Boys want more male teachers : "The survey found that 51 per cent of boys said having a male teacher made them behave better and 42 per cent said it made them work harder."
I think both sexes should be represented in kindergartens, day cares, schools and homes. It's important for children to have access to adults in all their shapes, sizes and forms. Some of the most unlikely looking people become the most astounding teachers and leave lessons you never forget. Kids are bombarded with media images so it's important their real like role models and influences are real and represent the human race! It's not surprising boys would like men teachers...but it's important children learn to relate to both sexes. Seems odd they think they behave better for men. Some of my strictest teachers who got the best performances were women.
Tuesday, July 31, 2007
Al Gore's son goes into rehab after bust
Al Gore's son goes into rehab after bust : "THE son of former vice president Al Gore has been ordered to participate in a drug detoxification program, four weeks after being caught with drugs"
Gen Y certainly knows how to stick it to their parents. Got them wrapped around their little fingers. All these dads, all these sons, what's that all about? Jealously??!
Gen Y certainly knows how to stick it to their parents. Got them wrapped around their little fingers. All these dads, all these sons, what's that all about? Jealously??!
Labour plan a backward step, says PM
Labour plan a backward step, says PM : "PRIME Minister John Howard has criticised a Labor plan to give the states more freedom over how they spend federal funding, calling it a backward step."
Many people have commented about how the Howard government has turned back the clock. So maybe we do need to go backwards in order to go forwards. We used to be happier, freer, relaxed, positive. We used to have nice sunshine and blue skies and we used to be able to wander the streets and let our kids play outside. We enjoyed going to work and we could talk freely to each other. Trains ran on their tracks, buildings stayed in one spot and one piece. The sharks came and went. The planes stayed in the air and in one piece. Our kids were laughing and smiling and out on their bikes and skateboards.Sometimes they had a dose of the flu or a bit of a cold. They were hanging out at the beach and in the pool. There was a lot of laughter. Kids went to school and then to uni. Some got apprenticeships. School was for school work, home for homework and the weekend for hanging around with your mates listening to music. Friday night was great. Sunday was silent and yes...we ate breakfast lunch and dinner which we cooked. Let's go backwards.
Many people have commented about how the Howard government has turned back the clock. So maybe we do need to go backwards in order to go forwards. We used to be happier, freer, relaxed, positive. We used to have nice sunshine and blue skies and we used to be able to wander the streets and let our kids play outside. We enjoyed going to work and we could talk freely to each other. Trains ran on their tracks, buildings stayed in one spot and one piece. The sharks came and went. The planes stayed in the air and in one piece. Our kids were laughing and smiling and out on their bikes and skateboards.Sometimes they had a dose of the flu or a bit of a cold. They were hanging out at the beach and in the pool. There was a lot of laughter. Kids went to school and then to uni. Some got apprenticeships. School was for school work, home for homework and the weekend for hanging around with your mates listening to music. Friday night was great. Sunday was silent and yes...we ate breakfast lunch and dinner which we cooked. Let's go backwards.
Marmo-set complete after monkey's return
Marmo-set complete after monkey's return : "'I haven't seen him but he was stressed and dehydrated so the keepers are giving him a feed and then he'll be back with his buddies where he feels more secure,' he said."
When you see the monkey, you'll see how cute a lovable it is and so you can understand people wanting it. That's one thing. Stealing it? That's another. We keep being told that teenagers haven't properly developed their brains, but most teenagers would understand that as cute as this monkey is, it's special and it needs to be looked after carefully. Most people get that. Even little kids get that. You cannot just take what you want. They probably didn't want it because they had no idea how to care for it...so what made them take the cute wee thing? Thank heavens it has been returned and can be brought back to health.
When you see the monkey, you'll see how cute a lovable it is and so you can understand people wanting it. That's one thing. Stealing it? That's another. We keep being told that teenagers haven't properly developed their brains, but most teenagers would understand that as cute as this monkey is, it's special and it needs to be looked after carefully. Most people get that. Even little kids get that. You cannot just take what you want. They probably didn't want it because they had no idea how to care for it...so what made them take the cute wee thing? Thank heavens it has been returned and can be brought back to health.
Study to research poor student uni enrolments
Study to research poor student uni enrolments ): "'My view of the world would be that it is happening and that we haven't really bridged that divide,' he said.
'While we've increased participation in university education we're still mainly dealing with people from the middle and upper socio-economic status groups.'"
We have held the view that money means brains. We have believed that the riff raff should be kept out of universities and need vocational training because that will be better for them. We have not educated people. We have been busy creating the privileged and the non privileged so extending the best brains in the country has not been part of recent conversations.
'While we've increased participation in university education we're still mainly dealing with people from the middle and upper socio-economic status groups.'"
We have held the view that money means brains. We have believed that the riff raff should be kept out of universities and need vocational training because that will be better for them. We have not educated people. We have been busy creating the privileged and the non privileged so extending the best brains in the country has not been part of recent conversations.
Monday, July 30, 2007
Glass bottle under threat
AdelaideNow... Glass bottle under threat: "However, wine in a PET bottle has a shorter shelf life because oxygen seeps in."
No way I'd be buying wine in a plastic bottle and I'm not even a connoisseur. Honestly!
No way I'd be buying wine in a plastic bottle and I'm not even a connoisseur. Honestly!
Owning a home 'life's biggest dream'
AdelaideNow... Owning a home 'life's biggest dream': "The top three goals for South Australians included seeing more of the world, volunteering and owning their own home."
Typical of South Australians they would want to volunteer. We are helpers by nature and we will use our skills to help others. Some SA people travel overseas to help and though we are not the only people to volunteer , the concept is widely accepted. It means we are less self centred, it means we get a lot of experience and it means we have the knowledge that we help others as well as ourselves. The home has always been a dream here. Everyone has always wanted to own a home so it's not a surprise. Travelling is also rated highly because we are a small state in numbers and we know we have to get out there to see how others live. Travelling is also important to us because we need to broaden our own horizons and we really enjoy finding out about other places and people. It's common for Australians to do the big OS trip but it is becoming increasingly popular here for young people to be working overseas.
Typical of South Australians they would want to volunteer. We are helpers by nature and we will use our skills to help others. Some SA people travel overseas to help and though we are not the only people to volunteer , the concept is widely accepted. It means we are less self centred, it means we get a lot of experience and it means we have the knowledge that we help others as well as ourselves. The home has always been a dream here. Everyone has always wanted to own a home so it's not a surprise. Travelling is also rated highly because we are a small state in numbers and we know we have to get out there to see how others live. Travelling is also important to us because we need to broaden our own horizons and we really enjoy finding out about other places and people. It's common for Australians to do the big OS trip but it is becoming increasingly popular here for young people to be working overseas.
Potty-mouthed priest ashamed of outburst
AdelaideNow... Potty-mouthed priest ashamed of outburst: "'I can't excuse it, I wouldn't even try to, I don't know why I said those things. It might be linked up in some way that so many priests are considered to be pedophiles and here I was being called one.'"
I think we need to look at what was going on at the time and what had occurred before. There are experts out there who manipulate others so that the other person looks hostile and aggressive whereas anger can be a valid reaction to being pushed too far. Yes, I am sure he could have done it better. This is where you need a mediator and a conference. The skateboarders need to explain their behaviour and their words and the priest needs to be able to speak his mind. It's obviously something which can be talked out because even Jesus lost his temper in the temple. We need to look at what is going on for the priest and then why the skateboarders would want to needle a priest. To say the least there is a communication breakdown but it's a matter of looking at how it all occurred and what misconceptions have led to anger on both sides. The skateboarders are obviously angry too if they would want to provoke a priest. For the priest it may be a lot more complex than an undignified outburst. It really needs to be negotiated.
I think we need to look at what was going on at the time and what had occurred before. There are experts out there who manipulate others so that the other person looks hostile and aggressive whereas anger can be a valid reaction to being pushed too far. Yes, I am sure he could have done it better. This is where you need a mediator and a conference. The skateboarders need to explain their behaviour and their words and the priest needs to be able to speak his mind. It's obviously something which can be talked out because even Jesus lost his temper in the temple. We need to look at what is going on for the priest and then why the skateboarders would want to needle a priest. To say the least there is a communication breakdown but it's a matter of looking at how it all occurred and what misconceptions have led to anger on both sides. The skateboarders are obviously angry too if they would want to provoke a priest. For the priest it may be a lot more complex than an undignified outburst. It really needs to be negotiated.
Third of Iraqi children malnourished
AdelaideNow... Third of Iraqi children malnourished: "Malnutrition amongst children has dramatically increased and basic services, ruined by years of war and sanctions, cannot meet the needs of the Iraqi people,' Oxfam director Jeremy Hobbs said."
So how many have we actually killed? That's democracy for you. Oxfam can't work in the country because it's unsafe and the underfunded Iraqi agencies are not coping. We are doing well. And some people think pulling our troops out would be defeat. This is defeat. Starving and killing children is awful. Just awful. Worse thing is we'll keep talking about it while these children suffer.
So how many have we actually killed? That's democracy for you. Oxfam can't work in the country because it's unsafe and the underfunded Iraqi agencies are not coping. We are doing well. And some people think pulling our troops out would be defeat. This is defeat. Starving and killing children is awful. Just awful. Worse thing is we'll keep talking about it while these children suffer.
Sunday, July 29, 2007
140km/h dash for pregnant partner
AdelaideNow... 140km/h dash for pregnant partner: "Matthew's partner, Melissa, gave birth to a daughter, Laila, a short time later at the Women's and Children's Hospital."
140Km/hour on the Main North Road isn't safe. He may not have had a baby daughter and wife. We keep having these births which are not managed easily. The fact he had to come that far for a delivery is one thing. Then people seem to be unclear as to the right time to head for hospital. There always will be sudden births. I was one. My Mum had me at my Grandmother's when I should have been in hospital. Matthew tried to let the police know , but I think we need to think and work out why we are in a state of desperation when it comes to giving birth and that people are putting too many lives at risk. He could have stopped and rang an ambulance but may not have felt competent in what may have eventuated. In any case, all is well, but...phew!
140Km/hour on the Main North Road isn't safe. He may not have had a baby daughter and wife. We keep having these births which are not managed easily. The fact he had to come that far for a delivery is one thing. Then people seem to be unclear as to the right time to head for hospital. There always will be sudden births. I was one. My Mum had me at my Grandmother's when I should have been in hospital. Matthew tried to let the police know , but I think we need to think and work out why we are in a state of desperation when it comes to giving birth and that people are putting too many lives at risk. He could have stopped and rang an ambulance but may not have felt competent in what may have eventuated. In any case, all is well, but...phew!
Students dump meals
AdelaideNow... Students dump meals: "One school of about 500 students threw away 200 reusable zip-lock bags in one day, which would add up to about 40,000 bags during the school year."
The Wipe Out Waste is making some interesting findings. Our children are not only creating a lot of waste , they are not eating what is probably a nutritious lunch box. So how much money are these kids costing in waste removal, hazards to the environment and then money spent on groceries? Is that is nation where the kids have too much? It's disgusting.
The Wipe Out Waste is making some interesting findings. Our children are not only creating a lot of waste , they are not eating what is probably a nutritious lunch box. So how much money are these kids costing in waste removal, hazards to the environment and then money spent on groceries? Is that is nation where the kids have too much? It's disgusting.
Rents rocket in boom town
AdelaideNow... Rents rocket in boom town: "'The most expensive house in Roxby Downs four years ago was about $200,000 and we've just broken through the $500,000 mark. I can remember selling a house there about 4 1/2 years ago that was difficult to sell at about $92,000."
The great mining boom. Advantage money. Disadvantage no money. So those with money get more. Just like the industrial revolution. Why do we never change? I hear Roxby is a pretty good place to live and there's a good sense of community. To keep it happy and well will advantage it and like any other boom, people will make money from it. I'd like to think the workers can benefit as well and that we'll create a mining town which is a model for others. Mining towns haven't had a good history even though they have made personal fortunes for some. To create a viable mining town for everyone would be fantastic. meanwhile...property investment...that-a-way.
The great mining boom. Advantage money. Disadvantage no money. So those with money get more. Just like the industrial revolution. Why do we never change? I hear Roxby is a pretty good place to live and there's a good sense of community. To keep it happy and well will advantage it and like any other boom, people will make money from it. I'd like to think the workers can benefit as well and that we'll create a mining town which is a model for others. Mining towns haven't had a good history even though they have made personal fortunes for some. To create a viable mining town for everyone would be fantastic. meanwhile...property investment...that-a-way.
KG's bikie shock
AdelaideNow... KG's bikie shock: "5AA general manager Paul Bartlett yesterday said Cunningham had not breached any station guidelines and no action would be taken against him. 'Anyone who knows KG knows him to be a man of the highest integrity,' he said."
Absolutely and if it can happen to KG , it can happen to us. When you buy shares you don't often think about who owns the company and what the connections are. We are now learning that and for KG it is something he is learning in the public eye whereas, if it happened to us, we would have a chance to sort it out in private. There are some people who know who is who and what is what but most of us do not. To that end, I think we actually need to know which companies to buy in and which to avoid...but that probably won't work either because you could be accused of falsely naming names. Okay, someone brighter than I am is going to have to show us the way to do this so we are not encouraging things and people we do not want to. KG is big enough to overcome this, but it's a bit unfair to target him in public...unless it was deliberate, which it obviously wasn't.
Absolutely and if it can happen to KG , it can happen to us. When you buy shares you don't often think about who owns the company and what the connections are. We are now learning that and for KG it is something he is learning in the public eye whereas, if it happened to us, we would have a chance to sort it out in private. There are some people who know who is who and what is what but most of us do not. To that end, I think we actually need to know which companies to buy in and which to avoid...but that probably won't work either because you could be accused of falsely naming names. Okay, someone brighter than I am is going to have to show us the way to do this so we are not encouraging things and people we do not want to. KG is big enough to overcome this, but it's a bit unfair to target him in public...unless it was deliberate, which it obviously wasn't.
Washington split over Clinton cleavage
Washington split over Clinton cleavage : "'It belonged to Senator Hillary Clinton' who wore 'a rose-colored blazer over a black top. The neckline sat low on her chest and had a subtle V-shape. The cleavage registered after only a quick glance,' she wrote."
Oh, dear me. Dearrie , dearrie me. Come to Australia! Women have breasts...and yes, cleavage. What a revelation.
Oh, dear me. Dearrie , dearrie me. Come to Australia! Women have breasts...and yes, cleavage. What a revelation.
Managers unhappy with Gen Y
Managers unhappy with Gen Y : "'So things like Google, where they can get information whenever they want, and eBay, where they can buy whatever they want whenever they want, and MySpace, has enabled them, has conditioned them to want things immediately.'"
I hate articles like this. There's not enough information.There has been a survey of 240 business managers who are apparently saying Gen Y is difficult to employ. The Internet is not the reason. Lots of us Google, Yahoo, MySpace, Live Journal and EBay. We do all sorts of things on the Net. Doesn't make us hard to employ. Gen Y has largely grown up with parents working long hours, parents who have given them everything, a curriculum which looks more like advanced kindergarten studies and yes, the Internet. They have grown up bodies and emotionally they are very young. A lot of them have been brought up as perfect children who are just so gifted and talented...and yet they have had the chance to choose what they want to learn...and that wasn't going to school, maths, science, literature. I think more than the Internet has shaped them into difficult employees. They also have been subject to branding, advertising, consumerism, money , money , money and they have been wooed into alcohol and drugs from a young age. I think we need to look at what they can offer and then how we can manage that. They are not all unreliable but their age group is under so much influence.
I hate articles like this. There's not enough information.There has been a survey of 240 business managers who are apparently saying Gen Y is difficult to employ. The Internet is not the reason. Lots of us Google, Yahoo, MySpace, Live Journal and EBay. We do all sorts of things on the Net. Doesn't make us hard to employ. Gen Y has largely grown up with parents working long hours, parents who have given them everything, a curriculum which looks more like advanced kindergarten studies and yes, the Internet. They have grown up bodies and emotionally they are very young. A lot of them have been brought up as perfect children who are just so gifted and talented...and yet they have had the chance to choose what they want to learn...and that wasn't going to school, maths, science, literature. I think more than the Internet has shaped them into difficult employees. They also have been subject to branding, advertising, consumerism, money , money , money and they have been wooed into alcohol and drugs from a young age. I think we need to look at what they can offer and then how we can manage that. They are not all unreliable but their age group is under so much influence.
Saturday, July 28, 2007
Astronauts 'drunk during missions'
Astronauts 'drunk during missions' : "NASA said: 'Both flight surgeons and astronauts identified some episodes of heavy use of alcohol by astronauts in the immediate preflight period which has led to flight safety concerns.''"
Astronauts behaving badly! I can see a few comedy sketches coming out of this. It is funny even though it's serious. There must be a lot of pressure on those astronauts and people seem to blot them selves out these days if they feel stressed. I know NASA will get to the bottom of it all. I know NASA will be very thorough and extremely methodical so that every bit of information is gleaned and then a proper process and protocol is put in place to help the stability of the astronauts and ensure safe conditions for everyone. Meanwhile I can't help but chortle. The bad behaviour is in safe hands.
Astronauts behaving badly! I can see a few comedy sketches coming out of this. It is funny even though it's serious. There must be a lot of pressure on those astronauts and people seem to blot them selves out these days if they feel stressed. I know NASA will get to the bottom of it all. I know NASA will be very thorough and extremely methodical so that every bit of information is gleaned and then a proper process and protocol is put in place to help the stability of the astronauts and ensure safe conditions for everyone. Meanwhile I can't help but chortle. The bad behaviour is in safe hands.
16kg of crystal meth found in marble tables
16kg of crystal meth found in marble tables : "TWO men have been charged with attempting to smuggle 16kg of the illicit drug ice into Australia hidden in two marble tables."
It's disgusting people are trying to bring that stuff into Australia because the heartache and agony it will cause are considerable. No one does that to another human being. No one. I am so glad our customs officials continue to be on the ball and I hope our governments around the world will continue to have the guts to confront those who would do us harm. I know they are hard and harsh, but if you really want to fight someone...then fight these people who are destroying our kids ...for money. Lifestyle. And what does it cost us?
It's disgusting people are trying to bring that stuff into Australia because the heartache and agony it will cause are considerable. No one does that to another human being. No one. I am so glad our customs officials continue to be on the ball and I hope our governments around the world will continue to have the guts to confront those who would do us harm. I know they are hard and harsh, but if you really want to fight someone...then fight these people who are destroying our kids ...for money. Lifestyle. And what does it cost us?
Bracks winds down the pace
Bracks winds down the pace : "The outgoing premier said today that he had enjoyed a good night's sleep after making his momentous decision and was now looking forward to a less frantic lifestyle."
No matter what he does now, Steve Bracks will be an asset to the community, any organisation or business he joins and to Australia. 8 years in the top job has had its costs but he has been very successful and Victoria is a stronger state because he was at the helm. It's really unfortunate that the climate is not such that Steve Bracks and people like him can stay in their positions. He is not alone in his decision. More and more competent Australians are just leaving their jobs, just like that, because the system is neither sustaining nor rewarding them. It's all too hard and that is how much we have changed.
No matter what he does now, Steve Bracks will be an asset to the community, any organisation or business he joins and to Australia. 8 years in the top job has had its costs but he has been very successful and Victoria is a stronger state because he was at the helm. It's really unfortunate that the climate is not such that Steve Bracks and people like him can stay in their positions. He is not alone in his decision. More and more competent Australians are just leaving their jobs, just like that, because the system is neither sustaining nor rewarding them. It's all too hard and that is how much we have changed.
Homesick Haneef wants to leave
Homesick Haneef wants to leave: "Mr Russo said Dr Haneef was keen to go home as soon he could - possibly as early as tonight - even if his work visa was reinstated."
I don't blame him. I am certain his friends and family in Bangalore will be of great help to him at this point in time. Once again our government has shown it is incapable of running high level security because they haven't got it right again. We have now had several of these investigations to find out what went wrong but, quite frankly, it's not good enough. It does not make us safe. It does not inspire confidence. It is humiliating and embarrassing for us because we are treating decent people very poorly. Worse than poorly. I am sorry Dr. Haneef has to leave us but I fully understand why. I would be doing the same myself. Pick a person, any person and just go for it. We are not like that. We were horrified when it happened and we are still deeply upset this has happened and from such a high level. We don't treat people like that.
I don't blame him. I am certain his friends and family in Bangalore will be of great help to him at this point in time. Once again our government has shown it is incapable of running high level security because they haven't got it right again. We have now had several of these investigations to find out what went wrong but, quite frankly, it's not good enough. It does not make us safe. It does not inspire confidence. It is humiliating and embarrassing for us because we are treating decent people very poorly. Worse than poorly. I am sorry Dr. Haneef has to leave us but I fully understand why. I would be doing the same myself. Pick a person, any person and just go for it. We are not like that. We were horrified when it happened and we are still deeply upset this has happened and from such a high level. We don't treat people like that.
Friday, July 27, 2007
Shirts
The Age Blogs: Suits You: "Why are men fussy about something as insignificant as a bit of fabric around the wrist?"French Cuff Shirt
I wish men would be fussy about their cuffs. What cuffs? As if they are even going to think about French cuffs or standards cuffs. I want to see that! T shirt, polo shirt, military shirt, checked shirt , striped shirt, blue shirt. That's it. Cuff links? I wish. Every so often you see a man in a wonderful subtle coloured silk shirt. I'd love to see Australian men get it together on the shirt front and button up...because it's about time they showed a bit of creativity and panache.
Rare Splendors
Cannabis smokers risk psychosis
Cannabis smokers risk psychosis : "“While the majority can take the drug with no mind-altering effects, it is estimated that 10 per cent are at risk. You only need to see one person whose mind has been altered and life irreparably damaged, or talk to their family, to realise that the headlines are not scaremongering but reflect a daily, and preventable, tragedy.”"
You have to wonder why we have a society which is so drug dependant. Generally drugs get you away from reality. So why do people need that? Why do they stay lost in it? If we have such a great society , why are people blotting themselves out? They give up being responsible for themselves. They are bailing out. Why? The impact on others and the drag it creates in society is significant because we are carrying this massive boulder through life with us each day. It means funds and expertise are going into areas which really could be avoided. This is a massive study across 35 countries and we have had cannabis use for long enough now to know what long term effects are. We have had people working with cannabis users to be able to come up with some decent , believable findings. What to do with it all and how to prevent it is the thing. We are not very healthy when we choose to opt out of life and a society which creates that kind of behaviour needs to be looked at.
You have to wonder why we have a society which is so drug dependant. Generally drugs get you away from reality. So why do people need that? Why do they stay lost in it? If we have such a great society , why are people blotting themselves out? They give up being responsible for themselves. They are bailing out. Why? The impact on others and the drag it creates in society is significant because we are carrying this massive boulder through life with us each day. It means funds and expertise are going into areas which really could be avoided. This is a massive study across 35 countries and we have had cannabis use for long enough now to know what long term effects are. We have had people working with cannabis users to be able to come up with some decent , believable findings. What to do with it all and how to prevent it is the thing. We are not very healthy when we choose to opt out of life and a society which creates that kind of behaviour needs to be looked at.
Thief battered in fish and chip shop raid
Thief battered in fish and chip shop raid : "The would-be thief demanded cash but the shopowner threw hot oil and fish batter at him.
'The hot oil missed but the batter hit the offender and he fled empty-handed,' a police spokeswoman said."
Hot, battered thief. Hilarious! Good thinking 99.
'The hot oil missed but the batter hit the offender and he fled empty-handed,' a police spokeswoman said."
Hot, battered thief. Hilarious! Good thinking 99.
Thursday, July 26, 2007
Graffiti charges second prize
AdelaideNow... Graffiti charges second prize: "Police dog Max searched the area and while he did not find the two responsible for the break-in, he found two men allegedly marking graffiti on a sports club building."
I love stories like this. It's almost like it's meant to be. They should have been at home asleep! Hopefully the ones who had broken into the cafe will be caught. Good reason to have more people living in the city. Eyes and ears!
I love stories like this. It's almost like it's meant to be. They should have been at home asleep! Hopefully the ones who had broken into the cafe will be caught. Good reason to have more people living in the city. Eyes and ears!
Lohan, Spears 'make mockery of rehab'
AdelaideNow... Lohan, Spears 'make mockery of rehab': "'In some ways it's starting to make rehabs look like a joke and that's very sad because hundreds of thousands of people a year are saved.'"
Well, no, the rehabs are hardly a problem if they are actually rehabilitating so many people. It's not the rehabs. The stars are not actually staying there to benefit from the programmes and so they have not been rehabilitated. They are in denial and not yet ready to face their truth, which is a bit unfortunate. It means they are really not in control and it also means their pulling power as high profile people cannot be used to better the lives of the people who have made them stars. It also tends to suggest that they are not at all coping with their high profile status. Addiction is a great leveller. It doesn't care who you are. If it's got you and you are one of the 10 percent who really is an addict, then it boils down to whether you can follow through on a programme to help you or whether you choose to let addiction do what it does so well.
Well, no, the rehabs are hardly a problem if they are actually rehabilitating so many people. It's not the rehabs. The stars are not actually staying there to benefit from the programmes and so they have not been rehabilitated. They are in denial and not yet ready to face their truth, which is a bit unfortunate. It means they are really not in control and it also means their pulling power as high profile people cannot be used to better the lives of the people who have made them stars. It also tends to suggest that they are not at all coping with their high profile status. Addiction is a great leveller. It doesn't care who you are. If it's got you and you are one of the 10 percent who really is an addict, then it boils down to whether you can follow through on a programme to help you or whether you choose to let addiction do what it does so well.
Blasts hit Tour de France
AdelaideNow... Blasts hit Tour de France: "The Tour, in its final week, was plunged in controversy after pre-race favourite Alexander Vinokourov tested positive for blood doping."
The Tour de France has been spectacular viewing this year. The scenery. The riders. I feel really sorry for those riders who love the sport. I feel really sorry for those cyclists who get out there to be the best cyclist in such a race. They are having to put up with a constant onslaught of discredit brought upon them through people doing the wrong thing and now they are coming under attack. Who would benefit from stuffing up the Tour de France? If you damage it, what have we lost? The Tour Down Under has been inspired by the Tour de France and a lot of people get back into cycling because of the impact of such races. It's a situation where you really hope that good principles and practice will overcome adversity.
The Tour de France has been spectacular viewing this year. The scenery. The riders. I feel really sorry for those riders who love the sport. I feel really sorry for those cyclists who get out there to be the best cyclist in such a race. They are having to put up with a constant onslaught of discredit brought upon them through people doing the wrong thing and now they are coming under attack. Who would benefit from stuffing up the Tour de France? If you damage it, what have we lost? The Tour Down Under has been inspired by the Tour de France and a lot of people get back into cycling because of the impact of such races. It's a situation where you really hope that good principles and practice will overcome adversity.
Wednesday, July 25, 2007
Wealthy elite 'taking over' capital cities
Wealthy elite 'taking over' capital cities : "The CCCM deplores what it sees as an increasing gap between families who can afford to buy a home and profit from its capital growth, and those who struggle to afford any sort of housing."
A number of things have changed in Australia and they have all been towards providing for the wealthy and providing more money for the wealthy. It is about shares, investments, property, jobs, education. The effects of these changes are now coming into play and they will not be heard because it is the purpose of our economy. We are not a society any more. We are about productivity and profit. Most big cities are for the wealthy and now Australia has joined that trend. Most wealthy people own properties overseas and others rent and if they cannot they live in poor or no accommodation. We now have that type of country because we have been working towards it. Our cites used to be for everyone. Now they are becoming international cities so they cater to a certain clientele. The difficulty with us sprawling out is we are destroying our land and we haven't yet got the hospital, education and transport infrastructure to cater to sprawling urban development so those living further out will be disadvantaged until we create some equity in access to facilities and jobs. We cannot go back but we can decide how we want to go forward.
A number of things have changed in Australia and they have all been towards providing for the wealthy and providing more money for the wealthy. It is about shares, investments, property, jobs, education. The effects of these changes are now coming into play and they will not be heard because it is the purpose of our economy. We are not a society any more. We are about productivity and profit. Most big cities are for the wealthy and now Australia has joined that trend. Most wealthy people own properties overseas and others rent and if they cannot they live in poor or no accommodation. We now have that type of country because we have been working towards it. Our cites used to be for everyone. Now they are becoming international cities so they cater to a certain clientele. The difficulty with us sprawling out is we are destroying our land and we haven't yet got the hospital, education and transport infrastructure to cater to sprawling urban development so those living further out will be disadvantaged until we create some equity in access to facilities and jobs. We cannot go back but we can decide how we want to go forward.
Innocence kept us alive - freed medics
AdelaideNow... Innocence kept us alive - freed medics: "'In the coming days I will try to learn how to be free. Thank God it is over. I hope to start my life anew,'' the nurse, also aged 48, said on Bulgarian television station bTV in an exclusive interview."
This is an incredibly moving story. It was on our news this morning when I got up and I couldn't help but be touched. The radio report was very compassionate and enlightening. Without over doing it, it was explaining to us just how much these people had suffered. The most moving part was when they spoke of how the Bulgarian people themselves had reacted to the news and quietly and strongly supported these people and the news of their release. They are going to be nurtured very carefully.
This is an incredibly moving story. It was on our news this morning when I got up and I couldn't help but be touched. The radio report was very compassionate and enlightening. Without over doing it, it was explaining to us just how much these people had suffered. The most moving part was when they spoke of how the Bulgarian people themselves had reacted to the news and quietly and strongly supported these people and the news of their release. They are going to be nurtured very carefully.
Telstra employee jailed over mobile thefts
AdelaideNow... Telstra employee jailed over mobile thefts: "A TELSTRA employee stole more than $90,000 worth of mobile phones to feed his drinking and gambling addiction, a court has been told."
Unfortunately it's a vicious circle and it would be very difficult to be employing such people and then so hard for the employee to be able to deal with their own behaviour. The community then has to remedy it in some way...so it is lose, lose, lose. It'll make it difficult for others to become employed but for as long as addiction lasts we are just going to have to front up and deal with it as a team. Addiction is an illness and has to be managed as such the same as any other debilitating illness.
Unfortunately it's a vicious circle and it would be very difficult to be employing such people and then so hard for the employee to be able to deal with their own behaviour. The community then has to remedy it in some way...so it is lose, lose, lose. It'll make it difficult for others to become employed but for as long as addiction lasts we are just going to have to front up and deal with it as a team. Addiction is an illness and has to be managed as such the same as any other debilitating illness.
Wii workout on gym schedule
AdelaideNow... Wii workout on gym schedule: "Studeo 55 in Vancouver has incorporated a Nintendo Wii workout station into circuit training where users can punch, run and jump with the system's movement-sensitive controller."
My daughter was using a Playstation exercise programme and she loved it and it really gave her a good workout and made a difference when she couldn't get to a gym. If gyms start using these sorts of electronic programmes they will probably be surprised how popular they become because people seem to be attuned to them. The Wii interactive stuff is very popular around Adelaide and certainly has high appeal to young ones. If gyms get people involved , there will soon be a wider uptake and then some of our obesity , flatbumming problems will be solved! We have this modern gadgetry, we need to really develop its potential for all of us.
My daughter was using a Playstation exercise programme and she loved it and it really gave her a good workout and made a difference when she couldn't get to a gym. If gyms start using these sorts of electronic programmes they will probably be surprised how popular they become because people seem to be attuned to them. The Wii interactive stuff is very popular around Adelaide and certainly has high appeal to young ones. If gyms get people involved , there will soon be a wider uptake and then some of our obesity , flatbumming problems will be solved! We have this modern gadgetry, we need to really develop its potential for all of us.
Tuesday, July 24, 2007
Truffles to France like ice to Eskimos
AdelaideNow... Truffles to France like ice to Eskimos: "Without a truffle culture, Australians, including some chefs, need to be educated about the delights of the truffle, Mr Edwards said."
Indeed, indeed. But this is where our French connection will come in handy. They will help us appreciate their capacity to use truffles to enhance dishes. I actually like to see different cultures teaching each other their best of. I think it makes for a strong line of tradition and in the case of crops being destroyed through global warming events, we can still sustain the fine things in life. We didn't used to eat a lot of things, but we have become more adventurous and we are really enjoying our gastronomic adventures here.
Indeed, indeed. But this is where our French connection will come in handy. They will help us appreciate their capacity to use truffles to enhance dishes. I actually like to see different cultures teaching each other their best of. I think it makes for a strong line of tradition and in the case of crops being destroyed through global warming events, we can still sustain the fine things in life. We didn't used to eat a lot of things, but we have become more adventurous and we are really enjoying our gastronomic adventures here.
Feeling sick? Call the hotline
AdelaideNow... Feeling sick? Call the hotline: "'If you've got a health problem which is concerning you, you can ring the same number anywhere in Australia, 24 hours a day, seven days a week and get reliable advice from trained health staff on what your options are and what you should initially do,'' Mr Abbott said."
I think this is a great idea. It would help a lot of people just run ideas and symptoms past a trained professional to get a decent plan of action. We have often left it too late because we are aware of the doctor shortage and the sorts of really serious illnesses out there. It would be particularly useful when you have something and you aren't quite sure. I hope they get an internet site going to with a chat function. That could help. Some people like to tough it out an some people are just not clear about what needs medical attention. It's a great idea and the hotline will probably be kept busy and it may well need to be expanded! As it grows it will probably become worth its weight in gold in this day and age.
I think this is a great idea. It would help a lot of people just run ideas and symptoms past a trained professional to get a decent plan of action. We have often left it too late because we are aware of the doctor shortage and the sorts of really serious illnesses out there. It would be particularly useful when you have something and you aren't quite sure. I hope they get an internet site going to with a chat function. That could help. Some people like to tough it out an some people are just not clear about what needs medical attention. It's a great idea and the hotline will probably be kept busy and it may well need to be expanded! As it grows it will probably become worth its weight in gold in this day and age.
Half of all mental illness carers also suffer
Half of all mental illness carers also suffer: survey : "'Over 50 per cent of people caring for a family member with a mental illness report much worse physical and mental health themselves, because of the lack of support they receive in that role,' he said."
families with people with mental illness do suffer. It's not just the lack of support. It's the constant, ongoing pressure of dealing with the illness...the moods, the medication, the erratic behaviour, the lack of behaviour. Mental illness is not a constant. Families members can be confronted with all sorts of behaviours on a daily basis and sometimes they are totally locked out of the process because it's between the consumer and the medical support. So they then have to operate as a fall back family member when the system is not there and then become tied up either in silence and lack of information or complete exclusion because of privacy and advocacy protocol. The family members are often there when no one else is. They are often the ones who can bring the person back to some sort of normality. It is worse when the consumer is dealing with a number of different medical professionals and it difficult when they are told their experience and knowledge is no relevant or wanted. It is a very difficult balancing act because sometimes the consumer just needs to be away from everyone and everything but that then means the family has no contact and is left. It has improved because people in general are getting a better understanding of mental illness and what that might mean. That's thanks to sites like SANE, Reach out and Beyond Blue. The more we talk and look at tit the better we shall get...because it is a community issue and something we need to work on together as a team.
families with people with mental illness do suffer. It's not just the lack of support. It's the constant, ongoing pressure of dealing with the illness...the moods, the medication, the erratic behaviour, the lack of behaviour. Mental illness is not a constant. Families members can be confronted with all sorts of behaviours on a daily basis and sometimes they are totally locked out of the process because it's between the consumer and the medical support. So they then have to operate as a fall back family member when the system is not there and then become tied up either in silence and lack of information or complete exclusion because of privacy and advocacy protocol. The family members are often there when no one else is. They are often the ones who can bring the person back to some sort of normality. It is worse when the consumer is dealing with a number of different medical professionals and it difficult when they are told their experience and knowledge is no relevant or wanted. It is a very difficult balancing act because sometimes the consumer just needs to be away from everyone and everything but that then means the family has no contact and is left. It has improved because people in general are getting a better understanding of mental illness and what that might mean. That's thanks to sites like SANE, Reach out and Beyond Blue. The more we talk and look at tit the better we shall get...because it is a community issue and something we need to work on together as a team.
Circumcision cuts HIV/AIDS risk by 60pc
Circumcision cuts HIV/AIDS risk by 60pc : "'The last two [trials] were actually stopped early because they showed such a high level of efficacy, that it wouldn't be ethical to continue the trial and withhold circumcision from the control group,' he said."
Biblically speaking, circumcision was about upholding the covenant with God. Medically speaking in 2007 it seems it will prevent so much heart break. It is astounding how much it can affect the transfer of AIDS. The article says it will be challenging to change cultural and governmental beliefs. I think the figures speak for themselves and that common sense must prevail. People do change their cultural habits in the light of new knowledge and no, it's not easy, but keeping people alive to perpetuate the culture has to be important, surely?
Biblically speaking, circumcision was about upholding the covenant with God. Medically speaking in 2007 it seems it will prevent so much heart break. It is astounding how much it can affect the transfer of AIDS. The article says it will be challenging to change cultural and governmental beliefs. I think the figures speak for themselves and that common sense must prevail. People do change their cultural habits in the light of new knowledge and no, it's not easy, but keeping people alive to perpetuate the culture has to be important, surely?
Monday, July 23, 2007
Shark attack victim 'glad it was him'
Shark attack victim 'glad it was him' : "'If I didn't punch it, then I would have lost my leg and if it got my brother then he probably would have died, which is a lot worse.'"
The dive instructor thinks it may have been a barracuda rather than a shark. In any case, the parents of 15 year old Angus Chapman would have to be so very proud of him. He is such a capable and clear thinking child under extreme pressure. The fact he had the presence of mind to just act and give the shark a good wallop,then know he needed a tourniquet and through out all of that have his heart firmly centred on the safety of his little brother is quite something. His spirit needs to be bottled. What a kid!!
The dive instructor thinks it may have been a barracuda rather than a shark. In any case, the parents of 15 year old Angus Chapman would have to be so very proud of him. He is such a capable and clear thinking child under extreme pressure. The fact he had the presence of mind to just act and give the shark a good wallop,then know he needed a tourniquet and through out all of that have his heart firmly centred on the safety of his little brother is quite something. His spirit needs to be bottled. What a kid!!
Search on for Adelaide hit-run driver
Search on for Adelaide hit-run driver : "'The driver of the Camry was ejected from the vehicle as a result of the collision and was left to lie on the road - a very despicable act,' he said."
This is not the first time this has happened and I don't suppose it will be the last. As drivers we do have a duty of care to provide assistance to anyone who is injured. I think we need an easy to follow protocol which becomes jingoistic..like the "If you drink, don't drive" campaign. We need something straight forward and manageable because I doubt people actually intend to leave someone in dire straights. It would seem they simply do not have the courage to front up and deal with it and it often seems to be with loan drivers. When there are more people then the peer pressure kicks in and the moral support and conscience are there. So we need to put that in with a well known and familiar protocol. The very least people can do is ring an ambulance. Fear obviously plays a big role. For all our judgment of the ones who walk off, we are in no better position to work out how to stop that behaviour because it is costing people their lives and creating some severe injuries and trauma. We have to understand the behaviour so we can fix it. The truck driver will turn up. I doubt he will be able to deal with it when he comes to. Given it's a truck, it'll probably be easily located.
This is not the first time this has happened and I don't suppose it will be the last. As drivers we do have a duty of care to provide assistance to anyone who is injured. I think we need an easy to follow protocol which becomes jingoistic..like the "If you drink, don't drive" campaign. We need something straight forward and manageable because I doubt people actually intend to leave someone in dire straights. It would seem they simply do not have the courage to front up and deal with it and it often seems to be with loan drivers. When there are more people then the peer pressure kicks in and the moral support and conscience are there. So we need to put that in with a well known and familiar protocol. The very least people can do is ring an ambulance. Fear obviously plays a big role. For all our judgment of the ones who walk off, we are in no better position to work out how to stop that behaviour because it is costing people their lives and creating some severe injuries and trauma. We have to understand the behaviour so we can fix it. The truck driver will turn up. I doubt he will be able to deal with it when he comes to. Given it's a truck, it'll probably be easily located.
Web networkers 'at risk of fraud'
Web networkers 'at risk of fraud': "'More and more consumers are signing up to these sites every day and chances are they'll put on their date of birth, location, e-mail, job and marital status.
'Fraudsters can use this information to steal an individual's identity and open accounts in their name.'"
Yes, it's a bit unfortunate that what we do in terms of good practice as human beings is scouted and rerouted by the unscrupulous. It's actually really tiresome living in a world where just being your average citizen means you are being played for a sucker all the time. And the truth is, most people are not like that, but there are these opportunistic few who exploit everything. They really push it to the limit and that , in turn, impacts on the very trust we need to have to operate as happy, functional people. I want a scammer monitor. I know that's supposed to be my firewall...and I actually have to thank Feedburner because it does pick up lurkers quite well, as does StatCounter. We were talking at work today whether the investment in technology has been worth it and that no matter what we do we cannot get accuracy anymore because of the complexity of meshing programmes and network. The same with the Internet. A lot of it runs on goodwill...but then there are people looking for the rip off loopholes.Bugga them.
'Fraudsters can use this information to steal an individual's identity and open accounts in their name.'"
Yes, it's a bit unfortunate that what we do in terms of good practice as human beings is scouted and rerouted by the unscrupulous. It's actually really tiresome living in a world where just being your average citizen means you are being played for a sucker all the time. And the truth is, most people are not like that, but there are these opportunistic few who exploit everything. They really push it to the limit and that , in turn, impacts on the very trust we need to have to operate as happy, functional people. I want a scammer monitor. I know that's supposed to be my firewall...and I actually have to thank Feedburner because it does pick up lurkers quite well, as does StatCounter. We were talking at work today whether the investment in technology has been worth it and that no matter what we do we cannot get accuracy anymore because of the complexity of meshing programmes and network. The same with the Internet. A lot of it runs on goodwill...but then there are people looking for the rip off loopholes.Bugga them.
'Work four years, get one off'
'Work four years, get one off' : "The generous working arrangements are only three in a raft of flexible policies the bank has pioneered since January in a bid to recruit and retain quality people in its army of more than 9000 staff."
The workplace relations at the St. Georges bank would have to improve with conditions like these. They are very enlightened. It is important to keep reliable staff. It is equally important for people to have some flexibility at the different stages of their life. Parents really are under pressure when it comes to working and then providing adequate supervision and support for their children. It's worse when they are little or they get sick. It is also important to be able to walk away form working, take a break and come back refreshed. You do work better. Good workers often have very busy lives where they are doing all sorts of useful things and this needs to be accepted and worked into paid work conditions because it enables our communities to thrive. Happy workers will put in and give it their best.
The workplace relations at the St. Georges bank would have to improve with conditions like these. They are very enlightened. It is important to keep reliable staff. It is equally important for people to have some flexibility at the different stages of their life. Parents really are under pressure when it comes to working and then providing adequate supervision and support for their children. It's worse when they are little or they get sick. It is also important to be able to walk away form working, take a break and come back refreshed. You do work better. Good workers often have very busy lives where they are doing all sorts of useful things and this needs to be accepted and worked into paid work conditions because it enables our communities to thrive. Happy workers will put in and give it their best.
Sunday, July 22, 2007
Wattpad
Wattpad - Download: "Go to m.wattpad.com on your phone's web browser and follow the link to download Wattpad Reader. It's free! Start reading and sharing stories on your mobile phone!"It really is that easy whether you connect with Wattpad on your mobile or load the files with a data cable from your PC. I do not have a state of the art phone but I can still download stories, recipes, health info, funny stuff to read. You can chose your text and back ground settings, you can navigate really easily with the * # and cursor keys. There are lots of categories and lots of languages so it really does amplify the use of mobile technology. This is a site which is really showing the possibilities of what a mobile can do and if a techno noddy like I can do it, I am sure you can. Please check it out and give it a whirl.
Lawnmower thief up a tree
AdelaideNow... Lawnmower thief up a tree: "He was one of three men spotted by police wheeling shopping trolleys containing new lawn mowers on Morphett Rd, Oaklands Park, just after 4am."The Australian Galah
Silly sod. Nice and obvious...and obviously heavily disguised as a galah hiding up a tree, indeed! They haven't caught all the men and they've recovered 8 lawnmowers. I gather we have become rather proud of our gardens if lawnmowers are the in thing. Must be all that rain.
250 children homeless in SA
AdelaideNow... 250 children homeless in SA: "He said a housing summit would be held next month involving developers, community groups and councils."
No one should be homeless in Adelaide and no child should be going to school from a car. I know, I know we have some people who are drug dependent and it means their lives have hit the wall. It will achieve nothing if we ignore them and especially their children. As for living in a caravan, which is disapproved of in this article, well, I have friends who brought up 2 children in their high school years in a long term caravan park. The freewheeling, relaxed lifestyle helped repair the wounds of their respective broken marriages as they saved for a home of their own. The kids were well cared for and had a lovely life. The two adults used their network to gain the support they needed at times but they also had a good chance to think about what they wanted without the pressures of money, mortgages and the financial trappings of a permanent home. They moved out into a beautiful place and completely renovated it and their children have since married and have families of their own. The housing summit is both essential and desirable at this point in time.
No one should be homeless in Adelaide and no child should be going to school from a car. I know, I know we have some people who are drug dependent and it means their lives have hit the wall. It will achieve nothing if we ignore them and especially their children. As for living in a caravan, which is disapproved of in this article, well, I have friends who brought up 2 children in their high school years in a long term caravan park. The freewheeling, relaxed lifestyle helped repair the wounds of their respective broken marriages as they saved for a home of their own. The kids were well cared for and had a lovely life. The two adults used their network to gain the support they needed at times but they also had a good chance to think about what they wanted without the pressures of money, mortgages and the financial trappings of a permanent home. They moved out into a beautiful place and completely renovated it and their children have since married and have families of their own. The housing summit is both essential and desirable at this point in time.
Most workers bullied, survey says
Most workers bullied, survey says : "The survey of 1,500 people by CareerOne.com also showed women were bullied more than men, and 71 per cent of people dreaded going to work."
Bosses, line managers, superiors are in a position of privilege, but they are also in a position to abuse their power and emotional abuse is very difficult to define and prove...which is why it's such an effective form of abuse. It is the victim who looks so stupid all the time and cannot provide sound evidence about the abuse. It's about undermining people, diminishing them, misrepresenting the truth. People in Austrlia just haven't cottoned on to this , so bosses can get away with it. They can ask people to justify themselves and their working methods. They can ask people to prove why they should be the person doing that job. They can organise things and then leave people in the lurch so they are at the coal face without adequate knowledge of what has to happen. They can sack people, transfer them and then create fear. They can be unavailable at crucial times. They can overlook ordering what needs to be ordered or slow down the process so the pressure is on the individuals further down. They can ask for meetings and demand people work in their family time and expect people to attend who knows what and then they have no home life or no other life. It's all about emotional pressure and it's all about making people feel inadequate and insecure. We used to have very good workplace relations and a safety zone for workers. Bosses who are unscrupulous are not stupid. They are not going to do the obvious. It is all very subtle and it needs to be considered very carefully because the atmosphere has really changed in the workplace. Before we were very open and straightforward. I guess it's the difference between administration and leadership.
Bosses, line managers, superiors are in a position of privilege, but they are also in a position to abuse their power and emotional abuse is very difficult to define and prove...which is why it's such an effective form of abuse. It is the victim who looks so stupid all the time and cannot provide sound evidence about the abuse. It's about undermining people, diminishing them, misrepresenting the truth. People in Austrlia just haven't cottoned on to this , so bosses can get away with it. They can ask people to justify themselves and their working methods. They can ask people to prove why they should be the person doing that job. They can organise things and then leave people in the lurch so they are at the coal face without adequate knowledge of what has to happen. They can sack people, transfer them and then create fear. They can be unavailable at crucial times. They can overlook ordering what needs to be ordered or slow down the process so the pressure is on the individuals further down. They can ask for meetings and demand people work in their family time and expect people to attend who knows what and then they have no home life or no other life. It's all about emotional pressure and it's all about making people feel inadequate and insecure. We used to have very good workplace relations and a safety zone for workers. Bosses who are unscrupulous are not stupid. They are not going to do the obvious. It is all very subtle and it needs to be considered very carefully because the atmosphere has really changed in the workplace. Before we were very open and straightforward. I guess it's the difference between administration and leadership.
Saturday, July 21, 2007
Beyond Mombasa
While everyone else has been waiting to lose themselves in spellbinding Potterworld...I have been lost in Africa again. Frank Coates is an Australian author whom I have decided I really like. I cannot wait for his next book to come out. I read his first book The Tears of the Maasai and blogged about that over summer. That was a very moving story. Beyond Mombasa is different. It is set in the 1800s and looks at the British building a major train line through the demanding African countryside and the cost to locals, immigrants, the train line workers. It's about the country, the times, systems and bureaucracies and then about pioneering and the profound impact major change has on those involved. I didn't find it as gripping as the first but it is based on a true story, so I found it a compelling and informative read. He knows how to keep you absorbed and he knows how to teach you as his tale unfolds. I really did enjoy it.
Electronic Birth Simulators
Delivery for Dummies: Simulators Walk Docs Through Childbirth: "A new generation of complex, electronic birth simulators are allowing medical students to practice labor and birth -- especially when there are complications."
Got this via Wired and the mind boggles. Move over Barbie! Barbie for grown ups! Given our capacity to be technical has increased dramatically, then we should be able to simulate lots of things...and I don't think I'll think about it. It is a great idea. It is hands on practice without the possibility of doing harm. It's quite a few steps ahead of the CPR dummies...advanced dummy training. I am certain they will become more lifelike, that they will become more complex and they will save lives and minimise trauma in difficlut situations...but seriously, whatever next?? The site has some informative pictures.
Got this via Wired and the mind boggles. Move over Barbie! Barbie for grown ups! Given our capacity to be technical has increased dramatically, then we should be able to simulate lots of things...and I don't think I'll think about it. It is a great idea. It is hands on practice without the possibility of doing harm. It's quite a few steps ahead of the CPR dummies...advanced dummy training. I am certain they will become more lifelike, that they will become more complex and they will save lives and minimise trauma in difficlut situations...but seriously, whatever next?? The site has some informative pictures.
The priministerial YouTube experience
Lost in cyber-flaming hell : "What Howard had entered — directly for the first time, although his name and image have been used in vain on the internet for years — was a world dominated by what Campbell terms 'unaccountability'."
Dr. Campbell calls it "online loss of inhibition" and it's actually good to know we have cyber psychologists because they will help us determine what we are prepared to accept.The article takes a good, long look at some of the implications of posting online and the sorts of behaviours likely to be encountered. Flaming has been around for a very long time. The media has just found out about it. Most forums and community sites manage flaming and the rules are spelled out quite clearly about respect for others. Some people think freedom of speech is saying what they like , when they like, how they like and with no regard for implications and responsibility. That is a very post modern approach which has its place, I suppose, but the impact of negative is negative. No surprises there. I do not personally believe that John Howard should not have posted on YouTube. I think our politicians need to understand how social networking operates in cyberspace and the only way to do that is to try it. There is a lot of good stuff on YouTube and similar sites but it hasn't really yet reached the stage of growth where the posts tend to find their own communities. Allowing destructive elements airplay helps destroy icons and who will benefit from that? That's why we need psychologists because there is a protocol and it is about power. This is why other sites put in very clear guidelines. By participating in cyberspace, our politicians will learn how it works and there are a lot of connections to be made there. It's not foolish to test new ground. Experience is a great teacher and sites like YouTube teach you very quickly what you are prepared to accept and what you want to change.
Dr. Campbell calls it "online loss of inhibition" and it's actually good to know we have cyber psychologists because they will help us determine what we are prepared to accept.The article takes a good, long look at some of the implications of posting online and the sorts of behaviours likely to be encountered. Flaming has been around for a very long time. The media has just found out about it. Most forums and community sites manage flaming and the rules are spelled out quite clearly about respect for others. Some people think freedom of speech is saying what they like , when they like, how they like and with no regard for implications and responsibility. That is a very post modern approach which has its place, I suppose, but the impact of negative is negative. No surprises there. I do not personally believe that John Howard should not have posted on YouTube. I think our politicians need to understand how social networking operates in cyberspace and the only way to do that is to try it. There is a lot of good stuff on YouTube and similar sites but it hasn't really yet reached the stage of growth where the posts tend to find their own communities. Allowing destructive elements airplay helps destroy icons and who will benefit from that? That's why we need psychologists because there is a protocol and it is about power. This is why other sites put in very clear guidelines. By participating in cyberspace, our politicians will learn how it works and there are a lot of connections to be made there. It's not foolish to test new ground. Experience is a great teacher and sites like YouTube teach you very quickly what you are prepared to accept and what you want to change.
Charles gives Camilla sheep for birthday
Charles gives Camilla sheep for birthday :"'Camilla is, in fact, absolutely chuffed to bits.''"
Sounds like my friend. She has a small property which she loves and her husband regularly buys her surprise presents like this...including a sheep! He has also bought her a peacock and a pea hen and curly feathered chickens which lay half sized blue eggs. They also have dusks, doves, quail, fish. She just loves her livestock presents and brings them very quickly into her heart and fold. Charles is renowned for his commitment to high quality , organic farming and so it's good he has a wife who is equally dotty about animals. I wonder if they can spin the wool and be like my other friend who knitted her husband a jumper from the wool spun form their sheepdog! It made him so hot he could hardly wear it for any length of time.
Friday, July 20, 2007
A dry mouth needs investigation
A dry mouth needs investigation : "You appear to have ruled out two of the more common causes for the salivary glands not producing the standard 1.5 litres of saliva a day."
1.5 litres of saliva a day? We produce that much? Maybe we don't have to drink our 8 glasses of water now. What slobber chops we are!
1.5 litres of saliva a day? We produce that much? Maybe we don't have to drink our 8 glasses of water now. What slobber chops we are!
Warning on meat and gases
Warning on meat and gases: "The calculations, which are based on standard industrial methods of meat production in Japan, did not include the impact of managing farm infrastructure and transporting the meat, so the total environmental load is higher than the study suggests."
That's the bit which needs to be established. Poor cows can't help having methane in their guts. That's what cows are...methane producers and we all know that. Cattle have been farmed forever and have produced all sorts of things we have needed as human beings. Industrial farming does cause a lot of extra use of electricity and things we do not need. Nature has provided us with so much and so in terms of the ecosystem cattle will have their part to play. Costing them is like costing the child you bring up. They cost...but...money isn't really everything.
That's the bit which needs to be established. Poor cows can't help having methane in their guts. That's what cows are...methane producers and we all know that. Cattle have been farmed forever and have produced all sorts of things we have needed as human beings. Industrial farming does cause a lot of extra use of electricity and things we do not need. Nature has provided us with so much and so in terms of the ecosystem cattle will have their part to play. Costing them is like costing the child you bring up. They cost...but...money isn't really everything.
Virtual friends 'beats real socialising'
Virtual friends 'beats real socialising' : "Half of all broadband users logon to social networking sites such as Facebook, MySpace and MSN Messenger, the price comparison and switching service uSwitch.com found."
Even though the article refers to the UK , I don't think its findings are confined to there. Social networking seems to be the in thing and it's not surprising it has overtaken all sorts of Net activities because with things like Twitter it becomes addictive. It's a way of breaking out of the routine and getting in contact with people because your work hours are so long. It is how a lot of people are managing long, busy days and keeping social contact . If virtual friends are more appealing it's probably because you don't have to carry the baggage which can come with friendships and there isn't the time commitment. It also means people can make friends anywhere and that has to be a bonus for isolated people or people who do not easily make friends. On the Net you can adopt a persona. It is virtual reality. I guess it serves a lot of needs but it is also breaking barriers and getting us to really think about what we value. Personally, I value my Net contacts, but I really like to know people in real life.
Even though the article refers to the UK , I don't think its findings are confined to there. Social networking seems to be the in thing and it's not surprising it has overtaken all sorts of Net activities because with things like Twitter it becomes addictive. It's a way of breaking out of the routine and getting in contact with people because your work hours are so long. It is how a lot of people are managing long, busy days and keeping social contact . If virtual friends are more appealing it's probably because you don't have to carry the baggage which can come with friendships and there isn't the time commitment. It also means people can make friends anywhere and that has to be a bonus for isolated people or people who do not easily make friends. On the Net you can adopt a persona. It is virtual reality. I guess it serves a lot of needs but it is also breaking barriers and getting us to really think about what we value. Personally, I value my Net contacts, but I really like to know people in real life.
COW - Programming for Bovines
COW - Programming for Bovines: "NOTICE: Bovine Programming Research has contributed a revolutionary new extension to COW they are calling Distributed Digestion eXtentions (DDX)."Something for the coders, but I thought it was funny, so you don't actually have to be a coder to understand the humour in this. It's C++ programming to speak to cows. Variations on Moo, because that is all they know!Alex van Oostenrijk and Martijn van Beek have also written a paper to show COW is Turing complete, whatever that means...and there are some other links here which you can follow up. Brains and creativity. Fantastic!
Thursday, July 19, 2007
Climate campaigner takes plunge
Climate campaigner takes plunge : "Clad only in his Speedos, cap and goggles, as required by the rules of the Channel Swimming Association - which forbid any buoyancy aids, swimming caps that offer any thermal protection or trunks cut above crotch level - Mr Pugh spent just under 19 agonising minutes in the melted sea ice"
Rather him than me. What a trooper! Apparently we could not have done that 20 years ago...no, we couldn't have and aren't we glad! Hope he had lots of hot Milo and Tim Tams after.
Rather him than me. What a trooper! Apparently we could not have done that 20 years ago...no, we couldn't have and aren't we glad! Hope he had lots of hot Milo and Tim Tams after.
Teen killers double in 12 months
Teen killers double in 12 months : "National homicide figures released by the Australian Institute of Criminology yesterday showed 57 males aged between 15 and 19 committed homicides in 2005-06, compared with just 22 in the previous year."
Punching. Kicking. Knives. Where are those ideas coming from? The number of females killed rose from 87 to 113. So what is it with the boys? There is a story today about some young men trying to push another young man in front of a train in Melbourne. They have footage of the two of them looking for him on the platforms. It started with an argument between the two and the man's friends. Fortunately people at the station hauled him up to safety. It's not confined to Australia, of course. In Berlin one of our SA tourists has been stabbed 5 times because of some sort of argument outside a fast food shop. Then there was a gun scare at a primary school in Sydney today. The man had a gun and the children were locked in their classes until the police could catch him. And numerous other stories about people killing or trying to kill each other.
The saddest one of all, and our hearts go out to the friends and family of Police Constable Brett Irwin who was shot in Queensland today, was because he went to make a check on someone who had breached his bail conditions. The man wasn't supposed to be dangerous, but I think that will be cold comfort for Constable Irwin's friends and family.
We are going to have to haul together as a team and community here. Truly. No point in telling me the police are bad. I have met two and yes, they were pretty bad. But the heaps of others I have met and that I read about every day are trying to help keep us safe...and then a Constable Irwin goes to check on something routine and his family and friends must now mourn his loss. We need to do something about people who just kill people. They argue and then think killing is all right. They get it wrong and then killing is all right. We are becoming the unsuspecting. There are so many of us who are good and who are being held hostage by the few who are so extreme and crazy. They really are. We need to change that behaviour and it is something we all have to participate in. We also need to continue to help and support the police because they are getting more successes than failures. But we also need to remind the police to look after themselves. Nothing is routine any more. Nothing. There were things we could take for granted. Now we cannot and what changed that?
Punching. Kicking. Knives. Where are those ideas coming from? The number of females killed rose from 87 to 113. So what is it with the boys? There is a story today about some young men trying to push another young man in front of a train in Melbourne. They have footage of the two of them looking for him on the platforms. It started with an argument between the two and the man's friends. Fortunately people at the station hauled him up to safety. It's not confined to Australia, of course. In Berlin one of our SA tourists has been stabbed 5 times because of some sort of argument outside a fast food shop. Then there was a gun scare at a primary school in Sydney today. The man had a gun and the children were locked in their classes until the police could catch him. And numerous other stories about people killing or trying to kill each other.
The saddest one of all, and our hearts go out to the friends and family of Police Constable Brett Irwin who was shot in Queensland today, was because he went to make a check on someone who had breached his bail conditions. The man wasn't supposed to be dangerous, but I think that will be cold comfort for Constable Irwin's friends and family.
We are going to have to haul together as a team and community here. Truly. No point in telling me the police are bad. I have met two and yes, they were pretty bad. But the heaps of others I have met and that I read about every day are trying to help keep us safe...and then a Constable Irwin goes to check on something routine and his family and friends must now mourn his loss. We need to do something about people who just kill people. They argue and then think killing is all right. They get it wrong and then killing is all right. We are becoming the unsuspecting. There are so many of us who are good and who are being held hostage by the few who are so extreme and crazy. They really are. We need to change that behaviour and it is something we all have to participate in. We also need to continue to help and support the police because they are getting more successes than failures. But we also need to remind the police to look after themselves. Nothing is routine any more. Nothing. There were things we could take for granted. Now we cannot and what changed that?
How A Laydee showed that First Impressions really are misleading
How A Laydee showed that First Impressions really are misleading : "But what really astonished David Lassman was that only one of 18 publishers and literary agents recognised her work when it was submitted to them under a false name."
Bit bad when Jane Austen can't even get a look in. Worse when she is not widely recognised in the publishing industry. That's the point. The focus is economics not literature. David Lassman had some very odd responses to his manuscript and it has given insight into how these things work. It would be frustrating, if you thought you were publishable, that you couldn't be, but this seems to be the odd thing about the world today. We have overly qualified people doing menial jobs because they have been studying for a lot of years and so haven't got "work experience" and then you have under qualified people in key jobs because they have done part time work and some study but they can demonstrate they are employable and they know the work world. So lots of high end stuff is becoming skewed. I think there is probably something to be said for a publishing co op. How do authors get published these days?
Bit bad when Jane Austen can't even get a look in. Worse when she is not widely recognised in the publishing industry. That's the point. The focus is economics not literature. David Lassman had some very odd responses to his manuscript and it has given insight into how these things work. It would be frustrating, if you thought you were publishable, that you couldn't be, but this seems to be the odd thing about the world today. We have overly qualified people doing menial jobs because they have been studying for a lot of years and so haven't got "work experience" and then you have under qualified people in key jobs because they have done part time work and some study but they can demonstrate they are employable and they know the work world. So lots of high end stuff is becoming skewed. I think there is probably something to be said for a publishing co op. How do authors get published these days?
Young farmers raise concerns about climate change
Young farmers raise concerns about climate change : "'The average age of farmers at the moment is approximately 56.
'That's pretty old, so there's going to be a lot of change in the future and it's important that we're involved.'"
For all the negative talk about Gen Y , there is a really good side to them. When they commit, they really want to participate and they really want to know and get it right. These 50 young farmers have used their initiative to meet with state and federal leaders to air their concerns as farmers about climate change. They want to be included in the process. They want advice, knowledge and then they want to play their part in setting up farms for the future. You really cannot do better than that.
'That's pretty old, so there's going to be a lot of change in the future and it's important that we're involved.'"
For all the negative talk about Gen Y , there is a really good side to them. When they commit, they really want to participate and they really want to know and get it right. These 50 young farmers have used their initiative to meet with state and federal leaders to air their concerns as farmers about climate change. They want to be included in the process. They want advice, knowledge and then they want to play their part in setting up farms for the future. You really cannot do better than that.
Wednesday, July 18, 2007
Uni throws Facebook at revellers
Uni throws Facebook at revellers : "'They cited three links to pictures on my Facebook profile where I've got shaving foam all over me. They must just do it randomly because it would take hours and hours to go through every profile. It's truly bizarre that they're paying staff to sit and go through Facebook. It must be extremely time-consuming.'"
The response of students is certainly in your face. So, some people can use software and applications but others cannot? Some people can spend time with these apps and others may not? These apps are only for certain people with certain purposes and not others who have different purposes? How flexible are your skills and applications? Curiouser and curiouser...and hilarious!
The response of students is certainly in your face. So, some people can use software and applications but others cannot? Some people can spend time with these apps and others may not? These apps are only for certain people with certain purposes and not others who have different purposes? How flexible are your skills and applications? Curiouser and curiouser...and hilarious!
Production company says sorry to BBC and Queen
Production company says sorry to BBC and Queen : "The Treasury complained that a a Newsnight report on Gordon Brown, before he became Prime Minister, was edited out of sequence to make the encounter with a journalist more dramatic."
Sorry isn't good enough really because it's about propriety and class. It's about respect and dignity. There are some things you simply do not do and misrepresenting people is one of them. It really isn't correct to take public figures and treat them with impunity because they are public figures. The worst is that there are many good journalists out there and there are some well respected media companies but the confused, ill conceived plans of some bring discredit to the whole area of journalism. There is nothing wrong with integrity, in fact, if you think about it, that's what you want from others. You want to be treated with integrity. It's unfortunate some have no understanding of this because then you end up in a silly , petty debate about manners and protocol and that is the crux of this issue. There are some things which you just take for granted and being treated in a dignified way is one of them. It just should not occur any other way so apologies are not the answer. Personal integrity.
Sorry isn't good enough really because it's about propriety and class. It's about respect and dignity. There are some things you simply do not do and misrepresenting people is one of them. It really isn't correct to take public figures and treat them with impunity because they are public figures. The worst is that there are many good journalists out there and there are some well respected media companies but the confused, ill conceived plans of some bring discredit to the whole area of journalism. There is nothing wrong with integrity, in fact, if you think about it, that's what you want from others. You want to be treated with integrity. It's unfortunate some have no understanding of this because then you end up in a silly , petty debate about manners and protocol and that is the crux of this issue. There are some things which you just take for granted and being treated in a dignified way is one of them. It just should not occur any other way so apologies are not the answer. Personal integrity.
Mobile Phone Data Cable
Some phones come with a data cable. Some people know what they are for and some people know what they are for but don't use them. I knew they existed but given that it took me EONS to shift from my Ericsson brick to a new Nokia(whcih is now considered old!)...well, using a data cable just had to take its time. Next problem was locating one in Adelaide. I could buy them over the Net and I should have because it's cheaper that way, but when I am not sure I like to go and seek and find for myself. Then I find out Adelaide is not very together when it comes to data cables. Most places do not stock them. Some people pretend to know about them and have the prices all wrong and finally, finally, in town on Tuesday I located a data cable suitable for my phone and I'd like to thank Dick Smiths and the great person who served me who actually tried to locate a cheaper one for me. I paid for a Nokia one and it comes with some good software so I am not too stressed about the price. All phones should come with them and they need to be freely available like other TV and peripheral cables. If you want me to use my phone better and on the Net then please make it normal for me. I loaded the Nokia PC suite and I am so glad. I can now clean up my phone, arrange and organise it as I wish. The bonus for a thumb klutz like me is I can write my SMS messages on my computer if I am with my computer...which is a lot of the time. It has meant I now know about mobile phone apps and the sorts of possibilities which are there. All because of my data cable. I have discovered, for instance Wattpad where you can read and share stories in different languages on your mobile.So I downloaded the files and transferred them to my phone. What a bonus for travelling! So having got my data cable I now have the possibility of coming up to speed with the possibilities of the next generation of mobile phones. I figure if you can't beat 'em, you join 'em!
Blogshares
You know you are dealing with real coders when everything is in lowercase. Like the random security code for the new Dead Blog Finder,and the[b] mark up code[/b] for posts. All in a day’s live, laugh and learn with Blogshares. Did I say Dead Blog Finder? Yes, and for me, it’s one of the best inventions going because I really am tired of us wading through sites and information superhighways cluttered with the abandoned, moribund and just plain extinct remains of the urgent creativity of others. Let’s face it, we do get very excited when we launch a blog. We get obsessed, involved, inspired. Then, as part of blogging, some people never get lift off because the thought of going public messes with their mind, or they blog along and , whammo, one day they are in blog depression, have bloggers block, worse still, they are sucked into the bloggers blackhole. As a long term blogger you get it all into perspective. So, Dead Blog Finder means you earn Sigma points and chip rewards for clearing the dead blogs out of Blogshares. It’s so easy and funny. While you wait, the lovely coders have come up with some pretty funny jokes to read. My favourites are the after dark, the stars, the lost in thought and the animal testing. Last night I could have become paranoid because Hildy kept watching me, but I worked through it and she gave up. Blogshares has recently done a lot, and I mean a lot, because these people have other commitments too, like most of us, and they have really listened and then used their expert skills and creative ideas to provide some good challenges and ways to be involved. The site, online since 2003 (a wonderful snippet I gleaned from losing at Chances…you never lose at Chances. An opportunity is never missed to fill your head with laughter and learning), has become cruisier and more streamlined. So, no matter who you are, there will be a nice little spot for you. Whether you wish to make virtual millions, putter around, clean and tidy, make Net friends, promote your blog…and…bottom line…test your capacity to pull your head in and learn, then Blogshares is well worth it. It can really test your high end thinking and social skills, but it also gives you plenty of non threatening challenges. I guess it’s the only site I know which actually caters to individual learning, skill and motivation needs! The more I know it, the more I respect it.
Tuesday, July 17, 2007
Baggy trousers' wearers risk six months in jail
Baggy trousers' wearers risk six months in jail : "Delcambre Town Council unanimously passed the anti-sag law earlier this week after baggy trousers became a fashion item"
Boys and men in low slung trousers have become the talk of the town here as well. Girls cop it for skirts way too short and low slung jeans...but we thought we'd nailed the butt crack in guys only to find they replaced it with the falling down pants...and even sit down with their undies on the chair and their trousers at half mast. So, at what age do boys normally do this? It might give an idea of where they are at emotionally, but everyone, young and old has had enough. I hope the money in fines is going towards braces to hold the pants up and extra material for the teenie weenie skirts and jeans.If you want to be revealing at least do it with flair and style! North Terrace was abuzz when some girl, about 14 was walking up...totally made up and a pouty face, mop of long blond hair and a white see through gauzy mini skirt...half of which was tucked into her panty hose at the back so everyone got a half moon and a good look at the G string...and we wonder about kids being abused. She was abusing herself and because no one knows whether you are going to get a rude, unthankful mouthful or not then no one said anything to let her know she looked like such a plonker.
Boys and men in low slung trousers have become the talk of the town here as well. Girls cop it for skirts way too short and low slung jeans...but we thought we'd nailed the butt crack in guys only to find they replaced it with the falling down pants...and even sit down with their undies on the chair and their trousers at half mast. So, at what age do boys normally do this? It might give an idea of where they are at emotionally, but everyone, young and old has had enough. I hope the money in fines is going towards braces to hold the pants up and extra material for the teenie weenie skirts and jeans.If you want to be revealing at least do it with flair and style! North Terrace was abuzz when some girl, about 14 was walking up...totally made up and a pouty face, mop of long blond hair and a white see through gauzy mini skirt...half of which was tucked into her panty hose at the back so everyone got a half moon and a good look at the G string...and we wonder about kids being abused. She was abusing herself and because no one knows whether you are going to get a rude, unthankful mouthful or not then no one said anything to let her know she looked like such a plonker.
Sydney shivers in record chill
Sydney shivers in record chill : "Sydneysiders woke up to their coldest July morning in 21 years today, when the thermometer dipped to 3.7 degrees."
3.7??? We've had 1.6!! Australia has gone chilly and we are feeling it. Aches, pains, colds. Sun, sand and surf? Not likely. The chill in the wind has been horrible. It's been something we have had to work on because we do not naturally rug up. We've been knitting and buying scarves. Wool jackets and coats are walking our the shops as are woolly hats. I have never seen so many woolly hats in Adelaide and everyone looks so cute! We've had to buy gloves,blankets, quilts. We have at least had the sense to rug up in our winter woollies instead of our favourite windcheaters. Thick socks are very popular too. Normally we moan our way through. Some people are getting grumpy because they get woken up at 4 or 5 am when the temperature drops quite markedly ...but huddling and cuddling is getting us through!
3.7??? We've had 1.6!! Australia has gone chilly and we are feeling it. Aches, pains, colds. Sun, sand and surf? Not likely. The chill in the wind has been horrible. It's been something we have had to work on because we do not naturally rug up. We've been knitting and buying scarves. Wool jackets and coats are walking our the shops as are woolly hats. I have never seen so many woolly hats in Adelaide and everyone looks so cute! We've had to buy gloves,blankets, quilts. We have at least had the sense to rug up in our winter woollies instead of our favourite windcheaters. Thick socks are very popular too. Normally we moan our way through. Some people are getting grumpy because they get woken up at 4 or 5 am when the temperature drops quite markedly ...but huddling and cuddling is getting us through!
Paris hails bicycle revolution
The Scotsman - International - Paris hails bicycle revolution: "Under the Vélib scheme, anyone can use one of the heavy-duty bicycles by simply swiping a travel card. Users can leave the bike at any rack anywhere in the city."
13,000 people have signed up for the annual subscription, not a lot in a city of 10 million, but if it works well, then the snowball effect will come into play. Great idea for a big city...any city, really because it keeps traffic under control along with the pollution. It would actually be nice to have traffic free inner city areas. Save on carbon, save on money and a great bonus for health. The scheme has obviously taken off, I hope it just grows and grows.
13,000 people have signed up for the annual subscription, not a lot in a city of 10 million, but if it works well, then the snowball effect will come into play. Great idea for a big city...any city, really because it keeps traffic under control along with the pollution. It would actually be nice to have traffic free inner city areas. Save on carbon, save on money and a great bonus for health. The scheme has obviously taken off, I hope it just grows and grows.
Holden Astra CDX
So what did I get? I traded my lovely , lovely Mazda on a Holden Astra CDX. I did get a a good trade in price but because I had been on the car net sites I could see the used car prices were coming down. Very, very odd. I have made it my policy to turn my car in every 5 years. This way I have got a better and better car and then I have no longer had to suffer the indignity of roadside failures, tow trucks, blown up engines...because I used to drive my cars into the ground. I have had some great cars. For different reasons. Every car brings a new adventure and new perspective. My Mazda restored my sheer joy of driving and whoever has it now has a beautiful car. I could use the net sites to search and see. It came down to the Holden Astra Hatchback because it had a 1.8 litre engine, which I wanted, it had oodles of safety gear, it was full of gadgets and buttons and my Mazda had a lot of that stuff so I was hardly going to forgo it. Well now I have a car which tells me the time and temperature, which gives me messages, where I can stack my CDs. There gear changes are superb. The ABS breaks a real bonus. It holds the road like nothing else I have ever driven and so I feel very secure in my judgements. I had to get a steering wheel cover because my hands were slipping on the steering wheel, but that's just made it look cooler. The sound system is good. There is comfort in the back seats and head rests. Everyone comments on how great eh seats are because they make you feel comfortable and secure. It is a bit stark on the inside, but it is very precise and precision built. So far everyone loves it and my Mazda was very popular...a drooly kind of car. This Holden Astra I would never have considered if it weren't for the car sites on the Net. It meant I could look, compare, read reviews, look at prices and what each car had. I had a list of three cars to go and look at...but this Astra looked so cool...with the removable aerial on the back and I have dark tinted windows. I love it! Bottom line? Had I not got a good trade in I would have kept the Mazda and next year I would have got a few extras added to it and I would have just kept running it...and running it.
Used car prices tumbling, research shows
AdelaideNow... Used car prices tumbling, research shows: "Over the long-term, falling used car prices could also have ramifications for the new car market, with bargain prices likely to lure some potential buyers away from new vehicles and into second-hand cars."
It's true, if you don't get the trade in value , you forgo the new car and look for something else. The used car prices have dropped dramatically in the last 3 months. Why? There will be a reason for it and it will become clear. It will disadvantage the new cars. It will make people look for newer and good used bargains. It means a major expense is losing its value. It'll make people rethink cars completely because of petrol prices and the possibility of good public transport systems. Car manufacturers need to be careful. It also means some used car businesses are being pushed out of the market....so something is going on, that's for sure. We'll find out soon enough and it'll be about money! It's a shame because our car market is just popping and we are all having fun with our new/newer cars. We haven't had this much fun in ages!
It's true, if you don't get the trade in value , you forgo the new car and look for something else. The used car prices have dropped dramatically in the last 3 months. Why? There will be a reason for it and it will become clear. It will disadvantage the new cars. It will make people look for newer and good used bargains. It means a major expense is losing its value. It'll make people rethink cars completely because of petrol prices and the possibility of good public transport systems. Car manufacturers need to be careful. It also means some used car businesses are being pushed out of the market....so something is going on, that's for sure. We'll find out soon enough and it'll be about money! It's a shame because our car market is just popping and we are all having fun with our new/newer cars. We haven't had this much fun in ages!
Monday, July 16, 2007
New cancer test reduces breast biopsies
New cancer test reduces breast biopsies : "'I like the fact we can get the results on the same day and not having to send away the samples for biopsies,'' Ms Croker said."
Same day results and no needles. That has to be a big step forward and would save hours of trauma and worry. They need to teat more women to ensure the methods are valid, but what fantastic results in research!
Same day results and no needles. That has to be a big step forward and would save hours of trauma and worry. They need to teat more women to ensure the methods are valid, but what fantastic results in research!
Poor eat as healthily as rich
Poor eat as healthily as rich : "The study also found increasing awareness among lower-income families about the need to eat healthier food, with more than 75 per cent of those surveyed saying they wanted to improve their diet."
And that's the whole point, isn't it? The will to eat properly and then knowing about the nutritional value of food. Money doesn't give you brains or information, nor does it give you the will to feed yourself properly. We have magazines and programmes here which help people on a limited budget seek the right food and know which nutrients are provided by which foods. These magazines and programmes give us some delicious recipes and simple ideas to get us enthusiastic about food. We are also well informed on the more expensive options too...so everyone gets the information. I guess we are lucky in that Adelaide provides us with motivation too. We like our food and there is plenty to choose.
And that's the whole point, isn't it? The will to eat properly and then knowing about the nutritional value of food. Money doesn't give you brains or information, nor does it give you the will to feed yourself properly. We have magazines and programmes here which help people on a limited budget seek the right food and know which nutrients are provided by which foods. These magazines and programmes give us some delicious recipes and simple ideas to get us enthusiastic about food. We are also well informed on the more expensive options too...so everyone gets the information. I guess we are lucky in that Adelaide provides us with motivation too. We like our food and there is plenty to choose.
Firefighters help deliver baby
AdelaideNow... Firefighters help deliver baby: "'Our crew who have advanced first aid training and are equipped with basic medical equipment assisted the father to quickly deliver a healthy little baby boy,'' District Officer Shaw said."
Not again!!Now we have firefighters delivering babies. And what a great community effort we are having. These stories are just so human. This is the second one within a week. I am wondering if the babies are just so anxious to get into the world or if we have not given parents to be enough information to judge the run to hospital...or maybe there are other issues we haven't thought of. I guess our capacity to get stories into the news has increased to. So...well done everybody again!
Not again!!Now we have firefighters delivering babies. And what a great community effort we are having. These stories are just so human. This is the second one within a week. I am wondering if the babies are just so anxious to get into the world or if we have not given parents to be enough information to judge the run to hospital...or maybe there are other issues we haven't thought of. I guess our capacity to get stories into the news has increased to. So...well done everybody again!
Women forced to have babies to get Govt bonus
Women forced to have babies to get Govt bonus: dept head : "'We do know anecdotally that that's true. We know that some young women are stood over for the $5,000 with their druggie friends and they're having babies every year because of it.'"
We hadn't thought of that, had we? I guess it's possible if the money is paid but he baby is then not kept and someone else becomes the carer. It's also feasible the children could be kept but not properly looked after. Money. Money. Money. Mal Brough wants Ms. Vardon to give names. She may not know. Sometimes these sorts of things are spoken of in general terms. We, however, probably would know. Now that we've thought of it, we may well be more alert. It's about getting the information out to people who are in the position to do something about it. For most people having a baby wouldn't be about the bonus. The bonus helps in the initial set up of a new child. Past that point they are yours to love and provide for and most people do that willingly.
We hadn't thought of that, had we? I guess it's possible if the money is paid but he baby is then not kept and someone else becomes the carer. It's also feasible the children could be kept but not properly looked after. Money. Money. Money. Mal Brough wants Ms. Vardon to give names. She may not know. Sometimes these sorts of things are spoken of in general terms. We, however, probably would know. Now that we've thought of it, we may well be more alert. It's about getting the information out to people who are in the position to do something about it. For most people having a baby wouldn't be about the bonus. The bonus helps in the initial set up of a new child. Past that point they are yours to love and provide for and most people do that willingly.
Sunday, July 15, 2007
Mobile internet use 'increasing'
Mobile internet use 'increasing': "Despite the new numbers, Mr Husson said mobile data was 'far from being mainstream'."
Well, it's only taken me a year to work out how to connect my mobile to the internet!! So now I go on it everyday. I had lost my booklet and the process wasn't intuitive. So every week I was getting the same old failure message. Well, I have had the grand tidy up and lo and behold, there was my mobile booklet et voila!! Now I am nettified on my phone. I hear Telstra is doing away with the CDMA network next year and I guess that'll get us all migrating to the 3G and NextG phones...after all, how many of us use an analogue phone now and young and old folk alike seem to be glued to their mobiles. It just takes time. Evolution. Were it a revolution we would not manage the logistics of it very well.
Well, it's only taken me a year to work out how to connect my mobile to the internet!! So now I go on it everyday. I had lost my booklet and the process wasn't intuitive. So every week I was getting the same old failure message. Well, I have had the grand tidy up and lo and behold, there was my mobile booklet et voila!! Now I am nettified on my phone. I hear Telstra is doing away with the CDMA network next year and I guess that'll get us all migrating to the 3G and NextG phones...after all, how many of us use an analogue phone now and young and old folk alike seem to be glued to their mobiles. It just takes time. Evolution. Were it a revolution we would not manage the logistics of it very well.
65,000 people for city centre
AdelaideNow... 65,000 people for city centre: "'How can that be sustainable? We have huge congestion and parking problems now and public transport is not coping with the numbers,' he said."
We do have a good city and more people actually living there would make it better. It would thrive. We have some good facilities and entertainment venues. We have some great places to wander and walk. Adelaide is home to quite a few people I know and they all rave about it and cannot thank themselves enough for having the guts to move out of the suburbs! If public transport is a pain then we need to have a damn good long look at it. Adelaide public transport is erratic and unreliable...and when it works it is brilliant. We can be brilliant. We need to think carefully about how to do what so many other cities do so easily ...provide people with reliable, frequent, useful public transport! We need to look at how many people are put off because they cannot rely on buses and trains to be there and get them there. We need to look at the issues of smaller trains and buses for off peak periods. It just needs a good Adelaide going over. It's not as if we are poor problem solvers.
We do have a good city and more people actually living there would make it better. It would thrive. We have some good facilities and entertainment venues. We have some great places to wander and walk. Adelaide is home to quite a few people I know and they all rave about it and cannot thank themselves enough for having the guts to move out of the suburbs! If public transport is a pain then we need to have a damn good long look at it. Adelaide public transport is erratic and unreliable...and when it works it is brilliant. We can be brilliant. We need to think carefully about how to do what so many other cities do so easily ...provide people with reliable, frequent, useful public transport! We need to look at how many people are put off because they cannot rely on buses and trains to be there and get them there. We need to look at the issues of smaller trains and buses for off peak periods. It just needs a good Adelaide going over. It's not as if we are poor problem solvers.
Murder rate's 20-year low
AdelaideNow... Murder rate's 20-year low: "Police figures show there were 12 murders last financial year, compared with 22 in the corresponding period for the previous year. The figure is the lowest since 1988-89 when 18 murders were reported."
Shhh! Don't tell anyone. We are supposed to be the murder capital, doncha know?
Shhh! Don't tell anyone. We are supposed to be the murder capital, doncha know?
Helicopter history repeats for French prison escapee
Helicopter history repeats for French prison escapee - : "A French criminal jailed for having organised a helicopter-assisted prison break has again escaped from a French prison using a helicopter."
M. Payet eez a verry notty,notty boy and ee weel aff to be cot agen and put in ze prroperr prrison away frrom ze helicopterrs.
M. Payet eez a verry notty,notty boy and ee weel aff to be cot agen and put in ze prroperr prrison away frrom ze helicopterrs.
Saturday, July 14, 2007
Models in the spotlight
AdelaideNow... Models in the spotlight: "'It is really great to see so many healthy, athletic looking girls here,' she said."
That's what most healthy Australian girls do look like - athletes...tall, leggy, strong and their skin just glows. It's good to see healthy people in fashion parades. It's good to see someone who looks well. Even if you are doing fashion as art, then the person needs to look alive and well and have those beautiful clear eyes most top, successful models have. It is an industry which has been in the limelight and with good reason. It's good to turn the spotlight on things from time to time. We don't need to be harming ourselves and others just to promote things. People are more important. From all the discussion both here and overseas we are coming to a better understanding of what we want to see and what we are willing to reject because it's not in the best interests of the wellbeing of the people involved in the industry. It's a really healthy sign that we are no longer looking for the quick fix. We are prepared to argue our views,, look at our options, confront the hard stuff and then change the boundaries.
That's what most healthy Australian girls do look like - athletes...tall, leggy, strong and their skin just glows. It's good to see healthy people in fashion parades. It's good to see someone who looks well. Even if you are doing fashion as art, then the person needs to look alive and well and have those beautiful clear eyes most top, successful models have. It is an industry which has been in the limelight and with good reason. It's good to turn the spotlight on things from time to time. We don't need to be harming ourselves and others just to promote things. People are more important. From all the discussion both here and overseas we are coming to a better understanding of what we want to see and what we are willing to reject because it's not in the best interests of the wellbeing of the people involved in the industry. It's a really healthy sign that we are no longer looking for the quick fix. We are prepared to argue our views,, look at our options, confront the hard stuff and then change the boundaries.
Baby born on freeway roadside
AdelaideNow... Baby born on freeway roadside: "Her driver pulled to the side of the South Gippsland Highway at Dandenong South and called an ambulance, Metropolitan Ambulance Service spokesman Ray Rowe said."
Some people will do anything to get into the limelight! This baby is such a star!! Already ! On the side of the freeway in Melbourne. Location. Location. Location. So who was the driver...cum birth partner, cum birth attendant...cum hero? The Mum is made of sterling stuff too. Fantastic story. A Bastille Day to remember for them all.
Some people will do anything to get into the limelight! This baby is such a star!! Already ! On the side of the freeway in Melbourne. Location. Location. Location. So who was the driver...cum birth partner, cum birth attendant...cum hero? The Mum is made of sterling stuff too. Fantastic story. A Bastille Day to remember for them all.
Polio explained
Polio explained - Better Health Channel.: "Polio infection can be prevented by immunisation
Polio is an infectious disease caused by a virus. It can be caught if the faeces (poo) of an infected person contaminate food, water or hands. Children and adults need to be immunised to prevent polio infection."
The Better Health Channel is such a good site! When I am not sure and I want to go over the basics to do with health, then the Better Health Channel always sets my head straight very quickly. It should be more widely advertised so that internet users know where to get sane advice. With regard to polio, then it's vaccination but keeping those hands washed!! There's a reason why we keep being told to wash our hands!! The site will update you quickly on what you need to know and that is our health services serve us well and we should be grateful.
Polio is an infectious disease caused by a virus. It can be caught if the faeces (poo) of an infected person contaminate food, water or hands. Children and adults need to be immunised to prevent polio infection."
The Better Health Channel is such a good site! When I am not sure and I want to go over the basics to do with health, then the Better Health Channel always sets my head straight very quickly. It should be more widely advertised so that internet users know where to get sane advice. With regard to polio, then it's vaccination but keeping those hands washed!! There's a reason why we keep being told to wash our hands!! The site will update you quickly on what you need to know and that is our health services serve us well and we should be grateful.
Authorities urge calm after polio diagnosis
Authorities urge calm after polio diagnosis : "'We've had 238 of the 249 here in Melbourne, and the other persons on that flight are as follows, two in New South Wales, three in Tasmania, one in the ACT, one in Queensland, and four for whom there was no contact details and they're trying to find out where these persons might be,' he said."
There is a reason why we vaccinate. It has kept us healthy and well. Unfortunately not all people are able to be born in a country which offers vaccinations to everyone. Our world is in contact all the time now and flying has made us closer. Do we need to panic? No. We need to realise the case was picked up quickly, the passengers are being located and vaccinated. There are 4 without contact details, so we shall need to think about that in the future. We need to be able to contact others in a case like this and it's a matter of importance. In the meantime we can be thankful our airlines and health services are on the ball and I thank them for that. I hope the poor person who has been diagnosed with polio is going to be all right. I grew up in a country where children caught polio and it was the vaccination programme which put an end to it.
There is a reason why we vaccinate. It has kept us healthy and well. Unfortunately not all people are able to be born in a country which offers vaccinations to everyone. Our world is in contact all the time now and flying has made us closer. Do we need to panic? No. We need to realise the case was picked up quickly, the passengers are being located and vaccinated. There are 4 without contact details, so we shall need to think about that in the future. We need to be able to contact others in a case like this and it's a matter of importance. In the meantime we can be thankful our airlines and health services are on the ball and I thank them for that. I hope the poor person who has been diagnosed with polio is going to be all right. I grew up in a country where children caught polio and it was the vaccination programme which put an end to it.
Friday, July 13, 2007
Paid maternity leave is vital
Paid maternity leave is vital: : "'While an overwhelming 93 per cent agree in the poll that 'the most important thing for a baby in its first year of life is to have the full-time care of at least one parent', 83 per cent of respondents also agreed that 'financial pressure means that many new mothers have to return to work too soon after having a baby'.'"
The 20 somethings are very clear in what they want and they are the haves. They have been brought up with a sense of entitlement. The best of them articulate their position well. They have a right to work. They have a right to have children. They do not have a right to be disadvantaged. Were they a man they would not be disadvantaged. We seemed to have passed through the phase where men stay at home to help care for babies. It has become the role of women and professional women want to be considered as equals and the only way to do that, in their eyes, is to be reasonable about parenting leave. They could have less. They could have smaller homes , smaller mortgages and older cars. It's not negotiable and it will be an election issue.
The 20 somethings are very clear in what they want and they are the haves. They have been brought up with a sense of entitlement. The best of them articulate their position well. They have a right to work. They have a right to have children. They do not have a right to be disadvantaged. Were they a man they would not be disadvantaged. We seemed to have passed through the phase where men stay at home to help care for babies. It has become the role of women and professional women want to be considered as equals and the only way to do that, in their eyes, is to be reasonable about parenting leave. They could have less. They could have smaller homes , smaller mortgages and older cars. It's not negotiable and it will be an election issue.
Royalty fee 'to damage net radio'
Royalty fee 'to damage net radio': "Smaller stations face a payment increase of 1,200% while larger station could owe up to 300% more, lobby group SaveNetRadio has said."
I listen to my radio less and less and my Net Radio more and more. In the car I play CDs and have stopped listening to the radio altogether. Around the house I listen to my MP3 player , so when I come on the Net I love to listen to radio from other countries. I have found so much music I have liked and subsequently bought. When I travel I pick up the local radio on my MP3 player and that's good. I spend time on the Net. It's good to have the radio going. It should not be costing more because it is replacing "normal" radio. It is becoming the norm. Why would you hike fees unless you want to stop net broadcasting and why would you want to do that? Who doesn't want to move with the times?
I listen to my radio less and less and my Net Radio more and more. In the car I play CDs and have stopped listening to the radio altogether. Around the house I listen to my MP3 player , so when I come on the Net I love to listen to radio from other countries. I have found so much music I have liked and subsequently bought. When I travel I pick up the local radio on my MP3 player and that's good. I spend time on the Net. It's good to have the radio going. It should not be costing more because it is replacing "normal" radio. It is becoming the norm. Why would you hike fees unless you want to stop net broadcasting and why would you want to do that? Who doesn't want to move with the times?
Queensland water inspectors may raid homes
Queensland water inspectors may raid homes : "WATER inspectors could be given the power to legally enter Brisbane properties which have recorded high water usage - and then name and shame the offending householders."
Well, I was on Beach Road this morning and there was a water leak. The guy in the shop had reported it yesterday. The lady in another shop said she couldn't believe it had just been left because it started as a small leak, apparently, and was now running...straight down the road drain. We were dismayed that all our vigilance and water saving was being treated with impunity. If you care about saving water, you care about it and it applies to EVERYONE.
Well, I was on Beach Road this morning and there was a water leak. The guy in the shop had reported it yesterday. The lady in another shop said she couldn't believe it had just been left because it started as a small leak, apparently, and was now running...straight down the road drain. We were dismayed that all our vigilance and water saving was being treated with impunity. If you care about saving water, you care about it and it applies to EVERYONE.
Mum out of control
AdelaideNow... Mum smoked dope night before killing baby: "The court was told the woman, who has no criminal history, was a regular user of cannabis which she claimed helped her relax and 'cope better'' with the child."
Coped so well she was irritable,felt like she was out of her body,lost control and the baby who had previously been in foster care ,like the older child,was violently shaken to death. The 24 year old is clearly very ill probably from the effects of too much dope and an inherent depressive disorder. I'm not the expert, but she is obviously not coping and she should not be a mother. She can't look after herself and doesn't appear to have any support. The trouble with the other child in foster care is she can claim it back if she stabilises but she has killed a baby in rage. She is not a safe mother. It bothers me no one seems to be in close contact with her and that she is isolated and drug dependant to the point she can neither seek counsel nor get help when she needs it. She doesn't appear to realise she can ask for help. Maybe she has burnt her bridges with her friends and family. Who knows? It will be a very complicated story. She needs a lot of help to stabilise, but that little baby is dead and should not be. Did no one hear her? Did no one think the baby would be in danger? She will be sentenced in August. I hope it is to a secure mental health ward...and rehabilitation centre.
Coped so well she was irritable,felt like she was out of her body,lost control and the baby who had previously been in foster care ,like the older child,was violently shaken to death. The 24 year old is clearly very ill probably from the effects of too much dope and an inherent depressive disorder. I'm not the expert, but she is obviously not coping and she should not be a mother. She can't look after herself and doesn't appear to have any support. The trouble with the other child in foster care is she can claim it back if she stabilises but she has killed a baby in rage. She is not a safe mother. It bothers me no one seems to be in close contact with her and that she is isolated and drug dependant to the point she can neither seek counsel nor get help when she needs it. She doesn't appear to realise she can ask for help. Maybe she has burnt her bridges with her friends and family. Who knows? It will be a very complicated story. She needs a lot of help to stabilise, but that little baby is dead and should not be. Did no one hear her? Did no one think the baby would be in danger? She will be sentenced in August. I hope it is to a secure mental health ward...and rehabilitation centre.
Thursday, July 12, 2007
Headphones 'channelled' lightning into jogger's head
Headphones 'channelled' lightning into jogger's head : "The metal in the earphones helped channel the current and cause the injuries, they said."
The man has a hearing loss now and he is back to jogging, so the doctors obviously did a remarkable job of repairing the damage. Don't wear your earphones in a storm ! Now we know this. I guess it makes sense form the point of view you shouldn't use your phone either and people know that. It is so good that man is still alive and well.
The man has a hearing loss now and he is back to jogging, so the doctors obviously did a remarkable job of repairing the damage. Don't wear your earphones in a storm ! Now we know this. I guess it makes sense form the point of view you shouldn't use your phone either and people know that. It is so good that man is still alive and well.
Police hunt mini-skirt flasher
Police hunt mini-skirt flasher : "He was wearing a red beanie, grey top (possibly a T-shirt or singlet), black socks, blue and white sports shoes and a small black mini skirt."
He's in his 30s and there is a pretty good identikit picture. With a miniskirt he needs the fashion police onto him as well, so I doubt they'll take long to find him. The girls were pretty young and it would most likely be very upsetting for them. It's the gall of it and then the inappropriateness of it. Young girls find this kind of thing quite disturbing. It happened to my daughter and her friend when they were on their way to school and the man lurked behind the bushes. It's one of the two times my daughter rang me at work so I knew there was a real problem. They had tried to manage it and had tried to get on with their school day, but it was just upsetting them all the time and this is where Mum came in. Once the teachers knew, the police knew and the man was never seen again. It's important for people to report behaviour like this because it might stop at this and it might not.
He's in his 30s and there is a pretty good identikit picture. With a miniskirt he needs the fashion police onto him as well, so I doubt they'll take long to find him. The girls were pretty young and it would most likely be very upsetting for them. It's the gall of it and then the inappropriateness of it. Young girls find this kind of thing quite disturbing. It happened to my daughter and her friend when they were on their way to school and the man lurked behind the bushes. It's one of the two times my daughter rang me at work so I knew there was a real problem. They had tried to manage it and had tried to get on with their school day, but it was just upsetting them all the time and this is where Mum came in. Once the teachers knew, the police knew and the man was never seen again. It's important for people to report behaviour like this because it might stop at this and it might not.
Queen storms out
AdelaideNow... Queen storms out: "'I think it will look better without the crown, because the garter robe is so ... '"
Storms out? Maybe. More likely a case of having it up to her crown with someone who just doesn't know. The trouble with deconstructing society is that it leaves some people totally clueless. A Lamborghini is probably better without its wheels, heh?
Storms out? Maybe. More likely a case of having it up to her crown with someone who just doesn't know. The trouble with deconstructing society is that it leaves some people totally clueless. A Lamborghini is probably better without its wheels, heh?
15th Breast Cancer Case
New breast cancer case at ABC Brisbane : "'The union's calling on ABC to now revisit the cancer cluster investigation to ensure that all those tests that were recommended as part of that investigation now take place,' he said."
It's odd, so very odd. There has to be something because 15 women in the same building? No matter when they worked there? It has to be the building or something in the area. I know they have been testing and I know they have been trying to get to the bottom of it. They need to call on all health experts, mainstream and alternative to try and work out what on earth is going on. Could be diet, could be electrical and electronic fields. Could be a lot of things. It's important to keep at it until the cause is found. This is just too traumatic for the women, their families, their colleagues. I know they may be reluctant to find anything in case there is litigation. I can see that side of it. At this stage , the health of the women is so very important and it will have to be a well negotiated team effort in this day and age.
It's odd, so very odd. There has to be something because 15 women in the same building? No matter when they worked there? It has to be the building or something in the area. I know they have been testing and I know they have been trying to get to the bottom of it. They need to call on all health experts, mainstream and alternative to try and work out what on earth is going on. Could be diet, could be electrical and electronic fields. Could be a lot of things. It's important to keep at it until the cause is found. This is just too traumatic for the women, their families, their colleagues. I know they may be reluctant to find anything in case there is litigation. I can see that side of it. At this stage , the health of the women is so very important and it will have to be a well negotiated team effort in this day and age.
Wednesday, July 11, 2007
Hospital bungles are killing scores
Hospital bungles are killing scores : "There were 4.3 million people admitted to 759 public hospitals in 2004-05."
4.3 million admitted to hospital and 130 mistakes. In any other job those would be good figures. It can't happen with hospitals though because it means lives. So obviously it's about conditions, staffing and checking, double checking and quadruply checking. There have to be non stop checks all along the way. We are actually very good at protocols and procedures, so it'll change in hospitals but the main thing is to ensure no one is doing too much so that facts are muddied. I think patients, too, need to be part of that process and make sure they know what is occurring and what medication they need and what procedures. If the patient is clear and takes some control then that can only help the accuracy of treatment plans.
4.3 million admitted to hospital and 130 mistakes. In any other job those would be good figures. It can't happen with hospitals though because it means lives. So obviously it's about conditions, staffing and checking, double checking and quadruply checking. There have to be non stop checks all along the way. We are actually very good at protocols and procedures, so it'll change in hospitals but the main thing is to ensure no one is doing too much so that facts are muddied. I think patients, too, need to be part of that process and make sure they know what is occurring and what medication they need and what procedures. If the patient is clear and takes some control then that can only help the accuracy of treatment plans.
PM out of touch
PM out of touch over rising household costs: "“They find it hard to reconcile the talk of economic prosperity with their own household circumstances.'"
There was a big article in The Messenger Press today about how so many charitable organisations are just having to turn people away. The cold winter, the rising fuel costs, the lack of affordable homes are putting people on the street. Some people are taking their children to the charities rather than sending them to school because the children have nothing to eat and nothing for their lunch box and that would be so humiliating. We apparently have more people living on the street. This is Adelaide. We have enough money in Australia so that everyone can eat and have a roof over their head, but as the rich enjoy their extra riches, then it comes at a cost because there is only so much money in this country.
There was a big article in The Messenger Press today about how so many charitable organisations are just having to turn people away. The cold winter, the rising fuel costs, the lack of affordable homes are putting people on the street. Some people are taking their children to the charities rather than sending them to school because the children have nothing to eat and nothing for their lunch box and that would be so humiliating. We apparently have more people living on the street. This is Adelaide. We have enough money in Australia so that everyone can eat and have a roof over their head, but as the rich enjoy their extra riches, then it comes at a cost because there is only so much money in this country.
Recycling to save the planet
AdelaideNow... Recycling to save the planet: "'If you currently throw your cartridges into landfill, please consider the environment and the charities by recycling,' said McGuinness McDermott Foundation executive director Tony McGuinness."
That's a can do plan. That's something we can do easily and other places have offered to take our cartridges but I like this one because the proceeds are going to charity as we stop the cartridges going into landfill. We need more of these sorts of community actions, especially for electronic goods and peripherals. Like, where have all the old mobiles gone?
That's a can do plan. That's something we can do easily and other places have offered to take our cartridges but I like this one because the proceeds are going to charity as we stop the cartridges going into landfill. We need more of these sorts of community actions, especially for electronic goods and peripherals. Like, where have all the old mobiles gone?
Urine
Aussie scientist calls for human urine fertiliser : "'There is a poo taboo that happens and happens differently in different cultures,' she said."
It's called hygiene. No sense in living in Australia if we cannot have running water and flushing toilets. If we wanted to live without these conveniences then we'd be subject to the same outbreaks of diseases available in areas where they do not have clean, running water. If we are to transport our urine to the nearest farm, then we are truly turning back the clock. There has to be a better way which preserves the health advantages of plumbed toilets.
It's called hygiene. No sense in living in Australia if we cannot have running water and flushing toilets. If we wanted to live without these conveniences then we'd be subject to the same outbreaks of diseases available in areas where they do not have clean, running water. If we are to transport our urine to the nearest farm, then we are truly turning back the clock. There has to be a better way which preserves the health advantages of plumbed toilets.
Tuesday, July 10, 2007
Georges River Car Haul
Car graveyard exhumed : "Police divers have been fighting strong river currents and 12C waters to locate and attach marker buoys to the submerged vehicles, which are believed to have been used in robberies or are linked to car rebirthing operations."
The George's River will be freezing this time of the year. The police get some great jobs, but trawling for drowned cars probably isn't one of their favourites. The Georges River is really pretty and a beautiful spot. 60 cars they think and they've hauled out 17 which has attracted some attention. I bet. It means they will be able to solve some of the crimes on their books, but it seems the cars are stolen and then dumped in the river. What a waste. What a lack of respect. How much damage and pollution have been caused? They are a hazard, for sure, but they will also affect nature in the area. Still, I suppose a car thief hasn't really got living with nature on their mind.
The George's River will be freezing this time of the year. The police get some great jobs, but trawling for drowned cars probably isn't one of their favourites. The Georges River is really pretty and a beautiful spot. 60 cars they think and they've hauled out 17 which has attracted some attention. I bet. It means they will be able to solve some of the crimes on their books, but it seems the cars are stolen and then dumped in the river. What a waste. What a lack of respect. How much damage and pollution have been caused? They are a hazard, for sure, but they will also affect nature in the area. Still, I suppose a car thief hasn't really got living with nature on their mind.
Broadband Bungling
South 'in broadband pain': "'We've received letters and emails from families and small businesses in the area which showed they are dissatisfied with the current service and need a greater network to run their business,' he said."
Indeed. We do seem to have had quite an implementation dip with broadband access South of Adelaide. The pockets where it cannot be accessed are feeling very agitated and rightly so. I can get ADSL but my sister, 5 minutes away by car has had to get a cable broadband connection. Dial Up really doesn't cut it any longer unless you just want to do emails. The pockets where it doesn't work are quite odd and the people are being disadvantaged because the article is right, it's affecting professionals, businesses and students. It's really quite silly and there needs to be a prompt solution because the South has a large population and it's a fast growing area. It's also a tourist area so not having proper broadband access is really rather behind the times. Same with mobile connection. I was caught in a fire in Clarendon a while back and couldn't use my mobile to call home because there was no mobile access where I was...Is this 2007 in Australia?
Indeed. We do seem to have had quite an implementation dip with broadband access South of Adelaide. The pockets where it cannot be accessed are feeling very agitated and rightly so. I can get ADSL but my sister, 5 minutes away by car has had to get a cable broadband connection. Dial Up really doesn't cut it any longer unless you just want to do emails. The pockets where it doesn't work are quite odd and the people are being disadvantaged because the article is right, it's affecting professionals, businesses and students. It's really quite silly and there needs to be a prompt solution because the South has a large population and it's a fast growing area. It's also a tourist area so not having proper broadband access is really rather behind the times. Same with mobile connection. I was caught in a fire in Clarendon a while back and couldn't use my mobile to call home because there was no mobile access where I was...Is this 2007 in Australia?
Funding cut to Savation Army?
AdelaideNow... Rann: Salvos lied: "Mr Rann said he would contact Mr Colson later to obtain the name of the public servant so he could have the claim investigated."
Oooh...oooh!...but at least by the end of the article it looks like reason prevailed. It is so important to respect and honour people and my first instinct is to think the Salvation Army need to be spoken to and now they are. I hope they are not having a funding cut. They have been working really hard on our behalf and they are one organisation which deserves a great deal of respect. Mr. Rann also works hard on our behalf so it's difficult to believe it got to this stage before a sensible road forward could be seen. I hope there are no funding cuts. The Salvation Army has done so much to help others but it has also done so much to help itself too and provide ways and means of sustaining itself in a very business driven, materialistic world. They need to be supported in this venture because they have become very successful in transforming themselves into what only can be called a charitable business model which is essential for survival in today's economic market.
Oooh...oooh!...but at least by the end of the article it looks like reason prevailed. It is so important to respect and honour people and my first instinct is to think the Salvation Army need to be spoken to and now they are. I hope they are not having a funding cut. They have been working really hard on our behalf and they are one organisation which deserves a great deal of respect. Mr. Rann also works hard on our behalf so it's difficult to believe it got to this stage before a sensible road forward could be seen. I hope there are no funding cuts. The Salvation Army has done so much to help others but it has also done so much to help itself too and provide ways and means of sustaining itself in a very business driven, materialistic world. They need to be supported in this venture because they have become very successful in transforming themselves into what only can be called a charitable business model which is essential for survival in today's economic market.
Battery hen and pig monitoring
RSPCA to boost battery hen, pig monitoring : "The RSPCA is hiring an inspector to monitor intensive farms in South Australia for animal cruelty."
Good. Teenagers are particularly proactive in this area in SA and quite a number have become vegans because they don't want animals hurt and treated badly so that they can eat and have shoes. They know their facts and they are very determined in their views. No one wants to know their animals have been kept in miserable conditions so that they can provide us with food. Truth is, animals which are looked after provide better food and there is such a difference between proper free range eggs and battery eggs. The proof is in the cakes, biscuits and slices! Proper eggs create masterpieces and the difference really is very noticeable. Given the changes are being made over the next 2 years then it is sensible evolutions back to treating our livestock fairly and kindly. We are not proud of what we have accepted, but setting things right will ensure we restore some sense and proper nutrition.
Good. Teenagers are particularly proactive in this area in SA and quite a number have become vegans because they don't want animals hurt and treated badly so that they can eat and have shoes. They know their facts and they are very determined in their views. No one wants to know their animals have been kept in miserable conditions so that they can provide us with food. Truth is, animals which are looked after provide better food and there is such a difference between proper free range eggs and battery eggs. The proof is in the cakes, biscuits and slices! Proper eggs create masterpieces and the difference really is very noticeable. Given the changes are being made over the next 2 years then it is sensible evolutions back to treating our livestock fairly and kindly. We are not proud of what we have accepted, but setting things right will ensure we restore some sense and proper nutrition.
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