Family unfriendly museum
A visitor to the Auckland War Memorial Museum was refused entrance with her nappy bag/handbag. "The ticket woman got the manager who confirmed it ... yep, too big. When I said I had nothing else to carry my stuff in (and that it had my son's spare shorts and undies and a drink bottle and snack) I was told I wasn't allowed to take this food or drink into the museum. Apparently this includes baby bottles! Their website stipulates no eating or drinking but it doesn't say you can't carry food or drink. And it says they are able to refuse bags at their discretion, although they specifically ban backpacks only. Did they think I was going to let my son smear food all over the glass cabinetry? A nappy bag is not a Kathmandu backpack. I was not going to hide a stuffed moa in it, or knock over a marble statue. Parents of small children have enough difficulties without policies that ensure they have a difficult visit. Get your act together museum management and stop harassing mothers."
Merry crim-bo
Criminals in a Canadian city will be receiving an unexpected Christmas card this year ... from the police chief. The card being sent out this week to "prolific offenders, property offenders, and persons known for drug and gang activity" features the Abbotsford police chief wearing a Santa suit (and a bulletproof vest and helmet) and packing automatic weapons. "Which list will you be on next year?" it asks, and inside there's a number to call if the card manages to inspire any of the recipients to switch over to the "nice" list and turn his or her life around.
Driving instructor fail
