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Friday, July 31, 2009
Arnold Schoenberg, op. 11 - part III
For this project I used some programs to help me save time in finding the right cats. Anyway, first I downloaded every video of a cat playing piano I could find on YouTube. I ended up with about 170 videos. Then I extracted the audio from each, pasted these files end to end, and then pasted this huge file onto the end of an audio file of Glenn Gould playing op11. I loaded this file into Comparisonics. Comparisonics, a strange free program I found while surfing one night, allows users to highlight a section of audio, and responds by finding "similar" sounding areas in rest of the audio file. Using Comparisioncs I went through every "note" (sometimes I also did clusters of notes) in the Gould, then selected my favorite "similar" section Comparisonics suggested and wrote it in the score. After going though the 1000's of "notes", the completed scores were turned into a video by some perl scripts I wrote.
You can see parts one and two and read about all the science behind this here.
You can see parts one and two and read about all the science behind this here.
Rare twin wallabies spotted
A wild wallaby sighted in eastern Australia has a rare predicament for a marsupial mother — she is carrying twins in her pouch.
The whiptail wallaby and her identical pair of offspring have become regular visitors to a small farm near Ellesmere in Queensland state, Australia.
Scientists say it is very unusual for a wallaby, a smaller cousin of a kangaroo, to have twins, and rarer still for a growing pair to survive in the cramped confines of the mother's pouch for so long. They appear to be several months old.
"I was very surprised," farm owner Peter Balsillie said of when he first saw the twins squeezed into the mother's pouch three weeks ago. "Most afternoons you see both heads. Sometimes you see a head and the other's back leg sticking out."
Kangaroo expert Gordon Grigg, emeritus professor of zoology at Queensland University, said that judging from photos he had seen, the twins, which have already grown a wallaby's characteristic fur, would soon become independent of their mother.
"It's very unusual, especially that she's looked after them through to that size," Grigg said.
The whiptail wallaby and her identical pair of offspring have become regular visitors to a small farm near Ellesmere in Queensland state, Australia.
Scientists say it is very unusual for a wallaby, a smaller cousin of a kangaroo, to have twins, and rarer still for a growing pair to survive in the cramped confines of the mother's pouch for so long. They appear to be several months old.
"I was very surprised," farm owner Peter Balsillie said of when he first saw the twins squeezed into the mother's pouch three weeks ago. "Most afternoons you see both heads. Sometimes you see a head and the other's back leg sticking out."
Kangaroo expert Gordon Grigg, emeritus professor of zoology at Queensland University, said that judging from photos he had seen, the twins, which have already grown a wallaby's characteristic fur, would soon become independent of their mother.
"It's very unusual, especially that she's looked after them through to that size," Grigg said.
Dog found nine years on, 1,200 miles away
A dog that disappeared in Australia nine years ago has been identified 1,243 miles from its old home. Owner Chloe Rushby believed she would never see her long lost pet dog Muffy again.
The terrier cross had wandered off while a friend was supposed to be watching her. Searches for the beloved pet proved fruitless.
Today, however, she is excitedly awaiting a happy reunion with the dog, who was found after an anonymous call to the RSPCA.
Muffy was found in a scruffy and flea-bitten state, sleeping on a tattered piece of cardboard in a squalid Melbourne back yard. The RSPCA officers who rescued her said whoever made the call had probably saved her life.
Animal welfare officers believe the dog was kept in the filthy yard for the past two years, but how she spent the previous seven years remain a mystery.
When she was found - skinny and suffering from a skin disorder - RSPCA officers checked Muffy's microchip, and were astonished to be able to trace her owners. The Rushby family, who live in Brisbane, will be reunited with their former pet next week.
The terrier cross had wandered off while a friend was supposed to be watching her. Searches for the beloved pet proved fruitless.
Today, however, she is excitedly awaiting a happy reunion with the dog, who was found after an anonymous call to the RSPCA.
Muffy was found in a scruffy and flea-bitten state, sleeping on a tattered piece of cardboard in a squalid Melbourne back yard. The RSPCA officers who rescued her said whoever made the call had probably saved her life.
Animal welfare officers believe the dog was kept in the filthy yard for the past two years, but how she spent the previous seven years remain a mystery.
When she was found - skinny and suffering from a skin disorder - RSPCA officers checked Muffy's microchip, and were astonished to be able to trace her owners. The Rushby family, who live in Brisbane, will be reunited with their former pet next week.
Woman saves friend's dog with mouth-to-snout
You may love your own dog enough to perform mouth-to-mouth on it, but would you do it for a friend's dog? One Orange County woman did.
Krisna Torres saved her friend's Chihuahua, Gigi, after the pooch accidently hanged herself on her leash.
Charlene Cisneros found her dog unconscious off the backyard swing set during a birthday party this past weekend.
Torres was at the party and rushed to save the lifeless Chihuahua when others started to panic. She started to give the dog mouth-to-mouth resuscitation.
The family's veterinarian told the family that Torres' quick thinking saved the family's life.
Torres said she didn't even think about it and did what she had to do. But she did mention that Gigi could use some breath mints.
With news video.
Krisna Torres saved her friend's Chihuahua, Gigi, after the pooch accidently hanged herself on her leash.
Charlene Cisneros found her dog unconscious off the backyard swing set during a birthday party this past weekend.
Torres was at the party and rushed to save the lifeless Chihuahua when others started to panic. She started to give the dog mouth-to-mouth resuscitation.
The family's veterinarian told the family that Torres' quick thinking saved the family's life.
Torres said she didn't even think about it and did what she had to do. But she did mention that Gigi could use some breath mints.
With news video.
19-year-old accused of blowing up cat
A 19-year-old man was arrested on Wednesday on suspicion of blowing up a cat with an explosive in south Sacramento, police said. David Hui-Baio Yang and a group of boys are accused of putting the cat under a traffic cone on Tuesday night along 63rd Street and blowing it up with a large firecracker, possibly an M-80.
The group was accused of wrapping the animal in duct tape before the explosion, a police report said. Once the cat was under the traffic cone, someone dropped the lit explosive through a hole at the top of the cone, according to the police report. The cat died from the blast.
Michael Nguyen said he witnessed the attack. "I ran to see - the cat was blown to pieces right here," he said. "And I get so angry, so focused on the cat, they ran and I called police."
Police found Yang on Wednesday evening in the 6200 block of Lemon Hill Drive after receiving a tip about his possible involvement, authorities said. Yang remained in jail on a charge of malicious maiming of an animal. Bail was set at $40,000. He is scheduled to appear in court later today.
Police said they haven't determined a motive for the crime.
Lesley Kirrene, with the Sacramento Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, said violence toward animals can be a warning shot that people might also be in danger. "We worry once someone's committed a crime against an animal, it can escalate and lead to crimes against humans - violent crimes," Kirrene said.
With news video.
The group was accused of wrapping the animal in duct tape before the explosion, a police report said. Once the cat was under the traffic cone, someone dropped the lit explosive through a hole at the top of the cone, according to the police report. The cat died from the blast.
Michael Nguyen said he witnessed the attack. "I ran to see - the cat was blown to pieces right here," he said. "And I get so angry, so focused on the cat, they ran and I called police."
Police found Yang on Wednesday evening in the 6200 block of Lemon Hill Drive after receiving a tip about his possible involvement, authorities said. Yang remained in jail on a charge of malicious maiming of an animal. Bail was set at $40,000. He is scheduled to appear in court later today.
Police said they haven't determined a motive for the crime.
Lesley Kirrene, with the Sacramento Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, said violence toward animals can be a warning shot that people might also be in danger. "We worry once someone's committed a crime against an animal, it can escalate and lead to crimes against humans - violent crimes," Kirrene said.
With news video.
Dissolvable bikini row
A bikini that dissolves in water has outraged women's rights campaigners. The saucy thong swimsuit - sold as the perfect present for dumped boyfriends - looks like a real bikini but disappears completely after just a few seconds in water.
Sellers in Germany bill the Get Naked costume as a chance for men to get their own back after a break-up.
But women's rights campaigner Rosmarie Zapfl stormed: "It is an absolute insult to women that this has been invented."
The dissolvable bikinis are being sold on the German revenge website www.racheshop.de with sizes 34 and 36 in a thong version and 38, 40 and 42 with bikini bottoms.
Sellers in Germany bill the Get Naked costume as a chance for men to get their own back after a break-up.
But women's rights campaigner Rosmarie Zapfl stormed: "It is an absolute insult to women that this has been invented."
The dissolvable bikinis are being sold on the German revenge website www.racheshop.de with sizes 34 and 36 in a thong version and 38, 40 and 42 with bikini bottoms.
Strong perfume hospitalises 34 in Texas
More than 30 people were treated in hospital after a bank worker sparked panic - with a squirt of perfume. Firefighters and ambulances were called to the Bank of America branch in Fort Worth, Texas, fearing a carbon monoxide leak after two staff members reported feeling sick and dizzy.
A total of 12 people were taken to hospital while 22 others made their own way there and a further 110 were treated at the scene as the bank's management broadcast an alert to nearly 2,000 staff warning them to leave the building if they felt ill. But it then emerged that rather than a gas leak the reason for the chaos was down to a simple squirt of perfume, the brand of which has not been revealed.
Lt Kent Worley of Fort Worth Fire Department said: "Two employees reported some dizziness in close association with someone spraying on some perfume." He said that when the two reported being dizzy to a supervisor, "an announcement was made over the building's PA system saying that anyone feeling these symptoms should exit the building to an outside location."
Subsequently, he said, many people left the building, but many others continued working "with no ill effect." "We called a [hazardous materials] unit to the scene but they didn't detect anything on their air monitoring unit," he said.
"That air monitoring unit can detect carbon monoxide and several other chemicals and products that can be in the air. But they found nothing that would have caused people to get sick." Lt Worley suggested the situation escalated because of 'psychosomatic behaviour', or what medical experts often refer to as 'contagious fear'.
Mary Lynn Crow, a clinical psychologist at the University of Texas, said: "Your thinking can actually cause you to feel pain or discomfort. Fear is one of the most contagious emotions there is. When you say to people, 'Hey, there is a contaminant in the building and it is making people sick,' then it easy for them to feel accordingly."
A total of 12 people were taken to hospital while 22 others made their own way there and a further 110 were treated at the scene as the bank's management broadcast an alert to nearly 2,000 staff warning them to leave the building if they felt ill. But it then emerged that rather than a gas leak the reason for the chaos was down to a simple squirt of perfume, the brand of which has not been revealed.
Lt Kent Worley of Fort Worth Fire Department said: "Two employees reported some dizziness in close association with someone spraying on some perfume." He said that when the two reported being dizzy to a supervisor, "an announcement was made over the building's PA system saying that anyone feeling these symptoms should exit the building to an outside location."
Subsequently, he said, many people left the building, but many others continued working "with no ill effect." "We called a [hazardous materials] unit to the scene but they didn't detect anything on their air monitoring unit," he said.
"That air monitoring unit can detect carbon monoxide and several other chemicals and products that can be in the air. But they found nothing that would have caused people to get sick." Lt Worley suggested the situation escalated because of 'psychosomatic behaviour', or what medical experts often refer to as 'contagious fear'.
Mary Lynn Crow, a clinical psychologist at the University of Texas, said: "Your thinking can actually cause you to feel pain or discomfort. Fear is one of the most contagious emotions there is. When you say to people, 'Hey, there is a contaminant in the building and it is making people sick,' then it easy for them to feel accordingly."
Police find train suicide woman home in bed
French police called off their search for a woman who threw herself in front of a speeding train when they found that she had dragged herself home and gone to bed.
The 58-year-old, who suffered from depression, jumped in front of the train Tuesday as it sped through the station at Herrlisheim near Strasbourg at around 150 km per hour, prompting the driver to alert the police.
Discovering only a small blood stain on the train and the platform, police called in helicopters to find the woman who they presumed had been sent flying by the collision, public prosecutor Laurent Guy said on Wednesday.
But the search was called off when the woman's partner, returning from a night shift, found her lying in bed with a broken arm and other injuries and rang the emergency services. The woman, who had attempted suicide in the past, was subsequently hospitalised.
The 58-year-old, who suffered from depression, jumped in front of the train Tuesday as it sped through the station at Herrlisheim near Strasbourg at around 150 km per hour, prompting the driver to alert the police.
Discovering only a small blood stain on the train and the platform, police called in helicopters to find the woman who they presumed had been sent flying by the collision, public prosecutor Laurent Guy said on Wednesday.
But the search was called off when the woman's partner, returning from a night shift, found her lying in bed with a broken arm and other injuries and rang the emergency services. The woman, who had attempted suicide in the past, was subsequently hospitalised.
Strange foreign laws which holidaymakers should be wary about
Singing whilst wearing a swimming costume and carrying an ice cream cone in a back pocket on a Sunday are just two foreign laws of which holidaymakers should be wary, according to a new guide.
Other prohibitions they cite include laws against unmarried women parachuting on a Sunday and flushing the lavatory after 10pm, according to the travellers' compendium.
It comes after a string of cases involving holidaymakers getting arrested abroad. In May an Australian mother was arrested for stealing a beer coaster from a nightclub in Thailand.
Last year two Britons were convicted of indecency after being caught having sex on a beach in Dubai. They were initially given three-month jail terms but these were suspended on appeal.
In April visitors to Malaysia were warned they face up to a year in jail if they behaved too affectionately in public after a local couple were arrested for holding hands and kissing.
Here is the list of examples of which holidaymakers should be aware:
In Milan it is a legal requirement to smile at all times, except during funerals or hospital visits.
In Massachusetts, taxi drivers are prohibited from making love in the front seat of the car during their shifts.
In Denmark, people are legally obliged to honk the horn and check for small children underneath the car.
In Thailand, it is illegal for anyone to leave a building without wearing their pants.
In Michigan, anyone planning on bathing in public must have their swim suit inspected by a police officer.
In Florida, any unmarried woman who parachutes on a Sunday could be jailed. Singing while wearing a swimming costume is also prohibited.
In Portugal it is unlawful to urinate in the sea.
In Hong Kong the wife of a husband who commits adultery is legally entitled to kill the mistress in any manner desired, and the husband with just her bare hands.
In Switzerland flushing the lavatory after 10pm is illegal.
In Canada if you are arrested and then released from prison, it is a legal requirement that the felon is given a handgun with bullets and a horse, so they can ride safely out of the town.
Other prohibitions they cite include laws against unmarried women parachuting on a Sunday and flushing the lavatory after 10pm, according to the travellers' compendium.
It comes after a string of cases involving holidaymakers getting arrested abroad. In May an Australian mother was arrested for stealing a beer coaster from a nightclub in Thailand.
Last year two Britons were convicted of indecency after being caught having sex on a beach in Dubai. They were initially given three-month jail terms but these were suspended on appeal.
In April visitors to Malaysia were warned they face up to a year in jail if they behaved too affectionately in public after a local couple were arrested for holding hands and kissing.
Here is the list of examples of which holidaymakers should be aware:
In Milan it is a legal requirement to smile at all times, except during funerals or hospital visits.
In Massachusetts, taxi drivers are prohibited from making love in the front seat of the car during their shifts.
In Denmark, people are legally obliged to honk the horn and check for small children underneath the car.
In Thailand, it is illegal for anyone to leave a building without wearing their pants.
In Michigan, anyone planning on bathing in public must have their swim suit inspected by a police officer.
In Florida, any unmarried woman who parachutes on a Sunday could be jailed. Singing while wearing a swimming costume is also prohibited.
In Portugal it is unlawful to urinate in the sea.
In Hong Kong the wife of a husband who commits adultery is legally entitled to kill the mistress in any manner desired, and the husband with just her bare hands.
In Switzerland flushing the lavatory after 10pm is illegal.
In Canada if you are arrested and then released from prison, it is a legal requirement that the felon is given a handgun with bullets and a horse, so they can ride safely out of the town.
Lucky dog's got more balls than most
A stricken dog was left feeling below par – after eating nine golf balls. And incredibly, when vets performed an operation to remove them, they also discovered the family pet had been shot in the past.
Bertie, a pointer bloodhound cross-breed, was taken to the vets by his owner Ben Jewell, 12, after he saw him swallow a golf ball while playing at his home in Great Totham.
Photo from here.
Following an x-ray at Clarendon House veterinary surgery, in Heybridge, vets were astonished to find nine golf balls in Bertie’s stomach.
A tenth item, spotted floating in the fat in his belly, was found to be a bullet – believed to be from a rifle.
Bertie had to undergo a two-hour operation on his stomach to remove the items, at which point surgeons discovered the bullet. The family was oblivious to the shooting.
Vet Emily Nightingale said: “We were absolutely flabbergasted when we saw the x-ray. His stomach could have easily ruptured from the pressure of the golf balls, which could have been fatal, and the fact the bullet miraculously missed his vital organs proves just how lucky this brave little chappie has been.”
Bertie, a pointer bloodhound cross-breed, was taken to the vets by his owner Ben Jewell, 12, after he saw him swallow a golf ball while playing at his home in Great Totham.
Photo from here.
Following an x-ray at Clarendon House veterinary surgery, in Heybridge, vets were astonished to find nine golf balls in Bertie’s stomach.
A tenth item, spotted floating in the fat in his belly, was found to be a bullet – believed to be from a rifle.
Bertie had to undergo a two-hour operation on his stomach to remove the items, at which point surgeons discovered the bullet. The family was oblivious to the shooting.
Vet Emily Nightingale said: “We were absolutely flabbergasted when we saw the x-ray. His stomach could have easily ruptured from the pressure of the golf balls, which could have been fatal, and the fact the bullet miraculously missed his vital organs proves just how lucky this brave little chappie has been.”
Bathroom break is now a 'Code Three'
No longer known as a number one or number two, when phone operators at Scotland Yard take a toilet break they will have to log it as a "Code Three" so police can monitor time wasters.
Britain's Metropolitan police said the new rules would stop staff at the police head quarter's control room from taking unnecessary breaks. The operators will have to log toilet visits as a "code three" on a bath-specific database.
Staff are fuming about being so heavily scrutinised. Employee Paul Drew wrote in a staff magazine: "Everyone I have spoken to about this finds it deeply offensive and humiliating.
"It would be interesting to know what the public or the Met can possibly gain from making notes of such intimate details."
Superintendent Russ Hanson-Coles, said: "Our primary role at central communications command is to be available for the public to contact and it is vital that we make the best use of our resources.
"Staff in this environment have regular breaks that compare very favourably with outside industry so the need for extra personal breaks should be minimal."
Britain's Metropolitan police said the new rules would stop staff at the police head quarter's control room from taking unnecessary breaks. The operators will have to log toilet visits as a "code three" on a bath-specific database.
Staff are fuming about being so heavily scrutinised. Employee Paul Drew wrote in a staff magazine: "Everyone I have spoken to about this finds it deeply offensive and humiliating.
"It would be interesting to know what the public or the Met can possibly gain from making notes of such intimate details."
Superintendent Russ Hanson-Coles, said: "Our primary role at central communications command is to be available for the public to contact and it is vital that we make the best use of our resources.
"Staff in this environment have regular breaks that compare very favourably with outside industry so the need for extra personal breaks should be minimal."
Abandoned blind dog and his canine guide find new home - Update
The heart-rending tale of blind collie Clyde and his guide dog Bonnie being abandoned on a Waveney street has prompted an “overwhelming” response from the public, who have flooded the rescue centre with offers for the loveable pair.
More than 500 dog-lovers from all over the world have contacted the dog rescue centre since staff appealed for someone to take in the border collies found in Blundeston, near Lowestoft. And yesterday the appeal paid off when the collies were taken from the centre in Hales Green, near Loddon, to start life with an un-named owner at a home in South Norfolk
Cherie Cootes, from Meadow Green Dog Rescue Centre, said she had been staggered by the level of interest in the dogs and had not had time to respond to most of the enquiries.
“It's been bizarre to say the least,” she said. “We've had calls from America, Australia, a Brazilian TV station who want to come down and do a bit of filming, and a German television station. I got about 200 emails and in excess of 300 phone calls.”
She said the centre had been inundated with offers after the story was reported last week which was then picked up by media outlets across the world, adding: “We've got people from Fife to Devon, five calls from Northern and Southern Ireland and a Dutch lady in Spain who wanted to come across. I've got an Australian couple visiting Norfolk in a month's time, who are very interested in returning home with the dogs and asking what can we do to sort out pet passports to take them back.”
Miss Cootes added: “We want to say thank you. It's lovely how good people have been, but it's overwhelming on a scale you can't believe.”
More than 500 dog-lovers from all over the world have contacted the dog rescue centre since staff appealed for someone to take in the border collies found in Blundeston, near Lowestoft. And yesterday the appeal paid off when the collies were taken from the centre in Hales Green, near Loddon, to start life with an un-named owner at a home in South Norfolk
Cherie Cootes, from Meadow Green Dog Rescue Centre, said she had been staggered by the level of interest in the dogs and had not had time to respond to most of the enquiries.
“It's been bizarre to say the least,” she said. “We've had calls from America, Australia, a Brazilian TV station who want to come down and do a bit of filming, and a German television station. I got about 200 emails and in excess of 300 phone calls.”
She said the centre had been inundated with offers after the story was reported last week which was then picked up by media outlets across the world, adding: “We've got people from Fife to Devon, five calls from Northern and Southern Ireland and a Dutch lady in Spain who wanted to come across. I've got an Australian couple visiting Norfolk in a month's time, who are very interested in returning home with the dogs and asking what can we do to sort out pet passports to take them back.”
Miss Cootes added: “We want to say thank you. It's lovely how good people have been, but it's overwhelming on a scale you can't believe.”
Mum who's had all 13 kids taken into care vows to carry on until she can keep a child
A mother who has had 13 children is pregnant with her 14th - even though all her kids have been taken into care.
Brazen baby machine Theresa Winters, 36, has vowed to carry on having children until social workers let her and jobless partner Toney Housden, 36, keep one.
Defiant Theresa, who lives on benefits in Luton, Beds, declared: "We're not giving up. For every child they take away from me, I'm going to have another one."
All the children were taken into care by social workers who had grave concerns about neglect and "lack of parenting ability" demonstrated by Theresa and her jobless partner Toney Housden.
But the couple, who admit they had problems and could be "aggressive" in the past, insist they are now capable of raising a youngster.
And Theresa, 36, said: "We just want to be a family. I won't stop until they let me keep one." The couple's actions have been branded "scandalous" and "outrageous" by critics.
With two news videos.
Brazen baby machine Theresa Winters, 36, has vowed to carry on having children until social workers let her and jobless partner Toney Housden, 36, keep one.
Defiant Theresa, who lives on benefits in Luton, Beds, declared: "We're not giving up. For every child they take away from me, I'm going to have another one."
All the children were taken into care by social workers who had grave concerns about neglect and "lack of parenting ability" demonstrated by Theresa and her jobless partner Toney Housden.
But the couple, who admit they had problems and could be "aggressive" in the past, insist they are now capable of raising a youngster.
And Theresa, 36, said: "We just want to be a family. I won't stop until they let me keep one." The couple's actions have been branded "scandalous" and "outrageous" by critics.
With two news videos.
Former art teacher sketches her own mugger
A 71-year-old retired art teacher, Jill Smith, used her sketching skills to help catch a thief who stole her handbag.
Mrs Smith was quick to identify drug addict Lloyd Talbot grabbed her handbag in a DIY store car park.
The grandmother was asked by police to describe the thief - but she did better than that by penning a remarkable likeness from memory.
Talbot, a convicted criminal, was identified by police officers who saw the sketch, and was handed a suspended jail sentence at Gateshead Magistrates' Court on Monday.
Mrs Smith, who used to be paid to sketch people at the MetroCentre shopping mall, and who taught art for 18 years to prisoners, perfectly captured Talbot's nose which follows the angle of his forehead, his receding hairline and high cheekbones. It was such a good likeness that within two days fellow officers recognised him from the drawing.
Mrs Smith, who lives in Derwentside, County Durham, said: "He picked on the wrong person. It was hard luck on him really."
Mrs Smith was quick to identify drug addict Lloyd Talbot grabbed her handbag in a DIY store car park.
The grandmother was asked by police to describe the thief - but she did better than that by penning a remarkable likeness from memory.
Talbot, a convicted criminal, was identified by police officers who saw the sketch, and was handed a suspended jail sentence at Gateshead Magistrates' Court on Monday.
Mrs Smith, who used to be paid to sketch people at the MetroCentre shopping mall, and who taught art for 18 years to prisoners, perfectly captured Talbot's nose which follows the angle of his forehead, his receding hairline and high cheekbones. It was such a good likeness that within two days fellow officers recognised him from the drawing.
Mrs Smith, who lives in Derwentside, County Durham, said: "He picked on the wrong person. It was hard luck on him really."
Cat's ordeal trapped in stairs
Sonic the cat forgot she wasn’t a kitten anymore when she got stuck in the staircase of her South Ashford home.
As a kitten, Sonic used to nip in and out of the hole, but now she is one-year-old she has grown and - curious cat - found she could not get out of the hole. Firefighters were called and they described it as a "difficult rescue" due to the cat’s position.
Crews were called to the house in Bornefields just after 1.15pm and used hand tools to remove the bottom stair to help Sonic escape. Sonic already had stitches as she had been spayed and was due at the vet that day for her check-up.
Firefighter Fred Ambler did all the hard work while firefighter Kerry Mitchell stroked Sonic to keep her calm. She was released unharmed 40 minutes later.
As a kitten, Sonic used to nip in and out of the hole, but now she is one-year-old she has grown and - curious cat - found she could not get out of the hole. Firefighters were called and they described it as a "difficult rescue" due to the cat’s position.
Crews were called to the house in Bornefields just after 1.15pm and used hand tools to remove the bottom stair to help Sonic escape. Sonic already had stitches as she had been spayed and was due at the vet that day for her check-up.
Firefighter Fred Ambler did all the hard work while firefighter Kerry Mitchell stroked Sonic to keep her calm. She was released unharmed 40 minutes later.
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Rescue party saves 1500 gnomes
About 1500 garden gnomes have been saved from the scrapheap after an 800km rescue mission. The impressive collection of small cement people was left orphaned after the death of an elderly Cootamundra woman, with the new owners of her property not enamoured of the gnomes.
But a solicitor acting for the deceased estate in southern New South Wales contacted the Australian Gnome Convention seeking advice on how to dispose of the garden ornaments. The convention, established by the Lower Blue Mountains Rotary Club, is held annually in Glenbrook, west of Sydney, and has become the spiritual home for Australia's gnomes.
Convention organiser and "Gnome Master'' David Cook said he did not hesitate in organising the rescue party when contacted about the homeless little folk. "We didn't want to see them put in a skip and taken to the tip and all smashed up,'' Mr Cook said.
Ranging from two-centimetre fridge magnets to 1.5m-high mega-gnomes, the garden fixtures have suffered a degree of wear and tear. "They had been there for a number of years,'' Mr Cook said. "They were all faded. Their red hats were no longer red and all that sort of stuff.''
The gnomes' previous owner lived alone and was known for having a small number of the statues in her front yard, but few locals knew the full extent of her backyard collection. "She had no more than half a dozen gnomes out the front, but no one suspected she had a whole bevy out the back,'' said Bill Price, a Cootamundra Rotarian.
The four-member rescue team joined with Cootamundra locals on Saturday, working for almost four hours to load "every square inch'' of two vehicles and a trailer. The gnomes will be fostered out to various locations across the Blue Mountains but will be reunited next Australia Day for the sixth annual Australian Gnome Convention.
There's a huge photo gallery here.
But a solicitor acting for the deceased estate in southern New South Wales contacted the Australian Gnome Convention seeking advice on how to dispose of the garden ornaments. The convention, established by the Lower Blue Mountains Rotary Club, is held annually in Glenbrook, west of Sydney, and has become the spiritual home for Australia's gnomes.
Convention organiser and "Gnome Master'' David Cook said he did not hesitate in organising the rescue party when contacted about the homeless little folk. "We didn't want to see them put in a skip and taken to the tip and all smashed up,'' Mr Cook said.
Ranging from two-centimetre fridge magnets to 1.5m-high mega-gnomes, the garden fixtures have suffered a degree of wear and tear. "They had been there for a number of years,'' Mr Cook said. "They were all faded. Their red hats were no longer red and all that sort of stuff.''
The gnomes' previous owner lived alone and was known for having a small number of the statues in her front yard, but few locals knew the full extent of her backyard collection. "She had no more than half a dozen gnomes out the front, but no one suspected she had a whole bevy out the back,'' said Bill Price, a Cootamundra Rotarian.
The four-member rescue team joined with Cootamundra locals on Saturday, working for almost four hours to load "every square inch'' of two vehicles and a trailer. The gnomes will be fostered out to various locations across the Blue Mountains but will be reunited next Australia Day for the sixth annual Australian Gnome Convention.
There's a huge photo gallery here.
7-year-old steals car to avoid church
Police in Utah say a 7-year-old boy led officers on a car chase in an effort to avoid going to church.
Dispatchers received reports of a child driving recklessly on Sunday morning. Weber County Sheriff's Capt. Klint Anderson says one witness said the boy drove through a stop sign.
Wait until you see how small he is.
Anderson says two deputies caught up with the boy and tried unsuccessfully to stop the Dodge Intrepid in an area about 45 miles north of Salt Lake City. The car reached 40 mph before the boy stopped in a driveway and ran inside a home.
Anderson says when the boy's father later confronted him, the boy said he didn't want to go to church. The boy is too young to prosecute and no citations were issued, although police did urge the father to make his car keys more inaccessible to children.
Dispatchers received reports of a child driving recklessly on Sunday morning. Weber County Sheriff's Capt. Klint Anderson says one witness said the boy drove through a stop sign.
Wait until you see how small he is.
Anderson says two deputies caught up with the boy and tried unsuccessfully to stop the Dodge Intrepid in an area about 45 miles north of Salt Lake City. The car reached 40 mph before the boy stopped in a driveway and ran inside a home.
Anderson says when the boy's father later confronted him, the boy said he didn't want to go to church. The boy is too young to prosecute and no citations were issued, although police did urge the father to make his car keys more inaccessible to children.
Best man allegedly raped by stripper at buck’s night
The Melbourne trial of a stripper accused of violating the best man at a buck’s night with a strap-on pink dildo will decide the crucial issue of deliberate penetration against the unusual suggestion of possible ‘‘accidental rape’’. A County Court jury was yesterday told to approach their task free of sympathy, emotion or bias and to put views of strippers and buck’s nights ‘‘out of your mind’’.
Prosecutor Kieran Gilligan told the jury they had to be satisfied there was penetration, if even slight, that it was deliberate, without consent and that Linda Maree Naggs, 40, knew the man was not consenting. But Naggs’ barrister, Paul Higham, asked the jury to have ‘‘in the back of your mind’’ issues of male sexuality and pride, fear, ego and peer group pressure. He said if there was penetration it was accidental and he asked what led the man to ‘‘place himself in proximity to the dildo’’, which he described as ‘‘arguably statuesque’’.
Naggs, who has pleaded not guilty, is alleged to have thrust the dildo into the man’s anus during a naked XXX-rated show in a house in Mornington on September 24, 2007. Mr Gilligan told the jury that the man had replaced the groom and another volunteer who were reluctant to continue their involvement with Naggs. He said after she did a lap dance, rubbed her breasts in his face and used the dildo on herself, he asked her: ‘‘Be gentle. Don’t do it too hard.’’ ‘‘No worries,’’ Mr Gilligan said Naggs replied.
When the man, who was on all fours and naked from the knees up, asked her not to go near his anus, she allegedly said: ‘‘Not a problem. Relax. It’s only fun. I won’t go there.’’ But Mr Gilligan said that soon after Naggs applied cream or lubricant to his buttocks, he felt a sharp pain, a thrust and the dildo ‘‘go right into his anal passage’’.
He said the man was hurt and shocked and after Naggs allegedly told him not to worry because ‘‘only you and I know’’, he said: ‘‘What the f--- did you do that for, you stupid bitch.’’ Mr Gilligan said the man complained to police later that day while a medical examination showed a small abrasion below his anal verge ‘‘most likely caused by blunt trauma’’.
Mr Higham submitted that if there was penetration it was accidental so ‘‘this is a case, if you like, of accidental rape’’. He described the facts as unique, involving a working mother and professional dancer of 13 years. The trial continues before Judge Tim Wood.
Prosecutor Kieran Gilligan told the jury they had to be satisfied there was penetration, if even slight, that it was deliberate, without consent and that Linda Maree Naggs, 40, knew the man was not consenting. But Naggs’ barrister, Paul Higham, asked the jury to have ‘‘in the back of your mind’’ issues of male sexuality and pride, fear, ego and peer group pressure. He said if there was penetration it was accidental and he asked what led the man to ‘‘place himself in proximity to the dildo’’, which he described as ‘‘arguably statuesque’’.
Naggs, who has pleaded not guilty, is alleged to have thrust the dildo into the man’s anus during a naked XXX-rated show in a house in Mornington on September 24, 2007. Mr Gilligan told the jury that the man had replaced the groom and another volunteer who were reluctant to continue their involvement with Naggs. He said after she did a lap dance, rubbed her breasts in his face and used the dildo on herself, he asked her: ‘‘Be gentle. Don’t do it too hard.’’ ‘‘No worries,’’ Mr Gilligan said Naggs replied.
When the man, who was on all fours and naked from the knees up, asked her not to go near his anus, she allegedly said: ‘‘Not a problem. Relax. It’s only fun. I won’t go there.’’ But Mr Gilligan said that soon after Naggs applied cream or lubricant to his buttocks, he felt a sharp pain, a thrust and the dildo ‘‘go right into his anal passage’’.
He said the man was hurt and shocked and after Naggs allegedly told him not to worry because ‘‘only you and I know’’, he said: ‘‘What the f--- did you do that for, you stupid bitch.’’ Mr Gilligan said the man complained to police later that day while a medical examination showed a small abrasion below his anal verge ‘‘most likely caused by blunt trauma’’.
Mr Higham submitted that if there was penetration it was accidental so ‘‘this is a case, if you like, of accidental rape’’. He described the facts as unique, involving a working mother and professional dancer of 13 years. The trial continues before Judge Tim Wood.
Cannabis plants found growing 30 feet up holly tree
Police make marijuana busts every day. But a drug seizure in Westport has even the police scratching their heads. Several marijuana plants were discovered growing in a holly tree, about 30 feet in the air.
“Everyone felt that the bags concealed some sort of crime or illegal material however, no one expected to see plants growing inside the bags intertwined within the trees leaves. It was a first for the officers involved in the case,” said Westport Police Detective Jeff Majewski in a police department statement.
Police responded to the Holly Trail area in Westport Harbor July 15 after a caller told police he observed a least two burlap sacks in the tree.
Once officers arrived they used binoculars to try and determine what was in the bags. That was unsuccessful, but they said a thermal imager showed heat coming from the bags.
Investigators then called in a hydraulic-lift bucket truck from the Westport Highway Department to assist. It was then the officers discovered the three burlap bags contained contained several marijuana plants at different stages of growth. The largest plant, they said, was about five-feet tall.
“Everyone felt that the bags concealed some sort of crime or illegal material however, no one expected to see plants growing inside the bags intertwined within the trees leaves. It was a first for the officers involved in the case,” said Westport Police Detective Jeff Majewski in a police department statement.
Police responded to the Holly Trail area in Westport Harbor July 15 after a caller told police he observed a least two burlap sacks in the tree.
Once officers arrived they used binoculars to try and determine what was in the bags. That was unsuccessful, but they said a thermal imager showed heat coming from the bags.
Investigators then called in a hydraulic-lift bucket truck from the Westport Highway Department to assist. It was then the officers discovered the three burlap bags contained contained several marijuana plants at different stages of growth. The largest plant, they said, was about five-feet tall.
Man inhaled 28 cans of whipped cream at Walmart
A man was arrested after inhaling 28 cans of whipped cream at Destin Walmart.
The 33-year-old man was observed by a loss prevention officer picking up, opening and sniffing the seven-ounce cans of whip cream, according to the arrest report.
Each can contained nitrous oxide, or laughing gas, and when inhaled will "induce a condition of intoxication."
The man was arrested for inhalation of harmful substance.
The 33-year-old man was observed by a loss prevention officer picking up, opening and sniffing the seven-ounce cans of whip cream, according to the arrest report.
Each can contained nitrous oxide, or laughing gas, and when inhaled will "induce a condition of intoxication."
The man was arrested for inhalation of harmful substance.
Drowning diver saved by beluga whale
A beluga whale in a Chinese aquarium has rescued a drowning diver by pushing her out of the water. A spokesman for Harbin Polar Land in the country's north-east Heilongjiang province said the diver had been taking part in a competition at the aquarium when she began suffering sudden cramps in her legs.
Entrants were required to dive into the 6-metre-deep cool pool without any breathing equipment. The person who dives the deepest and stays down for the longest time wins the competition.
Yang Yun, an applicant from a local Chinese Medicine College, dived to a depth of 4 metres on her first trial. "Maybe I was too nervous, and my legs had sudden cramps," she explained. "I never dive into the water so deep and so cold. I was so nervous then.
"When I was choking with water and plummeting to the bottom, a sudden force pushed me out of the water," said Yang, who swam to the bank and was rescued by other competitors.
An activity organiser said the beluga, Mila, is very familiar with humans and she spotted the problem first. "We didn't notice the problem until we saw Mila holding the diver's leg with her mouth and pushing her out of the water," said the organiser.
Yang Yun thanked the audience and Mila by diving into the tank again after making a full recovery.
Entrants were required to dive into the 6-metre-deep cool pool without any breathing equipment. The person who dives the deepest and stays down for the longest time wins the competition.
Yang Yun, an applicant from a local Chinese Medicine College, dived to a depth of 4 metres on her first trial. "Maybe I was too nervous, and my legs had sudden cramps," she explained. "I never dive into the water so deep and so cold. I was so nervous then.
"When I was choking with water and plummeting to the bottom, a sudden force pushed me out of the water," said Yang, who swam to the bank and was rescued by other competitors.
An activity organiser said the beluga, Mila, is very familiar with humans and she spotted the problem first. "We didn't notice the problem until we saw Mila holding the diver's leg with her mouth and pushing her out of the water," said the organiser.
Yang Yun thanked the audience and Mila by diving into the tank again after making a full recovery.
Rescue dolphin release tragedy
Along with the lure of the open sea and home, come the dangers.
Dunham, the Atlantic bottlenose dolphin that was released yesterday morning after eight months in rehab recovering from pneumonia, got only a taste of the freedom. Within a couple hours of being freed off the coast of Dunedin, the dolphin was attacked by sharks and died.
Officials with the Clearwater Marine Aquarium were quiet about specifics, but they were troubled by the death of the mammal they nursed back from near-death in December.
"This is a stab to the heart of these people who cared for him," said Jeni Hatter, spokeswoman for the aquarium.
Hatter said that a couple of hours after he was released, Dunham met up with a pair of sharks, and they did what sharks do: attacked and severely injured the dolphin. Biologists were nearby in boats monitoring the movements of the dolphin, which had a radio transmitter attached to its dorsal fin.
They rushed to help but ended up euthanizing Dunham because of the severity of the injuries.
With news video and photo gallery.
Dunham, the Atlantic bottlenose dolphin that was released yesterday morning after eight months in rehab recovering from pneumonia, got only a taste of the freedom. Within a couple hours of being freed off the coast of Dunedin, the dolphin was attacked by sharks and died.
Officials with the Clearwater Marine Aquarium were quiet about specifics, but they were troubled by the death of the mammal they nursed back from near-death in December.
"This is a stab to the heart of these people who cared for him," said Jeni Hatter, spokeswoman for the aquarium.
Hatter said that a couple of hours after he was released, Dunham met up with a pair of sharks, and they did what sharks do: attacked and severely injured the dolphin. Biologists were nearby in boats monitoring the movements of the dolphin, which had a radio transmitter attached to its dorsal fin.
They rushed to help but ended up euthanizing Dunham because of the severity of the injuries.
With news video and photo gallery.
Ban fury after oysters fail the mouse test
Oyster-lovers are in revolt against mice used to test the shellfish for toxins after the death of the rodents has lead to a ban on the delicacy for the fifth year running.
They are the most controversial mice in France, as their fate dictates the fortunes of a multimillion-euro shellfish industry, and critics say that their use epitomise the Government’s excessive health and safety culture.
A ban was introduced recently on the oysters of the Arcachon Bay near Bordeaux in southwest France — considered by gastronomes to be among France’s finest — after they were deemed to be toxic after a test that involved giving the shellfish to laboratory mice.
Oyster producers say this is the fifth successive year in which the death of mice has resulted in the closure of oyster stalls, and the fourth this year.
The region’s 350 oyster farmers have now dismissed the test as meaningless and in an act of defiance are continuing to sell their catches despite official warnings that they could endanger health. The rebellion appears to have thrown the authorities on to the defensive and only 24 producers have been fined the token sum of €11 each.
“This test is a sham and a fraud which is going to lead to the disappearance of oyster production in the Arcachon Bay,” said Olivier Laban, chairman of the regional oyster producers’ committee. His words carry weight, since Arcachon’s oysters have been cherished by bons vivants since the Middle Ages, although they account for less than 10 per cent of total French production.
They are the most controversial mice in France, as their fate dictates the fortunes of a multimillion-euro shellfish industry, and critics say that their use epitomise the Government’s excessive health and safety culture.
A ban was introduced recently on the oysters of the Arcachon Bay near Bordeaux in southwest France — considered by gastronomes to be among France’s finest — after they were deemed to be toxic after a test that involved giving the shellfish to laboratory mice.
Oyster producers say this is the fifth successive year in which the death of mice has resulted in the closure of oyster stalls, and the fourth this year.
The region’s 350 oyster farmers have now dismissed the test as meaningless and in an act of defiance are continuing to sell their catches despite official warnings that they could endanger health. The rebellion appears to have thrown the authorities on to the defensive and only 24 producers have been fined the token sum of €11 each.
“This test is a sham and a fraud which is going to lead to the disappearance of oyster production in the Arcachon Bay,” said Olivier Laban, chairman of the regional oyster producers’ committee. His words carry weight, since Arcachon’s oysters have been cherished by bons vivants since the Middle Ages, although they account for less than 10 per cent of total French production.
Escaped snakes cause multiple car crash
A motorist who caused a multiple car crash has blamed the incident on two snakes escaping from his trouser pocket.
Angel Rolon claimed he lost control of his sports utility vehicle when the baby reptiles slithered over the accelerator and brake pedals. The 20-year-old's vehicle was then seen swerving as he tried to catch the creatures.
His SUV crashed into some parked cars and overturned in a street in Hartford, Connecticut.
Hartford police sergeant Christene Mertes said Mr Rolon was taken to hospital with minor injuries.
She said officers later recovered the snakes from the car.
Mr Rolon, from New Britain, was charged with reckless driving and driving without a licence.
Angel Rolon claimed he lost control of his sports utility vehicle when the baby reptiles slithered over the accelerator and brake pedals. The 20-year-old's vehicle was then seen swerving as he tried to catch the creatures.
His SUV crashed into some parked cars and overturned in a street in Hartford, Connecticut.
Hartford police sergeant Christene Mertes said Mr Rolon was taken to hospital with minor injuries.
She said officers later recovered the snakes from the car.
Mr Rolon, from New Britain, was charged with reckless driving and driving without a licence.
Jesus appears in burger grease
Builder Oliver Bellerby discovered this image of Jesus in a baking tray. Oliver spotted the perfectly formed face of Christ in browned fat after cooking a burger for a dinner.
The 21-year-old, from Harrogate, Yorkshire, was stunned by what he saw in the leftover grease.
He said: "I went back to the kitchen after having dinner to get a drink and I just saw it straight away - the face of Jesus.
"My mate saw it too when I showed him. It blew us both away so we took a picture."
The 21-year-old, from Harrogate, Yorkshire, was stunned by what he saw in the leftover grease.
He said: "I went back to the kitchen after having dinner to get a drink and I just saw it straight away - the face of Jesus.
"My mate saw it too when I showed him. It blew us both away so we took a picture."
Daughter kept mother's body in bed for a year
A reclusive woman's body was kept at home by her daughter for more than a year after she died. The decomposed body of Doreen Hulme, 81, was found under a duvet in bed at her home last December. A Stockport inquest was told her daughter Vivien, her carer for 35 years, was arrested on suspicion of murder, but was later released without charge.
Det Sgt Myra Ball said Vivien asked police: "What are you doing arresting me, I've got to go home to look after my mother. And who's going to feed my cats, my mum is waiting at home."
Joan Hulme, one of Mrs Hulme's four daughters, said she visited her mother and her `eccentric' sister in August 2007 before going on holiday. But after she got back, she was never able to go in her mother's semi in Rostherne Road, Sale Moor. Ms Hulme said her mother had been highly intelligent, but became a recluse after losing her sight.
Coroner John Pollard said: "Vivien told police her mum died in her sleep some time around August 2007. She also said she had gone into a state of shock. Her sisters were abroad, she was alone and she had a breakdown, she couldn't cope with the death of her mother."
Ms Hulme said Vivien `did everything she could' and added: "Mum died the way she wanted to and lived the way she wanted to. Social services couldn't have done anything for her, so I don't hold anyone responsible."
David Hanley, of Trafford council's social services, said: "The only people who had access to Mrs Hulme were the family and they raised no concerns about her wellbeing. She wanted to be at home with Vivien and Vivien cared well for her given the circumstances." Mr Pollard said `it would have been preferable' if Vivien had reported her death straight away, but this did not alter `the care she gave her mother up to her death'. He recorded a verdict of natural causes.
Det Sgt Myra Ball said Vivien asked police: "What are you doing arresting me, I've got to go home to look after my mother. And who's going to feed my cats, my mum is waiting at home."
Joan Hulme, one of Mrs Hulme's four daughters, said she visited her mother and her `eccentric' sister in August 2007 before going on holiday. But after she got back, she was never able to go in her mother's semi in Rostherne Road, Sale Moor. Ms Hulme said her mother had been highly intelligent, but became a recluse after losing her sight.
Coroner John Pollard said: "Vivien told police her mum died in her sleep some time around August 2007. She also said she had gone into a state of shock. Her sisters were abroad, she was alone and she had a breakdown, she couldn't cope with the death of her mother."
Ms Hulme said Vivien `did everything she could' and added: "Mum died the way she wanted to and lived the way she wanted to. Social services couldn't have done anything for her, so I don't hold anyone responsible."
David Hanley, of Trafford council's social services, said: "The only people who had access to Mrs Hulme were the family and they raised no concerns about her wellbeing. She wanted to be at home with Vivien and Vivien cared well for her given the circumstances." Mr Pollard said `it would have been preferable' if Vivien had reported her death straight away, but this did not alter `the care she gave her mother up to her death'. He recorded a verdict of natural causes.
David Cameron apologises for saying 'too many twits might make a twat'
The leader of the Conservative Party was forced to apologise yesterday morning after swearing twice during a live radio interview.
In an apparent bid to prove that he was not out of touch, David Cameron appeared on the Christian O’Connell show on Absolute Radio to discuss his life outside Westminster. He turned his satirical fire on the latest internet craze, revealing that he was not on Twitter.
"Politicians do have to think about what they say," said Mr Cameron. “The trouble with Twitter, the instantness [sic] of it, is I think that too many twits might make a twat.” Laughter echoed round the studio at Mr Cameron's witticism, and the spluttering host replied: “I think that’s fantastic.”
The man expected to become Britain’s next Prime Minister proceeded to demonstrate for a second time that regrettable remarks were not confined to social networking tools, by repeating his error and swearing again.
He told thousands of breakfast show listeners: “The public are rightly, I think, pissed off - sorry, I can’t say that in the morning - angry with politicians.”
After the interview at Absolute, formerly Virgin Radio, his public relations advisors were scrambled to argue that “twat”, a vulgar synonym for the human vagina, was not technically defined as a swear word under radio guidelines.
In an apparent bid to prove that he was not out of touch, David Cameron appeared on the Christian O’Connell show on Absolute Radio to discuss his life outside Westminster. He turned his satirical fire on the latest internet craze, revealing that he was not on Twitter.
"Politicians do have to think about what they say," said Mr Cameron. “The trouble with Twitter, the instantness [sic] of it, is I think that too many twits might make a twat.” Laughter echoed round the studio at Mr Cameron's witticism, and the spluttering host replied: “I think that’s fantastic.”
The man expected to become Britain’s next Prime Minister proceeded to demonstrate for a second time that regrettable remarks were not confined to social networking tools, by repeating his error and swearing again.
He told thousands of breakfast show listeners: “The public are rightly, I think, pissed off - sorry, I can’t say that in the morning - angry with politicians.”
After the interview at Absolute, formerly Virgin Radio, his public relations advisors were scrambled to argue that “twat”, a vulgar synonym for the human vagina, was not technically defined as a swear word under radio guidelines.
Pants-on-head knife raider hits petrol station
Essex police have issued an appeal for information after a masked man armed with a carving knife carried out a robbery at a petrol station in Clacton.
The incident happened at the London Road Garage in London Road yesterday at 10.50pm.
A cashier was alone in the shop when a man - with his face covered by what is thought to be a pair of white underpants or boxer shorts - walked in, brandished a knife and demanded money.
He then grabbed the 36-year-old cashier and held him in a headlock while holding the knife at his back and forced him to open the till. The robber grabbed a three-figure sum of notes and ran from the shop in the direction of Knox Road.
Det Sgt Kevin Cooper said: “This was a nasty incident in which the robber used force and threatened the cashier with a knife. The cashier was unharmed but obviously badly shaken.
“We want to hear from anyone with information about the robber or may have seen him lurking in the area before the attack or saw him running away.”
The man was white, about 6ft, in his early 20s, of medium build and had short brown hair. He was wearing a black Adidas tracksuit with three white stripes and dark coloured trainers.
The incident happened at the London Road Garage in London Road yesterday at 10.50pm.
A cashier was alone in the shop when a man - with his face covered by what is thought to be a pair of white underpants or boxer shorts - walked in, brandished a knife and demanded money.
He then grabbed the 36-year-old cashier and held him in a headlock while holding the knife at his back and forced him to open the till. The robber grabbed a three-figure sum of notes and ran from the shop in the direction of Knox Road.
Det Sgt Kevin Cooper said: “This was a nasty incident in which the robber used force and threatened the cashier with a knife. The cashier was unharmed but obviously badly shaken.
“We want to hear from anyone with information about the robber or may have seen him lurking in the area before the attack or saw him running away.”
The man was white, about 6ft, in his early 20s, of medium build and had short brown hair. He was wearing a black Adidas tracksuit with three white stripes and dark coloured trainers.
Cat rides bus so often it gets picture on side
Meet Casper, the commuting cat who's fast becoming a celebrity on Plymouth buses. Regular users of First's number 3 service may recognise the fluffy feline, who has been driving his owner up the wall with his constant trips to the city centre.
The adventurous cat politely queues behind other passengers at the bus stop outside his Barne Barton home, then quietly trots on board and curls up on a seat for the ride. But far from causing mischief he has proved a hit with drivers and customers alike, who always make sure he returns home safely.
Casper's journey takes him from just outside his house in Poole Park Road to the final stop at Royal Parade and back, via St Budeaux Square, HMS Drake, Keyham, Devonport and Stonehouse. His owner Susan Finden has only just found out about his antics – but First Group have been bussing Casper around for months.
Now the company is even hatching plans to decorate the side of a Ugobus with a giant photograph of Casper, such is his popularity on the route.
Susan found out about Casper's regular 11-mile round trips when he followed her to the bus stop one morning, avoiding passing vehicles by a whisker. "The driver told me he gets on all the time," she said. "I couldn't believe it. He queues up in line with people and just sits patiently in the queue good as gold – it'll be 'Person, person, person, cat, person, person.'
"He seems to be picking First buses rather than the Citybus ones, but we don't know why. When the drivers do their turnaround they'll all check the bus and if he's on there they make sure he stays on for the return trip. Then local people will take him off when he gets to the right stop. I'm really appreciative to all the drivers for making sure he gets home safely; I'd hate to lose him."
With slideshow. There's a news video here.
The adventurous cat politely queues behind other passengers at the bus stop outside his Barne Barton home, then quietly trots on board and curls up on a seat for the ride. But far from causing mischief he has proved a hit with drivers and customers alike, who always make sure he returns home safely.
Casper's journey takes him from just outside his house in Poole Park Road to the final stop at Royal Parade and back, via St Budeaux Square, HMS Drake, Keyham, Devonport and Stonehouse. His owner Susan Finden has only just found out about his antics – but First Group have been bussing Casper around for months.
Now the company is even hatching plans to decorate the side of a Ugobus with a giant photograph of Casper, such is his popularity on the route.
Susan found out about Casper's regular 11-mile round trips when he followed her to the bus stop one morning, avoiding passing vehicles by a whisker. "The driver told me he gets on all the time," she said. "I couldn't believe it. He queues up in line with people and just sits patiently in the queue good as gold – it'll be 'Person, person, person, cat, person, person.'
"He seems to be picking First buses rather than the Citybus ones, but we don't know why. When the drivers do their turnaround they'll all check the bus and if he's on there they make sure he stays on for the return trip. Then local people will take him off when he gets to the right stop. I'm really appreciative to all the drivers for making sure he gets home safely; I'd hate to lose him."
With slideshow. There's a news video here.
Library fan nears 25,000th book
An avid reader in south west Scotland is on the brink of borrowing her 25,000th book from her local libraries.
Louise Brown, 91, from Stranraer, took her first book on loan from Castle Douglas library in 1946.
Since then she has borrowed at least six books every week throughout each year and has recently increased that to about 12 volumes every seven days.
Library staff said they were amazed by the achievement, particularly since Mrs Brown has never had an overdue fine.
The Dumfries and Galloway pensioner first became a member at Castle Douglas library and has particularly fond memories of the staff there.
Staff at the library described Mrs Brown as a "remarkable lady" and said they looked forward to her weekly visits.
Louise Brown, 91, from Stranraer, took her first book on loan from Castle Douglas library in 1946.
Since then she has borrowed at least six books every week throughout each year and has recently increased that to about 12 volumes every seven days.
Library staff said they were amazed by the achievement, particularly since Mrs Brown has never had an overdue fine.
The Dumfries and Galloway pensioner first became a member at Castle Douglas library and has particularly fond memories of the staff there.
Staff at the library described Mrs Brown as a "remarkable lady" and said they looked forward to her weekly visits.
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Food dye ‘may help cure spinal injuries but will turn patients blue’
A food dye similar to the one used in blue M&Ms and liquorice allsorts could offer hope to people with spinal cord injuries, its only drawback being that it would briefly turn them blue. In a study of rats the dye, known as brilliant blue G (BBG), reduced inflamation in the spinal cord and signifiantly improved long-term outcomes after injury.
An unforeseen side-effect of the treatment on rats was that their skin turned bright blue, leaving the white animals with bizarre blue noses, ears, paws and tails. The eyes of the albino rats turned from pink to a deep navy.
In the study, details of which are published today in the journal PNAS (Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences ), rats were injected with either a high or low dose of BBG within 15 minutes of receiving a spinal cord injury. A control group was injected with water.
Both the groups given the BBG treatment showed much better long-term recovery than the control rats. After 42 days, the best-performing BBG rats were able to co-ordinate the movement of their front and back legs well enough to support their weight and walk. None of the control rats was able to do so.
Apart from their unusual appearance, the rats seemed not to suffer any ill effects. Their body temperature, blood pressure and weight were unchanged. There was no difference in effectiveness between the two doses but the rats on the higher dose turned a deeper shade of blue.
All of the rats resumed their natural colour within a week. The skin colouring could last longer in humans, however, as our metabolism is about eight times slower.
An unforeseen side-effect of the treatment on rats was that their skin turned bright blue, leaving the white animals with bizarre blue noses, ears, paws and tails. The eyes of the albino rats turned from pink to a deep navy.
In the study, details of which are published today in the journal PNAS (Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences ), rats were injected with either a high or low dose of BBG within 15 minutes of receiving a spinal cord injury. A control group was injected with water.
Both the groups given the BBG treatment showed much better long-term recovery than the control rats. After 42 days, the best-performing BBG rats were able to co-ordinate the movement of their front and back legs well enough to support their weight and walk. None of the control rats was able to do so.
Apart from their unusual appearance, the rats seemed not to suffer any ill effects. Their body temperature, blood pressure and weight were unchanged. There was no difference in effectiveness between the two doses but the rats on the higher dose turned a deeper shade of blue.
All of the rats resumed their natural colour within a week. The skin colouring could last longer in humans, however, as our metabolism is about eight times slower.
Charles Manson seeks career guidance from Phil Spector
Convicted cult leader Charles Manson has reached out to convicted music producer Phil Spector, suggesting that the two jailbirds collaborate on pop songs. Both men are serving life sentences in central California's Corcoran State Prison.
Manson contacted Spector shortly after the producer arrived, dispatching a guard with a note. "[Manson] said he wanted him to come over to his [cell]," Spector's wife, Rachelle, said. "He said he considers Philip the greatest producer who ever lived."
Certainly Manson has a right to an opinion. Though his clan, the Manson Family, are known as killers, they were also conceived as a music group. Before launching the murder conspiracy that killed Sharon Tate, Manson and his followers recorded songs with the Beach Boys' Dennis Wilson. Terry Melcher, who produced the Byrds' Turn, Turn, Turn, was another acquaintance – and a target – of the group.
Spector managed to avoid the Manson Family, mixing instead with the Supremes, Ike and Tina Turner, and Manson's beloved Beatles.
"I think Manson wants to glean some musical advice from Phil, who was a 60s music god with his 'Wall of Sound,'" Spector's publicist Hal Lifson said. "Phil's like, 'I used to pick up the phone and it was John Lennon or Celine Dion or Tina Turner, and now Charles Manson is trying to get a hold of me!'"
And even though Spector must serve at least 19 more years for the murder of Lana Clarkson, he is still not interested in a Manson team-up. "It was creepy," Rachelle Spector said. "Philip didn't respond."
Manson contacted Spector shortly after the producer arrived, dispatching a guard with a note. "[Manson] said he wanted him to come over to his [cell]," Spector's wife, Rachelle, said. "He said he considers Philip the greatest producer who ever lived."
Certainly Manson has a right to an opinion. Though his clan, the Manson Family, are known as killers, they were also conceived as a music group. Before launching the murder conspiracy that killed Sharon Tate, Manson and his followers recorded songs with the Beach Boys' Dennis Wilson. Terry Melcher, who produced the Byrds' Turn, Turn, Turn, was another acquaintance – and a target – of the group.
Spector managed to avoid the Manson Family, mixing instead with the Supremes, Ike and Tina Turner, and Manson's beloved Beatles.
"I think Manson wants to glean some musical advice from Phil, who was a 60s music god with his 'Wall of Sound,'" Spector's publicist Hal Lifson said. "Phil's like, 'I used to pick up the phone and it was John Lennon or Celine Dion or Tina Turner, and now Charles Manson is trying to get a hold of me!'"
And even though Spector must serve at least 19 more years for the murder of Lana Clarkson, he is still not interested in a Manson team-up. "It was creepy," Rachelle Spector said. "Philip didn't respond."
Woman freed after being trapped on lavatory for a week
An Australian woman has been rescued after she fell into her lavatory and was trapped there for a week. The Queensland woman, who has not been named, was only found by the emergency services after a neighbour heard her cries for help.
When an ambulance arrived paramedics found her stuck on the lavatory and unable to get out. She was dehydrated but otherwise unharmed, despite having spent seven days wedged in the same position.
Reports said the woman, aged 67, was found at midday on Sunday and had become stuck the previous Sunday morning. Eventually she was freed when emergency services broke into the home through a back door and found her in the bathroom.
"The lady was manoeuvred to one side to free her. The door swings inwards and she had her feet wedged on either side of the lavatory," a Department of Community Services spokesman said. "She was very dehydrated but she was conscious."
Michael Hibberd, a neighbour, said the woman told him she had been there since 3am on Sunday. "To me that meant that morning but she meant last Sunday." He had not become concerned earlier because it was normal to not see the woman during the week, he said."I'd never even seen her collect her mail," he said.
The woman was taken to hospital for treatment.
When an ambulance arrived paramedics found her stuck on the lavatory and unable to get out. She was dehydrated but otherwise unharmed, despite having spent seven days wedged in the same position.
Reports said the woman, aged 67, was found at midday on Sunday and had become stuck the previous Sunday morning. Eventually she was freed when emergency services broke into the home through a back door and found her in the bathroom.
"The lady was manoeuvred to one side to free her. The door swings inwards and she had her feet wedged on either side of the lavatory," a Department of Community Services spokesman said. "She was very dehydrated but she was conscious."
Michael Hibberd, a neighbour, said the woman told him she had been there since 3am on Sunday. "To me that meant that morning but she meant last Sunday." He had not become concerned earlier because it was normal to not see the woman during the week, he said."I'd never even seen her collect her mail," he said.
The woman was taken to hospital for treatment.
Motorcyclist rides over children's hands at school event
A government elementary school in Villupuram district of Tamil Nadu, India recently organized an event in which a motorcyclist rode over the outstretched hands of students lying on the ground and a plank placed over a girl exposing the children to serious harm.
The celebrations marked the birth centenary of the late chief minister K Kamaraj. It was meant to be a 'bravery show', but it resulted in gross violation of child rights, virtually putting them at risk of incurring serious injuries. The show began with a batch of students displaying their karate skills. Then came the shocking event. The incident evoked strong protests from child rights activists, who want the government to sensitize the teaching fraternity, particularly those in rural areas, on basic rights of children.
Ironically, the event was organized in consultation with the parents-teachers’ association of the municipality elementary school at Keezhperumpakkam in Villupuram on a day when a trust managed by the family of higher education minister K Ponmudy came forward to distribute free uniforms and stationery items to the students. It was the minister’s wife, present as chief guest, who stopped the school authorities from continuing their ‘daring stunts’. ‘‘After witnessing a couple of events, the minister’s wife directed us to stop the show. We abruptly ended the programme,’’ said parents-teachers’ association treasurer M Elangovan.
Headmaster Ramanujam, who took charge in December 2008, maintained that the event was organised with the unanimous consent of the parents-teachers' body.
The celebrations marked the birth centenary of the late chief minister K Kamaraj. It was meant to be a 'bravery show', but it resulted in gross violation of child rights, virtually putting them at risk of incurring serious injuries. The show began with a batch of students displaying their karate skills. Then came the shocking event. The incident evoked strong protests from child rights activists, who want the government to sensitize the teaching fraternity, particularly those in rural areas, on basic rights of children.
Ironically, the event was organized in consultation with the parents-teachers’ association of the municipality elementary school at Keezhperumpakkam in Villupuram on a day when a trust managed by the family of higher education minister K Ponmudy came forward to distribute free uniforms and stationery items to the students. It was the minister’s wife, present as chief guest, who stopped the school authorities from continuing their ‘daring stunts’. ‘‘After witnessing a couple of events, the minister’s wife directed us to stop the show. We abruptly ended the programme,’’ said parents-teachers’ association treasurer M Elangovan.
Headmaster Ramanujam, who took charge in December 2008, maintained that the event was organised with the unanimous consent of the parents-teachers' body.
The boy who is allergic to food
When Kaleb Bussenschutt’s family sat down for his favourite meal of barbequed chicken on Monday night, he had to watch with envy, munching only on a cup of ice cubes. Kaleb, 5, who lives with his family in Adelaide, South Australia, suffers from a rare allergy that means he cannot stomach any type of food.
Australian doctors are baffled by the child’s condition, which arose after his mother Melissa tried to wean him off breast milk when he was an infant. “I tried giving him a little bit of a Vegemite sandwich or a tub of yoghurt, but it gave him constant diahorrea,” Mrs Bussenschutt said. “I knew something wasn’t right so I took him to hospital and they did a biopsy of his stomach and it showed that it was quite red and inflamed and full of ulcers.”
Doctors initially thought Kaleb was milk or soy intolerant, so put him on a series of diets, including one consisting only of organic foods, but nothing seemed to work. “We’ve tried everything,” Mrs Bussenschutt said. “But from about the age of 18 months through to 5 he just increasingly got worse.”
Kaleb’s condition became so bad last December that the Bussenschutts admitted him to hospital, where he did not stop vomiting for a week and would wake at 3am screaming in pain.
Doctors concluded that he suffers from multiple food allergies and intolerances and severe malabsorption, which means his body cannot cope with food. They are continuing to conduct tests to determine why he reacts so badly to food. “All the doctors will tell me is that Kaleb is a very complicated child. No one knows what is wrong with him,” Mrs Bussenschutt said.
Dr Paul Hammond, a paediatric gastroenterologist from the Women’s and Children’s hospital in Adelaide, has treated Kaleb for the past four years and said he had never seen anything like it. “We do sometimes see this in babies but for someone of Kaleb’s age it is incredibly rare,” Dr Hammond said.
Australian doctors are baffled by the child’s condition, which arose after his mother Melissa tried to wean him off breast milk when he was an infant. “I tried giving him a little bit of a Vegemite sandwich or a tub of yoghurt, but it gave him constant diahorrea,” Mrs Bussenschutt said. “I knew something wasn’t right so I took him to hospital and they did a biopsy of his stomach and it showed that it was quite red and inflamed and full of ulcers.”
Doctors initially thought Kaleb was milk or soy intolerant, so put him on a series of diets, including one consisting only of organic foods, but nothing seemed to work. “We’ve tried everything,” Mrs Bussenschutt said. “But from about the age of 18 months through to 5 he just increasingly got worse.”
Kaleb’s condition became so bad last December that the Bussenschutts admitted him to hospital, where he did not stop vomiting for a week and would wake at 3am screaming in pain.
Doctors concluded that he suffers from multiple food allergies and intolerances and severe malabsorption, which means his body cannot cope with food. They are continuing to conduct tests to determine why he reacts so badly to food. “All the doctors will tell me is that Kaleb is a very complicated child. No one knows what is wrong with him,” Mrs Bussenschutt said.
Dr Paul Hammond, a paediatric gastroenterologist from the Women’s and Children’s hospital in Adelaide, has treated Kaleb for the past four years and said he had never seen anything like it. “We do sometimes see this in babies but for someone of Kaleb’s age it is incredibly rare,” Dr Hammond said.
Woman who loses ear in fight has it sewn into her bottom
Doctors have saved a woman's severed lobe by stitching it into her bottom. Julia Schwarz's right ear was bitten off by her best friend in a fight over a lover.
But when medics tried to reattach it, they found they couldn't because of the injuries she sustained to the side of her head.
Surgeons in Cologne, Germany, said the damage had to be repaired before they could try again.
So they made a small incision in her backside and stitched the severed lobe inside — where it will be kept for safekeeping until they are ready for a further operation.
Now doctors are confident the ear will not be rejected by 27-year-old Julia's body.
Her solicitor Reinhard Birkenstock said: "My client has suffered enormous emotional distress. She was afraid to leave the house because of the disfigurement."
But when medics tried to reattach it, they found they couldn't because of the injuries she sustained to the side of her head.
Surgeons in Cologne, Germany, said the damage had to be repaired before they could try again.
So they made a small incision in her backside and stitched the severed lobe inside — where it will be kept for safekeeping until they are ready for a further operation.
Now doctors are confident the ear will not be rejected by 27-year-old Julia's body.
Her solicitor Reinhard Birkenstock said: "My client has suffered enormous emotional distress. She was afraid to leave the house because of the disfigurement."
Bikini clad suspect goes on crime spree
A bikini wearing bandit remains in the Desoto County Jail. The 24-year-old Horn Lake woman was arrested on Thursday after a short-lived crime spree. In Morgan Haley's mug shot, a disheveled hospital gown covers-up her identifying wardrobe, or lack thereof, her bikini. "I would say are you going swimming," Margie Gleason said. Gleason lives on Donald Drive in Southaven. That's where Police Chief Tom Long says the 24-year-old bikini bandit ran-up to her first victims, a mother and her two children. Neighbours say the kids were inside a car last Thursday afternoon.
"Basically, we received a call about a carjacking that had just occurred," Chief Long said. Chief Long says the bikini-clad woman walked up to the car, she was loud and aggressive. If the two kids were not inside, this story may have had a different ending.
"She felt she would have reacted differently had the children not been there, then she certainly would not have given up her car to somebody without a fight," Chief Long said. But Chief Long says Haley did get into a fight not too far away at "Southaven RV Center." He says she tried to rob the place. "We were sitting in the dealership and out of the blue, this car comes wheeling by and pulls in next to the building and it did raise some eyebrows," Southaven RV Center salesman Fred Blaylack said.
So did her attire and so-called weapon. "Somebody said she had her arm under a towel at one point. Somebody said she had a cell phone and was trying to use it. She just assumed a stance... just pointing, in an attempt to get them to believe she was armed," Chief Long said. The employees didn't buy it. Chief Long says a few of them wrestled with her when she ran behind the counter. They held her until officers arrived. No one was hurt.
"The RV Center was kind enough to donate a shirt. So, she did not have to be transported in her bikini," Chief Long said. Haley faces un-armed carjacking, assault, and disorderly conduct charges. As of Monday afternoon, she was still in the Desoto County Jail.
The owner of Southaven RV Center didn't want to do an interview about Haley, or, release the surveillance video of the scuffle. His employees say he has compassion for the young woman. Officers are still waiting to see if alcohol or drugs played a factor in this incident.
"Basically, we received a call about a carjacking that had just occurred," Chief Long said. Chief Long says the bikini-clad woman walked up to the car, she was loud and aggressive. If the two kids were not inside, this story may have had a different ending.
"She felt she would have reacted differently had the children not been there, then she certainly would not have given up her car to somebody without a fight," Chief Long said. But Chief Long says Haley did get into a fight not too far away at "Southaven RV Center." He says she tried to rob the place. "We were sitting in the dealership and out of the blue, this car comes wheeling by and pulls in next to the building and it did raise some eyebrows," Southaven RV Center salesman Fred Blaylack said.
So did her attire and so-called weapon. "Somebody said she had her arm under a towel at one point. Somebody said she had a cell phone and was trying to use it. She just assumed a stance... just pointing, in an attempt to get them to believe she was armed," Chief Long said. The employees didn't buy it. Chief Long says a few of them wrestled with her when she ran behind the counter. They held her until officers arrived. No one was hurt.
"The RV Center was kind enough to donate a shirt. So, she did not have to be transported in her bikini," Chief Long said. Haley faces un-armed carjacking, assault, and disorderly conduct charges. As of Monday afternoon, she was still in the Desoto County Jail.
The owner of Southaven RV Center didn't want to do an interview about Haley, or, release the surveillance video of the scuffle. His employees say he has compassion for the young woman. Officers are still waiting to see if alcohol or drugs played a factor in this incident.
Incensed footballers chase referee off the pitch
Footballers from the Tianjin team in China became so enraged during a match that they chased the referee off the pitch.
Tianjin were playing a match against Beijing in China's National Games.
The drama began after two Tianjin players were sent off, one for a blatant stamp on an opponent who was lying on the ground.
Incensed by the referee's decision-making, the team decided to act - and went after the official.
Security personnel successfully managed to hold back Tianjin's number eight, before another player managed to break free to pursue the luckless ref and shove him to the ground.
Their actions saw the entire team completely disqualified from the competition.
Tianjin were playing a match against Beijing in China's National Games.
The drama began after two Tianjin players were sent off, one for a blatant stamp on an opponent who was lying on the ground.
Incensed by the referee's decision-making, the team decided to act - and went after the official.
Security personnel successfully managed to hold back Tianjin's number eight, before another player managed to break free to pursue the luckless ref and shove him to the ground.
Their actions saw the entire team completely disqualified from the competition.
'Semi-automatic' taser gun shocks three times
A new multi-shot Taser stun gun which can shock three people without being reloaded has been unveiled. The X3 "electronic control device" comes with improved safety features, manufacturer Taser International said.
The company demonstrated the weapon on three employees who volunteered to be shot at its headquarters in Scottsdale, Arizona. Older Tasers, which are used by 14,200 law enforcement agencies throughout the US, have to be reloaded after one shot.
But the new stun gun would "increase officer safety through the ability to recover from a missed shot or even simultaneously stop up to three separate targets", the firm's chief executive said. Rick Smith added: "This is as big a step as when firearms went from a muzzle loader to the revolver. If I was a cop I would want to carry one."
Like the previous model, the new Taser shoots two barbed wires which deliver around six watts of electrical current for several seconds, temporarily immobilising people from a distance of up to 35 feet (10.7 metres) away.
Human rights campaigners have criticised Tasers and challenged the manufacturer's claims that they are safe and not lethal. More than 300 people died after being shocked by the weapons between 2001 and August 2008, according to a report published by Amnesty International in December last year.
The new Taser, which will be available to police and other agencies in late August, costs $1,800 (£1,090), compared with $800 (£483) for the older model. The manufacturers will operate a trade-in scheme by offering credits worth $300-$800 (£182-£485) for the old version.
The company demonstrated the weapon on three employees who volunteered to be shot at its headquarters in Scottsdale, Arizona. Older Tasers, which are used by 14,200 law enforcement agencies throughout the US, have to be reloaded after one shot.
But the new stun gun would "increase officer safety through the ability to recover from a missed shot or even simultaneously stop up to three separate targets", the firm's chief executive said. Rick Smith added: "This is as big a step as when firearms went from a muzzle loader to the revolver. If I was a cop I would want to carry one."
Like the previous model, the new Taser shoots two barbed wires which deliver around six watts of electrical current for several seconds, temporarily immobilising people from a distance of up to 35 feet (10.7 metres) away.
Human rights campaigners have criticised Tasers and challenged the manufacturer's claims that they are safe and not lethal. More than 300 people died after being shocked by the weapons between 2001 and August 2008, according to a report published by Amnesty International in December last year.
The new Taser, which will be available to police and other agencies in late August, costs $1,800 (£1,090), compared with $800 (£483) for the older model. The manufacturers will operate a trade-in scheme by offering credits worth $300-$800 (£182-£485) for the old version.
Library ban Sunday school poster for being too religious
Library officials banned a youth leader from putting up a poster because they said it was too religious. Jacalyn Oghan, who helps out at St Mary’s Church, in Upper Rock Gardens, Brighton, went to the city’s Jubilee Library to advertise a multi-faith event.
But when she asked for permission to put up a poster she was told she could not as it would promote religion - despite the library shop offering products which appear to mock Christianity. The Messiah mints, which claim to provide Holy fresh breath, are sold in a tin with a picture of Jesus on the front.
The slogan says: “He can't feed the 5,000 with this cute little tin of peppermints, but you'll feel a whole lot better after your hearty banquet of fish and loaves!” Mrs Oghan said she was angry when she saw them on sale. She said: “It’s political correctness gone mad and I do think it’s a little hypocritical.
“They said they couldn’t put up my poster because it was not in their guidelines. How they can get away selling the mints in the shop when I’m not allowed to give out inoffensive leaflets I do not know. They clearly take the mickey out of Christianity. I’m not offended but was angry that they were allowed to sell these mints for a profit. How is it that they are allowed to sell mints which clearly contain a religious figure? It is so sad they can do that, yet a leaflet inclusive to all faiths and cultures is still deemed non-PC.”
A spokeswoman for the council said: "We're sorry that this person was upset with the incident in the library. In the interests of fairness, we have very clear and strict guidelines for displaying information in the library and we do not accept any material promoting a particular religious view point.
“With regards to the mints, these are one of a series of tinned mints sold in the shop. The labelling is not meant to offend and this is the first time we have received negative comments about them."
But when she asked for permission to put up a poster she was told she could not as it would promote religion - despite the library shop offering products which appear to mock Christianity. The Messiah mints, which claim to provide Holy fresh breath, are sold in a tin with a picture of Jesus on the front.
The slogan says: “He can't feed the 5,000 with this cute little tin of peppermints, but you'll feel a whole lot better after your hearty banquet of fish and loaves!” Mrs Oghan said she was angry when she saw them on sale. She said: “It’s political correctness gone mad and I do think it’s a little hypocritical.
“They said they couldn’t put up my poster because it was not in their guidelines. How they can get away selling the mints in the shop when I’m not allowed to give out inoffensive leaflets I do not know. They clearly take the mickey out of Christianity. I’m not offended but was angry that they were allowed to sell these mints for a profit. How is it that they are allowed to sell mints which clearly contain a religious figure? It is so sad they can do that, yet a leaflet inclusive to all faiths and cultures is still deemed non-PC.”
A spokeswoman for the council said: "We're sorry that this person was upset with the incident in the library. In the interests of fairness, we have very clear and strict guidelines for displaying information in the library and we do not accept any material promoting a particular religious view point.
“With regards to the mints, these are one of a series of tinned mints sold in the shop. The labelling is not meant to offend and this is the first time we have received negative comments about them."
Drunken mother who kicked screaming baby in face escapes jail
A Leicestershire mother who kicked her 19-month-old son in the face because he would not stop screaming has been spared a prison sentence. Donna Smallbones, 21, of Rupert Road, Market Harborough, had pleaded guilty to assault at an earlier hearing.
She kicked Mikey, leaving trainer marks on his forehead, while he was sitting in a pushchair at a friend's house where she was drinking on 16 December. Town magistrates handed her an 18-month community order with supervision.
Smallbones' friends were so shocked they called the police and paramedics, Market Harborough Magistrates' Court was told. Prosecutor Louise Cox said: "They found four parallel dirty marks on the baby's forehead. They appear to have been caused by a glancing blow from a shoe." She said a medical examination was carried out on Mikey and no injuries were found.
When Smallbones was arrested and questioned she originally denied what happened but later admitted kicking out at her son twice. The court heard that the 21-year-old admitted her actions were reckless.
Magistrates at a previous hearing suggested Smallbones, who has learning difficulties, could face a jail sentence. Defence lawyer Prakash Morar told the court: "She has admitted her part and her role.
"No injury was caused, yes contact was made, we have pleaded guilty on the basis that she kicked out twice." He added there had been no instances of Smallbones hurting her son in the past, and it was not feared she would do so again. The toddler is currently on the child protection register and is in the care of Smallbones' parents.
She kicked Mikey, leaving trainer marks on his forehead, while he was sitting in a pushchair at a friend's house where she was drinking on 16 December. Town magistrates handed her an 18-month community order with supervision.
Smallbones' friends were so shocked they called the police and paramedics, Market Harborough Magistrates' Court was told. Prosecutor Louise Cox said: "They found four parallel dirty marks on the baby's forehead. They appear to have been caused by a glancing blow from a shoe." She said a medical examination was carried out on Mikey and no injuries were found.
When Smallbones was arrested and questioned she originally denied what happened but later admitted kicking out at her son twice. The court heard that the 21-year-old admitted her actions were reckless.
Magistrates at a previous hearing suggested Smallbones, who has learning difficulties, could face a jail sentence. Defence lawyer Prakash Morar told the court: "She has admitted her part and her role.
"No injury was caused, yes contact was made, we have pleaded guilty on the basis that she kicked out twice." He added there had been no instances of Smallbones hurting her son in the past, and it was not feared she would do so again. The toddler is currently on the child protection register and is in the care of Smallbones' parents.
Chipmunk invades kitchen
A chipmunk terrorised a family by invading their kitchen and munching their Crunchy Nut Cornflakes. Horrified trucker Bryan Foreman, 50, found the critter with its head in the cereal box. He and wife Susan fear the rodent is one of the vicious Siberian chipmunks which are set to invade Britain.
The creature left Bryan and Susan's two cats shaking - and they and the family's dog now can't go into the garden. Mum-of-four Susan, 44, from the Isle of Sheppey, Kent, said: "It was terrifying. I've never seen anything like it. "We could hear it banging about in the kitchen and when my husband went in it had its head in the cereal and was munching away.
"He shouted and it ran back out into the garden. We think it had a good go at whatever else it found in the cupboards as well. My cats are traumatised. We're too scared to let them out in case it's still lurking."
French naturalist Guy Bruel, who issued one of the first Siberian chipmunk alerts, is sure the rodent was one of them. He warned that other people could find unwelcome guests as the pesky invaders start to get hungry.
The animals can be infected with deadly Lyme disease, which hits the nervous system. They can also carry rabies.
Guy said: "They will stop at nothing to get what they want. This includes sneaking into people's homes to have a nibble of food. They look cuddly and harmless, and this makes them particularly dangerous. If startled they can give a nasty nip, especially when cornered."
Many thanks Foreigner1!.
The creature left Bryan and Susan's two cats shaking - and they and the family's dog now can't go into the garden. Mum-of-four Susan, 44, from the Isle of Sheppey, Kent, said: "It was terrifying. I've never seen anything like it. "We could hear it banging about in the kitchen and when my husband went in it had its head in the cereal and was munching away.
"He shouted and it ran back out into the garden. We think it had a good go at whatever else it found in the cupboards as well. My cats are traumatised. We're too scared to let them out in case it's still lurking."
French naturalist Guy Bruel, who issued one of the first Siberian chipmunk alerts, is sure the rodent was one of them. He warned that other people could find unwelcome guests as the pesky invaders start to get hungry.
The animals can be infected with deadly Lyme disease, which hits the nervous system. They can also carry rabies.
Guy said: "They will stop at nothing to get what they want. This includes sneaking into people's homes to have a nibble of food. They look cuddly and harmless, and this makes them particularly dangerous. If startled they can give a nasty nip, especially when cornered."
Many thanks Foreigner1!.
Stranded sheep shot dead as rescue bid fails - Update
A sheep stranded on a cliff-face near Whitby has been shot dead after a rescue bid failed. The RSPCA feared the animal could bolt and injure those trying to save her.
She had been stuck half way down the 220-foot cliffs between Whitby and Robin Hoods Bay for several weeks. Locals who gathered to take a look said the sheep seemed happy on the remote ledge and in no hurry to move.
She had earned the nickname Aretha - after the soul classic Rescue Me, which was actually sung by Fontella Bass, rather than Aretha Franklin.
RSPCA inspector Justin Le Masurier said they had been left with no choice to kill her. Sedating the animal with a tranquiliser dart could have caused her to become disoriented and fall off.
"In the interests of its welfare, attempting a rope rescue on a 200ft cliff face would be too dangerous for the animal and for any rescue personnel," he said. "She was humanely despatched, arranged by the owner."
He added: "We understand the public's concern for the animal. It is sad sometimes but we took the difficult decision as it was in the interests of the animal." Onlookers had described the ewe as looking healthy and content.
She had been stuck half way down the 220-foot cliffs between Whitby and Robin Hoods Bay for several weeks. Locals who gathered to take a look said the sheep seemed happy on the remote ledge and in no hurry to move.
She had earned the nickname Aretha - after the soul classic Rescue Me, which was actually sung by Fontella Bass, rather than Aretha Franklin.
RSPCA inspector Justin Le Masurier said they had been left with no choice to kill her. Sedating the animal with a tranquiliser dart could have caused her to become disoriented and fall off.
"In the interests of its welfare, attempting a rope rescue on a 200ft cliff face would be too dangerous for the animal and for any rescue personnel," he said. "She was humanely despatched, arranged by the owner."
He added: "We understand the public's concern for the animal. It is sad sometimes but we took the difficult decision as it was in the interests of the animal." Onlookers had described the ewe as looking healthy and content.
Dog saved from 70ft cliff fall by collar
A golden retriever escaped falling to his death after his collar snagged on rocks after he chased a rabbit over a 70ft cliff on the Isle of Wight. Mac plunged over the steep edge while out walking with owner Margaret Sills along a coastal path on the island. But the collar caught on jutting rocks, breaking his fall.
"It saved his life," said Mrs Sills, "If he hadn't been wearing one he would have just free-fallen all the way and there's no way he could have survived."
Mac was taken to Riverbank Animal Hospital where he was treated for broken legs and a punctured lung. Four days later surgeons fitted metal pins in two operations to keep his broken bones in place.
"He'll be in the plaster casts for six months so he can lead a true dog's life until then," said Mrs Stills. "He can't really move so I've been helping him get outside on special ramps I made for him. He can barely support his own weight so I even have to support him when he goes to the toilet. He's really embarrassed I'm sure."
Mrs Sills, a former PA who has suffered four strokes and struggles to walk herself, said Mac's survival meant everything to her.
"He's my only companion at home and he's my best friend," she said. "He makes a lot of things possible for me. If I can't get out of my chair he comes over and supports me. He even picks up my mobile phone when I can't reach it and I haven't even trained him to do it. Now it's my turn to go around picking things up for him, but I don't mind at all. I'm just so happy he's still here."
There are more photos here.
"It saved his life," said Mrs Sills, "If he hadn't been wearing one he would have just free-fallen all the way and there's no way he could have survived."
Mac was taken to Riverbank Animal Hospital where he was treated for broken legs and a punctured lung. Four days later surgeons fitted metal pins in two operations to keep his broken bones in place.
"He'll be in the plaster casts for six months so he can lead a true dog's life until then," said Mrs Stills. "He can't really move so I've been helping him get outside on special ramps I made for him. He can barely support his own weight so I even have to support him when he goes to the toilet. He's really embarrassed I'm sure."
Mrs Sills, a former PA who has suffered four strokes and struggles to walk herself, said Mac's survival meant everything to her.
"He's my only companion at home and he's my best friend," she said. "He makes a lot of things possible for me. If I can't get out of my chair he comes over and supports me. He even picks up my mobile phone when I can't reach it and I haven't even trained him to do it. Now it's my turn to go around picking things up for him, but I don't mind at all. I'm just so happy he's still here."
There are more photos here.
Big cat or stray dog? Off-duty PC films panther-like creature
An off-duty Ministry of Defence police dog handler has taken a video of what he claims is a panther-sized big cat.
Pc Chris Swallow was helping a friend with their garden in Helensburgh, Argyll, when he spotted the black creature on a nearby railway line.
The officer, who is stationed at the Faslane naval base on the Clyde, said the cat was as big as a Labrador dog.
Big cats have been reported in the area in the past, with several sightings of the so-called Coulport Cougar.
Pc Swallow said he saw the animal on 30 June while working in the garden at Kildonan Drive, Helensburgh.
He could tell it was not a Labrador, as he first thought, because of the way it was walking, and because its tail was about twice the length that a dog's would have been.
Pc Chris Swallow was helping a friend with their garden in Helensburgh, Argyll, when he spotted the black creature on a nearby railway line.
The officer, who is stationed at the Faslane naval base on the Clyde, said the cat was as big as a Labrador dog.
Big cats have been reported in the area in the past, with several sightings of the so-called Coulport Cougar.
Pc Swallow said he saw the animal on 30 June while working in the garden at Kildonan Drive, Helensburgh.
He could tell it was not a Labrador, as he first thought, because of the way it was walking, and because its tail was about twice the length that a dog's would have been.
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Kayaker in world record waterfall plunge
American kayaker Tyler Bradt has set a new world record by plunging 186 feet over a waterfall in Washington State.
The only injury the 22-year-old suffered was a sprained wrist and a broken paddle as he fell for four seconds over Palouse Falls before reaching the bottom. Pictures have emerged showing Mr Bradt as a tiny speck in a red canoe perched on the edge of the falls.
He was then swallowed up by the raging torrent of water which cascades down the side of the mountain. The waterfall is so high, the spray it generates causes its own rainbow.
After landing at the bottom, Mr Bradt sank 20ft under the water and stayed submerged for seven seconds before he resurfaced, triumphant.
Mr Bradt said he visited Palouse Falls four times before plucking up the courage to tackle it. Afterwards, he said: "I have been passionate about running waterfalls for a while now.
"I had come to a good understanding of what I believe I am capable of and what is possible. Palouse was a calculated decision to reach further into the unknown and make a dream a reality."
There are more photos here.
The only injury the 22-year-old suffered was a sprained wrist and a broken paddle as he fell for four seconds over Palouse Falls before reaching the bottom. Pictures have emerged showing Mr Bradt as a tiny speck in a red canoe perched on the edge of the falls.
He was then swallowed up by the raging torrent of water which cascades down the side of the mountain. The waterfall is so high, the spray it generates causes its own rainbow.
After landing at the bottom, Mr Bradt sank 20ft under the water and stayed submerged for seven seconds before he resurfaced, triumphant.
Mr Bradt said he visited Palouse Falls four times before plucking up the courage to tackle it. Afterwards, he said: "I have been passionate about running waterfalls for a while now.
"I had come to a good understanding of what I believe I am capable of and what is possible. Palouse was a calculated decision to reach further into the unknown and make a dream a reality."
There are more photos here.
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