Ray Bold's Review

A simple question....

2007-02-04T00:44:36Z

This piece fromt the BBC is fantastic. Now, I'm not usually one to go into the whole shrieking "Political Correctness Gone Mad!" routine but sometimes it has to be said some people cross the line.

A supply teacher has been sacked from a secondary school following complaints from Muslim pupils. Andrew McLuskey was sacked from Bayliss Court Secondary School in Slough after a Religious Education lesson discussing the pros and cons of religion. Pupils at the predominantly Muslim school claimed Mr McLuskey said most suicide bombers were Muslim

And here's my question.]]> NAME ONE RELIGION THAT COULD POSSIBLY HAVE A HIGHER NUMBER OF PEOPLE BECOMING SUICIDE BOMBERS? You can't can you. The fact wether you like it or not, is that the vast majority of suicide bombings are committed by Muslim fanatics. Sacking a teacher isn't going to change that fact. If you're in a RE lesson discussing the pros and cons of religion........expect to hear the cons.

D'oh in the USA

2007-01-30T20:42:43Z

I know this is unfair and that this kind of thing could work in any nation and on any street....but let's just take time to laugh at stupid Americans. "Name a country that starts with U" "Utah" "What’s the religion of Israel?""Israeli.” "Who's Fidel Castro" "A singer?" “Who won the Vietnam War?”“We did. Wait, were we even in the Vietnam War?” “How many sides does a triangle have?”“There’s no sides… One?” "What currency is used in the United Kingdom?" "What's the United Kingdom, I don't know"

Pure bravery

2007-01-17T11:59:42Z

If these guys aren't up for some bravery medals then there's something seriously wrong. Of course they deserve them anyway for fighting in the War on Terror's forgotten conflict but this just sticks out as daring do that belongs more in the pages of Boys Own and Commando comics than in today's newspapers. Whether you're a bloodthirsty chickenhawk or a tofu chewing pacifist treehugger you cannot deny the bravery and dedication to their fellow comrades. The Royal Marine killed in action in Afghanistan on Monday was the subject of a dramatic rescue attempt by his colleagues, the MoD has revealed. L/Cpl Mathew Ford, of 45 Commando Royal Marines, died during an attack on a Taleban fort in the Helmand province. When his colleagues regrouped and found he was missing, they flew back. Four strapped themselves to two Apache helicopters which landed inside and outside the fort's wall. But they discovered he was already dead. UK Task Force spokesman, Lt Col Rory Bruce, said the heroic mission was a "leap into the unknown". "This is believed to be the first time UK forces have ever tried this type of rescue mission," he said. "It was an extraordinary tale of heroism and bravery of our airmen, soldiers and marines who were all prepared to put themselves back into the line of fire to rescue a fallen comrade. [...] The MoD said the Apache helicopter can only carry a pilot and a gunner but there are attachments on the wings for personnel to harness themselves to in emergencies. The fort had been a surveillance target for more than two months. A third Apache helicopter and other units provided covering fire, as the rescue bid got under way, the MoD said. The helicopters landed in the fort and located L/Cpl Ford's body, which they then strapped to the Apache. A gong for each man involved I hope. Via BBC NEWS]]>

Tony Blair: The Media made the war unpopular

2007-01-14T12:06:39Z

I think I've just had enough of St. Tony and his bloody rubbish. Not that I was one of those doe-eyed happy-clappy idiots who saw Labour winning an election as a new dawn. Over the years I've seen him do a reasonable job. Ignoring the war in Iraq he really has done a pretty impressive piece of work but hey, the war in Iraq is a major mess-up. He has to put his hands up on that one. Doesn't he? Oh no. St. Tony of Neveradmittinganything, blames the Media. Yes, you've got it the Media. They are the ones who bullshitted us about the WMD's, they're the one's who allowed the CIA to kidnap and torture people and the fly them around Europe, they are the ones who are sending our lads home from Iraq in bodybags. Jeebus H. Christos! Has this man no shame?]]>

Americans frighten me

2007-01-13T22:07:18Z

I know, it's not big or clever to take the mick out of the Yanks. Everyone does it, but it sure is easy. However, this piece of news not only gives me the chance to blog about the wacky stuff they get up to but also it allows me to register my concern that a nation with people who say stuff like this... "Condoms don't belong in school, and neither does Al Gore. He's not a schoolteacher," said Frosty Hardison, a parent of seven who also said that he believes the Earth is 14,000 years old. "The information that's being presented is a very cockeyed view of what the truth is. ... The Bible says that in the end times everything will burn up, but that perspective isn't in the DVD." ....are free to vote in a country that currently has one of the largest and most deadly military forces in the world. Why the reaction from this religious nutcase? It seems that he objects to Al Gore's excellent documentary "An Inconvenient Truth" being shown in schools. I suspect he'd have no problem with the teachers if they repeated his idiotic "the Earth is 14,000 years old" and that everything in the Bible is absolute fact. Frightening. Very frightening. Via The News Blog]]>

Nice work if you can get it, eh?

2007-01-12T15:29:08Z

Now this is strange, if you were a multi-million pound footballer playing at the biggest club in the world....why would you move to the LA Galaxy in the MLS?

Becks 'n' Posh are coming to Hollywood. And David Beckham didn't even have to audition to become the next American Idol. The most recognized soccer player on the planet -- fashion icon, tabloid fixture, marketing giant -- announced a deal Thursday to play for the Los Angeles Galaxy. "David Beckham is a global sports icon who will transcend the sport of soccer in America," gushed Major League Soccer commissioner Don Garber. Bringing free kicks, glitz and his Spice Girl wife, Beckham is leading another British invasion, hoping to do for American soccer what the Beatles once did for pop music -- make it rock. "There are so many great sports in America," the 31-year-old former England captain said. "There are so many kids that play baseball, American football, basketball. But soccer is huge all around the world apart from America, so that's where I want to make a difference with the kids."

Ah, I see. He wants to 'make a difference with the kids'. How noble. Nothing to do with the 5 year contract and the $250 million dollar contract then?

David Beckham. Officially retired from football.

Via Sports Illustrated]]>

The most stomach churning story ever?

2006-12-27T23:09:53Z

I've quoted this story from Monsters & Critics below the fold because I want to protect the innocent, those of a sensitive disposition and those who, well, let's face it just have class.]]> Television presenter and journalist Vanessa Feltz has told of the 'suggestive' text messages she receives from comedian Russell Brand. Speaking of her friendship with the Big Brother's Big Mouth presenter, Vanessa confessed to being the recipient of many interesting text messages from Brand, something she hopes won't stop anytime soon. She said: 'I’ve been a great fan and friend and the recipient of many titillating texts from him which I thoroughly enjoy receiving. Long may they continue!' Vannessa and Russel in a tree.....bleuuuuurghhhhh.....oooh carrots! Who'd have guessed?

The love of the beautiful game

2006-12-20T12:30:18Z

I'm a self confessed football fanatic. I love it. So much so, I'll watch any game on TV no matter it's level, consequence or it's interest level. Non-league, under-21's, under-18's, women's, masters, 5 a side, celebrity etc etc. It really makes no difference. My main love withing football is Tottenham Hotspur FC, from as early as I can remember I was a Spurs fan. I'd go as far as saying that Tottenham shaped me. My nature is perfectly suited to it and it has brought out certain areas of my personality more than others. For instance, being a Spurs supporter helps you develop advanced cynicism, sarcasm and pessimism. For the best part of 30 years I have been a creature of my support for the club, enduring the lows and enjoying the highs (all too rare). Yes, Spurs are a big club with lots of history and tradition, but you can hardly call me a glory hunter! Constant disappointments, false dawns and non-existent cup runs have marred my childhood, teenage and adult life. But I still love the club. Funny isn't it? Ajax - Dutch superstars who embody the spirit of 'Total Football'. The set the benchmark and continue to do so. They play the fluid, attacking 'pure' football that Spurs have always aspired to (and briefly attained). St Pauli- German lower league nobodies. However in Germany and around the world they are considered a 'Kult' club. Known for their left wing, anti-Nazi, anti-Sexist stance they have a unique place in football. They were one of the first clubs to crack down on neo-Nazis and hooligans. They banned adverts by the magazine 'Maxim' because they were considered sexist. They have principles, something that is sadly missing in modern football. Deportiva La Coruna - Spanish mid-table dandy's. Always played nice football, but far too hit and miss to be considered one of the big boys. Reminds me of Spurs, hence the soft spot.]]>

The Aftermath

2006-12-18T12:32:28Z

Sorry for the lack of posting recently. I've had good reason for my absence. A fortnight ago my grandfather died. A man I called 'Dad' because he brought me up as his own has now gone. The hole this leaves in my heart and soul is immeasurable. Dougie was a one off, a one legged curmudgeon with a heart of gold who while sarcastic and biting would help anyone who genuinly needed it. Known for his reckless mobility scooter driving, his wooly hat (which never left his head and was buried with his ashes) and his single minded independence he will be missed not only by family and friends but by an entire community. A few notes on the last fortnight. Despite the family's grief we are glad that we followed his wishes and had a Humanist (non-religious) ceremony, both family and friends were touched by it. It was far more personal than any service I have ever heard. Doug's life touched many people and to have it told in such away brought tears, memories and chuckles. That's what he would've wanted. He lived his life, and despite hardships and chronic ill-health for the length of it persued life with a vigour and passion untamed. Morally and ethically he lived better than most allegedly 'religous' people. At this point I think is important for me to thank Caerphilly Funeral Service who's proffessionalism and help made the occasion go without problem and Richard Patterson of the British Humanist Society who's service was so touching. I'd also like to thank Nicola, my partner for being there for me and caring for me whilst I was at my lowest ebb. I'd like to thank all friends who've messaged, e-mailed, sent cards and sent texts to offer their condolences. It's been a great help. Thank you. Lastly I'd like to reserve a special mention for Caerphilly Borough County Council who rather helpfully gave us only two days to empty Dad's house. If anything was left we were informed that we would have to pay £295 for the Council to remove it. Thank you. The family came together and managed to get the job done despite our grief. In your heartless, callous, unfeeling and jobsworth bullshit you managed to get the best out of my family.

The Teflon Junkie

2006-12-04T12:56:56Z

What does Pete Doherty have to do to get a jail sentence? The man is a habitual criminal, if he was some chav from a council estate he'd be eating prison grub by now. Does celebrity and the promise of rehab really sway judges? It must, considering that he's been caught with half the output of Columbia on many occasions, has been done for drunk driving, assault, burglary and other offences.]]> 'most undeserving icon of the year'. All we need now is for the judiciary of this country to realise how much of a prat he is and everyone will be happy. I'm starting a campaign, it's called 'Jail the Babyshambles One'! Who's with me? My Top 5 undeserving icons: 1. Pete Doherty 2. Kate Moss 3. Every member of the Libertines 4. Every member of Babyshambles 5. Pete's mum, who had the nerve to write a book about the no-mark

The twisted world of Kelvin MacKenzie

2006-12-02T01:39:10Z

I'm not going to comment on this story, I'd be swearing and threatening violence if I tried. I'll just post the basic facts about what Mr. Mackenzie has claimed. I'm a great believer in freedom of speech and the right of the press to investigate anything they want (within reason) but Mackenzie's Sun was deplorable and his recent outbursts make him out to be the architect of the ultimate example of gutter journalism. See below, what the 'ex-editor' had to say recently....]]> Former Sun editor Kelvin MacKenzie has reportedly claimed that the newspaper's allegations about Liverpool supporters at Hillsborough was "the truth". The Sun famously claimed that Liverpool fans had caused the tragedy - which claimed the lives of 96 people - by drunkenly storming the gates, and also alleged that fans urinated on the bodies of the dead and stole their wallets. So that's, drunken fans were responsibe for Hillsborough and they also urinated on and stole from the dead and dying. As I said I'll make no comment and let his words speak for themselves. Source: Football 365

The wonderful world of Banksy

2006-12-01T13:51:45Z

There are many in the 'art world' who dismiss Banksy as a bit of a charlatan. Perhaps it's jealousy, his 'art' after all is recognised by far more people than works by others of his generation. His style is wacky, has a sense of humour and genuinely does make people as questions. Something that others attempt but fail miserably. So let's take a look at his latest offering..... Quite funny, but does it make you stop and stare? Does it make you think? Does it kick against authority? No. Not at all. It's a joke that would be at home on the pages of the Daily Sport. Compare it with his work on the Israeli 'security' wall.... Not even in the same ballpark is it? C'mon Banksy, as an admirer and enthusiastic supporter of yours I expect a little more than a lazy Jacko pastiche.]]>

License to talk rubbish

2006-12-01T09:43:14Z

In a recent speech the head of BBC's television news department, Peter Horrocks, has suggested that the BBC should give more airtime to extremist views. Apparently he doesn't think that there's enough BNP, Taliban, Muhajiroun or any other nutjobs you could mention on TV at the moment. Actually Mr. Horrocks the answer to your bizarre argument rhymes with your surname. In a speech given at Oxford University Horrocks said: "So the days of middle-of-the-road, balancing left and right, impartiality are dead." No Mr. Horrocks, the only thing that's dead around here is your brain. Source: Daily Mail]]>

A Christmas tale

2006-11-30T11:49:45Z

Another year, another Christmas to moan about.'Tis the season to be jolly, eh? Not likely. The other half has already dropped the ultimate Christmas lie on me. "We're saving for our next holiday, so let's not get each other anything this year ok?" I know what that means. I'm not getting present but I'm a dead man if I don't get her something. Never again will I get caught out by that little trick. Never again will I have to dart out of the house at 9.30pm on Christmas eve to the local 24hr garage. Never again will my partner get plastic flowers, a collection of soft back Catherine Cookson's and a bag of charcoal for Christmas. My Top 5 most hated Christmas things: 1. Christmas Celebrity Specials 2. Christmas TV guides that are printed to early and all the film slots have 'to be announced' on them. 3. People who turn their houses into neon coated fire risks in the name of 'Christmas spirit' 4. Carol singers and kids who think that singing the first line of a carol should guarantee them some kind of financial reward. 5. People who call others 'Scrooge' just because the fail to get excited by this fake, plastic, commercial, shallow and materialistic holiday.]]>

Scouse fury

2006-11-28T15:31:12Z

The fire of England's north-south rivalry has been fuelled when regeneration chiefs in Liverpool complained of a pro-London bias by internet giant Google. Liverpool Vision, which is co-ordinating massive redevelopment of the city, complained that the huge changes are not visible on Google Earth. The popular site, which uses satellite images to create aerial views of much of the planet, does show the very latest London landmarks, such as the new Wembley and Arsenal FC stadia. ]]> Perhaps it would help if the Scousers promised not steal anything off the satellites as they pass overhead? An amnesty if you will. Then they can capture Liverpool in its full glory. Although the glare from the cheap jewellery and shell-suits may be a problem and the fires from various abandoned cars will have to be doused beforehand obviously. PS I must just point out that I have friends who are Scousers and I hope they'll see the funny side of my comments. Then again, they may not because the greatest urban myth ever created is the one about 'Scousers having the best sense of humour in the world'.