You may not notice how cheap stand alone cameras are these days. Parallel imported has a 10 megapixel camera with 4x optical zoom on sale for a meagre $150. The Warehouse sells photography hi-res cameras at $500-$900. Not something many people would take too much notice over now, considering a frightening death march towards the smartphone cult is taking more and more people with it.
With these clunky pieces of metal now containing built in cameras, which can send photos to an email address, upload them to Facebook and Twitter, as well as sharing them with out smartphone holders, life has never been so easy or convenient.
Has it?
People seldom realise something bad has happened until its too late. These smartphones are evil and there is a very good reason to see past the pathetic advertising Apple and co put forth. At hindsight, it makes life easier. The contrary to that is simple. We begin to worship small pieces of metal. Its power to do so many amazing things mesmerizes people. Slowly, our banking is done on them, all our photos are taken with them, thousands of ridiculous applications are smacked on to alleviate boredom. Before one realises it, a lot of their life exists on the smartphone. If it fails, we fail. If it gets lost, so does much of our life.
If everyone wants to continue towards total dependency on a smartphone, they are more than welcome to do so. For those who have seen this is all one big money making gimmick and mere materialism which advocates anti-social behaviour, you can hopefully avert this cult for just a little bit longer.
Welcome to Australia. Better pay, better weather, better value for money
How Mr. Shearer can stand in front of all New Zealanders and proclaim that he is able to fix New Zealand's mass exodus to Australia is rather surprising. For those who cannot remember, the immigration problem had been a cornerstone rally cry by Mr. Slippery during his election campaign during 2008.
Since 2008, net migration has seen a sharp increase towards the lucky country. 54,000 people bought a one way ticket to Australia, citing a better overall lifestyle as their reason for moving. http://www.nzherald.co.nz/economy/news/article.cfm?c_id=34&objectid=10852505 The fact that Australia has a better climate cannot be argued about, or changed by any rabble which comes from National or Labour. You won't see Mr. Key lobbying either for companies to pay their employees a bit more fairly. Salaries in Australia have been recognised, on average to be 36.41% higher than in New Zealand. Until the fat corporate piglets at the top stop worshiping money (and themselves), expect to see the mass brain drain continue. http://www.numbeo.com/cost-of-living/compare_countries_result.jsp?country1=Australia&country2=New+Zealand
As for those who want my recommendations towards fixing the problem, simple. Pay your workers more, offer them competitive work packages which are reasonable enough to keep them in New Zealand and keep their morale up. It seems to be your best chance at keeping skilled workers.
Even the most loyal followers know now
Anybody who still thinks Lance Armstrong did not dope need only watch his interview with Oprah Winfrey. Spanning a healthy 90 minutes, it seems clear as day Armstrong has finally lifted the lid on his use of performance enhancing drugs. Among them were EPO, testosterone, blood transfusions, cortisone and steroids.
Perhaps now, those who idolise Armstrong can understand that you could not win a Tour De France in his era without doping. Former US Postal teammates Tyler Hamilton and Frankie Andreu made that clear during an interview on 60 Minutes. "If you weren't taking EPO, you weren't going to win."
To give a comparison, Bradley Wiggins, the most recent winner of the famous French race, rode at an average speed of 39.9 km/h, a far cry from Armstrong's 41.016 km/h in 2004.
***Is it really a big ask to get Police to fight Petty crime more. Surely, patrolling the streets on foot would go a lot further in reducing crime statistics, than loafing around on motorways with radar guns. Although National pretends to be tough on crime, many criminals have little regard for new governments. Crime seems to happen more often, reading about murderers in the news is more frequent and so called petty crime appears to happen more and more. Whizzing by in cars will not make any difference. Being immediately available to prevent a crime from happening does.***
Tuesday, 15 January 2013
Wednesday, 9 January 2013
My trip to South Africa, Jacob Zuma’s questionable quotes and other things South Africa related
With my journey back to South Africa at an end, reflecting
on what has become of the country since I left in 1997 is often painful, always
interesting and never dull.
The country has become a non-stop comedy show. You want
something to laugh at? How about the fact that just about every road in the
country has potholes? How about corruption running rampant in every single
political system? Top that off with the rather inept workers and the comedy is
complete.
The sad reality about South Africa in the 21st century
is that nothing ever seems to get done on time. When it does get done, it’s a
half rate job.
You cannot help but feel sorry for the people who are still
magnetically attached to the country. For many, the lifestyle is still quite
attractive. The opportunity to earn a good salary is very high; the social
events are almost weekly, the weather unbeatable. So not everything here makes
people grumble.
Crime remains a big problem, yet since hosting the Soccer
World Cup, the non-existent police have at least managed to keep a tab on
dangerous criminals. At least people can see for themselves how many brutal
robberies, rapes and ransacking’s are taking place each day. On such example
took place on Boxing Day, when my Uncle’s neighbour’s house was burgled in
broad daylight.
Corruption, as mentioned earlier also remains a problem,
especially considering it runs right from the top. Every second political book
in Bargain Books seems to cover corruption in quite extensive details.
This corruption also happens to include affirmative action
policies. If you are black, your chances of getting a high paying, high
responsibility are very good. You can open a KFC franchise, from which you can
turnover millions of rand a year; life will be good for you. Conversely, a white
male holds up the list, sitting right at the bottom. Unsurprisingly, many white
people start their own businesses.
If South Africa wants to continue going down this path,
unwilling to work with one another, the problems will remain. Should they get over
past transgressions and give each person an equal opportunity, maybe progress
can be made.
The face of
corruption and the voice of ignorance
Rest assured, four presidents later and the Republic of
South Africa has yet to elect a leader capable of creating a trustworthy
government.
Yes, Nelson Mandela did a lot of good work to unite the
nation but he was not apt enough to create enough jobs for the millions of
blacks who were living in the new South Africa. Most can only make a guess at
what Thabo Mbeki tried doing. Whatever it was, nothing came to fruition under
him.
Jacob Zuma is, without a doubt, the worst president South
Africa has ever had and he leads the worst ANC elected party the country has
ever had. I have no sympathy for the fascist crackpot Afrikaans dominated
governments who instigated and supported apartheid. At least the roads were
good, there were jobs available for most people (unemployment was at least 50%
lower than now), you had police who actually fought crime.
Zuma has been in court so many times, facing multiple counts
of corruption, four counts of rape and three counts of racketeering. Al Capone
would have been proud to call Mr. Zuma a friend on Alcatraz. Yet here is a man
who allegedly (because it is highly unlikely) runs the country.
A man who builds a massive home on land which doesn’t belong
to him, earns a higher income from bribes than his official salary or R2.7
million per year.
He says black people should “not be like whites and take
their dogs to the doctor when your family members are sick.” No effort is made
on his behalf, or that of his cabinet, to hide their blatant racism.
And they wander why people are leaving by the masses every
hour.
Easily the best tourist destination in the world
I regularly have a
good debate with people when they say England, the USA, France and Italy are
the best tourist destinations in the world. South Africa by far, surpasses each
one. While it may not be able to match these countries with historical
landmarks, other elements make it far superior. The landscape is so incredibly
diverse. There are beaches, mountains, deserts, jungles, rain forests beaches
and sprawling cities. Each province has activities which you will remember
forever. Safaris, the view atop Table mountain, white water rafting on grade 5
rapids, swimming on golden sand beaches, the peace and quiet in the
Drankensburg Mountains and so much more. The activities are endless and so is
the good weather.
It is a terrible pity New Zealand does not import Savannah Dry cider. Not only does it taste amazing, it far exceeds any Kiwi made ciders. Whether that is down to its long history as South Africa's top rated cider or the brewers ability to taste quality, supermarkets should consider it. Old Mout cider has nothing on Savannah.
*****Yes, customs and security at South African Airports is
incredibly lax. Only half filling in my arrival card, the women stamped me
through, without considering that many compulsory areas were incomplete. What
about the baggage check and metal detectors? As easy as 1,2,3. In fact, some of
the officials even had their mobile phones out during this time. Only in South
Africa!*****
If New Zealand police
are worried about the road toll reaching double digits, they need to pause. The
latest statistics show how 1300 deaths have happened since December 1st.Now,
the police need to stop being so fixated on writing people going 5km over the
speed limit during the New Year. Instead, they can do their job and patrol the
beaches and busy areas during the holiday season. It will go a long way towards
stopping so called “petty crime.”
Anybody who believes the propaganda of recent South Africans can rest easier knowing that most of this is in fact false. Crime does not happen on every street corner and you will not be mugged if you walk around with valuables in your hands. Plenty of women walked along the beachfront, hands full of shopping bags, without attracting any attention. Mercedes cars parked outside flash houses were not broken into. As long as you act normal, don't flash money and cameras around, you will be unlikely to run into any trouble.
Thursday, 6 December 2012
The usual anti-conservative abuse
It isn't uncommon for conservatives to be labelled as people who are selfish and do not want to help those less fortunate. There is something rather ironic about this position. Namely, it labels all people who associate themselves on this side as tight, neglectful people who do not care about poorer people. So having a tirade of abuse towards Colin Craig saying school lunches should not be handed out comes as no surprise. Labour/Green Party Headquarters talks about New Zealand's desperate need for it, but today the focus will be on one particular person who goes by the name "Paul Le Comte." He writes...
You evil piece of shite. Everyone who agrees with you are evil pieces of shite, I'm not mixing my words with you tossers any more, I'm sick to death of bloody so called 'pull-your-socks-up' do gooders. You're small minded, have no capacity for compassion, have even less capacity for empathy & have the most incredibly ability to tarnish everyone with stereotypes. You have no idea why or how people's lives are affected by poverty - stories from the 1900s have utterly no relevance to New Zealand 2012. You people ask where is the personal responsibility? I ask you, for the 96 Hillside railway workers laid off 1 week before christmas, what part did they play in their economic hardship - none what so ever. But that doesn't stop you narrow minded tossers for playing the high and mighty. I ask where was the Governmental responsibility in giving the wealthy in NZ a $2B tax break & raising GST on every product in NZ - when the arguments for exemptions on fresh fruit & vegetables (as done elsewhere). Colin Craig is a despicable politician influenced by & seemingly willing to support even smaller minded & economically offensive twats. Hope you are all happy in your condemnation of others whom you have no idea of the individual circumstances. Funny my Gran taught me compassion and empathy are the greatest gifts of humanity, funny, the very same Christian values apparently Colin apparently is signed up to.
I shall break down everything which Paul has said and put my riposte underneath
You evil piece of shite. Everyone who agrees with you are evil pieces of shite, I'm not mixing my words with you tossers any more, I'm sick to death of bloody so called 'pull-your-socks-up' do gooders. You're small minded, have no capacity for compassion, have even less capacity for empathy & have the most incredibly ability to tarnish everyone with stereotypes
To begin, Paul makes personal attacks towards people whom he is unfamiliar with, offering up mindless abuse, and labeling conservatives as evil. When people often begin by insulting their opponents, it is often a sure sign of insecurity on their own behalf for their position. He believes that because the Conservative party does not approve of lunches in schools, it means they lack compassion. Why is that? In what way? Does a disapproval of this policy mean they are not compassionate in any kind of way?
Paul again
You have no idea why or how people's lives are affected by poverty - stories from the 1900s have utterly no relevance to New Zealand 2012. You people ask where is the personal responsibility? I ask you, for the 96 Hillside railway workers laid off 1 week before christmas, what part did they play in their economic hardship - none what so ever. But that doesn't stop you narrow minded tossers for playing the high and mighty
Again, Paul assumes his opponents are completely ignorant and void of knowledge. This is both wrong and inaccurate. He is more than welcome to present objective evidence of right wing people who have no idea about how their life has been affected by poverty. Like Paul, I have a heart for the poor and help where I can to provide help for him. If he wants my solutions to the situation he can read the post "Let us help the children," which includes a brilliant harvest fruit picking initiative which Di Celliers runs. So far, many boxes of fresh fruit have been delivered to low decile schools. A majority of this funding has been by private donors. Unlike Paul, who believes helping those in need cannot be achieved without the government dictating it, these clever initiatives shows that plenty of organisations exist to help parents provide food for everyone.
Paul continues
I ask where was the Governmental responsibility in giving the wealthy in NZ a $2B tax break & raising GST on every product in NZ - when the arguments for exemptions on fresh fruit & vegetables (as done elsewhere). Colin Craig is a despicable politician influenced by & seemingly willing to support even smaller minded & economically offensive twats
The fresh fruit and vegetables debacle is a farce away from the main issue in the tax system. It was a shambles under Labour and continues on in the same face under National. If Paul wants fresh fruit and vegetables to be tax free, then it creates a difficult scenario? What is fresh? Does it count if it's canned fresh fruit? What about imported fruit? Frozen fresh veges? I know Paul isn't stupid, so he'll know that the GST tax lost here will be regained in another area, most likely in the form of personal income tax. If he is content to have lazy, incompetent and selfish politicians squandering his hard earned income that's fine. Conservative party supporters have had enough of the inept spending of our income taxes and the overly socialist generosity towards completely undeserving people.
Paul takes a jibe at Colin and his supporters. He is again making assumptions on two accounts. One, that Colin is a politician (he is not), and second that he uses ad hominem arguments, rather than actually giving a rational, well reasoned argument for his need to support lunches in schools. His prejudiced slurs are a testament to his lack of reason.
Hope you are all happy in your condemnation of others whom you have no idea of the individual circumstances. Funny my Gran taught me compassion and empathy are the greatest gifts of humanity, funny, the very same Christian values apparently Colin apparently is signed up to.
He concludes by stating a position he knows is neither true, or reflective of conservative voters. Following on, Paul concludes by telling us a grandma lesson, quite similar to Colin's and then jumps on bashing Colin for not being 'Christian' enough to adopt to his beliefs in what a Christian must say or do. Is Paul were to read the Bible book of Proverbs, he'd see that there is plenty of instruction from God about working hard. "Proverbs 14:23 - In all labour there is profit: but the talk of the lips [tendeth] only to penury."
Paul asserts, in a rather smug way, that only his perspective is right, without providing any measurable rationale.
You evil piece of shite. Everyone who agrees with you are evil pieces of shite, I'm not mixing my words with you tossers any more, I'm sick to death of bloody so called 'pull-your-socks-up' do gooders. You're small minded, have no capacity for compassion, have even less capacity for empathy & have the most incredibly ability to tarnish everyone with stereotypes. You have no idea why or how people's lives are affected by poverty - stories from the 1900s have utterly no relevance to New Zealand 2012. You people ask where is the personal responsibility? I ask you, for the 96 Hillside railway workers laid off 1 week before christmas, what part did they play in their economic hardship - none what so ever. But that doesn't stop you narrow minded tossers for playing the high and mighty. I ask where was the Governmental responsibility in giving the wealthy in NZ a $2B tax break & raising GST on every product in NZ - when the arguments for exemptions on fresh fruit & vegetables (as done elsewhere). Colin Craig is a despicable politician influenced by & seemingly willing to support even smaller minded & economically offensive twats. Hope you are all happy in your condemnation of others whom you have no idea of the individual circumstances. Funny my Gran taught me compassion and empathy are the greatest gifts of humanity, funny, the very same Christian values apparently Colin apparently is signed up to.
I shall break down everything which Paul has said and put my riposte underneath
You evil piece of shite. Everyone who agrees with you are evil pieces of shite, I'm not mixing my words with you tossers any more, I'm sick to death of bloody so called 'pull-your-socks-up' do gooders. You're small minded, have no capacity for compassion, have even less capacity for empathy & have the most incredibly ability to tarnish everyone with stereotypes
To begin, Paul makes personal attacks towards people whom he is unfamiliar with, offering up mindless abuse, and labeling conservatives as evil. When people often begin by insulting their opponents, it is often a sure sign of insecurity on their own behalf for their position. He believes that because the Conservative party does not approve of lunches in schools, it means they lack compassion. Why is that? In what way? Does a disapproval of this policy mean they are not compassionate in any kind of way?
Paul again
You have no idea why or how people's lives are affected by poverty - stories from the 1900s have utterly no relevance to New Zealand 2012. You people ask where is the personal responsibility? I ask you, for the 96 Hillside railway workers laid off 1 week before christmas, what part did they play in their economic hardship - none what so ever. But that doesn't stop you narrow minded tossers for playing the high and mighty
Again, Paul assumes his opponents are completely ignorant and void of knowledge. This is both wrong and inaccurate. He is more than welcome to present objective evidence of right wing people who have no idea about how their life has been affected by poverty. Like Paul, I have a heart for the poor and help where I can to provide help for him. If he wants my solutions to the situation he can read the post "Let us help the children," which includes a brilliant harvest fruit picking initiative which Di Celliers runs. So far, many boxes of fresh fruit have been delivered to low decile schools. A majority of this funding has been by private donors. Unlike Paul, who believes helping those in need cannot be achieved without the government dictating it, these clever initiatives shows that plenty of organisations exist to help parents provide food for everyone.
Paul continues
I ask where was the Governmental responsibility in giving the wealthy in NZ a $2B tax break & raising GST on every product in NZ - when the arguments for exemptions on fresh fruit & vegetables (as done elsewhere). Colin Craig is a despicable politician influenced by & seemingly willing to support even smaller minded & economically offensive twats
The fresh fruit and vegetables debacle is a farce away from the main issue in the tax system. It was a shambles under Labour and continues on in the same face under National. If Paul wants fresh fruit and vegetables to be tax free, then it creates a difficult scenario? What is fresh? Does it count if it's canned fresh fruit? What about imported fruit? Frozen fresh veges? I know Paul isn't stupid, so he'll know that the GST tax lost here will be regained in another area, most likely in the form of personal income tax. If he is content to have lazy, incompetent and selfish politicians squandering his hard earned income that's fine. Conservative party supporters have had enough of the inept spending of our income taxes and the overly socialist generosity towards completely undeserving people.
Paul takes a jibe at Colin and his supporters. He is again making assumptions on two accounts. One, that Colin is a politician (he is not), and second that he uses ad hominem arguments, rather than actually giving a rational, well reasoned argument for his need to support lunches in schools. His prejudiced slurs are a testament to his lack of reason.
Hope you are all happy in your condemnation of others whom you have no idea of the individual circumstances. Funny my Gran taught me compassion and empathy are the greatest gifts of humanity, funny, the very same Christian values apparently Colin apparently is signed up to.
He concludes by stating a position he knows is neither true, or reflective of conservative voters. Following on, Paul concludes by telling us a grandma lesson, quite similar to Colin's and then jumps on bashing Colin for not being 'Christian' enough to adopt to his beliefs in what a Christian must say or do. Is Paul were to read the Bible book of Proverbs, he'd see that there is plenty of instruction from God about working hard. "Proverbs 14:23 - In all labour there is profit: but the talk of the lips [tendeth] only to penury."
Paul asserts, in a rather smug way, that only his perspective is right, without providing any measurable rationale.
Monday, 3 December 2012
Going to New Zealand’s got talent, the alcohol debate and another long season
New Zealand’s got talent was quite an interesting
experience. Whilst I have been sworn to keep the outcome a secret until the
final was broadcast live on TV (Sunday night), experiencing it live was quite a
special experience.
For anyone who doesn’t know by now, Clara Van Wel won.
Without question, Clara was the best performer. Talented, intelligent and
mature beyond her years, she outshone her competitors during top three's rendition
of Gotye’s ‘Somebody that I used to know.’ Her song ‘Where do you find love,’
which she performed in the penultimate week won her the competition. As great
as some performances were, nobody could match the dashing young girl from
Marlborough.
Seeing a television show being filmed became rather strange.
After four hours of watching patiently, sitting in anticipation, the show came
to an end. Even for a finale, everything was rushing by rather quickly. There
was a double take gone on almost every sequence, except for Dane Rumble and
Evermore’s performances, which was a pity, considering how brilliantly they
performed. Whilst management people whizzed around everywhere, a rather
hyperactive emcee was bouncing off the walls with all sorts of whimsical
festive energy. It was also his job to get everybody up clapping, doing
standing ovations and the sort. Some people seeking a microsecond of fame would
have found this filming quite the experience, although I can’t see myself going
back to a filming like that anytime soon. Far too fake and overhyped for me.
The three judges were also receiving non-stop attention from makeup after every
single take. Like most television related things, a lot of the requests made on
us as an audience were plasticised rapturous applause, jingled stare fests at
Tamati Coffey talking, or peeping through
As it was my first time watching it (aside from seeing a few
blotched auditions), it was promising to see that New Zealand does have some
very fine performers. Many felt that J Geeks had been cheated out of a finals
spot but playing with fire can only get you so far. New Zealand’s favourite
singing granny put in a commendable effort…on a highlights reel.
Overall, being part of a live studio audience had both good
and bad elements to it. Good because you got to see everything being done in
its raw footage. Seeing Tamati blotch his lines, watching the drama unfold
live, alongside the raw, unedited reactions of the finalists, the performances;
everything. As I've explained above, there were some down sides too.
Watching the show live makes you appreciate the slick
television editing that much more, although the editing has a fair way to go before matching the likes of X-Factor and American Idol.
The information
Statistics New Zealand conveniently leaves out
The other night at a friend’s 21st, I bumped into the
charismatic, rather pleasant Sean Topham. He will go far in politics if he
stays loyal to the National Party.
Like most people associated with the Young Nats, I disagree
with Sean on many things, especially the centre-right political status.
Nonetheless, it was rather enjoyable arguing with him about important issues.
Most prefer to dismiss conservatives as old fashioned and antiquated but Sean
listens carefully and puts his points forth convincingly (even though I
disagree).
There seems to be irony aplenty . The alcohol drinking age
consensus is quite divided among people within National and Labour.Like many of
his cohorts in the young Nats, Mr Topham seemed taken aback when I told him I
believe that many 18 year olds are providing alcohol to their younger
schoolmates. To him, this figure was “less than 10%.” I beg to differ and
believe this statistic is far higher and with a proper investigation, this
statement can be properly backed. Teenagers are not often pinching liquor from
their parents’ personal stash. Often they source out older friends to provide
them with cheap booze.
Alongside the sheer ignorance of many 18 and 19 year old
teenagers, who often flock to the overrated Freguson bar at Massey or Deep
Creek Brewery in Browns Bay, there is a consensus young people can do fine under
the current alcohol laws. Yet again and again, it is young people causing
trouble. Again and again, young people who are involved in the drunken driving
car crashes. If these statistics were recorded, maybe those supporting a lower
drinking age would be a bit more questionable of how irresponsible young
drinkers are. The problems may begin at 15, 16,17, but they carry on far past
those blissful years of ignorance.
What’s that, no one’s
watching the Rugby?
Obviously, gambling money away is no longer sufficient for
that shrivelled, manky Rupert Murdoch. With his empire’s decision to prolong
the rugby season and have it run almost non-stop from February to December, the
player’s wellbeing is barely intact. Injuries are no longer one off occurrences
from heavy contact. Not getting injured is seen as weird. Super Rugby only
stops in July (rather than May for Super 14). Who’s benefitting from it?
Many great rugby stadiums struggle to fill up halfway to
capacity. Eden Park, which was stuffed with 60,000 people for last year’s Rugby
World Cup Final, became the laughing stock of the competition, struggling to
seat more than 10,000 for the Blues games. Then again, the Blues were awful
this year.
The quality of Rugby has not gotten better either with an
extra team competing. Get rid of the Rebels and Lions (or Kings) for good. 13
good teams competing in the toughest domestic rugby competition will revitalise
an interest in New Zealand’s national game.
Rather than hearing “Right, time to watch the footy,” it’s
“Oh, more rugby.”
Lose the money spinning stupidity or lose an audience of
loyal viewers Murdoch. You decide what’s better.
I hear that the
alleged comedian Russell Brand made an appearance in New Zealand. He’s never
struck me as somebody who has a genuine wit about him or a particularly funny
person. It was funnier hearing that hundreds of people had bought tickets to
his show. Too often, his jokes are nothing more than a slew of stupidity. Some
people may genuinely find it funny. I can concede that. Everyone has a
different sense of humour. But Russell Brand has his own sense of humour; one
which he picked up on some distant planet, well outside the Milky Way.
Thursday, 22 November 2012
The Middle East conflict, the gay red top and Jon Bridges
Some papers which I open have unrelenting support for the Israeli movement. Many New Zealand media outlets mistakenly lend their support to the Palestine/Gaza movement. Is it more favourable to support one or the other? It really depends on who you have more sympathy for.
Israel has every right to defend itself against rockets and missiles. Pacifistic people would be able to relate to such an ordeal. How frightening would it be if your neighbourhoods were bombarded by air strikes? It would be even more horrific if your own Government says "we're not going to defend ourselves." This happens to be Israel's main position. The hysterically fascist Hamas movement repeatedly finds reasons to launch massive counter strikes against Israel.
With that said, I do not see Israel as an innocent lamb either. Their exercise of extreme brutality on many Palestinian people is not justifiable. Countless arrests are made on suspected terrorists, most of whom have not been given a fair trial to defend themselves. If the war is as simple as a fight over a piece of land, Israel is often exerting their superiority unfairly, using a powerful Military to establish a presence which is often overbearing and domineering.
Get over yourself Mr. Mckellen
Ian Mckellen is a fine actor, best known for his portrayal as Gandalf in the Lord of the Rings trilogy. Altogether, his career has spanned over four decades. Despite his amazing on screen presence, his off screen ramblings are anything but amazing. His criticism of Mr. Slippery's "gay red top" remarks are rather odd. While it is strange to have a Prime Minister using teenage jargon, what's more amazing is Mr. Mckellen, in his rather annoying, politically correct manner, warning Mr. Key to watch his language.
I know several homosexuals. Each of them got put forth this question from me: Did you get offended by the Prime Minister's "gay red top," comment? Each one dismissed it as unoffensive. If a radio DJ were to use "retard" to describe somebody they met overseas in a bar, would all people actually suffering from mental retardation feel personally attacked? Unlikely.
Ian Mckellen ought to get over himself. The use of the word is not belittling to a homosexual person in any shape or form. The homosexual community claimed the word 'gay' for themselves. It is a rather ambiguous word, which thanks to freedom of speech, people can use in any way the please.
Jon Bridges=motivation squared
Jon Bridges, a comedian, television producer, as well as an enthusiastic cyclist launched his book 'Easy Rider.' I was fortunate enough to go to the book launch and meet with Jon. He is a very passionate man, who makes very good company. Anyone looking for inspiration to begin cycling or just to get motivated ought to read his rather charming book.
Israel has every right to defend itself against rockets and missiles. Pacifistic people would be able to relate to such an ordeal. How frightening would it be if your neighbourhoods were bombarded by air strikes? It would be even more horrific if your own Government says "we're not going to defend ourselves." This happens to be Israel's main position. The hysterically fascist Hamas movement repeatedly finds reasons to launch massive counter strikes against Israel.
With that said, I do not see Israel as an innocent lamb either. Their exercise of extreme brutality on many Palestinian people is not justifiable. Countless arrests are made on suspected terrorists, most of whom have not been given a fair trial to defend themselves. If the war is as simple as a fight over a piece of land, Israel is often exerting their superiority unfairly, using a powerful Military to establish a presence which is often overbearing and domineering.
Get over yourself Mr. Mckellen
Ian Mckellen is a fine actor, best known for his portrayal as Gandalf in the Lord of the Rings trilogy. Altogether, his career has spanned over four decades. Despite his amazing on screen presence, his off screen ramblings are anything but amazing. His criticism of Mr. Slippery's "gay red top" remarks are rather odd. While it is strange to have a Prime Minister using teenage jargon, what's more amazing is Mr. Mckellen, in his rather annoying, politically correct manner, warning Mr. Key to watch his language.
I know several homosexuals. Each of them got put forth this question from me: Did you get offended by the Prime Minister's "gay red top," comment? Each one dismissed it as unoffensive. If a radio DJ were to use "retard" to describe somebody they met overseas in a bar, would all people actually suffering from mental retardation feel personally attacked? Unlikely.
Ian Mckellen ought to get over himself. The use of the word is not belittling to a homosexual person in any shape or form. The homosexual community claimed the word 'gay' for themselves. It is a rather ambiguous word, which thanks to freedom of speech, people can use in any way the please.
Jon Bridges=motivation squared
Jon Bridges, a comedian, television producer, as well as an enthusiastic cyclist launched his book 'Easy Rider.' I was fortunate enough to go to the book launch and meet with Jon. He is a very passionate man, who makes very good company. Anyone looking for inspiration to begin cycling or just to get motivated ought to read his rather charming book.
Saturday, 17 November 2012
Party politicking and some other issues
I don't see much of a future for David Shearer. As sympathetic as some Labour party loyalists may be to his scratchy party policies, he doesn't have much of a chance. His leadership is much like Phil Goff's. Too much hot air, nothing too intelligent to say and not enough of an intellect to outsmart Mr. Slippery.
Shearer was voted in as the Labour Party leader after another electoral defeat in the 2011 election. It was hoped Labour would embrace Shearer's different approach to politics, so that left wing voters could be optimistic about 2014's election chances. To date, it has been to no avail. Shearer can clap his hand over his mouth in disgust at slip ups which Mr. Key has had. Acting surprised means very little in politics. Good delivery seems to be the most important way of getting in to office (sadly). Gone are those days where delivering good results determined one's political future.
National will likely win the next election, forming a coalition with NZ First, as well as the Conservative party (who are quickly gaining the support of disillusioned voters from National and Labour). After National's third tirade in office concludes, a Labour/Green coalition will seize power, introducing "green taxes" alongside squandered spending. Something which their voters find out too late is how domineering such policies are. These days, people who question the Green party's motives are met with scorn. Bring it on. The whole man made climate change farce has proven to be nothing more than a totalitarian control method. Unemployment benefits place's a person's entire livelihood on the state, who can eliminate or reduce these payments at any time.
New Zealand beneficiaries need not worry. National's spending on handouts has increased, despite having prepared a "zero budget." Although New Zealand politics is among the least corrupt, constant ramblings, alongside radical career saving moves has left everyone with a centre wing party, a left wing party and a radical left wing party. Conservatives can be optimistic. Their party is gaining a loyal support group (like the Green Party did in its early days) simply by standing true to policies which they believe will better society.
Don't be surprised if the Greens and Conservatives gain an increased number of votes in the next election. Then again, don't expect a high number of people to even turn up to vote for the next election. Why vote for someone you can't trust?
Going to Doha in true Green style
The ongoing talk about man man climate change continues, with a youth delegate being flown to Doha to enter talks with other nations. What exactly any of these representatives how to achieve remains a complete mystery. Unless each of them travels in an paddle boat to the delegation, they've immediately contributed to "climate change," unless someone makes an original contribution, no one is likely to give them any attention.
Some contributors have been critical of the skepticism which this blog has viewed on climate change being man made. Well, perhaps they'd like to give a reasonable answer as to why the world was warmer during the Middle Ages then it was now. As far as most scientists can see, people were not melting, polar bears weren't going extinct, island nations weren't drowning in seawater and climate extremes weren't threatening species.
***Before the end of the month, there shall be another article on Alcohol. As it stands, this blog already has two posts on the issue. Studies by Massey University show how people now drink with an intention to get drunk fast. Later on this month, a discussion will be up here and on Getfrank.co.nz.***
There has been an outcry over the rather unfortunate death of the woman who died in Ireland after being refused an abortion. While it is indeed very sad she and her unborn child were killed, a lot of the lax abortion laws lead to the premature deaths of many innocent children who are denied the right to life on earth. Many, like this rather rude blogger http://denisneedshair.blogspot.co.nz/2012/11/why-your-religion-has-no-right-to-put.html, look to dehumanise the unborn child by calling it a Fetus and saying it is nothing more than a blob of jelly. Abortion should only be reserved for exceptional circumstances like rape and if the mother's life is in danger.
Those who want to see what an aborted baby looks like can find some pictures here. *Warning The following pictures are very graphic and discretion is heavily advised.*
http://www.google.co.nz/imgres?um=1&hl=en&sa=N&biw=1280&bih=709&tbm=isch&tbnid=ckVINo3pvRkLgM:&imgrefurl=http://ronabbass.wordpress.com/2011/11/11/aborted-baby-fetal-cells-used-as-food-flavour-enhancers-pepsi-shareholders-opposed/&docid=fnKZSKLvZUghnM&imgurl=http://ronabbass.files.wordpress.com/2011/11/aborted-fetus.jpg&w=450&h=376&ei=YkyoUKauNYTmmAXizIHYDg&zoom=1&iact=hc&vpx=369&vpy=142&dur=1114&hovh=205&hovw=246&tx=180&ty=149&sig=104751906727083103793&page=1&tbnh=131&tbnw=158&start=0&ndsp=20&ved=1t:429,r:1,s:0,i:71
http://www.google.co.nz/imgres?um=1&hl=en&sa=N&biw=1280&bih=709&tbm=isch&tbnid=tukAjB1u89RZ3M:&imgrefurl=http://www.morelove.in/index.php%3Fid%3D112&docid=UEUKnjXVqu_E4M&imgurl=http://www.morelove.in/images/Abort73_com%252520%252520Abortion%252520Pictures1_files/abortion-08-01.jpg&w=584&h=438&ei=YkyoUKauNYTmmAXizIHYDg&zoom=1&iact=hc&vpx=817&vpy=231&dur=2026&hovh=194&hovw=259&tx=145&ty=75&sig=104751906727083103793&page=2&tbnh=138&tbnw=191&start=20&ndsp=27&ved=1t:429,r:28,s:0,i:157
http://www.google.co.nz/imgres?um=1&hl=en&sa=N&biw=1280&bih=709&tbm=isch&tbnid=ldvX9n528KnN8M:&imgrefurl=http://www.stopstericycle.com/2011/06/20/medical-waste-giant-stericycle-responsible-for-illegal-dumping-of-aborted-babies-in-texas/&docid=FUtSAH7cFxgvjM&imgurl=http://www.stopstericycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/02/baby6.jpg&w=288&h=396&ei=YkyoUKauNYTmmAXizIHYDg&zoom=1&iact=hc&vpx=541&vpy=214&dur=239&hovh=263&hovw=191&tx=93&ty=143&sig=104751906727083103793&page=2&tbnh=141&tbnw=92&start=20&ndsp=27&ved=1t:429,r:43,s:0,i:202
Shearer was voted in as the Labour Party leader after another electoral defeat in the 2011 election. It was hoped Labour would embrace Shearer's different approach to politics, so that left wing voters could be optimistic about 2014's election chances. To date, it has been to no avail. Shearer can clap his hand over his mouth in disgust at slip ups which Mr. Key has had. Acting surprised means very little in politics. Good delivery seems to be the most important way of getting in to office (sadly). Gone are those days where delivering good results determined one's political future.
National will likely win the next election, forming a coalition with NZ First, as well as the Conservative party (who are quickly gaining the support of disillusioned voters from National and Labour). After National's third tirade in office concludes, a Labour/Green coalition will seize power, introducing "green taxes" alongside squandered spending. Something which their voters find out too late is how domineering such policies are. These days, people who question the Green party's motives are met with scorn. Bring it on. The whole man made climate change farce has proven to be nothing more than a totalitarian control method. Unemployment benefits place's a person's entire livelihood on the state, who can eliminate or reduce these payments at any time.
New Zealand beneficiaries need not worry. National's spending on handouts has increased, despite having prepared a "zero budget." Although New Zealand politics is among the least corrupt, constant ramblings, alongside radical career saving moves has left everyone with a centre wing party, a left wing party and a radical left wing party. Conservatives can be optimistic. Their party is gaining a loyal support group (like the Green Party did in its early days) simply by standing true to policies which they believe will better society.
Don't be surprised if the Greens and Conservatives gain an increased number of votes in the next election. Then again, don't expect a high number of people to even turn up to vote for the next election. Why vote for someone you can't trust?
Going to Doha in true Green style
The ongoing talk about man man climate change continues, with a youth delegate being flown to Doha to enter talks with other nations. What exactly any of these representatives how to achieve remains a complete mystery. Unless each of them travels in an paddle boat to the delegation, they've immediately contributed to "climate change," unless someone makes an original contribution, no one is likely to give them any attention.
Some contributors have been critical of the skepticism which this blog has viewed on climate change being man made. Well, perhaps they'd like to give a reasonable answer as to why the world was warmer during the Middle Ages then it was now. As far as most scientists can see, people were not melting, polar bears weren't going extinct, island nations weren't drowning in seawater and climate extremes weren't threatening species.
***Before the end of the month, there shall be another article on Alcohol. As it stands, this blog already has two posts on the issue. Studies by Massey University show how people now drink with an intention to get drunk fast. Later on this month, a discussion will be up here and on Getfrank.co.nz.***
There has been an outcry over the rather unfortunate death of the woman who died in Ireland after being refused an abortion. While it is indeed very sad she and her unborn child were killed, a lot of the lax abortion laws lead to the premature deaths of many innocent children who are denied the right to life on earth. Many, like this rather rude blogger http://denisneedshair.blogspot.co.nz/2012/11/why-your-religion-has-no-right-to-put.html, look to dehumanise the unborn child by calling it a Fetus and saying it is nothing more than a blob of jelly. Abortion should only be reserved for exceptional circumstances like rape and if the mother's life is in danger.
Those who want to see what an aborted baby looks like can find some pictures here. *Warning The following pictures are very graphic and discretion is heavily advised.*
http://www.google.co.nz/imgres?um=1&hl=en&sa=N&biw=1280&bih=709&tbm=isch&tbnid=ckVINo3pvRkLgM:&imgrefurl=http://ronabbass.wordpress.com/2011/11/11/aborted-baby-fetal-cells-used-as-food-flavour-enhancers-pepsi-shareholders-opposed/&docid=fnKZSKLvZUghnM&imgurl=http://ronabbass.files.wordpress.com/2011/11/aborted-fetus.jpg&w=450&h=376&ei=YkyoUKauNYTmmAXizIHYDg&zoom=1&iact=hc&vpx=369&vpy=142&dur=1114&hovh=205&hovw=246&tx=180&ty=149&sig=104751906727083103793&page=1&tbnh=131&tbnw=158&start=0&ndsp=20&ved=1t:429,r:1,s:0,i:71
http://www.google.co.nz/imgres?um=1&hl=en&sa=N&biw=1280&bih=709&tbm=isch&tbnid=tukAjB1u89RZ3M:&imgrefurl=http://www.morelove.in/index.php%3Fid%3D112&docid=UEUKnjXVqu_E4M&imgurl=http://www.morelove.in/images/Abort73_com%252520%252520Abortion%252520Pictures1_files/abortion-08-01.jpg&w=584&h=438&ei=YkyoUKauNYTmmAXizIHYDg&zoom=1&iact=hc&vpx=817&vpy=231&dur=2026&hovh=194&hovw=259&tx=145&ty=75&sig=104751906727083103793&page=2&tbnh=138&tbnw=191&start=20&ndsp=27&ved=1t:429,r:28,s:0,i:157
http://www.google.co.nz/imgres?um=1&hl=en&sa=N&biw=1280&bih=709&tbm=isch&tbnid=ldvX9n528KnN8M:&imgrefurl=http://www.stopstericycle.com/2011/06/20/medical-waste-giant-stericycle-responsible-for-illegal-dumping-of-aborted-babies-in-texas/&docid=FUtSAH7cFxgvjM&imgurl=http://www.stopstericycle.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/02/baby6.jpg&w=288&h=396&ei=YkyoUKauNYTmmAXizIHYDg&zoom=1&iact=hc&vpx=541&vpy=214&dur=239&hovh=263&hovw=191&tx=93&ty=143&sig=104751906727083103793&page=2&tbnh=141&tbnw=92&start=20&ndsp=27&ved=1t:429,r:43,s:0,i:202
Tuesday, 13 November 2012
A fifteen story building of immorality
Only in dingy murky cities like Las Vegas can you expect to find the most abject immorality swarming around every corner. The foul dust of lies and deceit moves around from person to person. It was the setting of the highly overrated Hangover movie. Now it seems that New Zealand is making a move to eclipse Las Vegas measuring stick for vulgar taste by building a fifteen story brothel within the central business district. It's a proposal which has been put forth by the Chow brothers, two men intent on cheapening sexual intimacy , constructing a building almost everyone will be ashamed to point out to overseas tourists.
Previously, it would seem like a moral outrage to condemn such an institution. But it is a timely reminder of 21st century life where people wish to believe they are able to do anything without being judged. As it stands, New Zealand paved the way for the entire country promoting legal prostitution. All of this courtesy of a politically correct Labour government. For the prostitution bill, you can thank one Dillon Barnett, who ought to be pushed hard to go speak as passionately to young children about the bill as he did in parliament. Maybe then he'd start to ask whether it was worthwhile promoting such a bill.
EPO, testosterone? No they're just caffeine pills
What a humorous little spectacle it is seeing Lance Armstrong continue to deny doping, despite the massive 250 page report. After reading the report, which includes testimony from former teammates, doctors, alongside ex-wives, you'd be incredulous to think Armstrong could have won any of his seven titles clean. A recent post of him lying on the couch next to his seven yellow jerseys is a rather ineffective "up yours USADA." Amazing what a bullying, confrontational, dreamer personality can achieve.
***If Hekia Parata ever thinks before speaking, New Zealand's spasmodic restructuring wouldn't be so disastrous. The closure of special schools around the country will increase stress levels among the children who once attended them, the worried parents and the anxious teachers. She certainly didn't consult with any families before making this decision.***
Previously, it would seem like a moral outrage to condemn such an institution. But it is a timely reminder of 21st century life where people wish to believe they are able to do anything without being judged. As it stands, New Zealand paved the way for the entire country promoting legal prostitution. All of this courtesy of a politically correct Labour government. For the prostitution bill, you can thank one Dillon Barnett, who ought to be pushed hard to go speak as passionately to young children about the bill as he did in parliament. Maybe then he'd start to ask whether it was worthwhile promoting such a bill.
EPO, testosterone? No they're just caffeine pills
What a humorous little spectacle it is seeing Lance Armstrong continue to deny doping, despite the massive 250 page report. After reading the report, which includes testimony from former teammates, doctors, alongside ex-wives, you'd be incredulous to think Armstrong could have won any of his seven titles clean. A recent post of him lying on the couch next to his seven yellow jerseys is a rather ineffective "up yours USADA." Amazing what a bullying, confrontational, dreamer personality can achieve.
***If Hekia Parata ever thinks before speaking, New Zealand's spasmodic restructuring wouldn't be so disastrous. The closure of special schools around the country will increase stress levels among the children who once attended them, the worried parents and the anxious teachers. She certainly didn't consult with any families before making this decision.***