Taking a look at recent, positive, uplifting, news stories and yarns, from New Zealand and all around the world to bring a smile and a bit of cheer.
Historic vehicle up for auction
If you have a penchant for classic cars, history, and royalty (as well as some cash in the bank) then this may well be for you. This weekend, a 1963 Rolls-Royce Phantom V, used by the Queen and Prince Philip on two state visits to New Zealand, is up for auction.
“Auction house Webb’s noted that the Rolls-Royce gained particular significance via its use during ‘royal walkabout’ duties, where onlookers following the royal tour would watch the Queen and Prince Philip emerge from the car before engaging with local fans.
“As part of its royal service (it was ordered specifically for its duties with the Queen), this Rolls was optioned with numerous additional custom features. Sporting an H.J. Mulliner Park Ward coachbuilt body, it inherited triple-carpeted floors, rear-hinged coach doors, and silver goblets and decanters. Said goblets and decanters are still present. The Rolls-Royce isn’t quite pristine, with Webb’s describing it as being in “highly original condition”. It has obviously seen plenty of weddings in its day, with 83,167 miles (134,000km) shown on its odometer. Webb’s are expecting the big British classic to sell for $175,000–$200,000.” (Source: “Rolls-Royce used by Queen Elizabeth II in NZ set for auction,” by Matthew Hansen, 7th August, www.stuff.co.nz).
5 stars – it’s worth checking out the link above for the photos alone. I’m sure this roller will pass its reserve!
We are way ahead of the curve at the Olympics
Last weekend I was in Sydney, visiting my brother, and spent a bit of time watching the Olympics coverage. Australia has done very well this year and rightly so, pundits were lauding their successes. Then I thought about the coverage here and how different it is. As I write, New Zealand is 13th on the medal table. That’s 13th out of 184 countries competing. In what universe that is not an amazing result is quite beyond me. That’s also with four days to go.
Really, sometimes we need to look at what we achieve and celebrate it. We are a small country with a small population that more than certainly punches above its weight. What we accomplish is fantastic!
5 stars – so many good, positive stories alone in the past week. I’m looking forward to the next four days.
US Olympians aided by canine pal
They say that behind every success is a team of fantastic supporters and in this case it’s not just the human variety. This Olympiad in Paris the US gymnastics team have knocked it out the park. Not only is the current team the oldest US team in 72 years, they are also one of the most successful. Some of that credit must go to their support dog, a beautiful golden retriever named Beacon.
“Beacon, an emotional support dog based in sunny Pasadena, California, was on hand earlier this summer to help calm the nerves of the athletes and coaches at the US Olympic trials in Minneapolis. Along with a selection of local canines, he was called upon to help soothe the passel of jittery aspirants before it was their turn to show their stuff. He stuck around to comfort the athletes who were not selected to compete in Paris.
“Beacon is just one of part of USA Gymnastics’ long-overdue mental health program. In addition to therapy pets, the initiative also includes mindfulness sessions and a team of therapists who are at the ready to work with athletes.” (Source: “The unsung hero of the Olympic-champion US women’s gymnastics team is a very good boy,” by Lauren Mechling, 6th August, www.guardian.com).
