It’s a nice view . .

After all the recent meteorological troubles in China the authorities are getting along with repairs and maintenance of the power supplies. Here are a few [propaganda] shots – copied from QQ news – of power maintenance men at work in the Furtulon Forest [not sure if this name is correct] area of Wengyuan County, [...]

An Italian Hero

I was passing the time in a reading room recently, working my way through the newspapers of the day, as one does, filling in bits of crossword puzzles, dozing and drinking tea, though not necessarily in that order. Stuffed away in a corner was the remnants of a backcopy which I idly glanced through [...]

Take Note . . .

Lord Malloch-Brown has spoken up in support of Steven Spielberg’s decision to quit his post as adviser to the Beijing Oympic Games. By so doing he has forced China’s leaders to “sit up and take notice” and has “focussed minds”. If you don’t believe me it is all here in [...]

The Užupis Constitution

A few years ago the district of Užupis, in the city of Vilnius, declared itself to be an independent republic. A President and bishop were appointed, four flags were designed [one for each season], and a suitable constitution was duly drawn up. The 41 rights which form the constitution are engraved on mirrors, [...]

Future Masters

Some people have been talking about it, many others have been ignoring it, the majority still haven’t got their heads around it but it is happening now.

When China began its current economic revival and subsequent march to power for most people, myself included, this was something unimportant. It was happening thousands of miles way on [...]