|
Letters
August 2008
Homer's Presence in Australian Literature
Proof that Homer is alive and well beyond The Simpsons!
Lita
Brooklyn, NY
A brilliant examination into Homer's very real, lasting influence today that I'd never have even considered.
Kosta
Melbourne, Vic.
For Wheels Bad, Two Wheels Good
My wife has been upset for two years since I began engaging in an extra-marital affair with my Mercedes Benz carbon-fiber bike. Believe me, Mr. Cattell, you don't need that engagement ring just yet. Sell your newly won car for a good bike and you'll be mere seconds from bliss and good health so long as you've got the pedal-power to make it happen.
Mike
Honolulu, HI
July 2008
Church Of Scientology
Editor's Note: Paul St Paul's June article of his observations taken from an anti-Scientology protest in Toronto earlier this year prompted some of the most passionate reactions The Cud has received during our nearly four years online. Below are just a few examples of the contrasting opinions expressed to us via email. The bulk of emails we received -regardless of their position on the subject- were from anonymous email addresses but we have included some of those opinions here nonetheless.
Upon reading your article concerning the protest against Scientology, I was dismayed to hear that the message of the anti-Scientology movement was lost in the shuffle... The movement against Scientology is not protesting a religion, but rather a set of practices that the organization itself uses in order to silence critics, encourage growth of the religion and take money from their followers. Of particular merit are the objections to their tax-exempt status in the United States, their practices of shooing their followers away from legitimate medical treatment in favor of harmful and unsupported vitamin overdoses, and their harassment of critics - which, by the way, is the reason for the masks. It's actually preferable to most people to protest without masks, but those that have shown their faces at protests have found themselves receiving attorney's letters, being photographed by private investigators and generally harassed by Scientology.
Anonymous
As someone who has self-identified as a Scientologist since 1978... It was heartening to read the views of someone... who has taken the time to think through the implications of what he was seeing. I can only hope that you represent the majority of people and that everyone takes the time to reflect as thoughtfully on conflicts and debates that they encounter.
Lauren
Pickering, ON
(Regarding the Anonymous protester's use of masks)
There is a reason we wear them. And any protester would be able to answer this question: "Fair Game." Fair Game is a policy held by the Church of Scientology (though the name Fair Game was officially removed several years ago, the policy still stands as an unnamed rule) that encourages Scientologists to take action against any SP, or "Suppressive Person" who is trying to take action against the church. If you do not believe this, look up the name "Paulette Cooper" or "Operation Freakout."
Anonymous
Thank-you for sharing an all-too-rare voice in support of freedom of religion
Anonymous
… the protesters you came across did a poor job of explaining their cause and the author of the piece did about as much homework on the story as a cow probably would — as in none.
Anonymous
Perhaps it was because you "just wanted to go home" but I find it rather lazy that you did not research what Anonymous is or what it stands for.
Anonymous
Old Glory Wings To Glory On The Beach
… a wonderful journey into an aspect of America's aviation history that I'm sure could well have been soon forgotten but for Mr. Swartz's fine efforts
Thomas
Portland, ME
Ezy Reading: Of The Boston Celtics & A Grandmother's Orders
Thanks for the great story … my eyes kept tearing up reading about your story as I've also had the same feeling of cleansing since the Celtics won.
Jaime
Boston, MA
In Defiance of the Israel Lobby (April issue)
(Regarding the May letter from 'Justin')
I think Justin might take a less cavalier attitude if he would read The Israel Lobby by Mearsheimer (Harvard) and Walt ( University of Chicago). It scared the crap out of me. Made me wonder where this "political reality" is taking us.
Jim
Los Angeles, CA
June 2008
Why America Needs A President Barack Obama
Mr. Kanarakis is correct in his assertion that a 'leap of faith' is a great deal to ask of voters, but as we emerge from one of the darkest periods in recent American history, faith for the future and for better, prouder times is maybe the most important thing should all cling to.
Rosemary
Davenport, IA
Now that Barack Obama is the Democratic Party's nominee for President comes the fun part — dirty smear campaign tactics from the Republican Party! You just have to love American Presidential politics!
Peter
Manchester, NH
As a supporter of Hillary Clinton I have to admit at the moment that I'm fairly dented by Obama's nomination victory, but am genuinely alarmed and ashamed at how many of my fellow supporters are now claiming they will vote for John McCain come November — if they bother to even vote at all. The divide between Clinton and Obama on the one side and the Republican Party's McCain on the other is truly significant. Hillary herself has told us that she has far more in common with Obama than with McCain, and now is the time for us to absolutely set aside dented pride and bruised egos for the sake of our nation's welfare. I will be voting Democrat come November.
Karen
Miramar, FL
Examining Culture And Popular Culture In History
Lawrence Levine was one of the great (and, in my mind, still under-appreciated) historians of the last 50 years. Thank you for this excellent overview and reminder of his significant contributions to academia.
T.K.
Washington, D.C.
May 2008
Why I Am Not A Patriot
A clear and assertive expression against the perils of blind patriotism.
Kate
Virginia Beach, VA
While I concede Mr. Richardon's point about the importance of individual conviction, he fails to draw the important and necessary distinction between what is nationalism and what is patriotism, and instead places them both under the very same umbrella. The differences are significant.
Grant
Sydney, NSW
The Cud Letter Of The Month: In Defiance Of The Israel Lobby
I commend (Mr. Askew) for daring to take on the monolith that is the Israel Lobby. Today mere objection is rejected as anti-semitism, and with such reflexive aggression so too dies any chances for reasoned debate.
William
London, U.K.
Mr. Askew obviously is ignorant of the concept of political reality, no matter how regrettable causation may have been.
Justin
New York, NY
April 2008
Perceptions Of Democracy In The Modern World
A fascinating scholarly overview of the many influencing factors at play in the establishment and continued stability of a democratic government.
Victor
Melbourne, Australia
That an aspect so significant and obvious as culture has been wholly overlooked in America's efforts to force democracy upon parts of the Middle East without such a historical tradition is a basic blunder guaranteed to generate resistance, pure and simple.
Matt
London, England
Ezy Reading: Postcard On Seoul
As a resident of Seoul for the last three years I commend Mr. Kanarakis for his colorful description of one of the more manic parts of the city. Cinnamon tea has calmed me away from the mad rush that can dominate this city on many an occasion.
Jean
Seoul, South Korea
The Cud Letter Of The Month: When Will The Charades End?
Mr. Harding wrote, 'Two elections down, one to go'. Indeed. This next election (weary as many of us have understandably become by the extended lead-in) is critical to the welfare not just of Americans, but of the world at large. Should John McCain win the Presidency -not as slim a chance as many think- the United States' warmongering, bullying ways will be undoubtedly sure to continue.
James
La Crosse, WI
March 2008
Ezy Reading: The Politics Of Irrelevance
It has been striking in recent months just how sidelined Mr. Bush has become. Mr Kanarakis is correct: this is a dying Presidency through and through, it's just a shame we still have so long left to witness the death throes, because it is high time we moved on.
Joan
New York, NY
Never underestimate a fool who still has his hands at the controls. Lame duck? Perhaps, but it could just be a duck decoy full of potential for trouble still to come.
Marcus
Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Bronte's Heir
Thank you for this article on Heath Ledger, it captured my feelings with regards to his passing and the effect his work had on me. My grieving process involved watching as much of his work as I could get my hands on. His unfolding talent will be missed.
Lori
Salmon Arm, British Columbia
Why I Don't Support The Troops
Mr Richardson's thesis neglects to consider all those individuals who beyond any 'tradition' or sense of 'obligation' truly haven't had a choice available in entering into the armed services because of financial, educational, or even citizenship needs. If Mr Richardson thinks that the majority of U.S soldiers are in Iraq because of tradition and obligation and not stark social realities and available bribes for service, then he is truly naive.
Anne
Amherst, MA
'I am against the war but support the troops' has always struck me as a contradictory, if controversial-to-oppose tag line. Thank you for having the strength to make this point openly.
Rob
Antioch, CA
(Mr Richardson's article) was drivel of the purest form that completely forgets the trauma so many Vietnam veterans dealt with upon their unwelcome return home to America. Soldiers have always been instruments of the powerful few. To forget this and lay blame upon the troops who are merely doing their jobs -no matter how much you detest the work they do- is both ignorant and heartless.
George
London, England
February 2008
A Page From The History Of The Greek Presence In The Pacific Rim
I want to congratulate Mr G. Kanarakis for his excellent article "A Page From The History Of The Greek Presence In The Pacific Rim".
As a Greek living in Philippines, I have to add just a notice: There is a 3rd Adamson involved in the history of the Adamson University. George Athos Adamson was brother of Alexander Athos Adamson and of course cousin of George Lucas Adamson. George Athos Adamson and his wife Sophia are two more Greeks of diaspora we have to be proud of.
The official site of Adamson University states that "Adamson University was founded in 1932 by the late Dr. George Lucas Adamson, together with his cousins, Alexander Adamson and George Athos Adamson". (http://www.adamson.edu.ph/aboutus.shtml)
Stefanos
Manila, Philippines
A fascinating insight into an individual that enriched my appreciation for the reach and breadth of the Greek diaspora. Thank you.
Peter
Melbourne, Vic
Let’s Get Back To Education In Education — Too Many Experts and not Enough Show for the Dough
America's education system is in crisis, and I'd like to thank Mr. Fowler for drawing our attention to the troubling situation currently taking place in schools across this country. The Bush administration's report card on education reform in America is a clear fail.
Mary
Hartford, Connecticut
I'd like to also draw your attention to the challenges now posed to teaching and education by new technology. The Frontline documentary, Growing Up Online which screened nationally in America this January 22nd showed just how much traditional teaching methods -and real learning- are under threat by a faster-paced, technology driven world in which students readily consult crib-notes online at the expense of that traditional skill aspect known as 'reading'.
Jon
Boston, MA
It's Only Words
'I Am The Walrus' is a pop classic, but find me someone who can honestly interpret the meaning of that great tune. If The Beatles are guilty of lyrical cryptics, then certainly don't go looking for Shakespearean poetry in James freaking Blunt, because it ain't gonna' happen.
Leigh
London, England
December 2007 — January 2008
The Cud Turns Three:
Ed. — Our sincerest thanks to everyone who took the time to wish us all the best on reaching our third birthday milestone!
Congratulations on reaching an impressive short-term milestone in an era when most websites are lucky to last out their first six months of life.
Travis
New York, NY
The Cud has continued to impress me by the breadth and range of subjects covered and, above all, the quality and incisiveness of the writing. A fantastic website which I hope will only continue to grow from strength to strength.
Noel
Sydney, NSW
Happy Birthday and here's to many more years of Cud chewing. Congratulations!
Patricia
Cronulla, NSW
Thank you for bringing back some of my favorite articles of the past twelve months. Ezy Reading continues to be a real highlight.
Cam
Portland, ME
A spectacular 'best of' issue that, as a regular reader, I know only offered up a mere glimpse into a year's worth of outstanding writing. Keep it up!
Tracy
Rutland, VT
Patting ourselves on the back a little soon, perhaps? Dare I ask is The Cud is feeling a little too self-satisfied?
Andrew
London, U.K
(Ed. — No, not self-satisfied, just happy to be alive!!)
November 2007
The Cud On Film:
Three Classic Takes On Fascism — Roma, Citta Aperta, Il Conformista, and Lacombe, Lucien
Ms. Fournier's article reminded me of how rarely films are made today that feature any sort of subtext, symbolism or resonance that goes beyond a slapstick joke and a gratuitous shot of breasts or another high-octane explosion. These are three brilliant films that command attention.
Jenny
Melbourne, Vic
Rossellini was a master filmmaker, pure and simple.
Anton
New York, NY
An Open Letter To America's Sports Media
This NFL season the New England Patriots have been subjected to more gross over-exaggeration and misdirected analysis of any other sporting team in recent memory. That their exemplary play on the field is now being critiqued for being too good in defeating their opponents by far too great a margin is indicative of the entrenched jealousy within the sporting community and a lack of respect for greatness in an era that has perhaps been far too tainted and made fans cynical for doping, cheating, and fallen heroes. This is an amazing sporting team and a brilliant coach who deserve our applause.
Sam
Boston, MA
The Patriots have just played the greatest first half of a season in NFL history -this is not conjecture, it is fact. The American sports media need to wake up to this sooner than later, because the show that this team is putting on at the moment is one we rarely ever get to see in sports, and their missing it amid their screaming and self-righteousness.
Ronnie
Appleton, WI
October 2007
Walking The Thin Line To Liberty
Mr Cattell has written eloquently about moral culpability and civil disobedience but I fear his argument about the potential guilt of soldiers veers too closely to an idealism far departed from reality and the so-called fog of war. This is not to remove responsibility and accountability from our soldiers. That said, there lies within his thesis a grain of risk for what an unchecked military, constantly questioning military poses to democracy. To look for the truth in the sins of war we should always place our first focus firmly upon those behind the troops -politicians and statesmen will always have more blood on their hands than the man wielding a gun at the front line.
Pat
Sydney, NSW
Government accountability is undoubtedly one of the most important issues to have emerged from the post-9-11 period.
Prue
Austin, TX
In light of the recent Armenian genocide resolution controversy it is interesting too see how little time it has taken given America's fall from international grace for the Turkish government to gain so much leverage in terms of the conduct of their own affairs -and threats of future such conduct. Surely it is a fast developing issue to watch.
Kurt
Sydney, NSW
Rugby Mania
Ugly and exploitative as the media's handling of his situation was, Andrew Johns' revelation that he suffers from Bi-Polar can surely only help to better broaden people's awareness of the condition.
Maria
Munich, Germany
Ezy Reading: Looking For Truth In Empty Spaces
Role models in sport can still be found and they have a place, it's just a pity we need to look so hard to find them these days.
Lise
Copenhagen, Denmark
As a Vietnam Veteran I felt, this month, as George Bush invoked the Vietnam War in his defense of Iraq that he had, of all his extraordinary failures, at last committed his most egregious sin: he wholly dishonored the memory of my fallen brothers for the sake of his political fodder. It is one of the greatest regrets of the last several years that I ever voted for such an incompetent, arrogant fool.
"... the Patriots have traditionally been esteemed as a model franchise in terms of class and professionalism" I think given recent events, perhaps you should write a retraction..
Gordon
Sydney, NSW
And another one bites the dust. Thank you, Marion Jones, for tainting the memory of a brilliant 2000 Olympic Games.
Tara
Sydney, NSW
September 2007
Dude, Where's My Pub?
THANK-YOU for bringing some much-needed attention to the demise of the bar scene in Sydney. Though there are still a few hangers on here and there it really is starting to feel that within ten years we'll be unable to enjoy a beer in my beloved hometown in a pub that hasn't been re-done in an expensive, garish vomit of brass fittings, big mirrors and shiny surfaces. As ever, it's all about money, money, and money...
Pat
Sydney, NSW
If the unbelievably prohibitive costs of securing a liquor license in Sydney weren't so impossible we might see the city finally open a few of the diverse and interesting hole-in-the-wall type establishments that can be found in other cities worldwide, most notably New York. Diversity in Sydney's pub scene is sadly non-existent.
Robert
Sydney, NSW
Long live the Hotel Hollywood!!
Zoe
Sydney, NSW
This is one of those issues that just makes me incredibly sad and angry all at once. Bottom line, it's a disgrace that a city like Sydney -that claims to be a model to the rest of the world in terms of style, fashion, trends and livability- lags so completely behind other cities in the world, let alone Melbourne. If my only options to have a drink in Sydney consist of shiny rooms that fit 3,000 people, have chandeliers hanging from the ceiling, drinks cost $20 and most folks at the bar are tossers in cocktail dresses and suits then sod it, I'll drink at home.
Karen
Sydney, NSW
Causes & Legacy of the Greek Military Junta, 1967-1974
An informative overview of a troubled period in modern Greek history. Many thanks!
Maria
Munich, Germany
Lessons On The War In Iraq
I am sick and tired of left-wing commentators hammering the Republican party when their very own Democrats — in an overwhelming majority — voted to go war. Granted it has not gone to plan and there have been grave mistakes made, but this kind of elevated sense of righteousness is not only misplaced, but a denial of the truth of what really happened here, and 'I told you so' tactics will accomplish no good whatsoever. Let's deal with the here and now, please.
Theodore
Akron, OH
As a Vietnam Veteran I felt, this month, as George Bush invoked the Vietnam War in his defense of Iraq that he had, of all his extraordinary failures, at last committed his most egregious sin: he wholly dishonored the memory of my fallen brothers for the sake of his political fodder. It is one of the greatest regrets of the last several years that I ever voted for such an incompetent, arrogant fool.
John
Greenville, SC
August 2007
‘Anti-Democratic’ Behavior In Established Democracies
I felt that Ms. Tarkenton's article served as an excellent lead-in to the subject matter of Mr. Kanarakis' Scooter Libby piece. These days we are truly witness to a low point in American democracy.
Deanna
Bridgeport, CT
Ezy Reading: Scooter Libby and Defending By Misdirecting
Mr. Kanarakis presented an effective argument about the perils of rabid partisan infighting clouding the core of a matter. Many of America's politicians need to get out of D.C once in a while to regain their perspective on truth.
Ruth
Bristol, England
Exactly how left wing is The Cud getting these days?
Ted
Albany, NY
I concede the point that canceling one another's wrongs makes no right, but I did not like the potentially implicit suggestion in Mr. Kanarakis' thesis that just because the public's memory of President Clinton's past wrongdoing has faded that it would be erroneous to bring light upon them once more. Wrong ten years ago or wrong today is still wrong.
Gary
Columbus, GA
I cannot stress enough to your foreign readers how much living in America today it can feel like we are trapped within a bubble of political party and media misinformation from which no clear and substantial truths ever emerge. Thank you for clarifying one of the most important aspects of this entire Libby fiasco: Bush was not just plain wrong, but for all his rhetoric of protecting and spreading democracy throughout the globe he directly weakened America's democracy with this one ignorant, foolish precedent-for-the-future act.
Eleanor
Everett, WA
Finding ‘Community’ In The Australian Northern Territory
I'd like to know how Mr. Coorey really believes something like 'civic pride' can truly be taught by men armed with guns. There are always better ways than brute force.
Linda
Melbourne, VIC
July 2007
Controversy In History: On A.J.P Taylor's The Origins
Of The Second World War
And so the lessons of history and as enunciated in
Taylor's study continue to present themselves. How
much of the current and many crises in the Middle
East are related to errors of past policy?
Brendan
London, U.K.
Darfur Crisis: Mediation Failure and Alex De Waal
We 'hear' about the Darfur Crisis so often but rarely
hear about the specifics. Thank you for this
informative article.
Karen
Berlin, Germany
Ezy Reading- Now At Last
A sad, touching poem on love lost. Evan's poems
continue to inspire and affect!
Jess
Portland, ME
June 2007
A Soldier's Letter From Afghanistan
A revealing insight into what American troops are
dealing with in Afghanistan on a daily basis.
Thank-you.
Arlene
Los Angeles, CA
Publishing American Propaganda is not journalism or
even interesting... I am referring to the utterly
ridiculous story "A Soldier's Letter From
Afghanistan"... This arsehole who can "only smirk at
the burn victims injuries" has illegally invaded this
country to allow a pipeline from the Caspian sea gas
fields so AmeriKKKa's corporations can have the gas.
Before it was decided to invade, Taliban
representatives were hosted to the Bush Ranch in
Texas to discuss the pipeline. Then it was stated to
the Taliban that they could "have a carpet of Gold...
or a carpet of bombs" depending on their decision.
Well they obviously didn't want to sell out their
countrymen and the rest is history... These children
or so called 'terrorists' are trying to repel the
invaders. Much the same way as we would have done if
it was our resources that the US wanted. I would like
to guess that this was a piece written by a PR
company to make out that the 'good fight' was going
on as planned. Which we all know isn't true. There is
no justification for this rubbish to even be
acknowledged.
Richard
Sydney, NSW
One of the more disturbing insights I've read in a
while as to what happens when we send our young men
to war.
Tom
Boston, MA
Tales of Woe As Beijing '08 Draws Near...
Interesting reading. Now I know more than I ever
wanted to know about China.
Shirley
Erie, PA
Rolling With The Traceurs
Thanks for spreading the good word without a
sensationalist bent. The discipline needed to
practice parkour is such that we're not the louts and
reckless goons far too often depicted in the press by
people not willing to educate themselves on the true
heart of the activity.
Jim,
Tallahassee, FL
May 2007
The Cud On Australian History:
A Look At Henry Reynolds The Other Side Of The
Frontier-
Thank you for pointing your readers toward this most
fascinating piece of scholarship that should not be
limited to academia.
Sarah
Sydney, NSW
Looking Back With A Mind To The Present:
An Overview Of Americas Involvement In The Vietnam
Conflict-
Oh the parallels to the present! Must we continually
be cursed to repeat the same mistakes?
Jai
Colombo, Sri Lanka
Easter Ramblings
What a talented, entertaining and original writer
Steven Develter is!
Kristine
Århus, Denmark
No Family, No Heart, No Life
A sad, touching tale indeed. Thank-you.
Marcie
Spartanburg, SC
April 2007
Down And Out In Vancouver-
Born and bred in Vancouver I thank Mr. Finn for
drawing attention to some of the troubling truths
that exist in our city under the gloss and beaming
self-satisfaction we all-too-often dive into. Yes
there is much to be proud of in this town, but we
also have so much still to do, and ignorance or
sweeping of matters under the rug will never, has
never helped us.
Ben
Vancouver, B.C
On The Iraq War-
Bush has lost his prized 'political capital' of a few
years ago, so what can we call his unending
determination to 'stay the course' now with his
policies in the face of a Democratic congress and
tanking opinion polls? Stubbornness or stupidity?
Sometimes both characteristics are packaged together,
but I'd add blindness as well into this sick
collection of poisonous ingredients.
Don
New York, NY
March 2007
The Cud Interview: Steve Parkin
As two fans of Steve's music for years, going right
back to Autopilot, we would like to say THANK-YOU for
giving attention to this most brilliant and
under-appreciated of Oz musicians!!
Beck & Sarah
Perth, WA
The Dream That Goes Left
A fine piece that, while reading, made me feel like
I'd just consumed several high potency psychotropic
drugs. And I'm not complaining.
M.T
Sydney, NSW
A Modern Proposal To End All Spanking
As my grandfather used to say, nothing wrong with a
good beating to cure what ails ya!
Ed
Blue Springs, MO
February 2007
Flight to Damascus
Perhaps a better reason has just been presented for
George W. Bush to pull-back his space exploration
designs- or is it distractions?
Tracy
Rutland, VT
Five Ways Odds
Thank you for reminding us how stuck-up, deluded and
irrelevant half of the Eastern Suburbs of Sydney so
regularly appears to be! In that sea of Gucci, Audis,
sushi and designer flip-flops there's little
substance to be found.
David
Sydney, NSW
January 2007
Immigration With A Difference
An interesting article. One small error I noticed in
footnote 'v', however:
"The islands of the Dodecanese rejoined the Greek
state after World War II in 1948.".
The Dodecanese islands were never part of the Greek
state prior to 1948 so could not have REjoined, they
could have only joined in. In fact, they
self-governed under the Ottomans (not the same thing
as the Turks, or Turkey) until early in the 20th
Century when they became Italian terrority. In 1943
they were occupied by the Axis Powers and Allies
until the German surrender in 1945. After the
peacetreaty following the WWII, Italy ceded the
Islands to the Greek state in March 1948.
Mike
Copthorne, U.K
Ed.- The line should have read:
'The islands of the Dodecanese joined the modern
Greek state after World War II according to the terms
of the Treaty of Paris (1947).
So the argonauts were not merely the stuff of legend!
Peter
New York, NY
The Gap
You just made my beloved Doyle's fish and chips
luncheon with a beer chaser suddenly take on a
different feel altogether! Thanks for ruining my
favourite Sydney summertime destination!
Max
Sydney, NSW
Why The Caged Bird Sings For Black America
We can always do with review and reminder of the
classics, whether they be modern or not. Angelou's
book will resonate for many, many decades to come.
Thank you.
Karen
Columbus, GA
December 2006
Congratulations on making it to the ripe old age of
two! In the difficult and fickle world of cyberspace
years that's at least 7 years old! Keep up the good
work!
Tom
London, U.K
May we continue to 'Chew the Cud' for another two
years. And then some, I say!
Tan
Boston, MA
Where the hell is Ezy Reading?
Nicolas
Brisbane, QLD
(Ed.- Nicolas Ezy Reading has been on a long overdue
holiday but we can promise it will be back to weekly
updates in January!)
Congratulations on turning two but hey- when is the
cartoon page going to ever get updated??
Oliver
Sydney, NSW
(Ed.- Oliver, we're on it- expect a long overdue
update soon in the New Year!)
August 2005- Oxycontin: America's Hidden Drug
Epidemic
Over a year on, this article is still just as
relevant as ever, and a pertinent reminder of the
extent and reach of this horrible epidemic.
Mary
Portsmouth, N.H
November 2006-
Short Form Digital Content: The Demise of TV Dinners
Believe me, this Short Form Digital Content stuff is
a good thing. Today's attention spans among us young
kids are far too short to have the time to even
bother composing letters to the... [MESSAGE ENDS]
Robert
New York, NY
What is it telling us when we've miniaturized things
to such a degree that we now need to reach for a good
old magnifying glass to see what the ruddy hell it is
that's so technologically dazzling and amazing?
Cathy
London, U.K
Ezy Reading- Outing Rednecks In The Cradle of Liberty
I think the 'Cradle of Liberty' just got a healthy
shake-up thanks to the U.S mid-year elections...
Perhaps fucking off to France can be put on hold for
a moment for Mr. Kane just in case it's still safe
for him to stay?
Pete
Sydney, NSW
October 2006
Searching for the Aussie Male Identity
I agree with Mr Kanarakis... Steve Irwin sounded like
a decent bloke to me as well. It's so easy for people
to pigeon-hole him as a guy who from his line of work
"had it coming". Or to consider him someone we as
Australians don't want to see ourselves as (Am I
Steve Irwin? Are you Steve Irwin? Overall the answer
is no, but as the poem in his memorial service
offered "...there's a bit of Irwin in us all"). So to
all those who question, claim he had it coming, or
even dismiss him for being a clown, I say sod off.
Because if you take away the hype you're still left
with a real tragedy... Essentially he was a guy who
had a beautiful young family that he clearly adored
and loved with as much energy and enthusiasm as any
crocodile he encountered in the Kimberly. His family
lost their father, and now have to ditch some of
their plans and hopes for the future and rekindle the
enthusiasm to start in a new direction without a
dad/loving husband.
Lets also remember that there have been just three
reported cases of people dying like this... ever! He
was simply unlucky.
So from that base let's build.... Irwin was also a
guy who was so passionate about making a difference
in the wilderness that he spent his many millions on
buying vast tracts of farm land and converting them
back into bush and scrub for wild native species to
thrive - planting thousands of trees and
reintroducing animals. Personally, I've never met
ANYONE who would be willing to do something like
that. On top of this he transformed a tiny little
reptile park on the side of a highway into one of the
premier tourist destinations in the country - all to
spread the good word about what he believed in.
And how did he do this? Firstly, it was through hard
work and dedication. Second, he was SO appealing to
SO many people... to kids he was essentially a
cartoon character, and to parents he entertained the
kids for a while and gave us something to talk about
('you either love him or you think he's a wally').
Either way he was no ignorant fool, not at all a bad
person and to me he seemed like the real deal - a
"decent bloke" to quote Mr Kanarakis.
And as for Ms. Greer's comments about Irwin... Well
how much of an Aussie bogan could he have really been
when he didn't even drink!?!
Tim
Sydney, NSW
Thoughts On The Mountain King
Thanks for the article on Brocky. I was a Holden man
-same reason, my Dad (and his Dad) had a Holden.
Given how fanatical I was (read, my Dad was!) about
motor racing, he was my childhood hero.
I have read he was paranoid about growing old -
didn't really want to. Fate was kind to him. He died
quickly doing what he loved, leaving grown up
children and a wife he had grown apart from that
still respected and loved him.
What a top Aussie.
Andrew,
London, U.K
September 2006
The Future of Marriage
In an era of such excess, the cult of celebrity
and idolatry, and the cheap, short term aesthetic
taking precedence over matters of substance, it wa
incredibly refreshing to find such a liberating
perspective on marriage from a man of the cloth that
wasn't laden in fire and brimstone and instead based
upon good, common sense and an obvious and genuine
care for the well-being of the men and women in his
community. It is to be commended.
Ken
Sydney, NSW
Why The World Doesn't Need
Superman
Far be it from me to be critical of a colleague's
work but I got a very different message from Superman
Returns. Yes Brandon Routh looks like Christopher
Reeve's younger brother; yes Kate Bosworth was the
weakest actor in the whole movie, but I didn't look
at it as a commentary on Islamic Terrorism vs the
American Way.
The message I got from it was that America is
trying to promote its values but is having a hard
time of it because it doesn't know what its values
are any more nor how to promote them. Three scenes
spoke of that to me:
1. The flashbacks to Krypton and Superman's
father. The biblical imagery here is unmistakable.
The message of the father is to be passed on through
the son. America still sees itself as the world's
protector of truth and freedom.
2. Superman returns to Metropolis to find
Lois living with her fiance and they have a son. It's
a very different world now (post Sept. 11). Will the
"old ways" still work? After a few rescues Perry
White, Lois and Jimmy ask the obvious question, "Is
he still fighting for Truth Justice and all that
stuff". That single line shows how the world has
changed. Is the "American Way" still the best
way?
3. At the end of the film we realise that
Superman is in fact the father of Lois' son. The
world is far more complicated now and even the values
of the past are either being challenged or
jettisoned all together.
I thought Superman Returns was the best Superman
movie by far. The special effects, the acting etc
were all excellent. I liked it because it asked a
number of provocative questions that challenged long
held assumptions about American imperialism. It
acknowledged that the world is far more complicated
than ever before and perhaps new answers and new ways
are needed to address this new age. It will be
interesting to see if "Superman Returns 2" (or
"Superman - Still Here") advances this debate.
Neil
Sydney, NSW
The Cud On Film: World Trade Center
After watching President Bush's September 11
speech to the nation tonight I felt sick to my
stomach. Here he took an opportunity to pay tribute
to the victims of 9-11 and the still unfinished task
of holding accountable those who caused the tragic
events of that day, but instead he chose to deliver
an election-driven political rant about the need to
stay committed to his war in Iraq- a venture that had
nothing to do with Al Qaeda, a venture that has
instead made the world far more dangerous than it was
before 2001, and a venture that dishonors those who
died five years ago and are still dying today. Maybe
Oliver Stone's film, for all its flaws, and all the
miseries it will still remind us of that prevail
today can be seen at the very least as a small but
welcome respite for audiences in exhausting times: We
need to know that there have been some inspiring and
good tales to emerge from the ruins of Ground Zero,
and by God I'll take anything positive on offer at
the moment to help appease this frustration, pain and
anger.
Richard
New York, NY
August 2006
X Marks The Spot: Successful You Tube
Advertising
Innovative marketing and promotion this might be,
but it still hasn't saved us from one of the most
tired, uninspired movie summers in years. Maybe if
these production houses focused more on rediscovering
the craft of storytelling they wouldn't need all
these exotic and new promotion gimmicks...
Ken, Columbus, OH
One Year Inside The Land of the Free
We would happily welcome Mr. Kanarakis into
Canada. We're not as messed up as those folks south
of the border.
Martine, Quebec City, Quebec
Maybe you should look at what ails Australia
before rushing to judge America. Last I looked, you
guys weren't looking so hot, either. Race riots,
anyone?
Jack, Lexington, KY
After spending the past six
months traveling through the United States and having
only just returned to New Zealand, I can say this: it
takes more than eight showers to shake the experience
off, because it hasn't left me yet. What a sad, mixed
up country. We can only hope for a turn in their
direction!...
Rowan, Auckland, New Zealand
July 2006
The Cud Interview- The Bangles' Vicki
Petersen
For those of us who had been wondering what ever
happened to The Bangles, thank-you for pointing us in
the direction of their recent, strong
revival!
Craig, London, England
Having caught their show at the Enmore Theatre in
Sydney last year I can attest to the fact The Bangles
are indeed back, and as amazing as they were back in
the 80's!
James, Sydney, NSW
For all Ms. Peterson's talk of trying to avoid
'80's exploitation', the band are appearing on July
22 in Alhambra, California as part of a 'Flashback
80's' concert! Um... What gives??
Jim, Los Angeles, CA
... those not familiar with The Bangles' most
recent album, 'Doll Revolution', would do well to go
out and grab a copy. It provides plenty of further
evidence against those who still think they were just
another gimmick 'Walk Like An Egyptian' 80's
act.
Helen, Apple Valley, CA
Tour Photo Diary- The Grates
Of course Oldham is a dive, tell us something we
don't know!
Pete, Cardiff, Wales
June 2006
The Excrement Flows Forth- Politics Goes Online
If you asked me ten years ago if I'd soon be
getting most of my information on politics and social
issues from the web, I'd have laughed at you. Now
sites like moveon.org are a frequent
necessity.
Christina, Rochester, NY
Who needs a lectern and a megaphone when they can
reach the same audience with a blog? It's a new game
altogether.
Mike, Sydney, NSW
So long as there is always an elderly population
lacking the skills and patience to deal with
technology like the internet and using a computer,
and so long as there is always a significant global
underclass too poor to own, let alone have ever even
used a computer at length, politicians will still
need to be out on the streets, door knocking,
dropping leaflets and kissing babies.
Tracy, San Francisco, CA
In The Evening- A Night Of Electric Chamber Cello
Thank you for educating me on the finer aspects
-and future possibilities!- of the cello.
Jessica, Perth, WA
May 2006
But What Will The Hobos Use For Blankets?
I live for the day when those hobos'
electronic-newsprint blankets tell them what colour
their benches will soon be painted. My
compliments!
Vin Crosbie
Managing Partner, Digital Deliverance LLC
Greenwich, CT
Post Tsunami Sri Lanka-
15 months On
I am writing to you to provide information of a
Tsunami Housing project we have undertaken in
Peraliya village (where the train was washed
away).
I represent a UK registered Charity " HELA SARANA" (
meaning helping Sri Lanka) formed in 1996 by a group
of Sri Lankans living in the UK.
Prior to the Tsunami we were building irrigation
tanks, low cost housing projects, school buildings,
hospital buildings and establishing education
scholarship projects all over Sri Lanka.
After the tsunami we undertook to build 100 houses in
two phases in the Peraliya village. I am happy to say
that we completed Phase 1- 52 houses, and handed them
over to the distressed families on 30 October 2005.
Under Phase 2 we have completed another 15 houses and
the rest is under construction in batches.
The average cost of a house was £ 1500 for Phase 1
but due to logistical problems and various other
factors we envisage a cost of £ 2000 per house for
Phase 2. We received funds from corporate and private
donors and still we are trying hard to collect funds
for the remaining houses.
We do not build standard type homes but as per the
wishes of the families we are building them in the
same area but away from 100m zone. We also get the
families involved in the construction to reduce
labour costs. We have employed a gang of carpenters
and masons from the village itself giving them
continuous employment.
Included are some photos of some of our completed
houses with their new recipients.
Leslie Dep, Peraliya, Sri Lanka
For further information about the Hela Sarana charity
please visit:
http://www.helasarana.org.uk/
April 2006
The Cud Essay: Garveyism and the UNIA in
early 20th Century America
What a shame that, even with all his faults,
Marcus Garvey is somewhat forgotten in the historical
landscape of African-Americans. Thank you for a
reminder into his work and legacy.
Maria, Alhambra, CA
Ezy Reading, Monday April 3rd- 'The Doctor Is
Not In Unless You Have The Cash...'
As a general practice physician in the United
States for over twenty years I commend you for
another important insight into the bleak, wretched
state of this country's public health care system. It
has been consistently the most forgotten, most
defeated issue in American politics for as long as I
can remember.
Alan, Boston, MA
March 2006
For God, Country & Profit?
Our article in February about the suicide of U.S
Marine Corps Col. T.S Westhusing in Iraq prompted a
rush of correspondence to the Cud, some readers
appreciative of the piece, others deeply angry. A few
of those:
While the face of modern warfare has changed, big
business always played a role. Deal with it and move
on instead of looking for scandal when it isn't
there.
Cam, Amarillo, YX
You draw too long a bow to claim the suicide of
one man as evidence of an administration's absence of
ethics and morality.
J.L, Newcastle, U.K
What a tragic loss. That we could have more
philosophers and clear thinkers in our military
forces!
Lisa, Sydney, NSW
It appears the U.S military's psychologists need
therapy.
Daniel, Canberra, A.C.T
How can class and concern and taking the moral
high ground claim such a valuable solider and special
life? We should be ashamed.
Grant, Tacoma, WA
Whistleblowers and the media: the Bush
administration's new 'enemies' in the war on
terror...
T.C, Melbourne, VIC
Pablo Neruda and the Poetry of South
American Love
Thanks for doing this excellent article.
Rus Bowden, Washington, D.C
Columnist, 'Poetry and Poets in Rags', IBPC
Newswire
February 2006
A Literature Review On The
Road
It seems my reading habits have been most
deficient- thank you for some fine
suggestions!
Anthony, Sydney, NSW
He Said/She Said
What a sad, effective reminder of the miseries of
troubled love. Well done!
Carol, Sydney, NSW
January 2006
Message In A Bottle
Hear, hear, Nanna Grumbles! The sooner we
diverted our money spent on buying water toward
cleaning up the world's larger supply the sooner we
get rid of the accursed bottles!
Ron, Sydney, NSW
The Songs That Bind
I'm not sure what it tells us about society today
if most folk look to football stadiums as the new
cathedrals, but thank you for your enjoyable insight
into hymnology.
Rhonda, Ithaca, NY
As someone who was hoarse for three days after
singing 'Cheer, cheer the Red and the White' at the
AFL Grand Final in 2005 I can assure you I never in
my life sang like that in church.
Mark, Canberra, A.C.T
December 2005
Slipping Past The Point of No
Return?
With evil magicians like this, never count them
out in a fight for survival. They'll push plenty of
other heads under water before they drown, just you
wait and see.
James, New York, NY
As a Republican voter, I just hope the current
administration doesn't screw up enough to ruin things
in 2008 for my man John McCain. But then again, if
Hilary runs, we've got nothing to worry about,
because there's no way another Clinton is getting let
back into the White House. It'd be like shooting fish
in a barrel. Your husband was lecherous? KAPOW! You
husband left our military defenseless? KAPOW! Your
husband might still have input in policy matters?
KAPOW! Republican campaign strategists are already
licking their lips in anticipation of such an easy
target.
Ron, San Antonio, TX.
At last we get to watch him really squirm. What a
joy it is to see the public -and the world- finally,
indisputably wake up to the smoke and mirrors
President we've had for far too long.
Laura, Burlington, VT.
Disabled Not Dead
Thank you, Mr. Taverne, for sharing a most
insightful, sweet, and personal account of your
disability.
Karen, Sydney, NSW.
A Dad To Be Attempts to Answer A
Child's Questions
What a fun adventure into the dizzy head space of
a new parent. I can assure you, so long as you add
water, provide sunlight, and impart wisdom (the
hardest of the three) everything will work out just
fine!
William, Cardiff, Wales.
November
2005
Hallelujah
... How this most
important issue of maintaining separation of Church
and State has been so seemingly forgotten in recent
years is a miracle of Biblical
proportions.
David,
Brisbane, Qld.
Letters on
Oxycontin
Thank you for
publishing the letters from my fellow victims of the
ongoing OxyContin tragedy (Ed Bisch, Steve Gelfand,
Darlene Taylor). They, like myself, have lost loved
ones to this drug and have been fighting ever since
to wake up the FDA, Purdue Pharma, the medical
community and the public to the travesty that has
been perpetrated upon us with regard to
OxyContin.
I lost my 24 year old son, Patrick Stewart, on July
9, 2004 in San Diego after he took just ONE
OxyContin. His friends say that he had never taken
one before. His toxicology report showed no other
drugs in his system and alcohol equivalent to just
one beer. He died in his sleep from respiratory
failure. He was an SDSU graduate, a graphic designer,
a certified personal trainer and a young man full of
love and promise.
After Patricks death I read, researched and
ultimately submitted Citizen Petition 2005P-076 to
the FDA requesting changes to be made regarding
OxyContin and its more potent cousin Palladone
(also manufactured by Purdue Pharma). I, and others
across the country have informed legislators and the
public of the petition and garnered support from
them. The Citizen Petition was submitted as written
testimony at the Massachussetts OxyContin Commission
hearings. As required, the FDA responded to my
petition within 180 days, stating that because of the
complexity of the issues they needed more time to
review the requests of my petition. I am attaching a
copy of the petition FYI. The FDA has since,
temporarily removed Palladone from the market (one of
four requests in the petition, but has yet to make
any changes regarding OxyContin)
On November 10, 2005 the Anesthetic Advisory
Committee (to the FDA) will be meeting in closed
session. The public is not privy to the agenda but
there will be an open comment session for one hour
prior to the closed meeting. I , and others, have
been pushing for over a year for this committee to
meet to review the OxyContin problems once again as
the FDA most often acts upon the recommendations of
this committee. I will not be able to make it to the
public meeting but urge anyone with something to say
regarding additional restrictions to OxyContin and/or
support for Citizen Petition 2005P-076 to attend the
meeting and speak their piece.
The time is ripe for changes to be made regarding
OxyContin. The FDA must uphold its responsibility to
its citizens. Please make your support for Citizen
Petition 2005-076 known to the FDA and attend and
speak out at the Nov. 10 Anesthetic Advisory
Committee meeting.
Barbara
Folsom, CA
I lost my SON Chad
Gregory Gardiner my first born on May 28th 2004. He
had just turned 26 on May 7th.
Prescribed a Powerful addictive form of HEROIN
...Oxycontin.
Addicted , Tormented & suffering.
Took his own life by jumping off a parking garage
downtown London, Ontario, Canada.
I hold PURDUE PHARMA & OUR FAMILY doctor
responsible in my son's death.
They have pushed their lies long enough.
Linda
Gardiner
Founder & Director Of WWW.OXYABUSEKILLS.CA and The "Chad
Gregory" Foundation
London, Ontario
Postcard from Russia
Maryam d'Abo?!? My
God man, why look further than Barbara Bach? Greatest
Bond girl ever, and as Anya Amasova THAT was a real
reason to visit Russia in search of similarly
'talented' KGB agents.
Gerard, Omaha,
NE
October
2005
Live
Strong
Recently spotted on a
bright pink wristband in a New York bar:
'No cause. Just looks
cool'.
Jack,
New York, NY
Of Rock and
Roll Influences
Thank you for your
assurance that when I repeatedly tell my kids Ashlee
Simpson is a rotten phony who wouldn't know real
music from a banana... I'm right!!
Tracy,
Perth, WA
September
2005
Oxycontin
I
appreciated your thorough overview of a drug epidemic
that so few of us in Australia would ever have heard
of.
Jeff,
Sydney, NSW
Once, Twice,
Three Times a Conspiracy
That America and the rest of the world is reeling
under the pressure of rising gas prices while Saudi
Arabians are reported to be spending little more than
8 U.S cents a gallon speaks volumes of the gross
incompetence of a U.S President who is said to be on
such close terms with the Saudi regime. Instead, he
is looking to drill into more of his own nation's
protected nature reserves when the oil is readily
available at a cheaper price from the Middle East
should he ever discover what diplomacy and the use of
historical ties to secure gains is for an intelligent
leader.
Andrew
Burlington, Vermont
August
2005
An Essay From
The Home Front
Any American not
acquainted with the war in Iraq after the tragic
losses of the first week of August alone is either
living in a cave, or wearing Republican party
blinders.
Sandy
Portland, Oregon
The BBC...
Fair and Balanced?
While I agree with
(Mr. Lee) on many points... this one phrase pops out
as misguided:
...Again, whilst the
BBC's coverage was factual in its coverage of the
speech, the fact that they accept and use the terms
that Bush and the US government use, leads the viewer
to have an unbalanced view of the situation. Iraq is
free and independent, and any Iraqi who doesn't agree
is a ...terrorist insurgent....
May I remind Mr. Lee
that it is the media's job to report things just as
they were said. If Bush claimed aliens landed in his
underpants they must (or should) report he said that.
I don't need my reporters in the media to tell me
whether they think his claims are valid or not, I can
do that thinking myself, as most thinking people
worth half a wit should. I think the media would be
performing a huge disservice if they had to opine on
the validity of news rather than just the exact news
itself. Once they opine, it ceases to be news, and
becomes opinion.
Mr. Lee should give
readers more credit to shift through the crap.
As
for Americans being proud to claim they watch the BBC
over Fox news because it is ...fair and balanced...,
it's not so much pride but desperation. The select
few of us Americans who dare use their brains here
are crying out for real news. Have pity.
Smart people should
gain their news through many outlets, should learn to
look through the spin in each one, and think for
themselves ultimately.
Kristin
Hollywood, Florida
July
2005
Drama of Profound Pain
in Darfur
We can only hope the forthcoming G8 summit in
Gleneagle will address the devastation currently
sweeping through Darfur and not be what we might
otherwise cynically expect it to be: further 'conquer
and divide' politics of self'interest for the
wealthy.
Leslie, Sydney
The Real Cost of Watching the Sport at the
Pub: A Dangerous Game
Next on the list of folks that should be forced out
of the footy stadium: The 'fan' that incessantly
screams 'Kick it!! Kick it!!!' only for the player in
question to pass the ball and set up an immediate
try. The well'informed 'fan' is then to be found
clapping in celebration, his eyes darting around
furiously in the hope that no one caught his gaffe.
Just pitiful. Shut up and eat your pie!
Evan, Sydney
June
2005
Three Days
after the Tsunami: The 26th ' 28th December,
2004
Having arrived in Thailand just three days before the
tsunami hit I can appreciate the scope of what Mr.
Mahesh must have witnessed in Sri Lanka. A truly
devastating, unreal tragedy.
Andrew, Sydney
Ezy Reading:
True Tales from the Pub Rock Circuit #392: May
16
What a shame that more bands lost in yet another
shoe'gazing exercise, trying out tired old riffs and
imitating rubbish that has only sold because it was
forced down ignorant teenagers' throats never paid
more attention to a band like Grover Jones & The
Art of Siegecraft. They sound like true
originals!
Matt, Sydney
''''
May 2005
Paul
Wolfowitz and John Bolton: Thuggery afoot in the
World Bank & United Nations
During the recent confirmation hearings assessing
John Bolton's suitability as ambassador to the U.N
Carl Ford, former State Department intelligence chief
referred to Bolton as a ...kiss'up, kick'down sort of
guy... who ...abuses his authority with little
people.... What a fine representative for America. A
bully for the ages.
Robert, New York
Confident, ambitious
and willing to rustle feathers to get what they want.
Tell me how such traits are unsuitable for the tough
tasks ahead in the World Bank and U.N?
Craig, Sydney
'John Paul
the Great'? The Legacy of Pope John Paul
II
John Paul II the received more global exposure than
any other Pope in history. Perhaps with that in mind,
and so many microscopes now available to assess his
legacy that never existed one hundred, fifty, or even
ten years ago, we should be mindful of just how
dramatic an improvement he was on past Papal leaders,
leaders who had the benefit of being free from such
scrutiny.
Charles, Sydney
Benedict the XVI? So
the conservative legacy of John Paul II is indeed
destined to continue.
Mary, San Francisco
A Letter
From Gallipoli 6/11/97
What a disappointment it was to see how much of a
farce the Gallipoli celebrations became this year,
what with Bee Gees videos on the super'screen, laser
light shows, and enough rubbish left behind to fill
ten landfills. At least Mr. Gerber's thoughtful piece
revealed a visitor who understood the importance of
Gallipoli.
David, Sydney
Thank you
so much for your web page on Vic
Hislop.
http://www.thecud.com.au/html/story23.htm
Just wanted to email
myself and tell you I have never read so much
bullshit in one web page.
All of the information
you present is incorrect and anyone who visits Vics
exhibition in either Airlie Beach or Hervey Bay will
be able to see you are a site that is non factual and
full of sh!t.,
Just wanted you to
know that you are appearing as you deserve to be on
the internet. A site with no credibility that goes to
absolutely no trouble to investigate the facts on
what you are posting and a site that can only be
laughed at in regards to any factual information
whatsoever.
Your site is a
joke.
Good luck there are
plenty of people who love crappy reporting and
stories full of misinformation.
I
am sure you have a good following.
But be
assured........we are not of that following.
Croc
April 2005
In
April The Cud received its heaviest influx of mail
yet, and it was practically ALL pertaining to Evan
Kanarakis' article 'America's
Pressure on Iran' of March 1.
| 
