Codswallop

The rivers of money flowing into the government’s coffers present both problems and opportunities. Our growing economy and population is producing demands for increased spending on infrastructure, health and education. Some people believe tackling the growing inequality in Australia should be the top priority with increased focus on services for those left behind by the economic boom. A recent survey indicates most Australians believe the surplus is the result of being overtaxed. So, should the money be given back as tax cuts or will that drive up inflation and interest rates? Is the solution for the government to save and invest the money as an insurance against an uncertain future?

The above paragraph is a summary of the latest episode Different Of Opinion A show aired on ABC and hosted by Jeff McMullen which aims to assemble a panel of free thinkers to discuss the biggest challenges facing Australia's future.

This week they discussed how the massive $20billion surplus should be spent. The panel featured Dr John Hewson. Now I wouldn't exactly call myself a Liberal fan, especially under Howard. But I have to say Dr John Hewson, the former Liberal leader really impressed me. He put up the argument that political decisions should be conducted in the framework of global climate change. It's a shame no current politicians think this way.

I highly recommend watching this episode, which can be downloaded from the abc website. It made for thought provoking television.

I see that Nick Flanagan has made the cut in his first tournament on the big stage, the Turning Stone Resort Championship. I'm sure Nick would be happy very with that start. If you're not aware, Nick gained his PGA Tour card by winning three tournaments on the Nationwide Tour this year.

Update: Nick Flanagan has finished in a tie for 18th in his début start as PGA tour player. Top twenty, what a terrific way to start!

Ok, I admit it, I'm a dag, I really enjoyed watching Brothers and Sisters. Most of all I enjoyed watching Sally Field's performance. She was outstanding, such a mother!

It's late, the Emmys are on, normally I would run a mile. However I've stayed up. I'm curious to see if Sally Field's fabulous performance as Nora Walker will be recognised and earn her a nomination and an Emmy.

It has! Sally Field has got the gong. I'm happy now .. going to bed.

For anyone interested I've thrown up a page up for Limelight, the XULRunner based slideshow viewer I developed as a demo and to present the XUL is Cool slides.

Those who came along to the Melbourne PHP User Group would have seen I was hacking away at the presentation up to the last minute. Developing a PowerPoint killer app to present the slides seemed like a good idea at the time As soon as I can, I will attempt to expand the slides so they are easier to follow as tutorial, as well as fixing some of the more glaring bugs with Limelight.

Aussie Aaron Baddeley is following up on his good performance last week at the Deutsche Bank Championship by posting a consecutive 65 to lead into the final round of the BMW Championship, the third tournament in the FedExCup playoffs for $10 million. Badds is going to have his work cut out for him though, as he shares the lead with Steve Sticker, who has been on fire of late and is second in the FedExCup standings, and is only one ahead of you know who.

Badds isn't the only Aussie doing well at the BMW Championship. Adam Scott and Nathan Green at tied for 7th on 8 under and Stuart Appleby is 13th a couple of shots further back.