Spectacles
Saturday, September 30, 2006
Tinned Blue Pigs?
Update: Many thanks to Cozymax for pointing out that this is pate manufactured by a Romanian company called Antrefrig.
Pancake and sausage on a stick with chocolate chip
This product doesn't appear to have made their website yet, but there is a similar product with blueberry.
Tajikistan Bans Gold Teeth
In a country where most of the people are living below the poverty line, gold teeth is certainly a no-no among government personnel.
Tajikistani president Emomali Rakhmonov is set to ban state employees from wearing gold teeth to improve his country's image.
Rakhmonov announced his decision after meeting a teacher with a mouth full of gold teeth during a visit to a school in Dushanbe.
"Teachers complain about small salaries, but still wear golden teeth," he said, "How can international organizations believe in your poverty, when the mouth of a teacher is full of gold? This is not due to our culture and traditions."
Sources said that should Rakhmonov implement the new ruling an estimated 50% of state officials will have to resign or have their teeth replaced.
Tajikistani president Emomali Rakhmonov is set to ban state employees from wearing gold teeth to improve his country's image.
Rakhmonov announced his decision after meeting a teacher with a mouth full of gold teeth during a visit to a school in Dushanbe.
"Teachers complain about small salaries, but still wear golden teeth," he said, "How can international organizations believe in your poverty, when the mouth of a teacher is full of gold? This is not due to our culture and traditions."
Sources said that should Rakhmonov implement the new ruling an estimated 50% of state officials will have to resign or have their teeth replaced.
Suspect Orders Pizza, Does Laundry, Attacks Woman
A Bakersfield man will appear in court on Friday after police said he was behind a bizarre robbery and attack on Wednesday.
Officers said Larcellus Scott, 23, broke into the home of Denise Bealessio, 50, on Westwold Drive in southwest Bakersfield. The Bakersfield Police Department said he found an old checkbook in the house and ordered a pizza. They said he had also done some laundry.
When Bealessio returned home, a pizza delivery man was waiting outside for her. Because she didn't order a pizza, she sent the pizza man on his way. She went inside the home, and that's when, she told police, that Bealessio attacked her. She escaped and ran to nearby Bakersfield Fire Station No. 9.
Bealessio was not harmed in the attack.
Officers said Larcellus Scott, 23, broke into the home of Denise Bealessio, 50, on Westwold Drive in southwest Bakersfield. The Bakersfield Police Department said he found an old checkbook in the house and ordered a pizza. They said he had also done some laundry.
When Bealessio returned home, a pizza delivery man was waiting outside for her. Because she didn't order a pizza, she sent the pizza man on his way. She went inside the home, and that's when, she told police, that Bealessio attacked her. She escaped and ran to nearby Bakersfield Fire Station No. 9.
Bealessio was not harmed in the attack.
Ethnic games tainted by cross-dressing cheats
Touted as a celebration of sport, culture and national unity, the Ethnic Minority Games held in southwestern China descended into a farce of cross-dressing cheating and mob violence, state media reported.
Athletes representing China's 55 ethnic minorities assembled in southwestern Yunnan province last week to compete in blow-pipe darts, horse-riding events and other traditional sports.
But blind pursuit of victory lead to some unorthodox tactics.
Results of the women's dragon-boat racing event were reviewed after athletes complained of "big women with Adam's apples". Referees subsequently found that several of the competitors were actually men wearing wigs.
Athletes representing China's 55 ethnic minorities assembled in southwestern Yunnan province last week to compete in blow-pipe darts, horse-riding events and other traditional sports.
But blind pursuit of victory lead to some unorthodox tactics.
Results of the women's dragon-boat racing event were reviewed after athletes complained of "big women with Adam's apples". Referees subsequently found that several of the competitors were actually men wearing wigs.
Gormley's latest work under fire
The creator of The Angel of the North is in the final stages of his latest work, a 25m (82ft) sculpture made entirely from recycled materials. Antony Gormley enlisted the help of local people to create the structure above Dreamland Fun Fair in Margate, Kent. Volunteers spent two months collecting and sorting materials for the project before climbing up the huge framework to pack it.
The artwork, entitled Waste Man, will will be set alight later today as part of a day of filmed live performances in Margate called Exodus Day.
The artwork, entitled Waste Man, will will be set alight later today as part of a day of filmed live performances in Margate called Exodus Day.
School bus turns boy away for not being Christian
An asthmatic boy was refused a place on a school bus and told that he must walk six miles home because he was not a baptised Christian.
Thomas Rosevear, 13, a pupil at a Church of England comprehensive school, was stopped at the door of the bus as his friends got on. When his mother, Lin, complained she was told that if she wanted a pass she would have to pay £270 because her son was not a Christian.
Mrs Rosevear, a lapsed Baptist, said: “It is absolutely outrageous. My child is being discriminated against because I didn’t have him baptised. How dare they play God with demands like this.”
Mrs Rosevear also said: “My son’s lack of religion has never been a problem before, so why now? They let him into the school, so why can’t he get the bus just because he doesn’t share their beliefs? If they let him go to the school, why are they demanding so much money to let him get the bus there? It is hardly the most Christian thing to do.”
Thomas Rosevear, 13, a pupil at a Church of England comprehensive school, was stopped at the door of the bus as his friends got on. When his mother, Lin, complained she was told that if she wanted a pass she would have to pay £270 because her son was not a Christian.
Mrs Rosevear, a lapsed Baptist, said: “It is absolutely outrageous. My child is being discriminated against because I didn’t have him baptised. How dare they play God with demands like this.”
Mrs Rosevear also said: “My son’s lack of religion has never been a problem before, so why now? They let him into the school, so why can’t he get the bus just because he doesn’t share their beliefs? If they let him go to the school, why are they demanding so much money to let him get the bus there? It is hardly the most Christian thing to do.”
Couple accused of hanging up baby
A couple accused of hanging their baby from a washing line and taking photos of it have been arrested on suspicion of child cruelty.
Staff at the Taunton branch of Morrisons alerted police when they saw the pictures, which had been brought in for development.
"We reviewed the pictures and arrested a man and a woman on suspicion of causing child cruelty," said Avon and Somerset police spokesman Dan Mountain.
"Both were questioned by officers from the child abuse investigation team and were released on police bail pending further inquiries."
Staff at the Taunton branch of Morrisons alerted police when they saw the pictures, which had been brought in for development.
"We reviewed the pictures and arrested a man and a woman on suspicion of causing child cruelty," said Avon and Somerset police spokesman Dan Mountain.
"Both were questioned by officers from the child abuse investigation team and were released on police bail pending further inquiries."
£250 to move pigeon chick from Scottish Parliament
Officials of the Scottish Parliament have drawn up emergency plans to move a pigeon chick from its home on top of the building in Edinburgh to a wildlife sanctuary 100 miles away.
The removal of the chick and its nest, which has been prompted by health and safety fears, would cost approximately £250. The nest was discovered this week above the public entrance to the £430 million building despite the installation of anti-bird spikes over the summer.
Under the plan, the chick would be moved to Hessilhead Wildlife Rescue Trust, near Beith, Ayrshire.
Margo McDonald, an independent MSP who has been a vocal critic of the parliament building, which opened three years late and 10 times over budget, said: "For £250 a bird, I will wring their necks myself."
Whilst in London, the mayor's quest to clear Trafalgar Square of pigeons has cost at least £226,000.
Ken Livingstone hired a pair of Harris Hawks to fly over the popular tourist spot and scare the pigeons away.
Figures released show that since November 2003, 121 of the birds have been killed - an average of £90 each.
The removal of the chick and its nest, which has been prompted by health and safety fears, would cost approximately £250. The nest was discovered this week above the public entrance to the £430 million building despite the installation of anti-bird spikes over the summer.
Under the plan, the chick would be moved to Hessilhead Wildlife Rescue Trust, near Beith, Ayrshire.
Margo McDonald, an independent MSP who has been a vocal critic of the parliament building, which opened three years late and 10 times over budget, said: "For £250 a bird, I will wring their necks myself."
Whilst in London, the mayor's quest to clear Trafalgar Square of pigeons has cost at least £226,000.
Ken Livingstone hired a pair of Harris Hawks to fly over the popular tourist spot and scare the pigeons away.
Figures released show that since November 2003, 121 of the birds have been killed - an average of £90 each.
Don't clean off that graffiti - it's an art installation
When a train driver saw fresh graffiti at a station he passes through daily, he called the police. To his astonishment he was told that his employers — who spend £250,000 a year fighting vandalism — had sanctioned the “art”.
The paintings, at the entrance to Jesmond Metro station, in Newcastle upon Tyne, are by urban artists exhibiting in the Baltic arts centre in Gateshead.
Huw Lewis, of the train operator Nexus, believes that the artwork at Jesmond will help to fight vandalism by letting people present their art in a controlled way. “What we are doing here is consistent with that,” he said.
The paintings, at the entrance to Jesmond Metro station, in Newcastle upon Tyne, are by urban artists exhibiting in the Baltic arts centre in Gateshead.
Huw Lewis, of the train operator Nexus, believes that the artwork at Jesmond will help to fight vandalism by letting people present their art in a controlled way. “What we are doing here is consistent with that,” he said.
Protest over Banbury Cross horse
A figure from a famous nursery rhyme has been caught up in a safety row.
The "fine lady" character from the "Ride A Cock Horse" rhyme is being prevented from riding her horse to Banbury Cross because police object.
A white horse had been specially trained to lead a protest march over plans to downgrade key services at the Oxfordshire town's Horton Hospital.
Instead, the march on Friday evening is now likely to be taken over by a mock horse ridden by a man in a dress.
The "fine lady" character from the "Ride A Cock Horse" rhyme is being prevented from riding her horse to Banbury Cross because police object.
A white horse had been specially trained to lead a protest march over plans to downgrade key services at the Oxfordshire town's Horton Hospital.
Instead, the march on Friday evening is now likely to be taken over by a mock horse ridden by a man in a dress.
Curator dons Gladiator kit and confronts rival in real life museum battle
In the guise of Roman centurion Maximus Gluteus and armed with bloodthirsty stories of yesteryear, Keith Mulhearn has brought the past to life for the benefit of thousands of tourists.
But there was nothing imaginary about his temper when told the man who had taken over his job as curator of the Roman Bath House Museum in York was wearing his soldier's outfit and had stolen his replica weaponry, a court heard yesterday.
Like a crazed gladiator the 40-year-old strode into the building - where almost 2,000 years ago Romans gathered to wash and socialise - to allegedly confront the enemy in the form of new curator Graham Harris, 58.
Holding a Roman-style helmet and grabbing a 'stabbing' sword he came face to face with the frail Mr Harris, who was also wearing a Roman costume as part of his job.
But there was nothing imaginary about his temper when told the man who had taken over his job as curator of the Roman Bath House Museum in York was wearing his soldier's outfit and had stolen his replica weaponry, a court heard yesterday.
Like a crazed gladiator the 40-year-old strode into the building - where almost 2,000 years ago Romans gathered to wash and socialise - to allegedly confront the enemy in the form of new curator Graham Harris, 58.
Holding a Roman-style helmet and grabbing a 'stabbing' sword he came face to face with the frail Mr Harris, who was also wearing a Roman costume as part of his job.
Woman finally cures her 40-year fear of vegetables
A woman who claims to have been terrified of vegetables for more than 40 years declared herself on the way to being cured yesterday.
Krissie Palmer-Howarth, 61, a cabaret singer from Newhaven, East Sussex, has not been able to handle vegetables or even say their names since developing her phobia at the age of 17. Just their smell made her feel sick.
Now, after a session of hypnotherapy, Miss Palmer-Howarth says that she can stand to be close to vegetables, even broccoli, which she detests most of all, though she is not yet at the stage where she can handle them.
Fear of vegetables is not unknown to the Royal College of Psychiatrists and the condition is called lachanophobia.
Krissie Palmer-Howarth, 61, a cabaret singer from Newhaven, East Sussex, has not been able to handle vegetables or even say their names since developing her phobia at the age of 17. Just their smell made her feel sick.
Now, after a session of hypnotherapy, Miss Palmer-Howarth says that she can stand to be close to vegetables, even broccoli, which she detests most of all, though she is not yet at the stage where she can handle them.
Fear of vegetables is not unknown to the Royal College of Psychiatrists and the condition is called lachanophobia.
Friday, September 29, 2006
Remember Rings - Never Forget an Anniversary
The Remember Ring utilizes patent pending Hot Spot technology to deliver a reminder that it's "That time of the year again!"
24 hours before your special day, the Hot Spot on the interior surface of your Remember Ring will warm to 120ºF for approximately 10 seconds, and continue to warm up every hour, on the hour, all day long!
Hot enough to cause discomfort but not hot enough to burn - the Remember Ring is impossible to ignore!
Remember Rings have a lifetime warranty.
This is a concept product.
24 hours before your special day, the Hot Spot on the interior surface of your Remember Ring will warm to 120ºF for approximately 10 seconds, and continue to warm up every hour, on the hour, all day long!
Hot enough to cause discomfort but not hot enough to burn - the Remember Ring is impossible to ignore!
Remember Rings have a lifetime warranty.
This is a concept product.
Extremely Camp Coffee
Following on from my recent post concerning the Camp Coffee label changing for politically correct reasons, I found this produced by some clever soul at b3ta.
Injured penis worth $1.5 million to jury
A Miami-Dade jury awarded $1.5 million to former South Beach bartender Patrick Timothy O'Neill, who said two urologists injured his penis while treating him for warts.
O'Neill, 43, filed suit in '98 against Drs. Bernardo Lederman and Jacob Cohen, along with South Beach Urological Associates.
Lederman ''surgically removed'' three papilloma on April 18, 1996. Afterward, O'Neill says, he developed an infection and received treatment through the following month. 'On each and every visit, the defendants assured [O'Neill] that there was nothing wrong with his penis and that he was `obsessing over nothing,' '' says the complaint, filed by attorney David H. Gold.
Gold says O'Neill suffered constant penile pain, plus curvature and an atrophic-like condition that caused a decrease in size. O'Neill has undergone treatments for the past 10 years, including anesthesia injections into the penis and spinal epidural space.
''He has to use Lidocaine every day on his penis,'' Gold says. He must also take the painkiller Percocet before and after sex.
O'Neill, 43, filed suit in '98 against Drs. Bernardo Lederman and Jacob Cohen, along with South Beach Urological Associates.
Lederman ''surgically removed'' three papilloma on April 18, 1996. Afterward, O'Neill says, he developed an infection and received treatment through the following month. 'On each and every visit, the defendants assured [O'Neill] that there was nothing wrong with his penis and that he was `obsessing over nothing,' '' says the complaint, filed by attorney David H. Gold.
Gold says O'Neill suffered constant penile pain, plus curvature and an atrophic-like condition that caused a decrease in size. O'Neill has undergone treatments for the past 10 years, including anesthesia injections into the penis and spinal epidural space.
''He has to use Lidocaine every day on his penis,'' Gold says. He must also take the painkiller Percocet before and after sex.
YouTube 'police prank' charges
A man has been charged in connection with a prank in which three men posing as police officers stopped a teenage boy to question him about a fictitious robbery. The incident, which took place at night in Queens, New York, in July, was recorded on video camera and later appeared on the internet website YouTube.
Gazi Abura, 21, is being held pending arraignment on various charges, including impersonating a police officer and unlawful imprisonment. The men made the boy, 16, stand next to their car as they told him he matched the description of the suspect in a robbery that had just occurred. The video shows the boy complying with all the men’s requests and offering them his high school identification card.
The victim later heard from friends that the incident had been posted on the internet site for home-made films. Abura could face up to a year in jail and a $1,000 (£530) fine if convicted.
Maybe Merseyside Police could consider tracking down these guys.
Gazi Abura, 21, is being held pending arraignment on various charges, including impersonating a police officer and unlawful imprisonment. The men made the boy, 16, stand next to their car as they told him he matched the description of the suspect in a robbery that had just occurred. The video shows the boy complying with all the men’s requests and offering them his high school identification card.
The victim later heard from friends that the incident had been posted on the internet site for home-made films. Abura could face up to a year in jail and a $1,000 (£530) fine if convicted.
Maybe Merseyside Police could consider tracking down these guys.
The Sun Jar
Jam jars store jam, the Sun jar collects and stores sunshine so that you can use it at night.
Available soon.
Man Allegedly Seeks Revenge Over Glasses
A man upset that his neighbour's children helped break his wife's eyeglasses is accused of trying to bomb the neighbour's house in retaliation. David Michielsen, 27, of Hammond is charged with detonating a destructive device with intent to intimidate or destroy and manufacturing a destructive device. He faces 58 years in prison if convicted on both counts.
The neighbour told police she was visiting Michielsen's wife when her children and Michielsen's broke the glasses. Michielsen ordered her and her children to leave.
Later that night, he called the neighbour and asked for a pair of glasses he could use to fix his wife's broken ones. The neighbor told police she complied, but Michielsen threw the glasses into her house about 10 minutes later, saying they wouldn't work.
About an hour later, the woman heard a noise and looked outside. She saw Michielsen running away and spotted an item on her air conditioner that turned out to be a canister with a lighted green wick. She extinguished the wick and called police.
Police said the canister was an explosive device made from a carbon dioxide container filled with a shiny black powder.
The neighbour told police she was visiting Michielsen's wife when her children and Michielsen's broke the glasses. Michielsen ordered her and her children to leave.
Later that night, he called the neighbour and asked for a pair of glasses he could use to fix his wife's broken ones. The neighbor told police she complied, but Michielsen threw the glasses into her house about 10 minutes later, saying they wouldn't work.
About an hour later, the woman heard a noise and looked outside. She saw Michielsen running away and spotted an item on her air conditioner that turned out to be a canister with a lighted green wick. She extinguished the wick and called police.
Police said the canister was an explosive device made from a carbon dioxide container filled with a shiny black powder.
China denounces art teacher's naked lecture
A Chinese culture ministry official has denounced a university professor who stripped naked in front of students and teachers during an art class.
Mo Xiaoxin, a 56-year-old assistant professor at a university in Changzhou, in eastern Jiangsu province, shocked students by stripping during a lecture on "body art" to emphasize the "power" of the body and to "challenge taboos".
"There are no taboos in the field of research, but to do this directly in the course of teaching is obviously not appropriate," saidTian Junting, a culture ministry official.
"Professor Mo appeared emotionally excited at the time", a student is quoted as saying. "As he was talking, he undid his belt and took off his pants, and stood naked in the middle of the lecture podium."
Mo Xiaoxin, a 56-year-old assistant professor at a university in Changzhou, in eastern Jiangsu province, shocked students by stripping during a lecture on "body art" to emphasize the "power" of the body and to "challenge taboos".
"There are no taboos in the field of research, but to do this directly in the course of teaching is obviously not appropriate," saidTian Junting, a culture ministry official.
"Professor Mo appeared emotionally excited at the time", a student is quoted as saying. "As he was talking, he undid his belt and took off his pants, and stood naked in the middle of the lecture podium."
Itsy Bitsy writer 'death' error
A man who co-wrote the song Itsy Bitsy Teenie Weenie Yellow Polka Dot Bikini was wrongly reported as dead after the death of a man who claimed authorship.
The widow of Paul Van Valkenburgh, of Ormond Beach, Florida, said he claimed to have written the song as Paul Vance.
Rose Leroux said she had had no reason to doubt her late husband's claim to fame and was "devastated".
The real Paul Vance, of Coral Springs, Florida, said the phones "don't stop with people calling thinking I'm dead".
Mrs Leroux said her late husband, who was 68 when he died, had always told her he sold the royalties to the song in his late teens.
The widow of Paul Van Valkenburgh, of Ormond Beach, Florida, said he claimed to have written the song as Paul Vance.
Rose Leroux said she had had no reason to doubt her late husband's claim to fame and was "devastated".
The real Paul Vance, of Coral Springs, Florida, said the phones "don't stop with people calling thinking I'm dead".
Mrs Leroux said her late husband, who was 68 when he died, had always told her he sold the royalties to the song in his late teens.
Drink Cooler by Piet Hein
Keep a few of these in your freezer and instead of ice just toss one or two of these super-egg shaped beauties in your glass.
Sweet success for 'oldest brand'
Lyle's Golden Syrup has been named as Britain's oldest brand, with its green and gold packaging having remained almost unchanged since 1885.
The Guinness Book of Records gave the breakfast and teatime sweetener, whose tins bear the image of a lion and a biblical quotation, the prized honour.
The syrup came into being as a by-product of sugar refined by Scottish businessman Abram Lyle in London.
It was first stored in tins in 1885 - a million tins are now produced monthly.
The Guinness Book of Records gave the breakfast and teatime sweetener, whose tins bear the image of a lion and a biblical quotation, the prized honour.
The syrup came into being as a by-product of sugar refined by Scottish businessman Abram Lyle in London.
It was first stored in tins in 1885 - a million tins are now produced monthly.
Bride weds hours after baby born
A bride walked down the aisle at a Bristol church, just hours after giving birth on her wedding day.
Six-months-pregnant Nicky Heys, 35, and her fiance Neal Agar, from Essex, were dining out the night before, when she began having stomach pains.
In the early hours of the next morning, she was taken to hospital and gave birth to 1lb 12oz baby Harry.
A few hours later, she left to attend her wedding at St Luke's church in Brislington and went on the reception.
Six-months-pregnant Nicky Heys, 35, and her fiance Neal Agar, from Essex, were dining out the night before, when she began having stomach pains.
In the early hours of the next morning, she was taken to hospital and gave birth to 1lb 12oz baby Harry.
A few hours later, she left to attend her wedding at St Luke's church in Brislington and went on the reception.
Finger length gives sports clue
Finger length may be a simple way to tell if a woman has the potential to be a tennis star like Serena Williams or a top runner like Paula Radcliffe.
A King's College London team found women whose ring finger is longer than their index finger are more likely to achieve higher levels in sport.
The ratio between the fingers has already been linked to traits in men like cognitive ability and sperm count.
A King's College London team found women whose ring finger is longer than their index finger are more likely to achieve higher levels in sport.
The ratio between the fingers has already been linked to traits in men like cognitive ability and sperm count.
The Pet Loo
The Pet Loo is your backyard in a box. This easy to use, innovative solution is ideal for pet owners and professionals alike.
Whether you live in an apartment or a house, take your dog to the office or simply want to leave those toilet training headaches behind, The Pet Loo is a hygienic, convenient and environmentally friendly way to allow your pet to do its business without relying on you for an opportunity.
Whether you live in an apartment or a house, take your dog to the office or simply want to leave those toilet training headaches behind, The Pet Loo is a hygienic, convenient and environmentally friendly way to allow your pet to do its business without relying on you for an opportunity.
'Jailbird' back home behind bars
An eagle owl which escaped from Liverpool prison is back "inside".
Boris was recaptured after escaping from his nest at HMP Liverpool and getting tangled up in the nearby suburb of Old Swan.
He was rescued from the TV aerial of a house in Gidlow Road South by the RSPCA and fire crews. He is now back with his handler at the prison.
Boris is used to hunt pigeons and rodents at the prison - instead of using traps or poison.
Boris was recaptured after escaping from his nest at HMP Liverpool and getting tangled up in the nearby suburb of Old Swan.
He was rescued from the TV aerial of a house in Gidlow Road South by the RSPCA and fire crews. He is now back with his handler at the prison.
Boris is used to hunt pigeons and rodents at the prison - instead of using traps or poison.
Teenager burglars paint instead of going to jail
A new 'soft justice' row erupted last night as it emerged teenage burglars are being told to paint posters instead of going to jail.
The punishment, handed out by Youth Offending Teams (YOTs), is to draw pictures of the items they would like to steal. The posters are then put on public display so terrified householders know which items to hide from view in case burglars strike.
Alternative 'restorative justice' projects for teenage tearaways include spending two weeks painting a mural of a 'country scene' on the side of a warehouse.
But Norman Brennan, director of the Victims of Crime Trust, said: 'Who comes up with these barmy, crazy ideas?'
The punishment, handed out by Youth Offending Teams (YOTs), is to draw pictures of the items they would like to steal. The posters are then put on public display so terrified householders know which items to hide from view in case burglars strike.
Alternative 'restorative justice' projects for teenage tearaways include spending two weeks painting a mural of a 'country scene' on the side of a warehouse.
But Norman Brennan, director of the Victims of Crime Trust, said: 'Who comes up with these barmy, crazy ideas?'
Man banned from home for 10 years
A father-of-seven has been banned from entering his home town of Lydney for 10 years after a judge imposed an Anti-Social Behaviour Order (Asbo).
Mark Bowkett, 40, of Harrison Way, has 153 convictions, including threatening a number of local people with an axe.
A family friend said his wife Cindy, 37, who is five weeks pregnant, is "devastated".
Bowkett remains in custody for a separate offence.
Mark Bowkett, 40, of Harrison Way, has 153 convictions, including threatening a number of local people with an axe.
A family friend said his wife Cindy, 37, who is five weeks pregnant, is "devastated".
Bowkett remains in custody for a separate offence.
Thursday, September 28, 2006
Blogger is once again really broken
It took me a full hour to publish the final photo today, aside from how long it took to publish the other posts.
Whilst I had the time, and patience, this morning, I know I'll be in a rush tomorrow, and if the problems persist I just won't be able to post until later in the day.
Please don't misunderstand me, I'm not moaning here, I'm just frustrated.
Anyway, just so you know in case nothing appears tomorrow.
Let's see how long this takes to publish ...
Whilst I had the time, and patience, this morning, I know I'll be in a rush tomorrow, and if the problems persist I just won't be able to post until later in the day.
Please don't misunderstand me, I'm not moaning here, I'm just frustrated.
Anyway, just so you know in case nothing appears tomorrow.
Let's see how long this takes to publish ...
Spectator throws cyclist off a bridge
In a cycle race one competitor pushes another, so a spectator takes the law into his own hands.
Colourful Coffins
Colourful Coffins is the new name for Oxford Coffins - the leading provider of distinctive, personalised, and memorable picture coffins.
On a similar topic there's a collection of approximately 80 tombstones in various colours and sizes, some with inscriptions, available on eBay.
Home Makes Unusual Journey Across Tampa Bay
An old house took an unusual journey across Florida's Tampa Bay on Tuesday.
Perched on a barge, the 1910 Queen Anne-style home was moved across the bay while the curious gathered on the nearby Skyway bridge to watch the house pass underneath.
On Monday, movers lifted the 220-ton house from the lot where it was built and onto the barge. They had to wait for proper tides before crossing the bay.
George Corbett and his wife purchased the home because Palmetto City officials said the house had to go to make room for a waterfront revitalization plan.
Corbett spent nearly a year working out the details on how to move the house 25 miles to the north to a spot in Ruskin, Fla.
With video.
Perched on a barge, the 1910 Queen Anne-style home was moved across the bay while the curious gathered on the nearby Skyway bridge to watch the house pass underneath.
On Monday, movers lifted the 220-ton house from the lot where it was built and onto the barge. They had to wait for proper tides before crossing the bay.
George Corbett and his wife purchased the home because Palmetto City officials said the house had to go to make room for a waterfront revitalization plan.
Corbett spent nearly a year working out the details on how to move the house 25 miles to the north to a spot in Ruskin, Fla.
With video.
Security forces end inmates' 10-year rule at Guatemalan jail
Guatemalan security forces stormed a luxury jail which had been run for more than 10 years by inmates who built their own town on prison grounds complete with restaurants, churches and drug laboratories.
Seven prisoners died when 3,000 police and soldiers firing automatic weapons stormed the Pavon prison just after dawn on Monday.
The prison was run by the inmates, with corrupt guards only patrolling the prison's perimeter and running the administration section. An "order committee" of hardened inmates controlled the rest. Guards let prisoners bring in whatever they wanted and inmates set up labs to produce cocaine, crack and liquor. "The people who live here live better than all of us on the outside. They've even got pubs," said a soldier, Tomas Hernandez.
One of those killed in the raid, a convicted murderer, Luis Alfonso Zepeda, had earned around £13,000 a month from extortion, renting out prison grounds to other inmates and drug trafficking, police said. His son Samuel lived illegally inside the prison to help run the crime empire, even though he was never sent there by a court.
Seven prisoners died when 3,000 police and soldiers firing automatic weapons stormed the Pavon prison just after dawn on Monday.
The prison was run by the inmates, with corrupt guards only patrolling the prison's perimeter and running the administration section. An "order committee" of hardened inmates controlled the rest. Guards let prisoners bring in whatever they wanted and inmates set up labs to produce cocaine, crack and liquor. "The people who live here live better than all of us on the outside. They've even got pubs," said a soldier, Tomas Hernandez.
One of those killed in the raid, a convicted murderer, Luis Alfonso Zepeda, had earned around £13,000 a month from extortion, renting out prison grounds to other inmates and drug trafficking, police said. His son Samuel lived illegally inside the prison to help run the crime empire, even though he was never sent there by a court.
Meet the trailer trash dolls
A new doll is set to take the US by storm — farting, beer-swilling Jer Wayne Jnr.
The 12inch, £20 toy is boyfriend to the world’s first trailer trash doll, pregnant Turleen launched last year. Jer Wayne has a mullet, missing teeth and an earring.
Ever the classy gentleman, Jer Wayne has a button on his chest which - if pressed - helps him break wind or offer wise words such as "Fifteen of dem beers and yer still ugly".
He is clearly a natural match for Turleen, though, as her guttural catchphrases include "Pour me a double, I'm drinkin' fer two" and "If the trailer's a-rockin", don't come aknockin".
The 12inch, £20 toy is boyfriend to the world’s first trailer trash doll, pregnant Turleen launched last year. Jer Wayne has a mullet, missing teeth and an earring.
Ever the classy gentleman, Jer Wayne has a button on his chest which - if pressed - helps him break wind or offer wise words such as "Fifteen of dem beers and yer still ugly".
He is clearly a natural match for Turleen, though, as her guttural catchphrases include "Pour me a double, I'm drinkin' fer two" and "If the trailer's a-rockin", don't come aknockin".
Bondi invaded by 'grey nomads' who cut down parking signs for a free holiday
The golden crescent of Bondi Beach unfolds invitingly beneath you. Beyond it is the Pacific Ocean, a glorious sweep of blue. It's a million-dollar view - but who needs to pay a million dollars when you can camp for free? As summer approaches, camper vans are invading the popular beachside suburb and squatting on some of Bondi's best streets. Visitors can only park legally for a couple of hours, but no worries, as they say here. Just chop down the parking sign.
The culprits behind this spate of vandalism are not feckless young tourists, they are pensioners - the "grey nomads" who travel around Australia following the sun. "Quite a number are older people," said Kerryn Sloan, a local councillor. "It's a new phenomenon, and quite surprising.
The elderly anarchists operate in packs, travelling in convoy and texting each other tips on the streets with the best views. On arrival, they saw down signs, leaving parking inspectors impotent. It is usually two weeks before a new sign can be put up. By then the campers are ready to move on.
Towns and cities up and down the coast are afflicted, but Bondi - with its famous beach and numerous amenities - has been particularly badly hit. It is one of Sydney's most densely populated neighbourhoods. One despairing local man said yesterday that he had had seven camper vans parked in his street. Removing parking signs is only one sin. Once the unwelcome visitors have commandeered a street, they make themselves quite at home. They set up little tables and chairs on the pavement. They string up makeshift clothes-lines. They cook themselves meals in the street. They urinate and defecate in backyards and on the grass verges.
The culprits behind this spate of vandalism are not feckless young tourists, they are pensioners - the "grey nomads" who travel around Australia following the sun. "Quite a number are older people," said Kerryn Sloan, a local councillor. "It's a new phenomenon, and quite surprising.
The elderly anarchists operate in packs, travelling in convoy and texting each other tips on the streets with the best views. On arrival, they saw down signs, leaving parking inspectors impotent. It is usually two weeks before a new sign can be put up. By then the campers are ready to move on.
Towns and cities up and down the coast are afflicted, but Bondi - with its famous beach and numerous amenities - has been particularly badly hit. It is one of Sydney's most densely populated neighbourhoods. One despairing local man said yesterday that he had had seven camper vans parked in his street. Removing parking signs is only one sin. Once the unwelcome visitors have commandeered a street, they make themselves quite at home. They set up little tables and chairs on the pavement. They string up makeshift clothes-lines. They cook themselves meals in the street. They urinate and defecate in backyards and on the grass verges.
Triplets and a toddler at seventeen
A 17-year-old Derby girl has become one of the youngest mums in the country to give birth to triplets.
Carlie Roberts said she could not wait to take the three boys home to be with her other son, 14-month- old Harley.
It also means partner Scott Handford, 24, is now a dad of six — with two sons from an earlier relationship.
Carlie said from hospital yesterday: “It might be a struggle, but I’m sure we’ll manage.”
But she admitted: “We had hoped for a daughter. I hadn’t bargained on triplets.”
Carlie Roberts said she could not wait to take the three boys home to be with her other son, 14-month- old Harley.
It also means partner Scott Handford, 24, is now a dad of six — with two sons from an earlier relationship.
Carlie said from hospital yesterday: “It might be a struggle, but I’m sure we’ll manage.”
But she admitted: “We had hoped for a daughter. I hadn’t bargained on triplets.”
Maggie the Sea Lion Paints for Fish
Some artists suffer for their work. Maggie, an 11-year-old sea lion at the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium, gets to eat dead fish for hers. Kesha Phares, a zoo trainer, has been teaching the animal to paint since last year.
It took three months to get the animal to hold a paint brush and touch the bristles to paper.
Phares picks the paint colours - sea lions are colourblind - and puts paint on the brush. The paintings are done one stroke at a time, with Maggie getting a fish after each stroke.
If the animal can be said to have a style, it is this: She tends to put more paint on the right side of the canvas than the left.
It took three months to get the animal to hold a paint brush and touch the bristles to paper.
Phares picks the paint colours - sea lions are colourblind - and puts paint on the brush. The paintings are done one stroke at a time, with Maggie getting a fish after each stroke.
If the animal can be said to have a style, it is this: She tends to put more paint on the right side of the canvas than the left.
Christmas lights in September
Residents of a Cornish town say they are embarrassed about a decision to put up Christmas lights - a full three months before Christmas Day.
But the St Austell and District Chamber of Commerce says it was necessary because it has nowhere to store the decorations while moving offices.
Chairman Paul Scott said: "I'm surprised by the fuss. The lights won't go on until the end of November."
But one local resident said it made the town a "laughing stock".
But the St Austell and District Chamber of Commerce says it was necessary because it has nowhere to store the decorations while moving offices.
Chairman Paul Scott said: "I'm surprised by the fuss. The lights won't go on until the end of November."
But one local resident said it made the town a "laughing stock".
'Tarantulas' flee charity store
Two giant spiders, believed to be pet tarantulas, are on the loose after escaping from a glass tank which was given to a Worcestershire charity shop.
The palm-sized spiders, which are not thought to be venomous but may inflict a painful bite, went missing from the British Heart Foundation in Redditch.
The creatures and their tank were among nearly 100 bags which were given to the shop in Market Place on Friday.
The shop manager said people need to be aware not to put spiders in bags.
The palm-sized spiders, which are not thought to be venomous but may inflict a painful bite, went missing from the British Heart Foundation in Redditch.
The creatures and their tank were among nearly 100 bags which were given to the shop in Market Place on Friday.
The shop manager said people need to be aware not to put spiders in bags.
Government hopes good manners can stop flu
The government will try to change the hygiene habits of the nation later this year in hopes of staving off a flu pandemic by urging people to cover their nose and mouth when they cough or sneeze.
Vaccines would probably not be available in time for the first wave of a flu pandemic and there are real doubts that drugs the government has stockpiled will work, a London conference heard yesterday. But using a handkerchief might save lives, said Lindsey Davies, national director of pandemic influenza preparedness.
When a person with the flu sneezes, large droplets containing the virus can travel up to a metre through the air, she said. Hands also become contaminated. Her office wants to campaign on the old slogan of "coughs and sneezes spread diseases" to inculcate cleaner habits.
"For the autumn we are hoping to do something quite positive about this," said Professor Davies. "We will be encouraging people not to cough or sneeze without something over their face.
Vaccines would probably not be available in time for the first wave of a flu pandemic and there are real doubts that drugs the government has stockpiled will work, a London conference heard yesterday. But using a handkerchief might save lives, said Lindsey Davies, national director of pandemic influenza preparedness.
When a person with the flu sneezes, large droplets containing the virus can travel up to a metre through the air, she said. Hands also become contaminated. Her office wants to campaign on the old slogan of "coughs and sneezes spread diseases" to inculcate cleaner habits.
"For the autumn we are hoping to do something quite positive about this," said Professor Davies. "We will be encouraging people not to cough or sneeze without something over their face.
Mother fined for taking 10 children to safety in car
A mother who took 10 children into her car to rescue them from a gang of bottle-wielding youths was fined for careless driving.
Elizabeth Watt, 33, was picking up her daughters from an under-18 disco when the gang began making menacing comments and kicking her Honda Civic.
When someone produced a baseball bat, she ordered her two daughters and their friends into the car for their own safety and drove off. She was stopped by a police officer in Irvine, Ayrshire, after driving only 600 yards. Pc Stuart McInnes told Kilmarnock sheriff court: "I explained to the driver why I'd stopped her and she said, 'I've got another three in the boot' ."
Sheriff Tom McCartney said he was satisfied she was trying to "save herself and the young persons from a genuine risk". He fined Watt, a care assistant from Kilwinning, Ayrshire, £100 and imposed three penalty points after convicting her of careless driving.
Elizabeth Watt, 33, was picking up her daughters from an under-18 disco when the gang began making menacing comments and kicking her Honda Civic.
When someone produced a baseball bat, she ordered her two daughters and their friends into the car for their own safety and drove off. She was stopped by a police officer in Irvine, Ayrshire, after driving only 600 yards. Pc Stuart McInnes told Kilmarnock sheriff court: "I explained to the driver why I'd stopped her and she said, 'I've got another three in the boot' ."
Sheriff Tom McCartney said he was satisfied she was trying to "save herself and the young persons from a genuine risk". He fined Watt, a care assistant from Kilwinning, Ayrshire, £100 and imposed three penalty points after convicting her of careless driving.
Dog starts car after eating chip
A breakdown patrol man who came to the rescue of a woman motorist has managed to get her car started using her dog.
Juliette Piesley, 39, had changed the battery in her electronic key fob but was then unable to start her car.
When AA patrolman Kevin Gorman arrived at the scene in Addlestone, Surrey, he found its immobiliser chip was missing.
Ms Piesley said her dog George had eaten something, and realising it was the chip, he put the dog in the front seat and started the car with the key.
Mr Gorman said: "I was glad to get the car started for the member.
"They will now have to take George [the dog] with them in the car until things take their natural course."
"It is the first time that I have had to get a dog to help me to start a car."
And without jump leads.
Juliette Piesley, 39, had changed the battery in her electronic key fob but was then unable to start her car.
When AA patrolman Kevin Gorman arrived at the scene in Addlestone, Surrey, he found its immobiliser chip was missing.
Ms Piesley said her dog George had eaten something, and realising it was the chip, he put the dog in the front seat and started the car with the key.
Mr Gorman said: "I was glad to get the car started for the member.
"They will now have to take George [the dog] with them in the car until things take their natural course."
"It is the first time that I have had to get a dog to help me to start a car."
And without jump leads.
Wednesday, September 27, 2006
Car Chase
Suspected of drinking of driving, this guy is being pursued in his truck by the police, when he runs out of petrol.
So he does the obvious thing. Get out and push.
So he does the obvious thing. Get out and push.
Microwavable Warm Whiskers Eye Pillows
The Warm Whiskers freezable or heatable eye pillows help reduce eye puffiness and strain, headaches, facial tension and sinus pressure. Each animal is filled with relaxing lavender and chamomile.
Send this cuddly friend to bed with your little one or enjoy the therapeutic and aromatic warmth yourself.
Available as a Polar Bear, Brown Bear, Cat, Dog and a Bunny.
But not only that. You can complement it with a Warm Whiskers Herbal Neck Wrap.
Warm Whiskers heatable animals are filled with buckwheat and scented with lavender. Heat in a microwave and soothing, aromatic warmth lasts for up to two hours. Can also be chilled.
Send this cuddly friend to bed with your little one or enjoy the therapeutic and aromatic warmth yourself.
Available as a Polar Bear, Brown Bear, Cat, Dog and a Bunny.
But not only that. You can complement it with a Warm Whiskers Herbal Neck Wrap.
Warm Whiskers heatable animals are filled with buckwheat and scented with lavender. Heat in a microwave and soothing, aromatic warmth lasts for up to two hours. Can also be chilled.
A resource for people with Restless Legs Syndrome
Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) affects up to 10% of American adults. They may have difficulty lying down and sleeping, or sitting down and relaxing, because their legs just won't let them. Air travel and long car trips are a trial. Even enjoying a television show may be more than they can manage.
Restless Legs Syndrome can have a significant physical and emotional impact on sufferers. Symptoms may interfere with their sleep, and as a result, they may feel sleepy during the day, too tired to participate in their daily activities.
Restless Legs Syndrome is a real medical condition like diabetes, depression, or high blood pressure. Many people are unaware that there is a name for their condition: It's called Restless Legs Syndrome.
Restless Legs Syndrome can have a significant physical and emotional impact on sufferers. Symptoms may interfere with their sleep, and as a result, they may feel sleepy during the day, too tired to participate in their daily activities.
Restless Legs Syndrome is a real medical condition like diabetes, depression, or high blood pressure. Many people are unaware that there is a name for their condition: It's called Restless Legs Syndrome.
Mono-crystalline Solar Fan Bamboo Hat
Specifications:
1.Material: Plaited Bamboo.
2.Solar panel: Mono-crystalline Solar Panel.
They also have a range of solar-powered bamboo baseball caps.
Obituary for Thomas L. Cook
He spent life picking himself up.
Thomas L. Cook, who died at 54 when he was fatally hit by a car Sept. 11, spent much of his life recovering from the misadvent
Thomas L. Cook, who died at 54 when he was fatally hit by a car Sept. 11, spent much of his life recovering from the misadvent