Labour MP Clare Curran blogs at Red Alert.co.nz about a political picture, drawn by a 7-year-old and given to her by the child's mother. Curran describes the child as "highly politically aware and bamboozles her mother withthe questions she asks". Fortunately this commenter sets her straight on why involving kids in politics is always a bad idea: "You're kidding right? You should know that at 7 most children mirror their parents' or their teachers' attitudes. You might not think it is bad, but I take special care not to pollute my son's attitudes with my political views. Teach them right and wrong ie good values and leave the rest of the indoctrination stuff out of it ... and don't try to tell us that a 7-year-old has any understanding of politics (most adults have enough trouble understanding it all)." (Hat tip David Farrar at Kiwiblog.co.nz)
Pakistan butts in on texters
Pakistan's telecom watchdog has banned 1500 "rude" words (ranging from the f-word and "flatulence" to "pocket pool" and "quickie") and blocking all text messages using these offensive words. Officials from the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority have come up with more than 50 phrases using the f-word and 17 involving "butt". Among the more printable terms are "strap-on", "beat your meat", "crotch rot" and "love pistol". The officials' flair for the task was apparent, with prohibition embracing more figurative language, such as "flogging the dolphin". (Source: The Guardian)
Students at a Toronto school are being told to leave their soccer balls at home. The principal of Earl Beatty Public School banned the balls this week after a parent recently suffered a concussion from being hit in the head with a soccer ball.
Love, a gift that keeps on giving
"Seems like people need to get over gift-giving and be grateful for what they've got," writes a reader. "The Mrs and I gave up on gifts years ago, and instead spend special days together - phones, TVs and computers off. Perhaps the key to our long and fulfilling relationship."
Help gran's mail get through
Emma writes: "I am seeking a Miss Nicola (Nicky) Macpherson as I have a Christmas and Birthday card from her Granny and Grandad in Scotland - delivered to the wrong address in Mt Eden. Can anyone help?"
