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But, while I was trawling the web for possible NZ-related stories, I came across this page over at GeekZone.

Gosh, GeekZone rated # 8 in the top 10 IT/Media sites eh? Not bad. Hmmm, I wonder who else is on that list? Could Aardvark be included perhaps?

So I loaded up the PDF containing the relevant information which, as it turns out, appears to be sourced from HitWise.

Golly gosh, look who's number two :-)

I hope Aardvark's sponsor thinks their money is well spent, given that good old Aardvark seems to be ahead of everyone except PC World.

In the wake of this ranking, I'd just like to thank the readers, the academy, the lady who makes the tea...

There is one topic that, although it's only received a passing mention in the mainstream media, appears to be causing some concern for a few movers and shakers out there.

It seems that what was seen as one of the last bastions of free enterprise in the telco world may soon be crushed by Telecom.

I'm aware that there are a number of formal and informal WiFi networks being created around the country and some of those involved are concerned that Telecom's might and ability to leverage its dominance in the overall marketplace might squeeze them right out of the scene.

Now have your say Got something to say about today's column, or want to see what others think?  Visit The Forums While you're here, why not visit the Aardvark Hall of Shame and perhaps make your own nomination.

This would indeed be a great shame, especially where those community-based networks are concerned.

However, I suspect that (at least initially), Telecom will cherry-pick the prime locations where maximum profits are to be had. This should mean that some of the smaller operators will still have room to move.

What surprises me is that these little community initiatives (and I know there are a number of them out there) have received so little coverage.

It's a shame that we can't get some kind of movement going to provide more of these community networks, thus freeing people from the tyranny of a DSL monopoly.

I'd like to hear from anyone and everyone who is attempting or who has succeeded in establishing a community WiFi network. Let's see if we can't get the ball rolling here.

Lighten Up
Yes, in order to dodge the mountain of complaints I get when I don't provide readers with their weekly dose of laughter and amazement, here's your Lighten Up material.

Here's a great little Flash game that is very addictive and produces no hangover! I wonder if it would be easier to play this game while drunk?

If you're the kind of person who marvels at how the stars in the night sky can be joined to create constellations that (supposedly) look like animals or people, then this is the site for you. The only difference is that it uses railway maps instead of stars.

And can some one tell my why all the Smiths left Auckland for the day yesterday -- or at least they seem to have temporarily relinquished their phone connections.

Now come on you guys (and guyesses), send me more material!

If you feel that this is a good thing and/or you hold a "geniune affection" for yours truly -- then you are welcome to gift me some money using the buttons provided. In gifting this money you accept that no goods, service or other consideration is offered, provided, accepted or anticipated in return. Just click on the button to gift whatever you can afford. NOTE: PayPal bills in US dollars so don't accidentally gift more than what you were intending :-)

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