Let's Do The News! (September 30, 2013)

James: And now the news and hey, Breaking Bad is finally over...for real!

(awww)

Richard: Wow, for five seasons, Breaking Bad has been a fan favorite about a science teacher and his former pupil selling drugs and struggling to keep themselves away from the law. It's over for real...how sad. At least there goes the line..."REMEMBER MY NAME..."

Jeremy: Yeah. "Remember My Name", that's exactly what main character Walt White said. So anyway, the end of Breaking Bad really is one of the most memorable ones in the history of TV shows. Science abuse...how cool was that? Using science to commit crimes? Now that's what "science abuse" is all about in the story of Breaking Bad.

James: Yes, indeed, and for those who've watched the finale, thank you. That's it. Thank you for BREAKING BAD.

(audience laughing, then cheers and applause)

James: And in cased you missed it, Disney Channel aired a Jake and the Neverland Pirates TV special titled Neverland Rescue and hey, since you had a friend who had a kid...

Jeremy: Sorry...didn't noticed it. She and her baby went to her friend's house and they missed it...

(audience laughing)

Richard: Hmmm? I mean where? In Renton?

(audience laughing)

Jeremy: Uh-huh. Seems they really forgot about setting their DVR for this TV special. My friend's baby boy's really is disappointed for now because he didn't see the TV special earlier. Too bad...

(audience laughing)

Jeremy: Anyway, while on the topic of the impending Government Shutdown, there are some interesting facts on what will USA happen in the middle of a government shutdown. Says here that this isn't the first one because since 1976, Federal government has shut down a total of 17 times. 17 times since 1976! Think about the disagreements that caused but don't fret because sometimes shutdowns lasted from a week or less until an agreement is made.

James: What about people working for the government, especially for someone who is a correction technician somewhere in Seattle?

Jeremy: Says here...business as usual in a middle of a government shutdown. Just in case, a "government shutdown" is nothing more of a sem break in a bad manner kind of way. Despite this, benefits continue to go out as planned. Don't worry for those who rely on pensions and Social Security checks. What interests us is that 60% of non-military Federal employees will continue to work as usual.

(ooohh)

Richard: So. Do you think there's going to be...as noted...the 18th government shutdown if Congress don't go as planned?

Jeremy: Most likely because those Republicans are always to blamed because if the question goes...Who's to blame in the middle of a government shutdown? The answer will always be Republicans and in case of a 2016 elections, I don't want a Republican to be president. The last Republican president Americans noted is George W. Bush, who's busy in his retirement home in Texas. Ugh...I think I might be getting sleepless nights for now.

(audience laughing)

Jeremy: Now what's also made me sleepless is that there's an island emerged somewhere in Pakistan, a day after a deadly earthquake. Here it is...

A mysterious island in Pakistan

Richard: Whoa...One of the world's mysterious things. A deadly Pakistani quake emerged an island that was once non-existent. Quite a mythology we're looking, eh?

Jeremy: Yeah but this isn't mythology, this is real life with a twist. Speaking of which, what's worth noting about this mystery island?

Richard: I told you, it's still a mystery, right?

Jeremy: Oh... And oh, guess what? I went on the internet and I found this...

(audience laughing hysterically)

Jeremy: Oh and I also found this, okay? It's the tweet from actress Megan Young, who became the first ever Filipina to win the Miss World 2013 pageant. Says here...

Jeremy: Uh oh....

(audience laughing)

James: What is it?

Jeremy: Oh wait, it's the other Megan Young. This twitter user meganyoung12 doesn't belong to the real Miss World 2013 winner. Truth is though, the real Megan Young twitter account were aftering is meganbata. Yep. Beware of imitations, that's the top tip.

(audience laughing)

Richard: So many imitations going on in social media, right? Guess what? That's the end of the news!

Jeremy: Hey that's my line!

Richard: Yep because it's now time for the final HOW CUTE IS YOUR CHARACTER! I have lined up one final character on the roster and what do you think? Do you think this "cute character" will beat Bijou and declare winner? Find out later in this blog!

Skoda Rapid Spaceback and VW Golf VII Variant

As a rule, I only cover cars that were grown from the country where its made, well almost. Japanese cars speak Japanese, Korean cars speak Korean, American cars speak American, German cars speak German, you get the idea. As for the Skoda Rapid, released last year, I'm only focused on the original Czech version rather than the Indian remake because they're very different from how it's made. Mlada Boleslav-made Rapid is the original Rapid I'm tackling because, well you know the rule, we don't cover cars not sold from its home markets.

2014 Skoda Rapid Spaceback

This is the Rapid Spaceback model and this hatchback version is what you can expect only on the original Czech version. Apart from its hatchback looks, Skoda claims that the all new Spaceback is the “first Skoda hatchback in the high-volume compact segment,” which looks “dynamic and fresh for young customer groups.” Yeah. For young customer groups but how dynamic and fresh is the new Spaceback?

First and foremost, the new Spaceback costs 269 900 Kč, which is the same as the saloon model I've examined last year alongside its Spanish SEAT Toledo twin, and amazingly, even in an altered bodywork to accommodate more space in the back, you can still expect the same engine choices like the 1.2 MPi, 1.2 TSi, 1.4 TSi, and the 1.6 TDi engine. Depending on the engine types, you can go for either a 5-speed manual, a 6-speed manual, and a 7-speed DSG.

The most powerful in the lineup was the one with the 1.4 TSi engine which has a 0-100kph time of 9.4 seconds and a top speed of about 203kph. Hmmm...Not quite exciting for a car like that though but the 1.2 TSi engine model is a moderate one that can be taken very seriously. Regardless of the specs, what's like to drive as a driver's car?

2014 Skoda Rapid Spaceback interior

By the moment you first drive the Spaceback, your first impressions isn't really a good one because judging by all means Czech, it feels as cruddy as the Korean cars and as confused as the low-cost machines, especially the one you can keep yelling "Good News" to your peers. It's like some of the things Jon Tickle's body can't do but for this Spaceback, there is one thing you can't do; to excite. It maybe a yuppie's car but trying to have fun in one of these is as...pre-school-ish as letting your baby do all of the things you can't. It feels like just another senior citizens' car or rather a future banger but despite that, it's still work as a family car.

With rear seats in place, the Spaceback offers 415L of space, more than enough to put your everyday groceries on the back but if you're in a bit of a leisure man, you can fold the rear seats down and attain 1380 litres of space, more than the present-day VW Golf has but less than its big brother, the Octavia. The interior maybe suffered from, what should I call it, cost-cutting-itis, but in terms of today's economy, it's a smart buy for those who want a new car that suits their budget. Hmmm... Cost-cutting-itis? I should better add that to the Big Book of Boo Boos. Don't judge me from this, this isn't some sort of kids show my baby's frequently watching, I'm in a middle of...this!

Anyway, the Rapid Spaceback maybe more of an Audi A3 on a budget but it's still doesn't worth the mettle to be a family car. Regardless from this, this is one proof that I only choose the original Czech Rapid rather than the Indian-dubbed remake. Same thing why I like the original UK version of Top Gear rather than the US version.

However, if I want a more practical family mover, I have to move to Germany and check this out...

2014 Volkswagen Golf Variant

It's the brand new Golf VII Variant, it's basically an all-new model based on an all-new Golf rather than a carryover from the previous model and oh, if you're from North America, nein. This new Golf Variant won't be called J_tt_ Sp_rt_w_g_n (some vowels blocked to avoid search query hijinks, again. I said this so I don't want to see some mess when I check my site's analytics, you get me?). Anyway, it maybe larger than the original Golf hatchback but thanks to its enhanced rear legroom, it's much better than the Rapid Spaceback as well.

The Golf has been proven to be a people power for the masses and this is the first to incorporate Volkswagen Group's new MQB platform which you can expect future models from the VW Group to wear this new outfit. The benefits include reduced weight (up to 105 kg lighter), optimised package (100 litres more cargo space), sharper body proportions, new safety and convenience systems, new petrol and diesel engines (up to 15 per cent more fuel efficient) and new running gear technologies.

With Volkswagen finally returned on Philippine soil, it seems the latest Golf will not come around until next year because so far, the only available VWs Filipinos can buy are The Beetle, the Touareg, the Tiguan crossover, the Jetta sedan, and the Touran minivan, which is essentially based on the Golf. One thing that really shocked me is that the petrol VW engines are not compatible with Philippine fuels because of, and we're not joking because Automobile Central Enterprises confirmed, manganese. Eewww...

2014 Volkswagen Golf Variant interior

Anyway, back on the new Golf Variant because for the first time, it comes with the XDS+ electronic differential lock which corrects the car every time when it faces the corners. You can opt in for the DCC dynamic chassis control in which at the touch of a button, you can make it more comfortable on the normal roads or sportier on the open roads but as for me, no matter which mode, it feels almost the same as none. You want to have a more comfortable ride or a sportier ride but by default, it feels a bit more of a default. Oh and if you're going old-school, there's also the sport suspension which drops the car by just 15mm. Lower height makes it a well-cornering act but be warned, it does make you feel uncomfortable on your back because when you hit the bumps, expect your ribs to be transplanted on your head.

There are so many engine types offered on the Variant like the 1.2 TSi, a 1.4 TSi, a 1.6 TDi, and a 2.0 TDi engine but for those who want a well-balanced car should go for the one with the 1.4 TSi with 122PS of power. 0-100 takes about 9.7 seconds and flatout, it will do about 204kph, faster than the Rapid Spaceback's but there's a twist and that's the stupid 7-speed double clutch gearbox which is as swift as a metro aide clearing the roads from the falling leaves. Do I have to be bothered by this? Well, there are so many choices available for the new Golf Variant but it might be best not to go to a more complicated ones.

Unlike any other big wagons available, the new Golf Variant is worth a value for the masses and with 18,950 Euros of starting price, that makes it a great value so it's your choice; if you want a family car would you consider a Czech hatchback with a different back or a true German family car that is worth noting than nothing? Good luck, pals.

Photo: Volkswagen Group

Wow Mali Pa Rin! - 9/29/13

On the September 29, 2013 episode of Wow Mali Pa Rin...

- Beware of...the man in a drum!

- In the OH CAM ON segment, Delivery boy gets shocked when this old man's jowa had a secret affair...

- Don't answer someone asking for directions! Chances are you'll be sandwiched by a fat person behind you!

- Joey de Leon asks: Ang dugo raw ng ahas ay nagpapalakas. Eh bakit yung mga ahas mismo hindi makatayo at gumagapang pa rin?!

- In MAGIC GIMIK, this prank is as easy as chicken! LIVE CHICKEN!!!

- In the I-WOW MALI MO AKO segment, watch out! Some spirit's swapping places unnoticed! Get your Holy Water on!

- Joey asks: FYI, sa Ingles, For Your Info. Sa Filipino, Fara You Intindi!

- IPIS be with you!

- In the year 2025...oh well. Let's take a look in the future in the world of showbiz.

- WOW BLOOPERS takes you to the outtakes of Pinoy Explorer!

- Joey asks: They say that travel is all about eating and shopping. That's true. Ang salitang LAKBAY ay galing sa LAKLAK at BUY!

- The best of home video gags on WOW WAGI include the Giant Uod prank and a girl reacts on the hidden symbols prank.

- How low can you go while blindfolded in a game of Limbo?

- In CALL NI IDOL segment, Joey de Leon makes a prank call on someone from Pasig City. BOW WOW WOW WOW!!!

- Celebs and fans get bugged out by some unsuspecting toy spider!

Mitoy Yonting is Voice PH winner

Mitoy wins Voice PH

The first-ever winner of The Voice of the Philippines is named on the grand finale held at Resorts World Manila and Mitoy Yonting, the 42 year old vocalist, is hailed the victor on this reality singing competition. A member of Team Lea, Mitoy garnered 57.65% of votes to beat Team Sarah's Klarisse de Guzman based on the number of votes including iTunes and truetone downloads. Team Bamboo's Myk Perez and Team Apl's Janice Javier were among the Top 4 finalists.

Story: http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/entertainment/09/29/13/mitoy-wins-voice-ph

So, congratulations Mitoy, you really are the worthy one to be THE VOICE OF THE PHILIPPINES!

Let's Do The News! (September 29, 2013)

The wild stuff on this segment today or tonight or this morning...

- Before you hitch a taxi ride, read this story published by Top Gear Philippines: http://t.co/pa1Fx7oo5G

- Even when this swimming anime recently concluded with the "See you next summer" finishing line at the end credits, there's still more to this..."Free!" fandom because recently, the latest issue of Nyan-Type magazine featured the manager of the Iwatobi Swim Club, Kou. Not only that, the latest Prince Animage and spoon. 2Di issues featured the rest of the boys from this...swimming anime.

Story here: http://www.crunchyroll.com/anime-news/2013/09/28/frees-kou-finally-gets-swimsuit-pin-up-poster

- There is a VERY VERY HIGH risk of shutting down the US Government if Republicans are going to amend the budget bill.

Story here: http://t.co/RXt8Ez1iH8

- Message from US President Obama: "They refuse to pass a budget unless I let them sabotage Obamacare." Read the message here and take action: http://t.co/zp7DyIwFkU

- The first ever Filipina to garner this year's Miss World crown. Actress Megan Young wins the Miss World 2013 pageant!

Story here: http://goo.gl/v0LmQ1

- Good Smile Company announced the new line of rubber straps, Picktam!, and the inauguration of the newest GSC line starts with the hit 2013 anime series, ATTACK ON TITAN. Eren, Mikasa, Armin, Sasha, Jean, Christa, and Levi are offered as well as a secret item we really don't know yet. Part 1 of the Picktam! Attack on Titan range coming this December 2013, each costs 650 yen.

Details: http://www.goodsmile.info/product/en/4071/Picktam+Attack+on+Titan+-+Part+1.html

Picktam! Attack on Titan Part 1

- Frederator Studios' CARTOON HANGOVER posted a video of the Warrior's Pledge from the hit web cartoon, BRAVEST WARRIORS. Here's the clip and oh...POWER RESPECT!

Oh, they also posted a video regarding the animatics from all five BW animatics, from Moo-Phobia to TerraBeth Bytes.



TTFN!

SYRIA UPRISING: Syria accepts UN resolution

Syrian foreign minister Walid al-Moallem expressed his government's intention to abide by the UNSC's resolution demanding the elimination of the country's chemical weapons. He spoke to NHK in New York where he is visiting to address the General Assembly.

Story: NHK WORLD

What's in our Car Town garage today? (September 29, 2013)

What's in our Car Town garage today?

2006 Dodge Viper SRT10

Known to be one of America's finest sportscars, the Dodge Viper is truly a hardcore driver's car and since it doesn't rely on electronics so much, this supercar loves to do some bad tricks the old-school way. For this model, it still retains the same bad boy image even though there is a slight fact that it follows the same design as the GTS-R Concept. Using one of the biggest engines offered in the market today, the Viper SRT-10 delivers a mindblowing 510bhp of power, 725Nm of torque, 0-60 time of under four seconds, and an alleged top speed of 193mph. This slithering behemoth is truly an enthusiast's car of its own right.

2006 Dodge Viper SRT10

1967 Ford Anglia

Mind your broomsticks, Harry Potter fans, because this is the kind of car you are truly familiar with. It's that flying car as seen in Chamber of Secrets. The Weasley boys took their dad's Ford Anglia to fetch Harry Potter when he realized he missed the Hogwarts Station and then later crashed in an effort to get through Hogwarts. Yes, in the world of Harry Potter, this Anglia can fly literally but in reality, this 1967 Anglia isn't. Even though this Anglia doesn't act the same as the one from Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, it's still one of the most admired classics of all time. Little known fact that with the Performance Kit, it garnered six International Class G World Records averaging a top speed of 83.47mph. It's also durable as well because its durability doesn't need repairs after 20,000 km, other than tire changes.

1967 Ford Anglia

1972 Lancia Fulvia Rally

In the past, Lancia is well known to be one of the most successful WRC manufacturers in history, scoring 10 wins in its career. Its first WRC win for the Italian carmaker can be traced to this car, the Fulvia. Piloted by Sandro Munari, this Fulvia became the first ever Lancia to snag a WRC win in 1972. In the "Collection of Lancia" episode of Top Gear, Jeremy Clarkson describes the Fulvia is like "driving a rorty sorbet" even though it costs more than a Jaguar E-Type.

1972 Lancia Fulvia Rally