Apparently, karaoke is seen more in Vietnam than just a recreational thing. According to Vietnamese newspaper, Tien Phong, 21 officials from Petrovietnam's financial arm PVFC are expected to write "self criticisms" for not participating in karaoke on Saturday night.

Vietnam's state oil monopoly Petrovietnam's financial arm PVFC ordered 21 officials to make "self-criticism" reports for not singing karaoke at a contract-signing ceremony near Hanoi on Saturday. Tien Phong (Pioneer) newspaper reported on Wednesday that at least eight department heads were facing suspension.

A Danish prince has incensed animal rights activists by saying he loves dogs - delicately sliced and lightly fried. Prince Henrik of Denmark reportedly told a magazine: "Dog meat tastes like rabbit. Like dried baby goat. Or perhaps - I know! - like veal. Like the veal of a baby suckling calf, only drier. "

The Russian who designed the most popular assault rifle ever made says the use of his gun in Iraq proves it is still superior to other weapons. Mikhail Kalashnikov says, "Even after lying in a swamp you can pick up this rifle, aim it and shoot. That's the best job description there is for a gun. Real soldiers know that and understand it. "

Vietnam's government against "social evils" has evidently targeted Karaoke bars since they will no longer be allowed to sell or have alcohol on their premises. Under the new legislation that went into effect Thursday, karaoke bars, along with discotheques, are legally bound to close at midnight.