Heidi Montag And Her Newly Operated Sexiness

Heidi Montag deserves an award for perseverance, this blond slut will do anything to get some attention! I mean for a 23 year old girl, who decided to have 10 operations all over her body in a day... damn this bitch can hack it! Here's Heidi Montag wearing revealing lingerie and licking on chocolate for some kind of Valentine gig. I really don't care if she looks like a plastic doll or if she's addicted to plastic surgery, as long as she keeps making our dicks hard then it's all good! See more of Heidi Montag inside Celebs Only and get to see more horny Hollywood stars getting exposed in hot nude photos and raunchy sex movies!

More about → Heidi Montag And Her Newly Operated Sexiness

103 CUBE ON ALL 2011 H-D TOURERS

POWERFUL 103” ENGINE FEATURES IN TOURING LINE FOR 2011

SYDNEY; Harley-Davidson® expands its family of Great American Touring motorcycles with the introduction of the Twin Cam 103™ on all Touring family models.

Harley-Davidson will offer four Touring models for 2011, each featuring the satisfying character of V-Twin power and an appealing combination of technology and tradition that have made Harley models the most-popular heavy-weight touring motorcycles on the road.



NEW Engine
A new level of performance and technology, the Twin Cam 103 engine is now a standard feature on all Touring models.  The Twin Cam 103 is rated at 102 ft. lbs. of torque at 3500 rpm, a 9.6 per cent increase in peak torque over the Twin Cam 96™ engine it replaces, providing extra power for enhanced passing and hill-climbing performance when a passenger and luggage are on board.

NEW Touring Seat Designs
The seats on all 2011 Harley-Davidson Touring models have been re-shaped to enhance styling, improve rider leg reach to the ground, and to provide better lower back support.  A key element of the new seat design is a narrower forward section of the seat, which makes it easier for more riders to place both feet confidently on the ground.

Engineered for the Long Haul
The Harley-Davidson Touring chassis provides precise and responsive maneuverability, robust capacity, and outstanding comfort for both rider and passenger.  Its features include:

• A single-spar, rigid backbone frame designed to satisfy the demands of long-haul touring riders and more-powerful engines.  The frame is manufactured with the latest coordinated motion robotic welding process, which offers outstanding dimensional accuracy and weld quality.  Components are joined with cast and forged node-tube joints.

• The swingarm is formed with a two-piece, deep-drawn shell with a forged pivot section, and contributes significantly to the motorcycle’s maneuverability and comfort.

• Dunlop® D407 Multi-Tread rear tyres are designed specifically for the Harley-Davidson Touring chassis.  The construction of the tyres and the distribution of a longer-life center tread compound and more aggressive shoulder compound enhance straight-line performance and will deliver up to 25 per cent more rear-tyre tread life than a standard tyre.

• The Isolated Drive System compensator integrated into the rear wheel hub reduces noise and vibration to the rider for improved ride quality under acceleration, shifting and cruising.

• Touring models are powered by the rubber-isolated Twin Cam 103 V-Twin engine with Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI) and Electronic Throttle Control (ETC), mated to the 6-speed Cruise Drive transmission for outstanding performance and economy.  Cruise control and ABS are also standard across the board.  All models also feature air-adjustable rear shocks to accommodate variable passenger and luggage loads.

• Other standard features include two-year factory warranty, Smart Security System, and two-year Harley Assist™  24 / 7 roadside assistance

The new Harley-Davidson Touring motorcycles will be available in Australia and New Zealand from 1 September, 2010.

More about → 103 CUBE ON ALL 2011 H-D TOURERS

Pacific Party is nearly officially history

In March the Family Party was deregistered by the electoral Commission. At the time I said that as three Christian parties - Family, Pacific and Christian Heritage - had departed from the political scene - two of their leaders are in prison, and the third is associated with a man who claims he is the physical manifestation of God, it was time to deregister the Pacific Party.

The Pacific Party was formed to attack Labour's "ungodly laws", but was the only political party registered while its leader was facing charges of ungodly lawlessness (which he lied about, and is consequently now in prison).

Four months after that post, the Pacific Party is finally going to be consigned to the dustbin.God is happy.

More about →

WHITE RIBBON RIDE SET TO RUMBLE

Ric Odom and his Goldwing

The White Ribbon Ride in November will visit more than 40 towns in the North Island on a road trip to help end violence towards women.

The motorcycle ride, organised by the Families Commission as part of the White Ribbon campaign, will start in Tauranga and travel south through the centre of the North Island to Wellington and then north via eastern and western routes to Auckland and Bream Bay, visiting some 40 local communities.

“I’m delighted that the ride is being supported by motorcycle enthusiasts,” says Rob McCann who coordinates the White Ribbon Campaign for the Families Commission. “The inaugural ride in 2009 was fantastic and the riders were met with enthusiasm, and a few too many sausages, whereever they went. I’m sure that the positive experience from 2009 is why we have so many riders asking for ‘ride 10’ details.

“During the last few years New Zealand has seen a growing intolerance of violence and this has been reinforced by the ‘It’s Not OK’ and White Ribbon campaigns. This rejection of family violence, and specifically violence against women, has led to increased reporting and is also reflected by the increasing number of communities taking part in White Ribbon Day activities,” says Mr McCann.

“I was recently asked why White Ribbon Day was a call to men? The answer is simple. Men want to be part of the solution. This is an opportunity to show leadership and create role models for the next generation, and in doing so, break the cycle of violence.”

By offering an activity that speaks to other men, the ride can engage with communities in a way that is exciting and creates attention.

Ric Odom, owner of a Honda Gold Wing, National CEO for the YMCA and a member of the White Ribbon organising committee, participated in the White Ribbon Ride last year and encouraged some of his YMCA colleagues to join him. He says, “I had a great experience last year. Not only did I get to ride my bike for more than 800 kilometres, I had a real feeling that we contributed to making New Zealand a better place. At each location we were met by communities that were excited that men were making a stand against violence.

“Powerful bikes equal a powerful message, but we need riders to join us and show that men do care about our communities, our homes and our families. All violence is unacceptable. The ride is the perfect opportunity to show we’re against violence towards women.”

For further information about the White Ribbon Ride visit http://www.whiteribbon.org.nz/

Key Messages:
No violence within families is tolerable. If someone within the family is being frightened or intimidated by the behaviour of someone else, it is not OK. Violence isn’t just the physical, it’s also emotional or verbal behaviour used to control someone through fear. Things we say, or don’t say, contribute to the abuse.
White Ribbon Day is the international day when people, particularly men, wear a white ribbon to show they won’t tolerate, condone or remain silent about violence against women.
It originated as a men’s movement in Canada and is now part of the United Nations annual calendar (International Day for Elimination of Violence Against Women). The Families Commission took a leadership role in New Zealand in 2006.
Whether you are a father, brother, uncle, granddad or cousin – we all want to keep our families safe. We all want our children to grow up and have happy healthy relationships.
By simply wearing a white ribbon you can make it clear to other men that you do not tolerate violence against women.
You can also make sure your home, your business or your sports club is a safe environment where abusive behaviour is not tolerated.
The White Ribbon Day campaign encourages men to talk openly about family violence, to support men who want to change their abusive behaviour and to challenge comments, statements and actions by men that are abusive.

Statistics in New Zealand
In New Zealand most violence towards women takes place in the home.
In violence between couples, it is men’s violence that is most likely to cause serious physical or psychological harm.
An average of 14 women a year are killed by their partners or ex partners.
There are over 3500 convictions recorded against men each year for assaults on women.
One in three women will experience partner violence at some point in their lives.

The Families Commission and White Ribbon Committee works with multiple agencies and NGOs to coordinate the national campaign. The White Ribbon campaign complements but is separate to the family violence It’s Not OK campaign.

The White Ribbon Ride
The White Ribbon Ride is now into its second year. The structure of the ride is significantly different to that of 2009, with one ride travelling south on State Highway One and then two rides travelling north via eastern and western routes. The ride is led by the Super Maori Fullas (Mervyn, Roger and Mahu Rawiri) and the Patriots Defence Force Motorcycle Club whose members are former or serving members of the armed forces or police.
For further information about the ride visit www.whiteribbon.org.nz

Rules include:
No alcohol or drugs are permitted on the ride
No patches
Must have motorcycle of 250cc or greater
Must agree to the pledge that ‘Wearing a white ribbon is a personal pledge never to commit, condone or remain silent about violence against women’

The Pledge
Wearing a white ribbon is a personal pledge never to commit, condone or remain silent about violence against women.

More about → WHITE RIBBON RIDE SET TO RUMBLE

Chris Carter has been suspended from the Labour Party caucus

updated
Chris Carter has been suspended from the Labour Party caucus after admitting to sending an anonymous letter claiming there is a plot to overthrow leader Phil Goff.

There isn't.

You can read the letter here.

This letter was reported earlier today, before Carter's name became public. The letter also says Manurewa MP George Hawkins is being challenged by a union member for nomination, understood to be a EPMU member, and is threatening a by-election.

"There are no more chances. His future in the Labour Party is at an end," Goff said.

Goff said he recognised Mr Carter's handwriting on the envelope of the anonymous letter addressed, as I recall, to Vernon Small at the Press Gallery.( update: it was sent to other media outlets also). Carter may be expelled from the party as early as next weekend and nominations will be reopened for the Te Atatu electorate - of which Carter's partner, Peter Kaiser, is the electorate chair.

Of course, Carter can stay on as an independent, or resign and force a by-election. Either way, it's a sad day for the Labour caucus, but they'll bounce back.

Chris Carter, I guess, is wishing that Helen Clark was still the leader of the Labour Party. The rest of the caucus are supportive of the current leadership.

More about →

The drink driving limit

While there are various opinions as to whether the drink driving limit should be changed, one of the justifications of not lowering the limit was more research is needed to be done. This 23 page report, released under the OIA, provides some of the research , particularly when comparing blood alcohol concentration ( BAC) at the 0.05 and the 0.08 levels.

Each year, drivers with a BAC between 0.05 and 0.08 are responsible for at least 7 deaths, 45 serious injuries and 102 minor injuries- at a social cost of $56.5m. Lowering the BAC to 0.05 is estimated to save between 15 and 33 lives, and prevent 320 to 386 injuries each year- at a savings of between $111m and $238m each year, and a savings of $28.5m on ACC claims.

Of note, if a person who has an accident with a BAC that is lower than 0.08, no recording of that count is required. Therefore, there are no stats on how many of the 1329 drivers suspected of having an alcohol impaired crash - but at lower than 0.08 - had a count between 0.05 and 0.08. This paper to a Cabinet committee recommended a lowering of the BAC levels for drink driving to make it equal to Australia, or to establish the level of crashes caused by drivers with a BAC between 0.05 and 0.08.

The Government has chosen the latter. It could have chosen to do both. Or neither. But if hard data to establish the levels of crashes caused by drivers between these two levels is the missing research that the Government wanted, then I wonder why it took so long to announce that they will be collecting this data starting from sometime next year?

More about →

Paris Hilton Getting A Tan On A Yatch In Brazil

Here's the legendary Paris Hilton acting like a whore again while in a bikini. I call her legendary because Paris Hilton, however over exposed she get that skinny body of hers has still has the ability to make us drool. I mean, if you think of it, we should all really be sick and tired of looking at Paris Hilton while in a flimsy two piece time and time again... nah! She's on a yacht wearing this hot two piece suit that makes her skinny ass look bigger while lounging in Brazil. See more of Paris Hilton inside Celebs Only and sign up today to see more hot and sexy celebrity bitches getting exposed in nude photos and raunchy sex tapes!

More about → Paris Hilton Getting A Tan On A Yatch In Brazil

ANOTHER ERA, ANOTHER TITLE FOR KING

The podium for the over-40s veterans at the Australian
Motocross Championships this season was
(left to right) Stuart McFerran, Darryll King
and Brad Williscroft. Photo by Kajx Communications.

By Andy McGechan

Old soldiers never die, they just keep on fighting.
That could certainly be said of Hamilton’s Darryll King.
It may have been six years since the Kiwi legend last won a major national title in Australia but he rolled back the clock in July when he made it Australian motocross title No.4.
King won the prestigious open class titles across the Tasman on three separate occasions – in 2001, 2003 and 2004 – and he returned at the weekend to snatch away the over-40s veterans’ crown, an official championship for the first time this season.
The 41-year-old raced his Yamaha YZ450F to a hat-trick of wins at the Coolum circuit, this inaugural veterans’ championship sharing the programme with the eighth and final round of the open class (MX1), pro lites (MX2) and under-19s championships.
“In the end I did it fairly easily but there are still some very fast riders at the top of their game in the veterans’ racing,” said King, who had earlier this season also raced a Yamaha YZ250 in the pro lites championship.
“It was a neat track and (promoter) Kevin Williams does a great job. I always get fantastic support from Yamaha over there too. All in all, it was a brilliant weekend.”
Meanwhile, fellow Yamaha rider Cameron Taylor won the 35-40 years’ veterans’ title with a similar display of dominance, taking a clean sweep of moto wins.
King now looks ahead to contesting the final round of the World Veterans’ Motocross Championships at Lierop, in the Netherlands, on September 4.
A jam-packed personal calendar meant King has been unable to mount a full campaign in Europe this season, but, at the only other round of the world series he attended, the United States GP in May, he finished the day overall runner-up.
King twice finished second that day, both times behind fellow Yamaha rider Doug Dubach.
“I’m really looking forward to racing in Holland,” said King. “That’s why I raced the YZ450F four-stroke instead of the YZ250 two-stroke in Coolum. I need to be riding the bigger bike in the deep sand of the Dutch track.”
King said he is still uncertain whether he will be able to mount a full campaign in the veterans’ class in Europe next season but “the calendar is out already and it just might suit me.”

More about → ANOTHER ERA, ANOTHER TITLE FOR KING

Family First approaches sex party for preference deal

Ha, this is so funny. Australia has a Sex Party, and the conservative Family First Party* approached it to do a preference deal in the federal election. The election will be run on a preferential voting system.

But despite the approach, the deal never happened. Or in the words of Family First:

We were talking with them (the Australian Sex Party) about the election ... and we came to an arrangement not to do an arrangement with them

That's a bit like a vegetarian going to a butchers shop and coming to an arrangement with the butcher not to buy meat.

*Nothing to do with these guys

More about →

The narrow door to education: getting entrance to university just got harder

One of the things that affects student achievement is how the government funds students and tertiary institutions.

The Government has a Tertiary Education Strategy which has a vision for a "world-leading education system that equips all New Zealanders with the knowledge, skills and values to be successful citizens in the 21st century."

Yet the vision does not meet the strategy; and the world leading education system is not financially equipped to meet the vision. The focus of the strategy is on those 25 and under that want to study full time to achieve a university degree. If you want to study part time, or extramurally while working, you don't fit, especially if you are over 25. The strategy notes that funding for tertiary institutions,will, in future, be linked to post-study employment and that a " wide range of students" should be successfully completing university degrees.

The strategy indicates that the Government wants to see more students enrolling, and finishing their degrees more quickly.But while most will have university entrance, many won't be able to enter university, despite the strategy concluding that " the tertiary education system needs to ensure it can meet the educational needs of an increasingly diverse population".

The Tertiary Education strategy says that student choice will be a driving factor in tertiary education provision. Some students want to be able to take some summer school papers - but if you want to do that at Massey University you can't, as enrolments were closed off last week with no warning to prospective students. This is not because the Government is not funding students - indeed, most summer school students won't be eligible for student allowances or student loans for living costs - it is because the Government has funded Massey for a certain number of effective full time students, and these students are now enrolled.

Last year Auckland University turned away 1100 students, and this year the number was almost 2000. Next year, both Victoria University and Massey University will join Auckland in introducing ranking systems for entrants under 20, meaning half of all enrolment places at New Zealand universities will be subject to competitive entry criteria. It is the single biggest change to our tertiary system since the introduction of student fees in 1990, and one that has happened so quickly that it has almost totally bypassed the public radar. Some fear it signals an end to open access education in New Zealand, and a move towards the kind of elitism New Zealanders have always liked to believe happened somewhere else.

That last paragraph was from an article from Matt Russell on capping enrolments in our universities for the Massey student mag Off Campus - but this new form of university capping does not happen at graduation, and is not just happening at Massey, it's happening nationwide.

The whole article is worth a read.

More about →

ACC SETS UP ACCIDENT PREVENTION GROUP

The ACC has teamed up with representatives from key motorcycle, scooter and moped groups to look at ways to reduce motorbike injuries.

On 1 July, ACC introduced the Motorcycle Safety Levy (MSL) - a $30 annual fee for each registered motorcycle.

ACC is putting this money into a ring-fenced fund that will be specifically used on injury prevention initiatives to reduce the number and severity of motorcycle and moped injuries and fatalities.

To oversee the design of the programme, ACC has set up an establishment group. The group’s aim is to ensure the MSL programme is set up with motorbike and moped riders at the forefront. They met for the first time in Wellington on 14 July and their first task is to develop the foundations for how the MSL programme will be administered and operated.

The group is made of eight people representing the following groups; Bikers Rights Organisation of NZ (BRONZ), Women’s International Motorcycle Association (WIMA), Motorcycling New Zealand, Scoot NZ, NZ Classic Scooter Club, Motor Industry Association, Ministry of Transport and the NZ Transport Agency, Ulysses Club of NZ Inc. Seven of the group members are motorbike or moped riders.

Peter McIntosh, of Ulysses, sees the potential from the use of the MSL funds for motorcyclists.

“For the first time we will have a dedicated safety fund for us as riders with genuine input from the motorcycling community on what types of initiatives will really benefit us. The Government and ACC have made a genuine commitment to working with motorcyclists in the operation of the Motorcycle Safety Levy to improve the safety of all motorcyclists. It is now in place and the best thing we can all do is to take a positive step forward and support it,” said Mr McIntosh.

ACC is providing additional funding to cover administration, so that all funds collected are used directly on funding safety initiatives rather than on the administration of the programme.

ACC General Manager Injury Prevention Keith McLea says the MSL programme’s success depends on input from motorcyclists on its design and development.

“We want to ensure this programme is set up for motorcyclists by motorcyclists,” Mr McLea said.

For additional information or to register to receive updates about the MSL, visit www.acc.co.nz/motorcycle-safety-levy.


Additional information

Members on the establishment group include:
- Brent Hutchison, President of Wellington branch of Bikers Rights Organisation of NZ (BRONZ)
- Peter McIntosh, President Ulysses Club of NZ Inc
- Yvonne Forrest, Representative of Women’s International Motorcycle Association (WIMA)
- Paul Searancke, Commissioner: Recreation/Leisure of Motorcycling New Zealand
- Jess Corbett from Scoot NZ and the NZ Classic Scooter Club
- Clive Hellyar, Advisor from the Motor Industry Association
- Ministry of Transport representative
- Jim Furneaux, from NZ Transport Agency

More about → ACC SETS UP ACCIDENT PREVENTION GROUP

COACHING WITH CHRIS BIRCH DATES

Womans mid week sand skills 
Wednesday 28th July
Women-only coaching day at the Kawasaki Sand Pit. Nice and relaxed and open to riders of all ability. Starting at ten and finishing around two. Cost is $100.
Pre booking essential please email chris@birchy.co.nz

Mens mid week sand skills 
Wednesday 4th August
At the Kawasaki Sand Pit. Aimed at intermediate riders but open to all. Starting at ten and finishing around two. Cost is $150 inclusive of entry to Kawasaki Sand Pit.
Pre booking essential please email chris@birchy.co.nz

Trail riding Skills 
Taupo 8th August
A days coaching for trail riders at a brilliant venue ten minutes out of Taupo. Open to riders of all abilities. We will cover basic bike set up, a little bit of suspension set up and lots of riding skills for hitting the trails. Cost is $150 and pre booking is essential.
Email chris@birchy.co.nz

More about → COACHING WITH CHRIS BIRCH DATES

KIWI KICKING UP A STORM IN EUROPE

Photo by Andy McGechan, BikesportNZ.com

New Zealand’s Kayne Lamont is going from strength to strength.
Lamont won the two main classes at the New Zealand Junior Motocross Championship near Blenheim in April, then immediately afterwards boarded an international flight.
The 17-year-old from Mangakino, in the Central North Island, headed off to Europe to follow in the wheels-tracks of men such as Motueka’s Josh Coppins and Tauranga’s Ben Townley.
Now based in England, the Suzuki GB rider (who is sponsored by Mount Maunganui’s MotoGB in New Zealand) has been flitting to and fro across the English Channel to tackle several rounds of the European 125cc championships (EMX125).
He scored solid points at the latest round of that series in Sweden, finishing 11th and 15th, placing him 14th overall for the day.
He then put himself on the top step of the podium, this time at round six of the Red Bull British 125cc Championships at the Howton Court circuit in Pontrilas, south Herefordshire, close to the Welsh border.
He was again in action in England on Saturday and Sunday, this time challenging the elite of the MXY2 class at round five of the British Motocross Championships at Foxhills, in Swindon.
Making his debut in the MXY2 class, Lamont stormed to the top of the qualifying rankings, humbling current championship leader Connor Walkley and other British stars Tom Kelly, Matt Bayliss and Matt Burrows.
For racing proper, Lamont took his RM125 to the front of the pack, eventually winning the race ahead of Walkley and that really set the tongues wagging.
“The commentator said it was the first time in his memory that a 125cc two-stroke had won a race in this class – the racing here open to 125cc two-strokes and 250cc four-stroke bikes,” said Lamont’s father, Stuart.
Lamont had a more difficult second race and had to settle for runner-up spot, behind Walkley, meaning the young New Zealander had to settle for overall runner-up on the day because of the count-back rule – with the highest-placed rider in the last race getting the nod.
“Kayne is feeling really comfortable with the Suzuki and we now head back to Belgium tomorrow before heading across to the Czech Republic to tackle round six of the EMX125 Championships on August 8.”

Source: Suzuki NZ.

More about → KIWI KICKING UP A STORM IN EUROPE

Lady Gaga Proving That She Does Not Have A Cock

Lady Gaga amazed everyone at the Brit Awards the other night... showing the entire world the she doesn't own a cock! Kinky internet rumors that this pop mega star is a hermaphrodite quickly evaporated when she showed up on stage with one of the skankiest outfit in Hollywood (even for her), and showing us all that she has one sex organ, and that's a pinkish bald pussy! Her twat is kind of sweet looking in these steamy photos! See more of Lady Gaga's now famous cunt inside Celebs Only and get to see more gorgeous celebrity babes like her getting exposed in nude pics and raunchy sex movies!

More about → Lady Gaga Proving That She Does Not Have A Cock

ILLNESS FORCES REED OUT

Statement from Chad Reed about his 2010 racing campaign
For Immediate Release: 24 July 2010

To all my friends in the motorsport world I didn't want you all to just get the press release so please find my open letter below as was supplied to my sponsors and commercial partners yesterday evening, a full press release will follow.

I have spent most of the last month in and out of my doctor’s office getting tests done, trying to figure out what is going on.

Knowing that I have worked hard during the week on and off the bike, each weekend I head to the race excited to get out there and get some wins on my Monster Kawasaki - ready to defend the Number 1 plate that is on my bike. The team and bike are prepped and ready on race day and then I’m unable to race like I normally can.



Where is the fight that I normally have?..... For most of this outdoor season I have been frustrated and questioning every part of my program, wondering why I am unable to race to my full potential. It's embarrassing riding with the #1 plate on and not battling at the front. I don't take it lightly, and I knew I had to get to the bottom of my issues.

Many people have commented that it's due to my role as a new dad, but that's not it. Tate makes me want to race harder, I want my son to be proud of me and I want to teach him that by working hard you can achieve your dreams.

People think that the passing of my friend Andrew McFarlane was another reason that I may not be riding to my full potential, that I'm keeping it safe. That's not it either, I have always ridden within my safety zone and I know Andrew is up there pumping me up to get some holeshots and win some races like he always did.

These two reasons alone make me want to race harder and give it everything I have, to be an example of hard work to my son, to live life to the full and be thankful for doing what I love to do, and that is race a motorcycle. I'm not ready for retirement. I want a few more championships indoors and out.

So finally with all that said, I got my results back from the doctor, I have Epstein Barr Virus. I know some other riders have had it, and I never thought I would be sitting here saying the same thing. It explained my fatigue issues on the track. I knew it wasn't my fitness, but I was struggling to finish moto's. It just got to a point where it was dangerous for me to be out there.

My doctor, team and I have decided that I need to be off the bike for a while to try get this handled. I am really disappointed to be out again. This year has been a personal worst for me. I have often been referred to as Mr. Consistent, but this year has been far from that.

I want to apologise to my fans for not being able to race for you and I want to take this opportunity to thank you for your support and sticking by the 22 this year. From the worst times, comes the best times, and I will be working hard to kick this illness so I can get back on track and to winning races as soon as possible.

Thanks for your support and understanding at this time.

Chad

More about → ILLNESS FORCES REED OUT

No parliamentary support for abortion law change

Steve Chadwick has confirmed via e-mail to two separate people concerned about her bill to legalise abortion – including a worker in the medical profession whom she appears to know - that there is currently no parliamentary support for her bill.[ update: and it appears the Abortion Law Reform Association of New Zealand have recently found out]

I have seen some of the e-mails. Chadwick apparently wanted to start raising awareness and have abortion raised as both a human rights issue, and a women's health issue. But she hasn’t said why it she thinks it is a women’s health issue – and it is a topic politicians are loathe to touch.

In an earlier e-mail, Chadwick said:

I do not want abortion on demand, that was the Herald headline, not mine. I believe we will have succeeded when all children are wanted children because women are educated to make decisions on their fertility and love their children as they deserve to be love

The health worker responded:

The far better course of action is to love and respect both the woman and her child and to help the mother make decisions that respect the life of both. If we do not respect the life of babies before birth how can we be judgemental about those who ill treat children after birth? I believe humans should be loved and respected from conception until natural death. I fail to see how having an abortion helps women to "love their children as they deserve to be loved". Or are they literally loving them to death? And if death is considered a "loving" option for "unwanted" children before birth, isn't it inconsistent to condemn people who "choose" to kill their babies after birth?

You can safely respect my views because I am not in a position of power. You however are in a position of power so it is up to those of us who think your proposed bill will cause even more babies to die before birth, and cause physical and psychological damage to the mothers, to make our views known.

Chadwick then replied:

Thanks xxxx,
You are actually in a position of power called "people power"
There is no parliamentary support for my Bill
Regards
Steve

Chadwick was in contact with another member of the public as well, who she called a “ fabulous parent”.

XXXXX,
You are a fabulous parent and this is a reasoned and compassionate response
There appears to be a lack of parliamentary support for my bill at this stage
I am a midwife and would never pressure parents, nether did any Obstetrician I worked with in NZ for thirty years
Regards
Steve [Chadwick]

I think the politics behind this bill are ill-informed. Getting parliamentary support for a controversial bill is hard work. Sue Bradford found that out with her smacking legislation – but she had the support of her entire party and the Prime Minister right from the outset.

Chadwick doesn’t. Neither did Gerry Brownlee on mining conservation land. So it won't be put in the ballot anytime soon.
Hat tip Sempa Vista

More about →

Pamela Anderson Looking Like A Sexy Tranny

Here's the ever famous Pamela Anderson showing off her sexy jugs while in a glittering dress! She's on a run-way ramp at the Richie Rich A-Muse Fashion show in New York City wearing a sparkling leotard that makes her huge cleavage look even bigger. Yes her boobs are not real but they are still awesome! See Pamela Anderson's tasty fake jugs and more inside Celebs Only, it's where you'll see your favorite celebs getting exposed in steamy naked photos and raunchy sex movies!

More about → Pamela Anderson Looking Like A Sexy Tranny

Massey University students given 30 minutes warning to enrol for summer school

*** Breaking news***
At 4.25pm today, Massey University domestic students were given 30 minutes notice to enrol for summer semester papers. That is because at the end of the semester two enrolment period, the University has exceeded its TEC funding cap for the 2010 year, and because of continued enrolment pressures no further domestic student enrolments can be accepted.

(Actually that's not exactly correct, students weren't even advised, just Massey staff, by email).

Students already enroled in summer school offerings will still be allowed to study. But if not enough students have enroled for their papers, because they thought they had til November to enrol, some papers will be canned and Colleges may redirect students to a suitable alternative. That`ll be hard if the paper is a core paper needed to pass a degree.

New students intending to study at Massey next year must enrol by December 8. Current domestic students have until January 19, which is a lot earlier than the 28 February it used to be.

So, if you were hoping to enrol for summer school at Massey, you can't. And if are a student at school and intend to study at Massey next year, you`ll have to enrol before exams. If you lose your job and subsequently decide to go studying at Massey, you better hope you lose your job well before December 8.

UpdateThe DomPost has a front page story on this, now - and TVNZ has also picked this up.

More about →

Jerks

A Christian school - Middleton Grange - Board of Trustees has sacked a school sports coach because he is gay - because of a belief that homosexuality is a sin. This is the sort of school I would never send my kids to - and had I been on the Board of Trustees for that school I would have resigned.

Rightly so, the school board has been told to attend a human rights awareness course, and has done so. They even had to give the man a payout. Ironically, the team was a girls team. The media reported that parents and teachers did not support the boards decision, but given that the fairly new principal and some parents are on the board, at least some parents supported the decision.

You gotta wonder what is wrong with Christian schools in Canterbury.They even have their own Christian schools network.It's time for them to start networking and discuss what Jesus would do in certain situations.

update Had to laugh when I read the Job description for the Board of Trustees which included "to be well acquainted with the National Education Guidelines and other applicable legislation, so that may ensure Middleton Grange compliance."

Other applicable legislation includes the Human Rights Act.

More about →

H-D REPORTS SLIGHTLY BETTER NEWS

Company Generates Earnings Per Share of $0.59 from Continuing Operations; 

Results Reflect Benefits of Restructuring and Continued Improvement in HDFS Performance; 

Retail Harley-Davidson® Motorcycle Sales Decline Continues to Moderate

MILWAUKEE (July 20, 2010) - Harley-Davidson, Inc. (NYSE: HOG) reported second-quarter 2010 income from continuing operations of $139.3 million, or $0.59 per share, compared to income of $33.4 million and earnings per share of $0.14 from continuing operations in the year-ago quarter. Second-quarter 2010 results include operating income from Financial Services of $60.8 million. Revenue from Motorcycles and Related Products was $1.14 billion in the second quarter.

Worldwide retail sales of new Harley-Davidson® motorcycles decreased 5.5 percent in the quarter compared to the second quarter of 2009, a sequential moderation in the rate of decline from the prior four quarters. In the U.S., retail new Harley-Davidson motorcycle sales were down 8.4 percent and in international markets, retail sales were largely flat, down 0.2 percent compared to last year's second quarter.

For the first six months of 2010, Harley-Davidson income from continuing operations was $208.0 million, or $0.89 per share, a 28.9 percent increase from the year-ago period.
"Harley-Davidson is making steady progress at executing its strategy to deliver results through focus," said Keith Wandell, President and Chief Executive Officer of Harley-Davidson, Inc. "We are seeing the benefits of our restructuring and continuous improvement activities reflected in our earnings performance.

"We are pleased with the continued moderation in the rate of decline of retail new Harley-Davidson motorcycle sales again in the second quarter. At the same time, we continue to believe conditions will remain challenging this year for new motorcycle purchases and we will manage the business based on that expectation, with a continued strong focus on managing supply in line with demand," Wandell said.

"Despite the decline in second-quarter retail motorcycle sales, we believe interest in the Harley-Davidson brand remains strong among riders of all generations. In fact, Harley-Davidson is the U.S. market share leader of on-road motorcycles among young adults. We will continue to focus our resources on expanding the global reach of the brand and developing new products that will reach even more riders going forward," Wandell said. "I would like to thank our employees for their continued hard work and support of our strategy."

Harley-Davidson Motorcycles and Related Products Segment
Second-Quarter Segment Results: Revenue from Harley-Davidson motorcycles during the second quarter of 2010 of $831.6 million was up 2.8 percent compared to the year-ago period. In line with guidance, the Company shipped 59,046 Harley-Davidson motorcycles to dealers and distributors worldwide during the quarter, compared to shipments of 58,179 motorcycles in the second quarter of 2009.

Revenue from Parts and Accessories totaled $231.8 million during the quarter, up 0.2 percent, and revenue from General Merchandise, which includes MotorClothes® apparel, was $67.4 million, down 3.2 percent compared to the year-ago period.

Gross margin was 35.0 percent in the second quarter, compared to 34.1 percent in the year-ago period.  Second-quarter operating margin decreased to 13.9 percent from 15.3 percent in the second quarter of 2009.

Six-Month Segment Results: Through the first six months of 2010, shipments of Harley-Davidson motorcycles were 112,720 units, a 15.2 percent decrease compared to last year's 132,849 units for the period. Revenue from Harley-Davidson motorcycles through six months was $1.64 billion, a 9.8 percent decrease compared to the year-ago period. Six-month P&A revenue was $380.9 million, a 5.0 percent decrease from the first half of 2009. General Merchandise revenue was $133.6 million, a 7.7 percent decrease compared to the same period in 2009. Gross margin through six months was 35.7 percent and operating margin was 13.1 percent, compared to 35.7 percent and 16.8 percent respectively in last year's first half.

Retail Harley-Davidson Motorcycle Sales
During the second quarter of 2010, dealer retail sales of new Harley-Davidson motorcycles decreased 5.5 percent worldwide, 8.4 percent in the U.S. and 0.2 percent in international markets, compared to the prior-year quarter. Second-quarter retail results reflect a sequential moderation in the rate of decline from the prior four quarters, although the basis for comparison has decreased over that period. Industry-wide U.S. heavyweight motorcycle (651cc-plus) retail unit sales decreased 10.1 percent in the second quarter compared to the year-ago period.

Through six months, worldwide retail sales of Harley-Davidson motorcycles decreased 10.7 percent compared to the prior-year period. U.S. retail sales of Harley-Davidson motorcycles decreased 15.3 percent for the first half of the year while the U.S. heavyweight market segment was down 14.7 percent for the same period, compared to the year-ago period. In international markets, retail sales of new Harley-Davidson motorcycles decreased 1.1 percent for the first six months of 2010 compared to 2009.

The Company reiterated its expectation to ship 201,000 to 212,000 Harley-Davidson motorcycles to dealers and distributors worldwide in 2010, a reduction of five to ten percent from 2009. In the third quarter of 2010, the Company expects to ship 53,000 to 58,000 Harley-Davidson motorcycles. Harley-Davidson now expects gross margin to be between 32.5 percent and 34.0 percent for the full year, versus the prior estimate of 32.0 percent to 33.5 percent. The Company continues to expect full-year capital expenditures of between $235 million and $255 million, including $95 million to $110 million to support restructuring activities.

Financial Services Segment
Second-quarter operating income from Financial Services was $60.8 million, compared to an operating loss of $90.5 million in the year-ago quarter. Last year's second-quarter results were affected by two non-recurring, non-cash charges totaling $101.1 million to establish a credit loss provision related to the reclassification of motorcycle loan receivables and to write off all HDFS goodwill. Through six months, operating income from Financial Services was $87.5 million, compared to an operating loss of $79.3 million in the first half of 2009.

Restructuring Update
The Company continues to expect previously announced restructuring activities begun in 2009 to result in total one-time charges of $430 million to $460 million into 2012, including charges of $175 million to $195 million in 2010. In 2010, the Company continues to expect savings of $135 million to $155 million from previously announced restructuring activities, increasing to expected annual ongoing savings of approximately $240 million to $260 million upon completion of these restructuring activities.

The Company and the unions representing its Wisconsin production employees are scheduled to begin negotiations this week on new labor agreements that would take effect upon the expiration of the current contracts in April 2012. Through the negotiation of new agreements, the Company seeks to close large cost gaps in its Milwaukee-area and Tomahawk production operations and improve flexibility to meet seasonal and other customer-driven production needs. If Harley-Davidson is unable to achieve those objectives through agreement with the unions by mid-September 2010, the Company has said it will move Wisconsin production operations to another U.S. location. The financial effects of a decision on Wisconsin production operations are not included in the restructuring costs and savings delineated above. The Company will provide updated cost and savings information at such time as it discloses a final decision on the Wisconsin operations. The Company will retain corporate headquarters, product development and the Harley-Davidson Museum in Milwaukee, regardless of the outcome of its decision on production operations.

 Income Tax Rate
The Company's second-quarter effective income tax rate from continuing operations was 29.2 percent compared to 59.9 percent in the same quarter last year.  The rate decrease was generally due to the non-recurrence of a $28.4 million non-deductible goodwill impairment charge incurred in the second quarter of 2009 as well as the favorable conclusion of an IRS audit in the second-quarter of 2010 and, in connection with the settlement, an adjustment to income taxes payable. The Company now expects its 2010 full-year effective tax rate from continuing operations to be approximately 36.0 percent.

Cash Flow
Cash and marketable securities totaled $1.50 billion as of June 27, 2010, compared to $1.02 billion at the end of last year's second quarter. Cash provided by operating activities of continuing operations was $726.0 million and capital expenditures were $45.8 million during the first half of 2010.

Discontinued Operations
The Company continues to be in discussions with potential buyers regarding its previously announced intention to sell MV Agusta. For the second quarter of 2010, Harley-Davidson, Inc. incurred a $68.1 million loss from discontinued operations, comprised of operating losses as well as a fair value adjustment of $61.5 million net of taxes. Including discontinued operations, the Company reported earnings per share of $0.30 in the second quarter of 2010. Through the first six months of 2010, Harley-Davidson, Inc. incurred a $103.5 million loss from discontinued operations. First-half earnings per share, including discontinued operations, were $0.45.

Company Background
Harley-Davidson, Inc. is the parent company for the group of companies doing business as Harley-Davidson Motor Company (HDMC), Harley-Davidson Financial Services (HDFS), Buell Motorcycle Company (Buell), and MV Agusta.
Conference Call and Webcast Presentation
Harley-Davidson will discuss second-quarter results on a Webcast at 8:00 a.m. CT today. The Webcast presentation will be posted prior to the call and can be accessed at http://investor.harley-davidson.com/. Click "Events and Presentations" under "Resources."

Forward-Looking Statements
The Company intends that certain matters discussed in this release are "forward-looking statements" intended to qualify for the safe harbor from liability established by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can generally be identified as such because the context of the statement will include words such as the Company "believes," "anticipates," "expects," "plans," or "estimates" or words of similar meaning. Similarly, statements that describe future plans, objectives, outlooks, targets, guidance or goals are also forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated as of the date of this release. Certain of such risks and uncertainties are described below. Shareholders, potential investors, and other readers are urged to consider these factors in evaluating the forward-looking statements and cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements included in this release are only made as of the date of this release, and the Company disclaims any obligation to publicly update such forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent events or circumstances.

The Company's ability to meet the targets and expectations noted depends upon, among other factors, the Company's ability to (i) execute its business strategy and divest certain company assets, (ii) effectively execute the Company's restructuring plans within expected costs and timing, (iii) successfully achieve with our labor unions flexible and cost-effective agreements to accomplish restructuring goals and long-term competitiveness, (iv) manage the risks that our independent dealers may have difficulty obtaining capital, and adjusting to the recession and slowdown in consumer demand,  (v) manage supply chain issues, (vi) anticipate the level of consumer confidence in the economy, (vii) continue to have access to reliable sources of capital funding and adjust to fluctuations in the cost of capital, (viii) manage the credit quality, the loan servicing and collection activities, and the recovery rates of HDFS' loan portfolio, (ix) continue to realize production efficiencies at its production facilities and manage operating costs including materials, labor and overhead, (x) manage production capacity and production changes, (xi) provide products, services and experiences that are successful in the marketplace, (xii) develop and implement sales and marketing plans that retain existing retail customers and attract new retail customers in an increasingly competitive marketplace, (xiii) sell all of its motorcycles and related products and services to its independent dealers, (xiv) continue to develop the capabilities of its distributor and dealer network, (xv) manage changes and prepare for requirements in legislative and regulatory environments for its products, services and operations, (xvi) adjust to fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates, interest rates and commodity prices, (xvii) adjust to healthcare inflation and reform, pension reform and tax changes, (xviii) retain and attract talented employees, (xix) detect any issues with our motorcycles or manufacturing processes to avoid delays in new model launches, recall campaigns, increased warranty costs or litigation, and (xx) implement and manage enterprise-wide information technology solutions and secure data contained in those systems.

In addition, the Company could experience delays or disruptions in its operations as a result of work stoppages, strikes, natural causes, terrorism or other factors. Other factors are described in risk factors that the Company has disclosed in documents previously filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Many of these risk factors are impacted by the current turbulent capital, credit and retail markets and our ability to adjust to the recession.

The Company's ability to sell its motorcycles and related products and services and to meet its financial expectations also depends on the ability of the Company's independent dealers to sell its motorcycles and related products and services to retail customers. The Company depends on the capability and financial capacity of its independent dealers and distributors to develop and implement effective retail sales plans to create demand for the motorcycles and related products and services they purchase from the Company. In addition, the Company's independent dealers and distributors may experience difficulties in operating their businesses and selling Harley-Davidson motorcycles and related products and services as a result of weather, economic conditions or other factors.


Source: Harley-Davidson.

AP reports that Harley Shares are up 12% on the news of a profit in the Finance Division.
http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5iby6HPwmtvHa0aEPTtDQb0Bm5KzQD9H2VTSO0

More about → H-D REPORTS SLIGHTLY BETTER NEWS

Pulling a sickie

The Dominion Post reports:

The so-called "mental health day" could become extinct under law changes allowing bosses who suspect a worker of pulling sickies to demand they front up with proof after only one day.

I was under the impression that bosses could do that already, provided they pay for the proof, normally a medical certificate. In fact at one government department I worked for, I was told to go to the doctor, at my own expense to prove I was sick after two days. I refused, as I understood the law to mean that a medical certificate had to be paid for by the employer, unless I had been away for three working days or more; ( I since found it was actually three three calender days) as per section 68 of the Holidays Act 2003. In any case, my boss refused to pay for the visit - perhaps because he had no reasonable grounds to suspect my sickness wasn't genuine

The article goes on:

However, the change, announced by the Government at the National Party's annual conference in Auckland, would allow bosses to require staff to provide proof they are really sick from day one. The employer would have to pay the cost of a doctor's visit.

But the Holiday's Act also states that an employer can already do that. The difference is that the employer has to reasonably suspect the employee is pulling a sickie; National wants to take reasonableness out of it.

At the end of the day, it doesn't matter. If the doctor thinks the employee was sick, the medical certificate will be furnished and a couple of hours productivity is lost. If the employer is pulling a sickie, and the doctor agrees, the medical certificate won't be furnished, so the employers reasonable test is only relevant to the decision-making process in paying for the doctor's visit. National thinks that test should be removed, provided that the employer still pays for the doctors visit.

The big thing wrong with that is that employers are encouraged to be pricks who act without considering reasonableness. They should also be made to pay for their employee's transport costs to visit the doctor, and if that is not included in the legislation, why on earth does it need changing?

Hat tip ( for jogging my memory) No Right Turn

More about →

Heidi Montag Showing Off Her Big Fake Tits

Be ready to drool! It's plastic surgery junkie Heidi Montag in a tank top! Jesus! Her big titties looks even bigger and more bouncier in that hot tank top! I don't care what they say about Heidi Montag, but like Max Hodges says (he's the blonde surfer guy on TMZ), after her operation all I can think about is shag Heidi Montag hard! I just want to go grope those huge jugs! See more of Heidi Montag inside Celebs Only and get access to thousands of nude photos and raunchy sex movies of your favorite female celebs!

More about → Heidi Montag Showing Off Her Big Fake Tits

Paul Holmes on well constructed writing

Paul Holmes comments on the National Standards and shows how he can write after looking at a blank screen.

Now I can feel fairly sure that in three or four hours this blank screen with be adorned with neat, well-spelled, well-punctuated words, phrases, sentences and nicely contained paragraphs. I hope there will be order.

He then goes on to say in the very next sentence:

They words might even say something with, I hope, minimal impediment of clumsy construction.

Clumsy construction, indeed.

More about →

PHILLIPS INJURED AT MOREE

Another tough outing for Cougar Bourbon Honda Thor Racing.

Cougar Bourbon Honda Thor Racing riders Todd Waters and Michael Phillips have both come away from the penultimate 2010 Australian MX Nationals event at Moree Motorcycle track bearing the scars of a tough days racing.

Waters, who finished 6th in the first 8-lap Pro Open race, tweaked his ankle in the second moto and was unable to race to his full potential.

The 19 year old then tweaked it again in the final race and was forced to retire.

“It was a tough day,” Waters admitted. “I qualified well and got some good starts in the first two races but once I tweaked my ankle I really struggled.

“Today’s outcome was the result of me making too many little mistakes, so I need to go away and work on those.

“I want to go to Coolum and have some fun and finish the motocross season on a good note. It is a track that I like and we are racing a double header,” he concluded.

Teammate Michael Phillips recorded three top ten race finishes but also had his fair share of drama.

The New Zealander was involved in a first corner crash in the third Pro Lites race and sustained a deep cut to the inside of his elbow which required medical attention.

“I was a bit disappointed with my first two races as the bike was awesome but I suffered arm pump,” Phillips explained.

“It was very pleasing to get back out for the final race and finish third. I felt like I rode a strong race and hopefully I can take that through to the final two rounds at Coolum this weekend.

“A big thanks to the Race Safe guys for patching me up and getting me back out for the final race,” he concluded.

Next weekend will see the series conclude with a double header at Coolum Pines Motocross Park. The final two rounds of the season will be held on Saturday 24th July and Sunday 25th July.

*MX Nationals Championship points were not available at the time of publication

Source: Cougar Racing

More about → PHILLIPS INJURED AT MOREE

Celeb Bitch Sophie Turner Looking Very Sexy

Aussie celebrity Sophie Turner wants to be a big hit in Tinseltown. But she's not doing it like ordinary celebrities who's ride to fame are via break through film performances or chart topping singles. She's having it the Paris Hilton way. Sophie Turner is going to conquer Hollywood using her huge jugs, slim waistline and big butt! This Australian cutie is just one fox in these sexy photos! She looks damn good in any profile, side view, front view, rear view... she's just one tasty view! See more of Sophie Turner and other gorgeous celebs showing off their kinkiness in hot nude pics and raunchy sex movies inside Celebs Only!

More about → Celeb Bitch Sophie Turner Looking Very Sexy

2011 GAS GAS EC ENDURO'S PREVIEW + VIDEO

Slipping under the radar here in New Zealand is the recently released PR from GasGas Motos.

Check out their gorgeous looking 2011 EC 250 & 300 with a newly designed front headlight. Other new features are adjustable SACHS 48 front forks, FMF Q-Stealth silencer, Sachs shock absorber and the improved cooling system with the new radiator cap.



2011 GasGas EC 250 / 300 2T | Enduro Specifications

Engine Single-cylinder 2-stroke, liquid cooled
Displacement 249,3 cc / 299,3 cc
Bore x stroke 66,4 x 72 mm / 72,5 x 72,5 mm
Gearbox 6 speed gearbox with foot control
Clutch Wet multiplate with hydraulic control
Carburettor Keihin 38 mm - Intake by reed valve
Frame Chrom-Molybdenum tubular frame
Swingarm Aluminium, Progressive linkage system
Front fork Sachs 48 mm Up-Side-Down, 295 mm travel
Adjustability Adjustable compression and rebound
Shock absorber Sachs hydraulic mono shock absorber
Adjustability Rebound, compression and spring preload
Suspension travel 310 mm rear wheel travel
Rim type Light aluminium spoke rim
Rim - tyre Front: 1.6 x 21 - 90/90 - 21
Rim - tyre Rear: 2.15 x 18 - 40/80 - 18
Front brake 260 mm wave floating, 2-piston caliper
Rear brake 220 mm wave disc, 1-piston caliper
Fuel 9,5 lt (2-stroke-oil/fuel mixed 1:50)
Dry weight 101 kg / 102 kg
Dimensions Length x width x height: 2.200 x 830 x 1.260 mm
Wheelbase 1.475 mm
Seat height 940 mm

More about → 2011 GAS GAS EC ENDURO'S PREVIEW + VIDEO

Minister wants education linked to jobs

Okay, the heading is misleading... it's not true at all. Tertiary Education minister Steven Joyce only wants the education that is on the back of state funding linked to jobs. And I agree that education should be linked to jobs.

What the Minister is reported to have said is that, ultimately, he would like to see funding based on how many of the previous year's students found work as a result of their qualification.Yet the minister, who completed his degree over a 22 year period, was one that didn't.

It's a shortsighted approach, particularly in the field of extramural education, which I have a bit to do with. A high proportion of extramural students already have jobs in the field they are studying , and finish their degree part time. Some are studying towards a qualification in a field they would like to enter, but already have jobs - and are not going to run away from that job until they can secure another one.

Its unlikely that funding for extramural institutions will be based on how many of the previous year's students found work in the field they are studying. I know of some students who have dropped out of their qualifications after securing jobs in their chosen field, without these qualifications.I know of others who have worked at Studylink because they were one of the 99 who missed out on each application for jobs in their field after graduating. I know of students who have studied midwifery that have then had kids. Does that count?

If university funding is based on completion and jobs, the model will fail - a third of students who finished university do not have a full time job six months later. Of the two thirds that do, it is not known what proportion is in the field of study. I wonder if this postgraduate student who did a thesis on the political blogosphere managed to get a job blogging six months after he finished.

Nah, he probably ended up at Vodafone or somewhere similar. Good on him, too.

More about →

WASHINGTON POST REPORTS 'SALES PLUMMET'

Respected US Newspaper The Washington Post has reported that 'Yamaha Motor Co., the world's second-largest motorcycle maker, said sales in North America and Europe may fall twice as much as forecast as a spreading debt crisis damps demand. The shares fell the most in three months.'

The report also cites Honda sales as down only 1% while Harley sales fell $US150M on the previous year.

Read the full article here

More about → WASHINGTON POST REPORTS 'SALES PLUMMET'

YAMAHA TO DEBUT ELECTRIC 'BIKE' IN SEPT.

Japanese Newspaper 'The Daily Yomiuri' reports:
Yamaha Motor Co. said Wednesday it will start selling its "EC-03" electric motorcycle on September 1st.
The company projects annual sales of 10 million units of the model, priced at 252,000 yen (around $NZ4,000). The bike is scheduled to be released in Taiwan and Europe begining next year, the company said.
As Honda Motor Co. plans to begin leasing its new electric motorcycle to domestic companies and other entities in December, eco-friendly motorcycles could become widely used.
Read more here.

More about → YAMAHA TO DEBUT ELECTRIC 'BIKE' IN SEPT.

Law to be changed as it is not used as intended

The Government is to change the claim of right defence so it cannot be used the way it was when three activists got off a criminal conviction when they damaged the Waihopai spybase.[Briefing paper [PDF]]. It intends to do this because the law, although applied correctly in the case, was not used as originally intended by Parliament.

So, to be consistent, lets change abortion laws to reflect the original intent of Parliament. And if it is clear that the abortion laws are not used as intended by Parliament, but the intent of Parliament has since changed, then the Government should put up the bill to change the law, as in the case of the claim of right defence.

Additionally, I note that Labour has publicised two bills recently, which have yet to be put into the parliamentary ballot. One is Clare Curran's Kiwi Jobs Bill, which has been widely publicised [and is here as a PDF], the other one, as Chris Trotter notes is one from former Womens Affairs and former associate Health Minister Steve Chadwick that seeks to amend our abortion laws. The bil has been drafted, and the Minister has discussed the bill with groups such as Family Planning,and the media.

But, like Phil Goff's comments on the bill, the bill itself, is nowhere to be seen.

Phil Goff said he hadn't given the matter much thought.Phil Goff was the spokesperson for Young Labour in 1977 when it actively opposed the current abortion law. Phil Goff got a reasonable amount of publicity on it back then.

Fast forward 21 years later for much thought.

As legislation relating to abortion is a conscience issue for Members of Parliament, it would be for individual parliamentarians to determine whether and in what form legislative amendments would be passed

More about →

Elizabet Hurley Has No Idea Her Nipple Is Hanging Out

The beautiful Elizabeth Hurley made a hot oops moment the other night! This pretty slut attended the Love Ball in London wearing a dress that made her left nipple completely out in the open. Isn't that really great of her to make us all notice her tasty stiff nipples? Her nip sure looks really delicious! See more of Elizabeth Hurley's sexy nipples inside Celebs Only and sign up today to see your favorite female celebrity bitches getting exposed in sexy nude pics and raunchy sex scandal movies!

More about → Elizabet Hurley Has No Idea Her Nipple Is Hanging Out

COOPER WINS TARAWERA 100

There has perhaps never been such a comprehensive win at the big Tarawera 100 dirt bike endurance race as was witnessed at this year’s edition, near Whakatane on Saturday.

Cody Cooper (MotoGB Suzuki RM-Z450) enjoyed a thrilling start-to-finish win at this 33rd annual running of the great race, leaping to the lead before the 218-rider field had even reached the first corner … and he never looked back from there.

The Mount Maunganui rider stretched his lead over Waitakere’s Shaun Fogarty to nearly two minutes by the end of the first of four 38-kilometre laps, raced over steep and undulating farmland at the tiny settlement of Te Teko.

Cooper rode flawlessly over his 152-kilometre journey and was never threatened over the gruelling race that lasted near three hours.

By race end, Cooper was more than three minutes in front of Fogarty, with last year’s Tarawera 100 champion, Cambridge’s Damien King, taking third place, another minute further back.

“The bike was so crisp. I skidded off the start and I thought I wouldn’t get away cleanly, but then it hooked up and that was that,” said Cooper.

“I have not raced this event in a few years – not since I won here in 2007 – but had nothing else to do this weekend and I do so much enjoy racing here,” said the 26-year-old.

“I wanted to be able to cruise a bit over the last lap, so that meant I had to do some work early on and build a bit of a buffer. That’s why I sprinted so much after the start. I knew I needed to get a bit of a gap on Fogarty and, besides that, I didn’t want to show him where I was going.”

Cooper heads back across the Tasman this coming weekend where he will tackle the next round of the Australian Motocross Championships. He is currently running sixth in the MX1 class in Australia.

Napier cross-country hero Lance O’Dea (Suzuki) finished eighth overall and was the top rider aged under-19, finishing ahead of Whakatane riders Conrad Edwards and Peter Smit in that race-within-a-race.

Source: Suzuki NZ. Photo by Andy McGechan, BikesportNZ.com

More about → COOPER WINS TARAWERA 100

Uni magazine’s inaccuracies confirmed by the Minister

Yesterday morning,, I rang up minister Steven Joyce’s office regarding yesterday’s inaccurate story in Salient regarding entitlement to student assistance, before I wrote this blog post. They weren`t aware of the story but said they’d get back to me. They didn’t but they did get back to NZPA confirming inaccuracies in the article, after the NZPA parroted a story picked up by the NZ Herald.

Joyce’s office made these points

* Generally, most conjoint degrees take less than 5 EFTS (effective full time student) to complete. An additional year for honours would take the student to 6 EFTS. However, if a masters study took them over the 7 EFTS limit, they would be given an additional one EFTS to finish their degree;
* Most students who complete a medical degree at Otago University will do 1 EFTS Health Sciences First year and then 5 EFTS for the remainder of the medical degree -- a total of 6 EFTS.
 A student who completes their degree and honours degree before going over their 7 EFTS limit will have one additional year of entitlement for masters study that takes them over the 7 EFTS limit.

The past few Salient editors have used a few EFTS - they have honours degrees. Obviously the current one doesn’t know much about EFTS.

More about →

HAMPTON DOWNS RIDE DAY – JULY 10TH

By Ollie S


The California Superbike School couldn’t have asked for better weather conditions on Saturday 10th July for their long awaited re-opening of their Hamptons Downs Ride Days. Despite the mercury slowing rising from a very frosty 3deg in the morning to a slightly more manageable 14deg in the afternoon there was huge turnout of riders from learners to pro’s mixing and mingling with unabated smiles.


The option to ride with other track warriors of similar skill and speed is a hugely popular draw card to the Hampton Downs Ride Days. Not only does it bring out learners and first timers but also pools a magnificent number of reconditioned classic road bikes. Focusing on track only experience, Darren Sweetman and his Californian Superbike School team enforce the track sessions are for track time only and any hint of racing, lap timing or inconsiderate riding is strongly governed.

KR was there testing several Hyosung’s and a new Yamaha R6, with BikeMart man Todd S also nabbing a ride on Sloan “Choppa” Frosts sensationally trick BMW 1000RR. We had Geoff Osborne firing off some frames for an up and coming test/feature, so look out for some cheeky offside images making it to the Kiwi Rider blog and Facebook pages soon.

If you attended the July 10th Hampton Downs Ride Day and looking for your own riding images don’t forget to head over to Andrew Bright’s Championship Digital webpage to view his magnificent work. Andrew attempted to cover all riders so if your picture comes up on his page jump in and have that knee scrub hanging on your office wall, no doubt the images will be tack sharp. The day was absolutely magnificent and the best money can buy on a world-class track.

The next Hampton Downs Ride Day is scheduled for Friday, August 13th. For more information and to guarantee a spot on the tarmac head over to www.hamptondownsridedays.co.nz and book a spot now. Hampton Downs Ride Days are operated by the California Superbike School and are independent of their training courses, although Darren and his friendly team are more than happy to offer advice. If your keen to learn the art of cornering or simply improve your tecniue and riding experience any one of the up and coming California Superbike Schools come highly recommended by Kiwi Rider Magazine. For more information or the California Superbike School course head over to www.californiasuperbikeschool.co.nz

More about → HAMPTON DOWNS RIDE DAY – JULY 10TH

Students are likely to have to fund their own Masters study?

Victoria University's Salient has popped up a story about eligibility to the student loans scheme for post graduate students.

Some future doctors and those seeking a higher education will be forced to fund some of their own studies after changes made to the Student Loan Scheme earlier this year.

In an exclusive statement to Salient, Tertiary Education Minister Steven Joyce admitted that the changes made to the Loan Scheme in Budget 2010 will mean that some students will not have access to student loans to cover their final years of study.

This is nothing new. There are limits on how long students can get a student loan and for the average student with a three year degree (and honours) this policy won't affect them. But the Salient article says the opposite.

The loan scheme restructure means students who complete a double degree and honours will likely need to fund any Masters study out of their own pocket, but may then be able to access funding for Doctorate study.

That is simply incorrect.

Most students will be unlikely to have to fund their own masters even if they did two degrees - anyway, most students would do a double major,which takes around the same time as a single major.

Most degrees take fewer than 5 EFTS (effective full time student) to complete. A student who studies full time for about 52 weeks a year is a 0.8 EFTS. An undergraduate can get the student loan for 7 EFTS, with a further 1 EFTS allowed for postgraduate study and 3 EFTS for doctoral study if these EFTS are unused.That's more than eight years of study. The same rules apply for the student allowance. So the average full time student studying to honours level will only run out of EFTS if he or she fails and then resits a good deal of papers - in a second degree.

Where the policy could affect students is post graduate study after degrees that take around seven years - such as medical studies. But it is blatantly incorrect to state that students who complete a double degree and honours will likely need to fund Masters out of their own pockets - with the implication that most students who have done honours will have to fork out for Masters.

You only have to look at the Cabinet papers to find that out. Obviously Salient didn't bother to do that.

More about →

Social networking

Here’s a trailer on an upcoming movie on social networking and Facebook

l

More about →

WHO TAKES STONER'S PLACE AT DUCATI?

By MICHAEL ESDAILE

WITH Casey Stoner's departure from the factory Ducati team at the end of this season (see separate story) who will replace him in the Italian team?

Speculation has been swirling for some time that the team wants Valentino Rossi, and with Phillip Morris cigarette money (Marlboro), there is reputed to be a 15 million Euro ($NZ 27 million) offer on the table for the convalescing Italian.

Rossi has never been happy having a team-mate capable of matching him, which was said to be one of the reasons Casey Stoner never got a look-in at Yamaha when he was looking for a ride at the end of the 2006 season. Now with Jorge Lorenzo becoming the dominant force on the Yamaha YZF-M1, Rossi is even less happy with the situation at Yamaha.

Add to this the traditional Italian desire to have a top level Italian rider on a winning Italian brand and there seems every chance that Rossi will go to Ducati.

It is most unlikely Yamaha would even think of matching the Marlboro Ducati offer at a time when it has been forced to close some of its factories and put others on part-time work. As much as they love having Rossi on their bikes, the top executives at Yamaha will ultimately ask one simple question: "how many bikes do we need to sell to pay Valentino's salary?"

Indeed, laid-off Yamaha workers have protested at several events where Rossi has appeared.

Right now we can expect Yamaha to be doing its utmost to re-sign Lorenzo, perhaps to a multi-year contract, rather than enter a biding war for Rossi's continued services.

Lorenzo, like Rossi, Stoner and Dani Pedrosa, is coming off contract at the end of this season. Marlboro Ducati reputedly offered him seven million Euro last season, and he admitted to being sorely tempted by the bid. By mid-August last year there was a report in Spanish publication Motocuatro reporting that the deal between Lorenzo and Marlboro has been agreed to in principle, with the finer details to be sorted. At that time, seven million Euro was said to be more than twice what Yamaha was paying Lorenzo.

However, after a lot of thought, Lorenzo decided that the Yamaha was the best bike on the grid and that would give him the best chance of winning a MotoGP championship - a wise choice for the 23-year-old Spaniard.

Still, it is logical that if Marlboro Ducati wanted Lorenzo last year, they would be no less keen to have his services in 2011, but would probably pay more for Rossi because of his huge global following.

Indeed, less than a month after it was announced that Lorenzo had turned down the Marlboro Ducati deal to stay with Yamaha, the Italian newspaper La Republica reported that that Valentino Rossi was talking to Ducati. The claim was that at 6.30 pm on September 14, 2009 an Audi S6 driven by Uccio Saluzzi, Rossi’s childhood friend and confidant, with Jeremy Burgess, sitting in the passenger seat, was seen entering Via Antonio Cavalieri Ducati at Borgo Panigale, the home of Ducati Motor Holding and that Rossi may have been sitting in the back seat.

The article also claimed there was a pre-contract with Ducati and that Fiat wanted to keep the Italian superstar. (Fiat is the title sponsor of the factory Yamaha MotoGP team).

However, when Rossi's Australian crew chief Jeremy Burgess was asked about the story, he was pretty forthright, describing it as "laughable."

"Lets break it down to what it is. It's a bunch of dickhead Italian journalists trying to out-scandal each other," he said. "Apparently I was seen in a car with Uccio and it had blacked out windows at the back, so the assumption was made that Valentino was in the back. But to be in Bologna the week when I was at home in Australia is laughable. I've got my plane ticket to prove it," Burgess said.

And commenting on the official MotoGP web site, MotoGP.com last September, Rossi had this to say about the Ducati rumours: “I haven’t decided yet about my future, I will decide in the next year (2010). I have a contract signed already with Yamaha (for 2010). For sure it is a great dream for everybody, to see Valentino with Ducati. We will see, I don’t know.”

However, in June this year, GPweek.com was claiming that according to an "undercover whisper" Casey Stoner's Ducati mechanics “have been warned that they may have to seek new employment for next season.”

That would imply that not only was Stoner leaving the team (since confirmed) but also that Rossi and his group of mechanics, led by Burgess, were being lined up to take his place. Rossi took Burgess and his mechanics with him from Honda to Yamaha at the end of 2003. Indeed, the Italian has never raced in the premier-class without Burgess and his crew, and they are considered an essential part of any 2011 Rossi deal. It was only after Rossi had managed to persaude Burgess to leave Honda that Rossi signed with Yamaha.

With Casey Stoner confirmed to be going to Honda in 2011, the only other rider of the top four who would be available to either Yamaha or Ducati is Dani Pedrosa.

More about → WHO TAKES STONER'S PLACE AT DUCATI?