A roundtable discussion among Russian lawmakers condemned Western animation, toys, and video games, alleging a negative influence on Russian children. State Duma deputy Yana Lantratova highlighted the perceived shift from positive Soviet-era characters to flawed Western counterparts like Shrek and the Grinch. The lawmakers argued that these characters, despite seeming innocuous, promote undesirable traits while being presented as positive role models. This cultural infiltration, they claimed, erodes the image of the purely positive character prevalent in Soviet media.
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Perry, the beloved donkey who served as the model for Donkey in the iconic Shrek films, has passed away at the age of 30. It’s a genuinely sad occasion for many, a testament to the impact this remarkable animal had on the hearts of millions, even indirectly, through his cinematic counterpart. His passing reminds us of the often-unseen contributions animals make to the entertainment world, shaping beloved characters and leaving an indelible mark on popular culture.
Perry’s lifespan, reaching 30 years, is a significant one for a donkey. While the average lifespan is reported to range between 27 and 40 years, with some exceptionally long-lived donkeys surpassing 50, reaching the three-decade mark is still a notable achievement.… Continue reading
Beloved Palo Alto donkey Perry, the inspiration for the 2001 film *Shrek*, passed away at age 30 due to incurable laminitis. The Barron Park Donkey Project, which cared for Perry since 1997, reported that he was surrounded by love in his final weeks. A city mascot, Perry’s legacy includes a long history in Barron Park, dating back to the 1950s. While plans for a memorial service are pending, Perry’s memory will live on.
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John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood