"No need for the high-tech scoreboard at Whangateau Domain," says Kevin Russ.
* * *
Danger is literally the middle name of the 4-day-old Lampard twins. Australians Billie and Ridley were given the middle name by their playful parents so later in life they could make the joke: "Danger is my middle name." Mr Lampard said: "I've always wanted to be able to say it myself." Mrs Lampard says her husband's idea has had a mixed reception among family and friends. (Source: News.com.au.)
* * *
A study suggests that when people feel they have been morally virtuous by saving the planet through their purchases of organic baby food, for example, they feel they have licence to indulge in selfish and morally questionable behaviour. Because they are being good with their green choices they can behave less ethically in other areas of their life. The study authors argue that people who wear what they call the "halo of green consumerism" are less likely to be kind to others, and more likely to cheat and steal. Like when Al Gore was caught running up huge power bills at home at the same time as lecturing on the need to save electricity. (Source: The Guardian)
* * *
Brian of Birkdale has his own experience with a Navman's pronunciation of Maori words. "I giggle every time I approach Pupuke Rd in Takapuna because the Navman pronounces it as if it was describing an ill person going at both ends."
* * *
Shocking service at a fancy Takapuna restaurant, declares a reader. "The manager was serving us, including drinks, cutlery and our meals. After we had eaten, I tried to get the attention of a staff member, to no avail, so then politely asked the manager if he could help us clear our table. As he started clearing it he asked me if I wanted him to shine my shoes as well."
* * *
Strange Product: Slashed Army T-shirt. "Go for stylishly dishevelled cool in Balmain's olive green distressed detail cotton T-shirt. Work the runway look by teaming this statement staple with cargo pants and ankle boots for a luxe spin on utility chic," reads the description on Net-a-Porter.com. Oh, and the cost? US$1600. Anyone else want to buy it, put a new hole in it, then return it and see if they notice?
* * *
Last word: The Westmere reader who raised the matter of unused phone books says the idea that "741,000 New Zealanders don't want their phone books" is slightly misleading, since books are delivered to households, not individuals. But working on the basis that there are a million households, the 17 per cent who don't want the books makes 170,000 wasted books. Add to that the thousands delivered to workplaces where they clutter storerooms and you must be talking 250,000 minimum. Is there any other business that produces a quarter million surplus units each year - and keeps doing so? Is anybody at Yellow awake?"
* * *
See today's Herald cartoon
* * *
Today's Webpick: A contestant on America's Next Top Model falls and then gets hit by giant pendulum on the runway. Go here.
Follow Ana Samways on Twitter
