September 2010 Archives

Once again the fan's generosity is showcased today with the sale of Lucy's costumes for Starship during their Starship Spring Clean for $17,675!! Wow!

Xena outfit worn by Lucy Lawless in 'Legacy'

Sold For: $2,600

Click here for more

Xena outfit worn by Lucy Lawless in 'Here she comes... Miss Amphipolis'

Sold for: $2,000 | Click here for more

Xena outfit worn by Renee OConnor
in 'If The Shoes Fits'

Sold For: $3,150 | Click here for more

Xena outfit worn by Lucy Lawless in 'Who's Gurkhan'

Sold For: $3,100 | Click here for more

Xena kit: worn by Lucy Lawless
in Dangerous Prey

Sold for: $5,110 | Click here for more

Lucy Green Silk Dress

Sold for: $1,060 | Click here for more

Xena's FIN Hat

Sold For: $655 | Click here for more

Apologies to Bob Dylan for bastardising his song title but I just noticed this and figured I would write about it.

Did anyone notice the colour of Gaia's hair is the same colour as Lucretia's from Season 1? Lucretia has Lucy's natural brown colour.

Interesting. I wonder how much influence Gaia is going to have over Lucretia since it looks like the older Lucretia of Season 1 is mimicking her friend Gaia.

We do know that Lucretia tries to copy women she admires or wants to connect to (going blond for Ilithyia). Fascinating.

The following is from Sharon about The Lucy Lawless Feel The Love Week pledge list:

Thanks to all who have been sending in their pledges and to those who have been emailing me asking for a reminder of the deadline -- it's this Thursday, Sept. 30!

Feel the Love 2010!

Gads, is September flying by! It's time for the fifth annual "Lucy Lawless Feel the Love Day" charity drive. September 20th kicks off a
week of charitable acts and contributions by Lucy fans all over the
world. Taking our love for all things Lucy and sharing it with those
around us who are in need.

You can choose what you'd like to do, whether it is donating money or
supplies to a charity, volunteering your time or services to a
charitable organization, reading to a child, or helping out a neighbor,
co-worker, or friend. Any act of charity or kindness counts!

Anyone, anywhere can participate, regardless of how old (or young) you are, or where you live. All you have to do is decide what charitable or kind act you would like to do during "Feel the Love" week and e-mail it with your name and location as you would like it to appear on the pledge list. On Sept. 30, Lucy will be presented with the pledge list of all the charitable acts being done in her honor. To make sure your pledge gets recorded correctly please use the following format in your e-mail:

"In honor of Lucy Lawless Feel the Love Day, I will (insert your
intended contribution), then put your name and location (city, state,
country) as you want it to appear on the pledge list."

The subject of the email should be Feel the Love Day.

Here is the link to Starship Children's Hospital that allows you to make
your donation in honor of Lucy for "Feel the Love Day" if that is what
you choose to do.

Please email your pledges to lucylawlessfanclub@dslextreme.com

The deadline for submitting pledges is September 30.

Lucy's so proud that her fans came up with this idea. It's something she's talked about in many interviews. I know she enjoys reading the pledge list. Can't wait to pass it along to her again this year.

TVShowsonDVD has more info on the release of Battlestar Galactica Season 4 Blu Ray edition.

Lucy appeared in the following episodes:

* The Hub - Episode 9
* Revelations - Episode 10
* Sometimes a Great Notion - Episode 11: (Final Lucy episode as D'anna Biers)

You can found out more about Lucy as D'anna Biers on Battlestar Galactica by visiting the AUSXIP Lucy Lawless Battlestar Galactica subsite

Find out more about the Blu-Ray release and the extras here

If you haven't already made a bid or are waiting to the last moment, here's a reminder that Starship's Spring Clean ends TOMORROW (30 September 2010 in New Zealand).

Lucy's Dangerous Prey costume is now $5,110!!! Yowza!

LUCY'S SPRING CLEANING FOR STARSHIP!

And she wants you to get stuck in too We know you love Lucy and we love her too - and now Lucy's throwing her support behind our latest fundraising appeal, Starship Spring Clean. Our amazing Starship ambassador has cleaned out her wardrobe and given us an exclusive collection of five outfits she wore in the show that made her an international superstar - Xena Warrior Princess. Check out the end of this email for a description of Lucy's costumes up for auction. Now is your chance to bid on these authentic items - and support one of Lucy's favourite causes in the process - Starship Children's Hospital in Auckland, New Zealand.

Starship is New Zealand's national children's hospital and treats close to 150,000 children each year from around New Zealand at the Pacific. Currently Starship is raising money to rebuild its level 6 Neuroservices and Medical Specialties wards, which treat some of the rarest and most critically ill children from around the country. "Get stuck in for Starship," says Lucy. "Visit www.trademe.co.nz/starship"

For more about Lucy's costumes and how to bid go here

Tonight on Spartacus Blood and Sand on Aussie TV - it's Episode 8 Mark of Brotherhood

Mark of Brotherhood
Batiatus purchases a fresh batch of slaves at an auction to be trained as gladiators and ponders the idea of selling Crixus. Ilithyia coaxes a new recruit to try to kill Spartacus.

Have a look at this video promo and notice Lucy around 0:51 seconds into the video. The focus is on Ilithyia but notice Lucretia in the corner. Fascinating :) She convinces Ilithyia to choose a gladiator of her own and watch Lucretia's face and in particular her eyes. I missed it the first time I saw this promo.

Credits | Official Page | Promo Pics | Episode Promo #1 #2 #3

Wow. This is one hell of a poster! Not sure if this is the official poster (it looks like it). Starz will also be releasing official photos soon so those will be going up shortly.

Pictured is Batiatus, Lucretia, Gaia (Lucretia's long time friend) and the Champion of Batiatus' Ludus Gannicus

A true physical specimen, fearless in the arena and possessed of a thirst for the fleeting pleasures of life, Gannicus is the gladiator a girl’s mother doesn’t want her to bring home. Newly promoted to the top position at Batiatus’s ludus, Gannicus is best friend to Oenomaus and his wife Melitta, forming an unlikely triangle of loyal friendship

Interesting? :)

Check out the larger version of the poster

Australia's TV Week Magazine has a preview of one of my favourite episodes "Whore". Tomorrow Australia gets the chance to view this episode. I'm not sure what the episode will look like with all the editing but it will be interesting.

Katrina makes her debut in this episode as well and we get to see Lucretia becoming totally loopy over the possibility of losing Crixus..that wall will never be the same again and neither will Licinia. <g>

Just a mention about something in the article. The reviewer says that Katrina bears an uncanny resemblence to Erin. Um. No they don't other than the dark hair. Very different to me.

Sometimes I wonder if the Aussie reviewers have actually watched the show; before the show started one reviewer described the show as a teenage Spartacus: the early years!! Nothing teenage about Andy Whitfield!

The Sunday News (NZ) 26 September 2010 has a brief mention of Lucy in the hit kiwi show- The Flight of the Conchords

Season 2: Episode 8: New Zealand Town

Lucy's Role: New Zealand Travel Agent
Airdate 30 September 2010

The grand opening of a New Zealand district in New York finds Bret and Jemaine distracted by their physical appearances. Lucy is an assistant to the Prime Minister of New Zealand.

Save 20% off your purchase from the Spartacus: Blood and Sand shop (www.goldlabel.com/spartacus), excluding shipping charges, gift wrap charges and applicable sales tax.

Coupon code SPART1DDL must be entered at check out. Promotion starts on September 21, 2010 at 12:00 a.m. (PST) and ends on October 4, 2010 at 11:59 p.m. (PST).

All orders must be from the URLs www.goldlabel.com/spartacus. Excludes product orders originating from the CafePress marketplace, Gift Certificates, Flip Minos, SIGG bottles, CafePress Groups purchases and bulk orders. Offer cannot be combined with any other coupons or promotions and may change, be modified or cancelled at anytime without notice.

Travel And Leisure magazine asks a question each month and they pick a few answers from twitter and facebook and publish in the magazine.
This months question, If you could travel with anyone in the world living or dead, who would it be and where would you go?

One of the answers was to New Zealand with Lucy Lawless! Some of the other notables were Paris with Hemingway, Orlando with Walt Disney, Seychelles with William Shakespeare. Lucy was with some impressive company.

News submitted by Julie Eaton

Lucy has posted a message on her Official site and it's a moving tribute to cast mate and friend Andy Whitfield as he battles Non Hodgkins Lymphoma a second time.

Read Lucy's Message

This is from Starship's Lucy Keeps Up The Spring Cleaning - Message from Starship which I just posted

Lucy also appeared this past week in a half-hour documentary about the work of Starship. In this programme you can see Lucy at home sorting out the costumes for the auction, towards the end of the programme. See the clip here (available to only NZ viewers):

for Non kiwis, the video is also available on YouTube in four parts (thanks to Barbara Davies for video links)

I've now posted the four clips to the AUSXIP Lucy Lawless Video Channel - Social Awareness Starship Foundation section

Lucy appears in video clip #3 and a few seconds of Part 4 but the whole doco is pretty good at how Starship raises money for the hospital.

Click here to watch all four parts

Spartacus Blood and Sand Season 1 is being released today on DVD, Blu-Ray and Itunes.
In addition to all 13 episodes you get a whole lot of extras.

As we all know Lucy is the domina of the Ludus, Lucretia!

DVDDizzy reviews the Season 1 release and had this to say:

"Shadow Games" has Lucy Lawless and director Michael Hurst discussing and giggling about the small thing...

Whitfield and Lawless are joined by co-star Viva Bianca to discuss Disc 3's "Whore" and "Party Favors" and the 3-speaker dynamic lends nicely to a lively if lightweight discussion of what's onscreen, from story and characters to nude scenes. (excerpt from DVDDizzy review)

Buy Spartacus Blood and Sand Season 1 from Amazon.com and Itunes

Lucy on NZ TV Good Morning on 20 September 2010 at 10:45 am chatting about the Starship Spring Clean which is auctioning off her Xena costumes.

The video of just Lucy's interview which runs for nearly 9 minutes is now online.

Click here to watch video

News submitted by Barbara Davies

It's that time of year again for Lucy Lawless fans to show their love and to spread the joy! AUSXIP has been supporting this idea since 2006 when it started by fans from the Official Lucy Lawless Fan Club. Click here to view the Lucy Lawless Feel The Love subsite

September 21st 2010 is Lucy Lawless 'Feel the Love Day' and kicks off a week of charitable acts and donations by fans in honour and support of Lucy.

The following is from Starship:

On the 27th of September, Lucy will be presented with a single red rose and the list of all those who have donated to Starship in her honour. Visit www.starship.org.nz/donation to donate in Lucy's honour.

Many thanks for your love and support of Lucy and Starship.

You can also submit your name and charitable act to the Official Lucy Lawless Fan Club

"You can choose what you'd like to do, whether it is donating money or supplies to a charity, volunteering your time or services to a charitable organization, reading to a child, or helping out a neighbor, co-worker, or friend. Any act of charity or kindness counts!

Anyone, anywhere can participate, regardless of how old (or young) you are, or where you live. All you have to do is decide what charitable or kind act you would like to do during "Feel the Love" week and e-mail it with your name and location as you would like it to appear on the pledge list. On Sept. 30, Lucy will be presented with the pledge list of all the charitable acts being done in her honor. To make sure your pledge gets recorded correctly please use the following format in your e-mail:

"In honor of Lucy Lawless Feel the Love Day, I will (insert your intended contribution), then put your name and location (city, state, country) as you want it to appear on the pledge list."

The subject of the email should be Feel the Love Day.

Please email your pledges to lucylawlessfanclub@dslextreme.com

The deadline for submitting pledges is September 30.

'Battlestar Galactica' Stars: Where Are They Now?

Lucy Lawless

D'Anna Biers

On BSG: The Cylon Number Three model was prone to soul-searching mysticism and general treachery. D'Anna's search for the Final Five (and her questionable taste in paramours) led to arguably the most existentially tragic destiny of any BSG character. (Put it this way: would you want to spend eternity in an irradiated wasteland?) Where is she now: Lawless stars in Spartacus: Blood and Sand as Lucretia, who's sort of like D'Anna with more cunning and less clothes.

Read More

The New Zealand Herald has an interesting article on how Auckland is carving out it's niche as the country's screen capital. Very interesting and of course they use Lucy and Xena.
Scans by Jo.

NZ Herald 20 September 2010

Auckland carves out its niche as country’s screen capital
The Super City will build on the region’s role as the service centre for feature films shot throughout New Zealand, reports Graeme Hunt

No corruption of the Hollywood name exists to describe Auckland’s screen production industry — ‘‘Auckwood’’ does not quite have the panache of Bollywood or Wellywood — but Auckland producers are happy to let the region speak for itself.

About 70 per cent of the New Zealand screen production industry — anything from television, animation, advertising, feature films and documentaries — is based in Auckland, although crews work at locations throughout the country.

There are significant production and post-production facilities in the central city. Henderson and Rodney but, more importantly, most of the business of screen production, especially finance and deal-making, takes place in Auckland.

The region has a strong history of producing local dramas, television commercials, post-production and visual effects, as well as international TV and film projects.

Feature films shot in Auckland include The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian, 30 Days of Night, No. 2, Sione’s Wedding, The Bridge to Terabithia, Whale Rider ( indoor scenes), Once Were Warriors and The Piano.

The region has also hosted a number of international television series, many of which were filmed and postproduced in Auckland, including Hercules, Xena: Warrior Princess, Jack of All Trades, Power Rangers and Spartacus. One-o f f t e l e vi s i o n productions, such as Murder in Greenwich, Riverworld (filmed largely at Wenderholm Regional Park), Maiden Voyage and Lucy:The Lucille Ball Story, also have Auckland credits.

Regional development agency AucklandPlus, soon to disappear under the Super City reorganisation, has had the screen production in industry in its sights for some years.

It co-ordinated New Zealand Trade & Enterprise’s Screen Production Major Regional Initiative established in 2004 to increase the number of projects undertaken by the industry and secure jobs for the specialised teams involved.

Lucy Lawless was on Good Morning on TV1 at 10:30 am today talking about Spring Clean and how she is helping out

The entire show has been posted online (I haven't been able to get it working but it could be my dodgy connection today)

Click here to view

Jo is also working on getting an copy for here on AUSXIP from the TV version. We'll get that up shortly.

Go to the AUSXIP page for more about Lucy's involvement in the Starship Spring Clean

News submitted by Jo

As we have all read, Andy Whitfield has been stricken once again with cancer resulting in needing treatment and bowing out of Season 2 of Spartacus.

This page has been set up to provide a way for fans to leave their support to Andy.

Lesley-Ann Brandt (Naevia) will be taking these messages with her when she goes to see Andy and his family in a week’s time. I’m quite sure Andy knows how much the fans love him but your words of encouragement will help him through the difficult times ahead.

Please leave your message below. If you would like to send Andy a video message, please post on YouTube and post a link to the YouTube site.

All messages will be moderated. Once again this site will be up for a week so Sunday to Sunday 26 September 2010. Lesley-Ann will take the messages with her and present them to Andy.

Click here to leave message

Please spread this message far and wide; let's show how much we love Andy!

NZ TV Alert: Lucy Lawless will be on Good Morning on TV1 at 10:30 am tomorrow talking about Spring Clean and how she is helping out

The video should be posted online on TV1


For more about Lucy's involvement in the Starship Spring Clean go here

You all remember this pic that was recently posted on Lucy's official site of Lucy in her Amazon leathers?
Lucy indicated in her latest blog that she was going to be appearing on Madeleine Sami's new show in the outfit made famous in the Xena episode "Dangerous Prey" (if memory serves me correctly, that's the episode Renee O'Connor directed).

Lucy borrowed the costume she gave Starship for the Starship Spring Clean to appear as a Xena type character. Judging by the scowl on her face, Xena was very much alive and well.

There was speculation that Lucy's guest appearance on Madeleine Sami's new show was called RadiRadiRah on TV3 - this is incorrect.

The name of the show is called Super City. A new comedy staring Madeleine Sami and directed by Taika Waititi. They have a facebook page up

They write about Lucy's guest appearance:

"Super City Thanks Lucy for getting into her old Xena outfit in our final week's shoot!"

For the larger pic of Lucy in her Amazon leathers go to the Official Lucy Lawless Fan Club page

News submitted by Barbara Davies

As reported back on 2 September 2010 Lucy and Rob went to the ITM Fishing Media Awards 2010 in NZ on 28 August 2010. Rob is very a passionate fisherman. The Fishing Media Awards will be televised in New Zealand on TV3 on 30 October at 5:00 pm.

Photo Link #1

Photo Link #2

There are now two more pictures of Lucy and Rob (in addition to the photos below)

You can purchase pictures taken of Lucy and Rob. The photos were taken by PORTRAIT PHOTOS - Jess Burges - Exposure Photographics. To purchase, email: jess@exposurenz.co.nz $15 each for 5x7 + $2.00 p/p

Click on the thumbnail to take you to the larger image on their Facebook page.

Click here to view album and purchase pics

The following report is from Voxy.co.nz with a Lucy and Rob quote:

Inaugural Fishing Awards Shuns Glitz

Fishing isn't regarded as the most glamorous vocation in the world, but the stars came out to walk the red carpet for the inaugural ITM Fishing Media Awards at the Copthorne Hotel & Resort in the Bay of Islands recently.

The flashy evening was put together by Matt Watson and his ITM Fishing Show team to mark their 150th episode.

"We have been to many different award shows over the years. The ITM fishing show awards were without a doubt the funniest, most enjoyable evening's worth of award presentation entertainment we have ever attended. Matt and the team presented a top notch show that perfectly highlighted their fantastic series". "We are eagerly awaiting the second annual ITM Fishing Media Awards." LUCY LAWLESS & ROB TAPPERT (sic)

I've sat through some boring awards nights with wanky speeches and out of control egos over the years, but the ITM fishing media awards was a breath of fresh air, real awards, real people...what a night... I even got to meet Lucy Lawless... she is a hottie. ROGER FARRELLY - The Rock

The ITM Fishing Media Awards will screen as an hour long feature on TV3 Saturday October 30 at 5.00pm.

Related Articles
- Rob and Lucy in Herald on Sunday 05 September 2010

Reported by Barbara Davies

The countdown to Lucy Lawless Feel The Love Day/Week has started. As a recap for those not familiar with Lucy Lawless Feel The Love Day (now week). It was started in 2006 to honour Lucy by Official Lucy Lawless Fan Club members. It kicks off a week of charitable donations and/or charitable acts in Lucy's name. You can find out more about this on AUSXIP Lucy Lawless Feel The Love Week info page

Starship has got a donation page for those that want to donate - so far it has raised $3,327.34! Click here to donate

The following is from Sharon Delaney at Lucy's Official site:

Lucy Feel The Love Day Pledge List Starting!

It's that time of the year! I've just posted the note on Lucy's website
and will start collecting the pledges. Yesterday I raised my hand at my
local shelter to start fostering kittens. Great timing <G>

www.lucylawlessfanclub.com

Roger scanned this great advert for the upcoming release of Spartacus: Blood and Sand Season 1 DVD / Blu-Ray set

Click here to view larger scan

Starship Spring Clean Auction update: Lucy has donated the FIN hat and the current bid is $200.00

This authentic Xena hat from the episode A Friend in Need (Finale of Season 6, 2000-2001) will certainly keep you cool this summer!

Generously donated by Starship ambassador Lucy Lawless.

The piece is a large, conical Asian style cane hat with black veils attached. Your purchase of this item will go directly to the kids at Starship!

Click here to bid (for Kiwis) | bid here for everyone else outside NZ

Find out more about Lucy's costumes on the Starship Spring Clean Auction

BITCH SLAP WINS AWARD!

Erin Cummings tweeted that Bitch Slap has won the "Golden Unicorn" for Best Picture,Screenplay and Acting/Ensemble Cast at Spain's Estepona Film Fest!

see larger pic of the award

For more about the Bitch Slap Movie - check out the official site

Season 6 Episode 4 Who's Gurkhan? Episode Stills

When Gabrielle learns that her niece has been captured by the vicious raider Gurkhan (Calvin Tuteao), she sets sail for North Africa on a rescue mission with Xena, Eve (Adrienne Wilkinson) and Virgil (William Gregory Lee).

VIEW EPISODE STILLS | BEHIND THE SCENES ON WHO'S GURKHAN?

My episode montage for Who's Gurkhan
Click here to view

SCRIBES & SCROLLS: Story by Robert Tapert. Teleplay by R.J. Stewart. Directed by Michael Hurst. Edited by Rob Field.

PASSING PARADE: Willa O'Neill (Lila); Adrienne Wilkinson (Eve);
William Gregory Lee (Virgil); Calvin Tuteao (Gurkhan); Tandie Wright (Sonata); Gina Varela (Milda); Michelle Langstone (Lana); Jo Lo (Yo).

DISCLAIMER: Xena's uncanny ability to recover from devastating wounds was not harmed during the production of this motion picture.

STORY SO FAR: Gabrielle goes to North Africa, seeking vengeance on the vicious raider who captured her niece and killed her parents and her sister’s husband years before.

Read SLK's Review | DJWP Review

Goodness! After all these years you would think it wouldn't matter but there is something about that this particular woman in amazon leathers/feathers that just gives me heart flutters AND that scowl on that face!

Lucy as Xena can make me grin like an idiot. This show has got under my skin and will never leave. Not that I want it to leave but you know after 15 years one's interest in something does come to an end but I see the reverse happening. Every time I see something Xena, the interest meter goes back up! Amazing.

It looks Lucy will be appearing on Madeleine Sami's new skit show called RadiRadiRah on TV3 according to a link Barbara sent me. Lucy donned the leathers and her world face scowl to appear in a skit! Go read about it on her site - she sent in a new message and photo

Anyways...Lucy dons the amazon outfit for a Madeline Sami show and she borrows the outfit she gave to Starship! Goodness (#2) the last time Lucy wore that outfit was when she was 32! She's now 42 and looking better than ever.

For those that have forgotten (what? seriously?) what Lucy looked like aged 32 wearing the Amazon leathers...click on the pic to refresh your memory




Want to see Lucy wearing the same outfit aged 42? Go here

and one more time that wonderful scowl...

(I am having fun writing this post and looking for Xena scowling pics!)

Lucy Lawless – Spirit of a Warrior Music Video

This video is a tribute to Lucy Lawless and it’s highlights Lucy’s contributions to Starship and other worthy causes. In light of September 21 – 28, 2010 is Lucy Lawless Feel the Love week, it’s a great video to showcase Lucy’s giving nature. The video was showcased at the 2010 Official Xena Convention in LA in February 2010.

It’s called Spirit of a Warrior and it was created by Lynne Krause.

View Video on AUSXIP Video Lucy Lawless Channel

Starship has posted behind the scene photos from the Starship Spring Clean video shoot.

Check out more photos on Facebook

Find out more about Lucy's Xena costume donations and how you can bid on them (even if you don't live in NZ)

News submitted by Barbara Davies

The following article was in the East and Bays Courier on 10 September 2010 about the Starship Spring Clean Auction and Lucy's donated Xena outfits.

The other person in this cut photo is Zoe Bell (see left).

Click here to find out more about the Starship Spring Clean Auction

East & Bays Courier - 10 September 2010 New Zealand

Congratulations to Mr and Mrs Ryan for achieving 50 years together; it's quite a feat in this day and age (my parents celebrated their 50th in July as well!). You can see from the photo where Lucy gets her megawatt smile from :)

The following article was in Auckland Harbour News 10 September 2010

Stalwarts say love and respect the golden key

Mutual love and respect keep Frank and Julie Ryan going strong, as does their commitment to Mt Albert.

Last month, the former mayor and mayoress of Mt Albert celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary surrounded by family and friends at their daughter, actress Lucy Lawless' home, for a party that was "bigger than the wedding".

"It was a great celebration. It was so good to see the cousins all together. It was a lovely party full of loud talkers," says Mrs Ryan, who has seven children and 16 grandchildren with her husband.

"It makes me wonder, `Where has the time gone?'," Mr Ryan says.

Mr Ryan was born in Hamilton and is the second youngest of eight boys. As one of two sets of twins, his mother died when he was 10 months old.

"There was nothing easy in those days," he says.

Mrs Ryan, with three sisters and three brothers, moved to Auckland from Kaitaia for university and met her future husband at her flatmate's 21st birthday in Epsom.

"It was a rainy night and he ploughed up the landlord's new lawn in his car when he left. Well the next day he came back with a packet of seed so I thought that was a bit of all right."

"She noticed my good looks," Mr Ryan says.

"And I guess she realised I wasn't such a bad old boiled egg after all."

Mrs Ryan was teaching at Mt Roskill Grammar School and Mr Ryan was a real estate agent turned insurance broker when they married in 1960 in Kaitaia's St Joseph's Church. They spent their honeymoon in Paihia and Orewa before settling down in Mt Albert.

In 1965, Mr Ryan became a local councillor and in 1968, with five children under the age of eight, he promised his wife he would build a local library if he was elected mayor of Mt Albert.

"That was the pay-off for me," says Mrs Ryan.

Mr Ryan beat incumbent mayor Don Croot and represented Mt Albert until the 1989 amalgamation.

Following that, he became chairman of the transition board and has always been in favour of the one-city concept.

He retired from politics in 2001.

"After 36 years in local government I've seen a lot of things happen. And this time around with the cost of things, it's a bit bewildering what politicians are going to try to do."

A lot of progress was made during the Ryans' time in Mt Albert's hot-seat including the building of Mt Albert Library, the aquatic centre, pensioner housing and a senior citizens' hall.

Mrs Ryan was also busy with the Mayoress Welfare Committee that ran a furniture store, and together the couple attended many bowling club openings, wedding anniversaries and other social events.
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But the secret to their golden marriage is no secret, says Mrs Ryan.

"He's very good natured, but I don't let him get away with anything."

Mr Ryan agrees. "It goes both ways. She not only helps me, she helps everybody," he says. "Base your marriage on love and respect first, and the rest will fall into place."

Source

Article submitted by Barbara Davies

Lucy Lawless Interview: Spartacus - Gods of the Arena [TV]

Lucy Lawless is starring in a new TV series based on the historical figure of Spartacus (played by Andy Whitfield), a Thracian gladiator who from 73 to 71 BC led a major slave uprising against the Roman Republic. Lucy joined me by phone on set where she is currently filming the prequel 'Gods of the Arena'.

Hot off the presses - just got the following from Starship - they have set up a donation page for Lucy Feel The Love Day!

Thanks for visiting Lucy Lawless' Feel the Love Day fundraising page for Starship Foundation.

The day kicks off a week of charitable acts and donations by fans in honour and support of Lucy. On the 27th of September, Lucy will be presented with a single red rose and the list of all those who have donated to Starship in her honour.

This will be the fifth year for the annual "Lucy Lawless Feel the Love Day".

Please could you consider making a donation to one of Lucy's favourite charities - Starship Children's Hospital, in Auckland, New Zealand?

Each year Starship cares for close to 150,000 children.

Starship is often the last and best hope for a sick or injured child. Your donations made in honour of Lucy will help ensure that Starship remains a world class medical facility.

Select the "Make a donation" button below. It's simple, fast and totally secure.

If you live in New Zealand your donation is tax deductible and a receipt will be issued.

Many thanks for your love and support of Lucy and Starship.

http://www.fundraiseonline.co.nz/StarshipFoundation/ 
 

The following tweet was posted about a possible radio interview with Lucy

Chatting with Lucy Lawless soon. Any Spartacus fans out there? Anything you just HAVE to know about the series?
about 6 hours ago via Seesmic Desktop

radiowammo
Glenn Williams

[Bio Host of the Radio Wammo Breakfast Show on the Kiwi FM Network in New Zealand] Source

News submitted by Barbara Davies

Lucy donated yet another dress to the Starship Spring Clean Auction:

Current Bid: $600 (Reserve has been met)

This stunning green silk dress was worn by Lucy for the NATPE industry convention in New Orleans in 1997. Made just for Lucy, we can't guarantee the size, but we would guess around a New Zealand 8-10.
(US size: 6-8 and UK size: 8 -10) - Check here for other countries

Click here to bid (for Kiwis) and

bid here for everyone else outside NZ

Find out more about Lucy's costumes on the Starship Spring Clean Auction

On tonight's episode of Spartacus Blood and Sand - Season 1 Episode 5: Shadow Games on Australian channel GO!

Shadow Games -Batiatus is presented with a gladiatorial opportunity of a lifetime. Spartacus and Crixus must overcome their mutual hostility to fight as a team against a legendary and unbeaten opponent.

VIEW EPISODE STILLS

VIDEO PROMOS

Added the following magazine cover for TV Musor Tele Hold July 2010 to the Lucy Lawless Magazine Covers gallery for 2010

You can find more Lucy Lawless covers from 1996 - 2010 including 1996-2001 Xena Magazine covers

Scan contributed by Chris

Lesley-Ann's tweets are coming through from the set of Spartacus: Gods of the Arena:

Things you hear on Spartacus, "ur waxing my rug". As the camera assistant pulls gaffa tape off fur rug in opposite direction. Thanks Lucy! 22 hours ago reply

Nothing like a sex scene on Spartacus to smack you in the face and say "good morning"!!!!! Ha ha ha ha 23 hours ago reply

up and off to work. Episode 3 of the prequel and we have Michael Hurst directing!!! yesterday reply

Follow Lesley-Ann on Twitter

Xena kit: worn by Lucy Lawless in Dangerous Prey

Current bid: $450.00

**remember if you live outside NZ you can still bid. Click here to find out how - via Starship***

This authentic Xena outfit from the episode Dangerous Prey (Season 6, 2000-2001) will have you playing your very own warrior princess part in the living room.

Generously donated by Starship ambassador Lucy Lawless. Get into character with this revealing two piece brown suede and leather two piece featuring bodice, waist wrap, wrist wraps and arm band. Your purchase of this item will go directly to the kids at Starship!

Click here to bid (for Kiwis) and bid here for everyone else

Find out more about Lucy's costumes on the Starship Spring Clean Auction

NZ Sunday News 05 September 2010 promoting Starship's Spring Clean Auction! Click here for more about Lucy's costume donations

The Herald on Sunday newspaper today (05 September 2010) has a photo of Lucy and Rob attending the ITM Fishing Awards on 28 August 2010. They wrongly describe Lucy has not knowing anything about fishing (Lucy is a keen fisherman). Rob and Lucy both attended the awards and Lucy presented an award. The Fishing Media Awards will be televised in New Zealand on TV3 on 30 October at 5:00 pm. Click on the thumbnail for the larger scan

You can purchase pictures taken of Lucy and Rob from this event (not the photo above). The photos were taken by PORTRAIT PHOTOS - Jess Burges - Exposure Photographics. To purchase, email: jess@exposurenz.co.nz $15 each for 5x7 + $2.00 p/p

* Lucy Photos from The ITM Fishing Media Awards 2010 - Award Presentation
* Lucy & Rob at The ITM Fishing Media Awards 2010 on 28 August 2010

Spartacus Season 1 Episode 4 The Thing in the Pit.
Edited Australian Version
Reviewed by MaryD

Having performed shamefully in the arena against Crixus, Spartacus is forced to fight in the Pits. Batiatus, determined to profit from Spartacus, may be at risk if his debts aren’t repaid.

Here are my thoughts of the episode. I didn't review the unedited version way back in Feb so I don't have notes to compare this version with that but I'm going from memory (please correct me if I'm wrong)

Read Review

In A Time of Ancient Gods, Warlords and Kings....
Written by MaryD

In the time of ancient Gods, Warlords and Kings, a land in turmoil cried out for a hero...and we found her..actually we found two of them!

The story goes back to March 1995 and not September 1995. It goes back to a time of gods and kings and to the legendary Hercules. Xena was born on Hercules on 13 March 1995. We all know what happened; we know the history but because I'm writing a 15 year tribute...we go down memory lane.

Read More

As many of you know, there was an earthquake in New Zealand today in the South Island which caused a great deal of damage (see below)

The following message was posted by Sharon Delaney on Lucy's official fan club list:

I've been in touch with Lucy. Everything's fine in Auckland. Our thoughts are with the people in Christchurch and the surrounding area.

Sharon
Official Lucy Lawless Fan Club

Follow the latest on NZ Herald's Earthquake Updates

(the video is from the Australian Sky News channel)

Starship has released a video promoting the Starship Spring Clean auction which features Lucy (she's throwing in the outfit she wore on Dangerous Prey.

You can only bid on the Starship Spring Clean and the Lucy goodies on offer if you have a New Zealand bank account, but, if you live outside of New Zealand and wish to bid on these exclusive items, Starship can help you.. read more

For more about Lucy's donations to the Starship Spring Clean go here

Here is the video

I've been getting alot of emails regarding how you can bid on items in the Starship Spring Clean on trademe. I suspect some people were distracted by the Lucy pic to notice Starship's offer for overseas fans that was also posted along with the info (I know, Lucy in a a box is a distraction...we have been saying that Lucy can wear a sack and she would look awesome..well a sack, a box..same thing <g>)

Here is the info:

IMPORTANT - PLEASE READ:

You can only bid on the Starship Spring Clean and the Lucy goodies on offer if you have a New Zealand bank account, but, if you live outside of New Zealand and wish to bid on these exclusive items, we can help!

Here's what you need to do:

- Check out www.trademe.co.nz/starship and work out which item(s) you want to bid on.

- Email the auction item number and description, your opening bid and credit card details to cindyc@adhb.govt.nz and we will place a bid on your behalf if your specified amount is above the current bid. If you would prefer to phone us with your credit card details, please phone (+64-9- 307 4957)

- For your credit card details, we require: type of card, card number, name on card, expiry date

- Then, keep an eye on the auction you are interested in, and continue to email any bid amounts through to the above email address.

- Although every effort will be made to place a bid on your behalf, we unfortunately cannot guarantee this.

- Due to international time differences, bids may not be placed immediately. They will be placed, however, in the order they are received, and assuming the current bid has not exceeded your specified bid amount.

- At the conclusion of the auction, if you are the winning bidder, your payment will be processed on the credit card details you provided. You will be notified of your purchase and we will send it out to you.

- All other credit card details will be destroyed.

Click here for more about the Starship Spring Clean and Lucy's donations

Here are more photos from the The ITM Fishing Media Awards 2010 - Award presentation which was held on 28 August 2010

You can purchase pictures taken of Lucy. The photos were taken by PORTRAIT PHOTOS - Jess Burges - Exposure Photographics. To purchase, email: jess@exposurenz.co.nz $15 each for 5x7 + $2.00 p/p

Click here to view album and purchase pics

News submitted by Barbara Davies

Lucy and Rob went to the ITM Fishing Media Awards 2010 in NZ on 28 August 2010. Rob is very a passionate fisherman. The Fishing Media Awards will be televised in New Zealand on TV3 on 30 October at 5:00 pm.

You can purchase pictures taken of Lucy and Rob. The photos were taken by PORTRAIT PHOTOS - Jess Burges - Exposure Photographics. To purchase, email: jess@exposurenz.co.nz $15 each for 5x7 + $2.00 p/p

Click on the thumbnail to take you to the larger image on their Facebook page.

The following report is from Voxy.co.nz with a Lucy and Rob quote:

Inaugural Fishing Awards Shuns Glitz

Fishing isn't regarded as the most glamorous vocation in the world, but the stars came out to walk the red carpet for the inaugural ITM Fishing Media Awards at the Copthorne Hotel & Resort in the Bay of Islands recently.

The flashy evening was put together by Matt Watson and his ITM Fishing Show team to mark their 150th episode.

"We have been to many different award shows over the years. The ITM fishing show awards were without a doubt the funniest, most enjoyable evening's worth of award presentation entertainment we have ever attended. Matt and the team presented a top notch show that perfectly highlighted their fantastic series". "We are eagerly awaiting the second annual ITM Fishing Media Awards." LUCY LAWLESS & ROB TAPPERT (sic)

I've sat through some boring awards nights with wanky speeches and out of control egos over the years, but the ITM fishing media awards was a breath of fresh air, real awards, real people...what a night... I even got to meet Lucy Lawless... she is a hottie. ROGER FARRELLY - The Rock

The ITM Fishing Media Awards will screen as an hour long feature on TV3 Saturday October 30 at 5.00pm.

Reported by Barbara Davies and Julie H

LUCY'S SPRING CLEANING FOR STARSHIP

Bid on Items Via Starship | Video | Lucy's Donated Costumes

UPDATE: 08 September 2010
Added Lucy's Green Silk Dress auction details - see below

UPDATE: 06 September 2010:
Added Lucy's Dangerous Prey costume auction details - see below

01 September 2010

Received the following from Starship ! Don't you just love Lucy's sense of humour! Updated to include the High Res Lucy Photo - Many thanks to Starship for the image!.

LUCY'S SPRING CLEANING FOR STARSHIP!

And she wants you to get stuck in too We know you love Lucy and we love her too - and now Lucy's throwing her support behind our latest fundraising appeal, Starship Spring Clean. Our amazing Starship ambassador has cleaned out her wardrobe and given us an exclusive collection of five outfits she wore in the show that made her an international superstar - Xena Warrior Princess. Check out the end of this email for a description of Lucy's costumes up for auction. Now is your chance to bid on these authentic items - and support one of Lucy's favourite causes in the process - Starship Children's Hospital in Auckland, New Zealand.

Starship is New Zealand's national children's hospital and treats close to 150,000 children each year from around New Zealand at the Pacific. Currently Starship is raising money to rebuild its level 6 Neuroservices and Medical Specialties wards, which treat some of the rarest and most critically ill children from around the country. "Get stuck in for Starship," says Lucy. "Visit www.trademe.co.nz/starship"

STARSHIP VIDEO

IMPORTANT - PLEASE READ THIS FIRST IF YOU ARE AN OVERSEAS FANS AND WOULD LIKE TO BID ON THE ITEMS

You can only bid on the Starship Spring Clean if you have a New Zealand bank account, but, if you live outside of New Zealand and wish to bid on these exclusive items, we can help!

Here's what you need to do:

- Check out www.trademe.co.nz/starship and work out which item(s) you want to bid on.

- Email the auction item number and description, your opening bid and credit card details to cindyc@adhb.govt.nz and we will place a bid on your behalf if your specified amount is above the current bid. If you would prefer to phone us with your credit card details, please phone (+64-9-307 4957)

- For your credit card details, we require: type of card, card number, name on card, expiry date

- Then, keep an eye on the auction you are interested in, and continue to email any bid amounts through to the above email address.

- Although every effort will be made to place a bid on your behalf, we unfortunately cannot guarantee this.

- Due to international time differences, bids may not be placed immediately. They will be placed, however, in the order they are received, and assuming the current bid has not exceeded your specified bid amount.

- At the conclusion of the auction, if you are the winning bidder, your payment will be processed on the credit card details you provided. You will be notified of your purchase and we will send it out to you.

- All other credit card details will be destroyed.

What is Lucy selling for Starship?

Xena outfit worn by Lucy Lawless in 'Legacy' Authentic Xena Warrior Princess outfit worn in episode the episode 'Legacy' (Season 6, 2000-2001) which featured Xena and companion Gabrielle visiting a desert tribe.		Xena outfit worn by Lucy Lawless in 'Here she comes... Miss Amphipolis' (Season 2, 1996-1997) where Xena dresses as a beauty pageant contestant.
Xena outfit worn by Renee O'Connor in 'If the Shoe Fits' One of Gabrielle's original dresses from the fantasy scene in 'If the Shoe Fits' (Season 4, 1998-1999), where Gabrielle lives out her Cinderella dream.		Xena outfit worn by Lucy Lawless in 'Who's Gurkhan' One of Xena's more saucy costumes worn in the episode 'Who's Gurkhan' (Season 6, 2000-2001) where Xena and Gabrielle pose as members of a harem.
Xena kit: worn by Lucy Lawless in Dangerous Prey Current bid: $450.00 **remember if you live outside NZ you can still bid. Click here to find out how - via Starship*** This authentic Xena outfit from the episode Dangerous Prey (Season 6, 2000-2001) will have you playing your very own warrior princess part in the living room. Generously donated by Starship ambassador Lucy Lawless. Get into character with this revealing two piece brown suede and leather two piece featuring bodice, waist wrap, wrist wraps and arm band. Your purchase of this item will go directly to the kids at Starship! Click here to bid (for Kiwis) and bid here for everyone else		Lucy Green Silk Dress Lucy donated yet another dress to the Starship Spring Clean Auction: Current Bid: $600 (Reserve has been met) This stunning green silk dress was worn by Lucy for the NATPE industry convention in New Orleans in 1997. Made just for Lucy, we can't guarantee the size, but we would guess around a New Zealand 8-10. (US size: 6-8 and UK size: 8 -10) - Check here for other countries Click here to bid (for Kiwis) and bid here for everyone else outside NZ Find out more about Lucy's costumes on the Starship Spring Clean Auction

Hot off the presses from Starz/Anchor Bay is a video promoting the Spartacus DVD & Blu-Ray release with a brief look at the extras

Season 1 Episode 4 The Thing in the Pit
Tonight on GO! at 9:30 pm

Having performed shamefully in the arena against Crixus, Spartacus is forced to fight in the Pits. Batiatus, determined to profit from Spartacus, may be at risk if his debts aren’t repaid.

PREVIEW | EPISODE STILLS | EPISODE RECAP (SPOILERS)

Media host - Josie Lee (interviewing actor Lucy Lawless - Spartacus, Xena Warrior Princess)

The From Dusk 'Til Con Party. Interviewing Lucy Lawless (Spartacus, Xena Warrior Princess).

Click here to view photo

News submitted by Barbara Davies

Chance to spring clean and raise funds for Starship renovation

New Zealanders are being asked to clean up and sell off their unwanted goods for Starship Children's Hospital. The Starship Spring Clean involves people selling their unwanted goods on Trade Me and pledging all or part of the proceeds to Starship Hospital in Auckland.

People can also bid on goods and experiences donated by celebrities, such as a walk-on part in Shortland Street.

Funds raised will go toward a major rebuild of the Level 6 neurological and medical specialty wards.

The fundraiser runs through September at www.trademe.co.nz/starship. People can give $20 by dialling 0900 STARSHIP or text STAR to 469 to give $3.

Read More

See Lucy Related Items Donated by Lucy to Starship
- Starship Foundation Lucy Xena Costumes on Auction

See Renee Related Items Donated by Lucy to Starship
- Starship Foundation Auction - Xena Outfit Worn by Renee O'Connor

Mr Vintage is selling two specially designed Starship t-shirts this month with 15% of every sale being donated to Starship. Price is $29.95 NZD

Great pressie idea for friends, family so pass it on and get purchasing!

The t-shirt is called whetu aroha - the star of hope, compassion, love.

Check out Mr. Vintage www.mrvintage.co.nz!