Waste water could light homes, researchers say.:
"The Ghent University researchers have designed a way to boost the output of microbial fuel cells, an emerging technology that captures the energy produced when bacteria break down waste and turn it into electrical current."
I've said it before and I shall say it again - you can't say that scientists aren't thinking outside the square. They are showing some very inpsired, creative, novel approaches to our daily problems and if recycling the toilet water can light our homes...well, we all know where the sun shines sometimes!!
Wednesday, May 31, 2006
Researchers rethink breast cancer treatment.
Researchers rethink breast cancer treatment. :
"One of the chief scientists on the project, Professor John Yarnold from the UK Institute of Cancer Research, says the findings suggest that fewer, slightly larger doses may be at least as safe and as effective as the multiple small doses."
The impressive thing about this research is that it is unhurried, methodical, careful and systematic. I know we all want cancer fixed today and I know we all want that magical cure. While the testing is so thorough, some women will die, but this kind of research will establish the best possible option for treating breat cancer so that, in the long term, more women will stay alive. The more of this, the better.
"One of the chief scientists on the project, Professor John Yarnold from the UK Institute of Cancer Research, says the findings suggest that fewer, slightly larger doses may be at least as safe and as effective as the multiple small doses."
The impressive thing about this research is that it is unhurried, methodical, careful and systematic. I know we all want cancer fixed today and I know we all want that magical cure. While the testing is so thorough, some women will die, but this kind of research will establish the best possible option for treating breat cancer so that, in the long term, more women will stay alive. The more of this, the better.
Dummies fail safety tests: research.
Dummies fail safety tests: research.:
"Tests conducted by the ACA and published in its magazine Choice, showed half the dummies failed basic safety requirements."
I know. They have been driving on our roads and killing themselves and others for quite some time now.
"Tests conducted by the ACA and published in its magazine Choice, showed half the dummies failed basic safety requirements."
I know. They have been driving on our roads and killing themselves and others for quite some time now.
Speaker stands by Gillard suspension.
Speaker stands by Gillard suspension. :
"Ms Gillard has accused the Speaker of double standards, saying Tony Abbott used the same words to attack the Opposition last week."
Different rules for men and women? Our level of parliamentary debate is even worse than I thought. Saying something and then withdrawing it is just technical trickery. It's the saying of it and addressing anyone in such a manner in parliament which ought to be in question. On those rules you can say anything and withdraw it and are deemed to be better than someone else. So I can say anything and then say I withdraw it and it's all right? I don't think so. I do wish our parliament would operate along more dignified, informed and intelligent lines. This is truly pathetic. These people are supposed to be leading the country. Good job the rest of us are here.
"Ms Gillard has accused the Speaker of double standards, saying Tony Abbott used the same words to attack the Opposition last week."
Different rules for men and women? Our level of parliamentary debate is even worse than I thought. Saying something and then withdrawing it is just technical trickery. It's the saying of it and addressing anyone in such a manner in parliament which ought to be in question. On those rules you can say anything and withdraw it and are deemed to be better than someone else. So I can say anything and then say I withdraw it and it's all right? I don't think so. I do wish our parliament would operate along more dignified, informed and intelligent lines. This is truly pathetic. These people are supposed to be leading the country. Good job the rest of us are here.
Tuesday, May 30, 2006
Subsidies or Kyoto essential for nuclear power
Subsidies or Kyoto essential for nuclear power :
"HEAVY taxpayer subsidies would be required to get privately owned nuclear power into operation in Australia unless the Government joins the Kyoto Protocol."
So we would need to pay for our nuclear power stations?? Who will be owning them? Ah, Westinghouse. Don't they make washing machines? I think we need more facts and figures. More thought, more discussion, more debate. It may well be a good idea but I do not want to pay for stations being built. The fincial aspect of this is weird is odd to say the least.
"HEAVY taxpayer subsidies would be required to get privately owned nuclear power into operation in Australia unless the Government joins the Kyoto Protocol."
So we would need to pay for our nuclear power stations?? Who will be owning them? Ah, Westinghouse. Don't they make washing machines? I think we need more facts and figures. More thought, more discussion, more debate. It may well be a good idea but I do not want to pay for stations being built. The fincial aspect of this is weird is odd to say the least.
Town bans its aperitif
Town bans its aperitif :
"At the weekend, thousands of people staged a mock funeral mourning the death of the spritzer."
They obviously have a sense of humour. It doesn't appear to be the aperatif which is a fault but the addition of the gin, Campari or Aperol. One of the dangers of cocktails are they taste so good when they are going down. This one was 25% proof !!
"At the weekend, thousands of people staged a mock funeral mourning the death of the spritzer."
They obviously have a sense of humour. It doesn't appear to be the aperatif which is a fault but the addition of the gin, Campari or Aperol. One of the dangers of cocktails are they taste so good when they are going down. This one was 25% proof !!
Poor nations miss out on billions
Poor nations miss out on billions :
"By contrast many low-income countries still had little or no access to international private capital, the report said."
There is a lot of "stuff" in this article but I am curious to know what we shall be doing about the poor nations. Are they to stay poor? Will they not be able to float themselves ever? Why are they still poor and what can be done about it and if some countries are faring better why can't all countries do better? Countries can only develop if we look at how they can develop and get them off the ground. Health, education, food and water issues have to be at the bottom of it all somewhere. You cannot develop when you have nothing to eat and no clean water.
"By contrast many low-income countries still had little or no access to international private capital, the report said."
There is a lot of "stuff" in this article but I am curious to know what we shall be doing about the poor nations. Are they to stay poor? Will they not be able to float themselves ever? Why are they still poor and what can be done about it and if some countries are faring better why can't all countries do better? Countries can only develop if we look at how they can develop and get them off the ground. Health, education, food and water issues have to be at the bottom of it all somewhere. You cannot develop when you have nothing to eat and no clean water.
Nats president must go: Vaile
Nats president must go: Vaile :
"Mr Vaile says the federal party room is 'rock solid' in its opposition to the plan – although he conceded that federal MP Bruce Scott, one of the architects of the plan, put the case for change to an emergency meeting last night."
I think the whole point of a democracy is no voice is louder than another and no one more powerful than another. The elected representatives of the people are chosen to govern. They presumably have equal positions according to their rank but being the boss still means you rule by consensus and consultation. Parties are able to discuss and debate their wishes and I should have thought everyone could have their tuppence worth but some suitable forum would be established to decide the relative advantages and disasvantages of any proposed changes. Telling people? How old are they? How experienced are they? Obviously they need a good ding dong discussion based on evidence and well founded argument, but it would appear pretty healthy to be able to look a various models and what they might mean. Acting rather than reacting is fine when you seek change.
"Mr Vaile says the federal party room is 'rock solid' in its opposition to the plan – although he conceded that federal MP Bruce Scott, one of the architects of the plan, put the case for change to an emergency meeting last night."
I think the whole point of a democracy is no voice is louder than another and no one more powerful than another. The elected representatives of the people are chosen to govern. They presumably have equal positions according to their rank but being the boss still means you rule by consensus and consultation. Parties are able to discuss and debate their wishes and I should have thought everyone could have their tuppence worth but some suitable forum would be established to decide the relative advantages and disasvantages of any proposed changes. Telling people? How old are they? How experienced are they? Obviously they need a good ding dong discussion based on evidence and well founded argument, but it would appear pretty healthy to be able to look a various models and what they might mean. Acting rather than reacting is fine when you seek change.
Paris to showcase Indigenous art.
Paris to showcase Indigenous art. :
"On June 23, President Jacques Chirac will open the city's newest museum, the Musee due Quai Branly.
Tucked away near the Eiffel Tower, it is a multi-million dollar monument to non-Western art and it will permanently pay homage to Australia's Indigenous culture."
Je vous remercie de tout mon coeur. Thank you! This is brilliant news. We have some great artists here and our indigenous artists come up with vibrant, powerful works of art. The last indigenous art show I saw at the Bendigo art gallery and I thoroughy enjoyed and appreciated it. We do not see enough of our indigenous art works. Our cultural heritage goes back and back in time. This Paris exhibition will feature images from the Dreamtime. It is so important for the whole world to see the art of the most ancient civilisation on earth. I am so pleased our indenous people are being honoured and respected in this way. I wonder if they will feature any of the indigenous photography? I have seen some amazing pictures of Australia photographed by indigenous people and the photographs show Australia in a way we do not see it.
"On June 23, President Jacques Chirac will open the city's newest museum, the Musee due Quai Branly.
Tucked away near the Eiffel Tower, it is a multi-million dollar monument to non-Western art and it will permanently pay homage to Australia's Indigenous culture."
Je vous remercie de tout mon coeur. Thank you! This is brilliant news. We have some great artists here and our indigenous artists come up with vibrant, powerful works of art. The last indigenous art show I saw at the Bendigo art gallery and I thoroughy enjoyed and appreciated it. We do not see enough of our indigenous art works. Our cultural heritage goes back and back in time. This Paris exhibition will feature images from the Dreamtime. It is so important for the whole world to see the art of the most ancient civilisation on earth. I am so pleased our indenous people are being honoured and respected in this way. I wonder if they will feature any of the indigenous photography? I have seen some amazing pictures of Australia photographed by indigenous people and the photographs show Australia in a way we do not see it.
Monday, May 29, 2006
Lola, queen of the bomb-sniffing rats
Lola, queen of the bomb-sniffing rats :
"At about 220 grams Lola is too light to detonate landmines that guerillas set to protect crops used to make cocaine, which they sell to fund their four-decade-old revolution. It takes about 400 grams to detonate a mine."
I saw this a couple of days back and it comes down to what is "blogworthy" on the day. I thought it was a great piece of lateral thinking and a productive use of all that insane training of animals that scientists do. Rats running mazes, rats pressing doors and bells. This is useful training and boy, is little Lola an asset to humanity! We always think of rats as disgusting and evil but if their rodent habits, their keen noses, their persistence and their trainability can perform this sort of human service, then I think we need to look at them differently. Maybe they can be trained for less dangerous things too. I think it's great to train a rat to catch a rat!
What are Manners For?
What are Manners For?:
"Good Manners are a significant part of who you are. They are about Civility, Mutual Respect and Shared Values. A society without these three is not a society at all but a civil war zone."
This site has a very detailed and common sense approach to modern manners . It covers everything including business manners. It's a good reminder of what we need to enhance and bring back into our society because it has become a bit of a free for all and our children are lost in that. They learn from us. If we are vague and confused it means they because directionless with regard to values. It boils down to protocols which ecourage and underpin respect for other people.
"Good Manners are a significant part of who you are. They are about Civility, Mutual Respect and Shared Values. A society without these three is not a society at all but a civil war zone."
This site has a very detailed and common sense approach to modern manners . It covers everything including business manners. It's a good reminder of what we need to enhance and bring back into our society because it has become a bit of a free for all and our children are lost in that. They learn from us. If we are vague and confused it means they because directionless with regard to values. It boils down to protocols which ecourage and underpin respect for other people.
Pleasant aim of Good Manners Day
Pleasant aim of Good Manners Day:
"'Whether in the workplace, in the car, in the shops, on holiday, or at school, there seems to be an increasing disrespect for people,' he said.
'Retaining good manners is one step to ensuring we try to regain normal civility.'"
This was written on August 15th. 2003. I want to see a Good Manner Day...infact a week. A week where we concentrate on politesse and fine manners and treat people with civility and respect. Civility costs nothing!
"'Whether in the workplace, in the car, in the shops, on holiday, or at school, there seems to be an increasing disrespect for people,' he said.
'Retaining good manners is one step to ensuring we try to regain normal civility.'"
This was written on August 15th. 2003. I want to see a Good Manner Day...infact a week. A week where we concentrate on politesse and fine manners and treat people with civility and respect. Civility costs nothing!
Sir, I'm afraid it's 'ringxiety'
Sir, I'm afraid it's 'ringxiety' :
"Now the phenomenon is so widespread it has an official name: 'ringxiety'.
People have grown emotionally dependent on their mobiles for feelings of self-worth, claim psychologists."
My ringxiety stems from the worry someone's mobile is going to go off inappropriately...like in a meeting or, worse still, when they are running the meeting...and they answer it. It has happened twice in as many days where the person running the show has taken a call in the middle of their speech. I guess there is ipodxiety too for those who can't bear to face the world unplugged and that is the thing...the ring and the music make you so much more inportant that what is actually occurring. We have seriously lost it because it seems to be perfectly acceptable. I think it's the height of bad manners and very rude. Why be with others if you'd rather be plugged in?
"Now the phenomenon is so widespread it has an official name: 'ringxiety'.
People have grown emotionally dependent on their mobiles for feelings of self-worth, claim psychologists."
My ringxiety stems from the worry someone's mobile is going to go off inappropriately...like in a meeting or, worse still, when they are running the meeting...and they answer it. It has happened twice in as many days where the person running the show has taken a call in the middle of their speech. I guess there is ipodxiety too for those who can't bear to face the world unplugged and that is the thing...the ring and the music make you so much more inportant that what is actually occurring. We have seriously lost it because it seems to be perfectly acceptable. I think it's the height of bad manners and very rude. Why be with others if you'd rather be plugged in?
MP's move to let 16-year-olds vote
MP's move to let 16-year-olds vote :
"SIXTEEN-YEAR-OLDS could be heading to the polls at the next state election under new legislation to be introduced to Parliament within the next month."
This is a joke, surely. At 16 students are learning about our political system and some have some valid views, but their political knowledge is very much in the embryonic phase. We really have gone mad.
"SIXTEEN-YEAR-OLDS could be heading to the polls at the next state election under new legislation to be introduced to Parliament within the next month."
This is a joke, surely. At 16 students are learning about our political system and some have some valid views, but their political knowledge is very much in the embryonic phase. We really have gone mad.
Sunday, May 28, 2006
Dinky Di quarantine dog
Dinky Di is retiring after 10 years of service to our quarantine unit at Adelaide airport.Dinky Di security guard decides it's about time to smell the roses :
"He has sniffed out more than 23,000 items of concern, ranging from fresh fruit and vegetables, meat, plant cuttings, eggs and live animals."
I seem to be the only one who hasn't met Dinky Di or his 2 friends at Adelaide Airport. Everyone else has had tales to tell of our great little sniffer Beagle. He was on the news last night and looked so proud inspecting his domain. I am sure he will be a wonderful asset to the Adelaide family who will now be looking after him. Little Basil will be taking over this important task. We really can't afford to have illegal organic matter coming in and we are all pretty good about it...but long trips can make us forgetful and others think it's no big deal. Just live here and you will understand.
Ten Canoes wins Cannes prize
The Advertiser: Ten Canoes wins Cannes prize :
"De Heer worked closely with the Yolngu people of Ramingining, Arnhem Land, to make Ten Canoes, with the actors speaking the indigenous dialect of Ganalbingu."
I am so glad this film has won an award because our indigenous people, whom we know, we take into our hearts and love and yet, as a general rule, we do not respect and value our indigenous people enough. We do not understand them and only a few people make a real effort to understand and appreciate them. They are magical people suffering from the infiltration of "civilisation" and yet those who have come into our public arena are so valued, loved and prized. The films made about our indigenous people always touch our hearts and move us, so we have a rather ambivalent attitude to these people who have contributed so much to the arts and the environment, in particular. I can't wait to see the film...like the others it is bound to be a powerful, spellbinding tale.
"De Heer worked closely with the Yolngu people of Ramingining, Arnhem Land, to make Ten Canoes, with the actors speaking the indigenous dialect of Ganalbingu."
I am so glad this film has won an award because our indigenous people, whom we know, we take into our hearts and love and yet, as a general rule, we do not respect and value our indigenous people enough. We do not understand them and only a few people make a real effort to understand and appreciate them. They are magical people suffering from the infiltration of "civilisation" and yet those who have come into our public arena are so valued, loved and prized. The films made about our indigenous people always touch our hearts and move us, so we have a rather ambivalent attitude to these people who have contributed so much to the arts and the environment, in particular. I can't wait to see the film...like the others it is bound to be a powerful, spellbinding tale.
Chronic kidney disease in Australia
Chronic kidney disease in Australia 2005 (AIHW):
"People with chronic kidney disease are also at risk of a range of complications, including cardiovascular disease."
This site of the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare has a lot of downloadable PDF files so that you can learn all about kidney disease and how it can affect you and what you can do to avoid it.
"People with chronic kidney disease are also at risk of a range of complications, including cardiovascular disease."
This site of the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare has a lot of downloadable PDF files so that you can learn all about kidney disease and how it can affect you and what you can do to avoid it.
Wee Week
Wee Week puts spotlight on kidney disease.:
"'With the number of patients on dialysis increasing at 6 per cent per year, we've got a huge health problem,' she said."
Apart from the fact we can replace some of our drinks with water, what else can we do? An increase of 6% a year tends to suggest our lifestyle is a contributing factor. If Australians are not picking up that they have kidney disease until they have lost 90% of their kidneys then we are neither informed nor smart. We need to liven up here.
"'With the number of patients on dialysis increasing at 6 per cent per year, we've got a huge health problem,' she said."
Apart from the fact we can replace some of our drinks with water, what else can we do? An increase of 6% a year tends to suggest our lifestyle is a contributing factor. If Australians are not picking up that they have kidney disease until they have lost 90% of their kidneys then we are neither informed nor smart. We need to liven up here.
Saturday, May 27, 2006
Loose behaviour at 68
The Age: : "A 92-year-old woman phoned social services to complain of the 'loose behaviour' of her daughter, 68. The mother rang with 'tales of infidelity and philandering' but officials in the German city of Hildesheim told her she was about 50 years too late. Police went to smooth things over. The daughter, a former school teacher, told them: 'Forgive her. She's a daft old bat.'"
Many people at work have aged and ailing parents and relatives. Some of the stories are sad...like there are two of my friends who have both had to separate their parents into different homes because one has had Alzheimers and the other is too old to cope with it. After people have been married so happily for so long it seems so sad they end up apart like that. The older, healthier one can never understand and the families are put through such emotional strain trying to deal with it. Then there are the problems with parents with Alzheimers or Parkinsons and then there are the good news stories like my friend's aged father whom she finally convinced to wear contacts because he kept losing or breaking his glasses...and she aslo went along with him to get the treatment for poor sight which works on some people. Well...he father was crying because he could see brown ducks again. He had only been able to see white or brightly coloured birds. Then there are the "dotty" relatives and tales of those keep us amused and help salve the pain of those who have the sad stories to tell...but no one has had a mother like this. This old lady needs the Mother of the Year award for being so vigilant!!
Many people at work have aged and ailing parents and relatives. Some of the stories are sad...like there are two of my friends who have both had to separate their parents into different homes because one has had Alzheimers and the other is too old to cope with it. After people have been married so happily for so long it seems so sad they end up apart like that. The older, healthier one can never understand and the families are put through such emotional strain trying to deal with it. Then there are the problems with parents with Alzheimers or Parkinsons and then there are the good news stories like my friend's aged father whom she finally convinced to wear contacts because he kept losing or breaking his glasses...and she aslo went along with him to get the treatment for poor sight which works on some people. Well...he father was crying because he could see brown ducks again. He had only been able to see white or brightly coloured birds. Then there are the "dotty" relatives and tales of those keep us amused and help salve the pain of those who have the sad stories to tell...but no one has had a mother like this. This old lady needs the Mother of the Year award for being so vigilant!!
Cranfield University in Adelaide
The Advertiser: New Uni to lure defence contracts :
"Aimed at boosting defence skills, the campus will offer post-graduate degrees in defence engineering, specialising in areas such as radar, systems engineering, electro-optics and weapons."
There was a report a couple of days ago on our news saying people were leaving SA. I can't think why?! We used to be a nice little state and now we have the army moving back, submarine contracts, open cut uranium mining...this and that and now...a place to train everyone in things military. Someone needs to understand that South Australians neither want nor like war , nor are we going to feel safe surrounded by things military. It's just getting worse and worse so the young ones interviewed were quite clear SA was not for them. Selling it to us as defence is only patronising us. The people in power are belligerent; normal people are not.
"Aimed at boosting defence skills, the campus will offer post-graduate degrees in defence engineering, specialising in areas such as radar, systems engineering, electro-optics and weapons."
There was a report a couple of days ago on our news saying people were leaving SA. I can't think why?! We used to be a nice little state and now we have the army moving back, submarine contracts, open cut uranium mining...this and that and now...a place to train everyone in things military. Someone needs to understand that South Australians neither want nor like war , nor are we going to feel safe surrounded by things military. It's just getting worse and worse so the young ones interviewed were quite clear SA was not for them. Selling it to us as defence is only patronising us. The people in power are belligerent; normal people are not.
Crows record big win over Blues.
Crows record big win over Blues. :"The win sees the Crows leapfrog Collingwood and West Coast to assume top spot, but they could slide to second if the Eagles defeat Melbourne at Subiaco on Sunday afternoon."
After a leisurely morning or a morning catching up on the lawnmowing, the neighbourhood had a mad scramble after lunch to watch the Crows match or get the kids to the local football matches. There has been such a turn around and it's a good thing to see because it's a real family and friends thing, the football. There is a lot of pleasant rivalry and some harmless stirring. All nice stuff...and are the Crows fans happy? You bet!
Mount Everest climber arrives at base camp.
Mount Everest climber arrives at base camp. :
"He was reported to be dead and was abandoned by his fellow climbers, who were also beginning to become unwell.
However, the following day he was found alive by an American climber.
He is now being treated at base camp for frostbite and brain swelling."
Well, thank heaven's for the American climber. I hope Lincoln Hall will be all right now. There has been a lot of discussion about whether you should save people or not when you are climbing peaks like Mount Everest. In my discussions with people who know more about these things than I it seems to come down to 3 things. Firstly the conditions. In some conditions you simply cannot manage sick people and survive yourself. Secondly, every climber who climbs these sorts of peaks knows the risks and knows that they may have to be abandoned. Thirdly it relies on your own level of preparedness and fitness. Like swimming some people can only swim themselves. Others can swim and save someone else at the same time. I do not think mountain climbers are cold hearted and cruel. I think they have cruel and cold hearted conditions and that is the difference. I am not prepared to say it's right or wrong when I couldn't even climb any distance up a mountain. The people who know have to debate this issue and then perhaps there will be solutions to the problems since we have made some good technological advances. The debate is essential to the saving of lives because then all the options will be considered.
"He was reported to be dead and was abandoned by his fellow climbers, who were also beginning to become unwell.
However, the following day he was found alive by an American climber.
He is now being treated at base camp for frostbite and brain swelling."
Well, thank heaven's for the American climber. I hope Lincoln Hall will be all right now. There has been a lot of discussion about whether you should save people or not when you are climbing peaks like Mount Everest. In my discussions with people who know more about these things than I it seems to come down to 3 things. Firstly the conditions. In some conditions you simply cannot manage sick people and survive yourself. Secondly, every climber who climbs these sorts of peaks knows the risks and knows that they may have to be abandoned. Thirdly it relies on your own level of preparedness and fitness. Like swimming some people can only swim themselves. Others can swim and save someone else at the same time. I do not think mountain climbers are cold hearted and cruel. I think they have cruel and cold hearted conditions and that is the difference. I am not prepared to say it's right or wrong when I couldn't even climb any distance up a mountain. The people who know have to debate this issue and then perhaps there will be solutions to the problems since we have made some good technological advances. The debate is essential to the saving of lives because then all the options will be considered.
At least 1,700 die in Indonesian quake.
At least 1,700 die in Indonesian quake. :
"'The earthquake was felt to be massive - larger than the locals here say they've felt in their lives.'"
For pity's sake, haven't the Indonesians suffered enough? Another earthquake bigger than before. It is so unfair and even though no one said life would be fair the Indonesians are taking more than thier fair share of suffering. Australia and Indonesia may have their squabbles and arguments, but the truth is, we do care about each other. We are different cultures and we try to bridge that divide through all sorts of ties and bonds. It is so mean. We are all thinking of our neighbours and are upset they are going through more pain.
"'The earthquake was felt to be massive - larger than the locals here say they've felt in their lives.'"
For pity's sake, haven't the Indonesians suffered enough? Another earthquake bigger than before. It is so unfair and even though no one said life would be fair the Indonesians are taking more than thier fair share of suffering. Australia and Indonesia may have their squabbles and arguments, but the truth is, we do care about each other. We are different cultures and we try to bridge that divide through all sorts of ties and bonds. It is so mean. We are all thinking of our neighbours and are upset they are going through more pain.
Friday, May 26, 2006
Scientists could make you invisible
Scientists could make you invisible :
"Their work suggests science-fiction portrayals of invisibility, such as the cloaking devices used to hide space ships in Star Trek, might be truly possible."
Scientists on both sides of the Atlantic are claiming that making things and people invisible is now indeed something they can conceive. We have always been entranced by the notion of invisiblity and The Invisible Man has held many, may people in thrall. We have never actually thought of many things and people being invisible. A cloaking device is one thing, making something invisible is quite another...and what would we do with it?? Would we become nosy parkers in the extreme or naughty pranksters? Would it be used for evil? Yes, of course. Nothing we invet has just a good side. As humans we like to find the worst imaginable use for anything...even the mobile phone which can send obscene pictures can also take them, but it can also be use to explode devices. It's not just a phone. Nothing is innocent in our hands. So ...shall we ever recover our innocence or are we stuck in a James Bond film forever?
"Their work suggests science-fiction portrayals of invisibility, such as the cloaking devices used to hide space ships in Star Trek, might be truly possible."
Scientists on both sides of the Atlantic are claiming that making things and people invisible is now indeed something they can conceive. We have always been entranced by the notion of invisiblity and The Invisible Man has held many, may people in thrall. We have never actually thought of many things and people being invisible. A cloaking device is one thing, making something invisible is quite another...and what would we do with it?? Would we become nosy parkers in the extreme or naughty pranksters? Would it be used for evil? Yes, of course. Nothing we invet has just a good side. As humans we like to find the worst imaginable use for anything...even the mobile phone which can send obscene pictures can also take them, but it can also be use to explode devices. It's not just a phone. Nothing is innocent in our hands. So ...shall we ever recover our innocence or are we stuck in a James Bond film forever?
Pay up, or Glenelg's New Year bash is off
The Pay up, or Glenelg's New Year bash is off :
"Mayor Ken Rollond said the council would set aside $80,000 but wanted other sources to come up with a total of $140,000."
Glenelg became a serious alternative venue to Victoria Square as we marched intot he new millennium. It encapsulated what Glenelg had become and I daresay other places around the state will also become serious rallying points on New Year's Eve. It's good and we do need to look at how the costs will be covered because a lot of people enjoy these NYE activities and celebrations and it helping our state mature.Glenelg is a popular place with tourists and probably those over Christmas would enjoy our NYE by the sea. Whether the government should foot the rest of the bill is a moot point. People would be very disappointed if the Glenelg celebrations didn't go ahead so maybe we need to look at NYE fund raising programmes. Something easy which would raise revenue. We have some very popular photogrpahs of our areas taken by professional photographers. Some of us have bought these phots to send overseas. A diary? A calendar? A set of Christmas cards? Would that raise enough funds? I can remember some lovely little chocolates bought in Switzerland with beautiful photos of their mountains which made a very stylish gift for friends and relatives. We need to tie it in with our Christmas activities. Hand made candles...we are all into burning the candles with subtle perfumes...the ones which look soooo artistic. I think we could all help fund these events in some way , shape or form and maybe local businesses could come to the New Year's Eve fund raising party with something which would also suit our Chritmas buying?
"Mayor Ken Rollond said the council would set aside $80,000 but wanted other sources to come up with a total of $140,000."
Glenelg became a serious alternative venue to Victoria Square as we marched intot he new millennium. It encapsulated what Glenelg had become and I daresay other places around the state will also become serious rallying points on New Year's Eve. It's good and we do need to look at how the costs will be covered because a lot of people enjoy these NYE activities and celebrations and it helping our state mature.Glenelg is a popular place with tourists and probably those over Christmas would enjoy our NYE by the sea. Whether the government should foot the rest of the bill is a moot point. People would be very disappointed if the Glenelg celebrations didn't go ahead so maybe we need to look at NYE fund raising programmes. Something easy which would raise revenue. We have some very popular photogrpahs of our areas taken by professional photographers. Some of us have bought these phots to send overseas. A diary? A calendar? A set of Christmas cards? Would that raise enough funds? I can remember some lovely little chocolates bought in Switzerland with beautiful photos of their mountains which made a very stylish gift for friends and relatives. We need to tie it in with our Christmas activities. Hand made candles...we are all into burning the candles with subtle perfumes...the ones which look soooo artistic. I think we could all help fund these events in some way , shape or form and maybe local businesses could come to the New Year's Eve fund raising party with something which would also suit our Chritmas buying?
'Dead' climber alive
The Advertiser: 'Dead' climber alive :
"Lincoln Hall was found alive by fellow climbers, and is now reportedly being helped to safety."
What is the news doing? I am so glad he is alive but not half as glad as his family will be. They had been told. News can't be trusted anymore...and to report a death and then unreport it is odd indeed. No doubt there is a reason for this as there always is. We live in the age of the plausible explanation...but how can you confuse a death? Why are people's feelings messed around so much? He is a well known climber so we are really happy to hear this.
"Lincoln Hall was found alive by fellow climbers, and is now reportedly being helped to safety."
What is the news doing? I am so glad he is alive but not half as glad as his family will be. They had been told. News can't be trusted anymore...and to report a death and then unreport it is odd indeed. No doubt there is a reason for this as there always is. We live in the age of the plausible explanation...but how can you confuse a death? Why are people's feelings messed around so much? He is a well known climber so we are really happy to hear this.
Reward offered for information on tree vandals.
Reward offered for information on tree vandals. :"Herbicide was poured on the ghost gum earlier this month and it is unlikely it will survive."
I cannot imagine an Australian poisoning a gum tree even if this one is the birthplace of the Australian Labour Party. Our country is becoming quite horrible. There is a nastiness we we do not have which is becoming part of our daily life and workplace. Gum tree poisoning seems to be the thing at the moment. We have always lived with our gum trees. They are part of us and our landscape. I cannot see us poisoning them. An Austrlain would axe or chain saw a tree. Herbicide is not us. I hope they find out what the herbicide is and who did it because we need to save the tree. You see, Australians care about whether their trees die...and gum trees are us and there has been vandalism to some pretty significant trees lately. Why is that and why would we do that to our heritage and our landscape. I hope they can get to the bottom of this. Our koalas need the gum trees too...
Thursday, May 25, 2006
German training regime
World Cup Soccer:
"German soccer team coach Juergen Klinsmann has instigated a new training regime for his World Cup squad: repairing watches. The players have been signed up for classes in Switzerland, although no one knows what this will do for their chances."
They'll be ahead of themselves. They will be able to tell the time. They'll be focussed. They'll know about precision,patience and tolerance. They will also have a skill to call upon when their day job is over. Ingenious. Will it work??
"German soccer team coach Juergen Klinsmann has instigated a new training regime for his World Cup squad: repairing watches. The players have been signed up for classes in Switzerland, although no one knows what this will do for their chances."
They'll be ahead of themselves. They will be able to tell the time. They'll be focussed. They'll know about precision,patience and tolerance. They will also have a skill to call upon when their day job is over. Ingenious. Will it work??
Fresh fruit
Lunch time was interesting today. Six of us were eating lunch. After our sandwich/roll/salad we all got our fruit out. One lady had a persimmon from her tree and we were all jealous because it looked so juicy and delicious. Once lady kept cutting the brown bits from her supermarket apple and finally got a good bit in the middle. I had supermarket pears and they were nice but crunchy! Another man was trying to deal with the soft and brown bits on his supermarket apple and another man was eating a really juicy, healthy looking apple. We started talking about what fruit we grew and then how we sourced our fruit and veg and how fed up we were with poor quality "fresh" food.
So then we started swapping our ideas about where to shop for the freshest produce because it tasted better and kept better. We were also deciding whether we should plant more fruit trees and hadn't actually finished that conversation so we all have something to mull about. The difference in produce was astoundingly obvious. We couldn't have organised a better ad for fresh food!!
Chocolate may boost brain power.
Chocolate may boost brain power. :
"'These substances by themselves have previously been found to increase alertness and attention and what we have found is that by consuming chocolate you can get the stimulating effects, which then lead to increased mental performance.'"
A couple of cases needs to be shipped to the senate for afternoon delights.
"'These substances by themselves have previously been found to increase alertness and attention and what we have found is that by consuming chocolate you can get the stimulating effects, which then lead to increased mental performance.'"
A couple of cases needs to be shipped to the senate for afternoon delights.
'Do not call' laws introduced.
'Do not call' laws introduced. :
"The Communications Minister, Helen Coonan, says the Do Not Call Register will help deliver peace of mind to consumers who dislike disruptions from unsolicited calls.
The register will cost $33 million to establish."
$33 million? How much housing could we supply? How much food could we give to the hungry? What new hospital equipment could be purchased? We would be understandably ridiculed if we ran our budgets like this. Besides, the register should be a please call. The default should be Do not call. It's a travesty. Thank heavens normal people do not behave like this.
"The Communications Minister, Helen Coonan, says the Do Not Call Register will help deliver peace of mind to consumers who dislike disruptions from unsolicited calls.
The register will cost $33 million to establish."
$33 million? How much housing could we supply? How much food could we give to the hungry? What new hospital equipment could be purchased? We would be understandably ridiculed if we ran our budgets like this. Besides, the register should be a please call. The default should be Do not call. It's a travesty. Thank heavens normal people do not behave like this.
Abbott labels Labor MP 'snivelling grub'.
Abbott labels Labor MP 'snivelling grub'. :
"'I move that that snivelling grub over there be no further heard,' Mr Abbott said."
This is the level of debate of our leaders. Taking it back doesn't alter the fact that this is how we present arguments and discussions in Parliament. Our nuclear debate should be a real humdinger.
"'I move that that snivelling grub over there be no further heard,' Mr Abbott said."
This is the level of debate of our leaders. Taking it back doesn't alter the fact that this is how we present arguments and discussions in Parliament. Our nuclear debate should be a real humdinger.
Wednesday, May 24, 2006
Phone number sold for $3.65m
Phone number sold for $3.65m :
"At a charity event in the capital of Doha, a Qatari bidder paid $3.65 million for the mobile phone number 666-6666."
Thank heavens the money was going to charity otherwise I should have thought someone was a bit of a ding a ling.
"At a charity event in the capital of Doha, a Qatari bidder paid $3.65 million for the mobile phone number 666-6666."
Thank heavens the money was going to charity otherwise I should have thought someone was a bit of a ding a ling.
Clinton's reputation may sink his wife's presidential hopes
Scotsman.com Clinton's reputation may sink his wife's presidential hopes:
"'There's no question that it's a complicated candidacy for a lot of voters because of the history of that relationship and what they've been through,' said Leon Panetta, Mr Clinton's chief of staff from 1994 to 1997."
Mr. Clinton was a very good President. I did not want to know about his private life. That was foisted upon me. I do not want to know about anyone's whims and fancies and whatever occurred is between him and his wife and that is what a long term relationship is about. The real stuff of life and what you can or cannot take and who that person is really.Mr. Clinton is still a very popular person because he thinks and he cares. A politician cannot do anything. Everything is picked up and plastered in front of us. I hate it. It means we are losing some very good people who make great leaders because the ad hominem arguments hold weight these days. Who'd be a politician? To have assassinated a good president in public was unbelievable, to now make his wife suffer because of that public humiliation is so unjust. She was dragged through the mire at that time and yet, she had done nothing. Tells me she is one amazing lady with a lot of inner strength and courage. Nor did she run off and dump him. She doesn't look for the trite , shallow, easy answers. Hilary Clinton is a woman of substance. But where is the equity if what her husband was judged badly for is brought up yet again...and again ...and again and to the extent people cannot separate his actions from hers and they cannot see her as an individual? Who'd be a politician? Trying to destroy good people is not helping our world. It is denying us people who could be good for us. In 2006 a woman ought to be able to be judged independently of her husband...or are we still stuck in the 50s???
"'There's no question that it's a complicated candidacy for a lot of voters because of the history of that relationship and what they've been through,' said Leon Panetta, Mr Clinton's chief of staff from 1994 to 1997."
Mr. Clinton was a very good President. I did not want to know about his private life. That was foisted upon me. I do not want to know about anyone's whims and fancies and whatever occurred is between him and his wife and that is what a long term relationship is about. The real stuff of life and what you can or cannot take and who that person is really.Mr. Clinton is still a very popular person because he thinks and he cares. A politician cannot do anything. Everything is picked up and plastered in front of us. I hate it. It means we are losing some very good people who make great leaders because the ad hominem arguments hold weight these days. Who'd be a politician? To have assassinated a good president in public was unbelievable, to now make his wife suffer because of that public humiliation is so unjust. She was dragged through the mire at that time and yet, she had done nothing. Tells me she is one amazing lady with a lot of inner strength and courage. Nor did she run off and dump him. She doesn't look for the trite , shallow, easy answers. Hilary Clinton is a woman of substance. But where is the equity if what her husband was judged badly for is brought up yet again...and again ...and again and to the extent people cannot separate his actions from hers and they cannot see her as an individual? Who'd be a politician? Trying to destroy good people is not helping our world. It is denying us people who could be good for us. In 2006 a woman ought to be able to be judged independently of her husband...or are we still stuck in the 50s???
Plastic bags will still be banned by 2008
The Advertiser: Plastic bags will still be banned by 2008
: "SOUTH Australia will go forward with plans to ban plastic shopping bags by 2008, despite a report yesterday which claimed the bags were okay."
They are a menace; they do get left around, they do find their way into our natural resources. Thank heavens we are still going to bag the bag in this state, at least, because we have been doing a great job and we nearly have our project in the bag...the one we can reuse. Up there for thinking, Ms Gago. Thank you.
: "SOUTH Australia will go forward with plans to ban plastic shopping bags by 2008, despite a report yesterday which claimed the bags were okay."
They are a menace; they do get left around, they do find their way into our natural resources. Thank heavens we are still going to bag the bag in this state, at least, because we have been doing a great job and we nearly have our project in the bag...the one we can reuse. Up there for thinking, Ms Gago. Thank you.
Parties trade barbs over Indigenous abuse.
Parties trade barbs over Indigenous abuse. :
"'No member of the Opposition has ever or would ever say something like that. That implication ought to be withdrawn,' she said.
'It's a disgrace.'"
We are not resolving the issues of domestic violence, child abuse and violence in our communities. Our justice system and our way of doing things isn't working either. Our children are also vulnerable. I find it very difficult to take that we would single out aboriginal communities and treat them in such and insensitive manner. I very much doubt that we or they condone violence and child abuse. I don't think our society condones these things sand I do not think their tribal communities condone them. Some of the issues and problems they face have been brought about by us moving in with our habits and way of doing things and taking over their land. We haven't got a good track record in terms of how we have lived with the culture which was on this land long before us. It grieves me that , as a so called civilised society, we cannot accept and acknowledge many people have been working solidly on these issues for years in both cultures. It grieves me we cannot find a way of talking to each other and using the best of both systems to stem what is a problem for all Australians. There is nothing politically correct about asking ourselves whether we are dealing with all fo this in a civilised and thoughtful manner. Some of us are finding this deeply disturbing...because people in glass houses shouldn't throw stones.
"'No member of the Opposition has ever or would ever say something like that. That implication ought to be withdrawn,' she said.
'It's a disgrace.'"
We are not resolving the issues of domestic violence, child abuse and violence in our communities. Our justice system and our way of doing things isn't working either. Our children are also vulnerable. I find it very difficult to take that we would single out aboriginal communities and treat them in such and insensitive manner. I very much doubt that we or they condone violence and child abuse. I don't think our society condones these things sand I do not think their tribal communities condone them. Some of the issues and problems they face have been brought about by us moving in with our habits and way of doing things and taking over their land. We haven't got a good track record in terms of how we have lived with the culture which was on this land long before us. It grieves me that , as a so called civilised society, we cannot accept and acknowledge many people have been working solidly on these issues for years in both cultures. It grieves me we cannot find a way of talking to each other and using the best of both systems to stem what is a problem for all Australians. There is nothing politically correct about asking ourselves whether we are dealing with all fo this in a civilised and thoughtful manner. Some of us are finding this deeply disturbing...because people in glass houses shouldn't throw stones.
Premiers line up to reject nuclear plant.
Premiers line up to reject nuclear plant. :
"Premiers of eastern states have rejected any moves to build a nuclear power plant in their state, after a report released yesterday on likely sites."
Not many people are keen on the idea of nuclear power here. A lot of us live on the coast and the coast is also where amny of us holiday. The sites suggested would interfere with those two major aspects of Australian living. We are concerned about the financial costs and the costs in terms of radioactive waste and health problems. Some experts have brought us some useful information in the last 24 hours and we appreciate that. We don't have a big population and therefore alternative energy sources especially solar and wind would seem to be better options for us. What other nations want in terms of their energy needs is up to those nations to decide. While we debate nuclear, what are we not considering? Whatever else, we do need to address greenhouse emissions and pronto.
"Premiers of eastern states have rejected any moves to build a nuclear power plant in their state, after a report released yesterday on likely sites."
Not many people are keen on the idea of nuclear power here. A lot of us live on the coast and the coast is also where amny of us holiday. The sites suggested would interfere with those two major aspects of Australian living. We are concerned about the financial costs and the costs in terms of radioactive waste and health problems. Some experts have brought us some useful information in the last 24 hours and we appreciate that. We don't have a big population and therefore alternative energy sources especially solar and wind would seem to be better options for us. What other nations want in terms of their energy needs is up to those nations to decide. While we debate nuclear, what are we not considering? Whatever else, we do need to address greenhouse emissions and pronto.
Tuesday, May 23, 2006
Budweiser
Budweiser beer at the German World Cup? Is this a free enterprise global economy or what? Bet the Germans are pleased...they have such a dedication to the art of making properly brewed beer. I heard there is a German nun who is the best beer brewer in the world because German beer has to be made from proper organic ingredients. I guess the people who go to the World Cup will choose what they want to drink? Market forces? I have a feeling we'll all be eating and drinking the same things no matter where we live in the world and it is only a matter of time. Wanna bet how long? I am so glad I grew up when I did because regional dishes and flavours are one of life's gifts and it was a good reason to travel. Now the world comes to you but you never know when or how!
National drug strategy 'too moral'
National drug strategy 'too moral':
"The federal government's drug education strategy for schools is too moral and risks being irrelevant to young people experimenting with alcohol and illicit substances, a leading researcher says"
Maybe our own community attitude is too immoral? I don't think you would ask kids to take drugs or say it's okay? Would you actually adopt the stance of telling people to gamble, to over eat, to smoke...now, we don't seem to have a problem telling people not to smoke. We have made it "illegal" with out making it illegal. The do not smoke message doesn't take any reality into account. So, our stance ought to be don't. Competing with media images is another issue, true, but I think that is more than balanced out with the fact our young people are dead because of drugs or they have been executed and are facing death penalties because of drugs or long overseas jail sentences. So the media images balance themselves. If kids see that all as irrelevant then it is like the speeding and driving into tree, the drunk driving and the killing themselves and others in cars...if they will not listen they are going to have to continue with their field work. All we can do as responsible adults is say - don't do this to yourselves and try and persuade them it's not a good idea. I should imagine a lot of them now have dead friends. Kids are not silly. They behave in a silly fashion because we have given them no boundaries. There is nothing glamourous or exciting about someone who is drug dependant or whose life centres on drugs and maybe that's what the kids now need to hear. I think the whole point is we get it out there and we talk openly about it and we all discuss our views and the facts. Then everyone is better informed and people can talk freely.
"The federal government's drug education strategy for schools is too moral and risks being irrelevant to young people experimenting with alcohol and illicit substances, a leading researcher says"
Maybe our own community attitude is too immoral? I don't think you would ask kids to take drugs or say it's okay? Would you actually adopt the stance of telling people to gamble, to over eat, to smoke...now, we don't seem to have a problem telling people not to smoke. We have made it "illegal" with out making it illegal. The do not smoke message doesn't take any reality into account. So, our stance ought to be don't. Competing with media images is another issue, true, but I think that is more than balanced out with the fact our young people are dead because of drugs or they have been executed and are facing death penalties because of drugs or long overseas jail sentences. So the media images balance themselves. If kids see that all as irrelevant then it is like the speeding and driving into tree, the drunk driving and the killing themselves and others in cars...if they will not listen they are going to have to continue with their field work. All we can do as responsible adults is say - don't do this to yourselves and try and persuade them it's not a good idea. I should imagine a lot of them now have dead friends. Kids are not silly. They behave in a silly fashion because we have given them no boundaries. There is nothing glamourous or exciting about someone who is drug dependant or whose life centres on drugs and maybe that's what the kids now need to hear. I think the whole point is we get it out there and we talk openly about it and we all discuss our views and the facts. Then everyone is better informed and people can talk freely.
Nuclear debate a farce
Nuclear debate a farce:
"'The prime minister's creating one his great false debates, flying kites, making mischief, and covering up for the fact that he's done absolutely zip on climate change - nothing in the budget for it,' Mr Garrett told ABC radio.
'(He) abolishes the Australian Greenhouse Office. We've seen half a billion dollars worth of investment in wind farms and alternative technologies go overseas because of this government's lack of action."
About time Peter Garratt weighed in on the debate because if anyone can turn our fait accompli aka the liberal debate into a real debate - it is Peter Garratt and the other people out there who know a lot about nuclear issues. In this short article we have some facts and figures which can put us in the picture. It actually hadn't occurred to me that the "nuclear debate" ( we are having nuclear energy full stop end of story) could well be deflecting other issues , most noticeably we need to do better with renewable energy and do better with respect to global warming. These are issues which affect us. They are having an effect now. I hear Wollongong would make a nice site for a nuclear power station. Do the people of Wollongong agree? While we are busy thinking about nuclear energy and its ramifications, what are we not considering. Yes, Mr. Garratt. Tell us more because why else are you in parliament at this time? There is a reason and you know an awful lot.
"'The prime minister's creating one his great false debates, flying kites, making mischief, and covering up for the fact that he's done absolutely zip on climate change - nothing in the budget for it,' Mr Garrett told ABC radio.
'(He) abolishes the Australian Greenhouse Office. We've seen half a billion dollars worth of investment in wind farms and alternative technologies go overseas because of this government's lack of action."
About time Peter Garratt weighed in on the debate because if anyone can turn our fait accompli aka the liberal debate into a real debate - it is Peter Garratt and the other people out there who know a lot about nuclear issues. In this short article we have some facts and figures which can put us in the picture. It actually hadn't occurred to me that the "nuclear debate" ( we are having nuclear energy full stop end of story) could well be deflecting other issues , most noticeably we need to do better with renewable energy and do better with respect to global warming. These are issues which affect us. They are having an effect now. I hear Wollongong would make a nice site for a nuclear power station. Do the people of Wollongong agree? While we are busy thinking about nuclear energy and its ramifications, what are we not considering. Yes, Mr. Garratt. Tell us more because why else are you in parliament at this time? There is a reason and you know an awful lot.
Ditching plastic bags 'no real use'
Ditching plastic bags 'no real use' :
"The Government's economic advisory body has recommended ditching plans to wipe out more than five billion plastic bags a year, saying the costs may outweigh the benefits."
Before they were really convinced the plastic bags were a hazard and needed to go and were quite clear about the fact they were a menace. In the meantime supermarkets and other places have made a nice little profit selling the non recyclable bags which can be used and reused. The supermarkets certainly haven't made their target of a 50% reduction in plastic bag use. They have got to 45%, though. That's pretty good. What is really noticeable is you hardly see those plastic bags left around the place. The environment is a lot prettier and cleaner without them. I fail to see why we should abandon this idea since the bags were everywhere and looked unsightly and were a menace. Cost effectiveness? They haven't worked that out?? They should have done that BEFORE they got us all swapping over. I cannot believe we shall cop out on this because some people didn't look at the whole picture...who is losing money and why? That's probably at the bottom of this. It's true we do use the bags as a way of keeping our household rubbish under control. In the mean time I now have a bin for rubbish, one for recycling and one for green waste. So my household rubbish is far less. I think I could probably buy a bag of plastic bags for my household rubbish to make it easier on the bin people and the environment. Those bags are often biodegradable. I think we need to stop making people go east and then suddenly turning and facing west. I think we need to stop confusing people but most of all...I really don't think we need plastic bags. Most of us have swapped over now. We know what we are doing. What about the leaders?
"The Government's economic advisory body has recommended ditching plans to wipe out more than five billion plastic bags a year, saying the costs may outweigh the benefits."
Before they were really convinced the plastic bags were a hazard and needed to go and were quite clear about the fact they were a menace. In the meantime supermarkets and other places have made a nice little profit selling the non recyclable bags which can be used and reused. The supermarkets certainly haven't made their target of a 50% reduction in plastic bag use. They have got to 45%, though. That's pretty good. What is really noticeable is you hardly see those plastic bags left around the place. The environment is a lot prettier and cleaner without them. I fail to see why we should abandon this idea since the bags were everywhere and looked unsightly and were a menace. Cost effectiveness? They haven't worked that out?? They should have done that BEFORE they got us all swapping over. I cannot believe we shall cop out on this because some people didn't look at the whole picture...who is losing money and why? That's probably at the bottom of this. It's true we do use the bags as a way of keeping our household rubbish under control. In the mean time I now have a bin for rubbish, one for recycling and one for green waste. So my household rubbish is far less. I think I could probably buy a bag of plastic bags for my household rubbish to make it easier on the bin people and the environment. Those bags are often biodegradable. I think we need to stop making people go east and then suddenly turning and facing west. I think we need to stop confusing people but most of all...I really don't think we need plastic bags. Most of us have swapped over now. We know what we are doing. What about the leaders?
Monday, May 22, 2006
Dodgy DIY plagues our homes
The Advertiser: Dodgy DIY plagues our homes :
"Data from Archicentre, the building advisory service of the Royal Australian Institute of Architects, shows 34 per cent of the group's 4419 pre-purchase home inspections since 1994 reveal some form of illegal activity.
Faults include breaches of building regulations, poor and inadequate ventilation and electrical and plumbing work carried out by unlicensed workers."
I know my experience is not a valid sample. I accept that, but even so I am surprised to hear we have so much dodgy building going on because for years I have been driven crazy by do it yourselfers and renovators who are excruciatingly meticulous about how and when things are done and if they are employing others they are so on their case it's embarrassing. I should have thought our buildings would be extraordinarily perfect beyond perfection. Trades people come at a very high price now and the waiting and waiting drives you crazy. Took me four waits and several phone calls to get new cisterns in by a very reputable plumber. The fencing took two calls. The prices are outrageous and what we do around here is reccomend trades people for their work and prices. So anyone who doesn't come flush with funds would be driven into do it yourself for all the wrong reasons and if they have a pressing problem, then yes, I can understand it being less than perfect work. Again, money talks.
"Data from Archicentre, the building advisory service of the Royal Australian Institute of Architects, shows 34 per cent of the group's 4419 pre-purchase home inspections since 1994 reveal some form of illegal activity.
Faults include breaches of building regulations, poor and inadequate ventilation and electrical and plumbing work carried out by unlicensed workers."
I know my experience is not a valid sample. I accept that, but even so I am surprised to hear we have so much dodgy building going on because for years I have been driven crazy by do it yourselfers and renovators who are excruciatingly meticulous about how and when things are done and if they are employing others they are so on their case it's embarrassing. I should have thought our buildings would be extraordinarily perfect beyond perfection. Trades people come at a very high price now and the waiting and waiting drives you crazy. Took me four waits and several phone calls to get new cisterns in by a very reputable plumber. The fencing took two calls. The prices are outrageous and what we do around here is reccomend trades people for their work and prices. So anyone who doesn't come flush with funds would be driven into do it yourself for all the wrong reasons and if they have a pressing problem, then yes, I can understand it being less than perfect work. Again, money talks.
Phone Taps in US and Newsroom Spying in Germany
Scoop: Phone Taps in US and Newsroom Spying in Germany:
"Yesterday, ABC News posted a blog about a senior federal law enforcement official telling the broadcaster that the US government is tracking the phone numbers called by their reporters in an effort to root out confidential sources. It has not yet been confirmed whether these actions are directly linked to the exposure last week of how the National Security Agency (NSA) database in America is tracking the phone calls of hundreds of millions of Americans."
The American Government is doing it to track down terrorists and the German government is doing it to get the spies out of German media and who else is doing it and why are ordinary people's conversations so fascinating?? If you are trying to track down reporter sources then what is that all about and if you are listening to all the daily crap on the phone line in the hope you'll catch a terrorist...doesn't say much for their tactics does it? I really think we have lost it or this is all wobbly reporting probably from suspect sources! Why would you publicise that you are monitoring everyone? Defeats the purpose doesn't it? Whatever happened to stealth and clever clogs thinking?
"Yesterday, ABC News posted a blog about a senior federal law enforcement official telling the broadcaster that the US government is tracking the phone numbers called by their reporters in an effort to root out confidential sources. It has not yet been confirmed whether these actions are directly linked to the exposure last week of how the National Security Agency (NSA) database in America is tracking the phone calls of hundreds of millions of Americans."
The American Government is doing it to track down terrorists and the German government is doing it to get the spies out of German media and who else is doing it and why are ordinary people's conversations so fascinating?? If you are trying to track down reporter sources then what is that all about and if you are listening to all the daily crap on the phone line in the hope you'll catch a terrorist...doesn't say much for their tactics does it? I really think we have lost it or this is all wobbly reporting probably from suspect sources! Why would you publicise that you are monitoring everyone? Defeats the purpose doesn't it? Whatever happened to stealth and clever clogs thinking?
Opposition to announce tanks for all new homes.
Opposition to announce tanks for all new homes.:
"The Queensland Opposition says rainwater tanks will be installed in all new homes under its water policy to be announced today."
In the light of recent news, they had better make sure they are child proof. They cannot be enforced until that aspect of rain water tanks is dealt with. Collecting rainwater has been a practice here for decades and we should make it a normal part of any building, but we need to ensure everyone's safety. The ones in Queensland come with a rebate which is a good incentive to get them back into mainstream living.
"The Queensland Opposition says rainwater tanks will be installed in all new homes under its water policy to be announced today."
In the light of recent news, they had better make sure they are child proof. They cannot be enforced until that aspect of rain water tanks is dealt with. Collecting rainwater has been a practice here for decades and we should make it a normal part of any building, but we need to ensure everyone's safety. The ones in Queensland come with a rebate which is a good incentive to get them back into mainstream living.
Sexy smells may help trap toads.
Sexy smells may help trap toads.:
"'If it's an attractant we would be able to attract perhaps females in such numbers, that instead of having to go around and pick up one here and one there, we might be able to attract them together,' he said."
Bottling frog pheromones? Now, there's a thought. Will it catch all the unspuspecting female cane toads? Are we slaves to our sexuality? We'll see...and just imagine what they'll do with bottled human pheromones?!
"'If it's an attractant we would be able to attract perhaps females in such numbers, that instead of having to go around and pick up one here and one there, we might be able to attract them together,' he said."
Bottling frog pheromones? Now, there's a thought. Will it catch all the unspuspecting female cane toads? Are we slaves to our sexuality? We'll see...and just imagine what they'll do with bottled human pheromones?!
Sunday, May 21, 2006
Internet love: more click to click
Internet love: more click to click :
"She said 1000 people aged 18 to 80 were interviewed, with 13 per cent stating they had formed a romantic or a social friendship online. 'It is no longer just an urban myth that people are searching for love and friendships online, it is an Australian reality,' Dr Buzwell said."
All too busy working and meeting to stop and find love. We have become the Hitch Hikers Guide to the Galaxy. We are living the rat race and we have mice in charge. So, yes, look for love online inbetween typing all your docs and organising all your spreadsheets...bit of mobile porn, the sex theme park and there you go. Living the new millennium lifestyle.
"She said 1000 people aged 18 to 80 were interviewed, with 13 per cent stating they had formed a romantic or a social friendship online. 'It is no longer just an urban myth that people are searching for love and friendships online, it is an Australian reality,' Dr Buzwell said."
All too busy working and meeting to stop and find love. We have become the Hitch Hikers Guide to the Galaxy. We are living the rat race and we have mice in charge. So, yes, look for love online inbetween typing all your docs and organising all your spreadsheets...bit of mobile porn, the sex theme park and there you go. Living the new millennium lifestyle.
IR laws put miners at risk, say unions.
IR laws put miners at risk, say unions. :
"'That training is going to take place, but because of these new laws, I have broken the law, the management has broken the law.
'I think this is absurd.'"
The new IR laws have done exactly what we said...turned our successful work place relations into very dubious ones where workers and their rights are very vague. A good workplace is a safe and secure one because then people work without worrying and will haul together when necessary.
"'That training is going to take place, but because of these new laws, I have broken the law, the management has broken the law.
'I think this is absurd.'"
The new IR laws have done exactly what we said...turned our successful work place relations into very dubious ones where workers and their rights are very vague. A good workplace is a safe and secure one because then people work without worrying and will haul together when necessary.
First sex 'theme park' to open
First sex 'theme park' to open 24/7 :
"Amora: The Academy of Sex and Relationships, featuring 'high-tech and interactive exhibits together with new media displays', expects up to 600,000 visitors within its first year in the Trocadero Centre at Piccadilly Circus."
Dedicated to sex and relationships. Add it to your life with mobile porn and you'll be into high tech sex for sure.
"Amora: The Academy of Sex and Relationships, featuring 'high-tech and interactive exhibits together with new media displays', expects up to 600,000 visitors within its first year in the Trocadero Centre at Piccadilly Circus."
Dedicated to sex and relationships. Add it to your life with mobile porn and you'll be into high tech sex for sure.
ALP President backs army call
ALP President backs army call :
"The Federal Government has called for a national summit of state and territory leaders to address violence in some Aboriginal communities after a Northern Territory prosecutor went public with horror stories of child abuse.
Former Australian of the Year, Professor Fiona Stanley, called for army intervention and said the forces should be deployed to help build accommodation and other infrastructure."
We all have a role in preventing abuse because it is prevalent in all communities. The numbers of young women seeking shelter has increased, the number of people abusing children one way or another is hard to fathom but it exists everywhere. We have had some horrible abuse cases reported. It is time for us all to have a long hard look at what we are going to do about it. Substance abuse seems to factor in many of the cases as does positions of privilege. Poeple need to be able to live safe lives even if they are not happy ones at times. Accommodation, clean water, enough money to feed yourself and your family and then what sanctions to apply all need to be openly discussed and we all need to be working on it. People can help people and take the strain off.
"The Federal Government has called for a national summit of state and territory leaders to address violence in some Aboriginal communities after a Northern Territory prosecutor went public with horror stories of child abuse.
Former Australian of the Year, Professor Fiona Stanley, called for army intervention and said the forces should be deployed to help build accommodation and other infrastructure."
We all have a role in preventing abuse because it is prevalent in all communities. The numbers of young women seeking shelter has increased, the number of people abusing children one way or another is hard to fathom but it exists everywhere. We have had some horrible abuse cases reported. It is time for us all to have a long hard look at what we are going to do about it. Substance abuse seems to factor in many of the cases as does positions of privilege. Poeple need to be able to live safe lives even if they are not happy ones at times. Accommodation, clean water, enough money to feed yourself and your family and then what sanctions to apply all need to be openly discussed and we all need to be working on it. People can help people and take the strain off.
Saturday, May 20, 2006
Red Oak Beer - Winner
Real Beer Australia : Red Oak Boutique Beer Cafe
"It is the first time in seven years that a local brewery has taken top honors in the international competition which this year judged a record number of 974 beers from 31 countries.
The Grand Champion Trophy for 2006 was awarded last night to The Redoak Brewery of Sydney for its Redoak Special Reserve."
Well, Red Oak Beer took out the 2006 Australian Beer awards and seems to be a beer to look out for judging by this article and its website. It must be a special drop because it has been collecting awards left , right and centre. The other Australian Beer Awards are listed on this site. Tastes in beer are very much a regional thing....which is good because it gives us lots of choices!
Garry McDonald
Garry McDonald is a genius. He has brought us inspired and thinking comedy for years. He is now teaching us about depression by talking about his own battle with it. He is a legend, an icon and very much the embodiment of all that is Australia. The painting is a fitting tribute to him and no wonder it was the people's choice. We like talent and thought and in this photo we have it all two times over.
Nuclear power on way: PM
Nuclear power on way: PM :
"'It is cleaner and greener, and therefore some of the people who in the past have opposed it should support it."
See how quickly we debate things? That's it then. Decided. Another great liberal debate.
"'It is cleaner and greener, and therefore some of the people who in the past have opposed it should support it."
See how quickly we debate things? That's it then. Decided. Another great liberal debate.
Adelaide aims to be solar city of the future
The Advertiser: Adelaide aims to be solar city of the future :"We're going further, too, becoming the first state that will enshrine in law a 60 per cent reduction in greenhouse gases by 2050. SA is already leading the nation in wind generation, generating more wind power than all other States and Territories combined. We also have more than 45 per cent of the nation's grid-connected solar power."
We're walking on sunshine...oh-oh...You are the sunshine of my life...ah -ah... .aah... Doesn't Adelaide just make you want to sing? Truth is, if we make up our minds about something everyone does the right thing and we get this whole team spirit happening right across the state. We recycle, we save water, we have committed ourselves to solar power. The government has changed a number of government interests into conserving energy and power. Our shopping centres have gone green...and we are back on our bikes. On top of that we are out walking our dogs and putting our sneakers on to get our backsides into gear. As long as someone keeps the overall planning going we'll fall in because we like it. We like clean air, we don't like waste. We like fair. We just need to clean up the Torrens , then our money really will be where our mouth is! I can remember when we had decided we were all suffering from stress. So we got he oil burners and aromatherapy happening and the crystals. We got into the Tai Chi and then we learned how to make stress balls and we were all making different ones. Even the little kids were making them and giving them to their parents. My daughter gave me this amazing fish one made from layers of balloons and my sister gave me a purple one with rice in it. We were all into it...I know...but we have a great life here!!!
I wrote Da Vinci Code original
The Advertiser: I wrote Da Vinci Code original :
"In 1998, Mr Fardone sent his manuscript, Vision of the Holy Grail, to Transworld.
His story tells of a search for the Holy Grail in France and features many of the same themes and plot-lines as The Da Vinci Code, Mr Fardone claimed.
In a letter to Mr Fardone from Transworld, dated June 15, 1998, the publishing company said of his manuscript: 'We doubt we could make a commercial success of it.'"
I wish Enzo Fardone well. Given he sent his manuscript to Transworld in 1998 and now Dan Brown has published through Transworld, then this can only get more interesting as Mr. Fardone sues Dan Brown.
"In 1998, Mr Fardone sent his manuscript, Vision of the Holy Grail, to Transworld.
His story tells of a search for the Holy Grail in France and features many of the same themes and plot-lines as The Da Vinci Code, Mr Fardone claimed.
In a letter to Mr Fardone from Transworld, dated June 15, 1998, the publishing company said of his manuscript: 'We doubt we could make a commercial success of it.'"
I wish Enzo Fardone well. Given he sent his manuscript to Transworld in 1998 and now Dan Brown has published through Transworld, then this can only get more interesting as Mr. Fardone sues Dan Brown.
PM flags nuclear future
The Advertiser: PM flags nuclear future :
"Along with the sale of uranium to other nations, Mr Howard said it was also time for a proper debate on the use of nuclear energy in Australia."
Oh yes, we are all extremely excited about the prospect of a liberal debate on uranium issues. Meanwhile we'll continue to look forward to glowing in the dark. Yellow cake, anyone?
"Along with the sale of uranium to other nations, Mr Howard said it was also time for a proper debate on the use of nuclear energy in Australia."
Oh yes, we are all extremely excited about the prospect of a liberal debate on uranium issues. Meanwhile we'll continue to look forward to glowing in the dark. Yellow cake, anyone?
Underwater Uluru found
Underwater Uluru found off WA coast. :
"Oceanographers have discovered an underwater structure, the size and dimension of Uluru, off the coast of Augusta, in Western Australia's south-west.
The feature, which has been named Mt Gabi, lies one kilometre underwater and is 300 metres high and about five kilometres long."
I can't believe Mt. Gabi is as big as Uluru and we just haven't noticied it. We seem to map and examine everything and we have been researching everything there is to be researched. How can it be that big and we missed it???
"Oceanographers have discovered an underwater structure, the size and dimension of Uluru, off the coast of Augusta, in Western Australia's south-west.
The feature, which has been named Mt Gabi, lies one kilometre underwater and is 300 metres high and about five kilometres long."
I can't believe Mt. Gabi is as big as Uluru and we just haven't noticied it. We seem to map and examine everything and we have been researching everything there is to be researched. How can it be that big and we missed it???
Friday, May 19, 2006
Car-free city trial
The Advertiser: Car-free city trial:
"ADELAIDE'S heart should be made car-free on Sundays in a month-long experiment to rejuvenate the city centre, according to City of Adelaide Minister Jane Lomax-Smith.
She proposed the plan yesterday so people could experience what it would be like in a city of only pedestrians and cyclists."
YEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEESSSSSSSSSSSSSSS!!!!!!!!!!
"ADELAIDE'S heart should be made car-free on Sundays in a month-long experiment to rejuvenate the city centre, according to City of Adelaide Minister Jane Lomax-Smith.
She proposed the plan yesterday so people could experience what it would be like in a city of only pedestrians and cyclists."
YEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEESSSSSSSSSSSSSSS!!!!!!!!!!
Canberra to direct talks on climate
Canberra to direct talks on climate :
"One of the most pressing tasks would be to find ways to help developing nations stem their greenhouse emissions growth and set long-term frameworks for action, he said.
To that end, market mechanisms, such as carbon trading, would be a key theme of the discussions."
We do need to have global co operation and collaboration. We all breathe the same air. It's odd there will be no binding targets but perhaps the choice of words needs to be more carefully considered. Everyone can co operate according to the level of support within their country and given this is a global issue and air and climate change are with us all, I do not think people will be against it unless they are not feeling well. We have to do something now and we have to look after our home now. Systems and education, raising awareness and rehabilitating ourselves might cost money and so some countries might have trouble implementing structures. It would seem clear then that we need to have realistic, achievable goals which have been negotiated at the table. Goals which will change things but which everyone can suscribe to and then some countries might be able to do better than others. Team effort, folks.
"One of the most pressing tasks would be to find ways to help developing nations stem their greenhouse emissions growth and set long-term frameworks for action, he said.
To that end, market mechanisms, such as carbon trading, would be a key theme of the discussions."
We do need to have global co operation and collaboration. We all breathe the same air. It's odd there will be no binding targets but perhaps the choice of words needs to be more carefully considered. Everyone can co operate according to the level of support within their country and given this is a global issue and air and climate change are with us all, I do not think people will be against it unless they are not feeling well. We have to do something now and we have to look after our home now. Systems and education, raising awareness and rehabilitating ourselves might cost money and so some countries might have trouble implementing structures. It would seem clear then that we need to have realistic, achievable goals which have been negotiated at the table. Goals which will change things but which everyone can suscribe to and then some countries might be able to do better than others. Team effort, folks.
Sophie gives doctors the thumbs up
Sophie gives doctors the thumbs up:
"'Her recovery has been remarkable. She gave me a thumbs up. She's talking to Dad and chatting like a five-year-old girl,' Dr Taitz said.
'She's an incredibly tough little person.'"
This little girl, who has already suffered so much, and then was hit by another car 3 years later has taught us all a big lesson. We are all so in awe of her . She is so little , she has been through so much pain. She has not succumbed and she bears no malice. Her little spirit is so much stronger than all of ours because she fights the most horrendous blows to her body and yet she is always positive and always forgiving. Our lives are quite changed because we know about her but we do not for a moment think she should have to suffer like this. She has made us so very grateful, she has made us so proud and she has touched us all. I bet her parents are so relieved.
"'Her recovery has been remarkable. She gave me a thumbs up. She's talking to Dad and chatting like a five-year-old girl,' Dr Taitz said.
'She's an incredibly tough little person.'"
This little girl, who has already suffered so much, and then was hit by another car 3 years later has taught us all a big lesson. We are all so in awe of her . She is so little , she has been through so much pain. She has not succumbed and she bears no malice. Her little spirit is so much stronger than all of ours because she fights the most horrendous blows to her body and yet she is always positive and always forgiving. Our lives are quite changed because we know about her but we do not for a moment think she should have to suffer like this. She has made us so very grateful, she has made us so proud and she has touched us all. I bet her parents are so relieved.
Condolences flow over Kovco blunder
Condolences flow over Kovco blunder :
"'Even though your Dad came to Australia with the mix-up, he was looked after by my brother at the time,' she told Ms Sinanovic in a three-way conversation on community station Radio RPH.
'We think about you all the time. We know what the mix-up was like and it was bad for us and we understand how bad it would be for you as well.'
Pte Kovco's father-in-law David Small said his family shared Ms Sinanovic's family's pain."
Well, it would appear that a quick thinking and innovative radio station has come up with a viable and compassionate way of trying to resolve the indignity and lack of humanity over the Pte. Kovko and Juso Sinanovic horror story. It really is horrible, but the radio station has thought to connect the two grieving families so that our community could honour them and treat them as though they mean something and have feelings. It would appear both sides have appreciated the chance to speak directly with each other. Thank goodness the radio station thought to salve the wounds. Community radio really is about the community and we are the community and we want these people to know we care. I wish I had been able to hear it.
"'Even though your Dad came to Australia with the mix-up, he was looked after by my brother at the time,' she told Ms Sinanovic in a three-way conversation on community station Radio RPH.
'We think about you all the time. We know what the mix-up was like and it was bad for us and we understand how bad it would be for you as well.'
Pte Kovco's father-in-law David Small said his family shared Ms Sinanovic's family's pain."
Well, it would appear that a quick thinking and innovative radio station has come up with a viable and compassionate way of trying to resolve the indignity and lack of humanity over the Pte. Kovko and Juso Sinanovic horror story. It really is horrible, but the radio station has thought to connect the two grieving families so that our community could honour them and treat them as though they mean something and have feelings. It would appear both sides have appreciated the chance to speak directly with each other. Thank goodness the radio station thought to salve the wounds. Community radio really is about the community and we are the community and we want these people to know we care. I wish I had been able to hear it.
Benzene in soft drinks 'no health risk'
News in Science - Benzene in soft drinks 'no health risk' - :
"The spokesperson says someone would need to drink more than 20 litres of a drink to consume an amount of benzene equal to the amount breathed from city air in a day."
Tends to suggest we should bloomin' well clean up our air! I don't want soft drinks with benzine and I do not want air with more of it either. That soft drinks have less than the air we breathe is not a reason to drink the soft drinks.
"The spokesperson says someone would need to drink more than 20 litres of a drink to consume an amount of benzene equal to the amount breathed from city air in a day."
Tends to suggest we should bloomin' well clean up our air! I don't want soft drinks with benzine and I do not want air with more of it either. That soft drinks have less than the air we breathe is not a reason to drink the soft drinks.
Nanotechnology gets up close and personal
News in Science - Nanotechnology gets up close and personal - :
"Nanoparticles are generally those under 100 nanometres across and manufacturers are not required to label products containing them.
And there is some concern among scientists that such tiny particles may have toxic characteristics, yet there is limited scientific information available on their safety."
I've just read this article on nano particles in personal products and for starters it's news to me that we have products with nanoparticles. My reaction is I do not want nano particles in personal products. The article makes it obvious to me that we do not know what we are talking about. We don't really know what they do, we don't really know why we are using them, we do not really know what the upshot will be. There is reference to the fact that the fullerenes in anti ageing creams have been found in studies to be toxic to human liver cells. I think we need to put the brakes on and take a long hard look at what we are doing. If the experts cannot clarify it to me, then they do not know yet what they are talking about it. Let's be a little less reckless and get the facts first, shall we?
"Nanoparticles are generally those under 100 nanometres across and manufacturers are not required to label products containing them.
And there is some concern among scientists that such tiny particles may have toxic characteristics, yet there is limited scientific information available on their safety."
I've just read this article on nano particles in personal products and for starters it's news to me that we have products with nanoparticles. My reaction is I do not want nano particles in personal products. The article makes it obvious to me that we do not know what we are talking about. We don't really know what they do, we don't really know why we are using them, we do not really know what the upshot will be. There is reference to the fact that the fullerenes in anti ageing creams have been found in studies to be toxic to human liver cells. I think we need to put the brakes on and take a long hard look at what we are doing. If the experts cannot clarify it to me, then they do not know yet what they are talking about it. Let's be a little less reckless and get the facts first, shall we?
Thursday, May 18, 2006
Nelson fury over new Kovco bungle
Nelson fury over new Kovco bungle :
"It was the third serious Defence blunder relating to Kovco, including contradictory accounts of his final moments, the bungled return of his body and now the loss and leaking of sensitive details of his death."
There is something fundamentally wrong with this whole sad tale and we know it. The story keeps coming back to us, as it will, until the wrongs are righted and the truth is out, at least to the family. In my experience things like this happen when fundamental absolutes are broken and then one person becomes the focus of it. In this case it is to do with Iraq and the truth. The family of Jake Kovko and the family of the Bosnian who was sent here accidentally have suffered one administrative bungle after another. The message is quite clear. To a bureaucracy invading another country the people who are sent there have no dignity. No one is actually responsable for them and they are very much on their own. You see, no one owns anybody anymore except the families and thus we are constantly confronted with Jake Kovko who was so young, so strong and had so much to live for being a bureaucratic bungle and his family having one intolerable mistake foisted on them after another. We aren't saying anything but our hearts are feeling so much for this family and they way in which it is being treated. I am writing now because I wouldn't want them to think we haven't noticed their universe has been so severely disturbed and we care very much about how they are being treated. We are getting a very clear picture of how much we are valued as the ordinary citizen. What Murdoch thinks about Howard is more important than righting these outrageous wrongs. Apologies are pointless. This treatment of our citizens is untenable. This increase in a family's grief is untenable. We accept and understand the army may have to be careful about what it says and does because it is on active operations, that part of it is acceptable. The rest is plain callous. Our government is rather short on good human relations.
"It was the third serious Defence blunder relating to Kovco, including contradictory accounts of his final moments, the bungled return of his body and now the loss and leaking of sensitive details of his death."
There is something fundamentally wrong with this whole sad tale and we know it. The story keeps coming back to us, as it will, until the wrongs are righted and the truth is out, at least to the family. In my experience things like this happen when fundamental absolutes are broken and then one person becomes the focus of it. In this case it is to do with Iraq and the truth. The family of Jake Kovko and the family of the Bosnian who was sent here accidentally have suffered one administrative bungle after another. The message is quite clear. To a bureaucracy invading another country the people who are sent there have no dignity. No one is actually responsable for them and they are very much on their own. You see, no one owns anybody anymore except the families and thus we are constantly confronted with Jake Kovko who was so young, so strong and had so much to live for being a bureaucratic bungle and his family having one intolerable mistake foisted on them after another. We aren't saying anything but our hearts are feeling so much for this family and they way in which it is being treated. I am writing now because I wouldn't want them to think we haven't noticed their universe has been so severely disturbed and we care very much about how they are being treated. We are getting a very clear picture of how much we are valued as the ordinary citizen. What Murdoch thinks about Howard is more important than righting these outrageous wrongs. Apologies are pointless. This treatment of our citizens is untenable. This increase in a family's grief is untenable. We accept and understand the army may have to be careful about what it says and does because it is on active operations, that part of it is acceptable. The rest is plain callous. Our government is rather short on good human relations.
High sugar prices push up CSR profits.
High sugar prices push up CSR profits. :
"The manufacturing and production company CSR says increased sugar prices have pushed up profits.
CSR has revealed its net profit for the 12 months to the end of March was up nearly 17 per cent to $305 million.
Its financial report shows sugar trading revenue rose more than 42 per cent because of good sugar prices and growing conditions."
Of course increased prices will create a bigger profit!! That is what it is about. Bigger profits, people working harder to create greater productivity and the ownwers and shareholders reap the benefits. The consumer and the worker are just all part of the profit before people paradigm.
"The manufacturing and production company CSR says increased sugar prices have pushed up profits.
CSR has revealed its net profit for the 12 months to the end of March was up nearly 17 per cent to $305 million.
Its financial report shows sugar trading revenue rose more than 42 per cent because of good sugar prices and growing conditions."
Of course increased prices will create a bigger profit!! That is what it is about. Bigger profits, people working harder to create greater productivity and the ownwers and shareholders reap the benefits. The consumer and the worker are just all part of the profit before people paradigm.
Aboriginal leaders excluded from violence summit.
Aboriginal leaders excluded from violence summit. :
"Federal Indigenous Affairs Minister Mal Brough says Aboriginal leaders will not be invited to a national summit on the violence in Indigenous communities.
Premiers and chief ministers will be asked to attend the summit to be held before the end of June."
That is ridiculous, absolutely ridiculous.
"Federal Indigenous Affairs Minister Mal Brough says Aboriginal leaders will not be invited to a national summit on the violence in Indigenous communities.
Premiers and chief ministers will be asked to attend the summit to be held before the end of June."
That is ridiculous, absolutely ridiculous.
Wednesday, May 17, 2006
Green fireball 'space junk or meteor'
Green fireball 'space junk or meteor' :
"A 'GREEN fireball' seen streaking across southeast Queensland skies was either a meteor or space junk, a space expert said today."
They seem to be opting for the space junk. They can send missions to the space station, they can Google the planet, they can photograph universes and see a universe eating
another. They can photograph mars and venus...so how come they can't tell space junk from a meteor?? We get told when meteors are coming ...so what is going on , guys?
"A 'GREEN fireball' seen streaking across southeast Queensland skies was either a meteor or space junk, a space expert said today."
They seem to be opting for the space junk. They can send missions to the space station, they can Google the planet, they can photograph universes and see a universe eating
another. They can photograph mars and venus...so how come they can't tell space junk from a meteor?? We get told when meteors are coming ...so what is going on , guys?
Was it Jill the Ripper?
Was it Jill the Ripper? :
"JACK the Ripper could well be a Jill.
In a bid to crack the identity of one of the greatest murder mysteries of all time, technology developed in Australia has tested 118-year-old DNA the notorious serial killer may have left behind and built a partial female profile."
I guess eventually the truth will out for we have examined and pondered for long enough and new technology is helping. It's been a case which has intrigued us all for years and now it might be Mary Pearcey. A good conspiracist might say that they'd blame the woman to save the identity of a man who ought not yet be publicly identified...I wonder. This case has been so intriguing especially since it has been unsolved for so long. Someone has to know!!!
"JACK the Ripper could well be a Jill.
In a bid to crack the identity of one of the greatest murder mysteries of all time, technology developed in Australia has tested 118-year-old DNA the notorious serial killer may have left behind and built a partial female profile."
I guess eventually the truth will out for we have examined and pondered for long enough and new technology is helping. It's been a case which has intrigued us all for years and now it might be Mary Pearcey. A good conspiracist might say that they'd blame the woman to save the identity of a man who ought not yet be publicly identified...I wonder. This case has been so intriguing especially since it has been unsolved for so long. Someone has to know!!!
Half of defence munitions 'useless'
Half of defence munitions 'useless' :
"THE Defence Department has admitted that around half the stock of bombs, missiles and other ammunition it holds is not serviceable.
And at least $300 million worth of the problem ordnance cannot be fixed, the department has told the Auditor-General's office."
I am not actually sorry we cannot bomb peole. I actually find it really horrible we stock such things, but then I am called naive. I think if you don't have weapons you can hurt others and if you don't have big weapons you cannot do wholesale damage. I think we are awful for having these things.
But why are our weapons useless or not serviceable and what is the matter with us? Is it because we are buying rubbish or faulty goods? Who is spending vast quantities of money on rubbish? I can't believe the amount of money we are spending to try and kill other people....and if we don't know how to purchase and maintain the stuff, why spend the money???
"THE Defence Department has admitted that around half the stock of bombs, missiles and other ammunition it holds is not serviceable.
And at least $300 million worth of the problem ordnance cannot be fixed, the department has told the Auditor-General's office."
I am not actually sorry we cannot bomb peole. I actually find it really horrible we stock such things, but then I am called naive. I think if you don't have weapons you can hurt others and if you don't have big weapons you cannot do wholesale damage. I think we are awful for having these things.
But why are our weapons useless or not serviceable and what is the matter with us? Is it because we are buying rubbish or faulty goods? Who is spending vast quantities of money on rubbish? I can't believe the amount of money we are spending to try and kill other people....and if we don't know how to purchase and maintain the stuff, why spend the money???
More young women seeking shelter
The Advertiser: More young women seeking shelter :
"'These young women are fleeing violence, caught up in drugs or are being exploited.'"
Well, women are not going to make it to the top if they are being hampered like this in their young lives. If more younger women are seeking refuge we need to get to the heart of the problem, shift our societal values and redress what is occurring. The self harm is a worry.
"'These young women are fleeing violence, caught up in drugs or are being exploited.'"
Well, women are not going to make it to the top if they are being hampered like this in their young lives. If more younger women are seeking refuge we need to get to the heart of the problem, shift our societal values and redress what is occurring. The self harm is a worry.
Nation's first female billionaire
The Advertiser: Nation's first female billionaire :
"She was already Australia's richest woman, but she now joins 21 men in the billionaire's club and moves into the top 10 of the nation's richest citizens, according to BRW magazine's annual wealth list.
Like table topping James Packer, whose worth is put at $7.1 billion, Ms Rinehart not only inherited a fortune but is doing something with it."
It was always going to be because she is very determined. Lang Hancock , her father , was so well known to us as is her stepmother Rose. Gina Rinehart is someone to celebrate at the moment because we find it very hard to get credible women with staying power at the top. Our women seem to lose it somewhere along the way and that is unfortunate. Gina Rinehart has had to build herself up and she has had to work hard for her achievements. It would be so nice if we could have a woman at the top whom we admire and value. I guess what she does with her billions will be the next test of her grit and character. We have a lot of incredible women but they don't get the support men do at the top. They also seem to buckle under attack and yet our women are not faint hearted. Ms. Rinehart has had to really apply herself and use all her skills to get where she is so it is something to be valued and acknowledged.
"She was already Australia's richest woman, but she now joins 21 men in the billionaire's club and moves into the top 10 of the nation's richest citizens, according to BRW magazine's annual wealth list.
Like table topping James Packer, whose worth is put at $7.1 billion, Ms Rinehart not only inherited a fortune but is doing something with it."
It was always going to be because she is very determined. Lang Hancock , her father , was so well known to us as is her stepmother Rose. Gina Rinehart is someone to celebrate at the moment because we find it very hard to get credible women with staying power at the top. Our women seem to lose it somewhere along the way and that is unfortunate. Gina Rinehart has had to build herself up and she has had to work hard for her achievements. It would be so nice if we could have a woman at the top whom we admire and value. I guess what she does with her billions will be the next test of her grit and character. We have a lot of incredible women but they don't get the support men do at the top. They also seem to buckle under attack and yet our women are not faint hearted. Ms. Rinehart has had to really apply herself and use all her skills to get where she is so it is something to be valued and acknowledged.
Tuesday, May 16, 2006
Working mothers have better health
Working mothers have better health :
"But the results of a study that followed more than 2600 British women for nearly 30 years suggest that women juggling the multiple roles of wife or partner, mother and worker had better longer-term health than stay-at-home mums or childless women.
Women with the multiple 'roles' of worker, wife and mother were also less likely to become obese, compared with those who stayed at home."
Well, I guess we'd better keep working then , shall we since it is doing us all such a world of good. How come retired women are all smiles and their skin is healthier and they can laugh again? I don't think it's as straigh forward as it appears here. Some women become really frazzled by trying to balance home and work. Some have the terrible tearing of their lives between work expectations and family. Some get depressed. Our mothers and grandmothers were living quite long lives and were quite hail and hearty though frail in old age. We seem to have all sorts of medical ailments and breast cancer to contend with. I should reallly like to see this analysed fully. Working women probably look after themselves better in terms of looks but many feel trapped and miserable. Perhaps like stay at home mums felt trapped and miserable. Some work is good. I guess it would come down to that thing called balance.
"But the results of a study that followed more than 2600 British women for nearly 30 years suggest that women juggling the multiple roles of wife or partner, mother and worker had better longer-term health than stay-at-home mums or childless women.
Women with the multiple 'roles' of worker, wife and mother were also less likely to become obese, compared with those who stayed at home."
Well, I guess we'd better keep working then , shall we since it is doing us all such a world of good. How come retired women are all smiles and their skin is healthier and they can laugh again? I don't think it's as straigh forward as it appears here. Some women become really frazzled by trying to balance home and work. Some have the terrible tearing of their lives between work expectations and family. Some get depressed. Our mothers and grandmothers were living quite long lives and were quite hail and hearty though frail in old age. We seem to have all sorts of medical ailments and breast cancer to contend with. I should reallly like to see this analysed fully. Working women probably look after themselves better in terms of looks but many feel trapped and miserable. Perhaps like stay at home mums felt trapped and miserable. Some work is good. I guess it would come down to that thing called balance.
Sacked for fixing a pothole
The Advertiser: Sacked for fixing a pothole :
"The two men filled in the pothole last week in the driveway at the entrance to the Roseworthy Hotel.
But because the pothole was 30cm inside private land, the council determined it was 'unauthorised work' and was 'gross misconduct' by the men."
Judging from a distance is very hard but this seems awfully hard. Are the workers difficult? Were they just looking for a way to release them from their jobs? Given they have been employed for 8 years at the same place, then that seems unlikely. If the workers filled in the pothole, isn't that a nice thing, even if it did turn out to be on private property? Wouldn't people have been thanked before for helping out? I don't understand this new Australia. We don't talk to people. We don't thank people. We don't value people. Couldn't the council say we now have to be careful about what is our land and what is private property? Talking to people seems to have gone by the board and then people find themselves in trouble with no way out. When you've worked well fro years, why would you suddenly be judged incompetent? The truth is, who is going to be able to work under these conditions and who will actually work? People won't do anything incase they are wrong. We need some sense .
"The two men filled in the pothole last week in the driveway at the entrance to the Roseworthy Hotel.
But because the pothole was 30cm inside private land, the council determined it was 'unauthorised work' and was 'gross misconduct' by the men."
Judging from a distance is very hard but this seems awfully hard. Are the workers difficult? Were they just looking for a way to release them from their jobs? Given they have been employed for 8 years at the same place, then that seems unlikely. If the workers filled in the pothole, isn't that a nice thing, even if it did turn out to be on private property? Wouldn't people have been thanked before for helping out? I don't understand this new Australia. We don't talk to people. We don't thank people. We don't value people. Couldn't the council say we now have to be careful about what is our land and what is private property? Talking to people seems to have gone by the board and then people find themselves in trouble with no way out. When you've worked well fro years, why would you suddenly be judged incompetent? The truth is, who is going to be able to work under these conditions and who will actually work? People won't do anything incase they are wrong. We need some sense .
Computer failure cause commuter confusion
The Advertiser: Computer failure cause commuter confusion :
"Three train drivers who were stood down yesterday for allegedly driving through red signals will resume work after it was found the mistake was not driver error, but the software problem.
TransAdelaide general manager Bill Watson last night insisted the problem 'doesn't affect commuter safety'."
Some people became aware of the problem with trains and were lucky enough to be able to use buses as the alternative means of transport. Are you sure computers are making our lives easier? We seem to have more and better problems. We seem to have massive waste of people and resources and the inconveniences are mounting up. Perhaps we are all too used to it and then do not manage the interruptions very well. There has to be a way of testing new software before it becomes implemented system wide. There also has to be a way of letting the public know when there is a big change in software in a significant structure like banks, hospitals, transport. I feel sorry for the guys who were stood down. It would have been quite traumatic for them. We need a structure which forewarns us of testing and implementation.
"Three train drivers who were stood down yesterday for allegedly driving through red signals will resume work after it was found the mistake was not driver error, but the software problem.
TransAdelaide general manager Bill Watson last night insisted the problem 'doesn't affect commuter safety'."
Some people became aware of the problem with trains and were lucky enough to be able to use buses as the alternative means of transport. Are you sure computers are making our lives easier? We seem to have more and better problems. We seem to have massive waste of people and resources and the inconveniences are mounting up. Perhaps we are all too used to it and then do not manage the interruptions very well. There has to be a way of testing new software before it becomes implemented system wide. There also has to be a way of letting the public know when there is a big change in software in a significant structure like banks, hospitals, transport. I feel sorry for the guys who were stood down. It would have been quite traumatic for them. We need a structure which forewarns us of testing and implementation.
Monday, May 15, 2006
Australia in grip of diabetes epidemic
Australia in grip of diabetes epidemic: study. :
"Researchers say Australia is suffering from a diabetes epidemic, with 100,000 new cases every year.
A new study has also found the illness is caused by lifestyle factors like obesity and poor diet, and is costing taxpayers $3 billion every year."
Overweight is often caused by stress, distress and feelings of inadequacy. If it's coming in younger people then our clever country is failing to be clever again. The haves have got it all...and too much of it. Way too much. When you have everything you are not motivated to go out foraging, nor do you feel the need. It's all there and you deserve it. Over eating is misery and overweight is triple misery. We have a nation of very miserable people . So, while we have it all, why are we so miserable? It is our lifestyle. You have to keep doing, doing , doing and you have to keep going, going, going. Fit and healthy people have time to eat, drink, be merry, act, react, cook, shop...in short...they have a life. At the moment our lives are dominated by long work hours and interminable sitting on one chair or another and this belief we have to work massive days and all the time. Overeating is how people insulate themselves against unpleasant onslaughts. It's very slow suicide and our smug leaders need to realise their people have been getting fatter and fatter since we have been so called prospering. You may have been. We are not.
"Researchers say Australia is suffering from a diabetes epidemic, with 100,000 new cases every year.
A new study has also found the illness is caused by lifestyle factors like obesity and poor diet, and is costing taxpayers $3 billion every year."
Overweight is often caused by stress, distress and feelings of inadequacy. If it's coming in younger people then our clever country is failing to be clever again. The haves have got it all...and too much of it. Way too much. When you have everything you are not motivated to go out foraging, nor do you feel the need. It's all there and you deserve it. Over eating is misery and overweight is triple misery. We have a nation of very miserable people . So, while we have it all, why are we so miserable? It is our lifestyle. You have to keep doing, doing , doing and you have to keep going, going, going. Fit and healthy people have time to eat, drink, be merry, act, react, cook, shop...in short...they have a life. At the moment our lives are dominated by long work hours and interminable sitting on one chair or another and this belief we have to work massive days and all the time. Overeating is how people insulate themselves against unpleasant onslaughts. It's very slow suicide and our smug leaders need to realise their people have been getting fatter and fatter since we have been so called prospering. You may have been. We are not.
Belle du Seigneur
At 1110 pages, Belle du Seigneur is not for the faint hearted reader. Albert Cohen has such a wonderful way with words, thought, perspective, emotions, observations and characterisations. It is such a comprehensive novel and I have been entranced since March reading it. It didn't worry me I had to take so long reading it because I do not have a lot of time for reading and it was a marathon. Its mood changes. It can be very lyrical, exceedingly hilarious, very intellectual, very down to earth, extremely esoteric and then very normal. It's just so clever and a real reading feast. He brings it all to the most moving conclusion and in the meantime you have learned a lot about people, love, life, politics, living. The characterisations are painted in great detail and for me that was the ultimate pleasure...that and how it unfolded so carefully, so unusually and yet with such power. I give you the two reviews, in French and English, on Amazon because it is truly worth the effort and has now become the best book I have ever read.
Amazon.fr
Amazon.ca (English)
Greenhouse gas growth 'at record'
The Advertiser: Greenhouse gas growth 'at record' :
"'This is a clear signal that fossil fuels are having an impact on greenhouse gas concentrations in a way we haven't seen in the past,' Dr Fraser said.
Synthetic greenhouse gases, including hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), perfluorocarbons (PFCs) and sulfur hexafluoride (SF6), displayed a strong increasing trend."
Greenhouse gases have grown four years in a row which is apparently unusual. We haven't had an increase in methane. The scientists constantly bring their findings before us and they keep making some interpretations to make it easier for us, but we keep ignoring them. What are we going to do about this? Why are we refusing to clean up our air, the very thing which sustains us? Why would we deliberately pollute our home? On the goodside we are decreasing the ozone depleting gases. It's not something one nation can fix. We all have to haul together on this because we all share the same air. What's the matter with us?
"'This is a clear signal that fossil fuels are having an impact on greenhouse gas concentrations in a way we haven't seen in the past,' Dr Fraser said.
Synthetic greenhouse gases, including hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), perfluorocarbons (PFCs) and sulfur hexafluoride (SF6), displayed a strong increasing trend."
Greenhouse gases have grown four years in a row which is apparently unusual. We haven't had an increase in methane. The scientists constantly bring their findings before us and they keep making some interpretations to make it easier for us, but we keep ignoring them. What are we going to do about this? Why are we refusing to clean up our air, the very thing which sustains us? Why would we deliberately pollute our home? On the goodside we are decreasing the ozone depleting gases. It's not something one nation can fix. We all have to haul together on this because we all share the same air. What's the matter with us?
Feds seek tougher cannabis laws
Feds seek tougher cannabis laws :
"Flanked by state and territory ministers in Perth, federal parliamentary secretary for health Christopher Pyne said the national strategy on cannabis would target production, supply and use, and focus on reducing the public acceptability of the drug."
A lot of people do see it as okay and don't think there is a problem and that it is to be expected, especially with the young. I am always a lone voice. I am the one who is mad because I do not endorse it especially the new type which is a lot stronger and is creating so many problems with people's minds. Our young ones get into dire straits overseas because of our attitude here and that is so very unfortunate. Changing public opinion is probably about getting better information out there about what we are dealing with, what the effects are and why it's undesirable. We hit smokers really hard but we do little to combat the use of drugs and alcohol. No sense in one section of the community being concerned if the bulk of people cannot see the problem.
"Flanked by state and territory ministers in Perth, federal parliamentary secretary for health Christopher Pyne said the national strategy on cannabis would target production, supply and use, and focus on reducing the public acceptability of the drug."
A lot of people do see it as okay and don't think there is a problem and that it is to be expected, especially with the young. I am always a lone voice. I am the one who is mad because I do not endorse it especially the new type which is a lot stronger and is creating so many problems with people's minds. Our young ones get into dire straits overseas because of our attitude here and that is so very unfortunate. Changing public opinion is probably about getting better information out there about what we are dealing with, what the effects are and why it's undesirable. We hit smokers really hard but we do little to combat the use of drugs and alcohol. No sense in one section of the community being concerned if the bulk of people cannot see the problem.
Sunday, May 14, 2006
BBC mistakes cabbie for computer expert.
BBC mistakes cabbie for computer expert. :
"But as soon as he had arrived at the BBC building, an excitable assistant had bundled him into the studio and equipped him with a clip-on microphone before he had a chance to protest.
It was only a few seconds before the mistake became evident and the cabbie was taken off the air."
I love stories like this, where someone who is over enthusiastic messes up the aplomb of a programme and the innocent is whizzed into the heady heights of fame. No harm done...and I can imagine some viewers who are still chuckling. It's hilarious. So British!!
"But as soon as he had arrived at the BBC building, an excitable assistant had bundled him into the studio and equipped him with a clip-on microphone before he had a chance to protest.
It was only a few seconds before the mistake became evident and the cabbie was taken off the air."
I love stories like this, where someone who is over enthusiastic messes up the aplomb of a programme and the innocent is whizzed into the heady heights of fame. No harm done...and I can imagine some viewers who are still chuckling. It's hilarious. So British!!
Govt eases digital copyright laws
Govt eases digital copyright laws :
"Australians can legally record TV and radio programs and transfer material from compact discs to mp3 players under new copyright reforms."
About time!! They give us toys to play with and then bugger up our enjoyment. At last, at last ...oh, thank heavens for that!!
"Australians can legally record TV and radio programs and transfer material from compact discs to mp3 players under new copyright reforms."
About time!! They give us toys to play with and then bugger up our enjoyment. At last, at last ...oh, thank heavens for that!!
Flowers sales boom for Mothers' Day
Flowers sales boom for Mothers' Day :
"Roses Only reported record sales - with roses the number one choice for those wanting to spoil a mother or grandmother."
I had and am having a lovely Mother's Day. Nothing over the top, nothing material as such, but so nice. We went out to lunch and the meal was delicious. I had grilled chicken with camembert and mango glaze....YUM, followed by pavlova...how could I resist? A good glass of wine and a delicious cup of coffee to finish it all. Great lunch. The atmosphere was good and the open fire welcome on our cold Mother's Day in Adelaide. Everyone was happy and it was just so pleasant ....and yes,there were beautiful bouquets of flowers. The hotel had chosen some very impressive pink hippeastrums, but Mums had big bunches of pink chrysanthemums, pink daisies and one lady had a stunningly colourful display of gerberas. We had mums, dads, sons and daughters, grandmas, grandads, babies, pregnat ladies...and it was just a great meal and a lovely atmosphere. Yes, the floral displays were very special this year but it wasn't to do with ostentation. It was about nice gestures on the part of the family members.
"Roses Only reported record sales - with roses the number one choice for those wanting to spoil a mother or grandmother."
I had and am having a lovely Mother's Day. Nothing over the top, nothing material as such, but so nice. We went out to lunch and the meal was delicious. I had grilled chicken with camembert and mango glaze....YUM, followed by pavlova...how could I resist? A good glass of wine and a delicious cup of coffee to finish it all. Great lunch. The atmosphere was good and the open fire welcome on our cold Mother's Day in Adelaide. Everyone was happy and it was just so pleasant ....and yes,there were beautiful bouquets of flowers. The hotel had chosen some very impressive pink hippeastrums, but Mums had big bunches of pink chrysanthemums, pink daisies and one lady had a stunningly colourful display of gerberas. We had mums, dads, sons and daughters, grandmas, grandads, babies, pregnat ladies...and it was just a great meal and a lovely atmosphere. Yes, the floral displays were very special this year but it wasn't to do with ostentation. It was about nice gestures on the part of the family members.
Safety campaign to promote seatbelt use
Safety campaign to promote seatbelt use :
"She says the television and radio campaign will aim to highlight the risks of ignoring a key safety feature of all vehicles.
'We have the main messages the dangers of speeding, drink-driving, fatigue, inattention,' she said."
It probably is time for us to repeat all our safety campaigns and messages which were all very successful in their day. Some of us have been assuming we all have the messages safely planted in us and have forgotten that the world has moved on and the new drivers and cyclists haven't had the benefit of our educative safety programmes. Kids probably have no idea why they should be wearing helmets when they ride bikes and we haven't had the very pointed crash dummy ads about seat belts for quite sometime. We need to build a repeat safety net into our safety programmes so the new ones get those same, vital messages. It's all news to them!
"She says the television and radio campaign will aim to highlight the risks of ignoring a key safety feature of all vehicles.
'We have the main messages the dangers of speeding, drink-driving, fatigue, inattention,' she said."
It probably is time for us to repeat all our safety campaigns and messages which were all very successful in their day. Some of us have been assuming we all have the messages safely planted in us and have forgotten that the world has moved on and the new drivers and cyclists haven't had the benefit of our educative safety programmes. Kids probably have no idea why they should be wearing helmets when they ride bikes and we haven't had the very pointed crash dummy ads about seat belts for quite sometime. We need to build a repeat safety net into our safety programmes so the new ones get those same, vital messages. It's all news to them!
Sandra Kanck
The Advertiser: Party fury puts Kanck on brink :
"On Wednesday, Ms Kanck announced plans to retire at the 2010 election and then, later that night in parliament, said there was no evidence that ecstasy was a dangerous drug."
I take her point that our information always needs to be current and up to date. That bit is not disputable. However, we have had well over a hundred unnecessary deaths because of Ecstasy and medical people and our laws have been at cross purposes trying to get drug testing and practical information to people who insist on taking the stuff. Were it not a problem there wouldn't be this utter desire of people to supply drug testing at venues where people are likely to take it. They wouldn't put themselves in the line of fire as they do. They do it because they think young people are worth saving.
You don't actually have to do research for very long to get information about Ecstasy. I did this in 5 minutes:
"Brain imaging research in humans indicates that Ecstasy causes injury to the brain, affecting neurons that use the chemical serotonin to communicate with other neurons. The serotonin system plays a direct role in regulating mood, aggression, sexual activity, sleep, and sensitivity to pain. Many of the side effects users face with Ecstasy use are similar to those found with the use of cocaine and amphetamines: Psychological Ecstasy side effects, including confusion, depression, sleep problems, drug craving, severe anxiety, and paranoia - during and sometimes weeks after taking Ecstasy. Physical Ecstasy side effects such as muscle tension, involuntary teeth clenching, nausea, blurred vision, rapid eye movement, faintness, and chills or sweating. Increases in heart rate and blood pressure, a special risk for people with circulatory or heart disease.
Short-term side effects of ecstasy
· Nausea
· Hallucinations
· Chills & sweating
· Increased body temp
· Tremors
· Muscle cramping
· Blurred vision"
Ecstasy Side Effects
"Research links MDMA use to long-term damage to those parts of the brain that are critical for pleasure, thought and memory.
· Ecstasy has KILLED users as a result of heatstroke (from dancing for hours in a hot club) or mixing with alcohol and other drugs.
· Using Ecstasy can cause one to lose their self-control putting them at risk for becoming a victim of date rape, pregnant, or acquiring sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV/AIDS.
· In the Monitoring the Future (MTF) Survey, results show that the use of MDMA increased among all grade levels measured in the study- 8th, 10th, and 12th.
· According to the MTF Survey from 1999- 2000 the MDMA use among 12th graders went from 5.6% to 8.2%.
· According to the National Household Survey on Drug Abuse (NHSDA) an estimated 1.5% (3.4 million) Americans had used MDMA at least once during their lifetime.
· The heaviest use (5% or 1.4 million people) was for those between the ages of 18 and 25 years old."
ATOD Prevention Center
And if you are still not able to comprehend the effects of Ecstasy, then consult the slide show at:
This is your brain on Ecstasy
"On Wednesday, Ms Kanck announced plans to retire at the 2010 election and then, later that night in parliament, said there was no evidence that ecstasy was a dangerous drug."
I take her point that our information always needs to be current and up to date. That bit is not disputable. However, we have had well over a hundred unnecessary deaths because of Ecstasy and medical people and our laws have been at cross purposes trying to get drug testing and practical information to people who insist on taking the stuff. Were it not a problem there wouldn't be this utter desire of people to supply drug testing at venues where people are likely to take it. They wouldn't put themselves in the line of fire as they do. They do it because they think young people are worth saving.
You don't actually have to do research for very long to get information about Ecstasy. I did this in 5 minutes:
"Brain imaging research in humans indicates that Ecstasy causes injury to the brain, affecting neurons that use the chemical serotonin to communicate with other neurons. The serotonin system plays a direct role in regulating mood, aggression, sexual activity, sleep, and sensitivity to pain. Many of the side effects users face with Ecstasy use are similar to those found with the use of cocaine and amphetamines: Psychological Ecstasy side effects, including confusion, depression, sleep problems, drug craving, severe anxiety, and paranoia - during and sometimes weeks after taking Ecstasy. Physical Ecstasy side effects such as muscle tension, involuntary teeth clenching, nausea, blurred vision, rapid eye movement, faintness, and chills or sweating. Increases in heart rate and blood pressure, a special risk for people with circulatory or heart disease.
Short-term side effects of ecstasy
· Nausea
· Hallucinations
· Chills & sweating
· Increased body temp
· Tremors
· Muscle cramping
· Blurred vision"
Ecstasy Side Effects
"Research links MDMA use to long-term damage to those parts of the brain that are critical for pleasure, thought and memory.
· Ecstasy has KILLED users as a result of heatstroke (from dancing for hours in a hot club) or mixing with alcohol and other drugs.
· Using Ecstasy can cause one to lose their self-control putting them at risk for becoming a victim of date rape, pregnant, or acquiring sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV/AIDS.
· In the Monitoring the Future (MTF) Survey, results show that the use of MDMA increased among all grade levels measured in the study- 8th, 10th, and 12th.
· According to the MTF Survey from 1999- 2000 the MDMA use among 12th graders went from 5.6% to 8.2%.
· According to the National Household Survey on Drug Abuse (NHSDA) an estimated 1.5% (3.4 million) Americans had used MDMA at least once during their lifetime.
· The heaviest use (5% or 1.4 million people) was for those between the ages of 18 and 25 years old."
ATOD Prevention Center
And if you are still not able to comprehend the effects of Ecstasy, then consult the slide show at:
This is your brain on Ecstasy
Saturday, May 13, 2006
Socceroos World Cup Germany
Aussie United - Australia Socceroos To The World Cup 2006 Germany:
"Online discussion about the Socceroos (Australian soccer team) build up to the world cup 2006 in Germany"
Here's a site all ready to go for the world cup dicussions and to support our Socceroos team. The excitement is starting to mount now we are down to the final month. The German town welcoming our Socceroos was shown on one of our local programmes and the people have done such a wonderful job to get into the spirit of Australia but hadn't quite worked out Vegemite. They'll be pleased they hadn't when they taste it! They have made such a wonderful Ozzification of the town right down to the freshly baked kangaroo biscuits. It is so kind of them to be so welcoming to our team...who will be staying in pretty swanky accommodation by the looks. How lucky are they? Good luck to them, they have worked for years to get to this point and I am certain they will love Germany. Incidently - the typical Aussie breakfast is fresh orange juice, cereal like Vita Brits, Weetbix, Cornflakes or Muesli or....toasted wholegrain bread and vegemite and then either a cup of tea, coffee or warm Milo. These days we like our milk skimmed. The biggest problem for Australians overseas is we don't eat a lot of fat and we eat heaps of fruit and salad, so a lot of diets are too much of the cooked veg or too rich.
"Online discussion about the Socceroos (Australian soccer team) build up to the world cup 2006 in Germany"
Here's a site all ready to go for the world cup dicussions and to support our Socceroos team. The excitement is starting to mount now we are down to the final month. The German town welcoming our Socceroos was shown on one of our local programmes and the people have done such a wonderful job to get into the spirit of Australia but hadn't quite worked out Vegemite. They'll be pleased they hadn't when they taste it! They have made such a wonderful Ozzification of the town right down to the freshly baked kangaroo biscuits. It is so kind of them to be so welcoming to our team...who will be staying in pretty swanky accommodation by the looks. How lucky are they? Good luck to them, they have worked for years to get to this point and I am certain they will love Germany. Incidently - the typical Aussie breakfast is fresh orange juice, cereal like Vita Brits, Weetbix, Cornflakes or Muesli or....toasted wholegrain bread and vegemite and then either a cup of tea, coffee or warm Milo. These days we like our milk skimmed. The biggest problem for Australians overseas is we don't eat a lot of fat and we eat heaps of fruit and salad, so a lot of diets are too much of the cooked veg or too rich.
John Howard
9 May 1985
"This column could not fail to notice that when John Howard appeared on The National last night, he was not wearing his glasses, and his eyebrows were impressively upswept. In the sordid world of politics, image changes always have a special significance. We phoned Mr Howard's office last night, and a staff member replied wearily to our question:"No, it's not a leadership challenge, it's just a screw loose in his glasses. They were a bit uncomfortable so he took them off for the interview. No, he hasn;t started wearing contact lenses. And nothing has happened to his eyebrows. They always look like that." We'll see."
Probably the Last of Stay in Touch
p.39 Horan , Wall and Walker 1985.
"This column could not fail to notice that when John Howard appeared on The National last night, he was not wearing his glasses, and his eyebrows were impressively upswept. In the sordid world of politics, image changes always have a special significance. We phoned Mr Howard's office last night, and a staff member replied wearily to our question:"No, it's not a leadership challenge, it's just a screw loose in his glasses. They were a bit uncomfortable so he took them off for the interview. No, he hasn;t started wearing contact lenses. And nothing has happened to his eyebrows. They always look like that." We'll see."
Probably the Last of Stay in Touch
p.39 Horan , Wall and Walker 1985.
All smiles
Everyone was all smiles at the shops today. Everyone had slept, everyone was chatty and cheerful and no one could exactly say why. We were just in a good mood. Some had had a long drive to work or the shops, some were staying with friends, some had just woken up early in a good mood and had decided to get the shopping done. It was all good and what a difference it makes when people talk to each other at the shops. It makes the time pass really nicely. I may only have been doing the grocery shop this morning, but I was in such a good mood when I got back home.
Bush approval rating falls to new low
Bush approval rating falls to new low :
"The poll of 1,003 US adults said 71 per cent of Americans said Bush was doing an 'only fair or poor job,' up from 63 per cent in April."
See? Enough is enough. We need some change and some positive poeple in power. People who move us forward in a productive, new millennium way.
"The poll of 1,003 US adults said 71 per cent of Americans said Bush was doing an 'only fair or poor job,' up from 63 per cent in April."
See? Enough is enough. We need some change and some positive poeple in power. People who move us forward in a productive, new millennium way.
Blair poll rating slumps further
Blair poll rating slumps further :
"BRITISH Prime Minister Tony Blair finished the week with a succession of bad opinion polls for both him and his Labour Party despite his efforts to recover from heavy losses in local elections.
Mr Blair's massive May 5 shake up of his cabinet changed nothing, because many perceived it as a bid to divert attention from the bruising his party suffered in the previous day's English municipal council elections."
I think your "average" person has come to the conclusion that real people with their real, everyday problems and values are far more important and worthwhile than our elected "leaders" who seem to be a group apart on a completely different path and mission from us. They don't value what we value, they don't like what we like, they do not value us, they don't want to know what we think, they think we are stupid, they don't care about our friends and families. We want real people who can govern and run our countries and our world in a way we value. We like each other, we squabble a bit but sort it out, we want enough money to eat drink and be merry, we want a place with trees, birds, animals and fresh water. We want to talk to people and help them when they are stuck. We rally, we care, we laugh and we do not squander life and money. So if Blair is slumping, well, they all seem to have lost their shine. They are not like us. Average people are doing heroic things on a daily basis and they are managing chaos with monotonous regularity. Thing is, you can trust your average person to help you out when you're in trouble. Average people are actually far stronger, more durable, more multifacited and more articulate about what the real issues are. Your mate is going to keep you out of trouble and hold on tight to you when it gets rough and then they'll crack up laughing with you and make you feel so much better about yourself. Our leaders have excelled in making us feel useless and inadequate.
"BRITISH Prime Minister Tony Blair finished the week with a succession of bad opinion polls for both him and his Labour Party despite his efforts to recover from heavy losses in local elections.
Mr Blair's massive May 5 shake up of his cabinet changed nothing, because many perceived it as a bid to divert attention from the bruising his party suffered in the previous day's English municipal council elections."
I think your "average" person has come to the conclusion that real people with their real, everyday problems and values are far more important and worthwhile than our elected "leaders" who seem to be a group apart on a completely different path and mission from us. They don't value what we value, they don't like what we like, they do not value us, they don't want to know what we think, they think we are stupid, they don't care about our friends and families. We want real people who can govern and run our countries and our world in a way we value. We like each other, we squabble a bit but sort it out, we want enough money to eat drink and be merry, we want a place with trees, birds, animals and fresh water. We want to talk to people and help them when they are stuck. We rally, we care, we laugh and we do not squander life and money. So if Blair is slumping, well, they all seem to have lost their shine. They are not like us. Average people are doing heroic things on a daily basis and they are managing chaos with monotonous regularity. Thing is, you can trust your average person to help you out when you're in trouble. Average people are actually far stronger, more durable, more multifacited and more articulate about what the real issues are. Your mate is going to keep you out of trouble and hold on tight to you when it gets rough and then they'll crack up laughing with you and make you feel so much better about yourself. Our leaders have excelled in making us feel useless and inadequate.
Friday, May 12, 2006
Hen turns into cock
The Age:
"A hen on a property near Bristol, England, has turned into a cockerel _ after eight months of laying eggs. Freaky the chicken has sprouted a comb, crows at dawn, fights with other cocks and tries to mate with hens. His condition is caused by high testosterone levels."
So where did the excess testosterone come from? Bit of a cock up I'd say.
"A hen on a property near Bristol, England, has turned into a cockerel _ after eight months of laying eggs. Freaky the chicken has sprouted a comb, crows at dawn, fights with other cocks and tries to mate with hens. His condition is caused by high testosterone levels."
So where did the excess testosterone come from? Bit of a cock up I'd say.
Oil prices will 'trend down over time'
Oil prices will 'trend down over time' :
"He also suggested Australia should be aiming for a largely electric car fleet by 2050."
I am fed up with petrol. Apart from the stupid pricing which benefits no one but the petrol companies...it's a stinky, stupid, highly flammable liquid which can be abused. Without it we'd be a lot better off and a lot more new millennium. Petrol went with the advent of cars. We're supposed to be in this whizzy high tech, cutting edge, super duper new technology era and we are still putting stinky liquid in our cars when everything else we have is all cruisy and cool looking. I want to plug my car in like I plug in my mobile. How easy would that be?? I suppose they wouldn't make billions out of it. Bugga. At the very least, I want some glitzy, glam, bling bling, sparkly fluoro gel which'll make my car go. I feel like saying sod the oil companies, but I'd better not. It's not very polite. Bad thought. Bad thought. Bad thought.
"He also suggested Australia should be aiming for a largely electric car fleet by 2050."
I am fed up with petrol. Apart from the stupid pricing which benefits no one but the petrol companies...it's a stinky, stupid, highly flammable liquid which can be abused. Without it we'd be a lot better off and a lot more new millennium. Petrol went with the advent of cars. We're supposed to be in this whizzy high tech, cutting edge, super duper new technology era and we are still putting stinky liquid in our cars when everything else we have is all cruisy and cool looking. I want to plug my car in like I plug in my mobile. How easy would that be?? I suppose they wouldn't make billions out of it. Bugga. At the very least, I want some glitzy, glam, bling bling, sparkly fluoro gel which'll make my car go. I feel like saying sod the oil companies, but I'd better not. It's not very polite. Bad thought. Bad thought. Bad thought.
Sophie's condition improves
Sophie's condition improves :
"'She remains on a ventilator in the Children's Intensive Care Unit at Sydney Children's Hospital, Randwick.'
In December 2003, Sophie lost both feet, some fingers and suffered third degree burns to 85 per cent of her body when she was trapped under a car that crashed into the Roundhouse Childcare Centre at Fairlight."
Little Sophie has captured all our hearts and we cannot think about her and her family enough. At 2 she was so hurt and damaged by an elderly driver ploughing into her day care centre. She and her family were coming to terms with that and battling through boldly when another elderly driver struck the little girl and we all feared for her and her family. How cruel can life be? Her father stood bravely before us and falteringly, but quietly and firmly uttered the inalienable truth. How can a little girl be asked to go through all of this again? She is stable now and we were keeping her hearts open for her as we kept our ears open for the miners. It is another family which needs a lot of support, a lot of quiet help and some space to deal with everything they are being asked to deal with in this life. We really do not have to create trouble. Life brings it to us aplenty. Sophie is inspiring because she is so little and she is having to fight for everything in life. It's very humbling and her parents are teaching us well.
"'She remains on a ventilator in the Children's Intensive Care Unit at Sydney Children's Hospital, Randwick.'
In December 2003, Sophie lost both feet, some fingers and suffered third degree burns to 85 per cent of her body when she was trapped under a car that crashed into the Roundhouse Childcare Centre at Fairlight."
Little Sophie has captured all our hearts and we cannot think about her and her family enough. At 2 she was so hurt and damaged by an elderly driver ploughing into her day care centre. She and her family were coming to terms with that and battling through boldly when another elderly driver struck the little girl and we all feared for her and her family. How cruel can life be? Her father stood bravely before us and falteringly, but quietly and firmly uttered the inalienable truth. How can a little girl be asked to go through all of this again? She is stable now and we were keeping her hearts open for her as we kept our ears open for the miners. It is another family which needs a lot of support, a lot of quiet help and some space to deal with everything they are being asked to deal with in this life. We really do not have to create trouble. Life brings it to us aplenty. Sophie is inspiring because she is so little and she is having to fight for everything in life. It's very humbling and her parents are teaching us well.
Labor MPs rally behind Beazley.
Labor MPs rally behind Beazley. :
"'I am interested in what's happening to my fellow Australians,' he said.
Mr Beazley has also rejected Government criticism of his initiatives and denied his plan for a new broadband network will neglect rural areas."
We've just had a budget which flew in the face of all the fiscal advice available from us from people who ought to know. We also had to listen to line after line of military spending and we were wondering what that all meant and why we were going down the male dominated belligerent path. Who needs these weapons? Who is going to use these weapons? Who will suffer from these weapons? I'm sorry, but men dream up some great ways to damage and hurt each other and make other men hurt and suffer and then the women and children get dragged into it all and our current budget is dragging Australian families into weaponry. We want hospitals, roads, good schools and universities, work place conditions which are reasonable and a wage we can use for basics and then a bit. We are not all about investment. Poor people spend money, middle income earners budget it and rich people look upon it as an investment. Our money is being spent on weapons while our education system needs help, our hospitals need help and we have an increasing number of people who actually don't have a home to live in because there is nothing in their price bracket. Mr. Beazley looked like he meant business yesterday and when he makes up his mind, he makes up his mind. Labour has worked out now that the character assassination and sticks and stones just have to go.
"'I am interested in what's happening to my fellow Australians,' he said.
Mr Beazley has also rejected Government criticism of his initiatives and denied his plan for a new broadband network will neglect rural areas."
We've just had a budget which flew in the face of all the fiscal advice available from us from people who ought to know. We also had to listen to line after line of military spending and we were wondering what that all meant and why we were going down the male dominated belligerent path. Who needs these weapons? Who is going to use these weapons? Who will suffer from these weapons? I'm sorry, but men dream up some great ways to damage and hurt each other and make other men hurt and suffer and then the women and children get dragged into it all and our current budget is dragging Australian families into weaponry. We want hospitals, roads, good schools and universities, work place conditions which are reasonable and a wage we can use for basics and then a bit. We are not all about investment. Poor people spend money, middle income earners budget it and rich people look upon it as an investment. Our money is being spent on weapons while our education system needs help, our hospitals need help and we have an increasing number of people who actually don't have a home to live in because there is nothing in their price bracket. Mr. Beazley looked like he meant business yesterday and when he makes up his mind, he makes up his mind. Labour has worked out now that the character assassination and sticks and stones just have to go.
Thursday, May 11, 2006
I have been tagged
Purple Parrot from Slightly Mad has tagged me. I am so excited. I think I have now made it in the blogosphere since I usually get tagged by email!! Thank you PP and here are my answers:
Accent: People have trouble placing my accent and always ask me where it is from. Southern English but with a lot of Australian expressions.
Booze: I’m not a drinker. The odd glass of Moselle for the special occasion. Champagne at Christmas.
Chore I Hate: I am so over lunch boxes and they were my nemesis for many years. Now it’s cleaning the griller.
Dogs/Cats: I have a dog, I babysit the neighbour’s cat, but I am very much a dog person.
Electronics: I’m a mobile non-event even though I have one. I kept my brick forever but have a nice new one now. Love computers and have more than my fair share. Now own an MP3 player and quite like it.
Favorite Perfume/Cologne: Don’t like perfume. They should bottle the smell of coffee.
Gold/Silver: Prefer gold but it’s mainly rings.
Hometown: Adelaide.
Insomnia: Not often but can break into 2 week cycles. Weather changes seem to disturb restful sleep patterns.
Job Title: Sucked in.
Kids: Yes.
Living Arrangements: A cosy home.
Most Admired Trait: People either admire me for my outspokenness or not. I like straight talking people.
Number of (Insert arbitrary unit here to avoid any overtly personal revelations when the big bad blogosphere includes your grand/parents) bags…I dare not go near bag shops. I always need one!
Overnight Hospital Stays: Three. Not all to give birth.
Phobia: I conquered my fear of spiders. I don’t like violent people. I have an aversion to them.
Quote: I don’t do vague.
Religion: Tea temple.
Siblings: Two and they still keep me very busy.
Time I usually wake up: 5.30am or 6. Earlier if it’s cold.
Unusual Talent: Managing people other people can’t manage and actually quite liking it.
Vegetable I refuse to eat: I love vegetables. LLOVE them.
Worst Habit: Organising the lives of other people. I am famous for it.
X-Rays: Foot, back, pelvis, stomach.
Yummy Foods I make: Biscuits and cakes especially orange cake and chocolate cake.
Zodiac Sign: Pisces…I love being Piscean.
At this point in time I dare you to do this and let me know that you have...or should I dare to tag you...I'll sleep on it.
Accent: People have trouble placing my accent and always ask me where it is from. Southern English but with a lot of Australian expressions.
Booze: I’m not a drinker. The odd glass of Moselle for the special occasion. Champagne at Christmas.
Chore I Hate: I am so over lunch boxes and they were my nemesis for many years. Now it’s cleaning the griller.
Dogs/Cats: I have a dog, I babysit the neighbour’s cat, but I am very much a dog person.
Electronics: I’m a mobile non-event even though I have one. I kept my brick forever but have a nice new one now. Love computers and have more than my fair share. Now own an MP3 player and quite like it.
Favorite Perfume/Cologne: Don’t like perfume. They should bottle the smell of coffee.
Gold/Silver: Prefer gold but it’s mainly rings.
Hometown: Adelaide.
Insomnia: Not often but can break into 2 week cycles. Weather changes seem to disturb restful sleep patterns.
Job Title: Sucked in.
Kids: Yes.
Living Arrangements: A cosy home.
Most Admired Trait: People either admire me for my outspokenness or not. I like straight talking people.
Number of (Insert arbitrary unit here to avoid any overtly personal revelations when the big bad blogosphere includes your grand/parents) bags…I dare not go near bag shops. I always need one!
Overnight Hospital Stays: Three. Not all to give birth.
Phobia: I conquered my fear of spiders. I don’t like violent people. I have an aversion to them.
Quote: I don’t do vague.
Religion: Tea temple.
Siblings: Two and they still keep me very busy.
Time I usually wake up: 5.30am or 6. Earlier if it’s cold.
Unusual Talent: Managing people other people can’t manage and actually quite liking it.
Vegetable I refuse to eat: I love vegetables. LLOVE them.
Worst Habit: Organising the lives of other people. I am famous for it.
X-Rays: Foot, back, pelvis, stomach.
Yummy Foods I make: Biscuits and cakes especially orange cake and chocolate cake.
Zodiac Sign: Pisces…I love being Piscean.
At this point in time I dare you to do this and let me know that you have...or should I dare to tag you...I'll sleep on it.
Australian Senate rejects National Sorry Day
Scoop: Australian Senate rejects National Sorry Day:
"Senator Siewert was responding to the defeat by the Government in the
Senate today of a motion calling on the Senate to recognise National
Sorry Day. The motion, put by Senator Rachel Siewert was supported by the ALP, Greens and the Democrats but opposed by the Liberals, Nationals. Family First abstained from the vote."
That says it all, doesn't it? Tells us who actually values our indigenous people. We need a better way of working with them and understanding them and respecting them. They are tribal , we are not but the "urban" aborgines are caught inbetween cultures. Inspite of that a number of aborigines are our beacons and we openly embrace them and value them. We need to be able to apply that to them as a people. It really is nonsense that we cannot. And , by the way, the majority of us accept what went on here, even though it is not our fault, is something we need to publicly redress so the nation, one nation, can move forward. The lack of public apology for the impact white settlement has now had on all of us is something we need to clear the air about and we are ready for it. Certain people seem to think it's not warranted. It is if it feels right. It would mean a lot to everyone and set the scene for the young ones.
"Senator Siewert was responding to the defeat by the Government in the
Senate today of a motion calling on the Senate to recognise National
Sorry Day. The motion, put by Senator Rachel Siewert was supported by the ALP, Greens and the Democrats but opposed by the Liberals, Nationals. Family First abstained from the vote."
That says it all, doesn't it? Tells us who actually values our indigenous people. We need a better way of working with them and understanding them and respecting them. They are tribal , we are not but the "urban" aborgines are caught inbetween cultures. Inspite of that a number of aborigines are our beacons and we openly embrace them and value them. We need to be able to apply that to them as a people. It really is nonsense that we cannot. And , by the way, the majority of us accept what went on here, even though it is not our fault, is something we need to publicly redress so the nation, one nation, can move forward. The lack of public apology for the impact white settlement has now had on all of us is something we need to clear the air about and we are ready for it. Certain people seem to think it's not warranted. It is if it feels right. It would mean a lot to everyone and set the scene for the young ones.
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