Annabelle

Annabelle just could not understand why everyone found her new head accessory so amusing. How strange grown ups are.

Stop complaining about the cold

My thanks to the residents that sent in a few pictures of places residents really are justified in complaining about the weather.....

Some kind soul just warming the car up before going to work... checking its the right car first of course.

Hope they remembered to put the de-icer in. Wonder if they got it defrosted before the restricted parking limit expired.

Drawing a women from the inside out

This is seriously clever. Sent to me by a woman of course. But I bet the artist was a man!

http://fcmx.net/vec/get.swf?i=003702

Council Tax

Rushmoor has released the following Press Release:

Rushmoor Council is reviewing its spending plans for next year to limit the increase in Council Tax.

The Council’s Cabinet heard on Tuesday that at present, its budget would lead to a rise of just over 12p a week for residents – an increase of 3.9%, which is less than the current retail price index of 4.4%. The Cabinet agreed a strategy to review its costs and will consider the position again at its meeting on 6 February.

The Council has been hit by increasing costs of services, especially concessionary travel and energy costs. It has also fared poorly in the government’s grant settlement, which gave it a cash increase of just 1.9%.

The strategy agreed by the Cabinet includes reducing Council costs by further improvements in efficiency, reductions in lower priority services and reviewing its fees and charges. The Cabinet will consider a further detailed report on the budget on 6 February before making recommendations to Council on the budget and Council Tax level.

Councillor Peter Moyle, Leader of the Council, said: “This is a difficult, challenging budget for the Council this year. Our costs are increasing, particularly as a result of initiatives from central government, and the grant settlement at 1.9% over last year is very disappointing. This is putting a squeeze on our residents which means that we will need to look to reduce our spending so we can limit any increase.” Councillor Moyle added, “Importantly, I am determined to continue our work to maintain critical services and address the high priority areas of safety and town centre redevelopment. We shall continue our work in these areas.”

Director of Resources Peter Gardner, commented “Council Tax makes up just 11% of the income to finance our spending, which makes it very sensitive to small changes in our expenditure.”

He added, “The proposed grant settlement still does not take into account the higher cost of providing services in this area of the South East despite representations over a number of years. This means that Rushmoor receives around £1 million less than it should do.”

Ends

Cllr Clifford comment: I think we should spend according to what the Government give us, and cut our cloth accordingly. I am very much against over inflation increases. This Press Release uses the Retail Price Index(RPI) of 4.4% - this is made up as follows

Food 13.6%, Catering 4.9%, Alcohol 8.0%, Tobacco 3.4%, Housing 18.6%, Fuel & Light 4.1%, Household Goods 7.2%, Household Services 5.2%, Clothes 5.6%, Personal Goods 4.0%, Motoring 12.8%, Fares 2.0%, Leisure Goods & Services 10.6%.

But the Treasury preferred to measure underlying inflation (RPIX) as they call it that takes out things like Mortgage Interest, and is the inflation figure they use for all their targets which is only 3.8%. And it is all change again, because trying to harmonise the inflation rates across Europe, we are now going to use a European version of our Consumer Price Index (CPI) called the Harmonisation Index of Consumer Prices (HICP) which is currently 3%.

So I will be arguing against any increase over 3%.

Hey, take some time to chill out - its healthy

My thanks to a resident that sent me this picture. Taking a bit of time to relax is so important, and if we can relax with someone else so much the better. Although, I am not encouraging residents to relax in trees!!

Our Lady of Lourdes Planning Application

This application is for the erection of new church hall with a link to the church following demolition of the existing hall. The full details of this application can be found at http://pa-dc.rushmoor.gov.uk/publicaccess/dc/DcApplication/application_detailview.aspx?caseno=JBE1JDNMS7000 where you can also leave comments of support or objection.

Time for Tory MEP's to leave EPP

French Farmer Joseph Daul new leader of the EPP

Tory MEP’s are members of the European Peoples' Party (EPP) the largest political group in the EU. The EPP has elected this week (Tuesday) French farmer, Joseph Daul, to lead them. It has been kept very quiet here in Britain. Mr Daul was Chairman of France's National Association of Beef Farmers when it called for the continuation of the ban on British beef long after the EU wanted it lifted. Mr Daul wants to see the EU Constitution adopted and is a keen supporter of the Common Agricultural Policy. He supports the wasteful existence of the two homes for the European Parliament, which comes as no surprise as he represents an area close to Strasbourg.

It strikes me that Monsieur Daul opposes everything our MEP’s stand for. This begs the question. Why are Tory MEP’s still members of the EPP?

USA's Toughest Sheriff

I love this guy ..... Sheriff Joe Arpaio

After 42 years of law enforcement experience, Arpaio's strength is in his ability to know what the public wants. "As Sheriff, I serve the public. The public is my boss", are statements often made by Sheriff Arpaio.
And in serving the public, Arpaio has done many unique things as Sheriff.
On August 3, 1993, he started the nation's largest Tent City for convicted inmates. Over 2000 convicted men and women serve their sentences in a canvas incarceration compound. It is a remarkable success story and has garnered the attention of government officials and media worldwide.
The same is true for his chain gangs which work six days a week contributing thousands of dollars of free labor to the community. The male chain gang and the world's first ever female chain gang clean streets, paint over graffiti, and bury the indigent in the county cemetery.
Equally impressive are the Sheriff's get tough policies.

Arpaio doesn't believe in coddling criminals, frequently saying that jails should not be country clubs. He banned smoking, coffee, pornographic magazines, movies and unrestricted television in all jails. He has the cheapest meals in the country too. The average inmate meal costs under 20 cents.
Arpaio also has launched innovative rehabilitation programs like "Hard Knocks High ", the only accredited high school in an American jail. His ALPHA program teaches inmates to turn away from drugs. It is one of his proudest accomplishments. A high percentage of ALPHA graduates leave his jail clean and sober and rarely, if ever, return to incarceration.
As for his deputies, Arpaio has increased salaries, encouraged education by providing incentive pay, improved equipment and the fleet, and has elevated this office to a full-service, state-of-the-art world renowned law enforcement agency.
Also under Arpaio, the posse has grown to 3200 members, the nation's largest volunteer posse. These men and women, always are a great help to deputies, help in search and rescue and other traditional police work as well as in special operations like round-ups of deadbeat parents, fighting prostitution in the valley's so-called red light district, and patrolling malls and shops during holidays. The posse's contribution is invaluable and essentially free to taxpayers.

For more information see: http://www.mcso.org/ and http://www.reelectjoe.com/

It is high time life in UK Jails was a lot less uncomfortable - and more of a place they "pay back" their debt to society rather than getting more from the law keeping, tax paying society.

32 The Crescent - Planning Appeal

NOTIFICATION ABOUT RECEIPT OF PLANNING APPEAL

Planning Inspectorate Reference: APP/P1750/A/06/2032673/NWF

Appeal by: Magenta Homes Ltd

Proposal: Erection of two buildings comprising 12 two bedroom flats with associated parking and landscaping following demolition of existing house

Location: 32 The Crescent Farnborough Hampshire GU14 7AS

An appeal has lodged by Magenta Homes Ltd against the decision by the Council to refuse permission for the above proposal. Details of the appellant’s grounds of appeal can be inspected at the Council Offices during normal office hours. The appeal will be dealt with by an Inspector from the Planning Inspectorate and will involve an exchange of written statements. The Inspector will also visit the site.

You are entitled to make representations about this appeal. We have already sent copies of all comments that were made at the application stage to the Planning Inspectorate and the Inspectorate advise that you need not make any further comments. However, if you wish to modify, elaborate or withdraw any earlier comments, you will need to send 3 copies of your letter direct to the Inspectorate. Unless specifically asked, the Inspectorate will not acknowledge your letter. They will however pass your letter to the Inspector dealing with the appeal. Please ensure that your comments are received by the Planning Inspectorate by 13 January 2007 otherwise they will not be considered. All letters should be addressed to the Planning Inspectorate, 3/15 Eagle Wing, Temple Quay House, 2 The Square, Temple Quay, Bristol, BS1 6PN quoting reference APP/P1750/A/06/2032673/NWF.

The Planning Inspectorate will send a copy of the decision letter to you provided you specifically ask for one.

You can obtain a copy of a booklet ‘Guide to taking part in Planning Appeals’ free of charge from the Planning Services at Rushmoor Borough Council. Further information on planning appeals is available from the Planning Portal at www.planningportal.gov.uk

What I said last Council Meeting (for the record)

Two important issues were discussed last Council Meeting (7th December 2006), and I got up and spoke on both. Just so there is no misunderstanding about what I said, I will for the benefit of fellow councillors and residents confirm it here.

1. Rushmoor Local Development Framework: I am fed up with and appose the large number of flats being built in the Borough and am frustrated that the Planning Committee seems impotent, toothless and gutless in opposing it. I said to Cllr Dibbs (Executive member for the Environement) that if he could convince me that the new framework would better protect us from more flat development, I would vote in favour of it with him. He did not convince me so I voted against it. And I was frankly disappointed that I was the only person to do so.

http://www.rushmoor.gov.uk/media/adobepdf/1/f/Core_Strategy_1.pdf

2. Rushmoor Climate Change Strategy and Action Plan: I am very keen to save and protect our beautiful planet which I believe has been created for us. And it is wonderful that the Council has spent time and money putting this document together telling us all to do more. But it simply smacks of lip service unless our local leaders act rather than just put their names to such documents. I will have more confidence in the Borough's committment to this document, when I see the Cabinet and Directors of the Council getting out of their Chelsea Tractors and using more eco friendly modes of transport. I voted in favour of the plan.

http://www.rushmoor.gov.uk/media/adobepdf/g/2/ClimateChangeStrategy_1.pdf

Mobile Phone Scam

The email below is circulating about mobile phone fraud. I checked it out with our local police officer WPC Bev Woodhead who discovered it is a hoax. See full answer below the quoted email:

EMAIL >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
Below is a warning from a Police Crime Prevention Officer in Lancashire Constabulary that is circulating. I imagine most people would be suspicious anyway if they were asked to start keying things into their phone, but it is nevertheless useful to receive specific warning against a known threat.

I believe the warning is genuine, but obviously cannot vouch for that or accept any responsibility. Best regards and seasonal greetings

Loraine
-------------------------------------

If you receive a phone call on your mobile from any person, saying that, he or she is a company engineer, or telling you that they're checking your mobile line, and you have to press #90 or #09 or any other number. End this call immediately without pressing any numbers. There is a fraud company using a device that once you press #90 or #09 they can access your "SIM" card and make calls at your expense. Forward this message to as many colleagues, relatives and friends as you can, to stop it.

Many thanks for your time regarding this matter, take care and regards.

Phil Corris, Police Constable/Crime Prevention Officer

end of email >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>


OFFICIAL POLICE RESPONSE:

Firstly to put your mind at ease you're right this is a hoax, the originator of the original email (which was over 15 months ago) assured me the information was correct, so I was obliged to forward it to my contacts. But I made further enquiries with mobile phone providers they told me that electronically the process is not possible, which I also circulated at the time, so therefore as I previously mentioned it is a hoax.

Having said that, what the phone providers did say was to be aware of receiving a text on your mobile giving the impression that it has originated from your mobile phone provider asking if you want a phone upgrade, ring tone or other such service or item for sale. People then contact the number within the text message which is possibly a premium rate telephone number which could be up to a maximum of £9. A web site to check if a telephone number is a premium rate number is www.icstis.org.uk

If anyone wants to upgrade their phone they should contact their provider on a known number obtained from the monthly itemised bill, as for ring tones always read the small print. I'm sure you are aware that identity theft is the current growing crime, never divulge any personal information over the phone, email or post to anyone you are not completely certain. Never be fooled by the subtle phone call purporting to be from your credit card company asking for confirmation of your card details, say 'NO' and contact your credit card company immediately or the letter stating you have won the 'Spanish Lottery', shred and recycle it.

More information regarding identity fraud can be gleaned from the following web site - www.stopidfraud.co.uk - I hope that has answered all your queries, if you do require any further help or advice please do not hesitate to contact me.

Many thanks for your patience in this matter, I must apologise for any inconvenience this has caused I hope that clears up the situation, have a great New Year, take care and regards,


Phil Corris Police Constable/Crime Prevention Officer

End of Police update from Officer dealing with this issue.

Christmas @ Farnborough

Hope you all had a great Christmas - we certainly did. Politics, flying and work was banned, and we all enjoyed each others company. Here are just a few snaps. We even had a visit from Santa! Some people will do anything to avoid washing up!!!

Now what pratt would dress like that for dinner ....

However, no need to worry - the stranger was kept well away from everyone else until he was checked out by the two family bouncers, who removed any dangerous objects ... like coins...

Olivia was almost convinced - but saw throught the disguise within minutes of an interogation

and Megan? .... well she just couldn't care, and didn't see what all the fuss was over. She prefered playing with the wrapping paper, which was much more interesting.

Greetings for 2007 after speaking to my solicitor

Please accept with no obligation, implied or implicit, my best wishes for an environmentally conscious, socially responsible, low stress, non-addictive, gender neutral celebration of the winter solstice event, practiced within the most enjoyable traditions of the religious persuasion of your choice, or secular practices of your choice, with respect for the religious/secular persuasions and/or traditions of others, or their choice not to practice religious or secular traditions at all.
Also, please accept a fiscally successful, personally fulfilling, and medically uncomplicated recognition of the onset of the generally accepted calendar year 2007, but not without due respect for the calendars of choice of other cultures whose contributions to society have helped make England great, (not to imply that England is necessarily greater than any other country or is the only " ENGLAND " in the Western Hemisphere), and without regard to the race, creed, color, age, physical ability, religious faith, choice of computer platform, or sexual preference of the wishee.
By accepting this greeting, you are accepting these terms. This greeting is subject to clarification or withdrawal. It is freely transferable with no alteration to the original greeting. It implies no promise by the wisher to actually implement any of the wishes for her/himself or others, and is void where prohibited by law, and is revocable at the sole discretion of the wisher. This wish is warranted to perform as expected within the usual application of good tidings for a period of one year, or until the issuance of a subsequent holiday greeting, whichever comes first, and warranty is limited to replacement of this wish or issuance of a new wish at the sole discretion of the wisher.