Maori

"The Eyes Of Fear" (Bill Hicks)

"The eyes of fear want you to put bigger locks on your doors, buy guns, close yourself off. The eyes of love instead see all of us as one. Here's what we can do to change the world, right now, to a better ride. Take all that money we spend on weapons and defenses each year and instead spend it feeding and clothing and educating the poor of the world, which it would pay for many times over, not one human being excluded, and we could explore space, together, both inner and outer, forever, in peace." - Bill Hicks

Some Facts On Handgun & Firearm Violence

“Guns in the home are the primary source of firearms that teenagers use to kill themselves in the U.S.”

StopHandgunViolence.com:

5 children were killed every day in gun related accidents and suicides committed with a firearm, from 1994-1998. An average of 5 children were killed every day in gun related accidents and suicides committed with a firearm, from 1994-1998. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, National Injury Mortality Statistics, 1994-1998

40% of American households with children have guns. Peter Hart Research Associates Poll, July 1999 22 million children live in homes with at least one firearm. 34% of children in the United States (representing more than 22 million children in 11 million homes) live in homes with at least one firearm. In 69 percent of homes with firearms and children, more than one firearm is present. The RAND Corporation, "Guns in the Family: Firearm Storage Patterns in U.S. Homes with Children," March 2001, an analysis of the 1994 National Health Interview Survey and Year 2000 objectives supplement. Also published as Schuster et al., "Firearm Storage Patterns in U.S. Homes with Children," American Journal of Public Health 90(4): 588-594, April 2000

A gun in the home is 22 times more likely to be used in an unintentional shooting, a criminal assault or homicide, or an attempted or completed suicide than to be used to injure or kill in self-defense. Journal of Trauma, 1998

NewYorkTimes.com:

In 1992, handguns were used in the murders of 33 people in Britain, 36 in Sweden, 97 in Switzerland, 128 in Canada, 13 in Australia, 60 in Japan and 13,220 in the United States. Those are the latest annual statistics available. They were released yesterday by Handgun Control Inc. and the Center to Prevent Handgun Violence.

Here is some other information about guns and violence in America: In 1991 -- just one year -- 38,317 people were killed by firearms in homicides, suicides and accidents. That's more than 100 people a day. It's also more than the total number of Americans killed in battle in the Korean War.

A new handgun is produced every 20 seconds.

WashingtonCeaseFire.org:

Who is a Victim of Firearm Violence?

Firearm Victims By Race

White

Fatalities: 21,442 / Rate: 8.79 / 100,000

Injuries: 16,110 / Rate: 8.06 / 100,000

African-American

Fatalities: 7,448 / Rate: 18.30/100,000

Injuries: 29,951 / Rate: 69.85 / 100,000

Hispanic

Fatalities: 3,278 / Rate: 7.46 / 100,000

Injuries: 9,694 / Rate: 24.45 / 100,000

Asian/Pacific-Islander

Fatalities: 398 / Rate: 2.79 / 100,000

Injuries: n/a

Native American

Fatalities: 218 / Rate: 8.48 / 100,000

Injuries: n/a

Victims by Gender

Males:

Fatalities: 25,498 / Rate: 17.66 / 100,000

Injuries: 57,730 / Rate: 39.96 / 100,000

Females:

Fatalities: 4,071 / Rate: 2.73 / 100,000

Injuries: 6,557 / Rate: 4.40 / 100,000

KQED.org:

Manufacturing Every 8 seconds, a new firearm is made in America. (ATF, "Commerce in Firearms in the US", 2000 Report)

Over a twenty-five year period, from 1972 to 1997, over 59 million handguns were manufactured in the U.S.

The top 5 gun manufacturing states during that time:

1)Connecticut - 25,472,564

2) Massachusetts - 18,360,915

3) New York - 7,119,769

4) California - 6,337,544

5) Florida - 2,334,206

According to a data analysis by the Violence Prevention Center, just 3 states (top 3 listed above) accounted for 75 percent of all the domestic firearms manufactured in America during that 25 year period of time.

Also, the VPC notes that states with rigid gun control laws such as Massachusetts, California, and New York, were actually the leading makers of firearms. ((Violence Policy Center, "Firearms Production in America 1972 - 1997, A State by State Breakdown", 2000)

Did You Know?

Every hour in America, four people are killed by firearms. (Centers for Disease Control)

A gun in your home makes it three times more likely that you or someone you care about will be murdered by a family member or intimate partner (Kellerman,New England Journal of Medicine v329, n.15 1993)

Gun violence is the second-leading cause of injury-related fatalities in the US after car accidents. In Alaska, Maryland and Nevada as well as D.C., firearm death rates in 1998 exceeded those for car accidents. (CDC & Natnl. Vital Statistics Report, 1999)

One million Americans have died in firearm homicides, suicides, and unintentional shootings since 1962. (Fatal Firearm Injuries in the United States 1962-1994. Violence Surveillance Summary Series, No. 3, 1997; Deaths: Final Data for 1995- 1997, National Vital Statistics Report)

State/Local Contrary to popular opinion, gun violence isn't endemic only to certain cities or neighborhoods - it can happen anywhere.

All The Latest Transfer Gossip

Transfer speculation is rife at the moment, as clubs all over Europe pursue new signings for the forthcoming season, which for English Premier League clubs begins on the 14th August. As we speak, some of the rumoured potential player signings have more substance than others. However there is no doubt, the transfer merry go-round is in full swing as we speak!

Manchester City, Valencia, Celtic, Real Madrid, Barcelona, Werder Bremen, Manchester United, Bolton, AC Milan, Benfica, Cardiff, Stoke, Roma, Liverpool, Tottenham, Lyon, Arsenal, Lorient, Wolfsburg, Everton, Strasbourg, Hertha Berlin, LA Galaxy, Genoa, Panathinaikos, Paris St.Germain, Chelsea, Aston Villa, West Ham, Bayer Leverkusen, West Brom, Crystal Palace, Ipswich Town, Bristol Rovers, Watford, Plymouth and Carlisle are all currently caught up in transfer gossip.

Is your Club involved?

Here is a round up:

Manchester City have confirmed a deal has been reached to sign David Silva from Valencia on a five-year contract and he will officially join the club after his involvement in the World Cup with Spain is over. The transfer fee is reported to be in the region of £25 million.
City have also been heavily linked with Barcelona’s defensive midfielder Yaya Toure it is reported that Toure is 'poised' to sign for the Eastlands club - Skysports.com

Roy Hodgson is keen to make midfielder Joe Cole, recently released by Chelsea his first signing for Liverpool, once he takes over the reigns at Anfield - caughtoffside.com

Joe Cole is set to be offered £3m a year to join AC Milan after being released by Chelsea - The Sun

Tottenham Hotspur look set to beat Arsenal to the signing of Joe Cole - Daily Mirror

Standard Liege and Serbian international sriker Milan Jovanovic has reportedly agreed a three-year deal to join Liverpool - clickliverpool.com

Arsenal are close to completing the transfer of centre-back Laurent Koscielny from French club Lorient for £8.5 million as a replacement for William Gallas who has failed to agree a new deal - The Sun

Mesut Ozil's agent Reza Fazeli says the Germany playmaker is focused on the World Cup after being linked with a move to Barcelona. Reports had suggested that Barcelona would offer Werder Bremen a transfer of Ozil that would include an exchange for Alexander Hleb and Henrique Adriano Buss - Skysports.com

German side Wolfsburg have stunned Manchester City by demanding £50m for striker Edin Dzeko. The Bosnian is reportedly keen to move to Eastlands - Daily Mail

Manchester City are also keen to recruit Los Angeles Galaxy forward Landon Donovan, who had a successful spell on loan at Everton last season and was impressive for the United States at the World Cup in South Africa - Daily Mirror

Reports in Italy are linking Tottenham, Arsenal, Manchester United and Chelsea with AC Milan's Klass-Jan Huntelaar and Mathieu Flamini. Milan are said to be keen to raise £40million for a bid for Barcelona's Zlatan Ibrahimovic.

Manchester United look set to lure Panathinaikos midfielder Sotiris Ninis to Old Trafford in a deal believed to be worth £9.6m - Daily Mirror

United are also keen on signing Paris St.Germain midfielder Stéphane Sessègnon, and are willing to offer Brazilian midfielder Anderson as part of the deal - caughtoffside.com

Aston Villa are maintaining their interest in Arsenal striker Eduardo, who is keen to move from the Emirates - Daily Mail

Villa are also believed to be chasing West Ham midfielder Scott Parker and Bayer Leverkusen playmaker Tranquillo Barnetta and could be prepared to part with £14m for the pair - Daily Mirror

Cardiff City and Wales midfielder Joe Ledley held talks with Stoke City about a possible move to the Britannia Stadium. The 23-year-old who is out of contract with the Championship club. Celtic and Roma are among the clubs also linked with Ledley - BBC Sport

Bolton are confident of beating Benfica to the signing of Real Madrid's Spanish under-21 defender Marcos Alonso and striker Rodrigo Moreno.
Bolton are closing in on the capture of Brazilian striker Ilan, who is available on a Bosman deal after being released by West Ham. The Trotters also want fellow free agent Juan Roman Riquelme following the midfielder's release by Boca Juniors - Daily Mirror

Everton have bid £900,000 for Strasbourg striker Magaye Gueye and are also keen on signing German defender Arne Freidrich, who is reportedly available at a knockdown fee of £2m following his club Hertha Berlin's relegation from the Bundesliga - Daily Mail

Genoa President Enrico Preziosi expects to make the signing of Luca Toni official next week. Toni is a free agent after Bayern Munich released him earlier this summer - Footballitalia.net

Crystal Palace have completed the signing of David Wright following the defender's release by Ipswich Town - Skysports.com

West Brom are set for talks with Frederic Piquionne on Wednesday after Lyon accepted a £1m-plus offer for the striker, who spent last season on loan at Portsmouth - Daily Mirror

Bristol Rovers have completed the signing of left-back Gary Sawyer from Plymouth Argyle - BBC Sport

Watford are set to sign Carlisle United starlet Tom Aldred - Skysports.com

I'm Off Again!

PS: No I'm not going for an HP event. But those in the know will understand why that particular thumbdrive is there. :-D

Beating The Dead Horse Of Right-Wing Racism

I’m sure by this point that most people who are political types have already formed an opinion of the matter of tea party racism and to the larger issue: if the Republican political strategy includes pandering to racist Americans.

I repeat again and again, too little avail, that not all tea party members are de facto racists.

I found it very unfortunate that so many on progressive side of politics were so quick to call Rand Paul a “racist” for expressing a standard libertarian point of view in regards to the Civil Rights Bill and the ADA. (Private enterprise craps rainbows is the short version of this pure libertarianism ideology.) Those perspectives are not racism, though they do tend to excite the racists out there. This alone, it is vital to point out, is not enough to place a person on the wrong side of the core issue of racial sensitivity or a lack thereof.

It is very easy to throw out a label, like “socialist” or “commie pinko,” but it’s harder to back it up. That was frustrating to see the left-wing doing the same unintelligent labeling based on ignorance that the right-wing has honed to a daily art.

I hear the sentiment more and more that people want to do away with labeling, but I only want to do away with all the negative labeling. I don’t see how we can escape the principal of using labels on groups of people as we so often do in politics. Something must have a name to become a movement, without a name to describe whatever ideological bent we are talking about it would be impossible to even discern accurately between them all.

The labels we choose to recognize ourselves by, and attribute to ourselves, are obviously the labels by which we wish to use and have function for us. I feel that we ever get beyond labels it will because all people stopped using them, and not before.

Then we come to issue of the dreaded label: racist. I’ve never been one to take away any fine glory from calling another person racist, but I also cannot simply remain silent as I witness specific cases over and over again.

There are many fine conservatives and even honest tea party-types out there, but they are the most hushed and pushed into the corner minority of the right-wing I’ve ever seen. Wherever these people be, I hear very little from them or of them.

***

My first experiences with the tea party were seeing a small protest with one sign reading:

“It‘s the White House, not the Black House”

No n-words, no overt racist slurs, no neo-Nazi symbols … just this kind of rhetoric. I found it to be racist in nature, in my personal opinion at the time.

Now Janeane Garofalo was downright mean on Keith Olbermann’s show, but I won’t link that video or repeat any of that here. But did she speak intelligently about the tea party with Rosie O’Donnell so I find it likely she was playing to the YouTube crowd with that one.

My complaints are more to the inclusion of fringe groups known for racism like the John Birch Society in CPAC as to the conservative side and the acceptance of “Birthers” (for lack of a better term) into the tea party side. These actions, and the glorifying of characters like Beck and Limbaugh who incite racial hatred for profit, amount to a very “toxic stew” to borrow a bit of their language.

I never said everyone right-wing was a racist, what a wild claim that would be! I’ve said people who did specific things, like write a sign about the “Black House” or suddenly find a love for the term “commie-socialist” (which makes zero sense by the way), are looking like they are motivated by white racism.

Am I supposed to say “in my opinion” like every other sentence or something?

We just has this opinion about comparing Obama to Hitler passed around and discussed like it was rational by Sara Palin and other far right extremists. Helen Thomas expressed an opinion in a manner I found distasteful and crass, but everyone seemed to forget she is was an opinion journalist.

Though how we state our opinions is important, I realize this well.

So I avoid the term ’teabaggers’ as much as possible (recently) and make a strong effort to declare what I present in the manner of an opinion be understood as an opinion.

But without getting too twisted into a pretzel here:

We all have to remember that you don’t get to control what other person’s opinion of your opinion is.

I personally believe the problems here are tied exactly to that, like the days of Bush Derangement Syndrome. Making statements in a vacuum, from any side of politics, is just getting really annoying.

I’ll back it up, we can have a Constitution quote-off over SB1070 or a Wiki-battle over Southern Strategy Republican racism. I do it all the time, it’s not a new thing it just happens in lightning speed transactions these days instead of “let me go home and grab a few books and we’ll pick this up later.”

I find myself desiring an Edward R. Murrow like figure to appear in our times … we desperately lack that kind of brutal and much needed honesty today. Perhaps more than ever.

***

(No horses were harmed in the course of this posting.)

BP Oil Spill: Kindra Arnesen Venice LA Needs to Evacuate

Missing! - Has Anyone Seen Zakumi, the Official World Cup Mascot?

For the last four decades the FIFA World Cups have had unique mascots for the different tournaments and the tradition continues this year with Zakumi.

Zakumi is the official mascot for the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

The green-haired leopard symbolizes the hopes and dreams of South Africa and the African continent through his self-confidence, pride, hospitality, social skills and warm-heartedness. He is lively, fervent, jovial, and a go-getter. He also loves football.

According to the official International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) website - "one thing is for sure, Zakumi will be first on the dancefloor and last off it at the biggest party in the world - the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa."

How Zakumi Got His Name:
Zakumi’s name comes from ZA, which is the international code for South Africa, and ‘kumi’ which means ‘ten’ in various African languages, making him a truly African mascot who will be the best host to all the fans visiting South Africa for the exciting football event.

The Importance of Zakumi’s Birth Date:
Although Zakumi was presented to the world on 22 September 2008, his birthdate is 16 June 1994, causing him to turn 16 in June 2010. This is an important day for South Africa, now celebrated annually as Youth Day, because it saw the beginning of the Soweto youth uprising as they protested against apartheid. The year 1994 is also an important year as it marks the first democratic vote for all people in the nation. Zakumi, therefore represents South Africa’s hopes and dreams.

However with the tournament into its third week I have yet to speak to anybody who has actually seen this character out and about performing his hosting duties - whether it be in person at a game, on or around the streets of any stadium, on billboards, through the media, or simply on our television screens!

Have YOU seen Zakumi?
Does Zakumi really exist?
Perhaps Zakumi has been abducted or kidnapped, and is being held to ransom!

If you have spotted Zakumi let me know when and where?

The Latest World Cup News

After yesterday's final group games which saw Spain, Portugal, Brazil and Chile book their places in the second round of the 2010 World Cup, we now move straight into the knock-out phase of the tournament.
Today sees Uruguay up against South Korea in Port Elizabeth, whilst the USA take on Ghana in Rustenburg in the late kick-off.

Uruguay are expected to stick with the same line-up that beat Mexico 1-0 in their final group game. Coach Oscar Tabarez may be tempted to bring in defender Diego Godin in place of Mauricio Victorino, who is one booking away from suspension, as are fellow defenders Diego Lugano and Jorge Fucile - BBC Sport

South Korea coach Huh Jung-Moo could drop fullback Cha Du-Ri, who was at fault for Nigeria's opening goal in their 2-2 draw, with Kim Dong-Jin favourite to replace him.
One booking away from suspension are midfielders Lee Chung-Yong and Kim Nam-Il, along with striker Yeom Ki-Hun - BBC Sport

The United States welcome the return of Robbie Findley from suspension after he missed the Algeria victory thanks to two yellow cards picked up in the opening two matches.
Replacing Findley in attack for the game in Pretoria was Herculez Gomez, however with DaMarcus Beasley and Edson Buddle also both available, coach Bob Bradley has options as to who will partner Jozy Altidore up front.
Midfielder Maurice Edu is likely to retain a starting berth after coming in for Jose Francisco Torres - skysports.com

Ghana could be without centre-back Isaac Vorsah for the knockout encounter as the defender struggles to win his fitness battle. Vorsah missed the draw against Australia through injury and was hoping to be in contention for the loss to Germany, however Serbian coach Milovan Rajevac was forced to start him on the bench.
There was better news for fellow first-choice defender John Mensah, who also returned from the sidelines to complete 90 minutes, meaning Ghana may field an unchanged starting XI.
Midfielder Sulley Muntari may come in for Prince Tagoe, despite a 'reported bust-up' with his coach, should Rajevax decide to tinker with his system - skysports.com

The clash between arch-rivals Germany and England rates as one of the glamour fixtures in world football, as both teams gear up for Sunday's last 16 meeting in Bloemfontein.
England's Jamie Carragher could return after suspension at the heart of England's defence replacing Matthew Upson.
Striker Miroslav Klose should return to the German starting line-up after suspension with Cacau making way. Toni Kroos may start in midfield as Bastian Schweinsteiger is doubtful with a thigh muscle injury - Fourfourtwo.com

Brazil will welcome back midfield pair Kaka and Elano for Monday's last 16 encounter against fellow South Americans Chile, in Johannesburg. Kaka served a one-match ban against Portugal while Elano was ruled out through injury - Fifa.com

Spain midfielder Xavi Alonso is a doubt for the World Cup round of 16 showdown with Iberian neighbours Portugal after suffering a sprained ankle in their win over Chile - Goal.com

Japan striker Shinji Okazaki has warned Paraguay that they have "nothing to lose" as they bid for a historic place in the World Cup quarter-finals on Tuesday.
The Samurai Blue helped Japan to victories over Cameroon and Denmark in Group E to seal their place in the last 16 for the first time ever on foreign soil. Okazaki opened his World Cup account when he came off the bench to score the clincher in the 3-1 win over the Danes on Thursday.
Okazaki's first World Cup goal came as a relief for the 24-year-old, who finished as the world's top international scorer for 2009 with 15 goals. Since the turn of the year, however, he has struggled to match that form, but after getting off the mark on Thursday he is determined to add to his tally in South Africa - Fifa.com

Sven-Goran Eriksson has refused to confirm where his future lies after stepping down as Ivory Coast manager.
His team crashed out of the World Cup in the opening stages after failing to progress from Group G, and now that the Swede's short term deal as coach has ended, he has been linked with a return to club management - Goal.com

Mine Eyes Have Seen The Glory

Now is the time, to make real the promises of democracy.

Now is the time, to rise from the dark and desolate valley of segregation to the sunlit path of racial justice.

Now is the time, to lift our nation from the quicksand of racial injustice to the solid rock of brotherhood.

Now is the time!

I have a dream...

Every valley shall be exalted.

I have a dream...

Every hill and mountain shall be made low.

I have a dream...

My children will not be judged by the color of their skin. [but upon the content of their character]

This is our home.

Let us rise up tonight...

I've been to the mountain top, and I've looked over and seen the promised land.

I may not get their with you, but I want you to know that we, as a people, will get to the promised land.

I'm not worried about anything, I'm not fearing any man.

Mine eyes have seen the glory of the coming of the Lord!

***

The battle against racism and prejudice has changed form; become a game of innuendos and conspiracy theories rather than blatant slurs of days past.

But we can reach the promised land. We have come far since the days of these fateful words that resound with us still.

We have elected a black man to the highest office in the United States, we have forced openly racist elements to the fringe of society where they always belonged.

But these are not the days that the lies and fabrications about the first black president and over those coming here to seek a better life from Mexico will come to end.

These are the days that such bile is standard for the same people who sought to silence Rev. King and continue to abuse and distort his message of non-violence and anti-war stances for their own purposes.

But if you believe you may stand aside, may be allowed to ignore the progression of injustice and those who help maintain its veil from the world, and ever see the promised land for yourself or your children or their children ... you would be gravely mistaken.

Those who stand now in the mighty echo of Rev. King and the Civil Rights Movement must see that failing to carry the torch that lights up injustice is to do an injury and show disrespect to all that was fought for up until this point.

If this country will stand idly by while a white television broadcaster calls a black president "racist" ... then we are further from the promised land than I ever imagined.

If this country will stand idly by while white lawmakers establish fascist racial profiling laws upon those of only brown skin living in Arizona ... then we are further still from the promised land.

The dream has yet to fade into the darkness.

It will take the truly righteous rising up once more, rediscovering our lost value for honesty and truth in the dead of this wretched night.

"Let freedom ring!"

Another Ip Man movie? That's just not hip, man.

The Legend Is Born: Ip Man
葉問前傳
Not a review.
I know what you're thinking.
"ANOTHER Ip Man movie?"
"So soon after the Ip Man 2???"
"Wah really shameless hor?"
"Samore no Donnie Yen, WTF!!??!!??"



But this is more than jsut another copycat.
It's a prequel, for one.
And it's got IP CHUN in it for gods sake.
That old man's really got it.
That fight he has with Ip Man inside a medicine shop is AWESOME.
His acting? Er, not so awesome.
But he's IP CHUN for god's sake!



Oh, that Dennis To kid not too bad.
Acting a bit kayu.
But his fighting is bloody good.
World champion Wing Chun master ok don't play play.
His Wing Chun is actually BETTER than Donnie Yen's!
He was in Ip Man 2, BTW.
He was Sammo Hung's student, the one with misai.



Not bad, this movie also got Yuen Biao
He looks damn old now though.
But that fella still can fight.
Sammo Hung also in it.
But only for a while.
But he fights Yuen Biao! Awesome!



Also got that Jin Shan Zhao guy from Ip Man 1 & 2
The one that got beaten up by Donnie with a feather duster.
Here he's some step-brother of Ip Man.
Tipu one lah, Ip Man never had a step-brother.
The story is half true half fake wan.
Make it more drama konon.



But who cares, the fighting is AWESOME.
When they're not fighitng it's a bit boring.
But when they start fighitng its pretty awesome.
I liked the fighting here more than in Ip Man 2.
But movie -wise, not so great lor.



So now what? Wong Kar Wai's Ip Man?
More Ip Man movies?
Ip Man video games? Board games?
Movies where he fights giant human centipedes?
(Yes I'm looking at you, Wong Fe Hong)
Enough already!
Too much Ip Man makes him not Hip, Man.

Could a Simple Chemistry Lesson be at the Heart of a Winning Formula for England at the World Cup?

=

AIM:

To win a football match, by way of scoring more goals than the opposing side, and in doing so by keeping within the laws of the game.

APPARATUS:

a) 16 players (11 of whom must only be on the field of play at the start of the game)
b) Management team + a bench
c) Matching shirts + shorts + socks (players must provide their own footwear)
d) Seeded grass area with the appropriate markings in white paint
e) Two standard sized goals with netting
f) One official 'Jabulani' adidas ball
g) Flags on sticks
h) One referee + whistle + watch + coloured cards
i) Two assistant referees + flags
j) One further official + display board
k) Crowd of paying spectators (optional)

METHOD:

Manager:

1/ Pick one goalkeeper, 4 defenders, 3 or 4 midfield players and 2 or 3 strikers, up to a maximum of 11 players. There is no limit to how many players you can pick from any one club.

2/ Use a tactical formation familiar to the squad selected for the tournament. We shall call this 'Plan A.'
Do not be afraid to experiment if necessary.

3/ Prepare for different scenarios on the training pitch to accommodate even the unlikeliest of events. Remember practice makes perfect

4/ Have a 'Plan B' in case Plan A is not working.

5/ Name your starting XI more than two hours before kick-off. For example, tell them over breakfast (Continental or English style) on the day of a game that starts at 3pm.

6/ Be open with YOUR players. Express your opinions and thoughts to them, and in turn allow them to convey their views and share with you any underlying issues they may have. Bond with them as if they were your family.

7/ At the end of the day do NOT forget YOU are the boss!

Players:

1/ Once the game has begun, pass the ball to your fellow players (those in the same coloured shirts as yourself), rather than to the opponents.

2/ Move the ball in a forward direction whenever possible.

3/ Continue to play the ball back and forth to your team-mates until the final movement of the ball results in the (whole of the) ball crossing a white line painted between two upright sticks 12 yards apart. This is called a goal!

4/ Do your utmost to stop the opposition from doing likewise (legally of course).

5/ After a goal is scored YOU may then run around and celebrate in whatever fashion floats YOUR boat. Be warned - do NOT remove YOUR shirt in celebration or jump into the crowd. These are law breaking offences and could also result in injury. However YOU may perform acrobatics, themed dance routines, kiss, hug, point, cup your ear and shake your booty if you so wish.

6/ Remember a WAG is NOT for life, so sharing a WAG is at the owners discretion. Do NOT do to someone else what YOU would not like done to yourself. Be polite and always ask (JT) first!

RESULT:

Not known at the time of writing, as kick-off is still some 15 hours away. However the bookmakers odds are as follows:

England to win 4/9
Match Drawn 10/3
Slovenia to win 15/2

(Odds supplied courtesy of Betfred)

CONCLUSION:

An England win and they qualify for a place in the last 16.

Any other result and the express jet will be fuelled and ready to transport the 'prima donnas' to a safe house for their own protection, and a brown envelope containing a document labelled 'P45' will be winging its way to the Italian, Mr. 'not so fabio' Capello, c/o The FA, the governing body of association football in England.


Any questions???

Gay Pot Smoking Hippies & Lady Gaga Shakedowns

The market value of pot would do down, down, down.

If you legalized it, and supersized it.

Right now, now, now!

$4,000 an ounce.

That's way too much.

$400 an ounce.

That's ten times the blunts!

Don't fuck with the Gaga...

Elton John: "I know, he's a racist homophobe but I needed the money!"

You think you're weird, girl, but I'm weirder than you.

Let me tell of the weird things that I like to do:

Yesterday I went to church and made out with a nun, then I went up on the roof and stared into the sun.

Ouch!

(Don't miss Ke$ha's intervention either.)

All The Latest Transfer Gossip

With the World Cup in full swing, the greatest football tournament on earth has put all the players involved in the 'shop window,' giving club managers both here and abroad further opportunity to monitor any prospective transfer targets for the new season, or even unearth some new gems.
Meanwhile plenty of other players not featuring in the World Cup are also being pursued - as clubs aim to strengthen their respective squads in time for the start of next season.

Real Madrid, Liverpool, Palermo, Inter Milan, Arsenal, Fiorentina, Manchester City, Manchester United, West Ham, Roma, Panathinaikos, Everton, Birmingham City, Wolves, Fulham, Hull, Nantes, Aston Villa, Bolton, Blackburn, Olympique Marseille, Rapid Vienna and Al Jazeera Abu Dhabi are all caught up in transfer gossip as we speak.

Is your Club involved?

Here is a round up:

Manchester United have set their sights on Inter Milan midfielder and Real Madrid target Wesley Sneijder. The Red Devils are planning to approach the reigning UEFA Champions League champions with an offer of around 24 million Euros for the 26-year old Dutch international, even though he is not for sale - footballpress.net

Real Madrid want Liverpool to drop their valuation of Steven Gerrard as they try to finalise a move for the England midfielder. Liverpool are reluctant to sell the 30-year-old but are currently holding out for £30m. Real Madrid have reportedly told Liverpool that they are only willing to spend £20m on Gerrard and have inquired about Roma's Italy international Daniele de Rossi as an alternative - Daily Mail

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson is lining up a shock bid for Manchester City defender Micah Richards, who has been starved of first-team opportunities and is rated at about £12m - Caught Offside

Birmingham City are ready to rekindle their interest in Liverpool's Ryan Babel. City tried to sign Babel during the January transfer window, but failed to agree a deal with Liverpool. Blues boss Alex McLeish is thought to be a big admirer of the Dutchman and is ready to revive his attempts to lure him to St.Andrews - skysports.com

Arsenal are interested in Fiorentina midfielder Riccardo Montolivo. A World Cup starter for Italy, the 25-year-old has spent the last five seasons at La Viola - Caught Offside

A number of Premier League sides are keen on bringing former Arsenal ace Gilberto Silva back to England. Silva, who has impressed during Brazil's first two games at the World Cup, could be on the move this summer. The 33-year-old is currently plying his trade at Panathinaikos, but the Greek club could decide to offload the midfielder to ease their financial problems. The likes of Fulham, Blackburn, Everton and Liverpool are all thought to be monitoring Gilberto's situation at Panathinaikos - skysports.com

Wolves are set to sign Hull City winger Stephen Hunt for £3m this week and are closing in on a £2m deal for Senegalese midfielder Guirane N'Daw, who plays for Nantes - The Daily Mirror

West Ham midfielder Valon Behrami will meet with the club after the World Cup to discuss his future. Serie A outfit Palermo are thought to be interested in the 25-year old Swiss international, but his agent Alessandro Beltrami believes the Hammers do not want to sell someone who they regard as a key player - skysports.com

Aston Villa will try to persuade Martin Petrov to join them ahead of Bolton after last-ditch talks. Blackburn have also offered terms to the Bulgaria winger, who is a free agent after being released by Manchester City - Daily Mail

Blackburn boss Sam Allardyce has his eyes on Croatia striker Nikica Jelavic and wants the Rapid Vienna star to play alongside the Ewood Park outfit's Croatian frontman Nikola Kalinic - The Daily Mirror

Out-of-contract Arsenal defender Mikael Silvestre is very close to agreeing terms with UAE side Al Jazeera Abu Dhabi, who are reportedly offering the 32-year-old an annual salary of £4 million - imscouting.com

Olympique Marseille are poised to sign Brazilian and former Liverpool left-back Fabio Aurelio on a free transfer - footballpress.net

`-` pretty american model holly madison `

The Latest World Cup News

After terrific results so far in this World Cup for most of Latin America's teams, Paraguay hope to keep the roll going against Slovakia in Sunday's first game in the quest for a second round place.
The South Americans have not passed the second stage in seven attempts but are buoyed with self-belief after wins over big guns Brazil and Argentina in the qualifiers, and a creditable 1-1 draw with world champions Italy in their opening game - Reuters

Just 15 days after undergoing surgery on a broken arm, Didier Drogba is set to start tonight for the Ivory Coast against Brazil, and that would be a huge boost for a side that has already taken a point off Portugal.
The Chelsea striker made a difference when he came on late in the 0-0 draw and Brazil, having been stretched by North Korea, will be aware of his threat in this most unpredictable of World Cups.
Brazil could keep faith with the side that won 2-1 against North Korea ahead of the final game, against Portugal - Telegraph.co.uk

Paul Le Guen insists he will not step down as Cameroon coach after they became the first nation to be knocked out of the World Cup.
The Indomitable Lions' hopes of reaching the second round are already over after suffering a 2-1 defeat by Denmark in Pretoria on Saturday - Skysports.com

The Netherlands and Denmark will both be missing key players when they face each other on Monday.
Bayern Munich winger Arjen Robben will definitely miss out for the Netherlands with a hamstring injury, while Arsenal striker Nicklas Bendtner is likely to be missing for Denmark with a groin problem - BBC Sport

Fabio Capello has warned his underperforming England side that he is prepared to get tough if necessary.The Italian has made it clear that he will make his selections based on form, meaning nobody is immune from the axe.
Two lacklustre showings in their opening Group C games at the 2010 World Cup have left Capello pondering sweeping changes.
Some difficult decisions may have to be made before the midweek encounter in Port Elizabeth, with the performances of too many players having fallen below the required standard.
Capello accepts as much and has informed those still feeding their feet that he is running out of patience.
The former AC Milan and Real Madrid is renowned for his no-nonsense approach to management and has revealed that he would not be afraid to drop any of his so-called stars against the Slovenians.
"No-one is untouchable, not in my mind," he said - Skysports.com

It is has been reported that France striker Nicolas Anelka has retired from international football.
Anelka was sent home from the World Cup squad on Saturday following a dressing-room bust-up with manager Raymond Domenech.
It is reported that the 31-year old directed a foul-mouthed tirade at Domenech during half-time of Thursday's 2-0 defeat to Mexico.
Anelka, capped 60 times accepted his exclusion and wished the team well, but it now appears he has called time on his international career.
A win over South Africa in their final group game may not be enough for France as they will still be eliminated if Mexico and Uruguay draw their match - Skysports.com

Honduras' three Palacios brothers are forever assured a place in the annals of the FIFA World Cup. They became the first ever trio of brothers to appear at the tournament after Jerry was given a late call-up by Honduras coach Reinaldo Rueda, as a replacement for the injured Julio Cesar de Leon. Jerry thus joined his two younger brothers, Jhony and Wilson, who were named in the original squad for South Africa 2010 - Fifa.com

The thought of Chile against Switzerland as a top-of-the-table clash in the same group as World Cup favourites Spain would have been inconceivable only a few days ago.
But both teams are in the unlikely position of joint Group H leaders after the Swiss stunned the Spaniards 1-0 and Chile beat Honduras by the same scoreline, to seal their first win at a World Cup in 48 years.
Although far from a mouth-watering matchup, Monday's encounter has taken on added significance that might just be enough to wake sleepy Port Elizabeth from its World Cup snooze.
The defeats for Spain and Honduras, who meet later on Monday in Johannesburg, means a win for either Switzerland or Chile would give them one foot in the next round. The winning side may be able to advance with a defeat in their final game - Reuters

Coach Bob Bradley and the USA team are putting the controversy of the tie against Slovenia behind them, with the focus switching to Wednesday's key match against Algeria.
USA coach Bob Bradley firmly believes his team's apparent game-winning goal against Slovenia in the 85th minute should not have been disallowed by referee Koman Coulibaly, who overnight became one of most well-known figures of this World Cup back in America.
Bradley said he watched and rewatched footage of the controversial call on Maurice Edu's close-range shot and did not see anything out of the ordinary pushing and shoving that goes on in the penalty area during a free kick. Instead of a dramatic 3-2 comeback victory, the United States had to settle for a 2-2 draw - Miamiherald.com

Ghana coach Milovan Rajevac declined to criticise his men for failing to kill off 10-man Australia in their 1-1 draw yesterday.
Harry Kewell was sent off for a first-half handball on the line, and although Ghana equalised from the spot, they could not find a winning goal.
But the result leaves the Black Stars needing only one point from their final Group D match to reach the last 16. Ghana, who play Germany on Wednesday, top the group with four points, one more than the Germans and Serbia.
Australia have one point and must beat Serbia to have any chance of progressing to the next phase - BBC Sport

Australia's Harry Kewell has been suspended for one match following his sending off for a deliberate handball during Friday's 1-1 draw against Ghana.
Kewell could have been handed a two-game ban, but Fifa's disciplinary committee opted not to impose a stiffer punishment on the ex-Liverpool player.
It means he will miss Wednesday's final Group D match against Serbia but will be available if Australia progress - BBC Sport

The Beer-Flavoured Carbonated Sparkling Water vs. The Balinese Hai.

While you're reading this, I'm probably wandering around the Beerfest Asia 2010 right now, sampling some of the finest beers in the world and having a ball of a time; while you're stuck in the office wishing you had a nice cold pint of beer in front of you right now.

Too bad! HAHAHA!

Anyway, I was in Bali last week, and the two most prominent beers there were Bintang and Bali-Hai. OF COURSE I tried them. DUH.



I found Bintang to be a little weak though. A quick check of the bottle label found a TINY print saying it contains less than 5.5% alcohol, which could mean anything from Shandy-like levels to well, 5.4%; which is pretty standard.

The taste was not bad, but I found it to be bloody gassy. I felt bloated after one or two, and after four or five, I still didn't feel a thing. It was like drinking a beer-flavoured carbonated sparkling water. (It's not as bad as my current vote for WORSE BEER EVER though...) I'd drink it only if I didn't have a choice, which brings me to...



Other than the rather unfortunate name (to a Malaysian, that is. "Mister you want to drink some of my Bali Hai?" oh dear.), the beer was actually pretty good. It had more flavor to it than Bintang, and it certainly had a lot more kick.

Funnily enough, the small bottle I had at a restaurant stated that it has 6% alcohol; but the big bottle I bought at a mini mart later had only 5.5% ABV. Hmmm... Still, it was a lot more satisfying to drink than Bintang, that's for sure... I just wish it had a better sounding name...

How To Tell The Difference Between Chillin' and Restin': A Pictorial Expert Guide

Back Wayne Rooney to crush Algeria - World Cup Betting News with Betfred

VERSUS

Following England's horror show against the USA, someone needs to step up and carry the flag for the Three Lions and could that man be Wayne Rooney.

Fabio Capello's men face a crucial match against Algeria in Cape Town on Friday.



The World Cup odds make them 2/9 to win the game, while the draw is 11/2 with Betfred and, according to team-mate Matthew Upson, Rooney is the man to fire England to victory.



Upson, who hopes to replace the injured Ledley King in the heart of England's defence, has seen Rooney in training over recent weeks and is confident the goals will come for the Manchester United forward.



Rooney has scored only once in eight internationals over the past year, but remains a 12/1 shot in the World Cup 2010 betting to win the Golden Boot. However, if he wants to be top scorer he will need to start finding the back of the net, starting on Friday.



Upson claimed that despite Rooney's recent disappointing international scoring record, there is no need for the striker to panic and "start thinking" about the problem.



"It will happen. Wayne's movement is great. He is a class player and he is totally gifted," the West Ham defender said.



"He just needs to relax, play his game and the goals will come because he is top draw."



England fans could have received a great boost with the confirmation from Capello that Gareth Barry is back from injury and will start the Algeria clash.



The balance of the England side had looked a little off during the draw with the USA, but the return of Barry could give Frank Lampard more chance to push forward which means 7/4 for him to score at anytime could be a good bet.



My Tip of the Weekend:



England should rediscover their goalscoring boots against a sloppy looking Algeria side, so the 3-0 at 13/2 with Betfred is my pick. Over 2.5 goals also looks attractive at 4/5.



Remaining Group C games:



Slovenia v USA - Friday 18th June, kick-off 3pm, live on the BBC.

England v Algeria - Friday 18th June, kick-off 7.30pm, live on ITV.

England v Slovenia - Wednesday 23rd June, kick-off 3pm, live on the BBC.

USA v Algeria - Wednesday 23rd June, kick-off 3pm, live on the BBC.



By Drew Swainston

(Guest writer from Betfred on behalf of Beer Footy and Birds!)

I'm Gonna Miss Them Toys. :-(

Toy Story 3.
Not a Review.
WELCOME BACK WOODY AND BUZZ!
And JESSE, BULLSEYE, REX!
And MR. & MRS. POTATOHEAD!
AND HAMM! AND SLINKY DOG!
AND the three green ALIENS!
OOOOOhhh. THE CLAAAAAW!



I watched the first two movies back to back just last month,
And I could watch them OVER AND OVER AGAIN.
Now I wanna watch ALL THREE movies over and over again!
HEck, after I watched this, I wanted to watch it IMMEDIATELY again!
Never mind How To Train a Dragon,
The hell with Shrek 4.
PIXAR WINS AGAIN!!!



After the movie I wanted to get the toys lor.
Yeah, I only got like, ONE Woody and Bullseye figure.
And the Woody & Buzz LEGO set.
But hor, damn expensive lor.
And too damn many Toy Story er.. toys these days.
To think when Pixar pitched the first movie,
NO ONE wanted to make toys for the movie.
(Except THinkway, of course)



The old friends were there!
Except for Wheezy, and Little Bo Peep. :-(
And the Bucket-O-Soldiers.
And the rest are either donated or kept away in the attic.
I wonder if my toys get annoyed that I keep them in boxes under my bed...



But got new toys too!
KEN was damn funny!
Lots-O Hugs Bear was... grrrrrrr.
The rest was a bit underused though.
Too many toys, too little time.
Except Big Baby.
Big Baby was scary. :-(



Ooooh! Is that a TOTORO??!!??? WOOT!
Ghibli tribute WTF!
And Buzz's er.. alternate modes was BRILLIANT.
(not the demo mode. That was annoying. as usual)
And Mr. Potato finally gets his moment to shine!
(or rather, flap around, and get scattered around)
And one more thing...
OOOOOOH... THE CLAAAAW...



Sigh, I'm gonna miss them toys.
Some parts were damn sad ok.
Especially when you think about how the characters have grown,
From Toy Story to Toy Story 2 to this movie.
I forgot how much I loved the movies,
Until I watched them during the 3D special screening



Speaking of 3D, Toy Story 3's isn't really that spectacular
It's great, but you don't HAVE To watch it in 3D
In fact, watch it in 2D for the first time
THEN watch it in 3D!
YES, I plan to watch it AGAIN.
AND AGAIN AND AGAIN.



Oh, BTW, don't go in late.
As usual, there's a Pixar Short!
This time it's Day And Night.
It's actually really really cool.
Not as funny as the past ones maybe,
But it's pretty amazing how they animated it
You have to watch it for yourself!



Also, the end credits also have some cool outtakes,
This movie overall gives good closure to the Toy Story franchise.
I hope they don't make more,
That'll only dilute the magic.
On to Cars 2 and Monsters Inc 2 now!
WOOT WOOT!
PIXAR RULESSSSSS!!!!!

"Shoes 4 Life" - You Can Help Make a Difference!

How many pairs of shoes do you own? 5, 10, 20.............more than 20?
Do you ever stop and think that there are millions of people in our world who don't have any shoes at all !

Well SoccerPro is at it again!

Like their 'Jerseys 4 Life' campaign earlier this year, this summer during the World Cup, SoccerPro has teamed up with the international shoe charity, Soles4Souls to bring us 'Shoes 4 Life'.

They are raising awareness of the fact that millions of people every day, many of them children, do not have shoes. Without shoes, walking long distances to schools or jobs is nearly impossible, and bare feet are prone to injury. By donating money to Shoes 4 Life, you can help make a step in the direction of ending this easily fixable problem.

One dollar sends one pair of shoes to a barefoot child or adult, and can help deliver much more: Hope!

SoccerPro is thanking everybody who helps in the movement by giving away some of their inventory. Some lucky winners will receive $800 worth of soccer shoes.

Beer, Footy and Birds is just one of many sites making people aware of the campaign, and giving you an opportunity to make a difference, by providing some much needed help to people far less fortunate than ourselves.

Take a look at Shoes 4 Life - it's a positive way to celebrate how the World Cup is bringing the world together.