You know it makes (no) sense

Murders and other serious crimes committed by prisoners released early from jail may have to be “accepted” by the public as part of attempts to keep down the cost of the criminal justice system, the probation watchdog suggested. The story. What next? Putting out fires is becoming too expensive so let’s not bother?

Cracks appear in Californian town

The authorities in California have tried to stop this annual ritual, but in vain. This year was the 31st Annual Mooning of Amtrak in Laguna Niguel…Californians bare bottoms for passing trains…

The stuff of legends

Dear Mum, have found some ruins, must be Camelot. The legendary figure of Arthur, knight and/or king, has always fascinated historians, with many theories arising as to when he might have lived, the location of his equally legendary stronghold, Camelot, and whether or not he actually had a round table.

Never too late to claim?

Former Colombian politician Ingrid Betancourt, who spent six years as a hostage of leftist Farc rebels, is asking Colombia’s government for compensation. Ms Betancourt and her family are seeking $6.8 million in damages for ’emotional distress’ and loss of earnings during her time as a hostage. Colombian officials, however, appear to be rather surprised by this quest for compensation, pointing out …

Just like mum’s

The ship of the desert may have bad breath and an ill-temper but it has been supplying Bedouins with milk for centuries, and it is not beyond the realms of possibility that it could soon appear on the shelves of European supermarkets. Not entirely sure about promoting it as ‘almost like mum’s own’ though.

Victory is virtually assured

Spain can rest easy tonight in the knowledge that victory over Germany is assured…according to the now famous ‘psychic octopus’. The two-year-old cephalopod, whose name is Paul, has become a national celebrity in Germany, predicting results with at least 70% accuracy….Story…

Apple iPhone 4

Following the furore surrounding poor reception with the new Apple iPhone 4 and the company initially blaming the problem on how people actually hold the phone, Apple have now sent out a letter to all iPhone 4 users after the discovery of a ‘problem’ or ‘mistake’.

Vuvuzela Chorale

For those who think that the vuvuzela is just a gimmick, here is a video with a bit of instruction on how to play the instrument followed by some Brahms and Ravel played by professionals at the Konzerthaus in Berlin.

Will you be requiring a seat?

Many complain about the extras, hidden or otherwise, with the so-called low cost airlines: baggage charges, insurance, charges for online booking when it is the only option available etc. I was surprised, to say the very least, to find out that Flybe now charge you for a seat on the plane as an ‘extra’, six pounds each way on a …

Pulpo Fiction

It is obviously all over bar the shouting: ‘Psychic’ octopus predicts Germany victory over England