Shortfall
New Zealanders, like their UK forebears are known for understating things. A major battle could be "a bit of a spat". In the paper this morning the local City Council spokesperson is talking about a shortfall in the budgeted amount for Rugby World Cup festivities. The budgeted amount was $100,000. It seems that now they will need $350,000, leaving a shortfall of $250,000. Debra Simes gives the reason for the shortfall and says... "That's the reason why the $100,000 [budget] is a little light." A little light? 250% light! or two and half times as much again light! In what planet is that "a little light"? Talk about understatement!
Knighthood for Richie McCaw
The Otago Daily Times article read; "Prime Minister John Key hopes Richie McCaw gets a knighthood if he steers the All Blacks to victory at the Rugby World cup." Let me say that I do not think honours should be dependent on "ifs". Things like knighthoods or medals should be handed out because of consistent quality of leadership and contribution to the game or community over a period of time. If Richie McCaw has done this he should get an honour whether or not the team wins in the 80 minutes of the final. It should not be dependent on an "if the team wins". Richie could play out of his skin, and the team could play the best game they have ever played, but another team might be better on the day. If Richie has given good consistent leadership to the team over the years and if he has contributed to the community he should get an honour whether or not the team wins. It cheapens the honour if it is dependent on just 80 minutes of play time.
These two things hit me as I read the paper over my porridge this morning
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