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Saturday, 20 May

19:25

Everybody Knows, Part 14: Comparative Trials of Russell Pridgeon and Jahar Tsarnaev "IndyWatch Feed National"

(L) Russell Pridgeon, age 64 at 2018 arrest, Photo: abc.net.au (not sure why the cops are pixelated) (R) Jahar Tsarnaev, age 19, at 2013 arrest, Photo provided by Massachusetts state police(L) Russell Pridgeon, age 64 at 2018 arrest, Photo: abc.net.au (not sure why the cops are pixelated) (R) Jahar Tsarnaev, age 19, at 2013 arrest, Photo provided by Massachusetts state police

by Mary W Maxwell, LLB

As Gumshoe News readers will know, I am trying to spotlight the upcoming trial of Dr Russell Pridgeon in order to examine its unfairness. Dee McLachlan had already been doing that since at least 5 April 2019, the day she filmed Pridgeons red-carpet speech. The present series is roughly based on a book Russell put together in haste before packing his toothbrush for (potential) prison. Its at Amazon with the title Everybody Knows.

In this article I will emphasize the deja vu-ness of the Pridgeon trial to a person (me) who has been very much involved in the Boston trial, United States v Tsarnaev.

...

17:09

This fate awaits Snake Matt Kean "IndyWatch Feed National"

Liberal members boo and stage a walk-out on Liberal leader John Pesutto at the partys state council meeting in Bendigo #springst pic.twitter.com/xxAiy5OlJq Annika Smethurst (@annikasmethurst) May 20, 2023

16:33

GKP S5/E12 The Voice to Parliament with Indigenous Elder Grandmother Mulara "IndyWatch Feed National"

https://www.podbean.com/media/share/pb-vz4hg-14128af Gday Folks, On todays show Andy joins me to discuss the upcoming Voice to Parliament referendum with our special guest, Grandmother Mulara. What is the Voice to Parliament? So far all we have been hearing and seeing are campaigns by the Government to Vote Yes in the referendum. But what is this referendum really []

14:52

Independence of the Victorian Bar - members in revolt over support for The Voice "IndyWatch Feed National"

I've received a number of notes from members of the Victorian Bar who are quite properly furious about their leadership's public support for Albanese's Voice. This note is typical: Dear colleague, I write to you in response to the Bars forthcoming Poll on whether, in essence, the Victorian Bar should...

12:49

Precisely. "IndyWatch Feed National"

The presumption of innocence has been dangerously warped by the #MeToo movement, Bruce Lehrmanns lawyer Steven Whybrow SC has claimed. Read and watch his full first interview since Mr Lehrmann's trial over Brittany Higgins rape allegations: https://t.co/CgCYO411r6 pic.twitter.com/o1r1RklaGO The Australian (@australian) May 19, 2023

12:15

Lib members heckle, boo and walk-out on weak lefty opposition leader John Pesutto "IndyWatch Feed National"

Liberal members boo and stage a walk-out on Liberal leader John Pesutto at the partys state council meeting in Bendigo #springst pic.twitter.com/xxAiy5OlJq Annika Smethurst (@annikasmethurst) May 20, 2023

09:27

US skincare company using school shooting to sell its products. "IndyWatch Feed National"

pic.twitter.com/gKww03ZFAC lifelong nuggets fan (@annamelissa) May 19, 2023

09:16

Peter Dutton spot on. "IndyWatch Feed National"

Excellent point. VOTE NO! #PerthNews #QLDPOL pic.twitter.com/7yZXsNvU5d JILL (@1Swinging_Voter) May 19, 2023

08:18

Officer's job under review, homicide squad called in, as advocates call out police handling of 95yo tasering "IndyWatch Feed National"

Clare Nowland was at Yallambee Lodge in Cooma when staff called NSW Police to the facility

An advocacy group representing people with disabilities has criticised a senior constable for his use of a taser on a 95-year-old woman with dementia at her Cooma aged care facility.

Key points:

  • ...

07:32

Zelensky declares his love for Biden "IndyWatch Feed National"

We have a dream... One day our pilots will protect our skies with modern F-16s. Today, our heroic country has taken a huge step towards this goal! The free world is launching a program to train our pilots on F-16s! Thank you President Biden for this long-awaited decision! Thank pic.twitter.com/d7EqXBocUp...

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Friday, 19 May

23:24

The Experts and Downsides of Do My Homework for Me Services: An in depth Analysis "IndyWatch Feed National"

The Execs and Down sides of Do My Homework for Me Services: An extensive Analysis

In present day fast-paced surroundings, learners in many scenarios uncover by by themselves overcome with tutorial duties. With limited deadlines, tricky coursework, and extracurricular commitments, it truly is no shock that some school learners look for exterior aid to alleviate their workload. one fashionable answer is turning to do my homework for me companies. This document aims to provide a comprehensive investigation inside the experts and negatives of these suppliers, shedding light-weight throughout the ethical important things to take into account and potential favorable aspects and downsides for college kids.

Section one: Determining Do My Homework for Me Services

1.a single Defining Do My Basic research for Me Services

Explanation with all the principle and just how it options.
Different kinds of alternatives offered tutoring, assignment completion, essay crafting, and so on..
1.two The Improve of Do My Research for Me Services

Factors contributing to the intercontinental recognition of this sort of companies.
The intent of know-how then the on the web in enabling their expansion.
An overview from the marketplaces landscape and trade tendencies.
Section two: The pros of Do My Homework for Me Services

2. 1 Time Administration and Workload Distribution

How these options can actually allow higher education learners even more effective take care of their time.
The capability to cut back again tension and panic and worry very similar to deadlines.
Balancing tutorial workload with other responsibilities.
2.two Entry to Authority Support and Resources

The advantage of tapping into a pool of materials authorities.
Learning odds thru publicity to high-quality obtain the position done.
Access to some mammoth selection of tactics that wont be offered to learners.
2.three Enhanced Performance and Grades

How specialist help can positively affect tutorial general efficiency.
The probable for better comprehension of topics and concepts.
Enhanced ability to satisfy assignment disorders and tips.
2. 4 Customization and Personalization

Tailored tactics to special seeking out out choices and choices.
Addressing distinct working out gaps and difficulties.
The likelihood to acquire personalised responses and way.
Section a few: The Downsides of Do My Research for Me Services

3.one Moral Considerations

Examining the moral implications of outsourcing tutorial succeed.
The excellent line amid enable and tutorial dishonesty.
Potential repercussions and long-term effect on working out.
3.two Dependency and Not plenty of Self-Efficacy

The risk of gaining overly reli...

22:00

Shutting Down the Israeli Arms Industry, with Huda Amori "IndyWatch Feed National"

The MintPress podcast The Watchdog, hosted by British-Iraqi hip hop artist Lowkey, closely examines organizations about which it is in the public interest to know including intelligence, lobby, and special interest groups influencing policies that infringe on free speech and target dissent. The Watchdog goes against the grain by casting a light on stories largely ignored by the mainstream, corporate media.

Even as Israels war against Palestine continues unabated, a new movement has arisen in the United Kingdom, challenging the Israeli war machine and it has been winning some impressive victories.

Founded in 2020, Palestine Action is a grassroots activist movement that seeks to end British complicity in Israeli war crimes by shutting down arms manufacturing sites across the U.K. Today, Lowkey welcomes back Palestine Action co-founder Huda Amori to talk about the rise of her organization that has taken the country by storm and has weapons manufacturers fleeing. Born in the U.K., Amori is a Palestinian-Iraqi whose father was chased out of his home by Israeli soldiers in 1967, and forced to flee, without even a pair of shoes.

Decades later, Amori has found a way to fight back, using direct action to occupy and shut down Elbit Systems, Israels largest arms firm. With the help of the community in her native Oldham, Amori and Palestine Actions occupation has forced Elbit Systems to leave the town and sell their factory at a substantial loss. Last summer, they abandoned their London headquarters. And last winter, the British Ministry of Defence canceled around 280 million (around U.S.$350 million) of contracts with the company.

Elbits products, such as drones and surveillance tech, are directly used on the civilian population of Palestine, Amori explained. They are then marketed as battle tested around the world and sold to countries like Australia and India.

If you are building weapons here to be sent back to Israel to be used against Palestinians, or if you are a customer of weapons that have been developed on the Palestinian people, then you are just as guilty, Amori said, adding:

For example, the British Ministry of Defence buy many of these weapons after they have been developed and used against the Palestinians, which only encourages the further development and use of weapons on Palestinians, and to continue the occupation. This cycle of violence just continues to benefit the oppressors and work against the oppressed.

...

21:38

What a surprise, Stan Grant has a new book to flog. "IndyWatch Feed National"

The Queen Is Dead Stan Grant 4.80 15 ratings5 reviews From Stan Grant, leading journalist and author of the critically acclaimed bestsellers Talking to My Country and Australia Day , comes an extraordinary and powerful call to action. 'History is not weighted on the scales, it is felt in our...

20:34

Link "IndyWatch Feed National"

MEDIA RELEASE 19 May 2023 Prime Minister, Minister for Foreign Affairs Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Foreign Minister Penny Wong today announced financial sanctions and an export ban, targeting sectors of economic and strategic significance to Russia. These additional targeted measures aim to slow Russias war machine. Australias action is...

18:47

Stan Grant announces he's 'walking away' from ABC QandA because of racism. "IndyWatch Feed National"

I speak of truth, not grievance. Yet that is not how it has been reported. Racism is a crime. Racism is violence. And I have had enough. I am writing this because no one at the ABC whose producers invited me onto their coronation coverage as a guest ...

17:38

Australian stock exchange officially abandons blockchain plans: Report "IndyWatch Feed National"

ASX has abandoned its software rebuild using blockchain technology to explore more conventional options.

16:21

Australian exchanges dispel debanking fears amid Binance saga, but risks loom "IndyWatch Feed National"

Australian crypto exchanges report no problems with their payment providers, but the lack of local laws means more debanking incidents cant be ruled out.

16:18

Coalition clown show on nuclear on full display in Senate inquiry "IndyWatch Feed Nsw"

A Senate nuclear power inquiry held its only public hearing on Monday. For the most part it was an opportunity for Coalition Senators to express their furious agreement with misinformation fed to them by pro-nuclear witnesses.

Jim Green 17 May 2023 2023https://reneweconomy.com.au/coalition-clown-show-on-nuclear-on-full-display-in-senate-inquiry/

And it was an opportunity for culture warriors Matt Canavan and NSW Senator Hollie Hughes (Shadow Assistant Minister for Climate Change and Energy) to compete with each other to see who could get the most column-inches in the Murdoch tabloids and the most air-time on Murdochs Sky TV.

...

16:03

SACOSS responds to proposed new anti-protest laws "IndyWatch Feed National"

Friday, 19 May 2023

SACOSS is concerned both by the potential unintended consequences of changes to legislation around South Australians' rights to peaceful protest, and the speed with which these changes are being made.
 
South Australia's record of progress arising from the work of the labour, environmental, and civil society movements is an enviable one. And peaceful protest has often been vital in helping achieve this progress.
 

14:34

Long Furby memory hole "IndyWatch Feed National"

The year is 1998 and a spectre is haunting capitalism from ages six and upthe spectre of virtual and robotic kin. All the powers of the capitalist class have entered an unholy alliance to exploit this spectre: Tyco, Hasbro, and Mattel, or: Tickle Me Elmo, Furby, and Tamagotchi.

The post Long Furby memory hole appeared first on Overland literary journal.

14:13

Huge double-digit % drops in most retail spending categories year-on-year. "IndyWatch Feed National"

There's an overall modest increase in spending, but only because of food items - the only categories to record growth on last year (we've gotta eat). But imagine you're operating a business in these markets; Jewellery (down 21.1%), Home Furnishings (down 17.5%), Electronics (down 15.9%) and Lodging (down 14.8%). Apparel...

14:01

Pan-African News Wire "IndyWatch Feed National"

88-year-old Australian Doctor Freed 7 Years After Kidnapping by Islamic Extremists in West Africa

By ROD McGUIRK

FILE - Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong listens beside Philippine Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo during a joint press conference at a hotel in Makati City, Philippines on Thursday May 18, 2023. An 88-year-old Australian doctor held captive in West Africa for more than seven years has been released, the Australian government said on Friday, May 19.(Lisa Marie David/Pool Photo via AP, File)

CANBERRA, Australia (AP) An 88-year-old Australian doctor held captive by Islamic extremists in West Africa for more than seven years has been freed and has returned to Australia.

Ken Elliott was safe and well and was reunited with his wife and their children on Thursday night, Foreign Minister Penny Wong said.

Im very pleased to advise that Dr. Ken Elliott, whos been held hostage in Western Africa for some seven years, has been reunited in Australia with his family, Wong told reporters in Sydney.

Elliott and his wife were kidnapped in Burkina Faso, where they had run a medical clinic for four decades. Jocelyn Elliott was released three weeks later.

We wish to express our thanks to God and all who have continued to pray for us, Elliotts family said in a statement released by Wongs department.

We express our relief that Dr. Elliott is free and thank the Australian government and all who have been involved over time to secure his release, the family statement said.

Wong said no ransom was paid to secure Elliotts freedom, but no other details on his release were disclosed. Media reported he was reunited with his family in Perth, the west coast city where he is from.

At 88 years of age, and after many years away from home, Dr. Elliott now needs time and privacy to rest and rebuild strength, the family added.

The militant group behind the kidnapping, Al-Qaida in the Islamic Maghreb, rose to prominence in large part through kidnap-for-ransom operations targeting foreign aid workers and tourists....

14:01

Why Ukraine Must Lose to Save the World "IndyWatch Feed National"

QUESTION: Mr. Armstrong, I originally thought you were just a Putin supporter. Yet as time has gone by, it is becoming very clear that you are correct and that Zelensky is waging this war for the West to conquer Russia. His meeting with the Pope and rejecting his offer to mediate clearly established he will not seek peace. Are we headed into a nuclear war? Did Ukraine really shoot down a Russian hypersonic missile?

Concerned

KL

ANSWER: There is a major problem with Ukraines claims of shooting down a barrage of supersonic missiles. This cannot be confirmed independently and Ukraine is notoriously always putting out fake news typically to get more money. The incentive to create this type of fake news is that Western countries who have been supporting Ukraine are concerned that the military support for Kiev may soon peak as they run out of funds. There is concern that funds for Ukraine will be curtailed ahead of the 2024 presidential election in the United States, the Financial Times recently reported. The Neocons are desperately trying to create World War III before the 2024 election. They are fighting against any cutbacks for Ukraine. This has highlighted that European officials now are increasingly concerned about the flow of aid next year as the US enters a divisive presidential campaign.

According to the FT, Washington has been Kievs major source of military aid. US officials interviewed by the newspaper say the remaining funds preapproved by Congress could sustain Ukraine for about another five months. Western officials in regular contact with the US over Ukraine told the FT that Washington sees that period of time as the last real chance for Kiev to change the situation on the ground. There is a twist. That is the debt ceiling and funds would stop flowing after June 1st unless Biden yields on his insane agenda.

European official told the FT newspaper We cant keep the same level of assistance forever.  Politico reported earlier that only $6 billion of the original $48 billion military aid package that the US had approved previously i...

13:24

MSNBC interview on The Palestine Laboratory "IndyWatch Feed National"

My US mainstream TV debut just happened!

MSNBCs Medhi Hasan introduced my new book, The Palestine Laboratory, and gave it the proper context. Then we spoke about Israels ethno-nationalism, the arms trade and using Palestine as a testing ground.

The fact that this discussion can happen, on prime-time US TV, shows that theres an increasingly open space (in some places!) to discuss Palestine.

The post MSNBC interview on The Palestine Laboratory appeared first on Antony Loewenstein.

13:20

Anti-protest laws in SA must be blocked "IndyWatch Feed National"

The Human Rights Law Centre is calling on the South Australian Legislative Council to block proposed anti-protest laws that were rushed through the House of Assembly by the Malinauskas Government. If passed, the laws would undermine the ability of everyone in SA to exercise their freedom to peaceful protest.

The Summary Offences (Obstruction of Public Places) Bill 2023 (SA) could see people hit with fines of up to $50,000 and three-month jail terms, merely for blocking a footpath. It disproportionately criminalises peaceful protests, for instance people handing out pamphlets about gambling harm in front of a shop in Rundle Mall, or workers gathering on a footpath to demand better pay and conditions.

In the last five years, New South Wales, Tasmania, Victoria and Queensland have all passed anti-protest laws which impose severe penalties on people for engaging in peaceful protest. South Australias proposed anti-protest laws would carry the harshest financial penalties in Australia.

David Mejia-Canales, Senior Lawyer at the Human Rights Law Centre said:

Two days after the Malinauskas government told gas corporations that the state is at their service, the SA Government is making good on its word by rushing through laws to limit the right of climate defenders and others to protest.

Australias democracy is stronger when people protest on issues they care about. But the SA Governments knee-jerk action in response to peaceful climate protestors at an annual fossil fuels conference, is yet another attack on peoples right to protest.

The right to protest is fundamental to our democracy; from First Nations land rights to the eight-hour workday - protest has been crucial to achieving  many important social changes. 

This knee-jerk reaction by the South Australian government will undermine the ability of everyone in SA to exercise their right to peacefully protest, from young people marching for climate action to workers protesting for better conditions. The Legislative Council must reject this Bill.

Background

On Wednesday morning, Extinction Rebellion protesters suspended themselves from a bridge and closed traffic for 90 minutes.

By Thursday afternoon, the SA Government, with support from the opposition passed changes to the Summary Offences Act, which currently imposes a $750 fine and no jail time.

Photo credit: Michael Coghlan from Adelaide, Australia, CC BY-SA 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

Media contact:
Thomas Feng
Media and Communications Manager
Human Rights Law Centre
0431 285 275
...

13:17

Swedish review of my new book, The Palestine Laboratory "IndyWatch Feed National"

The leading Swedish daily newspaper, Aftonbladet, has published a fascinating story about the Nakba and my new book, The Palestine Laboratory. Written by Shora Esmailian, the article assesses the legacy of the Nakba and how Israel now uses the weapons of war to promote itself around the world.

Heres the PDF: Shora Esmailian om Nakba, 75 r

The English translation (via Google Translate):

The violence against Palestine breeds the arms trade
Today it has been 75 years since the Nakba the great catastrophe of the Palestinians

Remember the Palestinian General Strike of 1936 and the mass protests of 1939 that challenged the British colonizers transformation of the Palestinian Mandate into a national home for Jews.
Remember the 1967 war, when the West Bank, the Gaza Strip and the Golan Heights came under Israeli occupation.
Remember the first intifadas grassroots organizing with mass rallies, neighborhood schools, subsistence farming and feminist awakenings. Also remember the stones that were then thrown at the occupying forces.
Remember the so-called peace talks and Yasser Arafats handshake with Yitzhak Rabin.

Remember the armed struggle during the second intifada and also its suicide bombings. Remember the international activists who were run over and killed by Israeli bulldozers and snipers.
Remember the demonstrations in the West Bank against the wall. Remember those protests both through the ballot and in the streets against their own political leaders and remember the international calls for boycotts, sanctions and divestment to put pressure on the state of Israel.
Remember the rockets from Gaza and also remember the peaceful mass protests at its borders.
Remember Khader Adnan, the first Palestinian prisoner to die on hunger strike on May 2 this year.

Remember the entire Palestinian struggle on this day, when 75 years have passed since al-Nakba the great catastrophe for the Palestinians in 1948, when the State of Israel was established and between 750,000 and 800,000 Palestinians out of a population of almost two million were forced to flee. When 531 villages were razed to the ground, 15,000 people were killed and the rest were raped, beaten and captured.

The fight for freedom has been going on for almost a hundred years and is a smorgasbord. Its just a matter of picking and choosing among fighting organizations, ideologies and tactics. It has been peac...

13:06

Sky News Australia interview on PNG independence at risk under US security deal "IndyWatch Feed National"

PNG is set to sign a so-called security pact with the US though there are serious questions about the lack of sovereignty for the small nation.

I was interviewed about it on Sky News Australia, speaking as the co-founder and co-editor of Declassified Australia.

The post Sky News Australia interview on PNG independence at risk under US security deal appeared first on Antony Loewenstein.

12:58

Notes From The Front "IndyWatch Feed National"

from G5

McGregor, McGovern, and Johnson here; are sane Intel analysts. I had previously encountered McGovern.

Johnson correctly describes how Western Intel has been subjugated for the ridiculous belief that repeated false narratives of propaganda prevail. As absurd as the equally ridiculous notion of Shock and Awe.

Propaganda may have domestic political value at best. But what the Americanised suck in, has nothing to do with The Russian Military retaking Europe. This time from American NAZIS.

It widens...

12:23

Micro and nanoplastics may be affecting food safety "IndyWatch Feed National"

Micro and nanoplastics are pervasive in our food supply and may be affecting food safety and security on a global scale, a new study led by CSIRO, Australias national science agency, has found.

The study is one of the first to analyse the academic literature on microplastics from a food safety and food security risk viewpoint, building on past studies which primarily tracked plastics in fish.

It shows that plastics and their additives are present at a range of concentrations not only in fish but in many products including meat, chicken, rice, water, take-away food and drink, and even fresh produce.

Plastics enter the human food chain through numerous pathways

CSIRO analytical chemist, food safety specialist and lead author of the paper, Dr Jordi Nelis, said these plastics enter the human food chain through numerous pathways, such as ingestion as shown in the fish studies, but one of the main ways is through food processing and packaging.

Fresh food for example can be plastic free when its picked or caught but contain plastics by the time its been handled, packaged and makes its way to us, said Dr Nelis.

Machinery, cutting boards, plastic wrapping can all deposit micro and nanoplastics onto our food that we then consume. This study highlights the need to understand what plastic could end up in food to manage food safety and security.

Biosolids

Another important pathway for these contaminants to enter our agriculture system is through biosolids sourced from wastewater treatment.

Biosolids are a rich fertiliser for agricultural land, but they can contain plastic particles from many sources, such as from the washing of synthetic clothing.

These particles could build up in the soil and change the soil structure over time, which may affect crop production, food security and ecosystem resilience. For example, plastic materials can trick the good bacteria in the soil into thinking they are the roots of plants, meaning the plants end up with less of the nutrients they need.

The study also discussed how additives in plastics that help make plastic work in our modern world can leach into our environment, potentially contaminating our food supply. Additives that make plastic flexible or resistant to UV radiation, for example, can include flame retardants, heavy metals, phthalates, hardeners or other chemical compounds.

More research is needed

There are currently no definitive studies that demonstrate micro and nanoplastics in the environment cause harm to humans, however more research is needed to fully understand health effects.

More research is also needed to better understand the effects of plastics and their additives on food safety and...

11:00

Professor Ian Plimer book launch Not For Greens "IndyWatch Feed National"

The Institute of Public Affairs launch of Ian Plimer's new book from Connor Court Publishing, 'Not For Greens', in Melbourne on Tuesday 22 July 2014.

10:57

Binance Australia partner hints at rising scams after debanking exchange "IndyWatch Feed National"

Cuscal, the company that handles the Australian dollar on- and off-ramping for the exchange, declined to comment specifically on why it decided to pull support for Binance Australia.

10:52

Richmond Valley Councils ambitious growth agenda "IndyWatch Feed Northcoast"

A new Community Strategic Plan (CSP) for Richmond Valley Council has set what they call an ambitious growth agenda for 2040, including more people, housing, jobs and green spaces.

The plan also sets key directions to ensure communities are sustainable, and that Council protects the environment and uses natural resources wisely.

By 2040, the Richmond Valleys population is expected to grow by 4,000, creating some 2,000 extra employment opportunities, including 600 direct jobs from the Regional Job Precinct. There is also a plan to unlock flood-safe lands with room for 2,000 new homes.

A pathway for steady, responsible growth

General Manager Vaughan Macdonald said the new CSP sets a pathway for steady, responsible growth in the Richmond Valley, which would provide much-needed homes for local families, more jobs for young people and more services and facilities for our towns and villages.

There are many exciting initiatives ahead in the next 20 years as we finish the major works weve begun and open new opportunities for our Valley, said Mr Macdonald.

We will deliver our plans to secure long-term water supplies, provide new and upgraded water and sewage infrastructure and enhanced community facilities across the entire Valley to support the more than 2,000 new homes which can be built on flood-safe land.

Mayor Robert Mustow said the preceding natural disasters challenged and redefined the way we lived but did not redefine our sense of community and the values we share.

The threshold of change and opportunities

Cr Mustow said in the first long year after the flood, Council worked with its community to rebuild the Valley, which now stood on the threshold of change and opportunities. Councils focus remains on continuing to build back better after the floods, while harnessing new opportunities to grow and diversify our economy and provide much-needed housing for our community. 

Council has developed four key directions for its future plans based on the feedback it received from the community consultation program.

  1. Strengthening our role in the region
    This direction is based on the Richmond Valley Growth Management Strategy, recently adopted by Council, and the remaining actions of the Rebuilding the Richmond Valley Recovery Plan. It also includes strategies from the Key Directions in Economic Development paper recently presented to the local business community for consulta...
    ...

10:38

How real estate agents get away with selling dodgy properties "IndyWatch Feed National"

<div id="cyclelinks"></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href= "https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkj1wZ761Xlr_K_vXIsfIxKTGJwN44r582NfhL0ALuugXx7BApSs1dvKd-nHg2_Zwpy8MQ9VQwHyjsX36085nzdY__0ODNzmqUBy87IwEwm82Emb5uObPuKoAOUZhtmPtYRulhQPqWqQ_2Jb-8h5YkWGPBOydq_0iCaF0EMNjmzVBKfrHvK5z_hchIcg/s1023/Ray%20White.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src= "https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkj1wZ761Xlr_K_vXIsfIxKTGJwN44r582NfhL0ALuugXx7BApSs1dvKd-nHg2_Zwpy8MQ9VQwHyjsX36085nzdY__0ODNzmqUBy87IwEwm82Emb5uObPuKoAOUZhtmPtYRulhQPqWqQ_2Jb-8h5YkWGPBOydq_0iCaF0EMNjmzVBKfrHvK5z_hchIcg/s320/Ray%20White.jpg" width="320"></a></div> <br> <p class="dropcontent">The colonys laws have been set up to benefit actions in business/commerce/trade.</p> <p class="dropcontent">The tax system has been (deliberately) geared up to the benefit of corporations, many avoid paying tax altogether for their entire business existence. </p> <p class="dropcontent">Throughout all this unfairness persons who participate in the economy have been classified as consumers, where consumer law has been introduced to give an illusion of fairness.</p> <p class="dropcontent">Sure, many examples can be brought up in court cases where the corporations lost and the consumer allegedly won.</p> <p class="dropcontent">Australia is a protectionist nation, and will go to any lengths to keep this, irrespective of how the consumer is harmed, as long as the government isnt.</p> <p class="dropcontent">One industry that is allowed to continue racketeering is the real estate industry, because the government directly benefits from this.</p> <p class="dropcontent">IF a licenced motor car trader sells an automobile, checks & balances must be made, where the road-worthiness of the vehicle must be proved with the appropriate paperwork.

The onus is then on the (licenced) seller.

No such luck in the the real estate market.

In MANY instances a residential dwelling is presented to a prospective consumer and the realtor is fully aware of the dwellings pitfalls, which are deliberately hidden from the purchaser.</p> <p class="dropcontent">Not only this, but the agent is absolved from any responsibility or liability, where a 180 is done and this falls on the purchaser, under a scam called due diligence.</p> <p class="dropcontent">In Victoria, the due diligence checklist falls under the responsibility of the consumer as stated in the institution called Consumer Affairs Victoria, at the time of this post, under the address: <a href= "https://www.consumer.vic.gov.au/duediligencechecklist"><i><span style="color: #38761d;"> https://www.co...

10:32

Tampons in the men's toilets at Sydney Uni: inclusion. "IndyWatch Feed National"

Unbelievable. These are crazy times. TAMPONS AND SANITARY PADS IN MEN'S TOILET Sydney university. Decline of Western civilisation accelerates. pic.twitter.com/vbIPluFStG Dr David Adler (@DrDavidAdler1) May 18, 2023

10:26

Supreme Court rules for social media giants in cases over third-party content, declines to address Section 230 "IndyWatch Feed National"

Supreme Court rules for social media giants in cases over third-party content, declines to address Section 230 --The major question of how far Section 230 should go remains unanswered | 18 May 2023 | The Supreme Court on Thursday handed big tech companies, including Google and Twitter, legal wins in a pair of lawsuits alleging that the companies should be liable for ISIS [I-CIA-SIS] attacks because of content the terror organization promoted using their platforms. The companies were sued separately by the families of the victims. In the case against Twitter, Justice Clarence Thomas authored a unanimous opinion saying that the families did not provide sufficient evidence to establish that the companies should be held liable for aiding and abetting... The justices declined to answer the question of how far the scope of Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act goes. The nearly 30-year-old law gives digital platforms a measure of immunity from some criminal and civil claims.

09:44

Review into betting ads must target all digital avenues "IndyWatch Feed National"

Associate Professor, School of Economics, Finance and Marketing at RMIT, Dr Lauren Gurrieri. Photo supplied.

The issue of gambling advertising has resurfaced after federal opposition leader Peter Dutton announced that the Coalition government will move to ban sports betting advertising during the broadcasting of games and that would include air time an hour on either side of a sporting game.

The Prime Minister Anthony Albanese told media that he personally finds betting advertisements during sporting matches annoying and that there is a review underway.

Its not enough

But Associate Professor, School of Economics, Finance and Marketing at RMIT, Dr Lauren Gurrieri, says that concentrating efforts around footy matches is not enough.

Gambling marketing is pervasive and is increasingly becoming normalised as part of sporting culture more broadly.

Duttons call to ban sports betting advertising during and on either side of the broadcast is an important step in the discussion towards decoupling this association. However, it wont be enough to deter people.

Dr Gurrieri says every year the gambling industry continues to up its investment in advertising. According to Nielsen Research, Australias gambling industry increased its spend on advertising by almost $200m in 10 ye...

07:53

Fossil fuels to reap $57.1 billion from Australian taxpayers "IndyWatch Feed National"

Matthew Elmas  wrote (the new Daily 4 May 2023) about the escalation of government subsidies handed to fossil fuel companies, as the government spruiked its claim that it will act far more decisively and go further on the reduction of carbon emission. It doesnt add up. Its time to put an end to it.

The value of subsidies and tax breaks for fossil fuel companies across Australia will reach a record $57.1billion in the next four years.

A new report by the Australia Institute found subsidies for fossil fuel giants in federal and state budgets will soon cost taxpayers 14 times more than the Disaster Ready Fund.

Although the Albanese government has stopped some of the Morrison governments more egregious handouts, it has kept other ones, said Rod Campbell, a research director at the Australia Institute.

Total assistance to fossil fuel producers from governments has fallen from $11.6 billion in 2021-22 to $11.1 billion in 2022-23 $9.7 billion of which will come from federal coffers.

From there, however, payments will rise to a record level in the next four years, driven by expectations of even higher fuel tax credit payments.

A year on from the climate election and we have fossil fuel subsidies breaking records in tandem with the rising global temperatures that put our economy at risk, Mr Campbell said.

Australian governments are now planning to spend more on exacerbating climate change through these subsidies than they are on getting ready for climate disasters.

Prominent examples of federal fossil fuel handouts identified in the report include a $1.9 billion plan to support a petrochemical hub in Darwin and $141 million for carbon capture and storage.

Exemptions under the fuel tax excise for fossil fuel companies are tipped to generate $7.8 billion in tax credits for fossil fuel firms in 2022-23.

Major gas projects like Middle Arm Sustainable Development Precinct and the Kurri Kurri Power Station are receiving huge handouts from the Commonwealth government, Mr Campbell said.

These subsidies provide a huge opportunity for governments that are looking to cut costs and take climate action. Its time to stop funding climate change and start funding the response.

Am...

06:45

Be a firefighter on open day "IndyWatch Feed Northcoast"

Byron Bay Fire Station Deputy Captain, Matt Crisp, says the station is looking for more people to join the the On-Call Firefighting team. Photo Tree Faerie.

Byron firefighters will hold an open day this weekend which is just as much about fun as it is about the serious issues of fires.

There will be activities for everyone there will be giveaways and free safety advice. Its a great opportunity to speak to firefighters about your Home Safety Plan and book a free Safety Visit.

...

06:41

Market Talk May 18, 2023 "IndyWatch Feed National"

ASIA:

 

Japans economy experienced a faster-than-expected recovery in the first quarter, coming out of a recession caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The growth was primarily driven by increased consumption following the pandemic, which helped counter the challenges posed by global economic conditions. However, concerns have arisen due to signs of a slowdown in economic growth in the United States, Europe, and China. This uncertainty has raised questions about when the central bank can withdraw its extensive stimulus program. Recent government data showed that Japans economy grew by 1.6% in January-March, surpassing market expectations and marking the first increase in three quarters. The nominal gross domestic product also reached a record high, supported by rising prices.

 

The major Asian stock markets had a mixed day today:

  • NIKKEI 225 increased 480.34 points or 1.60% to 30,573.93
  • Shanghai increased 13.09 points or 0.40% to 3,297.32
  • Hang Seng increased 166.68 points or 0.85% to 19,727.25
  • ASX 200 increased 37.60 points or 0.52% to 7,236.80
  • Kospi increased 20.74 points or 0.83% to 2,515.40
  • SENSEX decreased 128.90 points or -0.21% to 61,431.74
  • Nifty50 decreased 51.80 points or -0.28% to 18,129.95

 

 

The major Asian currency markets had a mixed day today:

  • AUDUSD decreased 0.00437 or -0.66% to 0.66153
  • NZDUSD decreased 0.00357 or -0.57% to 0.62123
  • USDJPY increased 0.851 or 0.62% to 138.521
  • USDCNY increased 0.04441 or 0.63% to 7.05311

 

 

Precious Metals:

  • Gold decreased 25.84 USD/t oz. or -1.30% to 1,955.88
  • Silver decreased 0.306 USD/t. oz or -1.29% to 23.420

 

Some economic news from last night:

Japan:

Adjusted Trade Balance increased from -1.21T to -1.02T

Exports (YoY) (Apr) decreased from 4.3% to 2.6%

Trade Balance (Apr) increased from -755.1B to -432.4B

Australia:

Employment Change (Apr) decreased from 61.1K to -4.3K

Full Employment Change (Apr) decreased from 82.5K to -27.1K

Unemployment Rate (Apr) increased from 3.5% to 3.7%

New Zealand:

PPI Input (QoQ) (Q1)...

06:35

Amber alert for blue-green algae at Uki "IndyWatch Feed Northcoast"

An amber alert has been issued for the Tweed River at Uki.

Tweed Shire Council has issued an amber alert for blue-green algae in the Tweed River at Uki, two weeks after declaring an amber alert for Clarrie Hall Dam.

Councils Water and Wastewater operations Manager Brie Jowett said the amber alerts meant blue-green algae might be multiplying in the affected waterways.

...

06:23

Episode 30: A Long, Strange Trek "IndyWatch Feed National"

Its our first actual installment of Whiskey & IR Theory in Space! We discuss Star Trek: The Next Generations gay rights episode, The Outcast, which Dan uses to introduce his students to different modes of reading the politics of (and in) science fiction. PTJ and Dan summarize the episode (can you spoil an 30+ year-old TV show?), discuss their own reactions to it, and then Dan talks about how his students respond to it differently now than they did a 10-15 years ago. The two hosts conclude by descending into rambling geekery as they discuss what theyll cover in the second installment of the series. 

The answer, by the way, is the two short stories that PTJ opens his class with: Ursula K. Le Guins The Ones Who Walk Away from Omelas, and N.K. Jemisins Those Who Stay and Fight. 

The Whisky: Port Charlotte CC:01

05:57

Secret Service refuses to hand over emails naming Biden's Delaware visitors "IndyWatch Feed National"

Republicans have been demanding answers on the lack of transparency on visitor logs from President Joe Biden's Delaware home and the response they just got won't make things better moving forward. The U.S. Secret Service is reportedly refusing to hand over emails identifying visitors to Biden's homes in Delaware as a Freedom of Information Act request was filed. The officer said in a letter: "Please be advised that emails reflecting visitors to President Biden's residences in Wilmington, Delaware, and Rehoboth Beach, Delaware are not agency records subject to the FOIA. See Doyle v. U.S. Dep't of Homeland Sec., 959 F.3d 72 (2d Cir. 2020) (finding that emails regarding expected visitors to the sitting President's residence were not agency records subject to the FOIA.)." The NY Post noted that it had filed its own FOIA request and that the Secret Service claimed last year that "no records were located" of Biden's Delaware visitors. It reported: "A Secret Service FOIA officer cited a...

04:13

SA sets new low for anti protest law "IndyWatch Feed National"

Extinction Rebellion and other climate activists have made their presence felt in Adelaide over the last week with a series of protests targeting Australian Petroleum Production and Exploration Association (APPEA) and their fossil foolish champions such as Santos, and the Labor government has responded with extraordinary over-reach in response to the mere hint of a little disruption. In contrast they have advised the fossil fuel industry they are at their disposal

Contrary to many politicians belief nonviolent disruption and protest has a history in social movements going back many years. Yes folks, we did not win workers rights, the 8 hour day, votes for women and Aboriginal people, and saved national treasures like the Daintree, Kakadu, Walmadan/James Price Point, and old growth forests across the country by standing quietly in the corner, and waving a sign. Disruption was involved. Nonviolent disruption. Civil disobedience.

In terms of this week, its difficult to work out which aspect is more shocking

  • A South Australian Labor government seemingly writing up and smashing through legislation in one day, increasing penalties for Obstruction of a Public Place by 7000% in response to the Liberals throwing around a figure of a $50,000 fine on talkback radio to punish climate protesters in a valiant attempt to steal the crown from NSW Labor and their widely condemned protest laws rapidly passed in a few days
  • Santos Ltd demanding that a climate activist pay them $4900 for a cleaning fee apparently with a serious face, with their track record of shocking environmental vandalism outlined below. And apparently telling APPEA conference they were on the right side of history
  • The South Australian Police Commissioner casually wishing he could cause death or serious injury to an Extinction Rebellion activist hanging from a rope as part of the APPEA protests activists. ...

02:19

Russia fields new artillery system "IndyWatch Feed National"

Russia's first-ever wheeled self-propelled howitzer, the 2S43 Malva, has successfully completed trials and will enter service, Director of Uralvagonzavod Aleksandr Potapov said on Wednesday. The weapon has been described by the media as Moscow's answer to French-made Caesar howitzers, some of which were delivered to Ukraine last year. "Yes, the Malva should soon join [the troops]. Everything is fine with it," Potapov told TASS news agency on the sidelines of the MILEX-2023 arms expo in Minsk, Belarus. Equipped with a 152-mm gun, the Malva (Mallow) is designed to fire at a wide range of targets, including enemy artillery batteries and armored convoys. It is more mobile and less expensive to produce than tracked systems.

01:15

Pan-African News Wire "IndyWatch Feed National"

Russia Sanctions Embassy Bank Accounts in Response to Finlands Unfriendly Acts Kremlin

Dmitry Peskov reiterated that the principle of reciprocity and the principle of an appropriate response to unfriendly steps would continue to prevail in relations

 Russian Presidential Spokesman Dmitry Peskov Mikhail Metzel/TASS

Mikhail Metzel/TASS

MOSCOW, May 18. /TASS/. Russia will not let the unfriendly actions of other countries go unanswered, adhering to the principles of reciprocity and responding appropriately, Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters on Thursday.

Speaking about the restrictions placed on the use of the bank accounts of the Finnish embassy and consulate general in Russia, the Kremlin spokesman pointed out that, "this is not an initiative of the Russian side." "We are only responding to the situation created by the authorities of a number of Western countries, including, to our regret, Finland," Peskov said. "We always say that we cannot and will not let any unfriendly action go unanswered," the Kremlin spokesman pointed out.

According to him, Moscow's response to Finland's note will include a reiteration of Russia's position: "The principle of reciprocity and the principle of an appropriate response to unfriendly steps will continue to prevail in our relations."

On Wednesday, Russian Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova confirmed that restrictions had been placed on the use of the bank accounts of the Finnish embassy and consulate general in Russia. She pointed out that these actions were a mirror response to similar restrictions placed on the Russian diplomatic mission in Finland, which has been limited to using an account at a Finnish bank only. Zakharova noted that Russia has repeatedly raised the issue of lifting restrictions on Russian diplomatic missions with the Finnish side. However, according to her, Finland has chosen a non-constructive approach, which contradicts the obligations of the host country to ensure the normal functioning of forei...

00:15

World Meteorological Organization predicts one year in the next five will almost certainly be the hottest on record and theres a 66% chance a single year will cross the crucial 1.5 global warming threshold "IndyWatch Feed Northcoast"


.So what is driving the bleak outlook for the next five years? An expected El Nio, on top of the overall global warming trend, will likely push the global temperature to record levels. Has the Paris Agreement already failed if the global average temperature exceeds the 1.5 threshold in one of the next five years? No, but it will be a stark warning of whats in store if we dont quickly reduce emissions to net zero. [Dr Andrew King, Climate Extremes Research Fellow, School of Earth Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Melbourne, writing in The Conversation on 17 May 2023]


World Meteorological Organization (WMO), media release, 17 May 2023:


Global temperatures set to reach new records in next five years


Geneva, 17 May 2023 (WMO) Global temperatures are likely to surge to record levels in the next five years, fuelled by heat-trapping greenhouse gases and a naturally occurring El Nio event, according to a new update issued by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO).

...

00:00

The Science of Happiness: Understanding What Makes Us Happy "IndyWatch Feed National"

May 19th, 2023 By Amelia Harris Staff Writer for Wake Up World Happiness is a fundamental aspect of human life, yet it is often elusive and hard to define. What makes us happy? What factors contribute to our overall sense of well-being? These are questions that scientists have been studying for decades, and the answers []

The post The Science of Happiness: Understanding What Makes Us Happy first appeared on Wake Up World.

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Thursday, 18 May

23:47

The Plan for WHO Supremacy Over Human Health "IndyWatch Feed National"

From ANH-International

Much has changed since the World Health Organization (WHO) was established in the wake of World War II. Like a newborn, the WHO was initially nave and came in with noble intentions. It evolved its view of health, moving from one that was just the absence of disease, towards a more holistic concept, being a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being. At the heart of its Constitution it positioned enjoyment of the highest attainable standard of health as a fundamental right for every human being.

After two traumatic world wars, people recognised that a common patchwork of sovereign nations with shared ideals and priorities would be the best way of raising health standards around the world, while recognising that empowering individuals to take control of their own health would be a powerful step towards this goal. The Alma-Ata Declaration of 1978 makes a refreshing read. In particular: Principle IV, that reinforces the importance of the individual, as well as the collective, in planning and implementing their health care; and Principle VI, with a nod to Nuremberg and the Doctors Trial, requiring that primary health care must be based on practical, scientifically sound and socially acceptable methods and technology.

With the very recent, coercive manner by which C19 genetic vaccines were rolled out experimentally on the masses many of these often desperate to regain livelihoods and be released from lockdowns its clear that the WHO Constitutional principles and those from Alma-Ata, were disregarded (see here, or here).

Like a child transforming from innocent to nasty teenager, the WHO appears to have used the covid-19 crisis as a catalyst for an about-turn on its more altruistic and democratic approach.

In the case of a child, most cases can be put down to the negative influences coming from the immediate environment of that child such as the parents and the local community. With an organisation, its not that different because its down to who controls it; and the control of.........

22:36

New Zealands Record High Military Spending Will Please Its Dangerous Ally But Increase the Risk of Nuclear War "IndyWatch Feed National"

By New Zealand/Aotearoa for a World BEYOND War, May 18, 2023

A New Zealand peace network says the budgets record military spending will please our most dangerous ally the United States but dramatically increase the risk of propelling us into a nuclear war.

World BEYOND War spokesman and former Disarmament Minister, the Hon. Matt Robson, says the dramatically increased military spending a record $6.6 Billion is not driven by any real security needs but rather that Prime Ministers Ardern and Hipkins signed up to the containment policies of nuclear armed NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organisation).

The steady increases over the last five years, and the planned future big ticket items to make New Zealand interoperable with NATO, are  justified by the lie that New Zealand is threatened by China and Russia, he says.

The real security threat is New Zealand having a dangerous ally in US- led NATO, which is increasing its  bases and  concentrating its military might on Chinas doorstep, says Mr Robson.

As an Asian partner, along with big military spenders Japan, Australia  and South Korea the price tag of interoperability with  NATO is to continually increase military spending, he says.

Our biggest trading partner China has but two military bases outside of its territory, while the US and its NATO allies have them globally with almost 500, and expanding, in the Pacific.

The US is now seeking to add Papua New Guinea to that list. That tells you which country  is driving militarisation of the Pacific our most dangerous ally, the US, says Mr Robson.

World BEYOND Wars Vice President Liz Remmerswaal says this spending takes away from New Zealands social and economic needs at a time when people are hurting.

We are dealing with the effects of a global pandemic as well as cyclone damage and a climate crises, she says.

New Zealands social and economic development, the basis of our actual security, require cooperation with China on multiple levels, including climate change and development strategies with and for our Pacific neighbours, and this should be our focus, says Mrs Remmerswaal.

Our security is not served by going deeper into the nuclear arms of NATO and being at war with China and Russia.

The...

18:49

Australian Big 4 bank begins trial for cryptocurrency payment blocks "IndyWatch Feed National"

One of Australias Big Four banks announced efforts to combat crypto fraud activities aimed at reducing losses from scams.

18:11

Different Massage Types and Their Benefits "IndyWatch Feed Northcoast"

When you are stressed and want to indulge and pamper yourself, what do you do?

I, for one, would like to get a massage. But do you know that getting a massage is not only for pampering yourself but also one way to take charge of your health and well-being? There are many different types of massage, whether you have a specific health condition or are just looking for another stress reliever. Now, let me tell you what these types of massage are and their benefits.

Reflexology Massage

Reflexology is a specialised massage technique that focuses on pressure points in specific areas of the body, such as the ears, hands, and feet. It is an ideal choice for those who may not be comfortable with full-body massages.

Here are some key benefits of reflexology:

  • Headache and Migraine Relief: Reflexology helps to relieve tension in the muscles, particularly in the head and neck area. Since stress and psychological factors often contribute to migraines and headaches, releasing this tension can reduce their severity.
  • Nerve Stimulation: Reflexology stimulates various nerve endings in the body, enhancing their function and reactivity. Applying pressure to specific points can help improve circulation, promote relaxation, and restore balance to the nervous system.
  • Mood Enhancement: Reflexology has been known to boost mood by increasing metabolism and energy production processes. Adjusting the functions of different muscle systems can create a sense of overall well-being and relaxation.

In addition to reflexology, there is another notable treatment called Ultrasonic Fat Cavitation that focuses on body shaping. This procedure specifically targets fat cells through the use of ultrasonic vibrations. The high-pre...

17:08

Mealy-mouthed waffle from NSW Police Minister after police taser a 95 year-old woman. "IndyWatch Feed National"

A 95-year-old dementia patient is fighting for life after being tasered by police who found her armed with a knife in a nursing home at Cooma in the NSW Snowy region. Only the people who were there know what happened ... witnesses, the Police, and the woman - and there'll...

16:26

Victorian Bar Council promoting Albanese's Vanity Voice - plenty of pissed off members "IndyWatch Feed National"

From the notes I'm receiving this doesn't have unanimous support - here's a good example: As a member of Crim Bar Assoc I cant believe Hallowes believes he can speak/show support on my behalf in regards to political matters. The Victorian Criminal Bar Association supports the proposal to amend the...

16:25

16:12

"IndyWatch Feed Enviro.au" "IndyWatch Feed Nsw"

 https://australiainstitute.org.au/post/labor-greens-defence-experts-call-for-aukus-parliamentary-inquiry/

A range of high-profile politicians, former military leaders and academic experts have signed an open letter calling for a Parliamentary Inquiry into the AUKUS nuclear-powered submarine deal, appearing in full-page ads today in the Australian Financial Review.

The letter is signed by Senior Former Defence personnel, a former Labor Premier, two former Labor frontbenchers, and other politicians and high-profile individuals.

Experts warn that significant questions about AUKUS deal remain unanswered and require parliamentary scrutiny in the national interest.

Key Points:

  • Signatories include Former Labor WA Premier the Hon. Carmen Lawrence AO, former Labor Minister the Hon. Peter Garrett AM, Former Shadow Minister Doug Cameron and Former Labor MP the Hon. Melissa Parke
  • Senior Defence signatories include Former Chief of the Air Force Air Marshall Ray Funnell AC, and Former Dep. Commander of the UN Peacekeeping Operation in East Timor Major General Michael Smith AO.
  • Greens signatories include Senator Penny Allman-Payne, Senator David Shoebridge and Senator Jordan Steele-John
  • Signatories include former MPs Tony Windsor AM and Dr. Rob Oakeshott
  • Military, political, and academic experts and leaders have called for a parliamentary inquiry into AUKUS, citing a range o...

15:35

Bullis historic Denmark Hotel goes up for sale again "IndyWatch Feed Nsw"

BULLIS much-loved Denmark Hotel is up for sale again.

The heritage-listed building will be auctioned on June 24.

Owner, Sean Hannon, who reportedly has run out of steam, bought the former coaching inn and hotel in 2011 for $427,000 with a vision to transform the historic building into exclusive apartments.

After more than a decade and spending in excess of $100,000 on the project, which has been plagued in red tape from various government authorities, Mr Hannon has decided to sell the property.

For more on the history of the Denmark Hotel visit: Little House on the Hill, Bullis Denmark Hotel

Mr Hannon was given conditional approval by the Wollongong Local Planning Panel in December for the adaptive re-use of listed former Denmark Hotel as three residential apartments with associated parking and site works including vehicular access via the Miners Cottage site.

...

13:39

Australia's welfare mentality in one sentence "IndyWatch Feed National"

https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/changes-if-you-get-family-payments?context=22136#:~:text=From%2010%20July%202023%2C%20if,from%2085%25%20to%2090%25. Families taking in more than half a million a year DON'T NEED HANDOUTS.

13:17

US Congress members criticise IPEF digital proposals that conflict with US laws "IndyWatch Feed National"

May 18, 2022: Eight prominent Democratic Congress members have written a letter to US Trade Representative Katherine Tai expressing deep concerns about the secrecy of proposals on digital trade in the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF ) negotiations. They argue that proposals conflict with the Biden administrations efforts to restore competition and protect consumers, workers, and small businesses, particularly when it comes to Big Tech platforms.

They argue that broad proposals to prevent illegal trade discrimination against foreign companies have been used by companies to argue against other countries national public interest  laws on the grounds that they disproportionately impact companies headquartered in the US.

They document that these companies have sought US trade action against Canada for its pending Online News Act, which, like a U.S. bipartisan proposal, would require Big Tech platforms to pay for the news they profit from. US companies used trade discrimination arguments against similar laws in Australia

The letter documents that these companies have also attacked South Korean legislation that is similar to another bipartisan congressional proposal that reins in companies like Google and Apple from using their dominant app stores to extort app developers. And the US Chamber of Commerce has attacked both the European Digital Markets Act and bipartisan US legislation to prohibit anti-competitive self-preferencing, for allegedly engaging in trade discrimination against big US tech companies.

The letter also asks for IPEF not to limit governments ability to regulate artificial intelligence (AI) by preventing scrutiny of AI source code and algorithms. Companies are increasingly outsourcing important decisions to AI, in spite of clear evidence that it can discriminate on a massive scale through black box algorithms that can create inhumane and unsafe working conditions, make life-altering employment decisions, reject loan applicants, and misidentify women of colour in police footage.

The letter argues that it is not trade discrimination for the US government or any of our trading partners to regulate Google, Meta, Apple, Microsoft, and Amazon to protect online competition, as tech industry groups have claimed it is common sense, and trade-pact terms should in no way inhibit it.

The letter criticises the lack of detail provided to Congress and the deadline imposed to finish the negotiations by November 2023, saying an artificial deadline must not come before ensuring that the deal fulfills the Biden Administrations commitments to promote competition i...

13:04

Revolut launches business offering in Australia, seeks banking license "IndyWatch Feed National"

The crypto-friendly fintech said that the license would hold it to a higher regulatory standard that could give consumers confidence.

12:48

Materialising the internet (of things) "IndyWatch Feed National"

The debate about how our data is used is a valuable one, but a more substantial one can only be had once we stop seeing the internet as an immaterial flow of information and begin to see it as a vast material infrastructure, with equally vast resources demands and its own environmental impacts. We need to understand the construction of smart technology and the Internet of Things as coming from mines running on slave labour, lakes of toxic sludge, data centres with militarised security, and will possibly result in a second scramble for Africa.

The post Materialising the internet (of things) appeared first on Overland literary journal.

12:45

Everybody Knows, Part 15: Judge Ermines Court Is in Session "IndyWatch Feed National"

by Mary W Maxwell, LLB (Adel)

Good day, attendees of this session of the Brisbane District Court. I am Judge Ermine.

The case before us is The King versus Patrick ODea and Russell Pridgeon. The prosecutor for Queensland, please stand, is Miss Karen Grace Brumby. The defendants, please stand, are self-representing. Please be seated.

Audio recording is permitted; photographing is prohibited. As one of the defendants is hard of hearing. I have ordered a screen to placed in front of him with an instant printout of what is being said. If it fails to work, he should signal the bailiff.

This is the peoples court and it is also th...

12:24

Binance Australia suspends AUD fiat services, citing issues with third party "IndyWatch Feed National"

Australian dollar deposits and withdrawals have been impacted due to a decision made by its third-party provider, Binance Australia says.

12:00

Australia marks first FX transaction using a CBDC as eAUD pilot continues "IndyWatch Feed National"

The Australian digital dollar was used in a trade for a United States dollar stablecoin using an Ethereum layer-2 blockchain.

11:47

Cudgen Creek and headland being loved to death but can anything be done? "IndyWatch Feed Northcoast"

Visitors to Cudgen Creek at Kingscliff.

At this afternoons Tweed Shire Council meeting Councillor James Owen will propose that the Cudgen Creek Masterplan be prioritised as the area is being loved to death by both locals and visitors. However, Council staff have not supported the notice of motion (NoM).

The development of a masterplan was approved by Tweed Council at the 18 February 2021 council meeting. This was followed by a meeting in January 2022 between the Kingscliff Ratepayers and Progress Association (KRPA) and Cr Owen and Mr Stewart Brawley, following which it was determined that it was Councils intention to proceed with completion of the Masterplan in 2022, KRPA President, Peter Newton told The Echo. 

Concerns have been raised in relation to boat ramps conflicting uses, boats and jet skis around bathers; swimmers/snorkellers, walkers, cyclists; environmental damage and erosion in the water and banks; dilapidated infrastructure and accessibility issues among others states Cr Owens NoM.

...

11:12

Brittany Higgins DPP replaced "IndyWatch Feed National"

The sneaky left ACT Government has very quietly 'temporarily' replaced him..

11:02

Sexist NSW Greens: not one male MP "IndyWatch Feed National"

The sexist sisterhood is alive and well in the NSW Greens. Not one male MP. Where are the sexism "callers out"?? Disgusting. Feeling physically sick. Vagina festival. etc

10:38

The PM visits the Tweed to talk about childcare "IndyWatch Feed Northcoast"

Justine Elliot and Anthony Albanese getting building tips from the pre-school brigade. Photo supplied

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese paid a visit to the Far North Coast yesterday and met with a hard-to-impress group of non-voters, who asked the important questions, like, will there be discounted Lego for preschoolers and more time for toddlers to have a juice box and a nap?

Anthony Albanese took a tour of the Goodstart Early Learning centre in Tweed Heads with local federal MP Justine Elliot to highlight the important cost-of-living relief delivered in the recent Budget, including Labors plans for cheaper childcare.

The PM and Mrs Elliot met with teachers and children at the centre just in time to make the butterfly puzzlefly!

...

10:00

Booming Demand for Obesity Pill to Solve Junk Food Problem "IndyWatch Feed National"

As of 2021, the U.S. obesity rate among adults over the age of 20 was 41.9%.1 Unfortunately, people have been indoctrinated into thinking that magic pills are the answer, opposed to taking a long, hard look at your lifestyle, diet and eating habits.

Wegovy (semaglutide), given as a weekly self-injection, has become so popular that, in early May 2023, Novo Nordisk announced it would cut the supply of starter doses for the U.S. market to safeguard continuity of care for existing patients.2 As reported by CNBC:3

Novo Nordisk reported forecast-beating first-quarter sales Thursday following a spike in demand for its blockbuster weight-loss drug ... [Chief financial officer Karsten Munk] Knudsen said the company was ramping up supply every day, and currently had two contract manufacturers working to boost output, with a third expected to come online in the second half of 2023.

He added that there were further plans to increase production in the coming years. This is also a reflection of a very big market and a very big unmet need for safe and efficacious medication, and thats where Wegovy comes in, being very efficacious and safe for patients [with obesity], he said.

What You Need to Know About Wegovy

Wegovy was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in June 2021 for chronic weight management in adults with obesity or overweight with at least one weight-related condition (such as high blood pressure, Type 2 diabetes or high cholesterol).4

The drug is indicated for patients with a body mass index (BMI) of 27 or greater who have at least one weight-related ailment, or in patients with a BMI of 30 or greater.

According to the FDA, the active ingredient in Wegovy, semaglutide, works by mimicking a hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) that targets areas of the brain that regulate appetite and food intake.5

GLP-1, which semaglutide mimicks, also lowers blood sugar and slows the passage of food through your gut.6 Gastrointestinal side effects are so common, the dose must be gradually increased, from 0.25 milligrams to 2.4 mg over the course of 16 to 20 weeks.

In all, safety and efficacy have been studied in four 68-week trials involving a total of 2,600 patients who got the drug and 1,500 who got a placebo. In the largest placebo-controlled trial, nondiabetic patients who received Wegovy lo...

09:39

Exchanging students with Lismores Sister City "IndyWatch Feed Northcoast"

Brandon Yee with a gift from his Yamato Takada Student Exchange. Photo supplied.

This year Lismore City Council is looking forward to celebrating the 60th anniversary of the Sister City relationship with Yamato Takada this year as well as resuming the Sister City Student Exchange Program after it was postponed in 2019 owing to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The exchange will run from 26 September to 10 October during school holidays. The program provides Lismore secondary students the opportunity to experience Japanese culture and cuisine while being ambassadors for their city and school.

Lismore City Mayor Steve Krieg emphasised the importance of the Yamato Takada Exchange Program in providing unique and valuable experiences for young people.

Through this program, students have the opportunity to make new friends, connect with people from different parts of the world, and build bridges between different cultures.

Oldest Sister City relationship in Australia

This year marks the 60th anniversary of the Sister City relationship between Lismore and Yamato Takada, making it the oldest Sister City relationship in Australia. It will be a very special exchange program this year and I encourage all eligible students to apply for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

Council established a Sister City relationship with Yamato Takada on 7 August 1963 through the efforts of Father Paul Glynn. Father Glynn, who had been working in Yamato...

08:54

Rugby Australia now selling Albanese's Vanity Voice "IndyWatch Feed National"

Another blow for Albanese's Vanity Voice - Rugby supports it Today's full page ad in the Financial Review - it's as if the timing of announcements among the codes is co-ordinated! The Vanity Voice has all the kinds of people and organisations supporting it that leave regular Australians a little...

08:11

Leaders call for action on nuclear arms control "IndyWatch Feed National"

Contributed by Jim Hayes

A group of 256 former world leaders has called for the world to get nuclear arms control back on track, in an open letter to be delivered to this weeks G7 meeting in Japan. Having the names of 6 former heads of state, 20 cabinet-level ministers and experts from 50 different countries including China, Russia and the US lends weight to this initiative.

Japanese prime minister, Fumio Kishida, who is from Hiroshima, the victim of a nuclear bomb during the closing of World War Two, has called for the worlds powers to at least agree to a timetable for a roadmap to renew arms control talks.

Photo by Richard A Brooks/AFP/Getty: The Peace Memorial Park and the Atomic Bomb Dome in Hiroshima, where the G7 meeting is taking place

On 8 April 2010 the United States and Russia signed what is called the New Start II treaty, which replaced the Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty of 1991. It did not work, because the United States failed to keep up its side of the agreement. The first treaty, renamed Start1, expired in 2009.

The two powers were supposed to engage on partial denuclearisation, while still maintaining formidable stocks. A major problem was that the terms imposed by the United States on a weakened Russia after the collapse of the soviet union, ensured that it would maintain a superior position in ter...

08:01

FALLS TAKES A YEAR OFF "IndyWatch Feed Northcoast"

After an impressive 28 years ringing in the New Year with some of the worlds biggest acts, the Falls team are today switching on their OOOs and taking this New Years season off to rest, recover and recalibrate.

Coming out of two years of postponed events during Covid lockdowns, Falls made a spectacular return in 2022/23 with an all-star lineup that included Arctic Monkeys, Lil Nas X, Peggy Gou, Jamie xx, Chvrches, Spacey Jane, Amyl and the Sniffers, Genesis Owusu, PinkPantheress and crowd faves, The Wiggles, gracing stages in Byron, Fremantle and for the very first time Melbourne City.

Secret Sounds Co-CEO and Falls producer Jessica Ducrou said The past few years has seen unprecedented change in the live music space, both front of house and behind the scenes. While Falls reboot in 2022/23 was full of amazing moments and we were thrilled to reconnect with our Falls Fam, our team needs a break, so this year well take time off to enjoy the holiday period and allow some space to re-imagine how Falls will look in the future.

We send huge love and appreciation to all our patrons for their ongoing support and for the great vibes they brought to the 2022/23 events. You really are the heart and soul of Falls and we look forward to updating you with our plans when the time is right.

We also want to send our love and thanks to our extended Falls team including staff, contractors, volunteers, sponsors, partners, suppliers, stakeholders and key agencies that we work with each year, for their enduring passion, dedication and support said Ducrou.

www.fallsfestival.com

The post FALLS TAKES A YEAR OFF appeared first on Byron Bay Blog.

07:19

ZELENSKYS DRUG DEALER DETAINED "IndyWatch Feed National"

UKRAINE 26.08.2022 - 17982 views     

ZELENSKYS DRUG DEALER DETAINED REPORTS

 112  16  1 Share0   277 Support SouthFrontPDF Download


Zelensky's Drug Dealer Detained - Reports

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On August 25th, a drug dealer was detained in Kiev. According to Ukrainian media reports, the man was engaged in the supply of drugs for deputies of the ruling party of Vladimir Zelensky, Servant of the People.


A 48-year-old man was identified Yuriy Chernetsky. According to the local prosecutors office, he systematically sold cocaine in the capital of Ukraine. More than 20 bags of cocaine, as well as money, ammunition and scales were seized in his car.


Ukrainian media claimed he supplied cocaine to the president to the deputies of the Zelenskys party.


The suspect was detained with a possibility for release on bail of 4 million hryvnia. He faces up to 10 years in prison with confiscation of property.


Zelensky's Drug Dealer Detained - Reports

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Zelensky's Drug Dealer Detained - Reports

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Zelensky's Drug Dealer Detained - Reports

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Zelensky's Drug Dealer Detained - Reports

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President Zelensky often appears on public drugged. He was even suspected of being drugged during his interviews to foreign media. LINK


Advisor to the head of the office of the President of Ukraine Oleksiy Arestovich has recently called not to condemn Vladimir Zelensky for his addiction, confirming that the Ukrainian president as well as Ukrainian servicemen do drugs.


Zelensky's Drug Dealer Detained - Reports

Click to see full-size image

Answering the qu...

06:52

Market Talk May 17, 2023 "IndyWatch Feed National"

ASIA:

 

Indias economy is expected to grow by 5.8% in 2023, driven by strong domestic demand, although high funding costs and weak external demand pose challenges. The United Nations report also predicts a growth rate of 6.7% for India in 2024. Inflation is forecasted to decrease to 5.5% in 2023, aided by stable global commodity prices and a slower currency depreciation. In April, Indias retail inflation reached a low of 4.70%, staying below the Reserve Bank of Indias target range of 4%.

 

The major Asian stock markets had a mixed day today:

  • NIKKEI 225 increased 256.60 points or 0.84% to 30,093.59
  • Shanghai decreased 6.76 points or -0.21% to 3,284.23
  • Hang Seng decreased 417.68 points or -2.09% to 19,560.57
  • ASX 200 decreased 35.50 points or -0.49% to 7,199.20
  • Kospi increased 14.42 points or 0.58% to 2,494.66
  • SENSEX decreased 371.83 points or -0.60% to 61,560.64
  • Nifty50 decreased 104.75 points or -0.57% to 18,181.75

 

 

The major Asian currency markets had a green day today:

  • AUDUSD increased 0.00166 or 0.25% to 0.66716
  • NZDUSD increased 0.00331 or 0.53% to 0.62641
  • USDJPY increased 1.145 or 0.84% to 137.515
  • USDCNY increased 0.00583 or 0.08% to 7.00403

 

 

Precious Metals:

  • Gold decreased 6.61 USD/t oz. or -0.33% to 1,981.99
  • Silver increased 0.025 USD/t. oz or 0.10% to 23.758

 

Some economic news from last night:

Japan:

GDP (YoY) (Q1) increased from -0.1% to 1.6%

GDP (QoQ) (Q1) increased from 0.0% to 0.4%

Australia:

Wage Price Index (QoQ) (Q1) remain the same at 0.8%

 

Some economic news from today:

Japan:

Industrial Production (MoM) (Mar) decreased from 4.6% to 1.1%

 

 

EUROPE/EMEA:

 

Stellantis, one of the worlds largest car manufacturers, has warned that British car plants could shut down and result in significant job losses unless the Brexit deal is renegotiated promptly. The company, which owns brands such as Vauxhall, Peugeot, Citroen, and Fiat, explained that the current deal would subject them to...

06:51

Byron: pay rise likely for mayor and councillors "IndyWatch Feed Northcoast"

A successful request by Byron Shire Council to reclassify itself from Regional Rural to Regional Centre may well pave the way for an increase in pay for councillors and the mayor.

All councillors have to do is vote for their own pay rise.

The Local Government Remuneration Tribunal determines pay rates, and according to its April 2022 report, the maximum pay for a councillor in a Regional Rural Council (currently Byron Shire Council)is $21,100 pa, while the mayor can receive up to $46,040 pa. 

Extra perks 

Yet there are perks, benefits and extra allowances available. 

For example, a councillor who is a member of water utility Rous County Council can earn an extra $10,550 pa, while the mayor can receive an extra $17,330 pa as a member of Rous.

Both Mayor Michael Lyon and councillor Sarah Ndiaye are Rous County Council members.

The maximum a councillor can receive under the Regional Centre category is $25,310 pa, while the mayor can earn up to $62,510 pa.

According to the Local Government Remuneration Tribunal Determination 2023 document, the tribunal received four requests for recategorisation: Liverpool, Byron, Tweed and Burwood Councils. 

Reaching the population threshold

Byron Shire Councils argument for the reclassification was that based on ABS 2021 census data, with a population of 36,077, it is on the cusp of reaching the population threshold of 40,000 residents. 

It reads, Council believes they meet several other additional criteria that supports their case for reclassification. Councils request is based on the following grounds: Non-resident population of 4,817 travel from surrounding locations to work in the LGA; A population growth increase of 7.2 per cent over the last five years, which is above the state increase of 5.3 per cent; Proximity to Gold Coast and Ballina-Byron airports; Byron being home to internationally renowned hinterland region; Byron being home to a large number of festivals and events. 

The tribunal say that Tweed Shire Council will be reclassified to Regional Strategic Area.

The pay for executive council staff is pegged co...

06:45

What happened to the crabs around Lennox Head? "IndyWatch Feed Northcoast"

Crab-free intertidal zone north of Lennox Head. Photo supplied.

Long term local resident Donald Opie is worried about the loss of shellfish, seaweeds and crabs north and south of Ballina Shire Councils Skennars Head outfall, near Boulder Beach.

Mr Opie is concerned that rising levels of oils, microplastics and other contaminants are finding their way through the water system and affecting marine life, particularly in the intertidal zone and on the headlands, with small shellfish like barnacles and periwinkles increasingly hard to find.

He has been taking water samples from affected areas, and getting them scientifically tested. While fecal colifirm counts so far have been low, hes noticed increasing numbers of rainbow bubbles which dont occur naturally in the marine environment, and suspects they cant be explained away by boat sources.

Having been walking around the rocks of Lennox Point, Shelly Beach and Skennars Head for decades, Mr Opie has noticed big changes, especially in the last few years, with the crabs that once jumped off every rock when he was going for a surf now almost gone, and not a single crab at Shelly Beach.

...

06:43

You Can Spot A Narcissist From This Facial Feature, According To A Study "IndyWatch Feed National"

Are there any telltale signs of a narcissist beyond glaringly white teeth and an excessive number of selfies on their phone? Recent research suggests that the answer might be right above their eyes in their eyebrows, to be precise.

A study by the University of Toronto, featured in the Journal of Personality, proposes that individuals with distinguished eyebrows are more likely to exhibit traits associated with narcissistic personality.

The term narcissist originates from the ancient Greek tale of Narcissus, a youth who fell hopelessly in love with his own reflection in a pool of water. Generally, individuals with pronounced narcissistic traits rank high on the self-admiration scale. They frequently make positive initial impressions, appearing likable and charismatic, but also demonstrate self-centered and egotistical behavior, often coupled with an inflated sense of their own abilities or looks.

Heres a list of common traits often associated with narcissism:

  • Excessive Self-Importance: Narcissists often have an inflated sense of their own importance. They believe they are superior and expect recognition as such, even without commensurate achievements.
  • Sense of Entitlement: Narcissists typically feel entitled to special treatment and unquestioning compliance with their expectations.
  • Exploitation of Others: Narcissists are often willing to take advantage of others to achieve their own ends. They may disregard the feelings and needs of others.
  • Lack of Empathy: Narcissists may struggle to identify with the feelings and needs of others. They might dismiss or disregard the feelings of others as irrelevant or unimportant.
  • Envy: Narcissists may either believe others are envious of them, or they themselves may be envious of others.
  • Arrogance: Narcissists often display haughty or arrogant behaviors or attitudes. They might come off as conceited, boastful, or pretentious.
  • Fantasies of Success and Power: Narcissists often fantasize about unlimited success, power, brilliance, beauty, or ideal love.

Interestingly, they seem to have remarkable eyebrows too.

Remember, having a few of these traits doesnt necessarily mean someone is a narcissist. Narcissistic Personality Disorder, as diagnosed by professionals, is a severe and pervasive pattern that significantly impacts a persons life, relationships, and functioning.

The research team reached this conclusion by photographing nearly 40 undergraduate students with neutral facial expressions. These students were then subjected to a psychological evaluation known as the Narcissistic Personality Inventory to measure the potency of any narcissistic character...

04:24

Protests in Port Sudan target UN envoy and back the military "IndyWatch Feed National"

Protests in Port Sudan target UN envoy and back the military

Beja rally denounced by pro-democracy civilians and activists, as well as residents that want to keep the city calm
Mohammed Amin Wed, 05/17/2023 - 19:24
Beja leader Mohamed al-Amin Tirik speaks to a crowd in Port Sudan on 17 May (MEE/Mohammed Amin)
Beja leader Mohamed al-Amin Tirik speaks to a crowd in Port Sudan, on 17 May (MEE/Mohammed Amin)

Hundreds of people in Port Sudan protested on Wednesday in support of the Sudanese militarys battle against the Rapid Support Forces paramilitary, and called for the expulsion of the UN special envoy to Sudan, Volker Perthes.

The demonstration was not welcomed, however, by pro-civilian rule activists and political leaders, who regard the protesters as lending support and legitimacy to a military that has committed abuses, including the 2021 coup.

Residents of the city, meanwhile, urged all sides to calm the situation in Port Sudan, which has become an important haven for hundreds of thousands of people in the war-torn country, not to mention a commercial lifeline.

Led by the same people who have previously shut down Sudans chief port to place political pressure on opponents, there are fears that the rally could escalate at a time when stability and prosperity in Port Sudan are needed more than ever.

Sudanese of Beja ethnicity gathered in front of the offices of the Red Sea state local authority, which is also just a few metres from the Coral Hotel where Perthes is staying.

...

04:03

9 Signs That You May Be Unknowingly Living With High Functioning Depression "IndyWatch Feed National"

The shadow of stigma that surrounds depression and other mental health conditions is subtle yet widespread, often going unnoticed. It persists even when depression is being discussed openly, constraining how we understand and perceive the individuals living with depression and the different forms it can take. As such, certain indicators of high functioning depression may be missed even by those well-versed in mental health matters.

Depression is frequently portrayed as affecting predominantly white, cisgender, heterosexual women, and depicted as an overwhelming, debilitating sorrow that confines sufferers to their beds.  This perception fails to acknowledge the existence of high-functioning depression, thus depriving people of the opportunity to identify their condition and seek necessary help.

High functioning depression, also known as persistent depressive disorder (PDD) or dysthymia, is a chronic form of depression, as explained by the Mayo Clinic. Although the symptoms of high functioning depression may be less severe than those of major depressive disorder, WebMD notes that the depression symptoms can persist for a long time, often two years or longer. High functioning depression allows individuals to maintain their daily routines despite enduring feelings of sadness or fatigue. However, it remains a serious condition that requires attention and treatment. Your worth extends beyond your productivity, and you deserve more than just going through the motions. If any of the following signs resonate with you, consider consulting your GP to explore potential treatments.

1 Persistent Feelings of Sadness or Emptiness

Persistent feelings of sadness, emptiness or feeling down are a major symptom of persistent depressive disorder, according to the Mayo Clinic. Its normal not to feel joyous every moment of the day, but if you find that your usual state is one of sadness or numbness, it might be time to book an appointment with your doctor.

2 Disrupted Sleep Patterns

WebMD identifies insomnia or excessive sleep almost every day as another sign of high functioning depression. If youre routinely struggling to sleep or consistently getting 10 hours of sleep yet still feel tired at work, it might indicate a deeper issue that warrants professional advice.

3 Unexplained Physical Pain

If youre experiencing persistent headaches that no amount of painkillers can alleviate, or constant back pain with no discernible cause, it could be a sign of high functioning depression. Talkspace suggests that aches or pains, headaches, cramps, or digestive problems without a clear physical cause could be indicative of this condition.

4 Lack of Joy in Previously Enjoyed Activities

Psychologist Suzanne Leckie, in an interview with Womens Health Australia, noted that experiencing less pleasure in usual a...

04:01

Yamba NSW 2023: is anybody listening? "IndyWatch Feed Northcoast"

 

The road into Yamba, Clarence Valley NSW, 4 March 2022
Credit: Clarence Valley Council via Storyful in Yahoo!












To put it frankly Yamba townships f...

03:52

Elon Musk Interview Musk See Interview I Created AI May 17, 2023 "IndyWatch Feed National"

This is a very good interview. A mature adult conversation for a change.

Often I find Fox, for example, unbearable. Too much hysterics, too many loud aggressive voices. Not enough respect and patience with people being interviewed.

I dont watch any of the leftwing media in Australia and America. Too woke. Too much leftwing propaganda. Too much gay propaganda.

03:16

Chewed up and spat out: SBS documentary delves into world of megachurch Hillsong. SBS Australia "IndyWatch Feed National"

May 18, 2023

Heres another garbage documentary on Hillsong. By SBS Australia. Media are going nuts over Hillsong.

SBS Australia is supposed to be a multi-cultural tolerant government funded Australian media. In reality, SBS like ABC Australia, another government funded media is leftwing, Woke and intolerant of conservative Bible believing Christians.

This SBS documentary features a Pentecostal Christian who went gay. Another Tony Venn-Brown type. Theyre always so bitter. And so deluded from a Biblical point of view. I really find it very hard to listen to, watch or read about their moanings and tripe.

And they attack the Jesus, the Holy Bible and Biblical things. So from a Christian point of view theyre really agents of the Devil.

We must be very careful when and how we criticise Christians and the Christian Church.

Sure Brian Houston and his fellow Prosperity Gospel pastors worldwide are apostates, scammers, charlatans and are preaching another gospel, as the Apostle Paul put it.

Christian evangelism, Christian meetings, Bible studies, being filled with the Holy Spirit, divine healings, speaking in tongues, casting out demons and so on are all great New Testament things.

In the article below we read a lot of delusional trip...

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Wednesday, 17 May

23:17

The Tasmanian AFL Stadium Protest "IndyWatch Feed National"

Every now and then, the sharpened, dedicated means of halting a monstrous white elephant before its birth can work. The wise suddenly seem in charge, conscious and aware that folly can be averted. This, however, is a rare feat indeed. In Tasmania protests of some magnitude against a proposed stadium for Australian Rules Football are starting to have some effect. These have taken place against a dark backdrop: a persistent, critical housing crisis; the presence of homelessness; concerns about food and energy security, and healthcare.

On May 13, thousands gathered on Hobarts parliamentary lawns protesting the $715 million proposal that envisages a redevelopment of the Macquarie Point precinct, a rather disingenuous justification to build a needless 23,000-seat structure on prime real estate using public funds. The package totalling $745 million, also envisages upgrades for York Park (UTAS Stadium) in Launceston.

A conspicuous figure present at the protests was one of Australias more prominent authors, Richard Flanagan. As he wrote in The Age last month, Tasmania, and its population of 550,000 people, has two stadiums where AFL games are routinely played. Tasmania doesnt have a stadium problem. It has a housing and homelessness problem. Rents in Australias poorest state have almost doubled over the last five years; affordable properties were elusive to those on Youth Allowance and JobSeeker.

In its myopic vision and scope, the stadium could be said, argues Flanagan, to be a symbol of government inaction on these issues that blight Australias smallest state. In addition to housing, it has Australias worst public health system, and, with 50 per cent illiteracy, a public education problem.

Also present at the protest was federal Tasmanian Senator Jacqui Lambie, who proved to be both colourful and agitated. Tasmanians, she declared in her address to the crowd, have had a bloody gutful over the stadium and you can stick it up your bum.

In what must surely be considered an act of self-harm, the Tasmanian Liberals also find themselves in a governing minority largely because of Premier Jeremy Rockliffs edifice fetish. A day before the large protests, Liberal backbenchers John Tucker and Lara Alexander quit the party. As Alexander reasoned, The proposed shady deal to build a stadium in Hobart has sharply divided the community. While she did not often agree with her opposite nu...

22:04

Grooming event held today at Parliament House in Melbourne "IndyWatch Feed National"

Dictator Daniel Andrews has hosted a child grooming event inside Parliament House!!! A groomer event...

18:31

Whats in the budget for you? "IndyWatch Feed National"

THE Black Dog Institute welcomes the Albanese Governments first full Federal Budget which included $586.9 million in new funding for mental health as well as $14.6 billion in cost-of-living support. 

Helping people meet their basic needs feeding their family, having a roof over their heads, keeping the lights on is as much a mental health measure as it is economic,

Black Dog Institutes First Nations Director Clinton Shultz said the Institute welcomed the $10.5 million in new funding towards supporting the social and emotional wellbeing of First Nations people in the lead up to, during and following the Voice referendum. 

First Nations people are already feeling the impact of the referendum debate. Weve seen increased distress in communities around our country, Mr Shultz said. 

We hope this funding can be used to both understand and prevent social and emotional impacts to First Nations people, not only during the Voice debate but through the whole implementation of the Uluru statement including Truth and Treaty processes. 

The Black Dog Institute welcomes funding for The Essential Network (TEN), providing a tailored mental health service for frontline healthcare workers and the National Emergency Worker Support Service (NEWSS) a mental health service for employed or volunteer first responders, including police, fire, ambulance, maritime rescue

18:30

Banksia Hill riot prompts further calls for reforms "IndyWatch Feed National"

FOLLOWING another riot at the notorious Banksia Hill Youth Detention Centre, the union that represents prison guards has added its voice to those calling for a change in the way youth justice is approached in Western Australia. 

Aboriginal, legal and health experts and the CPSU/CSA all say the problems at Banksia Hill have been well documented and represent a failure of government policy and investment. 

The latest major disturbance started after a number of detainees escaped their cells on Tuesday night and gained access to the grounds of the centre before climbing onto the roof. 

The riot was brought to a close after armed officers were sent in. 

Premier Mark McGowan said the behaviour of the youths was a form of terrorism and activists should not make excuses for them. 

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Social Justice Commissioner June Oscar said the premiers response wasnt good enough. 

Here was an opportunity for us to acknowledge the depth of the issues and the problems that are leading to why these children are in Banksia Hill in the first place and why theyre on the

18:29

Voice inquiry backs laws "IndyWatch Feed National"

A CROSS-PARTY parliamentary committee has backed laws setting up a referendum to enshrine an Indigenous Voice in the constitution. 

The inquiry report, released on Friday, said the need for constitutional recognition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples is unquestionable.

Witnesses spoke about the torment of powerlessness, how it impacts Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders and threatens to affect their childrens lives, and their children, the report said.

They spoke about the potential for a Voice to overcome this powerlessness. 

While some witnesses raised concerns regarding certain aspects of the legislation, the committee is satisfied that the constitution alteration is not only fit for purpose but also will enhance Australias systems of governance and laws, the report said. 

The committee has only one recommendation: the passage of the constitution alteration, unamended.

Committee chair and Labor senator Nita Green noted the late Indigenous leader Yunupingu called for an honest answer from the Australian people to an honest question. 

This is an honest question; it is now time for the Australian people to be given the opportunity to provide an honest

18:27

TITLES TURN 10 "IndyWatch Feed National"

A TOP-LEVEL national Indigenous surfing event will mark its 10th year this month, cementing itself as the premier event in its field. 

The Australian Indigenous Surfing Titles will mark its return to Djarrak/Bells Beach on Wadawurrung Country on Victorias Surf Coast.

The event brings together First Nations surfers from across the country including Western Australia, Queensland, NSW, South Australia and Victoria. 

Surfing Victoria is excited to welcome back the Australian Indigenous Surfing Titles to Bells Beach/Djarrak, Surfing Victoria chief executive Adam Robertson said.

The event is an incredible showcase of First Nations surfers and a true gathering of surfers from around the country.

Divisions at the AISTs including Open-age men and women, junior boys and girls under-18s, over- 35s, Elders longboard. 

Were excited to welcome the leading First Nations surfers to Djarrak for the Australian 

Indigenous Surfing Titles, Surf Coast Shire mayor Liz Pattison said. 

As a council, we support events that encourage people to stay longer on the Surf Coast in our off-peak season, and appreciate and care for this place. Its exactly what these national titles do, welcoming top First Nations surfers from across Australia to connect with each other and connect with

17:53

Why the media silence on Paul Kent's domestic violence arrest? "IndyWatch Feed Nsw"

Former Australian Cricketer Ian Healy quite rightly asks - why has the rugby league media in Sydney gone soft on one of their own, Paul Kent and his arrest on domestic violence and choking allegations? The footballers, cricketers, and celebrities they frequently cover don't get the same treatment: https://twitter.com/SENQLD/status/1658261063941623808?s=20 Healy...

17:36

No Dig Veggie Gardens "IndyWatch Feed National"

No dig garden bed

On a recent trip to my local shopping centre (one of those monolithic structures so big it has its own postcode) I was shocked to discover that the fashions of the 80s were back!

Despite the hefty price tag and designer labels on many items, I still couldnt comprehend it. I mean, the gear we wore in the eighties wasnt that great then I cant imagine what has prompted its resurgence! Either Ive been avoiding fashion for too long (and just about anyone who knows me would agree with that), or it is true what they say fashion and trends do go in cycles.

This got me thinking about garden trends and design styles, and the recent flurry of interest I have had in the construction of no dig gardens. Daily, my inbox is full of requests for information on no dig gardens what are they, how do they work, why are they so good, and, most importantly, how to construct them. And, just like that dreaded eighties fashion, no dig gardens have come back into vogue.

But, despite what many people may think, they are not a new concept. No dig gardens have in fact been documented since the 1800s, but the pioneer of the no-dig gardening concept is Masanobu Fukuoka of Japan, through his excellent 1953 book entitled The One-Straw Revolution. Mr Fukuoka, we salute you!

What is No Dig Gardening?

As the name suggests, no-dig gardening is all about going up, rather than down, essentially a patch above ground. Although it can be known by a number of different names, no-dig gardens are definitely NOT no-work gardens! Yes, there may be less work in setting up a no-dig patch (as opposed to the traditional dig down style of garden) but its important to remember that all gardens, particularly edible ones, require on-going maintenance, monitoring and work. Think above-ground pool vs. in-ground pool they all need work to keep them looking good, but it is somewhat easier to install an above ground pool.

Why we love them

There are so many things to love about no-dig vegetable gardens, so lets start from the ground up! No-dig veggie gardens are fantastic in Australia, as a great deal of our soil is nutrient deficient, hard to work and somewhat inhospitable to our favourite herbs and vegetables. As these raised beds do not require the soil beneath them to be dug over before installation, the risk of damage to the structure of the soil is minimised (especially important on clay soils).

Construction of these types of gardens has the two-fold advantage of both protecting and improving the...

17:14

What can we learn from disaster communities? "IndyWatch Feed Northcoast"

It is just over one year since a record-smashing flood and landscape collapse event raged through the Northern Rivers. In the media frenzy of the floodiversary there is plenty of attention on trauma, frustration, government failure or upon the heroics of what must have been one of the largest most successful civilian rescue [...]

17:00

Canada And Chinas Diplomatic Tit-For-Tat Is A Warning For America "IndyWatch Feed National"

China dictator Xi JinpingBiden should reach out to Canada and Australia's leaders and learn from their experiences in dealing with the CCPs political interference.

Advancing prop tech "IndyWatch Feed National"





 this is real progress on props.  we are getting it now because we can use 3d printing to mock up trial props for testing.  In the past it meant cranking up the machining tools and every best guess was only so good.

I do think that the big market will be in the water.  They have to find a way to cast them and finish with machining.  Yet every outboard needs this and every power boat.  That number is actually finite and we can tune them with printed props in order to get them right.  Then apply speed with metal and perhaps some trim then

We have needed a better prop solution forever.


16:33

Australian Endangered Species Conservationists Celebrate As 29 Animals Removed From The List "IndyWatch Feed National"

Reddit

In an incredible feat, Australia has managed to recover at least 29 different animals after undergoing a rather large-scale research project study where they were able to officially remove them from the endangered species list.

This list, also known as Australias Protection and Biodiversity Conservation (EPBC) Act has at least 446 species of different animals that require immediate care and protection at the moment, however now, at least 29 species are now no longer on that list. According to the report, these include 15 mammals, 8 birds, 4 frogs, a reptile and a fish.


Some of these critters are the golden, Western barred, and Eastern barred bandicoots, Western quoll, sooty albatross, waterfall frog, Flinders Range worm-lizard, yellow-footed rock wallabies, greater bilby, humpback whale,...

16:10

Dumb idea: Energy minister fires at Peter Duttons nuclear power plan, urging him to come clean about the facts "IndyWatch Feed Nsw"

The Climate Change and Energy Minister took aim at the Liberal leaders dumb nuclear power plan, telling him to come clean about the facts of the alternate energy source.

Yashee Sharma, Digital Reporter,14 May, https://www.skynews.com.au/australia-news/politics/dumb-idea-energy-minister-fires-at-peter-duttons-nuclear-power-plan-urging-him-to-come-clean-about-the-facts/news-story/c98bcf8500bcc643c93b008b19bc9995


Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen has debunked nuclear power statements spruiked by Coalition leader Peter Dutton.

Mr Dutton in his second budget reply on Friday said that any sensible government must consider small modular nuclear as part of the energy mix.

He disputed the Labor governments climate change policies, warning they were putting the country on the wrong energy path.

In response, senator Bowen took to social media with an almost 2-minute-long video on why Peter Duttons nuclear plan is a dumb idea for Australia.

He took aim at the Opposition leader, questioning why the former Liberal government had nine years to introduce the nuclear energy but never got around to it.

Because its a very bad idea, he answered in the video.

The Labor Minister factchecked Mr Dutton with three reasons why nuclear power was not suitable for Australia, with the first being its hefty $400 billion price tag.

He referenced CSIRO findings that detail how renewable energy is the cheapest form of power while nuclear energy the most expensive.

Wherever nuclear power plants are being built around the world, they are taking longer and costing much more than budgeted for, he said.

Even small modular reactors would cost a massive $5 billion each to build and proponents say we need as many as 80 small nuclear reactors spread across the country.

Thats a whopping $400 billion in cost.

Mr Bowen then fired at the huge delays in nuclear reactor construction, claiming that it would take more than a decade to establish a nuclear power industry.


Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen has debunked nuclear power statements spruiked by Coalition leader Peter Dutton.

Mr Dutton in his second budget reply on Friday said that any sensible government must consider small modular nuclear as part of the energy mix.

He disputed the Labor governments climate change policies, warning they were putting the country on the wrong energy path.

In respo...

15:56

More than ten Drag Queen Story time events cancelled "IndyWatch Feed National"

READ MORE AT BINARY At last Australians are waking up to the danger of Drag...

15:06

Text and video of Former Frankston Mayor Glenn Aitken speaking at the Stop the Great Wall of Frankston Rally 13 May 2023 "IndyWatch Feed National"

 

The following is much of the text of Glen Aitken's remarks between introductions of other speakers. Glen was the presenter of the rally, but he was also asked to speak before or after or between introducing other speakers.  So the transcript below is compiled of a number of interesting things he said in that context, particularly the insights he provided about how council operates, and especially his advice about how the people of Frankston could help the Council to stand up to the bully that State Governments and ministers have become.  [Glen does not actually call them bullies, but they clearly act that way.  The great fear of council is that they will have their powers even more severely abrogated by the state government if they don't give it everything it demands.]

Transcript of a compilation of Glen Aitken's comments

[Some Councillors] didn't really want to know about it and cried other people down who were trying to make great improvements for your local city. And we're actually in the shadow of one of the buildings that came out of that bad decision making here today. [The South East Water building on Kananook Creek esplanade.]

In the years that I was in Counsel [] I always worked to try and get a better planning outcome with all the applications that came before us in the chamber as far as was possible. What happened in Frankston was about seventeen, eighteen   oh, it would be twenty years ago now - the whole concept of transit cities, was put to us and other key places around Melbourne, such as Box Hill and Dandenong.

Now, councils were promised a treasure trove of money, development, stimulated economies. And, of course, councils wanted to see that in their local area, but one of the conditions, I suppose, of a Transit city is high-rise buildings. Now, in Dandenong, they've received a vast amount of money to redevelop Dandenong centre, and that's very obvious. If anybody has been to Dandenong. You can see all the boulevard, the white areas of paving, and other buildings going up. ...

15:00

Is AR6 the worst and most biased IPCC Report? "IndyWatch Feed National"

By Andy May This is the text of my presentation on Tom Nelsons podcast which can be viewed here. The question and answers start at about 18:15 into the interview.

12:58

Nimbin Aquarius Festival 50th anniversary colourful celebration on Mothers Day "IndyWatch Feed Northcoast"

A Living Peace Mandala was created in front of the Rainbow Chai Tent. Photo Beverley Callow

The vibrant and lively Nimbin Aquarius Festival caravan, adorned with an array of bells, whistles, and rainbow flags, made its way to the Channon Craft Market last Sunday, marking a momentous celebration of both the Aquarius 50th Anniversary and the cherished occasion of Mothers Day. The 50th celebrations continue throughout the coming week with a range of art, music and discussion. 

...

12:47

Edition 801 on sale now! "IndyWatch Feed National"

WALKING to Mount Everest base camp was something that Waanyi and Kalkadoon man Joshua Creamer just had to do.

With no prior training, the Brisbane barrister took on one of the biggest challenges of his life as a reset. 

My youngest brother committed suicide after having mental health battles and it was pretty brutal getting through this year, Joshua said. 

Sorry business knocks you out and I needed to challenge myself physically and mentally. 

Id never aspired to do Mount Everest before, but Id been watching the TV series Alone, where people survive in the wilderness. 

I knew I needed a reset and I thought Im going to do
this.

So, within the week, he bought hiking gear and jumped on a plane to Nepal. 

I didnt do much research before I went, or I would have scared myself, Joshua laughed. 

Leaving his Brisbane-based legal practice, his wife and children, Joshua caught a small plane to Lukla the worlds most dangerous airport. 

I was sitting on the plane behind the pilot and the whole time the plane sounded like its going to crash, he said.

I thought am I going to die here? 

More on this story in our current edition.

12:45

Shine a light on neurofibromatosis: the awareness event that lights up Australia "IndyWatch Feed Nsw"

Shine a Light will light up buildings blue and green in May. Photo www.ctf.org.au/page/285/shinealight

Neurofibromatosis (NF) awareness month in May is an important event for those living with a condition that has been in the shadows for too long. A debilitating and unpredictable condition, NF is one of Australias most common genetic neurological disorders. Over 10,000 Australians are affected by NF, and yet awareness surrounding it is still very low. To shine a light on this disease and acknowledge the struggle of all affected by it, over 100 of Australias most prominent landmarks and buildings will light up blue and green on 17 May. 

Neurofibromatosis is a group of genetic disorders that manifest differently in every individual, however, it can cause tumours, hearing loss, blindness, physical variations, abnormalities in the bones, learning difficulties, chronic pain, and cancer. People born with NF require constant care, and unfortunately, there is not yet a cure for this condition. Scientists have struggled for many years to understand the intricacies of this complicated disease, and many questions still remain to be answered. 

The Childrens Tumour Foundation (CTF) is currently helping to raise awareness surrounding NF, through continuing advocacy, campaigns and crucial fundraising activities. During this years NF Awareness Month, events and activities include the Shine a Light on NF light displays, a virtual...

12:38

Grasslands Audit - "It's like a doctor giving you a check-up but failing to report that you have a missing hand" - VNPA "IndyWatch Feed National"

Yes, the audit is harsh in some of its detail, but it could have gone much further if it wasnt so heavily constrained by its scope," say the Victorian National Parks Association, adding that, Its like a doctor giving you a check-up but failing to report that you have a missing hand." Candobetter Ed: Well, what else would be expect of a Victorian Government biodiversity audit, when high-rise developers have overtaken the state government? The bastards don't even want us to retain 1% of our grasslands, whilst they already have 90% of the nation's wealth!

An critical audit of the Victorian Governments flagship grassland conservation program is calling for major changes to protect some of the states most precious landscapes.

The long-awaited Strategic Audit of the Melbourne Strategic Assessment was tabled in parliament on Tuesday.

It made 16 recommendations to redesign the program, including a new governance framework to support better decision-making and risk management practices at all levels.

The MSA is an agreement between the Victorian and federal governments to protect matters of national environmental significance. This includes the critically endangered grassland communities and the bandicoots, frogs, lizards, and threatened plants that depend on them for their survival.

The MSA is also supposed to streamline development of the 60,000 hectares of land released for urban growth back in 2010.

But the Strategic Audit plainly describes the MSA as limited in scope, stating it lacks the comprehensive analysis of biodiversity values at an ecosystem scalerequired to achieve whole-of-landscape outcomes.

It highlights that critical gaps in vital data and knowledge hamper the MSA programs ability to adequately assess whether it is meeting its conservation commitments.

Conservation groups the Grassy Plains Network and the Victorian National Parks Association have called for effective governance of the failing program for years. 

Victorias grasslands have suffered huge losses since colonial settlement, with 99% destroyed by grazing, cropping and urban development. Once covering almost a third of the state, our native grassy ecosystems are on the brink of extinction.

But, if these recommendations are acted on, at long last we might get some change for the better, Grassy Plains Network facilitator Adrian Marshall said.

The audit found the few high-quality patches of grassland acquired by the MSA are stable which is good news but the bulk of the supposedly protected grasslands are in decline. It also highlighted a clear absence of any requirement to assess how effective different management options are. 

This backs up what....

12:33

Stopping legacy developments on floodplains no easy task for councils "IndyWatch Feed Northcoast"

An aerial view of Chinderah taken in the immediate aftermath of the flood on 28 February 2022. Photo supplied.

The risk that legacy and zombie development approvals on floodplains represent is significant, yet local councils appear hamstrung to take any real action on the issue without significant financial risks to individual councils. 

At tomorrows council meeting (Thursday, 18 May) Tweed Shire Mayor, Chris Cherry, has put forward a notice of motion (NoM) to seek legal advice on what if anything can be done to bring legacy developments consents into line with current development standards.

Tweed Shire Council (TSC) considers developments approved between 1980 and 2010 that have not been constructed and are of a higher order development than a residential house or alteration to a house as legacy developmen...

10:38

Biden too scared to come to Australia because of protests about Julian Assange? "IndyWatch Feed Nsw"

Darn it! I was just about to buy my Free Julian Assange shirt to wear in Canberra, and at the Sydney Opera House, and join thousands of others protesting wherever Joe Biden dares to show his face in Australia.

USA Republican House Speaker Kevin McCarthy said on Tuesday that a deal on the debt ceiling negotiations might be made by the end of this week. So perhaps all the panic about the US Debt Ceiling will not be necessary? So does Biden really need to cancel his visit to Australia?

Never mind hes still going to Hiroshima for the G7 summit. Thatll be OK. Everyone will say worthy things about how there must never be another nuclear bombing, and how we must all send drones, tanks, missiles etc to Ukraine . And theyll say it politely -thats the thing.

As for those bloody uncouth Australians heck someone might throw a rotten egg at Biden, such is our rage about the persecution of Julian Assange. I mean the Australian Prime Minister will of course bend over backwards to be polite, and not mention Assange. And Julians family and his other prominent supporters will be courteous.

But ya ca...

10:28

Secret Sounds cancels New Years Falls Festival "IndyWatch Feed Northcoast"

Falls Festival director Brandon Saul in 2017. Photo Tree Faerie.

Byron Shire-ites loved it and hated it, but we got used to having it around and it became part of the Byron Shire landscape, but this morning organisers Secret Sounds have announced that there will be no 2023/2024 Falls Festival over the new year period.

Hands in the air at the 2016-17 Falls Festival. Photo Jeff Dawson

The festival, which started in 1993 with a small one-day concert held in Lorne, Victoria, attracted nearly 11,000 people.

In 1995, the event adopted a two-day format and an additional event was added in 2023 at Marion Bay, Tasmania. 

Byron began in 2013

The Byron edition of the event was introduced in 2013 and ran in the same week, with artists being exchanged between locations.

...

10:03

6 Factors to Consider When Choosing a Criminal Defense Attorney "IndyWatch Feed Northcoast"

Its frightening when you or a loved one is facing criminal charges. Facing possible consequences like fines, probation, or even a prison sentence can make it difficult to think straight and unsure of what steps to take next. Sometimes, the right criminal defense attorney may mean the difference between jail time, freedom, or even acquittal. Consider these important factors when choosing one.

1. Reputation
You can research an attorneys reputation by checking their online reviews, requesting references, and reading testimonials. A well-respected attorney is more likely to have the respect of the court, and their reputation can help them negotiate better plea deals or lower bail amounts. It also ensures your attorney has the skills and knowledge to defend your case effectively.

2. Success Record
Ask about the attorneys history of successful defenses. Check their website, review sites, social media pages, or any other online resource where past clients may have left reviews. A good attorney will not shy away from displaying the testimonials of satisfied clients. Use your best judgment, and speak to their clients for a more comprehensive performance overview.

3. Expertise
While experience is crucial, its equally important that the attorney has expertise in handling the type of case you are facing. Different cases require varying levels of expertise, and an attorney who may be excellent at handling drug-related cases may not be best suited to defend an assault case. Do your research and select criminal lawyers from Gold Coast with specific experience related to your case.

4. Fees
Knowing what it will cost upfront is best before choosing the right lawyer. Some attorneys may work on a contingency basis, which means you pay nothing unless your case is won. Others may charge a flat rate, hourly, or by retainer. No matter the fee structure, understand the terms and ask for a written agreement. You may also inquire about payment plans or financing options if you cannot pay the entire fee upfront. Compare their rates with the average fees charged by other attorneys in the same field and ensure its affordable and...

10:00

Biowarfare Through the Food Supply "IndyWatch Feed National"

In an April 17, 2023, opinion piece in STAT News,1 Dr. Peter Lurie and Beth Ellikidis argue for the genetic engineering of food, claiming newer technologies can make highly targeted changes at the base-pair level one specific rung on the DNA ladder enhancing precision and reducing the likelihood of off-target effects in which the base pairs are unintentionally added to or deleted from the genome.

While targeted genetic engineering is indeed possible, and modern technology lowers the likelihood of unintentional additions or deletions, this precision does not guarantee there wont be adverse effects. One of the reasons for this is because many genes are multifunctional and can have multiple downstream effects.2,3

By altering a single gene, you can inadvertently affect the expression of hundreds of others. Whats more, the multifunctionality of genes is rarely intuitive. So, while it may seem convenient to genetically engineer cows without horns to prevent injury to other cows and farmhands, as suggested by Lurie and Ellikidis, theres no telling what that tweak might do to internal organs or biological pathways.

In turn, theres no guarantee that cascading effects will not alter the nutrition of the meat or dairy that comes from that cow. Maybe itll be fine, maybe it wont. The problem is that, oftentimes with genetically engineered foods, safety testing is minimal or absent.

Who Do Lurie and Ellikidis Answer To?

When assessing the trustworthiness of people, it can be worthwhile to look at their funding and various partnerships. In the case of Lurie and Ellikidis, both are in league with Bill Gates and other Great Resetters that are pushing to replace all natural foods with patentable, genetically modified foods.

Lurie a former FDA associate commissioner is the president of the Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI). In the summer of 2020, Lurie launched a comprehensive campaign to put Mercola.com out of business by sending the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the Federal Trade Commission after us based on bogus charges.

CSPI is funded by the Rockefeller Foundation, the Rockefeller Family Fund, Bloomberg Philanthropies and other billionaire-owned foundations. Its also partnered with the Cornell Alliance for Science, a global communications initiative whose primary funding comes from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. Greg Jaffe, who heads up CSPIs Biotechnology Project, is also the associate director of legal affairs at Alliance for Science.

Considering those ties, the CSPIs long history of promoting industry scien...

09:58

Footage of Groomer Event at Curtin House Rooftop Bar in Melbourne SHOCKS NATION "IndyWatch Feed National"

Link READ MORE AT XYZ Australians have been shocked by footage on social media of...

09:40

Rare dugong sightings in Tweed River boaties take care "IndyWatch Feed Northcoast"

A dugong similar to the one pictured above is believed to have made the Tweed River home with several sightings of this rare marine animal reported to Council over the past 12 months. Boaties are urged to take extra care in the Tweed River, not only to protect the animal but to protect its seagrass habitat. Photo Canva

Rare sightings of a dugong in the Tweed River over the last year have led to the belief that the dugong may have relocated to the Tweed River.

Boat operators are being urged to take special care in the Tweed River, with several sightings of a dugong reported to Council over the past 12 months.

While dugong are known to occur in Moreton Bay, the presence of one of these marine mammals in the Tweed is both unusual and exciting.

Flood 2022

Councils Team Leader Coast and Waterways Tom Alletson said it was believed the dugong may have relocated to the Tweed following the impact of the 2022 flood, perhaps having been displaced from Moreton Bay due to poor water quality.

Dugongs feed on seagrass beds and are entirely dependent on these habitats being extensive and healthy, Mr Alletson said.

So far it appears there may only be one individual dugong in the Tweed, and it is not known if it has been here permanently since the first sighting in May 2022. The most recent report to Council was received just last week and included a brief video.

...

08:59

6 Tips for Recruiting Senior-Level Employees "IndyWatch Feed Northcoast"

Recruiting top-level senior employees can be a daunting task for employers, as they come with years of experience and are often in high demand. These roles have high expectations and demand individuals with specific skills, experience, and personality traits. A poor hiring decision can be costly for any organization, both financially and reputation-wise. This blog post will dive into six key tips for recruiting senior-level employees.

1. Write a Detailed Job Description
A detailed and well-written job description will attract the right kind of candidates. Ensure that you include essential job requirements, expectations, and daily roles and responsibilities details. A clear understanding of the job responsibilities and required skills should be evident in the job description for potential candidates. Being upfront about salary and other benefits can make the position more attractive to candidates. A well-crafted job description will help filter out candidates who arent suitable for the role and attract those who are the best fit.

2. Ask for referrals
Current employees, industry contacts, and trusted job search networks are great referral sources. These people can provide valued recommendations, and you can guarantee that referred candidates have been pre-screened for the job. Referrals also come with the added advantage of knowing and fitting into the companys culture and environment, increasing the likelihood of hiring the right candidate. You can also incentivise referrals by offering bonuses to employees who refer successful candidates.

3. Use Executive Recruitment services
If you need to recruit senior executives with specific qualifications and experience in Gold Coast, executive search firms can assist you. These firms have access to a vast network of professionals who may not be actively seeking employment yet possess the necessary skills and experience to fill your openings. Through their broad network of contacts, executive recruiters can locate talented individuals who meet your recruitment criteria. Collaborating with executive recruitment on the Gold Coast can streamline your search for the ideal candidate while providing valuable insights into the hiring process and evaluating potential candidates.

4. Engage Passive Candidates
Not all qualified candidates are actively seeking new employment opportunities. Instead,...

08:36

Rental listings collapse (PropTrack) "IndyWatch Feed Nsw"

Biggest April fall in years

This doesn't look good for renters. 

Although rental vacancies are rising across many regions of Australia - and in Hobart and Canberra - overall, April's rental listings was the largest in many years, according to Cameron Kusher of REA/PropTrack. 

When comparing to the available rental stock from pre-pandemic days, the 40 per cent declines in Sydney and Melbourne are alarming, and the same is true for Brisbane, Adelaide, and Perth,


Source: PropTrack

CoreLogic's figures showed a similar picture, with rental vacancies falling to record lows. 

The Budget projects a population increase of around 2.2 million over the next 5 years, though projections often end up being on the low side. 

Investors often aren't keen or able to invest, with very tight lending restrictions in place, and new home s...

08:25

CWA calls for NSW govt to reject waste-to-energy incinerators "IndyWatch Feed Northcoast"

Waste to energy incinerator. Photo Falco Oberhausen.

State Member for Lismore, Janelle Saffin, says the NSW Country Womens Association (CWA) voted at its recent AGM to oppose waste-to-energy incinerators.

A waste-to-energy incinerator proposal for the Richmond Valley Jobs Precinct in Casino prompted local resistance, after a similar plan was rejected in Western Sydney owing to air pollution impacts. The Casino proposal, under the previous LiberalsNational government, came without any community consultation.

Additionally Casino, Lithgow, Goulburn and Parkes were locations excluded from a state-wide incinerator ban by the then NSW government.      

Ms Saffin said the Tabulam branch put the motion, which was one of several successful motions from the North Coast Group at the AGM in Bathurst this month.

She says, The CWA has adopted a policy to advocate for the newly elected NSW government to rescind its decision to establish waste-to-energy incinerators, and instead immediately introduce technology and waste reduction programs that use methods...

08:11

Reflections land grab to be taken up with minister "IndyWatch Feed Northcoast"

Terrace Reserve encroachment of public foreshore lands by Reflections. Photo Sean OMeara

Residents are again up in arms over Reflections Holiday Parks blocking public access along Simpsons Creek in Brunswick Heads.

The NSW government-run corporation operates the towns Terrace Reserve Holiday Park, among others, and the issue has been ongoing for over a decade.

Local NSW MP, Tamara Smith told The Echo the issue has come about because a privatised entity (Holiday Park Trust) that makes profit from the holiday parks is the same entity that puts forward a so called community map of the footprint of their park.

They set the boundaries of the holiday park and obviously have a vested interest in pushing the boundaries as far as possible. 

When councils managed the parks, it was less of an issue because the parks could not be sold off to private developers.

However, sinc...

07:24

CCTV released in appeal following public place shooting Ballina "IndyWatch Feed Northcoast"

Can you identify this car?

Investigators have renewed calls for information after a number of shots were allegedly fired into a home at Ballina last month.

About 9.15pm on Monday, 10 April, 2023, emergency services were called to a home in Brunswick Street, Ballina, following reports of shots fired.

At the scene, police were told that shots had allegedly been fired into the front of the property. No one was injured.

Police are asking the public to help identify this blue Ford.

Initial inquiries have led police to believe the incident is a case of mistaken identity.

...

06:36

Market Talk May 16, 2023 "IndyWatch Feed National"

ASIA:

Chinas industrial output and retail sales growth in April fell short of expectations, indicating a loss of momentum in the economy at the beginning of the second quarter. This has increased pressure on policymakers to support the post-COVID recovery. The data also revealed a further decline in property investment, raising concerns about the outlook for the worlds second-largest economy. Industrial output grew by 5.6% compared to the previous year, lower than the anticipated 10.9% increase. However, it was the fastest growth rate since September 2022. Retail sales, on the other hand, increased by 18.4%, the highest since March 2021, but still lower than the expected 21.0% growth. These year-on-year figures were influenced by the strict lockdowns and restrictions imposed in major cities in April 2022 due to the pandemic, which severely impacted Chinas growth in the previous year.

The major Asian stock markets had a mixed day today:

  • NIKKEI 225 increased 216.65 points or 0.73% to 29,842.99
  • Shanghai decreased 19.75 points or -0.60% to 3,290.99
  • Hang Seng increased 7.12 points or 0.04% to 19,978.25
  • ASX 200 decreased 32.40 points or -0.45% to 7,234.70
  • Kospi increased 0.89 points or 0.04% to 2,480.24
  • SENSEX decreased 413.24 points or -0.66% to 61,932.47
  • Nifty50 decreased 112.35 points or -0.61% to 18,286.50

 

 

The major Asian currency markets had a mixed day today:

  • AUDUSD decreased 0.00416 or -0.62% to 0.66564
  • NZDUSD decreased 0.00125 or -0.20% to 0.62275
  • USDJPY increased 0.515 or 0.38% to 136.625
  • USDCNY increased 0.03412 or 0.49% to 6.99342

 

 

Precious Metals:

  • Gold decreased 22.9 USD/t oz. or -1.13% to 1,997.70
  • Silver decreased 0.444 USD/t. oz or -1.84% to 23.666

 

Some economic news from last night:

China:

Fixed Asset Investment (YoY) (Apr) decreased from 5.1% to 4.7%

Industrial Production (YoY) (Apr) increased from 3.9% to 5.6%

Chinese Industrial Production YTD (YoY) (Apr) increased from 3.0% to 3.6%

Chinese Unemployment Rate (Apr) decreased from 5.3% to 5.2%

Australia:

Westpac Consumer Sentime...

06:02

Dont Tell Chat AI Anything You Wouldnt Want to See on a Billboard "IndyWatch Feed National"

Comments by Brian Shilhavy
Editor, Health Impact News

With the continual frenzy and hype over the new Chat AI software that is causing most people to fear being left behind if they dont start using it immediately, it is nice to see others in the field of technology start warning the public over some of the REAL dangers that this new Chat AI technology presents, such as recording and storing all of the personal data you choose to share with it, which then is included in the data that they use to answer questions for others.

PCMag has just published an excellent article by Neil J. Rubenking, who, like myself, is an old-school technologist who has been around since the 1980s watching all of this technology develop since the beginning of the computer age.

He is PCMags expert on security, privacy, and identity protection, putting antivirus tools, security suites, and all kinds of security software through their paces. (Source.)

His new article titled Dont Tell ChatGPT Anything You Wouldnt Want to See on a Billboard, is must reading for anyone who is enticed to start using all this new Chat AI software.

Chatting with an AI program feels personal and conversational, but dont be fooled. Heres why you should keep a lid on what you reveal to ChatGPT and its ilk.

by Neil J. Rubenking
PCMag.com

Excerpts:

ChatGPT is a gossip. Googles Bard, too, and maybe Bing AI. What you get out of them depends on all the information that went in. And thats precisely the problem.

Why?

Because everything you ask them, tell them, or prompt them with becomes input for further training. The question you ask today may inform the answer someone gets tomorrow....

06:01

Dont Tell Chat AI Anything You Wouldnt Want to See on a Billboard "IndyWatch Feed National"

Comments by Brian Shilhavy
Editor, Health Impact News

With the continual frenzy and hype over the new Chat AI software that is causing most people to fear being left behind if they dont start using it immediately, it is nice to see others in the field of technology start warning the public over some of the REAL dangers that this new Chat AI technology presents, such as recording and storing all of the personal data you choose to share with it, which then is included in the data that they use to answer questions for others.

PCMag has just published an excellent article by Neil J. Rubenking, who, like myself, is an old-school technologist who has been around since the 1980s watching all of this technology develop since the beginning of the computer age.

He is PCMags expert on security, privacy, and identity protection, putting antivirus tools, security suites, and all kinds of security software through their paces. (Source.)

His new article titled Dont Tell ChatGPT Anything You Wouldnt Want to See on a Billboard, is must reading for anyone who is enticed to start using all this new Chat AI software.

Chatting with an AI program feels personal and conversational, but dont be fooled. Heres why you should keep a lid on what you reveal to ChatGPT and its ilk.

by Neil J. Rubenking
PCMag.com

Excerpts:

ChatGPT is a gossip. Googles Bard, too, and maybe Bing AI. What you get out of them depends on all the information that went in. And thats precisely the problem.

Why?

Because everything you ask them, tell them, or prompt them with becomes input for further training. The question you ask today may inform the answer someone gets tomorrow....

05:46

Dont Tell Chat AI Anything You Wouldnt Want to See on a Billboard "IndyWatch Feed National"

Comments by Brian Shilhavy
Editor, Health Impact News

With the continual frenzy and hype over the new Chat AI software that is causing most people to fear being left behind if they dont start using it immediately, it is nice to see others in the field of technology start warning the public over some of the REAL dangers that this new Chat AI technology presents, such as recording and storing all of the personal data you choose to share with it, which then is included in the data that they use to answer questions for others.

PCMag has just published an excellent article by Neil J. Rubenking, who, like myself, is an old-school technologist who has been around since the 1980s watching all of this technology develop since the beginning of the computer age.

He is PCMags expert on security, privacy, and identity protection, putting antivirus tools, security suites, and all kinds of security software through their paces. (Source.)

His new article titled Dont Tell ChatGPT Anything You Wouldnt Want to See on a Billboard, is must reading for anyone who is enticed to start using all this new Chat AI software.

Chatting with an AI program feels personal and conversational, but dont be fooled. Heres why you should keep a lid on what you reveal to ChatGPT and its ilk.

by Neil J. Rubenking
PCMag.com

Excerpts:

ChatGPT is a gossip. Googles Bard, too, and maybe...

05:27

"IndyWatch Feed Nthamerica" "IndyWatch Feed National"

<p><p>Welcome to <a href= "https://www.thelastamericanvagabond.com/daily-wrap-up/" rel= "nofollow noopener" style="color: #ff0000;" title= "This link will take you away from steemit.com">The Daily Wrap Up</a>, a concise show dedicated to bringing you the most relevant independent news, as we see it, from the last 24 hours (5/15/23).<br> As always, take the information discussed in the video below and research it for yourself, and come to your own conclusions. Anyone telling you what the truth is, or claiming they have the answer, is likely leading you astray, for one reason or another. Stay Vigilant.<br> (<a href= "https://www.rokfin.com/TLAVagabond">https://www.rokfin.com/TLAVagabond</a>)(<a href="https://www.bitchute.com/channel/24yVcta8zEjY/">https://www.bitchute.com/channel/24yVcta8zEjY/</a>)<br> !function(r,u,m,b,l,e){r._Rumble=b,r[b]||(r[b]=function(){(r[b]._=r[b]._||[]).push(arguments);if(r[b]._.length==1){l=u.createElement(m),e=u.getElementsByTagName(m)[0],l.async=1,l.src="https://rumble.com/embedJS/u2q643"+(arguments[1].video?'.'+arguments[1].video:'')+"/?url="+encodeURIComponent(location.href)+"&args="+encodeURIComponent(JSON.stringify([].slice.apply(arguments))),e.parentNode.insertBefore(l,e)}})}(window, document, "script", "Rumble");<br> <br>  <br> <br> Rumble("play", {"video":"v2lkatw","div":"rumble_v2lkatw"});<br> <br> Video Source Links (In Chronological Order)<br> <br> <br> <br> <a href="https://tlavfreespeech.itemorder.com/shop/home/">The Last American Vagabond - Free Speech Absolutist | Big Frog Beaverton | powered by OrderMyGear</a><br> <a href="https://truthclothing.io/collections/tlav">THE LAST AMERICAN VAGABOND Truth Revolution Clothing</a><br> <a href= "https://thelastamericanvagabond.locals.com/post/4011202/the-azov-patriot-front-agenda-did-depleted-uranium-explode-in-ukraine-is-it-dangerous"> (10) The Azov-Patriot Front Agenda, Did Depleted Uranium ... - thelastamericanvagabond Community</a><br> <a href= "https://www.thelastamericanvagabond.com/us-govs-toxic-legacy/">US Gov's Toxic Legacy, The War On America Domestic Terrorism, E-Verify & The Partisan Trap
(22) LastAmericanVagabond (@TLAVagabond) / Twitter
(30) Decensored News on Twitter: " WATCH - Certain tweets by Gab CEO @BasedTorba appear to be censored when searching his account namely the ones where he responded to Musk directly &amp; rebutted his recent claims about why Twitter supposedly had to censor for the Turkish government, &amp; other such commentary. https://t.co/hNpljq8mBP" / Twitter</a><br> <a href= "https://www.ibtimes.co.uk/elon-musk-gives-government-pressure-censors-tweets-before-turkey-election-1715817">...

00:15

The second Albanese Government budget sees Australia's healthy international credit rating remaining intact "IndyWatch Feed Northcoast"

 

After the Albanese Government's first national budget was delivered soon after winning federal government, all three major global credit rating agencies - Moody's, S&P Global and Fitch - gave Australia's financial status the thumbs up.


On 30 January 2023 Standard & Poors again reaffirmed Australias AAA credit rating.


On the heels of the second Albanese Government budget Fitch Ratings also reaffirmed the nations AAA credit rating on 15 May 2023:


RATING ACTION COMMENTARY


Fitch Affirms Australia at 'AAA'; Outlook Stable

Mon 15 May, 2023 - 1:37 PM ET


Fitch Ratings - Hong Kong - 15 May 2023: Fitch Ratings has affirmed Australia's Long-Term Foreign-Currency Issuer Default Rating (IDR) at 'AAA' with a Stable Outlook.

...

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Tuesday, 16 May

23:34

The US is No Democracy! "IndyWatch Feed Nsw"

I just love it when all the media political pundits and talk show hosts ( News Talk?) throw out that word Democracy. You dont have to go to a ranch to find more bull excrement than that. Folks, this is not a democracy and probably never was one, all the way back to our founding. Why? MONEY MONEY MONEY is the answer. As long as the masters of our republic keep allowing private money into electoral politics you will continue to smell that bull excrement period!

The Open Secrets site follows the flow of money in political campaigns. After reading the enclosed data you may see why so many of our fellow citizens do not even bother to vote. Not good to do, but here is why, according to 2022 figures:

The average House of Representatives winner spent upwards close to $ 3 million. The loser spent on average around $800k.

The average Senate winner spent over $26 million. The loser spent around 1/2 of that ($13 million)

In my state of Florida DeSantis spent around $200 million. Democrat Charlie Crist spent $31 million, and people wonder why there was such a LANDSLIDE.

In 2022, 384 incumbents ran for re-election in the House 359 won!!

In 2022, 28 incumbents ran for re-election in the Senate 28 won!

If Claude Rains from the film Casablanca was monitoring things for our elections he would have said: I am shocked! There is massive spending going on here!

Statewide and local citywide races are not really different. If someone wishes to run for just about any elected office, where they allow party affiliations, if you are not from one of the Two Party/One Party gangs, then forget it buster! Oh yes, the only exclusion is for someone to be super duper wealthy enough to spend his or her own money to equal that of the other two gangsters. Or have some very very rich friends. If you cannot get your name and ideas out to the general public with an equally massive staff and volunteers. No way Jose! Money talks and everyone else walks! Is that what we want, super rich people being the only ones outside of the Two Party/One Party scam to win office?

In 1997, this writer was living in Indianapolis, Indiana. I was active in street protests against the empire, on both foreign and domestic issues. I was also a writer for a progressive weekly and was lucky to interview attorney Ed Garvey from Wisconsin. He was travelling the nation promoting the just passed Maine Clean Election Laws. In Maine, they actually were able to legislate some form of public funding of statewide elections. Candidates could decide to forego accepting private donations and rely on the small amounts of public funding for their campaigns. Obviously, their Republican and Democrat competitors would still outspend them...

22:57

Audio: New Episodes of Peace Witness with Liz Remmerswaal "IndyWatch Feed Nsw"

By Liz Remmerswaal, Vice President of World BEYOND War, May 16, 2023

Peace Witness features those who stand up to be counted as advocating for nonviolent ways of resolving conflict.

SONIA SMITH:


MAIRE LEADBEATER:

The post Audio: New Episodes of Peace Witness with Liz Remmerswaal appeared first on World BEYOND War.

22:50

Thwarting Facial Recognition - #SolutionsWatch "IndyWatch Feed Nsw"


We all know about the danger of a future society where we're all tracked everywhere we go every single day in real time by our phones or devices . . . but actually, it's worse than that! You're already being tracked everywhere you go, every day, and it doesn't matter whether you leave your phone at home just as long as you bring your face. Today on #SolutionsWatch, James explores some of the options that are on the table for heading off the facial recognition dystopia.

22:17

Ukraines EU Membership: Now Comes the Hard Part "IndyWatch Feed Nsw"

This summer marks a year since Ukraine became an official candidate for European Union (EU) membership under an accelerated process following Russias invasion. Kyiv currently sits at the doorstep of the negotiations stage, which could start this year according to EU officials. Historically, this stage is the longest, most technical, and bureaucratic part of the process, requiring extensive reforms under the Copenhagen criteria a set of political, legal, and economic membership conditions.

In June 2022, the European Commission recommended granting Ukraine candidate status with an understanding that Kyiv must implement seven steps to strengthen anti-corruption and rule of law standards. Kyiv recently stated that it has complied with each of these conditions. The decision now lies with the EU, who must determine if Ukraine fulfilled basic requirements before the rigid negotiation process can start.

While Ukraines progress from applicant to candidate status was rapid, advocates should temper expectations for subsequent steps toward membership; they will not be as swift or simple. Kyiv could be caught in pre-negotiation limbo akin to current Western Balkan EU hopefuls. For reference, it took Belgrade and Podgorica about two years to start negotiations after reaching candidate status. Tirana waited six years to open formal negotiations after becoming a candidate in 2014, while Skopje sat idle for 15 years before opening talks with Brussels. Each nation had a particular set of challenges prohibiting their progress, but these roadblocks were nowhere near Ukraines predicament of fending off an invading military prior to starting negotiations.

The EUs new accessions methodology, revised in 2020, is intended to make enlargement a more credible, predictable, and dynamic. But this modified approach likely wont yield faster results for Ukraine or current candidates. EU accession is grounde...

14:00

Power plants may soon go all in on carbon capture. But does it actually work? "IndyWatch Feed Nsw"

The EPAs new proposed rules will require U.S. power plants to slash pollution. But experts are divided on whether carbon capture is the answer.

In a remote field in Saskatchewan, not far from the border with North Dakota, the Boundary Dam coal power plant sends its exhaust into a massive system of pipes and tanks that absorb CO2 and then compress the gas so it can be shipped off to a nearby oil producer for injection underground. The carbon capture system, which cost more than $1 billion to build, first started running nine years ago. Its currently the only large-scale facility of its kind in use at a power plant anywhere in the world.

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05:54

Its time to embrace community-led conservation vs. the colonial kind (commentary) "IndyWatch Feed Nsw"

When I lived on the remote island of Beqa, in Fiji, I watched as foreign-based NGOs entered villages and told Fijians how to live their lives, saying things like no more eating ika bula (sea turtle), and it is time you stop fishing kawakawa (grouper). These environmental NGOs had good intentions, of course, but their work was ineffective. Why would a Fijian man who has been eating ika bula for traditional occasions since childhood suddenly stop because some white guy who spent three days in his village told him to? Why do international conservation organizations often ask Indigenous people to halt their traditional and sustainable practices instead of focusing on larger issues at play, such as the bycatch of giant fishing vessels? I went into conservation to answer the call to better our planet. People like me who want to dedicate their career to help this earth and all of its species will not accomplish anything by allowing any sort of continuance of traditional conservation. Most of our current models of international conservation are dated and ineffective. If we want to make real change, we need to change our mindsets. We need to challenge current conservation practice. The village of Naceva, Beqa, Fiji on a cloudy day. Image courtesy of Audrey Moreng. Some of international conservation today still takes on a new form of colonialism. Colonialism is the exploitation of people, often Indigenous, by a foreign power. It usually involves taking resources, making the colonizer more powerful, all while furtheringThis article was originally published on Mongabay

01:57

BEST OF THE WEB: Reality-blindness, and Ethics as Practical Reason "IndyWatch Feed Nsw"

Are moral standards real, relative, or both? Reading through Hill's overview of the history of western philosophy in After the Natural Law, I was reminded of a thought: that this history and development has largely been an ongoing battle between two opposing worldviews, with land lost and regained over the millennia. Materialism and idealism. Absolutism and relativism. Atheism and theism. Their seeds are all there in the ancient Greeks. But the land itself remains largely the same. And perhaps therein lies part of the answer: it is all the same land. As in, both positions occupy some ground, but like changing borders they miss the wider truth: that the land itself encompasses both. Reality can tolerate either extreme position, to a degree, because each takes into account a part of reality as a whole. But they are incomplete on their own, and when either demands exclusive worship like some tribal god, they commit a form of philosophical blasphemy. Borrowing somewhat from political...

01:29

Gwangju and the Fort Benning Connection "IndyWatch Feed Nsw"

NEW: A South Korean truth commission created by law in 2019 is seeking classified U.S. military and intelligence records for its wide-ranging investigation into the Gwangju Uprising of 1980. It also wants answers about South Korean generals who were trained by U.S. Special Forces and fought with the United States during its counterinsurgency war in South Vietnam. Washington has not responded - yet.

Monday, 15 May

23:59

Radio Free Asia: A US Propaganda Organ "IndyWatch Feed Nsw"

Radio Free Asia: A US Propaganda Organ

On April 26, Mary Zhao, a writer for Radio Free Asia, wrote a bizarre piece attacking China for not providing transgender girls with necessary medicines, exposing once again the absurd lengths to which the US propagandists will go to undermine a nation it has targeted. The same day, they posted a cartoon of French President Macron portrayed as a chicken for daring to state that Europe must reduce its strategic dependency on the U.S. to avoid getting caught up in crises that are not ours and for China commenting positively to what he stated. On the same front page, they posted false stories about North Korea, Myanmar and Vietnam.

So, as we celebrate International Press Freedom Day on May 3, what is Radio Free Asia?   The answer-it is an arm of the US propaganda forces arrayed against the peoples of Asia to try to maintain US hegemony over them by manipulating their minds, their thoughts, their perception and their understanding of the world around them.

RFA tries to mask its role as a propaganda organ by attempting to appear objective. One of the devices they use is a Fact Check page, where its editors ask themselves questions and provide their own answers. For instance, they ask if the waters between Taiwan and the mainland of China are international waters. The answer they give is, of course, yes, and so US naval patrols through the Taiwan Straight are, according to them, legal under international law.

But of course, they arrive at this answer by regarding Taiwan as a separate country and not part of China when in fact Taiwan is part of China and so the waters between the mainland and Taiwan are all Chinese territorial waters just as Canadas waters in its archipelagos are considered internal waters by Canada. There are other examples of their facts clashing with reality, but let...

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