Editorial: Casual Fridays 1/25

Sunday best

In Bristol, England, a group called the Christian Resources Exhibition hosted a fashion show event designed to brighten up the Church of England’s image and make it appeal to a growing group of female clergy. According to an article in The Telegraph, 2,000 members of the clergy attended to see volunteers strut their stuff in “cutting edge” designs, including colorful, fitted robes and a “bling chasuble.” Costume-party fans, keep on the alert, for a black robe might soon be out of fashion at this year’s tarts and vicars parties.

Tall tail

A Japanese inventor, Shota Ishiwatari, has created a mood-sensing device called “Tailly.” Yes, it’s as horrifying as it sounds: a robotic tail that responds to the wearer’s heart rate. The robotic tail wags when the user’s heart rate is fast. Ishiwatari is attempting to gather $100,000 to fund the creation of more electronic tails, and he thinks they will help couples to express their feelings without words. Pittsburgh Anthrocon fans, take note: If your mascot costume’s static cartoon face can’t express your emotions enough, maybe a robot tail can.

Whatever floats your goat

In Australia, a goat named Gary incurred legal trouble after he ate some flowers outside of a museum. His owner, a comedian named Jimbo Bazoobi (or Jim Dezarnaul) was fined 440 Australian dollars (or $465). However, Gary the goat appeared in court with his own lawyer, and the judge ruled that neither the owner nor the goat had to pay the fine. It seems like that goat’s a real bah-ass.

What a purr-oblem

In New Zealand, a group of activists led by a man named Gareth Morgan are trying to rid the country of pet cats because they believe the domesticated animals threaten native birds such as kiwis. He says on his website that he does not suggest going as far as euthanizing cats, but suggests that New Zealanders neuter their pet cats and not purchase any more. Scientist David Winter said that cats are a problem in New Zealand, having caused several species of birds to become extinct. He also said on his blog that the no-cats campaign appeared to “start conversations” — which is probably helpful for New Zealand’s many cat ladies.