up points in all three games now to avoid falling off the pace.
Granted, this is nothing like the Knights and the Nix are still in the running. But the honeymoon is well and truly over and its time to start putting things together out on the pitch.
On a high note - what about marquee signing, Ahmed Elrich's, strike from 30 metres out to equalise!?!?!
Next up are Adelaide, Perth (the new Knights), and Queensland.
Going into injury time at the end of the fixture with the table-topping Central Coast Mariners at 1-1, and after having the better of the second half, it looked like the Nix would leave the capital with 1 point. But no, some how our defenders gifted the Mariners striker an absolute lolly - which he duly guided into the goal for a 2-1 Mariners win. (video of the goals below)
This leaves the Nix in an uncomfortable position - seventh. Since our 4-1 win over Perth three weeks ago, we have lost three on the trot. We now have three away games. Which is why it was vital to get at least a point out of the Mariners clash.
Phoenix will need to pick up points in all three games now to avoid falling off the pace.
Granted, this is nothing like the Knights and the Nix are still in the running. But the honeymoon is well and truly over and its time to start putting things together out on the pitch.
On a high note - what about marquee signing, Ahmed Elrich's, strike from 30 metres out to equalise!?!?!
Next up are Adelaide, Perth (the new Knights), and Queensland.
Thursday, October 18, 2007
The Hillary and Kevin show
Given Howard has called the Australian Federal election for 24 November, and the US primaries are beginning to heat up, I thought it was worth floating the question that would ALP and Democrat governments at a federal level be good for NZ?
I'm not so sure, in fact I would actually lead towards 'not really'.
Howard and Clark, despite being from opposite ends of the spectrum, have actually worked really well together. In fact the last eight years are referred to as a "golden-period" in the relationship. Howard, despite his conservative flaws, has actually been very good towards NZ, primarily because he gets on with Clark.
But, just because ALP leader, Kevin Rudd, comes from the same political family as Clark, doesn't mean they will get on. Take Whitlam/Kirk or Lange/Hawke as examples - all 'labour' prime ministers, but they did not get along. Or on the other side, Muldoon/Fraser didn't really get on either, and even when we have had a left/right mix in the past - Keating/Bolger, it hasn't worked. But Clark/Howard has, because they have both had the relationship as a top foreign policy priority.
So far Rudd has mostly seemed interested in China, which is fine, and it is clearly a strength of his (he's fluent in mandarin), but I would love to see some sort of nod towards his neighbours.
On the US I have similar sentiments. Don't get me wrong, the Republicans have to go - but don't forget that the Democrats were more than willing to give us the cold-shoulder for the best part of the 1990s.
Now I'm not saying I would vote for Howard or the Republicans, but we do have to recognise that for our own nationalistic interests, a Rudd Government is not necessarily a great thing. I think New Zealand is going to have to work very hard in the next few years to ensure we aren't shut out again.
I'm not so sure, in fact I would actually lead towards 'not really'.
Howard and Clark, despite being from opposite ends of the spectrum, have actually worked really well together. In fact the last eight years are referred to as a "golden-period" in the relationship. Howard, despite his conservative flaws, has actually been very good towards NZ, primarily because he gets on with Clark.
But, just because ALP leader, Kevin Rudd, comes from the same political family as Clark, doesn't mean they will get on. Take Whitlam/Kirk or Lange/Hawke as examples - all 'labour' prime ministers, but they did not get along. Or on the other side, Muldoon/Fraser didn't really get on either, and even when we have had a left/right mix in the past - Keating/Bolger, it hasn't worked. But Clark/Howard has, because they have both had the relationship as a top foreign policy priority.
So far Rudd has mostly seemed interested in China, which is fine, and it is clearly a strength of his (he's fluent in mandarin), but I would love to see some sort of nod towards his neighbours.
On the US I have similar sentiments. Don't get me wrong, the Republicans have to go - but don't forget that the Democrats were more than willing to give us the cold-shoulder for the best part of the 1990s.
Now I'm not saying I would vote for Howard or the Republicans, but we do have to recognise that for our own nationalistic interests, a Rudd Government is not necessarily a great thing. I think New Zealand is going to have to work very hard in the next few years to ensure we aren't shut out again.
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
Standards and censorship
I read a great interview with Chief Censor, Bill Hastings, in the Weekend Herald's 'Canvas' magazine pull out yesterday. Now im not much of a fan of censorship, but reading some of the things he has had to sit through - Im glad the role exists.
What made me laugh though, was good old David (i cant help but complain about film festivals) Lane and the Society for the Protection of Community Standards. His quotes were hillarious -
My only question is - what the fuck is David Lane watching to have that level of detail?? And if he is really so offended by it - dont go into the little room at the video store and hire it in the first place!!!
They hardly stock this content under comedy or drama! (maybe 'action' i guess?)
What made me laugh though, was good old David (i cant help but complain about film festivals) Lane and the Society for the Protection of Community Standards. His quotes were hillarious -
The society's executive director, David Lane, believes all hard-core pornography should be banned under the act's provision against "degrading, dehumanising, or demeaning" content.
"Let's take the example of oral sex, where males penetrate a woman right to the depths of her throat.... where the woman chokes with the guy's private part right [there]," says Lane. "Is that degrading or demeaning? We're not talking about a nice gentle caress, we're talking about a woman, so orally penetrated that she has gagged."
"There are other videos which Hastings regularly passes which involves multiple sexual penetration. There might be two men going at it flat-out anally with a woman, and one from the 'front-entry' and another from the 'oral entry' and away you go."
My only question is - what the fuck is David Lane watching to have that level of detail?? And if he is really so offended by it - dont go into the little room at the video store and hire it in the first place!!!
They hardly stock this content under comedy or drama! (maybe 'action' i guess?)
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
Who would have thought?
My initial reaction to the news that the Police had raided alleged terrorist training camps in the Bay of Plenty and other related properties throughout the country - was that, surely they are over reacting here.
But, when you read about their haul of firearms, you can't help but think - fucking hell! I mean napalm FFS!
The 'pacifists' from Abel Smith St in Wellington were hillarious - they were apparently "mystified" as to why the Police would raid their house..... the "large semi-automatic weapons, molotov cocktails, shotguns and rifles" that were confiscated might be a clue. Id love to hear their definition of pacifism.
The Police seem to be suggesting that this was Maori seperatist groups working with envionmental and other likeminded activists. This could do untold damage to the credibility of legitimate community and political lobby groups.
Crazy stuff.
But, when you read about their haul of firearms, you can't help but think - fucking hell! I mean napalm FFS!
The 'pacifists' from Abel Smith St in Wellington were hillarious - they were apparently "mystified" as to why the Police would raid their house..... the "large semi-automatic weapons, molotov cocktails, shotguns and rifles" that were confiscated might be a clue. Id love to hear their definition of pacifism.
The Police seem to be suggesting that this was Maori seperatist groups working with envionmental and other likeminded activists. This could do untold damage to the credibility of legitimate community and political lobby groups.
Crazy stuff.
Friday, October 12, 2007
Wii + Lightsabers = EEEEEEEEE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
On Nov 6 the dream comes true!
The new Star Wars game on the Wii will feature Wiimote-Lightsaber dueling.
How cool is that??????????
This is gonna kick sooooooooooo much arse its not funny!
Once again the Wii proves that it is TFU! (The Fuckest Uppest)
Also in other news, Apple is opening a three level Apple Store in Australia - I only hope this means the iPhone will actually get released here.
Tuesday, October 09, 2007
Bend it like... Felipe!
I just bought tickets for the Phoenix vs LA Galaxy clash at the 'Ring of Fire' in December. Stoked.
Great marketing again by the Phoenix - great idea to include the A-League game against Adelaide in the Galaxy ticket (buy one get one free type deal).
Wellington has been a stunning football success with, on average, ten times more people at Phoenix home games, than there were for the Auckland Knights.
The atmosphere is completely different to Rugby, with no stupid pumping music - the crowd makes the noise. In many ways it reminds of the good old days (pre-Police-pressence) at a One Day Cricket International at the Basin Reserve.
My favourite chant has to be the "what the fucking, what the fucking, what the fucking hell was that? What the fucking hell was that?" In response to Perth's pathetic attempts on Goal. Although the "We're not Auckland, we're not Auckland, we're not Auckland any more! We're not Auckland any more!" is also quality.
Now I wonder - has Angus got tickets? Maybe he doesnt need them as he's seen Beckham play before? He is supposedly Beckham's biggest fan, and owns all sorts of homoerotic biographies and posters... Oh no, thats right he isnt in NZ so misses out... ohhhh... nevermind
Great marketing again by the Phoenix - great idea to include the A-League game against Adelaide in the Galaxy ticket (buy one get one free type deal).
Wellington has been a stunning football success with, on average, ten times more people at Phoenix home games, than there were for the Auckland Knights.
The atmosphere is completely different to Rugby, with no stupid pumping music - the crowd makes the noise. In many ways it reminds of the good old days (pre-Police-pressence) at a One Day Cricket International at the Basin Reserve.
My favourite chant has to be the "what the fucking, what the fucking, what the fucking hell was that? What the fucking hell was that?" In response to Perth's pathetic attempts on Goal. Although the "We're not Auckland, we're not Auckland, we're not Auckland any more! We're not Auckland any more!" is also quality.
Now I wonder - has Angus got tickets? Maybe he doesnt need them as he's seen Beckham play before? He is supposedly Beckham's biggest fan, and owns all sorts of homoerotic biographies and posters... Oh no, thats right he isnt in NZ so misses out... ohhhh... nevermind
Monday, October 08, 2007
What happened? Why? How?
This morning I don't know what to say. I feel exactly like one does when someone they know dies. There is nothing to be done, you really just have to get on. There's not a lot of point discussing the whys, the hows, the who can we blame theories, none of it will change anything and its not like you will suddenly discover some magical switch that could help.
Now I'm sure some of you are thinking - get over it, its only rugby, (or worse) its only a game. If you are thinking that, then you will never understand.
My favourite book is Nick Hornby's Fever Pitch, while many think it is about football, to me it isnt. Its about being a fan. Hornby describes what it means to devote your entire being to the performance of 'your' team. The euphoria of the highs and yes the utter despair of the lows.
Needless to say - yesterday was the latter. It was like a car crash. One minute you're on a high, everything is going along fine, then all of a sudden - bam. When you set off, you know it would be disastrous if you cross the centre line - the risk levels are high. No matter how well you prepare, one lapse in concentration and whack youre gone. You can't undo it, you can't go back. There is no point thinking, if only I did this... or if I did that. That's what the latest world cup loss feels like. We knew - all to well - that it could happen, but its gutting all the same and thats it... the end. You're left shocked, dazed and not sure what to do next.
The worst bit though, is knowing full well, that in four years, you will again give everything to that team again. You will again think - this year is different, this is our year... even though the shadow of previous failures remain.
So that's it. I'm not interested in the media telling me what was wrong with the campaign, why Henry should be sacked etc, why 'they knew all along' that we would lose and so on. There's no point its done. See you in four years.
Now I'm sure some of you are thinking - get over it, its only rugby, (or worse) its only a game. If you are thinking that, then you will never understand.
My favourite book is Nick Hornby's Fever Pitch, while many think it is about football, to me it isnt. Its about being a fan. Hornby describes what it means to devote your entire being to the performance of 'your' team. The euphoria of the highs and yes the utter despair of the lows.
Needless to say - yesterday was the latter. It was like a car crash. One minute you're on a high, everything is going along fine, then all of a sudden - bam. When you set off, you know it would be disastrous if you cross the centre line - the risk levels are high. No matter how well you prepare, one lapse in concentration and whack youre gone. You can't undo it, you can't go back. There is no point thinking, if only I did this... or if I did that. That's what the latest world cup loss feels like. We knew - all to well - that it could happen, but its gutting all the same and thats it... the end. You're left shocked, dazed and not sure what to do next.
The worst bit though, is knowing full well, that in four years, you will again give everything to that team again. You will again think - this year is different, this is our year... even though the shadow of previous failures remain.
So that's it. I'm not interested in the media telling me what was wrong with the campaign, why Henry should be sacked etc, why 'they knew all along' that we would lose and so on. There's no point its done. See you in four years.
Tuesday, October 02, 2007
Question
Why would you release your foreign policy discussion document on the same day that the Prime Minister (your opponent!) is speaking at the Oxford Union, visiting a war hero's grave, and meeting the Prime Minister of Britain????
Good on ya! Why not draw attention to your comparative inexperience?
Im not sure you could find a much worse day to release it? On a day like this - Clark couldnt look more prime ministerial and on top of foreign policy if she tried - so what the hell were National thinking??
Good grief.
Campaign tips from Timaru
There is a lot of talk about people standing in different electorates in 2008. As a guide to all these aspirants the current local body elections have provided a wonderful example of what to do on the campaign trail.
This from the Timaru Herald...
I don't know about you, but I can't wait for more campaigning lessons from Timaru!
This from the Timaru Herald...
Council candidate charged after urinating in gutter
The Timaru Herald | Tuesday, 2 October 2007
A Timaru district council candidate has been charged with offensive behaviour, following an incident in Dunedin last week.
The Timaru Herald was able to confirm yesterday that Karen Collings, who is standing for the Timaru ward on the council, was charged with offensive behaviour after allegedly being seen urinating in the gutter outside a Dunedin hotel.
I don't know about you, but I can't wait for more campaigning lessons from Timaru!
Friday, September 28, 2007
Computer recycling day tomorrow
Just a reminder that tomorrow is Wellington Computer Recycling day at Westpac Stadium.
If you have any old computers or mobile phones that youre looking dump - take them along to the Ring of Fire and get rid of them!
If you have any old computers or mobile phones that youre looking dump - take them along to the Ring of Fire and get rid of them!
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
Murder House
I went to the dentist for my annual check up yesterday. Passed with flying colours naturally... the dentist noted that I have "very, very good teeth" hell yeah!
So while on this high I caved in to the pressure to go to the "Dental Hygenist" as well. What a rock solid waste of time (and money!) that was.
If you are unfamiliar with the role of the Dental Hygenist, they basically do the work that dentists once did with the orbital sander/polisher hoobly device etc etc. But clearly they are also in the pocket of Colgate and other such multinationals! Throughout the whole experience she tried pushing their products on me - you should try COLGATE mouthwash (apparently Listerine isnt as good as "COLGATE brand"), and COLGATE electric toothbrushes and COLGATE floss.
She didnt seem to get my joke when I asked if she was getting kick-backs from Colgate - so maybe this means she is??
What really made me laugh though, is that she did nothing other than what dentists used to do to your teeth before they created this position. Which made me think, did the Dental Hygenist role come about during the Nat Govts 1990s work-for-the-dole scheme? Was this just a 'make-work' exercise?
Whatever the background is to this role - I should write MUG on my forehead. Afterall it was me who shelled out $65 to be told after a barely five minute consultation that my teeth were "very, very good" and then paid out another $150 to the Hygenist for her Colgate sales pitch.
So a word of advice - Next time your dentist suggests a visit to the Dental Hygentist, say thanks, but no thanks and just pick up the Colgate brochure instead.
So while on this high I caved in to the pressure to go to the "Dental Hygenist" as well. What a rock solid waste of time (and money!) that was.
If you are unfamiliar with the role of the Dental Hygenist, they basically do the work that dentists once did with the orbital sander/polisher hoobly device etc etc. But clearly they are also in the pocket of Colgate and other such multinationals! Throughout the whole experience she tried pushing their products on me - you should try COLGATE mouthwash (apparently Listerine isnt as good as "COLGATE brand"), and COLGATE electric toothbrushes and COLGATE floss.
She didnt seem to get my joke when I asked if she was getting kick-backs from Colgate - so maybe this means she is??
What really made me laugh though, is that she did nothing other than what dentists used to do to your teeth before they created this position. Which made me think, did the Dental Hygenist role come about during the Nat Govts 1990s work-for-the-dole scheme? Was this just a 'make-work' exercise?
Whatever the background is to this role - I should write MUG on my forehead. Afterall it was me who shelled out $65 to be told after a barely five minute consultation that my teeth were "very, very good" and then paid out another $150 to the Hygenist for her Colgate sales pitch.
So a word of advice - Next time your dentist suggests a visit to the Dental Hygentist, say thanks, but no thanks and just pick up the Colgate brochure instead.
Monday, September 24, 2007
Wednesday, September 19, 2007
Talk like a Pirate day
Arrrr
Today is of course international talk like a Pirate day me hearties.
One of my colleagues noted that he is probably the only person in Wellington to have captained a 'pirate' vessel - the HMAS Buccaneer. What a great name for a ship!
I have a quiz night tonight so im heading to Toyworld at lunchtime to get a Pirate hat (would be rude not to!).
Wikipedia have quite a good article on it here but what it drew my attention to was a new 'religion' Pastafarianism. The followers believe in the Flying Spaghetti Monster or the Spaghedeity.
Today is of course international talk like a Pirate day me hearties.
One of my colleagues noted that he is probably the only person in Wellington to have captained a 'pirate' vessel - the HMAS Buccaneer. What a great name for a ship!
I have a quiz night tonight so im heading to Toyworld at lunchtime to get a Pirate hat (would be rude not to!).
Wikipedia have quite a good article on it here but what it drew my attention to was a new 'religion' Pastafarianism. The followers believe in the Flying Spaghetti Monster or the Spaghedeity.
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
Nix vs Becks
Its official - on Sunday 2 December, David Beckham and the LA Galaxy will play Wellington Phoenix FC at the Ring of Fire (stadium).
Beckham is contracted to play at least 55 minutes. Kick ass!
Of course the Phoenix also notched up their first win over the weekend (should have been their second but never mind). Below is video of the goals - the second goal (Wellington's first) by Felipe was stunning. Check it out.
And if youre in Wellington - get along and support the team against Adelaide on Sunday and/or Perth Glory the following week.
Beckham is contracted to play at least 55 minutes. Kick ass!
Of course the Phoenix also notched up their first win over the weekend (should have been their second but never mind). Below is video of the goals - the second goal (Wellington's first) by Felipe was stunning. Check it out.
And if youre in Wellington - get along and support the team against Adelaide on Sunday and/or Perth Glory the following week.
Sun protection without looking silly
Granted, creams, lotions and cosmetics arent a common topic here, but this is possibly the greatest innovation since the roll-on. Just go with me on it...
The shiney nature of sunscreen has always been one of my many annoyances - you want to cover up and avoid sunburn, but do you really need to look like you just completed an ironman?
Well no longer! Yesterday one of my colleagues (who had clearly heard my rant on this topic) forwarded me the good news.
Neutrogena have released a 'matte' finish sunscreen, and you can get it at the supermarket. Oh happy day - no more shiney greasy summers.
Bask in the glorious emancipation from shiney summer skin!
Read all about it here
Monday, September 17, 2007
Cashback
The very efficient IRD have repaid me $1600 as I had over paid my loan when I made the final repayment in 2002.
It's hillarious, they have sent through my Loan statement as though it is in reference to recent events. It reads, 19/03/02 Repayment received - thank you, and then on 01/04/02 Interest write-off - 1655.05.
So it has only taken IRD five and a half years to update me on my 'current' Student Loan account - but better late than never.
I would like to say that the Milky Bars are on me and that it will be my shout - but my Credit Card has first dibs!
It's hillarious, they have sent through my Loan statement as though it is in reference to recent events. It reads, 19/03/02 Repayment received - thank you, and then on 01/04/02 Interest write-off - 1655.05.
So it has only taken IRD five and a half years to update me on my 'current' Student Loan account - but better late than never.
I would like to say that the Milky Bars are on me and that it will be my shout - but my Credit Card has first dibs!
Tuesday, September 04, 2007
She came third too!
After yesterdays rants its time for something lighter. This is probably in my all time top 5 You Tube vids... Miss South Carolina take it away. Such as...
Monday, September 03, 2007
A new career?
I spent most of Thursday and Friday at Victoria University's annual NZ Political Science Association conference and after that I've decided I want to be an academic.
I figure all you need to be able to do is;
1. Never hold a job in the real world, but always act as though you have.
2. Say really really obvious things over and over.
3. Speak for 20 minutes longer than you are supposed to.
4. Throw in a few sarcastic comments about 'politicians' everytime you speak, and of course
5. Always present yourself as an "expert" despite never having ever worked in a job related to your field of 'expertise'.
Simple.
I figure all you need to be able to do is;
1. Never hold a job in the real world, but always act as though you have.
2. Say really really obvious things over and over.
3. Speak for 20 minutes longer than you are supposed to.
4. Throw in a few sarcastic comments about 'politicians' everytime you speak, and of course
5. Always present yourself as an "expert" despite never having ever worked in a job related to your field of 'expertise'.
Simple.
Idiot media
Ive just read an article from yesterday's Herald on Sunday about the 'outrageous' prices Ricky Gervais is charging for his Edinburgh Fringe Festival "Fame" performance. This is the second thing ive heard about complaints, after Radio NZ had something similar saying all the usual - he's too big for his boots type of crap. God the media are pathetic, they scavenge about for any sniff of controversy and then can't help but beat it up out of any proportion.
Gervais is charging GBP37.50 per ticket - just over NZD100. Granted this is head an shoulders above other ticket prices.... but it's also completely sold out. Also, after the initial fuss Gervais said he will donate the profits to MacMillan Cancer Care - which the HoS greet as some sort of machiavellian conspiracy saying - "It is not clear how much of the GBP300 000 takings the charity will eventually receive." What the fuck else does he need to do??
The article also suggests Gervais hasn't earned his position as "King of Comedy" - which of course is a reference to Gervais appearing on a throne with a crown at the beginning of the show. Look at the name of the show - Fame - it's clearly tongue in cheek!
I agree with Gervais' manager who said on RNZ - What's the big deal? If the ticket price was too much, people wouldn't go. The Fringe Festival season is sold out. End of story.
Exactly.
Gervais is charging GBP37.50 per ticket - just over NZD100. Granted this is head an shoulders above other ticket prices.... but it's also completely sold out. Also, after the initial fuss Gervais said he will donate the profits to MacMillan Cancer Care - which the HoS greet as some sort of machiavellian conspiracy saying - "It is not clear how much of the GBP300 000 takings the charity will eventually receive." What the fuck else does he need to do??
The article also suggests Gervais hasn't earned his position as "King of Comedy" - which of course is a reference to Gervais appearing on a throne with a crown at the beginning of the show. Look at the name of the show - Fame - it's clearly tongue in cheek!
I agree with Gervais' manager who said on RNZ - What's the big deal? If the ticket price was too much, people wouldn't go. The Fringe Festival season is sold out. End of story.
Exactly.
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
Seven Mary Three to base
Finally! The greatest show in television history is coming to DVD on 12 September!! That's right baby - "CHiPs" series one with Jon and Ponch laying the smack down on Californian criminals.... well those on the highway at least. Issuing traffic infringement notices has never been more exciting.
I am literally buzzing with excitement to see the opening credits again. (Yes I know they are on You Tube, but its not the same). I had a "CHiPs" bike when I was a kid, it had a clip-on plastic 'petrol tank' to make it look pretty much exactly like a California Highway Patrol issue motorbike. Well I thought so anyway.
So exciting!
Oh and for the amateurs amongst you, 'Seven Mary Three' was of course Jon's call sign.
Monday, August 20, 2007
Where's a good protocol droid when you need one?
I have (against my better judgement) joined the Face Book "phenomenon". I still don't really get it. I guess since I have a blog, I feel that my self-indulgent-web-quota has been filled and that I don't really need a Face Book profile - but after much encouragement I joined anyway.
However, since joining I have been vexed by the protocols surrounding the whole thing. Today's copy of the Bulletin has an article on 'poking' people and asking people to be 'friends'. It suggests that just because someone was next to you in the queue at your supermarket, it doesn't mean you should be Face Book buddies. Quite right. But what point is the cut off? At what point do you approach people? Do you make like a wallflower and wait for people to approach you? Or do you go nuts and just start sending off invitations to your intermediate school classmates?
And if you see people you know, you then ask yourself - well why haven't they added me themselves? Did I piss them off? Has my mind deleted some 'incident' where I 'wronged' this person? Or was it them, who crossed me? Do I actually hate this person? Have I simply forgotten my deep-seated hatred for their existence? I can't remember - I haven't seen them in nearly 8 years!
This has just added another complex layer to the lives of the socially awkward.
However, since joining I have been vexed by the protocols surrounding the whole thing. Today's copy of the Bulletin has an article on 'poking' people and asking people to be 'friends'. It suggests that just because someone was next to you in the queue at your supermarket, it doesn't mean you should be Face Book buddies. Quite right. But what point is the cut off? At what point do you approach people? Do you make like a wallflower and wait for people to approach you? Or do you go nuts and just start sending off invitations to your intermediate school classmates?
And if you see people you know, you then ask yourself - well why haven't they added me themselves? Did I piss them off? Has my mind deleted some 'incident' where I 'wronged' this person? Or was it them, who crossed me? Do I actually hate this person? Have I simply forgotten my deep-seated hatred for their existence? I can't remember - I haven't seen them in nearly 8 years!
This has just added another complex layer to the lives of the socially awkward.
Sunday, August 19, 2007
Those Crafty Hutt people
Yesterday I popped over to the glorious Hutt Valley to check out Craft 2.0 at the Dowse and I was mighty impressed.Showcasing local crafters, is a fantastic idea and its fair to say I spent some moolah. Now before I go on, these weren't crafts of the drift-wood-coat-rack-come-shoe-rack variety... no no this was much cooler.
There were loads of great stalls, but for me one stood out - Trixie Delicious and their Vandalised Vintage range. Pictured is the one I bought - theyre old school plates that they have 'vandalised' with words like Fuckface, R16, Pervert, Marnus and so on - but I couldnt go past 'Retard'.
I was thinking about putting it up in my office, but im not sure my co-workers could handle it!
Thursday, August 16, 2007
Peter Kay's Universal Truths
Just got forwarded this on 'the email', too good not to share. It's UK comedian Peter Kay (Phoenix Nights) Seinfeld-esque universal truths. enjoy
PETER KAY'S 35 UNIVERSAL TRUTHS:
1) Triangular sandwiches taste better than square ones.
2) At the end of every party there is always a girl crying.
3) One of the most awkward things that can happen in a pub is when your pint-to-toilet cycle gets synchronised with a complete stranger.
4) You've never quite sure whether it's ok to eat green crisps.
5) Everyone who grew up in the 80's has entered the digits 55378008 into a calculator.
6) Reading when you're drunk is horrible.
7) Sharpening a pencil with a knife makes you feel really manly.
8) You're never quite sure whether it's against the law or not to have a fire in your back garden.
10) Nobody ever dares make cup-a-soup in a bowl.
11) You never know where to look when eating a banana.
12) Its impossible to describe the smell of a wet cat.
13) Prodding a fire with a stick makes you feel manly.
14) Rummaging in an overgrown garden will always turn up a bouncy ball.
15) You always feel a bit scared when stroking horses.
16) Everyone always remembers the day a dog ran into your school.
17) The most embarrassing thing you can do as schoolchild is to call your teacher mum or dad.
18) The smaller the monkey the more it looks like it would kill you at the first given opportunity.
19) Some days you see lots of people on crutches.
20) Every bloke has at some stage while taking a pee flushed half way through and then raced against the flush.
21) Old women with mobile phones look wrong!
22) Its impossible to look cool whilst picking up a Frisbee.
23) Driving through a tunnel makes you feel excited.
24) You never ever run out of salt.
25) Old ladies can eat more than you think.
26) You can't respect a man who carries a dog.
27) There's no panic like the panic you momentarily feel when you've got your hand or head stuck in something.
28) No one knows the origins of their metal coat hangers.
29) Despite constant warning, you have never met anybody who has had their arm broken by a swan.
30) The most painful household incident is wearing socks and stepping on an upturned plug.
31) People who don't drive slam car doors too hard
32) You've turned into your dad the day you put aside a thin piece of wood specifically to stir paint with.
33) Everyone had an uncle who tried to steal their nose.
34) Bricks are horrible to carry.
35) In every plate of chips there is a bad chip.
PETER KAY'S 35 UNIVERSAL TRUTHS:
1) Triangular sandwiches taste better than square ones.
2) At the end of every party there is always a girl crying.
3) One of the most awkward things that can happen in a pub is when your pint-to-toilet cycle gets synchronised with a complete stranger.
4) You've never quite sure whether it's ok to eat green crisps.
5) Everyone who grew up in the 80's has entered the digits 55378008 into a calculator.
6) Reading when you're drunk is horrible.
7) Sharpening a pencil with a knife makes you feel really manly.
8) You're never quite sure whether it's against the law or not to have a fire in your back garden.
10) Nobody ever dares make cup-a-soup in a bowl.
11) You never know where to look when eating a banana.
12) Its impossible to describe the smell of a wet cat.
13) Prodding a fire with a stick makes you feel manly.
14) Rummaging in an overgrown garden will always turn up a bouncy ball.
15) You always feel a bit scared when stroking horses.
16) Everyone always remembers the day a dog ran into your school.
17) The most embarrassing thing you can do as schoolchild is to call your teacher mum or dad.
18) The smaller the monkey the more it looks like it would kill you at the first given opportunity.
19) Some days you see lots of people on crutches.
20) Every bloke has at some stage while taking a pee flushed half way through and then raced against the flush.
21) Old women with mobile phones look wrong!
22) Its impossible to look cool whilst picking up a Frisbee.
23) Driving through a tunnel makes you feel excited.
24) You never ever run out of salt.
25) Old ladies can eat more than you think.
26) You can't respect a man who carries a dog.
27) There's no panic like the panic you momentarily feel when you've got your hand or head stuck in something.
28) No one knows the origins of their metal coat hangers.
29) Despite constant warning, you have never met anybody who has had their arm broken by a swan.
30) The most painful household incident is wearing socks and stepping on an upturned plug.
31) People who don't drive slam car doors too hard
32) You've turned into your dad the day you put aside a thin piece of wood specifically to stir paint with.
33) Everyone had an uncle who tried to steal their nose.
34) Bricks are horrible to carry.
35) In every plate of chips there is a bad chip.
How good is the Phoenix?
Yet to even play a proper A-League match, the Phoenix has (according to todays Dominion) booked David Beckham and the LA Galaxy to play an exhibition match in Wellington in November.
After spending stupid amounts of money on getting Beckham, the Galaxy are taking him on a world tour playing exhibition matches to make some dosh. One of their first stops is Sydney, to play A-League side, Sydney FC, and apparently Wellington legend Terry Serepisos has jumped on this and is in talks to chuck in a Wellington leg. By "in talks" I mean theyre determining how much cash the Phoenix will have to stump up.
What better way to promote football and the Wellington Phoenix, than getting David Beckham to town? Fantastic. This is great for football and great for Wellington.
This is all the more better as the biggest Beckham fan that I know, wont actually be in New Zealand. As Cartman would say - Oh your tears, they taste so good!
After spending stupid amounts of money on getting Beckham, the Galaxy are taking him on a world tour playing exhibition matches to make some dosh. One of their first stops is Sydney, to play A-League side, Sydney FC, and apparently Wellington legend Terry Serepisos has jumped on this and is in talks to chuck in a Wellington leg. By "in talks" I mean theyre determining how much cash the Phoenix will have to stump up.
What better way to promote football and the Wellington Phoenix, than getting David Beckham to town? Fantastic. This is great for football and great for Wellington.
This is all the more better as the biggest Beckham fan that I know, wont actually be in New Zealand. As Cartman would say - Oh your tears, they taste so good!
Wednesday, August 15, 2007
Chekhov's Seagull
I went and saw the Royal Shakespeare Company's version of Chekhov's The Seagull last night at the St James Theatre.
Of course the 'star' of the show (and reason most people were there) was Sir Ian McKellen, as the old man Sorin. It was a masterful performance by Gandalf, who appeared to be having the time of his life playing with the character. But out of the 20-30 strong ensemble cast it was Madame Arkadina (Sorin's sister) that stood out for me. She was hilarious and even sounded a little like Dame Judy Dench at times.
Wasn't all daisys though - there were six cell phone rings (three were from one person), and an annoying woman in front of me who leaned forward so far that she actually covered half my view of the stage - not to mention her slugging back water in a pump bottle (with full sucking and bottle scrunching sounds). Heathens.
Not too worry though as the RSC performance was so good that it didnt really matter.
Monday, August 13, 2007
Tony Wilson
It needs to be noted that Tony Wilson passed away last Friday.
Wilson was a revolutionary figure in the music industry, he arguably discovered the Sex Pistols in 1976, after seeing them at a small gig in Manchester he invited them on his TV show - which basically launched them.
He set up Factory Records and managed several acts that changed the face music including Joy Division, the Happy Mondays and of course New Order. He also co-owned the infamous Hacienda night club in Manchester - "where the white man learnt to dance". You could argue that through his exploits, Wilson invented the rave and club culture as we know it. The club has has been demolished and replaced by appartments. I still remember the bemused looks on the faces of Chris and Bridget when I stayed with them in Manchester, after I took a photo of the very plain looking block of appartments!
The movie 24hr Party People is all about his career - you should check it out.
Wilson was a revolutionary figure in the music industry, he arguably discovered the Sex Pistols in 1976, after seeing them at a small gig in Manchester he invited them on his TV show - which basically launched them.
He set up Factory Records and managed several acts that changed the face music including Joy Division, the Happy Mondays and of course New Order. He also co-owned the infamous Hacienda night club in Manchester - "where the white man learnt to dance". You could argue that through his exploits, Wilson invented the rave and club culture as we know it. The club has has been demolished and replaced by appartments. I still remember the bemused looks on the faces of Chris and Bridget when I stayed with them in Manchester, after I took a photo of the very plain looking block of appartments!
The movie 24hr Party People is all about his career - you should check it out.
Little bit apples and oranges
I went and saw a preview screening of Michael Moore's new doco - Sicko. Its all about health services in the US and how crap they are. It made me think of a couple of things.
Moore really annoys me at times through his generalisations and see-no-evil approach to European countries - and Canada. Yes the NHS is great, and is held in very high regard in Britain - but its not perfect. Same with Canada, in fact they have they much the same issues we have here - long waiting lists etc, staff retention issues, but yes it is a pretty good system.
Then there is France, one of the most subsidised countries in the world. Economically, France has underperformed in the last 20-30 years - arguably because of the heavy state involvement in the economy (their farmers are still subsidised at pre 1980s NZ levels). The French are now largely reliant on Govt subsidies. So its apples and oranges to compare the US health system with these countries, they are all structured differently and all have their own issues.
In saying that, the US system is an absolute disgrace. It is based on the good old Tory myth that there is no such thing as bad luck - if something goes wrong in your life, its because you fucked up (hence no need for a safety net - you should have worked harder).
At the very least the state should provide free emergency health services. What kind of country bills someone for ambulatory and emergency department care related to a car accident??
I was pleased that Moore chose to travel to Cuba as well. The most maligned country in the world, just happens to have the some of the best health and education services in the world. In fact for the large part NZ's Primary Health care Strategy and PHOs are based on Cuba's approach. Essentially its about cheap/free primary care (doctors/nurses visits) - catching illnesses early rather than putting prohibitive costs between patients and care (meaning illnesses get worse/need surgery etc etc).
But the policies of the US were the model for the Bolger National government in the 1990s - user pays. Which is the second thought I had. Tony Ryall has made no secret of National's plans to re-privatise ACC (despite it being a failure the first time). So who will be surprised if ACC providers start denying people coverage on the basis of some fine-print clause in your agreement?
While we may not always get it right with health care, there are fundamentals that need to be upheld. As the US shows us, most people will choose to make their basic ends meet (power bills/mortgages/food for your kids) before putting money into health insurance on the off chance they will one day need it. This is why the state MUST provide coverage.
I don't believe for a second that National has changed their spots on health care, and Sicko, for all its flaws is a timely reminder of what will be at stake in 2008. Go and see Sicko, take Moore's comparisons with other countries for what they are, but reflect on what sort of country we want here. National, like the US, will use health as a revenue gathering machine to make up for their cuts to taxation. Health should be solely about making people better, not making a buck. Unfortunately this is again the choice we will be facing in 2008.
Moore really annoys me at times through his generalisations and see-no-evil approach to European countries - and Canada. Yes the NHS is great, and is held in very high regard in Britain - but its not perfect. Same with Canada, in fact they have they much the same issues we have here - long waiting lists etc, staff retention issues, but yes it is a pretty good system.
Then there is France, one of the most subsidised countries in the world. Economically, France has underperformed in the last 20-30 years - arguably because of the heavy state involvement in the economy (their farmers are still subsidised at pre 1980s NZ levels). The French are now largely reliant on Govt subsidies. So its apples and oranges to compare the US health system with these countries, they are all structured differently and all have their own issues.
In saying that, the US system is an absolute disgrace. It is based on the good old Tory myth that there is no such thing as bad luck - if something goes wrong in your life, its because you fucked up (hence no need for a safety net - you should have worked harder).
At the very least the state should provide free emergency health services. What kind of country bills someone for ambulatory and emergency department care related to a car accident??
I was pleased that Moore chose to travel to Cuba as well. The most maligned country in the world, just happens to have the some of the best health and education services in the world. In fact for the large part NZ's Primary Health care Strategy and PHOs are based on Cuba's approach. Essentially its about cheap/free primary care (doctors/nurses visits) - catching illnesses early rather than putting prohibitive costs between patients and care (meaning illnesses get worse/need surgery etc etc).
But the policies of the US were the model for the Bolger National government in the 1990s - user pays. Which is the second thought I had. Tony Ryall has made no secret of National's plans to re-privatise ACC (despite it being a failure the first time). So who will be surprised if ACC providers start denying people coverage on the basis of some fine-print clause in your agreement?
While we may not always get it right with health care, there are fundamentals that need to be upheld. As the US shows us, most people will choose to make their basic ends meet (power bills/mortgages/food for your kids) before putting money into health insurance on the off chance they will one day need it. This is why the state MUST provide coverage.
I don't believe for a second that National has changed their spots on health care, and Sicko, for all its flaws is a timely reminder of what will be at stake in 2008. Go and see Sicko, take Moore's comparisons with other countries for what they are, but reflect on what sort of country we want here. National, like the US, will use health as a revenue gathering machine to make up for their cuts to taxation. Health should be solely about making people better, not making a buck. Unfortunately this is again the choice we will be facing in 2008.
Saturday, August 11, 2007
Blowin in the Wind
Given todays weather I think the title is very appropriate!
Last night was Bob Dylan at Queens Wharf, pretty much kicked ass. Before the concert I had read a Chch Press review of his Christchurch gig, which highlighted how Bob doesnt really interact with his audience.... turns out thats true, although he did introduce the band at the end.... well kinda - "Meeh neh meh he from tennessee" sorta thing.
Anyway it was a great concert. His backing band ruled - the dude on lead guitar was fantastic - as Wayne and Garth would say - he could wail! It was kinda like five or six old dudes jamming the blues.
Lay Lady Lay was a highlight, as was My Back Pages and Highway 61 - but of course it was the very appropriate closing - Blowin in the Wind that stole the show for me.
Bob is still the epitome of cool!
Last night was Bob Dylan at Queens Wharf, pretty much kicked ass. Before the concert I had read a Chch Press review of his Christchurch gig, which highlighted how Bob doesnt really interact with his audience.... turns out thats true, although he did introduce the band at the end.... well kinda - "Meeh neh meh he from tennessee" sorta thing.
Anyway it was a great concert. His backing band ruled - the dude on lead guitar was fantastic - as Wayne and Garth would say - he could wail! It was kinda like five or six old dudes jamming the blues.
Lay Lady Lay was a highlight, as was My Back Pages and Highway 61 - but of course it was the very appropriate closing - Blowin in the Wind that stole the show for me.
Bob is still the epitome of cool!
Friday, August 10, 2007
A Question
Im a fan of the redevelopment of our major sporting facilities ahead of the 2011 Rugby World Cup and the 2015 Cricket World Cup, but I have a question.
Auckland's Eden Park is getting a big flash new Buck-Rogers-Stand and will be the main stadium during the Rugby, and the newly named AMI Stadium (Previously Jade/Lancaster Park) is also getting an Athfield designed new eastern stand (pictured).
The budget for Eden Park is approx NZD190 million. The budget for AMI Stadium is NZD60 million. Now granted the Eden Park stand is about 7000 seats bigger (24000 compared to 17000), but surely there can't be that much difference??
Why is there a NZD130 m difference between a Christchurch project and an Auckland one? This of course begs the question - why not get more bang for your buck and spend your NZD190m between Wellington and Christchurch? - you would get a hell of a lot more.
Thursday, August 09, 2007
Clear choices
The chart below is taken from the 2decide.com site and covers the positions of the various candidates for the Presidency on several key issues including, abortion, Iraq etc etc.
The candidates to look out for are - Clinton, Obama and Edwards for the Dems and Giuliani, Thompson, and Romney for the GOP - the others will likely fade.
Click on it to make it bigger etc
The candidates to look out for are - Clinton, Obama and Edwards for the Dems and Giuliani, Thompson, and Romney for the GOP - the others will likely fade.
Click on it to make it bigger etc
Wednesday, August 08, 2007
Tuesday, August 07, 2007
Luggage
Ive been meaning to put this down since the weekend, but hadnt got around to it - What is wrong with people?
Why do people insist on taking so much carry-on luggage on flights? Any flight you go on, I guarantee that half of those on board will have those small bags with the extendable handle and two wheels that they then have to force into the overhead locker - why not just check it on? What could you not possibly do without during the flight? They never seem get anything down mid flight - so why do you need it?
There's always that person too, who tries to roll their bag down the aisle - and it generally takes them till the fifth row before they realise the 30cm aisle gap isnt really wide enough for what they are trying to do.
Carry on luggage - its up there with comic-sans font for sheer annoyance factor
Why do people insist on taking so much carry-on luggage on flights? Any flight you go on, I guarantee that half of those on board will have those small bags with the extendable handle and two wheels that they then have to force into the overhead locker - why not just check it on? What could you not possibly do without during the flight? They never seem get anything down mid flight - so why do you need it?
There's always that person too, who tries to roll their bag down the aisle - and it generally takes them till the fifth row before they realise the 30cm aisle gap isnt really wide enough for what they are trying to do.
Carry on luggage - its up there with comic-sans font for sheer annoyance factor
Wednesday, August 01, 2007
Money, money, money
Of late a few people "in the know" had talked up former Tennessee Senator and Law and Order TV star, Fred Thompson, as a real contender for the GOP presidential nomination, going so far as to say he could actually beat Clinton or Obama.
So I raised this with a few people including a friend of mine who is based in New York and works for a polling company - he put it bluntly - "he hasnt formally announced, and he doesnt have the cash. At the moment he has nothing." My initial thought was that, well once he announces, the cash will come - its not like there is a shortage of cash in the Republicans.
Last night Thompson's "exploratory committee" (its what you set up to lay the foundations for tilt at the nomination) announced what they had raised over their first two months - USD3 million. Now by our standards that would be enormous... but when Clinton has raised USD46m and Obama is in the 40s as well, Thompson is soooo far behind that it isnt funny. This is at a time when previous GOP favourite, Senator McCain's team is falling apart having only raised USD12m!
And while time is on Thompson's side - he's going to be pushing it up hill from here and will need to quickly build momentum.
I guess this leaves one huge problem for the Republicans - who else? Giuliani is too liberal (pro-choice, anti gun, pro gay) and allegedly has soo much crap in his closet he is going to have to do extensions. Mitt Romney is a hypocrite (pro choice while running for Governor in the liberal leaning state of Massachusetts/pro life now he is trying to woo the red necks) also (with due respect to certain readers) he is a mormon which doesnt go down well with many given its minority status (he also wears the underwear). John McCain is bleeding senior staff, who seem to be jumping ship, and he is strugling to raise money.
So it may be that Thompson comes through as the best of a bad bunch, but with the huge funding headstart that the Dems have, the GOP are going to have to really pick it up and unite behind a candidate to stay in the game. As an indication of how huge the Dem war chests are - USD20m was considered a "large" campaign in the 90s and early 2000s - as I said, both Clinton and Obama are plus 40m.
So I raised this with a few people including a friend of mine who is based in New York and works for a polling company - he put it bluntly - "he hasnt formally announced, and he doesnt have the cash. At the moment he has nothing." My initial thought was that, well once he announces, the cash will come - its not like there is a shortage of cash in the Republicans.
Last night Thompson's "exploratory committee" (its what you set up to lay the foundations for tilt at the nomination) announced what they had raised over their first two months - USD3 million. Now by our standards that would be enormous... but when Clinton has raised USD46m and Obama is in the 40s as well, Thompson is soooo far behind that it isnt funny. This is at a time when previous GOP favourite, Senator McCain's team is falling apart having only raised USD12m!
And while time is on Thompson's side - he's going to be pushing it up hill from here and will need to quickly build momentum.
I guess this leaves one huge problem for the Republicans - who else? Giuliani is too liberal (pro-choice, anti gun, pro gay) and allegedly has soo much crap in his closet he is going to have to do extensions. Mitt Romney is a hypocrite (pro choice while running for Governor in the liberal leaning state of Massachusetts/pro life now he is trying to woo the red necks) also (with due respect to certain readers) he is a mormon which doesnt go down well with many given its minority status (he also wears the underwear). John McCain is bleeding senior staff, who seem to be jumping ship, and he is strugling to raise money.
So it may be that Thompson comes through as the best of a bad bunch, but with the huge funding headstart that the Dems have, the GOP are going to have to really pick it up and unite behind a candidate to stay in the game. As an indication of how huge the Dem war chests are - USD20m was considered a "large" campaign in the 90s and early 2000s - as I said, both Clinton and Obama are plus 40m.
Tuesday, July 31, 2007
Unlikely but would be great
With all the speculation around what the Cabinet reshuffle will hold - here's my twopence. It isnt so much a prediction but more about what Id like to see!
Cabinet
1. Helen Clark - Prime Minister, Arts Culture and Heritage
2. Phil Goff - Deputy Prime Minister, Finance
3. Annette King - Education, State Services, Transport
4. Trevor Mallard - Leader of the House, Justice, Treaty Negotiations, Sport and Rec
5. David Cunliffe - Economic Development, Auckland Issues, Communications/IT
6. Ruth Dyson - Health
7. Pete Hodgson - Labour, SOEs, ACC, Broadcasting, Building Issues
8. Jim Anderton - Trade Negotiations
9. Clayton Cosgrove - Police, Defence, Corrections
10. Lianne Dalziel - Social Development and Employment
11. David Parker - Conservation, Environment, Energy
12. Damien O’Connor - Agriculture, Fisheries, Forestry
13. Nanaia Mahuta - Maori Affairs, Youth Affairs, Customs
14. Chris Carter - Immigration, Ethnic Affairs, Senior Citizens, Disabilities
15. Shane Jones - Commerce, Tourism, Small Business
16. Steve Chadwick - Housing, Internal Affairs, Local Government
17. Maryan Street - Tertiary Education, Research Science & Technology, Food Safety, Archives, National Library
18. Charles Chauvel - Attorney General, Pacific Island Affairs, Land Information, Statistics
Outside Cabinet
19. Luamanuvao Winnie Laban - Community and Voluntary Sector, Women’s Affairs, Consumer Affairs, Associate PI Affairs
20. Harry Duynhoven - Transport Safety
21. Darren Hughes - Associate Economic and Regional Development, Associate Transport
22. Mahara Okeroa - Associate Arts, Associate Maori Affairs
What becomes of the broken hearted?
Steve Maharey - Chief Strategist, Labour Party President
Michael Cullen - Speaker of the House
Goneburgers
Wilson, Horomia, Burton, Barker, Benson-Pope, Tizard, Samuels, Ririnui
Of course this is purely fun and about what I would do - I would be hugely surprised if the reshuffle looked anything like this!
Cabinet
1. Helen Clark - Prime Minister, Arts Culture and Heritage
2. Phil Goff - Deputy Prime Minister, Finance
3. Annette King - Education, State Services, Transport
4. Trevor Mallard - Leader of the House, Justice, Treaty Negotiations, Sport and Rec
5. David Cunliffe - Economic Development, Auckland Issues, Communications/IT
6. Ruth Dyson - Health
7. Pete Hodgson - Labour, SOEs, ACC, Broadcasting, Building Issues
8. Jim Anderton - Trade Negotiations
9. Clayton Cosgrove - Police, Defence, Corrections
10. Lianne Dalziel - Social Development and Employment
11. David Parker - Conservation, Environment, Energy
12. Damien O’Connor - Agriculture, Fisheries, Forestry
13. Nanaia Mahuta - Maori Affairs, Youth Affairs, Customs
14. Chris Carter - Immigration, Ethnic Affairs, Senior Citizens, Disabilities
15. Shane Jones - Commerce, Tourism, Small Business
16. Steve Chadwick - Housing, Internal Affairs, Local Government
17. Maryan Street - Tertiary Education, Research Science & Technology, Food Safety, Archives, National Library
18. Charles Chauvel - Attorney General, Pacific Island Affairs, Land Information, Statistics
Outside Cabinet
19. Luamanuvao Winnie Laban - Community and Voluntary Sector, Women’s Affairs, Consumer Affairs, Associate PI Affairs
20. Harry Duynhoven - Transport Safety
21. Darren Hughes - Associate Economic and Regional Development, Associate Transport
22. Mahara Okeroa - Associate Arts, Associate Maori Affairs
What becomes of the broken hearted?
Steve Maharey - Chief Strategist, Labour Party President
Michael Cullen - Speaker of the House
Goneburgers
Wilson, Horomia, Burton, Barker, Benson-Pope, Tizard, Samuels, Ririnui
Of course this is purely fun and about what I would do - I would be hugely surprised if the reshuffle looked anything like this!
Monday, July 30, 2007
Wellington Computer recycling day
On Saturday 29 September between 9am and 3pm you will be able to safely dump all your old computer/mobile phone gear.
The 2020 Communications Trust are running their annual recycling day at the Westpac Stadium carpark - so be a tidy kiwi!
The 2020 Communications Trust are running their annual recycling day at the Westpac Stadium carpark - so be a tidy kiwi!
Better late than never
I had a week off blogging last week - it wasnt intentional, just usual laziness but anyway, The film festival is of course on at the moment, and Ive seen three films (plus another non-festival film - unacceptable infidelity I know).
Last week I went and saw Wellington (represent yo) director, Taika Waititi's (of Two Cars/One Night fame) new film - Eagle vs Shark and god it was good. Granted, it is basically a NZ Napolean Dynamite - but fantastic all the same. Some of the Velvet paintings of Tigers, Sharks and Unicorns are definitely from the Rhodes school of design.... (i know the whole minimalism is really a cover for the velvet wall hangings). One of the best bits has to be the video game where there is a Maori warrior firing lasers from a Taiaha, or the "best computer hacker in town" who uses Windows 95 (with full YNANG YNANG warming up grinding and porn site pop ups) -"Theres porn on your computer bro".
Yesterday I did a back-to-back double feature - starting off with the disturbing Jesus Camp which was all about kids going off to be indoctrinated into fundamentalist christianity. Pretty scary stuff (Harry Potter = evil, Abortion = evil, Gays = evil and so on - you get the idea). On the whole it was pretty good, but at times the movie also tells you what to think - there is a radio interviewer rambling in parts providing bridging clips, telling us how fundys and bad, and George Bush is bad (they pray over a life size carboard cut out of him btw) etc etc. This was unecessary though - you couldnt help but arrive at those conclusions anyway - so why force it down peoples throats?
Watch the trailer
And lastly the second part of the double feature was Severance which has been billed as The Office meets Deliverance. Its about a group of seven or so office workers who go on a team-building exercise in the Hungarian wilderness. Obviously things go awry with people getting killed etc but its also pretty damn funny too. The best bit has to be when one of them gets caught in a gin trap - and they try unsuccessfully to free him by pulling it open, only for it to slam shut again..... five times.
Trailer here
On the whole three pretty good films out of three. Next up is Manufacturing Dissent on Wednesday which started off as a positive piece about Michael Moore - only to turn into quite a negative piece about him, the holes in his films etc etc. Im sure its as biased as well.... a Moore film but should be a good watch all the same!
Last week I went and saw Wellington (represent yo) director, Taika Waititi's (of Two Cars/One Night fame) new film - Eagle vs Shark and god it was good. Granted, it is basically a NZ Napolean Dynamite - but fantastic all the same. Some of the Velvet paintings of Tigers, Sharks and Unicorns are definitely from the Rhodes school of design.... (i know the whole minimalism is really a cover for the velvet wall hangings). One of the best bits has to be the video game where there is a Maori warrior firing lasers from a Taiaha, or the "best computer hacker in town" who uses Windows 95 (with full YNANG YNANG warming up grinding and porn site pop ups) -"Theres porn on your computer bro".
Yesterday I did a back-to-back double feature - starting off with the disturbing Jesus Camp which was all about kids going off to be indoctrinated into fundamentalist christianity. Pretty scary stuff (Harry Potter = evil, Abortion = evil, Gays = evil and so on - you get the idea). On the whole it was pretty good, but at times the movie also tells you what to think - there is a radio interviewer rambling in parts providing bridging clips, telling us how fundys and bad, and George Bush is bad (they pray over a life size carboard cut out of him btw) etc etc. This was unecessary though - you couldnt help but arrive at those conclusions anyway - so why force it down peoples throats?
Watch the trailer
And lastly the second part of the double feature was Severance which has been billed as The Office meets Deliverance. Its about a group of seven or so office workers who go on a team-building exercise in the Hungarian wilderness. Obviously things go awry with people getting killed etc but its also pretty damn funny too. The best bit has to be when one of them gets caught in a gin trap - and they try unsuccessfully to free him by pulling it open, only for it to slam shut again..... five times.
Trailer here
On the whole three pretty good films out of three. Next up is Manufacturing Dissent on Wednesday which started off as a positive piece about Michael Moore - only to turn into quite a negative piece about him, the holes in his films etc etc. Im sure its as biased as well.... a Moore film but should be a good watch all the same!
Thursday, July 19, 2007
Wednesday, July 18, 2007
George Martin
Ive been watching the Beatles Anthology and it reminded me of a skit on Big Train about George Martin going on and on and on about the Beatles. here goes.. very funny
This has to be a joke
China is to fire rockets into the sky to disperse rain clouds during the 2008 Beijing Olympics.
Apparently the Chinese Government guaranteed good weather.... and this is how theyre going to do it.
It reminds me of an episode of The Games when John Clarke offered to move the hole in the ozone layer for the duration of the Sydney Olympics ("out to sea or something") to appease European concerns over skin cancer and exposure to the sun.
Story on Stuff here about the Chinese. The headline is - China to zap rainclouds with rockets. Fantastic!
Apparently the Chinese Government guaranteed good weather.... and this is how theyre going to do it.
It reminds me of an episode of The Games when John Clarke offered to move the hole in the ozone layer for the duration of the Sydney Olympics ("out to sea or something") to appease European concerns over skin cancer and exposure to the sun.
Story on Stuff here about the Chinese. The headline is - China to zap rainclouds with rockets. Fantastic!
Sunday, July 15, 2007
Further anniversary weekend goodness
Today we have a new anniversary weekend feature... albums of year*
This year we only have three that have made the cut as follows
Arctic Monkeys - Favourite Worst Nightmare
Jarvis Cocker - The Jarvis Cocker Record
*To be eligible the album has to have been released between 16 July 2006 and 2007.
This year we only have three that have made the cut as follows
Arctic Monkeys - Favourite Worst Nightmare
Jarvis Cocker - The Jarvis Cocker Record
*To be eligible the album has to have been released between 16 July 2006 and 2007.
Friday, July 13, 2007
Anniversary Weekend Top 50
As this weekend is of course Anniversary Weekend, its time for the annual Top 50 tracks!
50. Pulp, This is Hardcore
49. Belle and Sebastian, Act of the Apostle
48. Badly Drawn Boy, Once Around the Block
47. Beta Band, Dry the Rain
46. Elastica, Stutter
45. Ocean Colour Scene, Travellers Tune
44. Ben Harper, By My Side
43. Ocean Colour Scene, You've Got it Bad
42. Radiohead, High and Dry
41. Oasis, Do You Know What I Mean?
40. Smashing Pumpkins, 1979
39. Mazzy Star, Fade into You
38. Radiohead, Climbing Up the Walls
37. Belle and Sebastian, Boy with the Arab Strap
36. Ryan Adams, The End
35. Oasis, Songbird
34. The Smiths, This Charming Man
33. Ocean Colour Scene, The Day We Caught the Train
32. Blondie, Atomic
31. Ben Harper, Where Could I Go?
30. Aimee Mann, Save Me
29. The Beatles, Sexy Sadie
28. Johnny Cash, Hurt
27. The Beatles, Here Comes the Sun
26. Skunk Anansie, Hedonism
25. The Smiths, There is a Light that Never Goes Out
24. Arctic Monkeys, A Certain Romance
23. Ben Harper, Forgiven
22. Fleetwood Mac, Landslide
21. Ryan Adams, Blue Sky Blues
20. Pulp, Common People
19. The Flaming Lips, Do You Realise?
18. The Beatles, Blackbird
17. Radiohead, Street Spirit (Fade Out)
16. The Smiths, How Soon is Now
15. Marvin Gaye, Lets Get it On
14. Radiohead, Air Bag
13. Oasis, Live Forever
12. Nirvana, All Apologies
11. Radiohead, Creep
10. The Byrds, The Ballad of Easy Rider
9. Badly Drawn Boy, A Minor Incident
8. Oasis, Cigarettes and Alcohol
7. Marvin Gaye, What's Goin On
6. The Beatles, Two of Us
5. The Byrds, Eight Miles High
4. Aimee Mann, Wise Up
3. Radiohead, Pyramid Song
2. Nirvana, Smells Like Teen Spirit
1. Oasis, Supersonic
50. Pulp, This is Hardcore
49. Belle and Sebastian, Act of the Apostle
48. Badly Drawn Boy, Once Around the Block
47. Beta Band, Dry the Rain
46. Elastica, Stutter
45. Ocean Colour Scene, Travellers Tune
44. Ben Harper, By My Side
43. Ocean Colour Scene, You've Got it Bad
42. Radiohead, High and Dry
41. Oasis, Do You Know What I Mean?
40. Smashing Pumpkins, 1979
39. Mazzy Star, Fade into You
38. Radiohead, Climbing Up the Walls
37. Belle and Sebastian, Boy with the Arab Strap
36. Ryan Adams, The End
35. Oasis, Songbird
34. The Smiths, This Charming Man
33. Ocean Colour Scene, The Day We Caught the Train
32. Blondie, Atomic
31. Ben Harper, Where Could I Go?
30. Aimee Mann, Save Me
29. The Beatles, Sexy Sadie
28. Johnny Cash, Hurt
27. The Beatles, Here Comes the Sun
26. Skunk Anansie, Hedonism
25. The Smiths, There is a Light that Never Goes Out
24. Arctic Monkeys, A Certain Romance
23. Ben Harper, Forgiven
22. Fleetwood Mac, Landslide
21. Ryan Adams, Blue Sky Blues
20. Pulp, Common People
19. The Flaming Lips, Do You Realise?
18. The Beatles, Blackbird
17. Radiohead, Street Spirit (Fade Out)
16. The Smiths, How Soon is Now
15. Marvin Gaye, Lets Get it On
14. Radiohead, Air Bag
13. Oasis, Live Forever
12. Nirvana, All Apologies
11. Radiohead, Creep
10. The Byrds, The Ballad of Easy Rider
9. Badly Drawn Boy, A Minor Incident
8. Oasis, Cigarettes and Alcohol
7. Marvin Gaye, What's Goin On
6. The Beatles, Two of Us
5. The Byrds, Eight Miles High
4. Aimee Mann, Wise Up
3. Radiohead, Pyramid Song
2. Nirvana, Smells Like Teen Spirit
1. Oasis, Supersonic
Thursday, July 12, 2007
A bold prediction
Right so we're about 12-14 months out from the next election and currently the Nats are unquestionably in pole position with a good 15 point lead. However its my feeling that their lead will only hold up until they start releasing their fundamental policy positions ie will we have cash registers back in hospitals? will they scrap the KiwiSaver tax credits? what state assets will they sell off? will we have widespread roadtolls? (in Sydney for example average car users can pay around A$100 a week in tolls - so will the Nats reduce taxes but slap on new ones in the form of tolls? will that make anyone better off?) what happens with interest free student loans? and so on and so forth. At some point they will have to release policy.
I think in all likelihood National will be the largest party, but there is an element of over-inflation in their polling.
So what will happen? Here's my prediction for the election night result in 2008
National 43 per cent (51 seats)
Labour 38 per cent (46 seats)
Greens 8 per cent (10 seats)
NZ First 5 per cent (6 seats)
Maori Party 2.5 per cent (5 seats - they will win Te Tai Tonga as well as their current 4)
ACT 1.5 per cent (2 seats)
United Future 1 per cent (1 seat)
Progressive 0.8 per cent (1 seat)
So this is how it will line up (total seats 122)
LEFT
Labour (46) + Greens (10) + Progressive (1) = 57 seats
RIGHT
National (51) + ACT (2) = 53 seats
CENTRE
NZ First (6) + Maori (5) + United Future (1) = 12 seats
The simplest government would be Labour + Greens + NZ First + Progressive (63 seats).
The key thing for the remainder of the year and early next year is Labour staying competitive. For me 35 per cent is the crunch point. If they are below it - theyre goneburger. If they are above it and in the late 30s, its game on.
I think in all likelihood National will be the largest party, but there is an element of over-inflation in their polling.
So what will happen? Here's my prediction for the election night result in 2008
National 43 per cent (51 seats)
Labour 38 per cent (46 seats)
Greens 8 per cent (10 seats)
NZ First 5 per cent (6 seats)
Maori Party 2.5 per cent (5 seats - they will win Te Tai Tonga as well as their current 4)
ACT 1.5 per cent (2 seats)
United Future 1 per cent (1 seat)
Progressive 0.8 per cent (1 seat)
So this is how it will line up (total seats 122)
LEFT
Labour (46) + Greens (10) + Progressive (1) = 57 seats
RIGHT
National (51) + ACT (2) = 53 seats
CENTRE
NZ First (6) + Maori (5) + United Future (1) = 12 seats
The simplest government would be Labour + Greens + NZ First + Progressive (63 seats).
The key thing for the remainder of the year and early next year is Labour staying competitive. For me 35 per cent is the crunch point. If they are below it - theyre goneburger. If they are above it and in the late 30s, its game on.
Tuesday, July 10, 2007
Its rising
Last night I went to a cocktail function at Century City Developments for the launch of the Wellington Phoenix FC's chairmans club. I got to meet some of the players including the captain Ross Aloisi (who captained Adelaide to consecutive A-League finals), the coach the hero himself, Terry Serepisos, and the All Whites captain from 1982 (one of only two NZers to score goals at a World Cup).It costs 5k to join the chairmans club (limited to only 100 members) - so thats clearly not happening, but the other packages actually look quite reasonable.
For $180 you get a season pass to all 10 home games along with a pack of stuff including bumper stickers, pins etc... which I dont think is too bad - only $18 a game. Plus I do like the idea of having 'season tickets'. hmmm.
Monday, July 09, 2007
WTF?
I just watched the most fucked up documentary ever. It was one of those shows that is so messed up that you just cant look away.
Amputee Admirers on Sky's Documentary Channel - heres the link to prove im not making this up!
The synopsis kind of says it all as follows -
Amputee Admirers on Sky's Documentary Channel - heres the link to prove im not making this up!
The synopsis kind of says it all as follows -
Exploring the extraordinary desires of men who are only sexually attracted to amputee and disabled women. The film follows a group of amputees to San Jose where a weekend for amputee admirers is held.
Thursday, July 05, 2007
Wilco - Sky Blue Sky
This week I have been listening to the new album from Chicago band, Wilco, called Sky Blue Sky. The album is Wilco's ninth, but this is the first one I have listened to at any great length. Now im told this isnt as good as their earlier work, but regardless of that - Im loving it.
For me Jeff Tweedy's vocals are outstanding, he sounds like John Lennon during the late 60s, 'white' album era. The band clearly draw on the Beatles from that era, and you can definitely hear Dylan, Velvet Underground and alt-country influences. The album has a great raw feel to it - and I think people who dug Ryan Adams' Jacksonville or even Jeff Buckley will also like this.
Track 3, Impossible Germany has an absolutely kick ass riff that is stuck in my head. Side with the Seeds is also outstanding as is Walken and Shake it Off. But its the consistency of the album that im loving.
At this stage the album should make my highly anticipated (by me anyway! lol) albums of the year list.
Check it out - there are free previews here
Monday, July 02, 2007
Sunday, July 01, 2007
Big things
Another NZ township is about to get one of those big things. This time its a blatant plug for the Simpson's Film - but hey I love these things all the same.
Springfield, about an hour from Christchurch is to get a huge donut which will be unveiled by Homer and Bart.
I think someone should pull together a NZ big things website and suggested driving tour to go around them all - my favourites are the big L&P bottle in Paeroa, the Carrot in Ohakune, the Kiwifruit in Te Puke and of course Mary in Paraparaumu.
Australia is bigger on big things than NZ (they have 146 of them!) - check out their site here or the wikipedia list of them here
Springfield, about an hour from Christchurch is to get a huge donut which will be unveiled by Homer and Bart.
I think someone should pull together a NZ big things website and suggested driving tour to go around them all - my favourites are the big L&P bottle in Paeroa, the Carrot in Ohakune, the Kiwifruit in Te Puke and of course Mary in Paraparaumu.
Australia is bigger on big things than NZ (they have 146 of them!) - check out their site here or the wikipedia list of them here
Saturday, June 30, 2007
Robots in disguise
I went and saw Transformers last night... it pretty much is the TFU film of the year. What is TFU you ask? The Fuckest Uppest - it kicked so much ass its not funny.
The action is awesome, its actually pretty funny and it has the same camp quality that Star Wars had.
Three guys had dressed up as Transformers in the audience too which kicked ass - the Optimus Prime and Megatron guys were pretty good - the third guy was the lesser known "dishwasher-box-with-tin-foil- around-the arms-a-tron" but good effort all the same... cant have been comfortable sitting for about 2 hours in a box though??
Its a real fan-boy film, anyone who ever played with Transformers will just love it - you should have heard the nervous squeals of excitement as the theatre lights dimmed (and that was just me!).
Oh and in answer to Trey Parker and Matt Stone's question in Team America, yes Pearl Harbour sucks, but this is why Michael Bay gets to keep on making movies.
The action is awesome, its actually pretty funny and it has the same camp quality that Star Wars had.
Three guys had dressed up as Transformers in the audience too which kicked ass - the Optimus Prime and Megatron guys were pretty good - the third guy was the lesser known "dishwasher-box-with-tin-foil- around-the arms-a-tron" but good effort all the same... cant have been comfortable sitting for about 2 hours in a box though??
Its a real fan-boy film, anyone who ever played with Transformers will just love it - you should have heard the nervous squeals of excitement as the theatre lights dimmed (and that was just me!).
Oh and in answer to Trey Parker and Matt Stone's question in Team America, yes Pearl Harbour sucks, but this is why Michael Bay gets to keep on making movies.
Friday, June 29, 2007
John Clarke and the Games
Angus queried what exactly the TV show "The Games" was about, and given the star, John Clarke (better known to NZers as Fred Dagg and the voice of Wal in Footrot Flats) has just been awarded an honorary doctorate from Victoria University, I thought its probably the perfect time to mention the show.
Unfortunately I couldn't find any clips on You Tube, so ill just have to explain it. The Games was a mockumentary style show (three years before Gervais did it) supposedly following the bureaucrats organising the Sydney Olympics. It starred Palmerston North's John Clarke as the head of Liaison and Logistics, Bryan Dawes as the accountant and Gina Riley (Kim in Kath and Kim) as the Marketing head. Episodes focussed on things like why the 100m track was only 93m and that Bryan and John were able to set a world record while pissed.
The coolest bit about it though was that series 2 finished about a week before the actual Olympics began, with the finale featuring the cast standing in for the Seekers singing The Carnival is Over at the Closing ceremony.
Its probably the best Australian show ever.
The most controversial bit though was when they got the actor John Howard who has been on shows like All Saints and Always Greener, to apologise on behalf of Australia to the Aboriginal people - this of course was happening at the same time as people were calling on the PM to say 'sorry'. This of course was accompanied by the classic line -
John Clarke: that's not the Prime Minister
Gina Riley: he never said he was. He said he was John Howard
Full text of the apology here
Ryan Adams - Easy Tiger
Turns out that sometimes drugs are a really, really good idea.
Ive spent the morning listening to Ryan Adams' new album Easy Tiger. After two listens Im thinking its more like his Gold/Love is Hell works - very very good, but also maybe a little bit safe?
I was a big fan of his 2006 series of three albums in one year. In fact I would go as far as to say Jacksonville City Nights is probably my favourite album by him, but it was also the most difficult to get my head around. It is way more country than it is rock n roll, and till then my country roots has mostly consisted of the Byrds.
After listening to Jacksonville a lot recently I guess I was hoping for something along those lines again - that pushed the comfort boundaries a little. Im not sure that Easy Tiger does that.
Don't get me wrong I think its a very good album, and there are some stand out tracks - Halloweenhead, with his call for a "guitar solo" is fantastic. And there are moments that remind you of parts of 29 and the guitar work in Tears of Gold does draw on Jacksonville, but for me it mostly harks back to his earlier works.
This is probably an album that could have slotted in between Cold Roses and Love is Hell. Which is where the drugs come in. It turns out he was off is nut during the 2006 series - for all intents and purposes it sounds like he wasnt far from being a junky.
But this raises the question - do people make better music when they're out of their minds?
Wednesday, June 27, 2007
Canberra a go go!
Well finally here are the pics from Canberra
Ive started one of those Flickr things here
But fans of the Castle should recognise this place.... Its the vibe, its Mabo...
Ive started one of those Flickr things here
But fans of the Castle should recognise this place.... Its the vibe, its Mabo...
Go you good thing
To be honest when flicking between the All Blacks and Team NZ's first America's Cup race on Sunday morning I thought we were looking at another 5-0 loss.
But oh no - Team New Zealand has fought back and now lead 2-1 after what is being lauded as one of the greatest Cups ever - in that its a competition this time, with the last three cups being 5-0 routs.
Of course the Cup has a great history of close competition. In 1983 Australia II came from behind to win 4-3 over dirty Dennis Conner's Liberty - the first time it had been won by someone other than the US. In 1987 off Fremantle in Western Australia, NZ entered for the first time and somehow it captured the imagination of the whole country. That year we sailed KZ-7 - who could forget the huge spinaker sail emblazoned with the logo of the BNZ? Our boat that year was the first to be constructed from fibreglass - all the others were made of the conventional aluminium, leading Conner to quip - "why would you build a glass boat, unless you wanted to cheat." We lost the challenger series to Conner's Stars and Stripes who went on to win the cup for the US again.
In 1988 there was dumb NZ Challenge with the big boat (KZ-1) - essentially we got cocky, rocked up to New York and said "lets have a race with whatever boat you've got" - they pulled out a catamaran with Stars and Stripes livery - and we got smashed. This lead to more famous Conner quotes - "Im sailing a cat..... somebody else is sailing a dog" and of course the subtle press conference dig "Get off the stage losers, this is for winners". This whole debacle led to all sorts of court challenges which saw the cup awarded to New Zealand, and then given back to the US on appeal. This led to a new class of yachts being born - the International America's Cup Class, which is what we currently have.
In 1992 we challenged again, this time with a red boat - NZL20. Again we made the Louis Vuitton Challenger final, and after leading 3-1, our innovative bowsprit was deemed illegal - and we lost to Il Moro di Venezia of Italy. Il Moro went to lose in the America's Cup anyway to Bill Koch's America3 4-1. This all of course set it up for the Black Boat - NZL 32 to take the cup in crushing form in 1995, 5-0.
So anyway after intending this to be a short "hey we won again" post - ive managed to blah on about all the Cups I can remember!
But oh no - Team New Zealand has fought back and now lead 2-1 after what is being lauded as one of the greatest Cups ever - in that its a competition this time, with the last three cups being 5-0 routs.
Of course the Cup has a great history of close competition. In 1983 Australia II came from behind to win 4-3 over dirty Dennis Conner's Liberty - the first time it had been won by someone other than the US. In 1987 off Fremantle in Western Australia, NZ entered for the first time and somehow it captured the imagination of the whole country. That year we sailed KZ-7 - who could forget the huge spinaker sail emblazoned with the logo of the BNZ? Our boat that year was the first to be constructed from fibreglass - all the others were made of the conventional aluminium, leading Conner to quip - "why would you build a glass boat, unless you wanted to cheat." We lost the challenger series to Conner's Stars and Stripes who went on to win the cup for the US again.
In 1988 there was dumb NZ Challenge with the big boat (KZ-1) - essentially we got cocky, rocked up to New York and said "lets have a race with whatever boat you've got" - they pulled out a catamaran with Stars and Stripes livery - and we got smashed. This lead to more famous Conner quotes - "Im sailing a cat..... somebody else is sailing a dog" and of course the subtle press conference dig "Get off the stage losers, this is for winners". This whole debacle led to all sorts of court challenges which saw the cup awarded to New Zealand, and then given back to the US on appeal. This led to a new class of yachts being born - the International America's Cup Class, which is what we currently have.
In 1992 we challenged again, this time with a red boat - NZL20. Again we made the Louis Vuitton Challenger final, and after leading 3-1, our innovative bowsprit was deemed illegal - and we lost to Il Moro di Venezia of Italy. Il Moro went to lose in the America's Cup anyway to Bill Koch's America3 4-1. This all of course set it up for the Black Boat - NZL 32 to take the cup in crushing form in 1995, 5-0.
So anyway after intending this to be a short "hey we won again" post - ive managed to blah on about all the Cups I can remember!
Saturday, June 23, 2007
Is one bovvered though?
The Lauren character from the Catherine Tate show winding the Queen up at the Royal Variety Show. "Who's minding the corgi's? She ain't even bovvered."
Friday, June 22, 2007
AFI 100 10th Anniversary
10 years ago the American Film Institute did their top 100 all time films (although it was actually released in 1998 - but lets not be picky).
You can get the whole shebang over at the AFI Site, but here is the 2007 top 10 (with their 1998 ranking in brackets) I have also noted whether they were nominated or won the Best Picture Oscar in their year and the film that won if top 10 film didnt in brackets.
1. CITIZEN KANE (1) - nominated for Best Picture 1941 (How Green Was My Valley)
2. THE GODFATHER (3) - Best Picture 1972
3. CASABLANCA (2) - Best Picture 1942
4. RAGING BULL (24) - nominated for Best Picture 1980 (Ordinary People)
5. SINGIN' IN THE RAIN (10)
6. GONE WITH THE WIND - Best Picture 1939
7. LAWRENCE OF ARABIA (4) - Best Picture 1962
8. SCHINDLER'S LIST (8) - Best Picture 1993
9. VERTIGO (61)
10. THE WIZARD OF OZ (5) - nominated for Best Picture 1939 (Gone with the Wind)
The Graduate and On the Waterfront dropped off the top 10 from 98.
43 new films were eligible this time but only LOTR: Fellowship of the Ring at 50, Saving Private Ryan at 71, Titanic at 83 and The Sixth Sense at 89 made the cut. All the President's Men missed out last time but made it at 77 this time, as did The Shawshank Redemption at 72.
The only top 10 film I havent seen is Lawrence of Arabia - to the video store Robin!
You can get the whole shebang over at the AFI Site, but here is the 2007 top 10 (with their 1998 ranking in brackets) I have also noted whether they were nominated or won the Best Picture Oscar in their year and the film that won if top 10 film didnt in brackets.
1. CITIZEN KANE (1) - nominated for Best Picture 1941 (How Green Was My Valley)
2. THE GODFATHER (3) - Best Picture 1972
3. CASABLANCA (2) - Best Picture 1942
4. RAGING BULL (24) - nominated for Best Picture 1980 (Ordinary People)
5. SINGIN' IN THE RAIN (10)
6. GONE WITH THE WIND - Best Picture 1939
7. LAWRENCE OF ARABIA (4) - Best Picture 1962
8. SCHINDLER'S LIST (8) - Best Picture 1993
9. VERTIGO (61)
10. THE WIZARD OF OZ (5) - nominated for Best Picture 1939 (Gone with the Wind)
The Graduate and On the Waterfront dropped off the top 10 from 98.
43 new films were eligible this time but only LOTR: Fellowship of the Ring at 50, Saving Private Ryan at 71, Titanic at 83 and The Sixth Sense at 89 made the cut. All the President's Men missed out last time but made it at 77 this time, as did The Shawshank Redemption at 72.
The only top 10 film I havent seen is Lawrence of Arabia - to the video store Robin!
Potential Potter spoilers
Some hacker clown apparently got hold of the final Harry Potter instalment.... now while its likely the guy is talking out his arse here is what he claims are the big twists etc
Snape kills Hagrid
Voldermort kills Hermione (who saves Ron)
Harry kills Voldermort
Draco is evil
Draco will have to pick things up substantially - up till now he's just been a dick.
Anyway there you have it. The publishers are saying its bollocks and personally I thought the much speculated Harry sacrificing himself to kill Voldemort would be better.. but hey I dont even read these books!
Snape kills Hagrid
Voldermort kills Hermione (who saves Ron)
Harry kills Voldermort
Draco is evil
Draco will have to pick things up substantially - up till now he's just been a dick.
Anyway there you have it. The publishers are saying its bollocks and personally I thought the much speculated Harry sacrificing himself to kill Voldemort would be better.. but hey I dont even read these books!
Monday, June 18, 2007
Poor little Gingers
Im back from a week in sunny Canberra. It was cold, wet and full of bureaucrats.... so not that different to Wellington. At some point I'll blog photos etc.
But for now to ease back into blogging - I got sent this article while I was away, and it was one of those things where as soon as you see it - you have to blog it. So here goes
And before the hadwringers amongst us get going - Yes bullying isnt a laughing matter - but these are gingers...
Headline from BBC News - Red-haired family forced to move (WARNING - there are images depicting Gingers at the linked site)
"The family also say they have endured their homes being daubed in graffiti. Mr Chapman said: "The abuse we get is unbelievable. It started more than three years ago, when the kids started getting bullied by lads over the colour of their hair. "They've been punched and kicked and thrown over a hedge."
But for now to ease back into blogging - I got sent this article while I was away, and it was one of those things where as soon as you see it - you have to blog it. So here goes
And before the hadwringers amongst us get going - Yes bullying isnt a laughing matter - but these are gingers...
Headline from BBC News - Red-haired family forced to move (WARNING - there are images depicting Gingers at the linked site)
"The family also say they have endured their homes being daubed in graffiti. Mr Chapman said: "The abuse we get is unbelievable. It started more than three years ago, when the kids started getting bullied by lads over the colour of their hair. "They've been punched and kicked and thrown over a hedge."
Wednesday, June 06, 2007
Absolute bloody show stopper
The London Olympic organisers have unveiled their new logo for the games (pictured).
Already it has been likened to grafiti and a stylised swastika - which isnt far off huh?
But the best development has to be that they have had to pull all their flash animations and video from their website as the graphics will cause epileptics to fit!
Now granted epilepsy is no laughing matter, but think about the potential for the opening ceremony. Now that would grab the headlines.
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