Earthy space for recycled waste : "Fast-forward to the present, and the Co-operative Research Centre for Contamination Assessment and Remediation of the Environment, based at the University of South Australia, is testing ways of turning millions of tonnes of industrial waste into soil for gardens, yards, parks and residential estates."
Read the whole article. It's fascinating. It's a way of using fly ash ,in particular, with all sorts of waste material which will enrich our soils and increase water holding capacity. I'm inspired! We need to hear more about this project. It is critical to what we need but it's also amazingly interesting as a process. It is pulling together a whole number of our problems and using them to fix other problems. Don't you think that's clever? I hope Professor Haynes gets himself out there to bring us the news and information!...the book, the YouTube video, the podcast..the DVD...the T Shirts, the calico bags. Truly. I am not joking. This is is a great green idea. What about the home kit, so we can have our own ecological experiment at home??
Saturday, June 30, 2007
Green light for Adelaide water recycling projects
Green light for Adelaide water recycling projects : "'The project also includes an upgrade of the capacity on the Christies Beach Wastewater Treatment to provide Class A water for use in the viticulture industry and for community facilities,' he said.
'This additional water will be sourced from treated effluent that has historically been discharged into the Gulf St Vincent.'"
While they are busy haggling about which projects and how much money, let's keep our eye on the ball and just say...well done. At this stage moving forward is better than being at a stand still. We are in a prime wine growing state and we have to look after that industry. As South Australians we have also had some very intense conversations about using treated waste water to grow our crops and plants and flush our toilets. We shouldn't be using Murray Water for that. We can fit 14 and a half Frances into Australia , population of 61,167,000 million, we have a population of 21 million. We can become very dry and very hot, but we also get some huge deluges when we get them. We just need to think through this water management better. No one comes to Australia so they cannot flush a toilet or take a reasonable shower. We need to get our act together with water management, so argue as much as you like, put the pressure on. We are doing our bit at home and we can do more . Just give us the goods, the ideas and the services. We'll do the rest because we are very keen to be sensible and proactive!
'This additional water will be sourced from treated effluent that has historically been discharged into the Gulf St Vincent.'"
While they are busy haggling about which projects and how much money, let's keep our eye on the ball and just say...well done. At this stage moving forward is better than being at a stand still. We are in a prime wine growing state and we have to look after that industry. As South Australians we have also had some very intense conversations about using treated waste water to grow our crops and plants and flush our toilets. We shouldn't be using Murray Water for that. We can fit 14 and a half Frances into Australia , population of 61,167,000 million, we have a population of 21 million. We can become very dry and very hot, but we also get some huge deluges when we get them. We just need to think through this water management better. No one comes to Australia so they cannot flush a toilet or take a reasonable shower. We need to get our act together with water management, so argue as much as you like, put the pressure on. We are doing our bit at home and we can do more . Just give us the goods, the ideas and the services. We'll do the rest because we are very keen to be sensible and proactive!
Man jailed for injecting sons with drugs
AdelaideNow... Man jailed for injecting sons with drugs: "AN American man who injected his sons with heroin and cocaine so they would understand how he felt when he used drugs has been sentenced to 10 years' jail, Associated Press (AP) reported."
His sons were 12 and 16 and he had also injected his 18 year old daughter and had not been charged with that because of her age. Tends to suggest there was considerable force used. How many children that age would just sit there and take it? There were three of them. Did they alert each other? Were they together or separate at the time because it tends to suggest they kept incredibly silent about it. What made him think it would help in any way shape or form if his children felt how he felt? What was it that would make him think that would benefit them or him in any way? His thinking is obviously very irrational and it sounds like a FAS thought. There is no nurturing in him but he obviously needed to be understood by his children. I don't think gaol will help him. Someone needs to get inside his head and work that lot out. Someone also needs to look at the children because if they made no attempt to stop it there are another 3 addicts on the books.
His sons were 12 and 16 and he had also injected his 18 year old daughter and had not been charged with that because of her age. Tends to suggest there was considerable force used. How many children that age would just sit there and take it? There were three of them. Did they alert each other? Were they together or separate at the time because it tends to suggest they kept incredibly silent about it. What made him think it would help in any way shape or form if his children felt how he felt? What was it that would make him think that would benefit them or him in any way? His thinking is obviously very irrational and it sounds like a FAS thought. There is no nurturing in him but he obviously needed to be understood by his children. I don't think gaol will help him. Someone needs to get inside his head and work that lot out. Someone also needs to look at the children because if they made no attempt to stop it there are another 3 addicts on the books.
Church bells too loud
Church bells take toll on neighbourhood : "Reverend Mike Hawke is dismayed by the Christchurch City Council's decision and wonders why anyone would move next to a church and not expect its bells to take some toll on Sunday."
Very funny, but point well made. How much have we changed?? I can remember when it would have been sacrilege to complain about anything to do with churches. The church had a powerful and respected place in terms of being one of the things which held us together and reinforced us even if we were not Christian. Religion was sacred and the respect for it was just simply there. Now, churches have no more value than anything else we have so if the bells make noise then the neighbours can complain. The individual belief is far more sacred than anything else. We are incredibly self serving and it's not surprising we feel cut off and adrift. Something has to glue society together and if it's about what the individual wants then it's no wonder we are disgruntled and squabbling...and climbing over each other to riches. What is the thing which binds us? What values? What belief systems? What is our social glue?
Very funny, but point well made. How much have we changed?? I can remember when it would have been sacrilege to complain about anything to do with churches. The church had a powerful and respected place in terms of being one of the things which held us together and reinforced us even if we were not Christian. Religion was sacred and the respect for it was just simply there. Now, churches have no more value than anything else we have so if the bells make noise then the neighbours can complain. The individual belief is far more sacred than anything else. We are incredibly self serving and it's not surprising we feel cut off and adrift. Something has to glue society together and if it's about what the individual wants then it's no wonder we are disgruntled and squabbling...and climbing over each other to riches. What is the thing which binds us? What values? What belief systems? What is our social glue?
Friday, June 29, 2007
Rest in peace
Rest in peace : "His attempts to get to sleep were interrupted by the noisy machine that was keeping the 76-year-old in the next bed breathing, so he turned it off."
This was a 17 year old living up to expectation. It's all about them and what they want . They are so self absorbed they are totally oblivious to the needs of others. Even staying alive is irrelevant to them. Luckily the nurses could keep the older man alive...and contacted the police. We really have to stop this destructive egotism. It's really wearing thin and the glib responses are intolerable.
Who is a narcissist?
This was a 17 year old living up to expectation. It's all about them and what they want . They are so self absorbed they are totally oblivious to the needs of others. Even staying alive is irrelevant to them. Luckily the nurses could keep the older man alive...and contacted the police. We really have to stop this destructive egotism. It's really wearing thin and the glib responses are intolerable.
Who is a narcissist?
Abandoned dogs need toys
AdelaideNow... Abandoned dogs need toys: "Anything with stuffing is not considered suitable as it presents a choking hazard. Dog toys can be donated at either of the League's shelters at Wingfield and Elizabeth West."
I am certain people will donate items but it would be really nice to have some pick up points around the city. We are good at getting things together for a cause but to get things out to Wingfield and Elizabeth is hard for some areas. The animal welfare league is fantastic as is the RSPCA and we'll help...but a drop off place would be good. I can't even post them because the post office is shut when I go to work and when I leave.
I am certain people will donate items but it would be really nice to have some pick up points around the city. We are good at getting things together for a cause but to get things out to Wingfield and Elizabeth is hard for some areas. The animal welfare league is fantastic as is the RSPCA and we'll help...but a drop off place would be good. I can't even post them because the post office is shut when I go to work and when I leave.
SA worst for catching burglars
AdelaideNow... SA worst for catching burglars: "'The community has a perception that the police don't take these types of crimes as seriously and this needs to be addressed.'"
The police do take it very seriously and they are really fantastic. My home was broken into and my sister's. In the end my sister's home break in was solved because the little kids came back and my brother in law caught them and reported that to the police. Two little kids. They had completely trashed the house. My own break in was a trashing too and everything had been gone through. People are looking for cash. We use credit cards these days! So my window was broken and I still think I must have come home while they were there and they slipped out the way they came. It is traumatic. It makes you feel guilty! It makes you, the invaded person feel stupid and guilty. Even though we had nothing stolen we reported it and the police came around. My sister's was when we had gone out for my Mum's 70th birthday and the cake we had waiting was trashed and ruined. For me it was 2 daughters looking at all their things being thrown around and everything treated with such disrespect and then all the glass. So much glass. The police had some good finger prints and my glass is very unusual..but they didn't find anyone. The police made it easier to deal with and they helped to get it in perspective. The way they handled both situations was confidence inspiring and their whole manner and comportment made it easier to bear and manage. They have a real professional pride in the job they do, but I was impressed with their efficient, easy, friendly manner, because , to be honest, I was expecting that what happened was nothing in the scheme of things and it would be treated as such. Not so. We were respected.
The police do take it very seriously and they are really fantastic. My home was broken into and my sister's. In the end my sister's home break in was solved because the little kids came back and my brother in law caught them and reported that to the police. Two little kids. They had completely trashed the house. My own break in was a trashing too and everything had been gone through. People are looking for cash. We use credit cards these days! So my window was broken and I still think I must have come home while they were there and they slipped out the way they came. It is traumatic. It makes you feel guilty! It makes you, the invaded person feel stupid and guilty. Even though we had nothing stolen we reported it and the police came around. My sister's was when we had gone out for my Mum's 70th birthday and the cake we had waiting was trashed and ruined. For me it was 2 daughters looking at all their things being thrown around and everything treated with such disrespect and then all the glass. So much glass. The police had some good finger prints and my glass is very unusual..but they didn't find anyone. The police made it easier to deal with and they helped to get it in perspective. The way they handled both situations was confidence inspiring and their whole manner and comportment made it easier to bear and manage. They have a real professional pride in the job they do, but I was impressed with their efficient, easy, friendly manner, because , to be honest, I was expecting that what happened was nothing in the scheme of things and it would be treated as such. Not so. We were respected.
Young girl assaulted
AdelaideNow... Young girl assaulted: "He has short, cropped, dark hair, bushy eyebrows, clean shaven and about 180cm tall.
He covered his face with a white cloth and was wearing a black jumper with red cuffs and light blue pants."
Find him! He's about 30-40 and Caucasian and he went in the back door and indecently assaulted a little girl. Two women in a room next door heard nothing until it was too late. This is horrible. Horrible we have to lock absolutely everything and live like prisoners. Horrible that it was at 8pm and when a lot of people would be at home and kids in bed or their bedrooms. People just do not have any boundaries these days. Find him.
He covered his face with a white cloth and was wearing a black jumper with red cuffs and light blue pants."
Find him! He's about 30-40 and Caucasian and he went in the back door and indecently assaulted a little girl. Two women in a room next door heard nothing until it was too late. This is horrible. Horrible we have to lock absolutely everything and live like prisoners. Horrible that it was at 8pm and when a lot of people would be at home and kids in bed or their bedrooms. People just do not have any boundaries these days. Find him.
Thursday, June 28, 2007
The grass is finally greener for some farmers
The grass is finally greener for some farmers : "Mr Basham said the need to buy feed for his livestock had threatened to drive the business into debt. Now, his 350 Holstein Friesian milkers are being sustained by pastures that have turned lush and green under the welcome grey skies."
Good news indeed because our farmers have been doing it hard with bush fires, drought, wind...you name it, they've coped with it. They are remarkable people and are starting to wake up to the fact that we do actually care about them and they should not feel worried about asking for help when they need it. It grieves us to find out we could have helped but we didn't know. City and town folk can build bonds, ties and respect for each other. Yes...it has gone green. Our hills are green. Such a surprising site after the crispy brown of summer!
Good news indeed because our farmers have been doing it hard with bush fires, drought, wind...you name it, they've coped with it. They are remarkable people and are starting to wake up to the fact that we do actually care about them and they should not feel worried about asking for help when they need it. It grieves us to find out we could have helped but we didn't know. City and town folk can build bonds, ties and respect for each other. Yes...it has gone green. Our hills are green. Such a surprising site after the crispy brown of summer!
We're old and poor
AdelaideNow... We're old and poor: "SOUTH Australians are older and earn less than the rest of the nation, the 15th annual Census shows."
Really? The census also tells us we are less religious and more multicultural, but do you know what? It doesn't describe South Australia and its people at all. We are quite a happy lot. We are all sick at the moment with some stupid bug and our cultural mix and linguistic capacities are lending a depth and breadth to us which we savour and enjoy. We are easy going and quite laid back. We aren't actually older if you look at the average age of Australians. Thing is, age brings stability and wisdom! We've actually quietly forged ahead with a lot of ideas and initiatives and we are becoming less material and more community oriented. We have worked out that big houses and heaps of money were not making us happy and well. We weren't thriving. So we've pulled our heads in and we've started to become more sociable and friendly. We've gone back to our community ways. So we mix, match and share in all sorts of ways. The figures say nothing about quality of life and comfort. We've started to value who we are and the assets we have around us. We've become more nurturing. Measure that. We are appreciating life in the slow lane more and more but when we want to party we can bring down the house.
Really? The census also tells us we are less religious and more multicultural, but do you know what? It doesn't describe South Australia and its people at all. We are quite a happy lot. We are all sick at the moment with some stupid bug and our cultural mix and linguistic capacities are lending a depth and breadth to us which we savour and enjoy. We are easy going and quite laid back. We aren't actually older if you look at the average age of Australians. Thing is, age brings stability and wisdom! We've actually quietly forged ahead with a lot of ideas and initiatives and we are becoming less material and more community oriented. We have worked out that big houses and heaps of money were not making us happy and well. We weren't thriving. So we've pulled our heads in and we've started to become more sociable and friendly. We've gone back to our community ways. So we mix, match and share in all sorts of ways. The figures say nothing about quality of life and comfort. We've started to value who we are and the assets we have around us. We've become more nurturing. Measure that. We are appreciating life in the slow lane more and more but when we want to party we can bring down the house.
Bad manners at work bad for business
AdelaideNow... Bad manners at work bad for business: "Dr Griffin said rude colleagues included those who questioned the judgment of others, interrupted when someone was speaking, made derogatory comments or belittled ideas."
That all comes down to strong, clear leadership, in my experience. When you have a boss who is clear about behaviour and manners, who runs a tight ship with a clear direction, the troops are less likely to play up and undermine each other. Leadership is critical in setting tone. Squabbling and rudeness occur when there are discrepancies in policies or the ways in which you are expected to respond. Unfortunately people in Australia are not polite by nature and that's odd. Where the leadership is not clear then there are too many chiefs and not enough Indians and the sorts of behaviours described here come from establishments where no one has stamped clear guidelines for behaviour, policy and job performance. It amounts to everyone having their place , their job and the chain of command being quite clear rather than up for discussion.
That all comes down to strong, clear leadership, in my experience. When you have a boss who is clear about behaviour and manners, who runs a tight ship with a clear direction, the troops are less likely to play up and undermine each other. Leadership is critical in setting tone. Squabbling and rudeness occur when there are discrepancies in policies or the ways in which you are expected to respond. Unfortunately people in Australia are not polite by nature and that's odd. Where the leadership is not clear then there are too many chiefs and not enough Indians and the sorts of behaviours described here come from establishments where no one has stamped clear guidelines for behaviour, policy and job performance. It amounts to everyone having their place , their job and the chain of command being quite clear rather than up for discussion.
9yo alleged car thief 'flouting the law'
9yo alleged car thief 'flouting the law' : "'When he was arrested on the June 16, he was croming at the time, smoking cigarettes, he had a bottle of bourbon with him, and he just told the police you can arrest me but you can't charge me because I'm under the age of 10."
Yes, yes he is flouting the law. But he is flouting life too. He is 9 years old addicted to drugs, alcohol,crime. He doesn't have a life and his life will probably be very short. Who are his parents and where are they? Who is his family? Who cares about him? He has all these massive problems and no, he doesn't care because he is right there on the edge and his is behaving in a very destructive manner. He is destroying himself and others. He is not living. No surviving. He is trying to destroy. He can't nurture because clearly, he hasn't been nurtured. He has no choices. No alternatives because he doesn't know where to find them. If he's a tough little cookie it's because he has to survive. So, he needs all the help he can get. He needs to be taken away and reprogrammed. Taught about the things other 9 year olds know about, but he has lost his innocence. Punishment will make him harder and he can already run rings around everyone including his "mates". He needs to be stopped and I guess cognitive restructuring and a lot of patience and care are on the cards.
Yes, yes he is flouting the law. But he is flouting life too. He is 9 years old addicted to drugs, alcohol,crime. He doesn't have a life and his life will probably be very short. Who are his parents and where are they? Who is his family? Who cares about him? He has all these massive problems and no, he doesn't care because he is right there on the edge and his is behaving in a very destructive manner. He is destroying himself and others. He is not living. No surviving. He is trying to destroy. He can't nurture because clearly, he hasn't been nurtured. He has no choices. No alternatives because he doesn't know where to find them. If he's a tough little cookie it's because he has to survive. So, he needs all the help he can get. He needs to be taken away and reprogrammed. Taught about the things other 9 year olds know about, but he has lost his innocence. Punishment will make him harder and he can already run rings around everyone including his "mates". He needs to be stopped and I guess cognitive restructuring and a lot of patience and care are on the cards.
Wednesday, June 27, 2007
Crackdown on dodgy drivers
AdelaideNow... Crackdown on dodgy drivers: "'We are increasing our focus and lowering our tolerance in relation to poor driving behaviour and requiring our police to take action in every incidence where they see poor driving behaviour, which increase the risk to road users,' he said."
To be honest, I don't think the police have to do anything except drive around! In my experience they just have to be there. As soon as we see police behind us...that's the trick, they have to stay behind us, even the most perfect driver becomes doubly perfect and some break out into a sweat incase they inadvertently do something dumb. The site of a good old police car makes everyone behave and the traffic noticeably slows down. Most drivers here are good and they have become better, but we still have daft people who are suffering from the centre of the universe syndrome I need to pull out now, so okay, I'm pulling out in front of you. The best one lately was the person who decided to back up and made 20 cars back up...in mid traffic because they wanted to turn into a shopping centre. The rest of us would have driven around the block. Ah well. We can't all be important.
To be honest, I don't think the police have to do anything except drive around! In my experience they just have to be there. As soon as we see police behind us...that's the trick, they have to stay behind us, even the most perfect driver becomes doubly perfect and some break out into a sweat incase they inadvertently do something dumb. The site of a good old police car makes everyone behave and the traffic noticeably slows down. Most drivers here are good and they have become better, but we still have daft people who are suffering from the centre of the universe syndrome I need to pull out now, so okay, I'm pulling out in front of you. The best one lately was the person who decided to back up and made 20 cars back up...in mid traffic because they wanted to turn into a shopping centre. The rest of us would have driven around the block. Ah well. We can't all be important.
Elderly no longer pine for the fiords
Elderly no longer pine for the fiords : "All the Norwegians have to do is get the approval of their doctors, fill in a few forms and they are eligible for stays from six weeks to a lifetime near Benidorm, at the expense of Norwegian taxpayers."
Makes sense but it does sound odd. If warm climates suit the elderly better and if it is cheaper to provide the level of care to Norwegians in Spain then why not? It means everyone is happy physically,mentally and fiscally. We could do it here because we have such different climates around Australia. Why wouldn't you create custom environments for people with particular needs no matter where that was ,and for those who are restricted physically, then the personnel employed can be from their country and all's well with the world.
Makes sense but it does sound odd. If warm climates suit the elderly better and if it is cheaper to provide the level of care to Norwegians in Spain then why not? It means everyone is happy physically,mentally and fiscally. We could do it here because we have such different climates around Australia. Why wouldn't you create custom environments for people with particular needs no matter where that was ,and for those who are restricted physically, then the personnel employed can be from their country and all's well with the world.
Two-tiered net could be coming
Two-tiered net could be coming: "'Whether they are doing deals with websites or hindering potentially competitive services, they have to be absolutely clear. Consumers need to know that they have access to everything or not so they can make a fair decision about which service to use,' said Mr Fogg."
I wonder. Money. Money. Money. It always comes down to that. It's surprising we cannot actually change it to suit society rather than business. So who and what are the bandwidth hogs? Who has done anything about the dead sites using up space? Who is going to? When are we actually going to clean up our web? In my opinion I'd be happy to see gaming shifted onto its own tier and porn sites too. I'd be more than happy to see us stratify in a way which suits us and I'd be more than happy for us to be consulted since we are the users , we are paying and we embraced this. It's a success because of the development hours we put in. Funny how that then all gets changed into making money for someone else. The providers do have to be acknowledged and encouraged. They have done the hard yards too. The Net is a double edged sword at the moment. There are things which attract us and will continue to attract us but there have been some restrictive changes and even destruction of things we liked. The Net is us. We all need a say and that has been one of the key features of the web which is so impressive.
I wonder. Money. Money. Money. It always comes down to that. It's surprising we cannot actually change it to suit society rather than business. So who and what are the bandwidth hogs? Who has done anything about the dead sites using up space? Who is going to? When are we actually going to clean up our web? In my opinion I'd be happy to see gaming shifted onto its own tier and porn sites too. I'd be more than happy to see us stratify in a way which suits us and I'd be more than happy for us to be consulted since we are the users , we are paying and we embraced this. It's a success because of the development hours we put in. Funny how that then all gets changed into making money for someone else. The providers do have to be acknowledged and encouraged. They have done the hard yards too. The Net is a double edged sword at the moment. There are things which attract us and will continue to attract us but there have been some restrictive changes and even destruction of things we liked. The Net is us. We all need a say and that has been one of the key features of the web which is so impressive.
Distress and anxiety are bad for the brain
Distress and anxiety are bad for the brain : "During up to 12 years of follow-up, 482 people (38 per cent) developed 'mild cognitive impairment'' - the stage in between normal ageing and dementia."
Now those who are distressed and anxious have something else to be distressed and anxious about! I know it's good to be informed but I think we are seriously going to have to consider the delivery of information. We have become more distressed and worried ...and it has to relate to the amount of information wish surrounds us constantly. That's what has changed in our daily living. Sometimes ignorance is bliss!
Now those who are distressed and anxious have something else to be distressed and anxious about! I know it's good to be informed but I think we are seriously going to have to consider the delivery of information. We have become more distressed and worried ...and it has to relate to the amount of information wish surrounds us constantly. That's what has changed in our daily living. Sometimes ignorance is bliss!
Tuesday, June 26, 2007
Job website's data bungle
Job website's data bungle : "The details include comments about clients made by CareerOne account executives, some of which are highly unflattering. In one case, a client is referred to as a 'retard' and in another a client is called a 'lazy good for nothing'."
Well, thank you for sharing that with us. Now we know. Blows their street cred a bit, heh? How long are we going to kid ourselves that sites are secure? There have been enough bungles for us to know this is simply not the case. So when are we going to get secure sites? Or is that not possible with computers? Is the truth out now? So how much of our private information is now public and who conned us and why, what are we going to do about it and do we care?
Well, thank you for sharing that with us. Now we know. Blows their street cred a bit, heh? How long are we going to kid ourselves that sites are secure? There have been enough bungles for us to know this is simply not the case. So when are we going to get secure sites? Or is that not possible with computers? Is the truth out now? So how much of our private information is now public and who conned us and why, what are we going to do about it and do we care?
It's our hurricane Katrina, says emotion-charged PM
It's our hurricane Katrina, says emotion-charged PM :
"While criticising the plan, the letter does acknowledge the need for immediate action.
One of the letter's signatories, Anglicare Australia chief executive Ray Cleary, questioned why it had taken so long for the Government 'to recognise something that the wisdom and experience of agencies like ours have been saying for 20 years'."
When John Howard decides to act, he acts. That is both his strength and his weakness. He can carry through sweeping change and if half of what he has said in this is true then, clearly, he believes very strongly in the right of his action. That promotes the power to change but it also promotes chaos and fear and that has happened more than once in his stint as Prime Minister.
"We can debate root causes until the cows come home," he said, insisting it would have been easier to make timid declarations aspiring to equality and striving for a cherished consensus."(But) without urgent action to restore social order, the nightmare will go on — more grog, more violence, more pornography and more sexual abuse — as the generation we're supposed to save sinks further into the abyss," he said.
Strong beliefs can bring about great change but sound judgement ensures the change is good. Enough people are saying...wait, wait, listen, listen, that Mr. Howard needs to take wise counsel. He needs to listen to his people and his advisers. He needs to listen most to those who are there and who ought to know better than anyone. He also needs to realise that Aboriginal people have been singled out before for "improvement" and we still haven't said sorry about that particular helpful hand. The emotion needs to come out of it and a sound, solid plan put in place. The buffer zone needs to be created. I haven't noticed we have made any of these sweeping changes to the homes of white children who are equally desperately in need , so get it very clear we are not treating Aborigines in the same way as we are treating whites. When you do that, you are splitting the community. I haven't heard anyone question the need to put a stop to it. Now. This minute. I haven't heard anyone saying that white children are in more abject circumstances in our own country. But we are one people so let's act as one people and use the policies and requirements which apply to us all. We are not allowed to abuse and neglect our children. We are not allowed to be violent. We need people to interpret and explain this properly and fully. We need people to support the very people who are already terrified being terrified more. This will change their social structure, their family structure and their daily lives. We need to talk to those people so we get it right. If Mr. Howard thinks it's our Katrina , the rest of us are worried it'll be our Iraq. Now, slow down, take a deep breath and go about this in the sensible, organised way our emergency task forces go about any crisis management. That is something we do well.
"While criticising the plan, the letter does acknowledge the need for immediate action.
One of the letter's signatories, Anglicare Australia chief executive Ray Cleary, questioned why it had taken so long for the Government 'to recognise something that the wisdom and experience of agencies like ours have been saying for 20 years'."
When John Howard decides to act, he acts. That is both his strength and his weakness. He can carry through sweeping change and if half of what he has said in this is true then, clearly, he believes very strongly in the right of his action. That promotes the power to change but it also promotes chaos and fear and that has happened more than once in his stint as Prime Minister.
"We can debate root causes until the cows come home," he said, insisting it would have been easier to make timid declarations aspiring to equality and striving for a cherished consensus."(But) without urgent action to restore social order, the nightmare will go on — more grog, more violence, more pornography and more sexual abuse — as the generation we're supposed to save sinks further into the abyss," he said.
Strong beliefs can bring about great change but sound judgement ensures the change is good. Enough people are saying...wait, wait, listen, listen, that Mr. Howard needs to take wise counsel. He needs to listen to his people and his advisers. He needs to listen most to those who are there and who ought to know better than anyone. He also needs to realise that Aboriginal people have been singled out before for "improvement" and we still haven't said sorry about that particular helpful hand. The emotion needs to come out of it and a sound, solid plan put in place. The buffer zone needs to be created. I haven't noticed we have made any of these sweeping changes to the homes of white children who are equally desperately in need , so get it very clear we are not treating Aborigines in the same way as we are treating whites. When you do that, you are splitting the community. I haven't heard anyone question the need to put a stop to it. Now. This minute. I haven't heard anyone saying that white children are in more abject circumstances in our own country. But we are one people so let's act as one people and use the policies and requirements which apply to us all. We are not allowed to abuse and neglect our children. We are not allowed to be violent. We need people to interpret and explain this properly and fully. We need people to support the very people who are already terrified being terrified more. This will change their social structure, their family structure and their daily lives. We need to talk to those people so we get it right. If Mr. Howard thinks it's our Katrina , the rest of us are worried it'll be our Iraq. Now, slow down, take a deep breath and go about this in the sensible, organised way our emergency task forces go about any crisis management. That is something we do well.
Campaign's human face
AdelaideNow... Campaign's human face: "NEARLY 1000 Pembroke School students today created a 'human sign' to promote the Make Poverty History campaign."
I am proud of them. They are our future. They have shown they care about an equitable world.
I am proud of them. They are our future. They have shown they care about an equitable world.
Paris Hilton walks free from jail
AdelaideNow... Paris Hilton walks free from jail: "PARIS Hilton has walked smiling out of a Los Angeles County jail after serving 22 days of her 45-day sentence for violating probation."
Game, set and match to status and money. Thank you linesmen. Thank you ball boys.
Game, set and match to status and money. Thank you linesmen. Thank you ball boys.
Monday, June 25, 2007
Teachers being secretly filmed by students
AdelaideNow... Teachers being secretly filmed by students: "Mr Lipscombe said principals had installed surveillance cameras in some classrooms for security purposes, causing further alarm over teachers' privacy."
Reality TV from schools? Haven't we had enough of reality TV? It's it time to move on? Let's just put everything on YouTube.MySpace, shall we? Everything. Just everything. Why stop at teachers? We can film everyone doing everything it's all so bloomin' fascinating.
Reality TV from schools? Haven't we had enough of reality TV? It's it time to move on? Let's just put everything on YouTube.MySpace, shall we? Everything. Just everything. Why stop at teachers? We can film everyone doing everything it's all so bloomin' fascinating.
Herbal link to liver failure
AdelaideNow... Herbal link to liver failure: "The Therapeutic Goods Administration last year ruled there was 'sufficient evidence of a causal association between black cohosh and serious hepatitis'."
Trying to manage the symptoms of menopause herbally and ending up with a liver transplant? This is serious! If you are using black cohosh, get a liver check!
Trying to manage the symptoms of menopause herbally and ending up with a liver transplant? This is serious! If you are using black cohosh, get a liver check!
Balls are back, nicely polished
AdelaideNow... Balls are back, nicely polished: "The Malls Balls have returned - two months and $23,000 later - giving back to Adelaide its favourite meeting place."
And don't they look so shiny?? The Mall has been an odd place without them. True, people meet there as they do at Haigh's on the corner, but the kids especially are mesmerised by the balls and just run up to them and cuddle them or look into them. The kids are probably going to be the happiest of all and thank heavens they are back in time for the school holidays in a couple of weeks!
And don't they look so shiny?? The Mall has been an odd place without them. True, people meet there as they do at Haigh's on the corner, but the kids especially are mesmerised by the balls and just run up to them and cuddle them or look into them. The kids are probably going to be the happiest of all and thank heavens they are back in time for the school holidays in a couple of weeks!
Aussies in love with plastic money
AdelaideNow... Aussies in love with plastic money: "Australians were also heavy credit card users, pulling out the plastic an average of 5.4 times a week."
If we are using credit cards it's because we were encouraged to do so. There was a big push to get us away from cash and onto plastic. In certain respects it's safer for the community and shops and that was the reason behind the push. If we now depend on them it's because there was no support for cash and we have learned well. It's the paying off the card each month which is critical and the not living beyond our means. So who takes responsibility for that? The card holder, but when you see that the capacity to own a card is not restricted then you start to understand how it all falls apart. We are caught up in this profiteering economy. Shareholders and profit. An economy has to be about people and people need to be shown how to responsibly manage their expenses. No one does a lot about that. They just put fees on everything.
If we are using credit cards it's because we were encouraged to do so. There was a big push to get us away from cash and onto plastic. In certain respects it's safer for the community and shops and that was the reason behind the push. If we now depend on them it's because there was no support for cash and we have learned well. It's the paying off the card each month which is critical and the not living beyond our means. So who takes responsibility for that? The card holder, but when you see that the capacity to own a card is not restricted then you start to understand how it all falls apart. We are caught up in this profiteering economy. Shareholders and profit. An economy has to be about people and people need to be shown how to responsibly manage their expenses. No one does a lot about that. They just put fees on everything.
Sunday, June 24, 2007
5km wheel rim chase
AdelaideNow... 5km wheel rim chase: "Sparks flew as the vehicle travelled from Lonsdale Rd, Lonsdale, to The Esplanade, Christies Beach, after it was driven through the police spike roadblock."
Kids seem to have fun when they thieve cars. They take someone else's car and just trash it. Going from Lonsdale to the Esplanade on rims is quite a run so the locals must have had fun listening to that lot. It was on the news along with another similar incident and all I can say it the police have a mountain of patience and were trying to keep the dazed and confused drivers warm. It has been freeeeeeezzzzzing while these kids have been amusing themselves at our expense and using up police time, but the police were inordinately patient and were trying to put blankets on the freezing kids before they did anything else.So, how do we get through to kids that what is ours is ours? If they want to be thrill seekers they need to do it differently.
Kids seem to have fun when they thieve cars. They take someone else's car and just trash it. Going from Lonsdale to the Esplanade on rims is quite a run so the locals must have had fun listening to that lot. It was on the news along with another similar incident and all I can say it the police have a mountain of patience and were trying to keep the dazed and confused drivers warm. It has been freeeeeeezzzzzing while these kids have been amusing themselves at our expense and using up police time, but the police were inordinately patient and were trying to put blankets on the freezing kids before they did anything else.So, how do we get through to kids that what is ours is ours? If they want to be thrill seekers they need to do it differently.
Pole dance ad 'fits family values'
AdelaideNow... Pole dance ad 'fits family values': "The decision by the Advertising Standards Bureau to dismiss 200 public complaints about the Nando's restaurant chain's TV and cinema advertisements has left critics shocked and confused."
I bet. What a lot of tosh. I can just see every kid and husband loving their mum and wife aspiring to be a pole dancer...and good on her, but don't pretend it's our mainstream family way of life...like the place that awarded vouchers to a brothel as a prize. Seriously, let's stop kidding ourselves. Pole dancing and brothels are not mainstream family living in Australia and it's ridiculous to believe otherwise. But we know the truth. We get what we are prepared to accept.
I bet. What a lot of tosh. I can just see every kid and husband loving their mum and wife aspiring to be a pole dancer...and good on her, but don't pretend it's our mainstream family way of life...like the place that awarded vouchers to a brothel as a prize. Seriously, let's stop kidding ourselves. Pole dancing and brothels are not mainstream family living in Australia and it's ridiculous to believe otherwise. But we know the truth. We get what we are prepared to accept.
Down to a crawl
AdelaideNow... Down to a crawl: "Latest Transport Department figures show vehicle registrations in SA have soared by 320,000 in six years to 1.476 million to the end of April 2007, an increase of 27 per cent."
Some parts of Adelaide may be crawling, but we are lucky in that we have some very serviceable back streets. If I go to town I can make use of those if I want to. Coming from the South it has not been noticeably busier. If you want people to use public transport then it needs to be there and it needs to be on time and it needs to stop breaking down. In the last fortnight people have been left at bus stops, even the terminus stop, even if they are the only passenger. The trains have been disrupted for all sorts of good reasons. The buses have been too early or late so that people have missed connecting buses or trains and the revamp of Adelaide's bus times and routes has benefited some but disadvantaged a lot. Then, there is the age of our population. We keep being told we are an aging population so presumably more people are of driving age and families are obviously sufficiently funded to afford all these numerous cars. I think you have to look at everything...and the erratic public transport system ought to come as a top priority of you don't want people in cars. Other countries and states can seem to get you places, but Adelaide public transport users are being inconvenienced and then embarrassed if it comes to work. It's not for most of them, but enough to put them back in their cars I should imagine.
Some parts of Adelaide may be crawling, but we are lucky in that we have some very serviceable back streets. If I go to town I can make use of those if I want to. Coming from the South it has not been noticeably busier. If you want people to use public transport then it needs to be there and it needs to be on time and it needs to stop breaking down. In the last fortnight people have been left at bus stops, even the terminus stop, even if they are the only passenger. The trains have been disrupted for all sorts of good reasons. The buses have been too early or late so that people have missed connecting buses or trains and the revamp of Adelaide's bus times and routes has benefited some but disadvantaged a lot. Then, there is the age of our population. We keep being told we are an aging population so presumably more people are of driving age and families are obviously sufficiently funded to afford all these numerous cars. I think you have to look at everything...and the erratic public transport system ought to come as a top priority of you don't want people in cars. Other countries and states can seem to get you places, but Adelaide public transport users are being inconvenienced and then embarrassed if it comes to work. It's not for most of them, but enough to put them back in their cars I should imagine.
Violence in NSW schools 'out of hand'
Violence in NSW schools 'out of hand' - ABC News (Australian Broadcasting Corporation): "'We've got in place a very costly, very resource-driven, sensible plan to make sure that children and young people that are suspended from school are put back in the mainstream only after they can deal with their fellow teachers and students in a safe way,' he said."
Principals and teachers should remain that. Violence should be dealt with by the police or security guards should be involved. Take teachers and Principals away form their job and education will be neglected as they try and become law enforcers. Besides, surely if these people had wanted to become police they would have done that and not become teachers and Principals? Our schools have to be made safe. If it is out of hand it is for law enforcers to do the job and the message needs to be made mighty clear. Parents don't send their kids to school so they can be subject to the violent behaviours of others. Not good enough. Just not good enough.
Principals and teachers should remain that. Violence should be dealt with by the police or security guards should be involved. Take teachers and Principals away form their job and education will be neglected as they try and become law enforcers. Besides, surely if these people had wanted to become police they would have done that and not become teachers and Principals? Our schools have to be made safe. If it is out of hand it is for law enforcers to do the job and the message needs to be made mighty clear. Parents don't send their kids to school so they can be subject to the violent behaviours of others. Not good enough. Just not good enough.
Saturday, June 23, 2007
Men look at faces first
Men look at faces first : "MEN are more likely to look at a woman's face before other parts of the body when shown naked pictures, according to a study by US researchers."
Only because they'll be done for ogling and harassment if they look anywhere else. Come on, who are we trying to kid?
Only because they'll be done for ogling and harassment if they look anywhere else. Come on, who are we trying to kid?
Rooftop statues spark suicide reports
Rooftop statues spark suicide reports The Australian: "'We had several calls a day in the early stages and are now receiving two or three a day,' a police spokeswoman said."
Do you know, it's really comforting to know that so many people would actually care about someone who might be going to commit suicide. It actually demonstrates London has a very caring community. The worst thing is that people will stop calling because they think it is art.The police will get fed up and stop reacting. It is not art. It's destructive and disruptive to community action , safety and feelings. Art doesn't disengage the connections with community care. It's a serious hazard and someone may well die because Londoners think they are art. That's terrible.If any other obstruction might cause death or injury it would be removed.
Do you know, it's really comforting to know that so many people would actually care about someone who might be going to commit suicide. It actually demonstrates London has a very caring community. The worst thing is that people will stop calling because they think it is art.The police will get fed up and stop reacting. It is not art. It's destructive and disruptive to community action , safety and feelings. Art doesn't disengage the connections with community care. It's a serious hazard and someone may well die because Londoners think they are art. That's terrible.If any other obstruction might cause death or injury it would be removed.
Space shuttle lands in California
Space shuttle lands in California : "THE US space shuttle Atlantis has touched down in California's Mojave Desert after rain and thick clouds prevented it from returning to its home port in Florida."
Thank heavens for that. I have been having a pink fit hearing they have been stuck up there waiting to come down because of bad weather. 'Bout time we had a shuttle that can just land. I mean it goes out into space, the astonauts/cosmonauts do all this death defying repair work and engineering in space. They fly it all the way back and it can't be landed because of weather!! Weather! Clouds and rain. We can drive our cars in clouds and rain. What is it with this Shuttle? We need a weatherproof shuttle. Oh thank heavens they are on land again.
Thank heavens for that. I have been having a pink fit hearing they have been stuck up there waiting to come down because of bad weather. 'Bout time we had a shuttle that can just land. I mean it goes out into space, the astonauts/cosmonauts do all this death defying repair work and engineering in space. They fly it all the way back and it can't be landed because of weather!! Weather! Clouds and rain. We can drive our cars in clouds and rain. What is it with this Shuttle? We need a weatherproof shuttle. Oh thank heavens they are on land again.
Thieves steal car, can't drive it
Thieves steal car, can't drive it : "'The kid was just sitting in the car trying to start it but he had no idea what to do. He looked dumbfounded. The only thing he had going was the radio,' said Mr Williamson who witnessed the scene."
Love it ! Love it! Love it! Hilarious and I bet the owner and the police are having a really good laugh. Nice for thieves to be paid back like that. No fool like a young fool. Now back in my day, we were taught to drive both manual and automatic cars. My personal preference is manual. I don't think you are driving when it's an automatic!
Love it ! Love it! Love it! Hilarious and I bet the owner and the police are having a really good laugh. Nice for thieves to be paid back like that. No fool like a young fool. Now back in my day, we were taught to drive both manual and automatic cars. My personal preference is manual. I don't think you are driving when it's an automatic!
Friday, June 22, 2007
Scientists recreate 9/11 disaster
Scientists recreate 9/11 disaster : "The findings of the Purdue study on why the towers came down differ slightly from a US
government report done in 2005."
No surprises there. There is never any way of getting proper information these days because the information is contradictory all the time. Creates a lot of confusion. There is plenty of information on the Net, though, and sifting through it paints a picture of something. Quite what isn't necessarily clear. Safe to say that virtual reality isn't reality. Might be helpful, might not be, but it is only virtual reality. The truth is out there. The truth is always the truth. People know when it's the truth. Their minds are at peace and they stop hunting for answers and trying to replicate the events.
government report done in 2005."
No surprises there. There is never any way of getting proper information these days because the information is contradictory all the time. Creates a lot of confusion. There is plenty of information on the Net, though, and sifting through it paints a picture of something. Quite what isn't necessarily clear. Safe to say that virtual reality isn't reality. Might be helpful, might not be, but it is only virtual reality. The truth is out there. The truth is always the truth. People know when it's the truth. Their minds are at peace and they stop hunting for answers and trying to replicate the events.
Folate to be added to bread
AdelaideNow... Folate to be added to bread: "The Australian Food and Grocery Council said the health problems required a public health solution, not medication of the food supply."
Absolutely. It's about teaching people about nutrition. It's about highlighting problems and then getting information and remedies out to the general public. Folic acid can be sourced in a proper diet.Green leafy vegetables,milk,egg yolk, dry beans and peas, many other types of vegetables and fruits(oranges and orange juice...now, they are really hard to come by!)and beer are good sources of folate. It's no use giving people virtual reality. It deprives them of the real knowledge they need to manage their lives. Organic bread won't have folic acid added to it. It is so silly we cannot feed ourselves properly.
Absolutely. It's about teaching people about nutrition. It's about highlighting problems and then getting information and remedies out to the general public. Folic acid can be sourced in a proper diet.Green leafy vegetables,milk,egg yolk, dry beans and peas, many other types of vegetables and fruits(oranges and orange juice...now, they are really hard to come by!)and beer are good sources of folate. It's no use giving people virtual reality. It deprives them of the real knowledge they need to manage their lives. Organic bread won't have folic acid added to it. It is so silly we cannot feed ourselves properly.
Boy and mum carjacked at shopping centre
AdelaideNow... Boy and mum carjacked at shopping centre: "A witness followed the vehicle while contacting police on a mobile phone, police said."
Now we are starting to think. The Mum must have been beside herself and would have been so vulnerable because she had her little boy with her. That was so opportunistic and nasty. The witness, however, showed some good sense. They didn't put themselves at risk, but they did what they could to get the right information to the police. What a great sense of community spirit.
Now we are starting to think. The Mum must have been beside herself and would have been so vulnerable because she had her little boy with her. That was so opportunistic and nasty. The witness, however, showed some good sense. They didn't put themselves at risk, but they did what they could to get the right information to the police. What a great sense of community spirit.
Future of Glenside site questioned
Future of Glenside site questioned : "The South Australian Government has declined to rule out selling all or part of the Glenside hospital site in Adelaide's south-eastern suburbs."
Glenside has been allowed to run down. It is not a welcoming environment, but the gardens are beautiful. The staff there cope so well given the conditions. As a hospital it would need a revamp and complete modernisation to come up to scratch and to become a 2007 facility for the mentally ill. It is on prime land. Really prime land. What do you think? They'll sell it and put the mentally ill and their carers elsewhere.
Glenside has been allowed to run down. It is not a welcoming environment, but the gardens are beautiful. The staff there cope so well given the conditions. As a hospital it would need a revamp and complete modernisation to come up to scratch and to become a 2007 facility for the mentally ill. It is on prime land. Really prime land. What do you think? They'll sell it and put the mentally ill and their carers elsewhere.
Thursday, June 21, 2007
Breath test leads to huge ice seizure
Breath test leads to huge ice seizure : "A man has been busted with over $200,000 worth of the amphetamine ice and numerous satchels of viagra gel during a routine breath test in the state's west, police say."
Ice AND viagra?? The mind boggles. The police were obviously on the ball.
Ice AND viagra?? The mind boggles. The police were obviously on the ball.
Pupils' £2.4bn bill in revenge on teacher
Scotsman.com Pupils' £2.4bn bill in revenge on teacher: "The pair ordered the items under the name of their least favourite teacher and gave the school's address."
As I said, there don't seem to be any boundaries in the heads of kids. Even the German police are wondering why two students would exact such an outrageous revenge over bad grades. Major hissy fits. They are probably quite nice kids with a good track record. They probably do nice things most of the time and come from homes where they have been cared for. Parents, teachers and the police do not seem to be able to influence young kids at all. They are waterproof to common sense. They are oblivious to normal, social behaviour under some circumstances. The kids just wanted to get the teacher back. That's what they said. But , the thing is, kids seem to think they can do as they please to get their form of justice and the price others pay is of no relevance to them. It's about what they wanted to do. Then they think having said that it can all be forgotten and they can carry on...till next time they are disgruntled. It really is bizarre thinking and it really is important for us to understand what it is that develops the moral values of these kids because they are dangerous.
As I said, there don't seem to be any boundaries in the heads of kids. Even the German police are wondering why two students would exact such an outrageous revenge over bad grades. Major hissy fits. They are probably quite nice kids with a good track record. They probably do nice things most of the time and come from homes where they have been cared for. Parents, teachers and the police do not seem to be able to influence young kids at all. They are waterproof to common sense. They are oblivious to normal, social behaviour under some circumstances. The kids just wanted to get the teacher back. That's what they said. But , the thing is, kids seem to think they can do as they please to get their form of justice and the price others pay is of no relevance to them. It's about what they wanted to do. Then they think having said that it can all be forgotten and they can carry on...till next time they are disgruntled. It really is bizarre thinking and it really is important for us to understand what it is that develops the moral values of these kids because they are dangerous.
'Don't let others die'
AdelaideNow... 'Don't let others die': "'Our judicial system and those in charge of it must realise these repeat offenders cannot be left on the streets.
'If they are, this accident will happen again and it will be someone else who is killed."
This is the frustration of the adults talking. We have kids who can go along okay and then they seem to completely lose their senses and the consequences are so severe. In this accident a young girl was killed. Kids seem to get together and make their own rules. The trouble is they can be really nice kids for a while ,it seems, and then it all falls apart, so then they become dangerous and the parents and the community have to try and get some sense back into it. Parental, school and police influence do not seem to be sufficient for the modern child. They are obviously subject to stronger influences which unhinge their logic and reason. These things need to be more clearly identified because the Dad is right. As awful as it sounds, they do not seem to be able to learn and so we have to keep them locked up to keep everyone safe. Social boundaries are not set firmly in our children. Why is that?
'If they are, this accident will happen again and it will be someone else who is killed."
This is the frustration of the adults talking. We have kids who can go along okay and then they seem to completely lose their senses and the consequences are so severe. In this accident a young girl was killed. Kids seem to get together and make their own rules. The trouble is they can be really nice kids for a while ,it seems, and then it all falls apart, so then they become dangerous and the parents and the community have to try and get some sense back into it. Parental, school and police influence do not seem to be sufficient for the modern child. They are obviously subject to stronger influences which unhinge their logic and reason. These things need to be more clearly identified because the Dad is right. As awful as it sounds, they do not seem to be able to learn and so we have to keep them locked up to keep everyone safe. Social boundaries are not set firmly in our children. Why is that?
Coping with trauma
Coping with trauma : "They may have trouble sleeping, get tired easily, have trouble concentrating, and experience nightmares, flashbacks and feelings of 'reliving' the experience, which happen without warning."
It's good to see an article like this because it's the first step in helping us help ourselves and each other. Most people in the world are being traumatised in one way or another. Our world has recently become extremely disconcerting and very traumatic. People switching off from headlines are not immune. They are trying to cope. A lot of people have had to stop listening to the news, watching the news and buying newspapers. It has been too disturbing for them and their families. Many people are turning back to people contacts and relationships to help themselves manage. We are also finding we are spending a significant amount of time trying to help each other manage trauma. It's true. It is happening to so many and we have to change the way we are living in the world and we have to change the reporting which constantly comes into our lives because it is making us lose hope and making us think that the world has gone mad. We are all of great support to each other and we are starting to get to the bottom of why everything seems to be so disastrous in recent years. We've had so much and some countries are having more than their fair and reasonable share. This article starts to gently scratch the surface for us and it has done it in a good way because it is telling us what to do, what to look for a getting us to start thinking how we can manage better. It is in our hands.
It's good to see an article like this because it's the first step in helping us help ourselves and each other. Most people in the world are being traumatised in one way or another. Our world has recently become extremely disconcerting and very traumatic. People switching off from headlines are not immune. They are trying to cope. A lot of people have had to stop listening to the news, watching the news and buying newspapers. It has been too disturbing for them and their families. Many people are turning back to people contacts and relationships to help themselves manage. We are also finding we are spending a significant amount of time trying to help each other manage trauma. It's true. It is happening to so many and we have to change the way we are living in the world and we have to change the reporting which constantly comes into our lives because it is making us lose hope and making us think that the world has gone mad. We are all of great support to each other and we are starting to get to the bottom of why everything seems to be so disastrous in recent years. We've had so much and some countries are having more than their fair and reasonable share. This article starts to gently scratch the surface for us and it has done it in a good way because it is telling us what to do, what to look for a getting us to start thinking how we can manage better. It is in our hands.
Wednesday, June 20, 2007
9 firefighters die in blaze at furniture warehouse
9 firefighters die in blaze at furniture warehouse: "'But what we know is that nine brave, heroic, courageous firefighters of the city of Charleston have perished fighting fire in a most courageous and fearless manner,' he told a news conference with the ruins of the warehouse-store smouldering behind him."
I hate stories like this. Firefighters the world over are doing their darnedest to save life and limb. For all our capacity to develop international space stations, shuttles, nuclear weapons, A380 planes we still cannot come up with an outfit which will preserve the lives of firefighters. They are so courageous. They constantly put their lives on the line. We need an outfit they can wear so they can continue to be our heroes and have a life.
I hate stories like this. Firefighters the world over are doing their darnedest to save life and limb. For all our capacity to develop international space stations, shuttles, nuclear weapons, A380 planes we still cannot come up with an outfit which will preserve the lives of firefighters. They are so courageous. They constantly put their lives on the line. We need an outfit they can wear so they can continue to be our heroes and have a life.
Garden gnomes hid smuggled snakes
Garden gnomes hid smuggled snakes: "The snakes, destined for two addresses in Sydney, were found when the parcels were opened by customs officials."
Snakes and lizards? Smuggling them in?? We have heaps. Plenty. Lots. We don't need any more. Many of our snakes are venomous. Smuggling wildlife is cruel. A lot do not survive the trip. A lot find themselves in climates and conditions they cannot tolerate and a lot find themselves mistreated by people who do not know how to look after them. I am impressed our customs officials found them. We do not need snakes and lizards. Can't believe it!! Doesn't say what sort of snakes and lizards.
Snakes and lizards? Smuggling them in?? We have heaps. Plenty. Lots. We don't need any more. Many of our snakes are venomous. Smuggling wildlife is cruel. A lot do not survive the trip. A lot find themselves in climates and conditions they cannot tolerate and a lot find themselves mistreated by people who do not know how to look after them. I am impressed our customs officials found them. We do not need snakes and lizards. Can't believe it!! Doesn't say what sort of snakes and lizards.
Half of Britons 'e-mail addicts'
Half of Britons 'e-mail addicts': "Half of Britons could not exist without e-mail - with 30 or 40-somethings more addicted than teens, a survey finds."
How can something which is a part of normal daily living be called an addiction? Emails are now part of our lives. Am I also addicted to my microwave? My hair brush? My pen? My car? New things come into our way of living. It's called change. We use computers, DVD players, email services and phones. It's how we live now. And no, I cannot live without all these things. I am in 2007. If the British are using email, then they have come up to speed.
How can something which is a part of normal daily living be called an addiction? Emails are now part of our lives. Am I also addicted to my microwave? My hair brush? My pen? My car? New things come into our way of living. It's called change. We use computers, DVD players, email services and phones. It's how we live now. And no, I cannot live without all these things. I am in 2007. If the British are using email, then they have come up to speed.
Police say ATM scam used new approach
Police say ATM scam used new approach : "'It is a methodology that hasn't been encountered elsewhere in Australia before. It is a methodology that required considerable research by him.'"
It's also an approach which was so new and sophisticated it got him picked up by the police. The bank and police are right up there. Well done.
It's also an approach which was so new and sophisticated it got him picked up by the police. The bank and police are right up there. Well done.
Tuesday, June 19, 2007
Call for traffic light food health labels
Call for traffic light food health labels : "'Six months ago this idea was considered radical, however detailed analysis of public understanding in Britain has shown it is the most promising single measure for informing the public about the quality of their diet and a potentially potent weapon in the fight against obesity,' Prof James said."
Radical??? Sounds really sensible to me. Sometimes you cannot read the labels unless you have your glasses!! It also makes sense because it is something we could adopt internationally and I do think international food labels are in order like a lot of our tourism symbols are international. It would make life and travelling so much easier . It also means that labels are easily read at a glance. I still stand there like a lot of other people and read the back of things and it has become a topic of conversation in the aisles. We often exchange information about additives and ingredients. We are getting quite good at it now! We even recommend foods to each other, so the traffic food signs would be lovely and a good way to help kids learn the value of packaged food.
Radical??? Sounds really sensible to me. Sometimes you cannot read the labels unless you have your glasses!! It also makes sense because it is something we could adopt internationally and I do think international food labels are in order like a lot of our tourism symbols are international. It would make life and travelling so much easier . It also means that labels are easily read at a glance. I still stand there like a lot of other people and read the back of things and it has become a topic of conversation in the aisles. We often exchange information about additives and ingredients. We are getting quite good at it now! We even recommend foods to each other, so the traffic food signs would be lovely and a good way to help kids learn the value of packaged food.
Child food allergies up 12-fold in 10 years
Child food allergies up 12-fold in 10 years : "'For parents, you will see a kid who looks normal one minute and the next minute has swollen up like a puffer fish, and the parents are scared out of their wits,' he said."
It is scary. It is always worse when you see a young child suffering. Okay, so we have collected the evidence. We now know there are more cases of food anaphylaxis and peanuts, eggs and milk seems to be the main things. We have doctors talking to each other and researchers. So we are painting the picture. Now we have to work out why. It does seem rather odd. It does seem strange that it's common foods. We have always known about seafood allergies, now it seems to be common foods and foods which are the foundation blocks of other foods and products. Okay...so now we need to start analyzing!
It is scary. It is always worse when you see a young child suffering. Okay, so we have collected the evidence. We now know there are more cases of food anaphylaxis and peanuts, eggs and milk seems to be the main things. We have doctors talking to each other and researchers. So we are painting the picture. Now we have to work out why. It does seem rather odd. It does seem strange that it's common foods. We have always known about seafood allergies, now it seems to be common foods and foods which are the foundation blocks of other foods and products. Okay...so now we need to start analyzing!
Daylight crime spree
AdelaideNow... Daylight crime spree: "That is, until four teenage girls brandishing swords burst through the doors of their service station and demanded cash."
So should they have been at school?? A long article about our crime sprees in Adelaide and our constant daylight robberies which are most likely drug driven. The things we are totally sick of. The young 19 year old Daniel is a new recruit to our land but he was remarkably quick thinking and flexible in his actions during a time of great duress. A boy who can obviously think very well on his feet and it's a pretty sad state of affairs that this is this family's welcome to Adelaide. What it has taught us is that young Daniel is very law abiding and wants to help stop this nonsense. This time wasting, terrifying nonsense. He has been brave enough to take sensible action. He did what he could by keeping himself safe and letting the police get the information they needed to pursue this further. No use talking about it. Change is action. We do have to do something about this because we are driving around with our car doors locked because people are becoming far too opportunistic.
So should they have been at school?? A long article about our crime sprees in Adelaide and our constant daylight robberies which are most likely drug driven. The things we are totally sick of. The young 19 year old Daniel is a new recruit to our land but he was remarkably quick thinking and flexible in his actions during a time of great duress. A boy who can obviously think very well on his feet and it's a pretty sad state of affairs that this is this family's welcome to Adelaide. What it has taught us is that young Daniel is very law abiding and wants to help stop this nonsense. This time wasting, terrifying nonsense. He has been brave enough to take sensible action. He did what he could by keeping himself safe and letting the police get the information they needed to pursue this further. No use talking about it. Change is action. We do have to do something about this because we are driving around with our car doors locked because people are becoming far too opportunistic.
Craigie joins brains trust
AdelaideNow... Craigie joins brains trust: "His methods involved training players harder to reach peak fitness during the finals series."
He has a lot of emotional intelligence as well as brain power. He is quite a remarkable package, mainly because he is so humble. He is a man of few words. Says little and does lots. He has this winning way and yet you wouldn't think so. He doesn't trumpet his achievements and he has demonstrated his prowess at team building with our cyclists and now the Crows. It's his balance of using older players to mentor younger ones and younger ones to boost older ones. It's all in the mix.He is not frightened to give young players a break, nor does he denigrate experience. He's very intuitive in lots of ways. He never pushes players. He challenges them, he makes tough decisions, but he doesn't push people to a limit where they cannot cope and then break down. Nor will he play anyone who is not fit. He is prepared to bide his time and look at options. That's what I really admire about him. He looks after the human factor and he is willing to allow players to have a chance and thereby become part of a strong team. He always has options.
He has a lot of emotional intelligence as well as brain power. He is quite a remarkable package, mainly because he is so humble. He is a man of few words. Says little and does lots. He has this winning way and yet you wouldn't think so. He doesn't trumpet his achievements and he has demonstrated his prowess at team building with our cyclists and now the Crows. It's his balance of using older players to mentor younger ones and younger ones to boost older ones. It's all in the mix.He is not frightened to give young players a break, nor does he denigrate experience. He's very intuitive in lots of ways. He never pushes players. He challenges them, he makes tough decisions, but he doesn't push people to a limit where they cannot cope and then break down. Nor will he play anyone who is not fit. He is prepared to bide his time and look at options. That's what I really admire about him. He looks after the human factor and he is willing to allow players to have a chance and thereby become part of a strong team. He always has options.
Accused shoplifter rams mall
AdelaideNow... Accused shoplifter rams mall: "A 22-year-old Chisholm woman was charged with property damage, theft and public alarm offences."
Oh dear, what a hissy fit. Is this Gen Y? How old is she???
Oh dear, what a hissy fit. Is this Gen Y? How old is she???
PM accuses Rudd of economic ignorance
PM accuses Rudd of economic ignorance : "He says the Government is simply taking a few pot shots."
And that sadly, is all our political exchange is. Nothing but platitudes, potshots and facile phrasing. I'd love to hear a proper discussion of all our current issues. A proper debate with the pros and cons, the arguments, the FACTS and the evidence to support arguments. Leaked this. Badly handled that. We are worthy of better.
And that sadly, is all our political exchange is. Nothing but platitudes, potshots and facile phrasing. I'd love to hear a proper discussion of all our current issues. A proper debate with the pros and cons, the arguments, the FACTS and the evidence to support arguments. Leaked this. Badly handled that. We are worthy of better.
Monday, June 18, 2007
School attacks on the rise
School attacks on the rise: "'These figures are a reflection on society where violence is increasingly seen as an acceptable way to solve problems,' Ms O'Brien said."
It's odd, isn't it? The more we disapprove of violence, the more we try to counter it, the more we talk about dealing with things differently , the worse it appears to be. Is it worse or do we talk about it more? Is it worse or are we prepared to deal with it more? Is it a good sign the kids are picked up on their bad behaviour and we are starting to work out the homes and parenting are a problem? We aren't hiding anything. We aren't shoving it away. We are identifying and exploring it. I can remember when people knew of kids being abused but unless it went "too far" nothing was said or done. Now we are quite clear about not wanting child abuse and yet we seem to have so much of it. Maybe we have always had a lot but just didn't own it or report it. Maybe we had turned a blind eye. I think most people and families are okay. Most parents are on the right track but we still have the small number of kids and adults who run amok across the lives of others, and yes, they are creating problems for us all...so we think our society is falling apart. I don't have a sense that things are falling apart for most of us. I have a sense that most of us have improved ourselves and our relationships. What I do feel is that the extremes are very extreme and very negative and destructive in their impact and that is the bit which needs to be fixed because we are not sitting comfortably with it.
It's odd, isn't it? The more we disapprove of violence, the more we try to counter it, the more we talk about dealing with things differently , the worse it appears to be. Is it worse or do we talk about it more? Is it worse or are we prepared to deal with it more? Is it a good sign the kids are picked up on their bad behaviour and we are starting to work out the homes and parenting are a problem? We aren't hiding anything. We aren't shoving it away. We are identifying and exploring it. I can remember when people knew of kids being abused but unless it went "too far" nothing was said or done. Now we are quite clear about not wanting child abuse and yet we seem to have so much of it. Maybe we have always had a lot but just didn't own it or report it. Maybe we had turned a blind eye. I think most people and families are okay. Most parents are on the right track but we still have the small number of kids and adults who run amok across the lives of others, and yes, they are creating problems for us all...so we think our society is falling apart. I don't have a sense that things are falling apart for most of us. I have a sense that most of us have improved ourselves and our relationships. What I do feel is that the extremes are very extreme and very negative and destructive in their impact and that is the bit which needs to be fixed because we are not sitting comfortably with it.
Few support nuclear power
Few support nuclear power - poll : "'This survey proves there is overwhelming support for a greenhouse strategy that gives greater prominence to energy efficiency and renewable energy,' institute deputy director Andrew Macintosh said."
We are in a country which can use, and invest in, renewable energy. We don't have that many people . It makes sense to go green on our energy because we can. We have the land, we have a small population, we have sun, wind, hot rocks. I guess each country has to look at its energy needs and how they can best meet them without contributing to excess greenhouse gases. As a country we can refine the delivery of green energy and improve upon the technology for that so that we are able to advise other countries. As a planet we need to work together on developing energy sources which are more rational in the light of the state of the planet. As such different countries can then become the leaders of best practice so the world can draw on global expertise and experience. That makes sense to me. I hope we follow through on it and put our money where our mouth is.
We are in a country which can use, and invest in, renewable energy. We don't have that many people . It makes sense to go green on our energy because we can. We have the land, we have a small population, we have sun, wind, hot rocks. I guess each country has to look at its energy needs and how they can best meet them without contributing to excess greenhouse gases. As a country we can refine the delivery of green energy and improve upon the technology for that so that we are able to advise other countries. As a planet we need to work together on developing energy sources which are more rational in the light of the state of the planet. As such different countries can then become the leaders of best practice so the world can draw on global expertise and experience. That makes sense to me. I hope we follow through on it and put our money where our mouth is.
Damp patches concern for SA Water
Damp patches concern for SA Water : "Earlier this week emergency services, including police and the state emergency service, prepared for an evacuation of homes after two damp patches were discovered on the wall of the 80-year-old dam."
Well, isn't that reassuring to know we have people who are on the ball. If everyone plays as a team player then it won't be so hard to combat our water problems. It's fortunate the patches were picked up so that we can have the dam repaired properly. Eyes and ears, heh?
Well, isn't that reassuring to know we have people who are on the ball. If everyone plays as a team player then it won't be so hard to combat our water problems. It's fortunate the patches were picked up so that we can have the dam repaired properly. Eyes and ears, heh?
Tougher Adelaide water use bans
Tougher Adelaide water use bans might go into August : "From July 1, household sprinklers, hoses and irrigation systems will be banned but watering from buckets and watering cans will still be allowed."
No one is watering. It's too damn cold and wet. Wet. The plants don't need water and pot plants just need a drip or two of the rainwater from tanks. We shouldn't be using Murray water to water our gardens. We've had frost. I did hear in our conversations that some people have neighbours who haven't turned their automatic sprinklers off so they water whether it's raining or not. That's a bit lax and needs to be reeled in, quite how I am not sure...presumably they are set to the watering times we had through summer. We've been too busy huddling around the fire but saving water is on our minds and most of us are very conscious of doing the right thing and the Murray is uppermost in our thoughts. Just give us direction!
No one is watering. It's too damn cold and wet. Wet. The plants don't need water and pot plants just need a drip or two of the rainwater from tanks. We shouldn't be using Murray water to water our gardens. We've had frost. I did hear in our conversations that some people have neighbours who haven't turned their automatic sprinklers off so they water whether it's raining or not. That's a bit lax and needs to be reeled in, quite how I am not sure...presumably they are set to the watering times we had through summer. We've been too busy huddling around the fire but saving water is on our minds and most of us are very conscious of doing the right thing and the Murray is uppermost in our thoughts. Just give us direction!
Sunday, June 17, 2007
Kids may need the strap
Kids may need the strap: "Child protection experts branded Mr Abbott's ideas 'dangerous' and 'draconian', warning that using violence would not teach children that violence was wrong."
I went to school with boys who got the cane. It was horrible. An awful way to treat people. The class was also disciplined by some poor boy being dragged out for some paltry reason and a window pole shoved in his stomach. Ridicule and sarcasm were constant and my classes were a constant fear fest. That taught me to hate school even though I did really well. As for the boys, it taught them how to be oblivious to pain , so when they dished it out they cared not one bit about the level of pain they created for another. Forget about canes and straps. What is wrong with a telling off? I have had some brilliant telling offs in my life. They didn't hurt me . The ones I have heard haven't hurt the person. Carpeting someone and giving them a few home truths wouldn't go astray. Oops, sorry, I forgot. The kids'll be texting their Mummies to get them to come and tell the bad teacher or policeman off. Cut the umbilical cord and stop bubble wrapping kids. Let them stand on their own two feet, stop nannying them and let them learn to make their own decisions. In year One my daughter had a teacher who kept saying "Think for yourself!". Not a bad message. She didn't have to keep asking permission to do things. She was in a safe environment so if she made an unwise decision there was back up.
I went to school with boys who got the cane. It was horrible. An awful way to treat people. The class was also disciplined by some poor boy being dragged out for some paltry reason and a window pole shoved in his stomach. Ridicule and sarcasm were constant and my classes were a constant fear fest. That taught me to hate school even though I did really well. As for the boys, it taught them how to be oblivious to pain , so when they dished it out they cared not one bit about the level of pain they created for another. Forget about canes and straps. What is wrong with a telling off? I have had some brilliant telling offs in my life. They didn't hurt me . The ones I have heard haven't hurt the person. Carpeting someone and giving them a few home truths wouldn't go astray. Oops, sorry, I forgot. The kids'll be texting their Mummies to get them to come and tell the bad teacher or policeman off. Cut the umbilical cord and stop bubble wrapping kids. Let them stand on their own two feet, stop nannying them and let them learn to make their own decisions. In year One my daughter had a teacher who kept saying "Think for yourself!". Not a bad message. She didn't have to keep asking permission to do things. She was in a safe environment so if she made an unwise decision there was back up.
Cooking up millions in hell's kitchens
Cooking up millions in hell's kitchens : "Australians are the heaviest users of amphetamines and ecstasy in the world and criminals, including outlaw motorcycle gangs, are keen to have a slice of the lucrative pie."
It might be making millions for some but it will be draining our economy of millions one way or another. Our young really are on the right track, heh? We've done well. We can be proud of the parenting and childhood care which has allowed our young to be the world's best suckers. Still in a thriving , free enterprise market, who cares as long as it makes money and the kids have had their say? It's a long article but it certainly reads us our horoscope.And we think we don't have to worry about our young , we can let them have a voice and listen to them? We think they have nothing to learn and that at a young age they know it? We'll be listening to them all right. We think we should not have taken control and guided them through growing up and now we have been ignoring it , pretending it will go away. Parents are in for a great ride with kids on speed and employers will not be complaining of boredom. We are such idiots and yes, I am angry because we have been slack. We have not backed schools, police and good parents. We have just let kids run off at the mouth and have their say and do as they please...and film it to put on You Tube. We have taken no control of young drinkers and drug users and we have just shrugged and thought it's okay. Well, those making the millions won't be worrying about the mopping up we have to do.
It might be making millions for some but it will be draining our economy of millions one way or another. Our young really are on the right track, heh? We've done well. We can be proud of the parenting and childhood care which has allowed our young to be the world's best suckers. Still in a thriving , free enterprise market, who cares as long as it makes money and the kids have had their say? It's a long article but it certainly reads us our horoscope.And we think we don't have to worry about our young , we can let them have a voice and listen to them? We think they have nothing to learn and that at a young age they know it? We'll be listening to them all right. We think we should not have taken control and guided them through growing up and now we have been ignoring it , pretending it will go away. Parents are in for a great ride with kids on speed and employers will not be complaining of boredom. We are such idiots and yes, I am angry because we have been slack. We have not backed schools, police and good parents. We have just let kids run off at the mouth and have their say and do as they please...and film it to put on You Tube. We have taken no control of young drinkers and drug users and we have just shrugged and thought it's okay. Well, those making the millions won't be worrying about the mopping up we have to do.
Repairs ease space mission woes
Repairs ease space mission woes: "Russian space officials had said they were considering sending their cargo vessel Progress to the ISS earlier than scheduled to deliver spare parts for the computers if the problems persisted."
You mean it's not repaired? They are stuck up there in the middle of space and it may not be repaired??! It might happen again? Next Shuttle mission they need to take things for the computer irrespective of whether Progress flies up spare parts or not. I can't cope!
You mean it's not repaired? They are stuck up there in the middle of space and it may not be repaired??! It might happen again? Next Shuttle mission they need to take things for the computer irrespective of whether Progress flies up spare parts or not. I can't cope!
Computer crash hits space station
Computer crash hits space station: "Without the Russian oxygen machine running, the space station has a 56-day supply of oxygen left. 'If we are in that position, we have an option to depart,' Mr Suffredini said."
OMG!!! They're stuck up there with computers which won't reboot. I am having kittens down here. Those poor astronauts/cosmonauts. It's bad enough being at home without the chance of rebooting your computer. That is always a total bugga and so serious. It's happened twice to me and I feel alone and bereft and really have to put on my thinking cap...but my oxygen supply isn't reliant on the reboot of my computer. It is so lucky they have the Shuttle up there at the moment. If nothing else they do have that option of leaving. The other great thing is they have minds far more capable than mine working on the problem...OMG!
OMG!!! They're stuck up there with computers which won't reboot. I am having kittens down here. Those poor astronauts/cosmonauts. It's bad enough being at home without the chance of rebooting your computer. That is always a total bugga and so serious. It's happened twice to me and I feel alone and bereft and really have to put on my thinking cap...but my oxygen supply isn't reliant on the reboot of my computer. It is so lucky they have the Shuttle up there at the moment. If nothing else they do have that option of leaving. The other great thing is they have minds far more capable than mine working on the problem...OMG!
Saturday, June 16, 2007
Australian Temperament Project
Current Activities - Australian Temperament Project - Australian Institute of Family Studies (AIFS): "The thirteenth survey wave of 20 year old young adults and their parents has now been completed."
The data from this last study was reported at the end of 2004, supposedly. This site is very interesting and the sort of constant , ongoing analysis we need. Monitoring ourselves and how we change would surely help us manage the generational changes better and avoid the disasters? We don't hear of this site or its research and yet there must be information coming out of here which we can use to build a safer community for everyone and one where there is a good level of integration and co operation. There are some good links to longitudinal studies of children. The site itself looks at development from infancy to adolescence. I think we could make more of this!
The data from this last study was reported at the end of 2004, supposedly. This site is very interesting and the sort of constant , ongoing analysis we need. Monitoring ourselves and how we change would surely help us manage the generational changes better and avoid the disasters? We don't hear of this site or its research and yet there must be information coming out of here which we can use to build a safer community for everyone and one where there is a good level of integration and co operation. There are some good links to longitudinal studies of children. The site itself looks at development from infancy to adolescence. I think we could make more of this!
Baby monitor picking up shuttle video
Baby monitor picking up shuttle video: "'If you had a receiver in the right frequency, anybody in the public can pick up this signal,' said self-described radio 'geek' Phelps. 'The baby monitor was in the right place at the right time.'"
This is amazing...and hilarious. Fancy switching on your baby monitor and getting shuttle pictures beamed in instead of your cute baby? NASA says the pictures are not coming straight from the Shuttle. So is this a delayed telecast??! Astounding.
This is amazing...and hilarious. Fancy switching on your baby monitor and getting shuttle pictures beamed in instead of your cute baby? NASA says the pictures are not coming straight from the Shuttle. So is this a delayed telecast??! Astounding.
College students think they're so special
College students think they're so special : "The study asserts that narcissists “are more likely to have romantic relationships that are short-lived, at risk for infidelity, lack emotional warmth, and to exhibit game-playing, dishonesty, and over-controlling and violent behaviors.”"
Speaking of narcissists, then I think I might be getting a copy of the book mentioned in this article, Generation Me: Why Today’s Young Americans Are More Confident, Assertive, Entitled — and More Miserable Than Ever Before by Twenge and doesn't the title so fit these kids who cannot be summed up in one word like other kids of other generations? The entitled. The airheads, the over achievers, the super achievers, the winsome wisps and the demanding , special , entitled lot. So, are we having those sorts of problems? Do we have young ones who lack emotional warmth, who trade affection to promote themselves, who cannot take criticism without a profound over reaction with tears and tragedy or violence and aggression? Do we have manipulators? Controllers? Do our young people behave like that? Is this what teachers, the general public and employers are dealing with? The self absorbed, the self indulged, the self centred and the what's your problem the type of person and why haven't you got it right? It must be fun out there!!
Speaking of narcissists, then I think I might be getting a copy of the book mentioned in this article, Generation Me: Why Today’s Young Americans Are More Confident, Assertive, Entitled — and More Miserable Than Ever Before by Twenge and doesn't the title so fit these kids who cannot be summed up in one word like other kids of other generations? The entitled. The airheads, the over achievers, the super achievers, the winsome wisps and the demanding , special , entitled lot. So, are we having those sorts of problems? Do we have young ones who lack emotional warmth, who trade affection to promote themselves, who cannot take criticism without a profound over reaction with tears and tragedy or violence and aggression? Do we have manipulators? Controllers? Do our young people behave like that? Is this what teachers, the general public and employers are dealing with? The self absorbed, the self indulged, the self centred and the what's your problem the type of person and why haven't you got it right? It must be fun out there!!
Monitor the key to good night's sleep
AdelaideNow... Monitor the key to good night's sleep: "A GADGET which records children's sleeping patterns could hold the key to establishing a link between lack of sleep and behavioural problems."
They don't call them the Bubble Wrap generation for nothing , do they? Everything is tested, investigated and explored. And still we have kids behaving badly and adolescents who are full of drama queen performances and high risk behaviour if they do not get what they want. We cater to their every need, soften every blow, balance their diets, test their clothing, harangue their teachers, cross question their doctors and lo! we have narcissists. Bet the employers are having great fun with these serviced , coddled and nannied kids.
They don't call them the Bubble Wrap generation for nothing , do they? Everything is tested, investigated and explored. And still we have kids behaving badly and adolescents who are full of drama queen performances and high risk behaviour if they do not get what they want. We cater to their every need, soften every blow, balance their diets, test their clothing, harangue their teachers, cross question their doctors and lo! we have narcissists. Bet the employers are having great fun with these serviced , coddled and nannied kids.
Frost bites as city plunges to 1.6C
AdelaideNow... Frost bites as city plunges to 1.6C: "'About 70 per cent of the observing stations observed frosts on Friday morning,' he said."
Oh, yes! It's been freeeeeeeeeeezzzzzzing!! Our noses are frozen. It was so funny at the shops today because we were all hugging our new blankets, quilts, electric blankets. Adelaide has decided it's too cold in bed! No one wants to get up and it has been somewhat chilly! I observed frost on my garden Friday morning. I was expecting to see damage when I went out there today, but it's held up pretty well. Everything is lovely and green...but we are all diving for the scarves, gloves and winter woollies. We don't like it!!
Oh, yes! It's been freeeeeeeeeeezzzzzzing!! Our noses are frozen. It was so funny at the shops today because we were all hugging our new blankets, quilts, electric blankets. Adelaide has decided it's too cold in bed! No one wants to get up and it has been somewhat chilly! I observed frost on my garden Friday morning. I was expecting to see damage when I went out there today, but it's held up pretty well. Everything is lovely and green...but we are all diving for the scarves, gloves and winter woollies. We don't like it!!
Friday, June 15, 2007
Epileptics force London Olympic logo offline
Epileptics force London Olympic logo offline : "She added that the organising committee was “absolutely” happy with the logo and had no intention of going back to the drawing board. “It’s launched a creative explosion across the country. It’s fantastic,” she said."
I don't think the epileptics have forced the logo offline. That's a bit harsh. I think the designers haven't taken the health effects into account as they designed it and that's surprising since those sorts of effects which bring about epilepsy are fairly widely known and have been for years. Most lighting displays and special effects always take epilepsy into account. We have had some spectacular displays on and off the Net from all around the world which have been enjoyed by all. We are usually more inclusive in our approach. I am certain it will be able to be managed equitably and still make a strong visual impact.
I don't think the epileptics have forced the logo offline. That's a bit harsh. I think the designers haven't taken the health effects into account as they designed it and that's surprising since those sorts of effects which bring about epilepsy are fairly widely known and have been for years. Most lighting displays and special effects always take epilepsy into account. We have had some spectacular displays on and off the Net from all around the world which have been enjoyed by all. We are usually more inclusive in our approach. I am certain it will be able to be managed equitably and still make a strong visual impact.
Pentagon considered 'gay bomb'
Pentagon considered 'gay bomb' : "The US air force's Wright Laboratory in Ohio had asked in 1994 for $US7.5 million to develop a bomb containing a powerful aphrodisiac chemical that would cause 'homosexual behaviour' to affect 'discipline and morale in enemy units'."
I don't know whether to laugh or cry. Why don't they just spend the money on roads, education or hospitals?
I don't know whether to laugh or cry. Why don't they just spend the money on roads, education or hospitals?
Furore as police lose road chase spikes
Furore as police lose road chase spikes : "Police admitted embarrassment at the incident, which follows the document theft, the loss of a loaded revolver from a detective's holster in a foot chase in February, and the case of an infringement notice handed back to police by a member of the public after it fell off a car roof."
It's going to be nice and obvious if someone has the spikes. They are not the sort of thing to go unnoticed, so someone will know where they are and who has them. Whoever is hiding them is bonkers. They'll turn up, that's for sure. As for the other gaffes, it tends to suggest the police are stressed to the eyeballs. That kind of "forgetfulness" is rare in well trained personnel. Our police are well trained and very particular. They are not slack. I'd be looking at their daily routine, their work conditions and morale.
It's going to be nice and obvious if someone has the spikes. They are not the sort of thing to go unnoticed, so someone will know where they are and who has them. Whoever is hiding them is bonkers. They'll turn up, that's for sure. As for the other gaffes, it tends to suggest the police are stressed to the eyeballs. That kind of "forgetfulness" is rare in well trained personnel. Our police are well trained and very particular. They are not slack. I'd be looking at their daily routine, their work conditions and morale.
Eco-friendly undies
AdelaideNow... Eco-friendly undies: "Emily Humphreys, owner of new Adelaide organic clothing label Pure Eve, is designing the garments from organically-grown cotton and non-toxic dyes."
Well done, well done , well done. Hopefully the organic clothing is so popular we'll get franchises all over the place. What a great lady and what a great idea!! Says a lot about our vocabulary skills if we think organic means edible. Time to brush up on our English. How bad is that?!
Well done, well done , well done. Hopefully the organic clothing is so popular we'll get franchises all over the place. What a great lady and what a great idea!! Says a lot about our vocabulary skills if we think organic means edible. Time to brush up on our English. How bad is that?!
Dwarf planet discovery knocks Pluto
Dwarf planet discovery knocks Pluto back a notch. : "At the time, it was assumed that Pluto was the largest of these so-called dwarf planets, but now comes word that Pluto runs a distant second to Eris, a similar astral body in the Kuiper belt."
Good job I am not an astronomer because I do not get it. Irrespective of whether they are or are not planets, how come Eris was never discovered when the other planets, or non planets in our solar system were? If Eris is in the Kuiper belt where Pluto was discovered centuries ago, how come Eris wasn't or never even mentioned? I wish the article would explain things like that because I want to know. As for Pluto...well, size doesn't matter, does it, so Pluto will always be a planet to me.
Good job I am not an astronomer because I do not get it. Irrespective of whether they are or are not planets, how come Eris was never discovered when the other planets, or non planets in our solar system were? If Eris is in the Kuiper belt where Pluto was discovered centuries ago, how come Eris wasn't or never even mentioned? I wish the article would explain things like that because I want to know. As for Pluto...well, size doesn't matter, does it, so Pluto will always be a planet to me.
Thursday, June 14, 2007
Coming to streets of far-off Karachi — your stolen car
Coming to streets of far-off Karachi — your stolen car - : "EVEN Detective Sergeant Gerry Bashford, a veteran of Victoria Police's organised motor vehicle theft squad, thought it was odd the day he received a phone call from a British counterpart in Pakistan."
The global communication systems can be put to really good use and I bet the owner of the car is thrilled. People are working behind the scenes doing some really good stuff and we rarely get to know about it. This article highlights how global communications can be put to very bad use because cars and car parts are very wanted items in places like Iraq and Afghanistan. The political hotspots need wheels. Your wheels. So enterprising criminals have organised it quite nicely with our modern communications. I guess now the police are aware of it there is some chance of dealing with it. I imagine those new RFID chips could be put to good use in cases like this.
The global communication systems can be put to really good use and I bet the owner of the car is thrilled. People are working behind the scenes doing some really good stuff and we rarely get to know about it. This article highlights how global communications can be put to very bad use because cars and car parts are very wanted items in places like Iraq and Afghanistan. The political hotspots need wheels. Your wheels. So enterprising criminals have organised it quite nicely with our modern communications. I guess now the police are aware of it there is some chance of dealing with it. I imagine those new RFID chips could be put to good use in cases like this.
40L 'Fantasy' haul seized
AdelaideNow... 40L 'Fantasy' haul seized: "Australian Federal Police (AFP) and Australian Customs said today three parcels sent from the United Kingdom were intercepted on their way to Adelaide in early June."
Up there for thinking, planning and action. Well done folks!
Up there for thinking, planning and action. Well done folks!
Extend trade hours call
AdelaideNow... Extend trade hours call: "ANRA chief executive Margy Osmond said the inquiry appeared to be out of touch with community demands.
'Lifestyles are changing, women especially are now juggling jobs, kids, the home and shopping,' Ms Osmond said."
I think hours need to be looked at for lots of things. It is very convenient to be able to online bank as I wish. It is very convenient to pay bills on the phone or Net. Some sectors have revamped themselves. Our lives have changed. I cannot shop when I want to because I am often at meetings and then the shops are shut or I am too tired. For me, I could use public holidays because my working hours have become longer. Most people do a lot of really good , useful things in their free time. They also have to be able to do what they need to do whenever they need to do it because work and family requirements have changed. It will become difficult for small shops but not if we think about it. We have to acknowledge that a lot of people now lead very busy and productive lives. We also need to think of the tourists we are attracting and if means we have to think the whole thing out properly so that it works. Schools probably need to change too because unis have. Universities are having to cater to working students and they have created more flexible hours and courses and use online information delivery well. We also have an ageing population so working hours need to be restructured to allow for part time and alternative approaches. It wont be easy or straight forward but it would probably be good to look at a range of real peopple and what their lives look like now and then the needs they have. We are doing pretty well, but there is no reason for us not to look at how we could smooth some things out and take the stress out of life so that we remain positively productive.
'Lifestyles are changing, women especially are now juggling jobs, kids, the home and shopping,' Ms Osmond said."
I think hours need to be looked at for lots of things. It is very convenient to be able to online bank as I wish. It is very convenient to pay bills on the phone or Net. Some sectors have revamped themselves. Our lives have changed. I cannot shop when I want to because I am often at meetings and then the shops are shut or I am too tired. For me, I could use public holidays because my working hours have become longer. Most people do a lot of really good , useful things in their free time. They also have to be able to do what they need to do whenever they need to do it because work and family requirements have changed. It will become difficult for small shops but not if we think about it. We have to acknowledge that a lot of people now lead very busy and productive lives. We also need to think of the tourists we are attracting and if means we have to think the whole thing out properly so that it works. Schools probably need to change too because unis have. Universities are having to cater to working students and they have created more flexible hours and courses and use online information delivery well. We also have an ageing population so working hours need to be restructured to allow for part time and alternative approaches. It wont be easy or straight forward but it would probably be good to look at a range of real peopple and what their lives look like now and then the needs they have. We are doing pretty well, but there is no reason for us not to look at how we could smooth some things out and take the stress out of life so that we remain positively productive.
Rudd fails to understand basic economic concepts.
Rudd fails to understand basic economic concepts: Howard. : "Prime Minister John Howard says Federal Opposition Leader Kevin Rudd does not understand some basic economic concepts."
Fortunately. Therese Rein, Mr. Rudd's wife is one of the most successful business women we have. Perhaps she should be Treasurer? It's really scandalous we only have one party which can manage our economy and perhaps only one man. We really do have to look at the training and in service development we afford our politicians so we can correct this skills shortage at the highest level. Work shadowing and job sharing might increase our flexibility.
Fortunately. Therese Rein, Mr. Rudd's wife is one of the most successful business women we have. Perhaps she should be Treasurer? It's really scandalous we only have one party which can manage our economy and perhaps only one man. We really do have to look at the training and in service development we afford our politicians so we can correct this skills shortage at the highest level. Work shadowing and job sharing might increase our flexibility.
Wednesday, June 13, 2007
Space mission extended to fix shuttle tear
Space mission extended to fix shuttle tear : "The $US367 million ($435 million) unit includes a pair of wing-like electricity-generating solar panels that were scheduled to be unfurled last night."What's the difference between an astronaut and a cosmonaut? No, it is not a joke. These guys are so brave and skilled. I cannot believe they go up to the ISS in the shuttle in the first place and then go walking out in space erecting massive solar panel structures. There will be four of these solar powered wings in the end but the Russian part of the station has an independent power system. What does it run on? Independent of what? This photo is superb, but there are others which NASA has made available. This must be inspiring millions of children and lighting up their eyes. This is their world and their fuure and it's so exciting...but so scary too. A least the astronauts nagged NASA into letting them fix a tear in the blanket of the shuttle...just incase. OMG, I shall be having kittens again. I cannot stand the suspense of when they launch and come down. When they are floating around up there doing all those awesome things I am okay. I become inspired...but they have to get back.
Say aloe to a new flavour
Say aloe to a new flavour : "Berlin butcher Uwe Buenger has developed a 'chili-honey' Bratwurst while rival Dankert has come up with a 'kiwi wurst' that also includes pineapples and maraschino cherries, Bild newspaper has reported."
Most other national dishes have had a fusion makeover and so I guess it is time for the humble Bratwurst to come upmarket. Personally I like them because they are more substantial than the flimsy sausage squidge we get here. I confess many of our butchers have tried their darndest to get SA to engage with real sausages and some of the sausage makeovers here have been brilliant. I could enjoy these new fashioned Bratwurst...they'd go really well with ginger, apricots or cherries and the fruit flavours would lighten them up a bit for our climate! Stick them in a wrap with salad and you have the perfect fast food! I can't see aloe vera doing anything for them...but maybe it's a nutritional thing, who knows?!
Most other national dishes have had a fusion makeover and so I guess it is time for the humble Bratwurst to come upmarket. Personally I like them because they are more substantial than the flimsy sausage squidge we get here. I confess many of our butchers have tried their darndest to get SA to engage with real sausages and some of the sausage makeovers here have been brilliant. I could enjoy these new fashioned Bratwurst...they'd go really well with ginger, apricots or cherries and the fruit flavours would lighten them up a bit for our climate! Stick them in a wrap with salad and you have the perfect fast food! I can't see aloe vera doing anything for them...but maybe it's a nutritional thing, who knows?!
Warwick Capper now a meter man
Warwick Capper now a meter man : "Capper, who has also worked as a 'stop-go' man on a road repair gang, will wear gold lycra hot pants and a gold sash over his jersey when he takes to the streets of Surfers Paradise three days a week to top up expired parking meters for grateful tourists."
This ex footballer certainly knows how to ring the changes. he always stays flexible and open to opportunities. He just keeps popping up in the oddest places and appears to enjoy every minute of his life. Can't knock him for that. For him it's all an adventure and voyage of discovery. He never fails to challenge himself and others. So where's the photo??
This ex footballer certainly knows how to ring the changes. he always stays flexible and open to opportunities. He just keeps popping up in the oddest places and appears to enjoy every minute of his life. Can't knock him for that. For him it's all an adventure and voyage of discovery. He never fails to challenge himself and others. So where's the photo??
More Aussies holidaying at home
AdelaideNow... More Aussies holidaying at home: "'Now Aussie families are rediscovering great experiences in their own backyard, not only having a great family break but also injecting millions of valuable dollars into regional communities,' Tourism Minister Fran Bailey said."
It was a hard decision, but it was the right one. I decided to spend my dollar at home this year. It means my dollar will help our businesses which have been hit hard by the drought. We do care about each other and it is important for us to know that everyone is okay here before we go wandering off. The drought has affected so many people and so it's about using the leverage we have to ensure families and businesses are stable. Secondly, I spend a lot of time being the tourist and finding my way around other places and it is sheer delight. I figured I should do that here. Treat my own country as the tourist spot and rediscover it in the way I discover other countries. The annoying thing is everything here is about don't hang around in the hotel...go out all day, forever. I need to be able to take a break and have a place to just be my home away from home. I don't want a crash pad. I also find it's all set up for couples and given how many singles and parent - child families we have, it's bad to feel as though you are odd when you are not. It's all about romantic this and that which I am happy to do, but I want to travel alone or with my offspring sometimes and Australia is not geared for that. They are missing out on all those independents out there who need to be made to feel at home in their own country. In a French environment I am not viewed as odd if I go to a cafe myself and sit and read or just enjoy the view and as a lone traveller I can be made to feel more at home. The third reason I have foregone my OS trip is to save carbon and energy. I am doing my bit to change the weather. That is important to me.
It was a hard decision, but it was the right one. I decided to spend my dollar at home this year. It means my dollar will help our businesses which have been hit hard by the drought. We do care about each other and it is important for us to know that everyone is okay here before we go wandering off. The drought has affected so many people and so it's about using the leverage we have to ensure families and businesses are stable. Secondly, I spend a lot of time being the tourist and finding my way around other places and it is sheer delight. I figured I should do that here. Treat my own country as the tourist spot and rediscover it in the way I discover other countries. The annoying thing is everything here is about don't hang around in the hotel...go out all day, forever. I need to be able to take a break and have a place to just be my home away from home. I don't want a crash pad. I also find it's all set up for couples and given how many singles and parent - child families we have, it's bad to feel as though you are odd when you are not. It's all about romantic this and that which I am happy to do, but I want to travel alone or with my offspring sometimes and Australia is not geared for that. They are missing out on all those independents out there who need to be made to feel at home in their own country. In a French environment I am not viewed as odd if I go to a cafe myself and sit and read or just enjoy the view and as a lone traveller I can be made to feel more at home. The third reason I have foregone my OS trip is to save carbon and energy. I am doing my bit to change the weather. That is important to me.
Tuesday, June 12, 2007
Rudd, Dalai Lama meeting 'a political stunt'
AdelaideNow... Rudd, Dalai Lama meeting 'a political stunt': "FEDERAL Opposition Leader Kevin Rudd is only meeting with the Dalai Lama as a political stunt, Foreign Minister Alexander Downer said."
It's a political stunt not meeting with him. It turns it into an issue!!
It's a political stunt not meeting with him. It turns it into an issue!!
Tourism push for premier beach
AdelaideNow... Tourism push for premier beach: "'Jetty Road Main Street Board research shows that at any one time, 16 per cent of people out there are tourists,' he said."
Glenelg is a very handy spot, especially when it is sunny, but it always has a good feel about it. Brighton, which is close by is also coming along and the tram makes it so easy to get to town. Glenelg is self contained and there are lots of things which happen there during the year, so it is very vibrant. For the tourist , it is ideal because everything is there and people I know who have come over here and stayed there have just fallen in love with the place. Some visitors like to get a bike and enjoy cycling along our foreshore here. It's ideal because a lot of the rest of our beach areas are very hilly and you have to be super fit to cycle them!!
Glenelg is a very handy spot, especially when it is sunny, but it always has a good feel about it. Brighton, which is close by is also coming along and the tram makes it so easy to get to town. Glenelg is self contained and there are lots of things which happen there during the year, so it is very vibrant. For the tourist , it is ideal because everything is there and people I know who have come over here and stayed there have just fallen in love with the place. Some visitors like to get a bike and enjoy cycling along our foreshore here. It's ideal because a lot of the rest of our beach areas are very hilly and you have to be super fit to cycle them!!
$720m owed by students
AdelaideNow... $720m owed by students: "Nationally, students and graduates owed a total of $12.9 billion in 2005-06.
This was up from $3.9 billion a decade earlier."
We have to do something about tertiary education. Brains have a right o be educated and it is in our interests to train competent and capable students at the tertiary level. Clearly they cannot afford it. It is a huge amount. Some of them are working which then interferes with their studies and that, in turn, impacts on what universities can achieve. The whole lot needs to be looked at so that it works and so we have a successful and dynamic tertiary education system. It's horrendous that young people have this much debt, but it is also untenable that this much is owing.
This was up from $3.9 billion a decade earlier."
We have to do something about tertiary education. Brains have a right o be educated and it is in our interests to train competent and capable students at the tertiary level. Clearly they cannot afford it. It is a huge amount. Some of them are working which then interferes with their studies and that, in turn, impacts on what universities can achieve. The whole lot needs to be looked at so that it works and so we have a successful and dynamic tertiary education system. It's horrendous that young people have this much debt, but it is also untenable that this much is owing.
Dalai Lama meets Rudd
AdelaideNow... Dalai Lama meets Rudd: "THE Dalai Lama is perplexed why Australians are so bothered about whether or not he meets Prime Minister John Howard."
He's right. Why are we bothered? He has at least been warmly met in the places he has been. I guess it may be something to do with old British customs. When I grew up it was important to meet the people who ought to be met whether you had a need to meet them or not. It was about according them respect according to their perceived status. The more important the person, the more important the people who met them. The Dalai Lama is a spiritual leader. He should be met as such by important people of our nation. It is about "old friends". Or at least important relationships. The odd thing about this British custom was you could think what you liked about these people and their visits but as your guest they were treated well. We seem to have lost that level of graciousness here. It had nothing to do with who they were and whether they were liked or not. If the Archbishop of Canterbury came to visit , you rolled out an appropriate and dignified welcome. If some people didn't like him or disapproved of him that wasn't relevant. It was that he was the head of the Church of England. Same with my Aunt Ag. If she were going to visit, the best china came out, the nicest , daintiest cakes were baked and we sat and had a grand chit chat in honour of Aunt Ag. At the time she was the oldest member of our family and we accorded her some privilege because of that. If the Dalai Lama has bothered to visit us then we should appreciate that visit. If there is a difficulty with other people and nations because of that then that is a separate issue because, in the end, it's about our country and who we welcome. We do not ask other countries or people to meet and greet whom we say anymore than we tell our neighbours whom they may entertain to afternoon tea. We might not like who visits, but that is separate from good manners.
He's right. Why are we bothered? He has at least been warmly met in the places he has been. I guess it may be something to do with old British customs. When I grew up it was important to meet the people who ought to be met whether you had a need to meet them or not. It was about according them respect according to their perceived status. The more important the person, the more important the people who met them. The Dalai Lama is a spiritual leader. He should be met as such by important people of our nation. It is about "old friends". Or at least important relationships. The odd thing about this British custom was you could think what you liked about these people and their visits but as your guest they were treated well. We seem to have lost that level of graciousness here. It had nothing to do with who they were and whether they were liked or not. If the Archbishop of Canterbury came to visit , you rolled out an appropriate and dignified welcome. If some people didn't like him or disapproved of him that wasn't relevant. It was that he was the head of the Church of England. Same with my Aunt Ag. If she were going to visit, the best china came out, the nicest , daintiest cakes were baked and we sat and had a grand chit chat in honour of Aunt Ag. At the time she was the oldest member of our family and we accorded her some privilege because of that. If the Dalai Lama has bothered to visit us then we should appreciate that visit. If there is a difficulty with other people and nations because of that then that is a separate issue because, in the end, it's about our country and who we welcome. We do not ask other countries or people to meet and greet whom we say anymore than we tell our neighbours whom they may entertain to afternoon tea. We might not like who visits, but that is separate from good manners.
Monday, June 11, 2007
Shrek - not ogre and out
AdelaideNow... Shrek - not ogre and out: "AS Shrek the Third opens in Australian cinemas today, work already is under way on Shrek the Fourth and Shrek the Fifth.
Many of the 1400 artists employed at the DreamWorks studio in Los Angeles are busy working on the next two in the series."
From what seemed to be a big, green, weirdo blob, Shrek has grown into a character loved by all age groups. The films have intelligence and they are not just about daft characters doing dumb things. The level of complexity and thought is a credit to the whole Dreamworks studio and the number of talented artists working on the films. Shrek seems to bring out the best in people both in terms of creativity and humour. The films certainly contribute to people feeling good to and just being able to relax, let it all go and frolic in a frolicksome way with Shrek.
Many of the 1400 artists employed at the DreamWorks studio in Los Angeles are busy working on the next two in the series."
From what seemed to be a big, green, weirdo blob, Shrek has grown into a character loved by all age groups. The films have intelligence and they are not just about daft characters doing dumb things. The level of complexity and thought is a credit to the whole Dreamworks studio and the number of talented artists working on the films. Shrek seems to bring out the best in people both in terms of creativity and humour. The films certainly contribute to people feeling good to and just being able to relax, let it all go and frolic in a frolicksome way with Shrek.
Drunk passenger causes havoc on flight
Drunk passenger causes havoc on flight : "A 42-year-old Exmouth man was arrested when the plane touched down and charged with offensive and disorderly behaviour on an aircraft."
So, is he banned from flying as well? Flying is a confined space up in the air so behaving in such a fashion is only magnified because there is no way out...and for him to threaten to open doors on a plane...I'm sorry, once is more than enough. I don't think he should be able to be on a flight. There is a certain code of conduct which HAS to be on a plane and we abide by it because it makes us all feel better and more relaxed. People who show they are not able to operate with that level of basic trust shouldn't be on a plane.
So, is he banned from flying as well? Flying is a confined space up in the air so behaving in such a fashion is only magnified because there is no way out...and for him to threaten to open doors on a plane...I'm sorry, once is more than enough. I don't think he should be able to be on a flight. There is a certain code of conduct which HAS to be on a plane and we abide by it because it makes us all feel better and more relaxed. People who show they are not able to operate with that level of basic trust shouldn't be on a plane.
Nothing wrong with Dalai Lama
Nothing wrong with Dalai Lama, says PM : "'My main interest is meeting with the public because my main concern is promotion of human values and promotion of religious harmony,' he said."
I cannot believe our official people would avoid a meeting with the Dalai Lama. He is the Dalai Lama. There is no need to faf around, it's not manners. Graciousness appears to be a thing of the past in this country.
I cannot believe our official people would avoid a meeting with the Dalai Lama. He is the Dalai Lama. There is no need to faf around, it's not manners. Graciousness appears to be a thing of the past in this country.
40 years of eating live rats, frogs
40 years of eating live rats, frogs : "Over the years Jiang had added live mice, baby rats and green frogs to his diet, and had once eaten 20 mice in a single day, the paper said."
OMG, OMG,OMG!!!!!! Live frogs, rats, mice...but he is happy and well. He has cured his stomach ailments and persistent coughing. They do say that fresh food is good for you. I must make sure I stay away from stomach ailments.
OMG, OMG,OMG!!!!!! Live frogs, rats, mice...but he is happy and well. He has cured his stomach ailments and persistent coughing. They do say that fresh food is good for you. I must make sure I stay away from stomach ailments.
Man bleeds green
Man bleeds green : "'But in his case, the blood kept coming back as dark green instead of bright red. It was sort of a green-black. Like an avocado skin maybe. We were very concerned, obviously.'"
Ooooh, yuuuuck...green blood! I bet he surgeons were concerned. I guess they have to deal with a lot of things in their daily routine, but green blood? Inky green blood? It was the brand of headache pills he had taken...but no ownder he couldn't get rid fo the headache if they were turning his blood green. Just goes to show that you have to be careful what you take and you need to follow the instructions.
Ooooh, yuuuuck...green blood! I bet he surgeons were concerned. I guess they have to deal with a lot of things in their daily routine, but green blood? Inky green blood? It was the brand of headache pills he had taken...but no ownder he couldn't get rid fo the headache if they were turning his blood green. Just goes to show that you have to be careful what you take and you need to follow the instructions.
Sunday, June 10, 2007
Ethanol frenzy feeding US corn boom
Ethanol frenzy feeding US corn boom : "But come harvest time in October, some of the corn will not be going into food products such as corn syrup (widely used as a food sweetener) or corn starch, it will end up in service stations."
Indeed , indeed. For the corn farmers, it's great but it means quite a few things will change in the US and it seems they are quite ingenious at dealing with the changes. I saw on the French news last night that the pig farmers in America really had to be thinking outside the square to get food for their pigs because the corn wasn't available. It was going into he manufacture of ethanol. Well, can't starve the poor pigs or no dinner for you! So the pig farmers had used a pig nutritionist and had come up with this amazing mix of feed with chocolate and M&Ms mixed into it. The little pigs looked really happy and well on it...and so clean and pink! There was a lot of other stuff in the feed too...and I'd share that with you if I could remember!! Oh, thank heavens for the Net:
Trail mix for pigs
Indeed , indeed. For the corn farmers, it's great but it means quite a few things will change in the US and it seems they are quite ingenious at dealing with the changes. I saw on the French news last night that the pig farmers in America really had to be thinking outside the square to get food for their pigs because the corn wasn't available. It was going into he manufacture of ethanol. Well, can't starve the poor pigs or no dinner for you! So the pig farmers had used a pig nutritionist and had come up with this amazing mix of feed with chocolate and M&Ms mixed into it. The little pigs looked really happy and well on it...and so clean and pink! There was a lot of other stuff in the feed too...and I'd share that with you if I could remember!! Oh, thank heavens for the Net:
Trail mix for pigs
Firefox
I like Firefox as a browser because it runs "lite". There is no feeling you are dragging half the Net around with you. It took me a while but I had loaded Firefox onto my new laptop and then realised it was better than the one I was running on my desktop. So, I finally upgraded my desktop version! It does spell checking for blogging and emails. That is so handy.The tabbed browsing is smoother too. My usual extensions come in better versions so my weather and reminders look so much better. This latest version really is a cut above. Just give it a whirl.
Private school fees rise
Private school fees rise despite windfall: "MELBOURNE'S top private schools have enjoyed windfall gains in Commonwealth funding with increases of up to 500 per cent in recent years, but have continued to hike their fees at well above the inflation rate."
I do not actually understand why private schools get Government funding but I am sure there is some ludicrous economic explanation of this. Proper funding for proper children. User pays. There are plenty of state school which need programmes, infrastructure and repairs. I am sure state school children would like state of the art classrooms and buildings. It's about the accumulation of wealth. Some of these schools are becoming very rich and are investing in buildings which will increase their wealth. it's like churches used to do. Private schools have become the new era churches so that wealth is accumulated in their land and buildings. Investment for the wealthy. Given the parents are also being charged extra fees so I guess it's about just how far they can push their income mechanisms. So what is in it for the children and how does it help education? We really are getting good at the haves and the have nots.
I do not actually understand why private schools get Government funding but I am sure there is some ludicrous economic explanation of this. Proper funding for proper children. User pays. There are plenty of state school which need programmes, infrastructure and repairs. I am sure state school children would like state of the art classrooms and buildings. It's about the accumulation of wealth. Some of these schools are becoming very rich and are investing in buildings which will increase their wealth. it's like churches used to do. Private schools have become the new era churches so that wealth is accumulated in their land and buildings. Investment for the wealthy. Given the parents are also being charged extra fees so I guess it's about just how far they can push their income mechanisms. So what is in it for the children and how does it help education? We really are getting good at the haves and the have nots.
Parent rage
Parent rage pushing teachers to the edge:
"The call comes amid claims teachers are being punched, kicked, choked and spat on.
Many teachers have received death threats from parents."
This is outrageous!
"The call comes amid claims teachers are being punched, kicked, choked and spat on.
Many teachers have received death threats from parents."
This is outrageous!
Parent rage pushing teachers to the edge
Parent rage pushing teachers to the edge : "Some angry parents had stormed into classes and confronted students who were bullying their child, and then violently turned on the teacher if they dared to intervene.
Female principals had been punched in the face while others were told they would be killed if they picked on a particular child."
No one else, apart from doctors, has to put up with outrageous , violent, abusive behaviour like this in their work place. This is awful. Is this how we respect education. Obviously the parents are totally uncivilised. I think school should just shut down and the teachers should stay home until the parents are prepared to treat them with respect. No one else is used and abused like this. Other countries have shut their schools. We need to. I cannot believe they have had to put up with this. Doctors have been treated like this and it is outrageous. It's why we cannot get doctors. It is not on. This has to be stopped immediately. Workplaces should be safe and civilised. This is Australia. Who do they think they are? No wonder we cannot get teachers either. It's more than the responsibility of the Education Dept. Our country should not tolerate any person in any job being treated like this.
Female principals had been punched in the face while others were told they would be killed if they picked on a particular child."
No one else, apart from doctors, has to put up with outrageous , violent, abusive behaviour like this in their work place. This is awful. Is this how we respect education. Obviously the parents are totally uncivilised. I think school should just shut down and the teachers should stay home until the parents are prepared to treat them with respect. No one else is used and abused like this. Other countries have shut their schools. We need to. I cannot believe they have had to put up with this. Doctors have been treated like this and it is outrageous. It's why we cannot get doctors. It is not on. This has to be stopped immediately. Workplaces should be safe and civilised. This is Australia. Who do they think they are? No wonder we cannot get teachers either. It's more than the responsibility of the Education Dept. Our country should not tolerate any person in any job being treated like this.
Saturday, June 09, 2007
'Wiiitis'
If it's not tennis elbow, it may be 'Wiiitis' : "Wiiitis - pronounced 'wee-eye-tis' - is the latest ailment to develop from the video game era, beginning with Space Invaders' wrist in 1981, which was caused by the repeated button mashing required by the popular arcade game."
Doctors won't be recommending incontinence knickers for this wee-eye-tis. Can't believe it. Wiiitis!! Whatever next? In the sense it gets you off your backside and moving, that's a good thing. It certainly hooks the kids in the shops. They love playing the free Wii games made available to them. So it is a positive impact in that sense. I guess we'll learn to use it properly and know that this form of game addiction will hurt. Pain is a great teacher.
Doctors won't be recommending incontinence knickers for this wee-eye-tis. Can't believe it. Wiiitis!! Whatever next? In the sense it gets you off your backside and moving, that's a good thing. It certainly hooks the kids in the shops. They love playing the free Wii games made available to them. So it is a positive impact in that sense. I guess we'll learn to use it properly and know that this form of game addiction will hurt. Pain is a great teacher.
It's a fair cop, says Fat Tony
It's a fair cop, says Fat Tony : "'I don't know how they did it, if it was an informer rolling over, but you've got to give it to them, they found me and got me,' Mokbel told The Weekend Australian last night."
I confess this has brought a smile to our lips. We were looking at the fake ID and photos and it is something we have been chortling about. He is someone who needs to be caught up with and dealt with because he wanted to negotiate his gaol sentence. It all needs to be sorted out properly. Hopefully his children can find a bit of stability now.
I confess this has brought a smile to our lips. We were looking at the fake ID and photos and it is something we have been chortling about. He is someone who needs to be caught up with and dealt with because he wanted to negotiate his gaol sentence. It all needs to be sorted out properly. Hopefully his children can find a bit of stability now.
Overseas link in Carly case
AdelaideNow... Overseas link in Carly case: "AdelaideNow cannot publish comment on this story until the case has been resolved."
I think that is perfectly right and proper. This case has been kept safely in our hearts in SA from the moment we heard it. We have said little. The odd sentence because it is just so very, very sad yet another young life gone for no reason. We feel for the girl, her mother, her friends. We say little but we care lots. It's important it not be discussed. It's part of the deep respect we wish to share and it is vital the police can go about their business in their own efficient manner. It'll be a difficult case for the police because they become upset with cases like this. They are very painstaking here and just need to be able to get on with their job so that it is set right properly even if we cannot bring poor Carly back to life. For us, we know we have a lot to learn so the lesson needs to be well thought out.
I think that is perfectly right and proper. This case has been kept safely in our hearts in SA from the moment we heard it. We have said little. The odd sentence because it is just so very, very sad yet another young life gone for no reason. We feel for the girl, her mother, her friends. We say little but we care lots. It's important it not be discussed. It's part of the deep respect we wish to share and it is vital the police can go about their business in their own efficient manner. It'll be a difficult case for the police because they become upset with cases like this. They are very painstaking here and just need to be able to get on with their job so that it is set right properly even if we cannot bring poor Carly back to life. For us, we know we have a lot to learn so the lesson needs to be well thought out.
British police 'cheap labour'
AdelaideNow... British police 'cheap labour': "'The pay and conditions I have endured over my probationary period of 12 months was, is and always will be an insult to my experience, capabilities and performance.'"
So what is he going to do now that he has got it off his chest? I assume he'll be going back to the better UK conditions after his horrible stint here.
So what is he going to do now that he has got it off his chest? I assume he'll be going back to the better UK conditions after his horrible stint here.
Crying Hilton sent back to prison.
Crying Hilton sent back to prison. : "Hilton was led out of the court in handcuffs and crying 'Mom, Mom. It's not right' as she was taken away to serve the remainder of her 45-day sentence for violating her probation in a reckless driving conviction."
I am sure her medical problems will be dealt with in the same way as the medical problems of other people who find themselves in gaol. That's the whole point. If you do not want to be there, then you do not do the things which bring you there. It isn't right. She has led a life of such advantage and yet cannot use that to benefit herself in the right way. Having had all she has had, she needs to be able to direct that into positive outcomes for herself rather than the thought it means she can do anything and get away with it. It's hard for us to have laws and justice if there is a group of privileged who can escape them. It means laws and justice are for the non privileged and that makes a mockery of one of the biggest foundations of our current society. Doing her time means she will show she is not above the law and can show others, well, I've paid for it, now I'll get on with my life. In that sense she is still advantaged because she has a life and status to go back to. Other people have to crawl up from the bottom again when they do time.
I am sure her medical problems will be dealt with in the same way as the medical problems of other people who find themselves in gaol. That's the whole point. If you do not want to be there, then you do not do the things which bring you there. It isn't right. She has led a life of such advantage and yet cannot use that to benefit herself in the right way. Having had all she has had, she needs to be able to direct that into positive outcomes for herself rather than the thought it means she can do anything and get away with it. It's hard for us to have laws and justice if there is a group of privileged who can escape them. It means laws and justice are for the non privileged and that makes a mockery of one of the biggest foundations of our current society. Doing her time means she will show she is not above the law and can show others, well, I've paid for it, now I'll get on with my life. In that sense she is still advantaged because she has a life and status to go back to. Other people have to crawl up from the bottom again when they do time.
Friday, June 08, 2007
Work place injuries out of control
AdelaideNow... Work place injuries out of control: "'Often we have had to prosecute employers with otherwise good safety records because they allowed complacency to dominate their attitude to workplace safety with tragic results.'"
If the workplaces have exemplary work safety records then it may not be complacency. Adelaide has certainly been very odd this last week. Lots of people are sick. Lots of people are stressed and lots of people are plain not coping. People are also going to work sick. The weather has changed dramatically. The travelling to work has been tricky. All sorts of things are affecting us and there has been a sense of people being disturbed. Quite what has disturbed them is not clear. There are things which are affecting us and we need to look at that. The accidents are a symptom and the erratic behaviour is another. We are not ourselves. We've hit the wall.
If the workplaces have exemplary work safety records then it may not be complacency. Adelaide has certainly been very odd this last week. Lots of people are sick. Lots of people are stressed and lots of people are plain not coping. People are also going to work sick. The weather has changed dramatically. The travelling to work has been tricky. All sorts of things are affecting us and there has been a sense of people being disturbed. Quite what has disturbed them is not clear. There are things which are affecting us and we need to look at that. The accidents are a symptom and the erratic behaviour is another. We are not ourselves. We've hit the wall.
American bright sparks invent wireless power
AM - American bright sparks invent wireless power: "Critics of the concept of sending power wirelessly, say it would be inefficient, with the energy radiating in all directions. But the researchers say with their method, the transmitter only imparts energy to a device which is resonating at the same frequency."
I heard this report this morning and I guess it was only a matter of time before we developed a way of using electricity without all the wires. It would radicalize our way of life and move us forwards into the new millennium. The constantly having to plug it in is holding us back. I was wondering though how you could protect things from vibrating at the frequency to STOP them picking up the electrical current so there wouldn't be accidents and unexpected arcing. It's early days yet and I am sure this white electricity will be developed into something we can use in the same way we use plugged in electrical current. It's a matter of research and time. It's a fascinating discovery.
I heard this report this morning and I guess it was only a matter of time before we developed a way of using electricity without all the wires. It would radicalize our way of life and move us forwards into the new millennium. The constantly having to plug it in is holding us back. I was wondering though how you could protect things from vibrating at the frequency to STOP them picking up the electrical current so there wouldn't be accidents and unexpected arcing. It's early days yet and I am sure this white electricity will be developed into something we can use in the same way we use plugged in electrical current. It's a matter of research and time. It's a fascinating discovery.
Black cars most likely to be involved in accidents: NRMA.
Black cars most likely to be involved in accidents: NRMA. : "The report, which links road safety to car colour, gives black cars a 12 per cent chance of being involved in a crash and says white cars are the safest on the road."
The last time I am aware they did a colour coding of accident statistics it was red cars which were more involved in accidents and, for long enough, no one would buy a red car here. I am wondering whether it's actually drivers and the colours are just co incidental?
The last time I am aware they did a colour coding of accident statistics it was red cars which were more involved in accidents and, for long enough, no one would buy a red car here. I am wondering whether it's actually drivers and the colours are just co incidental?
Judge orders hearing on Hilton's early release.
Judge orders hearing on Hilton's early release. : "Hilton herself issued a statement hours after her release thanking the jail staff for 'treating me fairly and professionally'.
'I have learned a great deal from this ordeal and hope others have learned from my mistakes,' she said."
People without money and status are not able to make such grandiose statements. If they do the crime, they do the time and there is no way out. I guess the law is for people without money. If we didn't know that now then Paris Hilton has allowed us to learn well.
'I have learned a great deal from this ordeal and hope others have learned from my mistakes,' she said."
People without money and status are not able to make such grandiose statements. If they do the crime, they do the time and there is no way out. I guess the law is for people without money. If we didn't know that now then Paris Hilton has allowed us to learn well.
Thursday, June 07, 2007
Paris may be out of jail today
Paris may be out of jail today : "The British tabloid said Hollywood was abuzz with rumours that the heiress was about to walk out of the Century Regional Detention Facility."
If it is true then what is supposed to be justice for all is actually a publicity stunt for those who have money. If you have money you don't actually have to participate in justice like the rest of us. Money allows us to be above the law.Paris may have done us a favour by showing us that equity really does not exist.
If it is true then what is supposed to be justice for all is actually a publicity stunt for those who have money. If you have money you don't actually have to participate in justice like the rest of us. Money allows us to be above the law.Paris may have done us a favour by showing us that equity really does not exist.
Wild weather
AdelaideNow... Tornado devastates villages: "'This is the fiercest tornado hitting the district over the past 20 years,'' Tran Ba Cao, an officer from the Thai Phuong commune people's committee, said according to the state-run Vietnam News Agency."
Tornadoes hitting Vietnam, the worst cyclones hitting Pakistan, the worst tropical storms hitting Iran and a little while back we had unheard of mini tornadoes hitting us, and we don't think the weather machine is in need of repair? We have really got to get our act together and wake up to ourselves. We need to fix this fast.
Tornadoes hitting Vietnam, the worst cyclones hitting Pakistan, the worst tropical storms hitting Iran and a little while back we had unheard of mini tornadoes hitting us, and we don't think the weather machine is in need of repair? We have really got to get our act together and wake up to ourselves. We need to fix this fast.
Rudd unveils plan for trades cert.
Rudd unveils plan for trades cert. : "'For us as the alternative government, having a trade certificate is just as important as having a university degree,' he said."
It takes all kinds and school students need to have a way of developing their skills and knowledge in line with how they are as people and what we need from them to stay competitive as a country. Oddly enough my friend's young son was all set to do year 12 this year and had had good results but couldn't stand another year sitting, sitting, sitting. Luckily he had done some of the job training courses available at his school and was snapped up by a firm as their new apprentice. He was happy because his school training was counting towards the apprenticeship. The firm was happy because they had a lad with some knowledge under his belt and the parents are happy because their son is energetic and smiling again. We are all different.
It takes all kinds and school students need to have a way of developing their skills and knowledge in line with how they are as people and what we need from them to stay competitive as a country. Oddly enough my friend's young son was all set to do year 12 this year and had had good results but couldn't stand another year sitting, sitting, sitting. Luckily he had done some of the job training courses available at his school and was snapped up by a firm as their new apprentice. He was happy because his school training was counting towards the apprenticeship. The firm was happy because they had a lad with some knowledge under his belt and the parents are happy because their son is energetic and smiling again. We are all different.
Costello warns against economic 'L-plater'.
Costello warns against economic 'L-plater'. : "'This is like a highly engineered racing car and I tell you what, I wouldn't be putting an L-plate driver in the cockpit at the moment,' he said."
Whoever takes over from Mr. Costello will be a so called L plater whatever party they come from. Oddly enough this is what we have done throughout history, replaced one person with another. Sad to say we are not indispensable.
Whoever takes over from Mr. Costello will be a so called L plater whatever party they come from. Oddly enough this is what we have done throughout history, replaced one person with another. Sad to say we are not indispensable.
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