Some journalists may have heard of this, I heard about it in tafe, and I'm fairly sure I'm a victim. I got into politics last year, I took the left wing approach thinking there must be more humane ways of dealing with problems, that there's so much inequality and I didn't think inhumanity warranted a inhumane response. Of course, seeing the majority of Australians voted for Howard and lack apathy I would have a fair share of opposition. Most of the time I let this go, it's expected, but a lot of the time it gets to me, I have arguments with my racist father who believes Muslims come here to convert Australians and most of them are terrorists. A lot of people have this unfair perception. These arguments can sometimes get heated, so I try to avoid them, but admittedly I have an opinion on everything and if I don't agree I can't hold back. I can half blame the media for this, being that the majority of news chosen to be broadcast is negative. I bet there are so many good news stories itching to be told and they're not because the news broadcaster wants to hook the viewers, making them feel as if they have to watch.
The recent events in Macquarie Fields where the police caused the death of two men was disgusting. Just so the cops could look high and mighty, serving justice at a price way to high. The arguments, 'we can't let them get away with it,' and 'it's they're own fault' just don't cut it for me, I never knew stealing a car warranted the death penalty. If the cops didn't give chase in a narrow street the kids would be alive, they're wouldn't have been the outburst of anger at the cops. What if there was someone else on the road, chases as a general rule should be avoided and used as a last resort, too much wrong can happen. The media coverage has been unfair, they seem to ignore police brutality, quote police injuries and forget the people. It's strange how cops seem to turn up in battalions at an anti-war protest and are never there when you need them. They're always there picking up people on trains without a ticket or always monitoring traffic, and so often I have heard of a horrendous crime where it takes the police an age to get to the scene.
Yes, I ranted again, yes I am solidly wound up in the bitter and twisted syndrome and stuffed if I know how to fix it because I can't help giving a shit.
Tuesday, March 01, 2005
Hide and Seek
Emily is one creepy little girl
I had wanted to see this from the first time I saw the trailer, that doesn't explain much as trailers have the trend to deceive and disappoint, and horror movies in particular. I am one who has never seen a movie where I was truly scared. But a move can be scary or something like that without making you scared as you would think. Hide and Seek really took a step up from the duds that have come about, it really kept you edgy, had enough suprises to keep you awake, and a story line that was well thought out with a barrage of twists and turns to keep you thinking. Robert De Niro is always great, not on of his greatest by far, but a good performance. The girl who played Emily was really great, she really had the look about her. She has these really big eyes and this straight face that scares you. The twist at the end kind of made me scratch my head, but overall I was impressed. But if you look back through the movies I have told you about, I'm usually impressed. Some crap movies do include, the Blair Witch Project as my number one dud.
Monday, February 28, 2005
Current Nominations for the sexiest blogger award
This post has been moved to an external page, keep the nominations coming, I will announce the starting of voting shortly.
Sexiest Blogger Award (opens in new window)
Sexiest Blogger Award (opens in new window)
Sunday, February 27, 2005
Novel Update: First Draft - Chapter Seven
Word Count: 12,386
I did some more writing this afternoon and during the early evening. Like I said in my previous post I knew what I was going to write so it just flowed from the beginning. I was really happy about that, not to stare at a blank screen with a blank mind, but this time, not to stare at a blank page with a blank mind. There was one difference I think that contributed to a nice little flow of words today, the environment. I thought a change of scenery would unlock something and it did. I went into my room, closed the door and blared some Marilyn Manson for the mood, and I wrote in my notebook. It was strange writing by hand again, I hadn’t really done it since my exams last year, and it hurt. I had to stop every so often to shake my hand, trying to stop some of the stiffness in my hand. I wrote about half of what I wrote today on paper, I had dinner and typed it up on the document and just kept writing. In this part of the story my main character was trying to understand what was going on with my other main character, who is psychotic and born in another time. He kind of speaks differently, in a jerky and rambling fashion. Most of the time that would be bad, but the nature of this character allows me to surpass boundaries and create my own. This can have a downside, as I am unknown writer publisher’s are less likely to gamble on me if I break limits. But things can be fixed with the re-writes. I have taken a break, and might get back to it later tonight.
I did some more writing this afternoon and during the early evening. Like I said in my previous post I knew what I was going to write so it just flowed from the beginning. I was really happy about that, not to stare at a blank screen with a blank mind, but this time, not to stare at a blank page with a blank mind. There was one difference I think that contributed to a nice little flow of words today, the environment. I thought a change of scenery would unlock something and it did. I went into my room, closed the door and blared some Marilyn Manson for the mood, and I wrote in my notebook. It was strange writing by hand again, I hadn’t really done it since my exams last year, and it hurt. I had to stop every so often to shake my hand, trying to stop some of the stiffness in my hand. I wrote about half of what I wrote today on paper, I had dinner and typed it up on the document and just kept writing. In this part of the story my main character was trying to understand what was going on with my other main character, who is psychotic and born in another time. He kind of speaks differently, in a jerky and rambling fashion. Most of the time that would be bad, but the nature of this character allows me to surpass boundaries and create my own. This can have a downside, as I am unknown writer publisher’s are less likely to gamble on me if I break limits. But things can be fixed with the re-writes. I have taken a break, and might get back to it later tonight.
Novel Update: First draft - Chapter six
Word Count: 11,105
Yesterday Afternoon, with no net connection I sat down to write. I wrote 500 words, and although that doesn't seem much it's better than usual. I finished the chapter, which again was about 1000 words, 1,082 to be exact. The chapter is ok, and will be better with editing, as will the whole novel, I'm slowly revealing more about the character and trying to set trends of behavior, I read somewhere about body language with character's, like in terms of little mannerisms that add depth. The most significant thing is that I know what to write for the next chapter, maybe this is a sign that my writer's constipation has found some fibre.
Yesterday Afternoon, with no net connection I sat down to write. I wrote 500 words, and although that doesn't seem much it's better than usual. I finished the chapter, which again was about 1000 words, 1,082 to be exact. The chapter is ok, and will be better with editing, as will the whole novel, I'm slowly revealing more about the character and trying to set trends of behavior, I read somewhere about body language with character's, like in terms of little mannerisms that add depth. The most significant thing is that I know what to write for the next chapter, maybe this is a sign that my writer's constipation has found some fibre.
Thursday, February 24, 2005
Sexiest Blogger Award
I've bowed to pressure from a few in the blogospere and am now hosting the sexiest blogger award. Yes me, doesn't make sense, I know tuff shit. If you have a blog and think your pretty fine looking nominate yourself even or nominate another sexy blogger. No real rules just you gotta look good and have a blog, easy. There will seperate winners for male and female
To enter leave a comment with your name, blog url and a link to a picture of you, or the corresponding info of another foxy blogger
To enter leave a comment with your name, blog url and a link to a picture of you, or the corresponding info of another foxy blogger
Conspiracy theory or not?
Revisited - The Real Reasons for the Upcoming War in Iraq: A Macroeconomic and Geostrategic Analysis of the Unspoken Truth, by William Clark, updated: Jan 2004
I found this via a blog surfing through blogexplosion called "Powers not delegated" The article is suggesting that the real reason for the Iraq war was to control the geopolitical climite of the middle-east because it was central to the oil industry. Bush needed to do this because OPEC was shifting towards trading oil via the Euro and not the US dollar. This could have the effect that was seen in Germany after the war. Mega inflastion. I don't know how accurate this theory is, but seeing Bush is a greedy and rich bastard it wouldn't suprise me.
I found this via a blog surfing through blogexplosion called "Powers not delegated" The article is suggesting that the real reason for the Iraq war was to control the geopolitical climite of the middle-east because it was central to the oil industry. Bush needed to do this because OPEC was shifting towards trading oil via the Euro and not the US dollar. This could have the effect that was seen in Germany after the war. Mega inflastion. I don't know how accurate this theory is, but seeing Bush is a greedy and rich bastard it wouldn't suprise me.
A question
Yes I have a question for everyone who reads, or is here from blogexplosion on a 30 second crusade for half a credit. This might only apply to lefties but it's not a politics question. I am trying to figure out the source of my writer's block or writer's constipation, if you will. The story is a gory, violent, bloody, evil, sadistic, Stephen King type of novel. I have written these stories since I have been writing. I got involved in politics a while after this, and it mainly involves human rights and promoting ideas about non-violence, peace, love and all that, I'd like to call myself I real hippie. Now as you can gather my writing mind and my political mind clash, yeah it's weird I know, but I think it's my political conscience that is holding me back from writing a really good book, the idea I have is great. I think I'm trying forcefully put in a message at the end to try to trick myself that I'm not a totally twisted individual.
Now for my question, do you think it's wrong to write gory stories, especially since you fight for human rights? I'm messed up. I know
Now for my question, do you think it's wrong to write gory stories, especially since you fight for human rights? I'm messed up. I know
Wednesday, February 23, 2005
Compassion does not excist in the Liberal party
Airlines won't fly her, now woman, 104, ordered out - National - www.smh.com.au
Stuff the Liberal party having liberal values. This party is the most right-wing and uncompassionate government in a long time. A 104 year old chinese woman has been refused a visa and cannot go home because she is too frail to fly. Without a visa she is an illegal immigrant and presumably she could be held in immigration detention until she dies. She cannot get access to public health services without a visa and because of her age, her medical bills are a big problem. The family of the woman has called for some compassion.
Stuff the Liberal party having liberal values. This party is the most right-wing and uncompassionate government in a long time. A 104 year old chinese woman has been refused a visa and cannot go home because she is too frail to fly. Without a visa she is an illegal immigrant and presumably she could be held in immigration detention until she dies. She cannot get access to public health services without a visa and because of her age, her medical bills are a big problem. The family of the woman has called for some compassion.
(No title is offensive enough to that lying rodent)
PM defends backflip on troops - National - www.smh.com.au
Before the election Howard promised that he would keep interest rates low, well he stuffed that one up. He also said that he wouldn't substantially increase the number of troops, well guess what he's done that too. He has made a $300 million dollar decision to send 450 troops over there. What the hell is wrong with this guy, other than the fact he's right wing nut-case. I mean, he's commiting political suicide. I'm not complaining, people are going to be pissed off at this, like I am, but it will be the general public. We've had enough. No more lies, no more Bush ass-licking, no more violent, corrupt or dishonest actions in the name of a capitalist government that treads of the little guy.
There is going to be a huge rally at Hyde Park on Sunday March 20 at 12 noon. This will coincide with similar events all over the globe as organised by various political and anti-war groups. It's going to be big, there is atleast more than 6900 from the Herald newspoll that disagress with howards decision. Show it.
Before the election Howard promised that he would keep interest rates low, well he stuffed that one up. He also said that he wouldn't substantially increase the number of troops, well guess what he's done that too. He has made a $300 million dollar decision to send 450 troops over there. What the hell is wrong with this guy, other than the fact he's right wing nut-case. I mean, he's commiting political suicide. I'm not complaining, people are going to be pissed off at this, like I am, but it will be the general public. We've had enough. No more lies, no more Bush ass-licking, no more violent, corrupt or dishonest actions in the name of a capitalist government that treads of the little guy.
There is going to be a huge rally at Hyde Park on Sunday March 20 at 12 noon. This will coincide with similar events all over the globe as organised by various political and anti-war groups. It's going to be big, there is atleast more than 6900 from the Herald newspoll that disagress with howards decision. Show it.
Tuesday, February 22, 2005
Novel Update: First Draft - Chapter Six
Word Count: 10,585
Well I wrote about 500 words tonight, seeing I have written very little lately this is a start. It's late, I've been waiting for the caffeine to wear off (another bad habit.) The thing that got me out of this writer's block was a bit of a flashback, with my character this is very relevent. I stopped writing as I realized I was getting choppy, a little rambly and distracted by other things. My creative moments, are rare at the moment and only last for a short while. So it's best for me to use them in a hurry. Get things down when they're there. No one is going to be home tomorrow, so it should be a good chance to try and get something down, just need to find a creative key that doesn't expire in a hurry. Funny how I can write endlessly here and not for my novel, maybe it's my inner critic.
Well I wrote about 500 words tonight, seeing I have written very little lately this is a start. It's late, I've been waiting for the caffeine to wear off (another bad habit.) The thing that got me out of this writer's block was a bit of a flashback, with my character this is very relevent. I stopped writing as I realized I was getting choppy, a little rambly and distracted by other things. My creative moments, are rare at the moment and only last for a short while. So it's best for me to use them in a hurry. Get things down when they're there. No one is going to be home tomorrow, so it should be a good chance to try and get something down, just need to find a creative key that doesn't expire in a hurry. Funny how I can write endlessly here and not for my novel, maybe it's my inner critic.
Monday, February 21, 2005
Need to change my lifestyle
I'm disgusted with myself really. My weekdays consist of sitting here, procrastinating about writing, mediocre job hunting and plain being lazy. I can't find a job, (I could try harder) so without Tafe on a monday night, and sometimes Socialist Alternative of a tuesday night I'm at home doing basically nothing. I think finding a job would lift me up a bit, and maybe speed up my writing progress. The Scribe has challenged her readers to write for at least an hour a day. I don't do that, and I should if I'm going to call myself a writer. So I have accepted her challenge, and I will try. So if you guys have a job for me, please please, help me out here.
Sunday, February 20, 2005
Stephen King's Dead Zone
I borrowed this movie from the local library because it had something to do with psychic ability and I thought it could help inspire me for my novel, well I did solve my writer’s block but that’s a different story. The movie is an adaptation from the Novel by no other than Stephen King. It’s about a guy who has an accident and falls into a five year coma, when he wakes he finds he has an amazing ability to see things from the past, present and future. The movie is great, especially at the end, but I won’t give it away. Charlie Sheen plays a chilling senate candidate that almost resembles George W. Well worth a look.
Tuesday, February 15, 2005
Novel Update: First Draft - Chapter Five (10,000 word mark)
Word Count: 10,013
Well I've passed the 10,000 word mark and into 5 figures. That is somewhat pleasing. I think I've finished chapter five unless I get a sudden burst of inspiration to add more. But in my current creative state it looks unlikely. I’m lacking inspiration, and the words still aren't flowing. This chapter was only 836 words, is that too short considering two chapter ago I wrote 3,000 plus. Most chapters have been around the thousand word mark except for the prologue and Chapter three which were reasonably long. I think that's ok, as they are key chapters. My Ukranian character has started speaking English, which is releaving, the moments before when he spoke was in Ukranian and it was difficult to convey what he was saying whilst also allowing my other character to understand also.
Now two problems: Is the thousand word chapters ok? And How do I revive some of my creative inspiration so the words can start flowing?
Well I've passed the 10,000 word mark and into 5 figures. That is somewhat pleasing. I think I've finished chapter five unless I get a sudden burst of inspiration to add more. But in my current creative state it looks unlikely. I’m lacking inspiration, and the words still aren't flowing. This chapter was only 836 words, is that too short considering two chapter ago I wrote 3,000 plus. Most chapters have been around the thousand word mark except for the prologue and Chapter three which were reasonably long. I think that's ok, as they are key chapters. My Ukranian character has started speaking English, which is releaving, the moments before when he spoke was in Ukranian and it was difficult to convey what he was saying whilst also allowing my other character to understand also.
Now two problems: Is the thousand word chapters ok? And How do I revive some of my creative inspiration so the words can start flowing?
Detention causes severe psychological damage
Psychiatrist seeks check on detainees - Immigration - www.theage.com.au
A study has found that immigrants locked in immigration detention are twice as likely to suffer symptoms of mental illness including severe anxiety, depression and a risk of suicide. This follows the detention of an Australian mistaken to be an illegal immigrant. She had suffered schizophrenia before hand and her 10 month detention aggravated her illness, especially since she was locked in isolation for 18 hours a day. Refugee Advocates are calling for a full, independent and public inquiry into mental illness in Immigration detention. I think it is appalling that the treatment of Cornelia Rau had changed so dramatically between when she was thought to be an illegal immigrant and when she was discovered to be Australian.
A study has found that immigrants locked in immigration detention are twice as likely to suffer symptoms of mental illness including severe anxiety, depression and a risk of suicide. This follows the detention of an Australian mistaken to be an illegal immigrant. She had suffered schizophrenia before hand and her 10 month detention aggravated her illness, especially since she was locked in isolation for 18 hours a day. Refugee Advocates are calling for a full, independent and public inquiry into mental illness in Immigration detention. I think it is appalling that the treatment of Cornelia Rau had changed so dramatically between when she was thought to be an illegal immigrant and when she was discovered to be Australian.
Monday, February 14, 2005
Habib left with severe psychological scars and an unfair stigma of guilt
I'm no terrorist, but I won't say why I was there - National - www.smh.com.au
Habib may have been tortured: Downer - Anti-Terror Watch - www.smh.com.au
Former Guantanamo Bay detainee Mamdouh Habib appeared on Sixty Minutes last night to tell the world of his torture at the hands of the American government. Sadly the news following the interview has all been hysteria towards whether or not he's a terrorist despite being released because there was no evidence against him. Torture included shock treatment, beating, drugging, and even telling him that they had killed his family. Today the majority of coverage focused on his refusal to verify his intentions when he was in Afghanistan. They claimed that he is obviously guilty because he didn't say anything, but anyone who knows anything about the law would know that doing so would adversely affect his court case which aims to re-claim his passport and clear his name.
Habib may have been tortured: Downer - Anti-Terror Watch - www.smh.com.au
Former Guantanamo Bay detainee Mamdouh Habib appeared on Sixty Minutes last night to tell the world of his torture at the hands of the American government. Sadly the news following the interview has all been hysteria towards whether or not he's a terrorist despite being released because there was no evidence against him. Torture included shock treatment, beating, drugging, and even telling him that they had killed his family. Today the majority of coverage focused on his refusal to verify his intentions when he was in Afghanistan. They claimed that he is obviously guilty because he didn't say anything, but anyone who knows anything about the law would know that doing so would adversely affect his court case which aims to re-claim his passport and clear his name.
Sunday, February 13, 2005
Ben picks up Bronze.
Ben picks up a bronze medal
This happened a few weeks ago, but I just got this pic of my camera now. My friend Benjamin Harris picked up a bronze medal at the Youth Olympics at Olympic Park Sydney. He placed in the bronze medal position for syncronised Trampolining. He is ranked very high in Australia for double mini tramp.
Oh and he is turning 18 tomorrow with two other of my friends that are turning 18 this week.
Jumbled priorities at the White House
Bush rejects Korean call for two-way nuclear talks - World - www.smh.com.au
This is a very confusing situation. North Korea has announced publicly that they have Nuclear Weapons. America is reluctant to hold bi-lateral talks. The North Korean leader is clearly nuts and every piece of diplomacy must be attempted before there is a dire situation. But what puzzles me more is the fact that they are arguing intervention in Iran when there is no solid evidence. Let me get this strait, North Korea, officially nuclear and the US avoid talks, and Australia calls it a bluff. Iran, no solid evidence and the US are pushing hard to intervene. Is he really that stupid? Hmm, I think it's something to do with oil.
This is a very confusing situation. North Korea has announced publicly that they have Nuclear Weapons. America is reluctant to hold bi-lateral talks. The North Korean leader is clearly nuts and every piece of diplomacy must be attempted before there is a dire situation. But what puzzles me more is the fact that they are arguing intervention in Iran when there is no solid evidence. Let me get this strait, North Korea, officially nuclear and the US avoid talks, and Australia calls it a bluff. Iran, no solid evidence and the US are pushing hard to intervene. Is he really that stupid? Hmm, I think it's something to do with oil.
Friday, February 11, 2005
Happy Birthday Samantha!
This is just a note to say Happy Birthday to my sister Samantha. She turned 10 today. She probably wont read this unless I show it to her, if she sees it she will think she's famous.
Also, I changed the middle picture of my header to one from Radio 2UE (notice the Microphone), the first one received some comments about it's appropriateness for a political blog and it's un-flattering representation.
Also, I changed the middle picture of my header to one from Radio 2UE (notice the Microphone), the first one received some comments about it's appropriateness for a political blog and it's un-flattering representation.
Thursday, February 10, 2005
Message from the city
Hi, I'm writing thois message from a computer cafe in the middle of Sydney. I went to a rally outside the department of immigration. We were calling for a full and independent inquiry into the detention regime. It was dissapointing that around only 50 people turned up. I'm still here because I'm doing a promotional stall for Socialist Alternative at 5pm, at Town Hall.
Hope you guys like the new design, the header pics will change later on, when I get the best pics.
Hope you guys like the new design, the header pics will change later on, when I get the best pics.
Wednesday, February 09, 2005
Warning: Things are not as they seem
Just a note to say that things around here wont be as normal for about 6 hours or so, I'm going to be in the middle of huge re-design, the first stage will be a blank template then I will add things as I go. Hi BE users, just pop back and things will look snazy and new.
Novel Update: First draft - Chapter Five
Word count: 9,517
Haven't had one of these in a bit. I don't think I even did one for chapter four. Well I finished chapter four, it was a short chapter, but very eventful. I'm onto chapter five now, and I'm a little stuck, it's moving too slowly for my liking. I'm lacking inspiration, you know, like a creative energy. Music can sometimes give it to me, or I had a real big boost a creative energy one time when I saw an interview with Daniel Johns and Andrew Denton's show 'Enough Rope.' He's not a writer but he is still a creative genius. If you listen to Silverchair album 'Diorama' you'll know why. Daniel was the front man for Silverchair till they broke up, and now he's teamed up with Paul Mac to form the Dissociatives. They played that night and I was impressed. Now if only I had a tape of that interview, I'd be back in the right mindset. Might get some rest and see if I've got it in the morning.
Haven't had one of these in a bit. I don't think I even did one for chapter four. Well I finished chapter four, it was a short chapter, but very eventful. I'm onto chapter five now, and I'm a little stuck, it's moving too slowly for my liking. I'm lacking inspiration, you know, like a creative energy. Music can sometimes give it to me, or I had a real big boost a creative energy one time when I saw an interview with Daniel Johns and Andrew Denton's show 'Enough Rope.' He's not a writer but he is still a creative genius. If you listen to Silverchair album 'Diorama' you'll know why. Daniel was the front man for Silverchair till they broke up, and now he's teamed up with Paul Mac to form the Dissociatives. They played that night and I was impressed. Now if only I had a tape of that interview, I'd be back in the right mindset. Might get some rest and see if I've got it in the morning.
Tuesday, February 08, 2005
Some changes
I have made some changes to my sidebar, no shoutbox, changed a few of the fonts and my reading list is syndicated with Amazon.com, more for the convenience of the instant html code rather than the money.
I hope to soon create my own template, start off with a basic one, add my own fancy sidebar headers and a wicked header. I want to minimise my sidebar and make it neat and professional, so expect some changes around here in the coming month or two, I have alot of spare time on my hands due to the fact I'm only writing and doing tafe four hours a week until I get a job, which is becoming frustrating, because I can't find one.
I hope to soon create my own template, start off with a basic one, add my own fancy sidebar headers and a wicked header. I want to minimise my sidebar and make it neat and professional, so expect some changes around here in the coming month or two, I have alot of spare time on my hands due to the fact I'm only writing and doing tafe four hours a week until I get a job, which is becoming frustrating, because I can't find one.
Rau is hopefully the catalyst for more media coverage on a shocking policy
'It's torture, it's sheer torture' - Immigration - www.smh.com.au
Following the Cornelia Rau case, more reports of human right's abuses in Baxter Detention centre. Hassan, an Algerian man, fled amid torture in his home country. He was locked in Baxter because his paper's weren't in order.
"When they came to check out what was happening they came in force, that is the immigration officials, the guards there, and they made him strip," Ms Milne told ABC radio.
"They examined him and there were two females there, one was a psychologist, another one was an immigration officer.
"And the humiliation of having to bend over and be internally examined by people who are watching you as well as being on a video camera, he just felt was the greatest humiliation in his whole life."
Following the Cornelia Rau case, more reports of human right's abuses in Baxter Detention centre. Hassan, an Algerian man, fled amid torture in his home country. He was locked in Baxter because his paper's weren't in order.
"When they came to check out what was happening they came in force, that is the immigration officials, the guards there, and they made him strip," Ms Milne told ABC radio.
"They examined him and there were two females there, one was a psychologist, another one was an immigration officer.
"And the humiliation of having to bend over and be internally examined by people who are watching you as well as being on a video camera, he just felt was the greatest humiliation in his whole life."
Monday, February 07, 2005
First Day of Tafe
I started tafe tonight, I wasn't looking forward to it. I wanted to go to uni, but instead I'm stuck doing a four hour per week course at tafe for 18 months. Then maybe I can go to uni. The course isn't bad, we were there from 6 to 9, and the teacher is a bit of lefty, so we should get on fine. I would just rather be doing something full-time. I'm waiting on a traineeship at Bankstown Council for Journalism, that would be better. For now, I'm going to spend my vast amounts of free-time looking for jobs, writing my novel, and doing political stuff.
She is Australian so now we care!
My sister lost her mind, and Australia lost its heart - National - www.smh.com.au
Chris Rau, the sister of Cornelia Rau, or also known as 'Anna' has spoken out about incarceration of her sister at Baxter Detention Centre. She says:
Which brings us to the shameful double standard Cornelia's case illustrates. While she was an unnamed illegal immigrant, the only treatment she received for mental illness was longer periods in lock-up as punishment for bad behavior. From the information coming out of Baxter, the lock-ups led to a worsening of her condition and worse behavior.
Yet, magic! As soon as she became an Australian resident she was whisked away to a teaching hospital, seen by consultant psychiatrists and medicated. During which leg of her flight from Baxter to Adelaide did she suddenly gain the basic human right to medical treatment?
Over the years we have heard of immigration detainees being denied access to psychiatric care, some with horrific mental illnesses and suicidal tendencies. How many cases like Cornelia's will it take until they receive the care they deserve, or more importantly, are taken out of conditions which in themselves lead to mental illnesses?
This asks a lot of questions, ones the government seems to try to evade. They won't issue an apology and defend their actions saying she spoke German so she must be German. Is that the stupidest thing anyone could say let alone someone running our country. They also said that they're own psychological analysis found that she was mentally ill, but other detainees and advocates saw her sitting in the dirt, eating it and saying how she wanted to die. It is a disgrace to be Australian when the only way we can publicize the atrocities of our government is by having one of our own locked up.
Chris Rau, the sister of Cornelia Rau, or also known as 'Anna' has spoken out about incarceration of her sister at Baxter Detention Centre. She says:
Which brings us to the shameful double standard Cornelia's case illustrates. While she was an unnamed illegal immigrant, the only treatment she received for mental illness was longer periods in lock-up as punishment for bad behavior. From the information coming out of Baxter, the lock-ups led to a worsening of her condition and worse behavior.
Yet, magic! As soon as she became an Australian resident she was whisked away to a teaching hospital, seen by consultant psychiatrists and medicated. During which leg of her flight from Baxter to Adelaide did she suddenly gain the basic human right to medical treatment?
Over the years we have heard of immigration detainees being denied access to psychiatric care, some with horrific mental illnesses and suicidal tendencies. How many cases like Cornelia's will it take until they receive the care they deserve, or more importantly, are taken out of conditions which in themselves lead to mental illnesses?
This asks a lot of questions, ones the government seems to try to evade. They won't issue an apology and defend their actions saying she spoke German so she must be German. Is that the stupidest thing anyone could say let alone someone running our country. They also said that they're own psychological analysis found that she was mentally ill, but other detainees and advocates saw her sitting in the dirt, eating it and saying how she wanted to die. It is a disgrace to be Australian when the only way we can publicize the atrocities of our government is by having one of our own locked up.
The stupidity of our government
US Court Ruling Makes Farce of Ruddock Bill
Our government is so stupid it backs a US court when the US finds it's illegal. Yes, Ruddock passed a bill that legitimised any Australians charged through the military commission at Guantanomo Bay, but a US case found that the commission breaches they're constitution. Are we really that stupid. It just shows that we do anything to suck up to these profit hungry Americans, when will we think for ourselves. Maybe after there's a socialist revolution. Wake up people.
Our government is so stupid it backs a US court when the US finds it's illegal. Yes, Ruddock passed a bill that legitimised any Australians charged through the military commission at Guantanomo Bay, but a US case found that the commission breaches they're constitution. Are we really that stupid. It just shows that we do anything to suck up to these profit hungry Americans, when will we think for ourselves. Maybe after there's a socialist revolution. Wake up people.
A need to be green
Greenpeace Forests
I have always been a greenie at heart. From a young age I have always wanted to be involved in environmental projects, even collecting littered cans for recycling. I have kind of lost touch as of late, but I had the urge tonight to visit the greenpeace homepage. I browsed around, and came across a branch site of theirs about the logging of ancient forests in Papua New Guinea and other pacific island nations. It really enlightens you to the greed of big name companies. I am going to try and buy green products mostly.
I have always been a greenie at heart. From a young age I have always wanted to be involved in environmental projects, even collecting littered cans for recycling. I have kind of lost touch as of late, but I had the urge tonight to visit the greenpeace homepage. I browsed around, and came across a branch site of theirs about the logging of ancient forests in Papua New Guinea and other pacific island nations. It really enlightens you to the greed of big name companies. I am going to try and buy green products mostly.
Sunday, February 06, 2005
Change of scenery
I'm starting to get a little irritated by this template, I have used it since my blog started last July, because it looked very writer-esque. I think I might change, but I will wait until blogexplosion announce they're winner for a free re-design who knows I might win. Hi to all BE users. Stop and look around, and please if you can, leave a comment.
also I think my PBA blogroll is making my blog load slowly, if my blog is loading for you, tell us.
also I think my PBA blogroll is making my blog load slowly, if my blog is loading for you, tell us.
Saturday, February 05, 2005
Ladder 49
I saw a movie last night, Ladder 49. My friend picked and I didn't think I'd like it, I thought it'd be a 'macho-macho- firefighter type movie, but it wasn't what I expected. By the end me and my tow mates either side of me were wiping there eyes. It was an incredibly moving movie. I don't like to give too much away, but it was all about a firefighters rise from a rookie to a brave firefighter, and it told of the dangers associated with the job. It made you look up to people who risk their own lives everyday to save others. I'm not talking about the army, but real heroes, people who save lives instead of take them.
'Anna' is Australian
Solved: mystery of detainee 'Anna' - National - www.theage.com.au
Me and other refugee advocates have been trying to publicize the tragedy of Anna. The mentally ill girl that has been locked up in isolation within immigration detention for 18 hours a day. Well we have now found out that she is fact Australian. She was originally thought to be German because she was found to be babbling in German. In fact she came to Australia when she was one. She is schizophrenia and has a fear of imprisonment. This is the first time a immigration story has made headlines in a while. One difference, the girl is Australian, so all of a sudden everybody cares that an Aussie was locked up in a hell hole. But everyone is just going to forgot the 80+ children in there. This really hightlights this countries xenophobic attitudes.
Me and other refugee advocates have been trying to publicize the tragedy of Anna. The mentally ill girl that has been locked up in isolation within immigration detention for 18 hours a day. Well we have now found out that she is fact Australian. She was originally thought to be German because she was found to be babbling in German. In fact she came to Australia when she was one. She is schizophrenia and has a fear of imprisonment. This is the first time a immigration story has made headlines in a while. One difference, the girl is Australian, so all of a sudden everybody cares that an Aussie was locked up in a hell hole. But everyone is just going to forgot the 80+ children in there. This really hightlights this countries xenophobic attitudes.
Friday, February 04, 2005
As I've said before, the army has a culture problem the reflects on the rest of the world
Shooting people? Yes sir, it's a hell of a hoot - World - www.smh.com.au
An American Lieutenant has said the shooting people in Iraq "it's a hell of a hoot". This is not the first time I've reported on such instances. It is this kind of attitude that leads to a kind of culture that says that the solution to the world's conflicts is to blow your enemies up. Sure they think killing lots of terrorists will end up killing terrorism. What would you say if they said the same thing. Killing all the imperialists will rid imperialism. I can see all you right-wing loonies standing up right now and saying that you will never stop fighting, that if they killed more of you, they you'd get real pissed and there'd be more fighting. Duh, that's what happening. You kill one, you piss off the whole of the Arab world and now there is this culture of conflict between the two sides of the world. No leader is looking to resolve problems, just blow people up that are different on both sides of the debate.
An American Lieutenant has said the shooting people in Iraq "it's a hell of a hoot". This is not the first time I've reported on such instances. It is this kind of attitude that leads to a kind of culture that says that the solution to the world's conflicts is to blow your enemies up. Sure they think killing lots of terrorists will end up killing terrorism. What would you say if they said the same thing. Killing all the imperialists will rid imperialism. I can see all you right-wing loonies standing up right now and saying that you will never stop fighting, that if they killed more of you, they you'd get real pissed and there'd be more fighting. Duh, that's what happening. You kill one, you piss off the whole of the Arab world and now there is this culture of conflict between the two sides of the world. No leader is looking to resolve problems, just blow people up that are different on both sides of the debate.
Tuesday, February 01, 2005
Iraqi election
There has been a lot of talk about the election, most of it unfortunately coming from right-wing nut jobs. For those who think the election is a true exercise of democracy, you really aren't that smart are you. If people would think for themselves rather than listen to biased, pro-government media you would clearly see that you can't have a free and fair election when you have a foreign occupier. America has a history of bodging democracy when in foreign occupation. We only need to look back to Vietnam where the US boycotted the vote for fear of communist victory. How can an election be fair when there are so many candidates, and most of them unknown clearly to the voters. Only around 50% voted, is that fair? Also you had to go through American scrutineering to run for government! That is not democracy.
Why?
For whom the bell tolls - Immigration - www.theage.com.au
Can I ask the Australian government one question? What will you achieve by deporting this man? He will be killed for fighting for democracy. You and Bush try to ensure democracy in Iraq but when a man flees Iran for fear of his life. You lock him up.
"Iranian security caught me," he says. "I was put in a small cell, one metre by two metres. I cannot see outside. The window is very high. Always there is a strong light shining outside. I had no visitors. At night I hear guns. Many people were executed in Evin prison. I hear people screaming. I do not want to think about this time."
Don't tell me he came here illegally. What everone fails to see is, under international law you have the right to apply for Asylum and whether you came here legally or not has nothing to do with it. This man is an inspiration. He needs our help, support and protection. Not years of unjust incarceration only to be sent back and most likely killed in the name of Democracy.
Can I ask the Australian government one question? What will you achieve by deporting this man? He will be killed for fighting for democracy. You and Bush try to ensure democracy in Iraq but when a man flees Iran for fear of his life. You lock him up.
"Iranian security caught me," he says. "I was put in a small cell, one metre by two metres. I cannot see outside. The window is very high. Always there is a strong light shining outside. I had no visitors. At night I hear guns. Many people were executed in Evin prison. I hear people screaming. I do not want to think about this time."
Don't tell me he came here illegally. What everone fails to see is, under international law you have the right to apply for Asylum and whether you came here legally or not has nothing to do with it. This man is an inspiration. He needs our help, support and protection. Not years of unjust incarceration only to be sent back and most likely killed in the name of Democracy.
Monday, January 31, 2005
Novel Update: First Draft - Chapter Three
Word count: 8,454
Well despite the glare I finished chapter three over last night and this afternoon. I'm really getting into the meat of the story. But I find that I'm thickening the plot and adding some more problems that will make the story more difficult to move forward in a hurry. I think that's a good thing. I know alot of people have told me that it is great for a novel to have a series of disasters throughout, and each one should make it seem less likely that your character will achieve a favourable outome. Well I'm kind of doing that, so things look good, I just have to keep penning away.
P.S. Dear BE visitors, welcome and take time to read. I've just saved up a few mystery credits so there should be a few of you. This place is for writers, and those who care about human right's and humanity.
Well despite the glare I finished chapter three over last night and this afternoon. I'm really getting into the meat of the story. But I find that I'm thickening the plot and adding some more problems that will make the story more difficult to move forward in a hurry. I think that's a good thing. I know alot of people have told me that it is great for a novel to have a series of disasters throughout, and each one should make it seem less likely that your character will achieve a favourable outome. Well I'm kind of doing that, so things look good, I just have to keep penning away.
P.S. Dear BE visitors, welcome and take time to read. I've just saved up a few mystery credits so there should be a few of you. This place is for writers, and those who care about human right's and humanity.
Sunday, January 30, 2005
Glare
I was just about to start writing more of my novel tonight, but staring at this thing for an extended period of time might seem impossible. My monitor has gone funny and is very glary, I'll try to fix it, but the last monitor that did this keeled over a little while after.
Thursday, January 27, 2005
Help Anna
From ChilOut:
We are a nation of travellers. This could befall any of our children; travelling in a strange land, they could suffer a psychotic episode, breach their visa conditions and let us pray they would receive more sympathetic and humane treatment than we are meting out to Anna, No.BX8311, presently incarcerated in a RED ONE isolation cell in Baxter. Under our existing flawed law, unless the person detained, signs a form giving permission for a lawyer to act on their behalf, NO-ONE can help. There is no mechanism to assist someone in detention who is not mentally capable of acting in their own best interests. Anna, a young German - speaking girl, has been locked up in Baxter since the 29th November. She is locked in an isolation cell for 18 hours per day. She is allowed out into the open air for 6 hours per day. Such is her terror of being put back into this cell that it takes 6 guards in full riot gear to manhandle her back into the room and close the heavy door. We have reports from witnesses thatthe guards are enjoying this aspect of Anna's behaviour. (Two children are presently detained in Baxter – is this the sort of thing we should allow impressionable young minds to be exposed to?) Detainees have repeatedly expressed concern about this young girl. They believe that she is mentally ill. Her unpredictable and bizarre behaviour, lack of communication and distress continue to worry fellow detainees. She exhibits psychotic symptoms, screaming and talking to herself at times and screams in terror often for long periods especially when locked in the cell. Visitors who have attempted to engage with her say that she does not make eye contact and avoids interaction. Detainees have attempted to get her trust but have been unable to get her to see anyone.
Anna has refused to sign a form requesting legal help so no-one is allowed to assist or assess her. We are worried that she may not be mentally competent to act in her best interests. However under the Migration Act no one is allowed to act on her behalf unless she requests this in writing. Now the German consulate say that they do not believe that she is a German citizen. They do not know who she is and have been unable to get information on her from police sources in Germany but say that she is not German! This leaves her to the fate of DIMIA and GSL. Anna is alone in Baxter. She is clearly mentally ill and needs care not incarceration and brute physical force. She is not going to recover by being locked up in an isolation cell for 18 hours a day. DIMIA may be using this method to attempt to get information from her. They say that they are focussed on finding out who she is. We would like to see DIMIA focus on providing her with the psychiatric care which she so obviously needs and show some concern for her terror and distress. All attempts to allow independent medical or psychiatric care, or asking the minister’s office to intervene have failed after 7 weeks of constant calls.
Please email/ fax your local member (ChilOut's Page for Elected Representatives and don’t forget your State’s Senators – of every persuasion) asking that Anna be immediately transferred to a psychiatric hospital and given the help she needs. How can a compassionate country treat any human being like this? This is another example of the need to reform the Migration Act. This degree of human suffering cannot be what its original drafters intended.
Novel Update: Still ticking
Not much has happened, I write a sentence or two here and there. Went out the city to celebrate Australia Day with friends today, I mean yesterday, crap look at the time. I've been busy looking for jobs and worrying about Uni/Tafe, plus this new and unnecessary sage with my sister. I really want to write, it's killing me, so I'll try to do some tomorrow, with no distractions, I'm avoiding any real conversation with my sister at the moment, sad isn't it. But this novel has to become my number one priority no matter how my family sees it. They seem to hate everything I do, writing, protesting, and they seem to think I don't want a job. Hello! I'm poor, my computer's crap and I'm always broke.
The intolerance continues
You may notice in my shoutbox and my comments for my previous post on intolerance were some comments by one of my sister's friends. She called my intolerant. Can you believe that, they can't accept my beliefs, I have no problem with them having their beliefs but according to them I'm intolerant. Well we'll just look this up for ourselves then. According to World Net intolerance means:
I think I am not the only one to say number 2 matches my sister and her friends fairly accurately. Now before anyone says: I don't respect their beliefs by not listening to what they have to say. Let me say this again, I have called myself a Christian for many years, gone to church, listened to countless songs and sermons, but none of it affected me, I never believed in god from the start no matter how much people tried, it's just I didn't realize it. What a mistake I may have made, because now all I get is crap. Sorry if this fight gets a bit personal, but maybe to some of you out there, there is a lesson to learn.
intolerance
n 1: impatience with annoyances; "his
intolerance of interruptions" 2: unwillingness to recognize and respect
differences in opinions or beliefs
I think I am not the only one to say number 2 matches my sister and her friends fairly accurately. Now before anyone says: I don't respect their beliefs by not listening to what they have to say. Let me say this again, I have called myself a Christian for many years, gone to church, listened to countless songs and sermons, but none of it affected me, I never believed in god from the start no matter how much people tried, it's just I didn't realize it. What a mistake I may have made, because now all I get is crap. Sorry if this fight gets a bit personal, but maybe to some of you out there, there is a lesson to learn.
Tuesday, January 25, 2005
Utterly disgusting
I don't even Bush would have the cold heart to do this. This is the most outrageous parody of all time. HOT97 have released the 'Tsunami song,' a sickening joke about the victims of the Tsunami.
Shabooty has the full story
Shabooty has the full story
Monday, January 24, 2005
Intolerance
I'm in another heated mood, not because of some politician doing evil things, but it's my evangelical Christian sister. She and even her friends are trying to convert me! I try to promote tolerance and acceptance, but my sister has a big problem with my beliefs and I have a big problem with her trying to mess with them. Now firstly her doing so, is a waste of time. I went to church from a young age and nothing ever sank in, it wasn't until a couple of years ago that I realized that, and also had the guts to proudly say I am atheist, or to a more exact term, existentialist (see 'Waiting for Godot') Now I think that it is disgusting for people to try to convert other people to their beliefs. I have no problem with other people's religious beliefs, but I have a problem when people reject mine as 'silly' and 'disappointing.'
Reading Media statements is dangerous for my mental health
www.greens.org.au - Vanstone negligent over farcical and dangerous deportations
I was on the Greens website just now and I am fuming again. This is the danger of my knowing too much, I am sorry to my family if I will be angry for the rest of the day. I recentlyy told you about the Iranian writer who is going to be deported. I now know that after he was told of this decision he took an overdose of pills and was taken to hospital. I also now know that Immigration Minister Amanda Vanstone has handed the duty of ministerial intervention into humanitarian immigration over to her Junior Minister. She doesn't even have the respect for the sensitivity of these people to do it herself. The Junior minister is apparently rejecting pleas at a rapid rate.
I was on the Greens website just now and I am fuming again. This is the danger of my knowing too much, I am sorry to my family if I will be angry for the rest of the day. I recentlyy told you about the Iranian writer who is going to be deported. I now know that after he was told of this decision he took an overdose of pills and was taken to hospital. I also now know that Immigration Minister Amanda Vanstone has handed the duty of ministerial intervention into humanitarian immigration over to her Junior Minister. She doesn't even have the respect for the sensitivity of these people to do it herself. The Junior minister is apparently rejecting pleas at a rapid rate.
This is disgraceful
Senator Bob Brown : Campaigns
I just popped over to Senator Bob Brown's website, and I was horrified at what is happening to him and a handful of conservationist groups. A native forest logging company, GUNNS, is suing them for losses related to action by protestors and political organizations. This is an attack on free speech and again the big company is looking to suck every last hope and dream from the little guy. I am going to write to the company expressing my disgust and this could very well become one of my big campaigns.
I just popped over to Senator Bob Brown's website, and I was horrified at what is happening to him and a handful of conservationist groups. A native forest logging company, GUNNS, is suing them for losses related to action by protestors and political organizations. This is an attack on free speech and again the big company is looking to suck every last hope and dream from the little guy. I am going to write to the company expressing my disgust and this could very well become one of my big campaigns.
Some thoughts
I am not feeling the best currently, a little blue or even depressed. I think the main reason is I can't find a job, you either need to be really young or really experienced. 18 is too old in McDonalds eye's to hire me, and for everywhere else I need a mountain of retail experience. This is coupled with the fact I didn't get into Uni, and if I don't get into a Bachalor of Arts at UWS, I have to do a TAFE course which goes for a year, and it's only four hours a week, which is a waste of time. oh and my mum is driving me crazy still
Sunday, January 23, 2005
Leave the Writer alone.
Rebel writer faces extradition to Iran - Immigration - www.theage.com.au
The Immigration department wants to deport Iranian writer, Ardeshir Gholipour back to Iran, where there is a very serious threat of severe consequences on his return. He was part of a group of Iranians compassing for freedom and democratic reform in Iran, and also other acts of activism against his own government would leave him in a dangerous, even life threatening situation if returned. I and a lot of other activists really wish that Amanda Vanstone can wake up from this terrorism over-hysteria like all the other right-wingers and get some fucking human compassion.
The Immigration department wants to deport Iranian writer, Ardeshir Gholipour back to Iran, where there is a very serious threat of severe consequences on his return. He was part of a group of Iranians compassing for freedom and democratic reform in Iran, and also other acts of activism against his own government would leave him in a dangerous, even life threatening situation if returned. I and a lot of other activists really wish that Amanda Vanstone can wake up from this terrorism over-hysteria like all the other right-wingers and get some fucking human compassion.
Friday, January 21, 2005
The Tragedy of Knowing the Debt Collector
The Tradedy of Knowing the Debt Collector
This is the story I have written yesterday and today, it was more of a way to oil my creative brain, as my novel has been hampered by a few writer's block dilemmas. It's a horror kind of one as usual, have a read and tell me what you think. For those of you who have read some of my other stories I apologise if it the idea of the whole story seems familiar.
This is the story I have written yesterday and today, it was more of a way to oil my creative brain, as my novel has been hampered by a few writer's block dilemmas. It's a horror kind of one as usual, have a read and tell me what you think. For those of you who have read some of my other stories I apologise if it the idea of the whole story seems familiar.
Thursday, January 20, 2005
The Pros and Cons of the Tsunami media coverage
There has been a lot of media coverage on the recent Tsunami tragedy, and the Media industry has swamped us with endless amounts of information and pleas for help. The response by the common person has been overwhelming. This tragedy has seen people open their hearts and wallets to help those in need. This is due to the extensive media coverage it has recieved. The fact that the media coverage has forced us too pay attention is one of the key reasons why we have responded the way we have. If other tragedies are given the same scale of coverage, it would be expected that people would react in a similar way. But the way people have responded is a good sign, and it shows that there is hope for humanity, and we have compassion for our fellow man. If only other causes can be seen in similar light, than there is hope for others in need of help.
One bad thing coming from the coverage is the fact that some things have been ignored. There are reports that hadn't received much coverage that a Sudanese refugee has been deported back to Sudan. It happened in the dead of night, with the man restrained and gagged. The reports only emerged on AAP, an online only news source and another refugee activist found the report in a newspaper in Israel. Also floods in Costa Rica, that has left many homeless has barely been given a mention, although it wasn't anywhere near the scale of what has happened in Asia, it is still worthy of a mention.
One bad thing coming from the coverage is the fact that some things have been ignored. There are reports that hadn't received much coverage that a Sudanese refugee has been deported back to Sudan. It happened in the dead of night, with the man restrained and gagged. The reports only emerged on AAP, an online only news source and another refugee activist found the report in a newspaper in Israel. Also floods in Costa Rica, that has left many homeless has barely been given a mention, although it wasn't anywhere near the scale of what has happened in Asia, it is still worthy of a mention.
Wednesday, January 19, 2005
My HSC in writing
My HSC
There it is in all it's glory, my actual Higher School Certificate. Just thought I'd show the world.
Tuesday, January 18, 2005
Give me a break
US troops enter Iran in hunt for WMDs: report - World - www.smh.com.au
I am sick of America playing the world's fucking mother. They've walked into Iran now trying to find Nuclear weapons. They claim that this and they're invasion of Iraq are legitimate parts of the fight on Terrorism. Is anyone stupid enough to believe that, wait, I know there is, he's still the president right. He claims he's fighting for peace, let me get this straight. Bush thinks to gain peace you must invade a country, hmm, people are really stupid. Oh, and who give the US the right to say who can and can't have weapons. I'm for nuclear disarmament, that mean I don't think ANY country should have nuclear weapons, definitely including America, seeing they're the only fucking country to have used them.
I am sick of America playing the world's fucking mother. They've walked into Iran now trying to find Nuclear weapons. They claim that this and they're invasion of Iraq are legitimate parts of the fight on Terrorism. Is anyone stupid enough to believe that, wait, I know there is, he's still the president right. He claims he's fighting for peace, let me get this straight. Bush thinks to gain peace you must invade a country, hmm, people are really stupid. Oh, and who give the US the right to say who can and can't have weapons. I'm for nuclear disarmament, that mean I don't think ANY country should have nuclear weapons, definitely including America, seeing they're the only fucking country to have used them.
Monday, January 17, 2005
Cool site I just found
I'm writing from my local library right now. I got my free year planner with the Sun-Herald yesterday and the photo was from a website called photolibrary.com. I thought I'd check it out today, and it's great, there are alot of photos on there with great quality. I'm going to add it to my favourites when I get home. I can use this gallery to randomly find images so I can use them as stimulus when writing.
Novel Update: Research
Yes! I got my phrase translation back today in Ukranian. A big thank you to Gennadiy Guskov for doing that for me. Ok, so here's the challenge for those of you who are reading, I want you to see if you can tell me what my phrase says: "Я боюся. Я п’ю кров багатцв, могутніх та пасивних. І ти також повинен мене боятися" If you can tell me what it says tell me, and you will have to satisfaction of knowing you are a multi-lingual genius.
Wednesday, January 12, 2005
I find this very difficult to grasp
Iranian Christian fears imminent deportation - Immigration - www.theage.com.au
The refugee movement is not going to shut up, because there is still a problem with their treatmentmy an immoral and inhumane government. An Iranian could be deported tonight, back to Iran where he faces the chance of being killed for converting to Christianity. The government tried to deport him once before but he caused such a disturbance that the airline refused to take him, this is thanks also to protests at the airport's. This is making the airlines vary wary of deporting Asylum seekers. Good. We will not shut up until the government changes it's policy and realizes that is wrong to lock someone up, when they are seeking our protection. Under international law, you do not need documents when applying for Asylum, because just you walking into their country and saying I am a refugee, protect me, is enough. Please these people, especially the children mean no harm. This is not about politics, the economy or anything other than human decency.
The refugee movement is not going to shut up, because there is still a problem with their treatmentmy an immoral and inhumane government. An Iranian could be deported tonight, back to Iran where he faces the chance of being killed for converting to Christianity. The government tried to deport him once before but he caused such a disturbance that the airline refused to take him, this is thanks also to protests at the airport's. This is making the airlines vary wary of deporting Asylum seekers. Good. We will not shut up until the government changes it's policy and realizes that is wrong to lock someone up, when they are seeking our protection. Under international law, you do not need documents when applying for Asylum, because just you walking into their country and saying I am a refugee, protect me, is enough. Please these people, especially the children mean no harm. This is not about politics, the economy or anything other than human decency.
Tuesday, January 11, 2005
Novel Update: First Draft - Chapter 3 and Research
Word Count: 6,603
I have solved a small problem with writer's block I have had for the past couple of days. I find talking about your story to close friends usually help in thinking of things to move the story along. I hit a block later on just before lunch though, but I didn't let it stop me. It involves getting a translation into Ukrainian, so I will wait for that, I have a rough translation, and I will keep writing. Thank you to Freelang.net, for helping me and Simon Ager from omniglot.com for directing me to the site. So now I can move on, this part is a really good bit, one of the scenes that swirled around in my head from the very beginning.
I have solved a small problem with writer's block I have had for the past couple of days. I find talking about your story to close friends usually help in thinking of things to move the story along. I hit a block later on just before lunch though, but I didn't let it stop me. It involves getting a translation into Ukrainian, so I will wait for that, I have a rough translation, and I will keep writing. Thank you to Freelang.net, for helping me and Simon Ager from omniglot.com for directing me to the site. So now I can move on, this part is a really good bit, one of the scenes that swirled around in my head from the very beginning.
Ghandi - The Movie
I just had the privelage of seeing a true classic, I didn't know it existed until I picked up the DVD at the Library this morning. Ghandi is a true inspirational figure, he shows there is hope without violence. I have been fond of his quotes such as, "An eye for an eye, makes the whole world blind," but this man even summarised in a film, changed alot for India and the views of the world. I don't think we will have the privelage to see such another man grace this earth, but we can try.
Sunday, January 09, 2005
Novel Update: Research
I've been out to parties two nights in a row, and now I can get back to business. I got a response from some one who dabbles with Speleology. Now, things have been clarified, in Australia, people who study caves and Speleology aren't Speleologists. They are Biologists, Microbiologists, Palaeontologists, Archaeologists, Geologists, Hydrologists, Physicists, Chemists, Pharmacologists, Medical specialists, etc.... He also told me Speleology is more of a non profit hobby, and not a full time professional job. This makes thing easier, I first thought I'd have to change heaps about my character, in order to make him a Speleologist, rather than a Geologist, just maybe a couple of sentences here and there to make things stick and I think I'll be fine. I know have a contact in the field so if I have any further question I can contact him.
Friday, January 07, 2005
Now I can prove it
I got my proof of age card today, the photo is stupid, but it's expected, now I can have no hassles.
I'm still waiting for a response from that speleologist, and mean while I'm suffering extreme boredom, I can't read alot of the time because silence is a precious commodity in this house.
Thursday, January 06, 2005
Novel Update: Research and Frustration
Just when I get to a good part, something ruins it. Ok, if I tell you just the smallest piece about my novel, you'll be good right. If you don't I'll hunt you down. I won't kill you because I'm a moral person. I'll just drown you with moral bitching, and I'll launch a campaign for no one to read your book. Ok, my 'caver' guy, goes in a cave, and he finds something, something big. Ok, so that's it, well this 'caver' guy used to go under the title geologist. My first two chapter's were based on him bitching how boring geology is, well I found out my caver guy is infact someone called a speleologist. Yea, never heard of it, neither have I. So basically nothing fits, except the general direction. I'll probhably have to re-write those chapters. So now I've taken the time and e-mail some speleologists to find out some stuff. Damn, this is really frustrating, I just want to write.
Wednesday, January 05, 2005
Thank you Micheal
Stars pledge millions to tsunami appeals - People - www.smh.com.au
Now I'm a bit of a revhead, and I love my Formula 1's. So I was astounded today when one of the greatest pledged $13 million (Australian) to the relief effort in Asia. That is the biggest by an Individual so far, if it wasn't scorching hot weather, I'd be wearing his jacket with pride.
Now I'm a bit of a revhead, and I love my Formula 1's. So I was astounded today when one of the greatest pledged $13 million (Australian) to the relief effort in Asia. That is the biggest by an Individual so far, if it wasn't scorching hot weather, I'd be wearing his jacket with pride.
Tuesday, January 04, 2005
No heart
Sri Lankans' asylum appeals fail - Immigration - www.theage.com.au
The Immigration Department is going to deport a group of Sri-Lanken Asylum seekers back to there devasted country after their appeal failed. The vast majority of them are tamil tigers, they are in fear of the government and therefore legitimite refugees, it's not that hard to work out. But even more disturbing is, since the Tsunami, the government has not overturned their decision, so these people will have to return to nothing.
The Immigration Department is going to deport a group of Sri-Lanken Asylum seekers back to there devasted country after their appeal failed. The vast majority of them are tamil tigers, they are in fear of the government and therefore legitimite refugees, it's not that hard to work out. But even more disturbing is, since the Tsunami, the government has not overturned their decision, so these people will have to return to nothing.
Monday, January 03, 2005
A link
HREOC Website: A Last Resort? - Summary Guide
This is a link to the Australian human right's commisions report on the effects of children in detention, it was published a while ago, but here it is for all to read. Please note that when this was presented to the government, it was cast away with distain and ignored.
This is a link to the Australian human right's commisions report on the effects of children in detention, it was published a while ago, but here it is for all to read. Please note that when this was presented to the government, it was cast away with distain and ignored.
Novel Update: First Draft - Chapter Three
Word Count: 5,819
It's been a while since I updated the blogosphere on the progress of my novel. Maybe because there hasn't been much to update on, the first and second chapter were finished in choppy doses, and so I didn't mention them much. Chapter Three however is promising, it is a scene that I can really sink my teeth into, with a bit of mystery, thriller, and a nice piece of back story that is a combination of history and fiction. It's not finished yet, I'm a bit drained, and so although my best writing is done at night, alone, minimal light, and a caffeine source, tonight's not the night. So with more than a thousand words tonight, I'll call it a night.
It's been a while since I updated the blogosphere on the progress of my novel. Maybe because there hasn't been much to update on, the first and second chapter were finished in choppy doses, and so I didn't mention them much. Chapter Three however is promising, it is a scene that I can really sink my teeth into, with a bit of mystery, thriller, and a nice piece of back story that is a combination of history and fiction. It's not finished yet, I'm a bit drained, and so although my best writing is done at night, alone, minimal light, and a caffeine source, tonight's not the night. So with more than a thousand words tonight, I'll call it a night.
Sunday, January 02, 2005
Can you really be that sick?
BBC NEWS | UK | Hoaxer sends 'quake dead' e-mails
What kind of person would do this? A hoaxer has sent e-mails to people with missing relatives from the Tsunami confirming their death. He got the e-mail addresses from an appeal for missing persons at Sky News. I just can't believe someone would do this
What kind of person would do this? A hoaxer has sent e-mails to people with missing relatives from the Tsunami confirming their death. He got the e-mail addresses from an appeal for missing persons at Sky News. I just can't believe someone would do this
New photo gallery
I have a habit of getting obsessed over things somethings, but with my new camera, and the fact that I will posting more and more photos, I started up an online photo gallery. Now I needed a place where I could store heaps of photos and then show them to the world in a nice page. I did a google search and Flickr is the answer. With heaps of bandwidth for my photos, I can store and nice amount of photos. So I've added a new button to my homepage to link to my Flickr gallery at http://www.flickr.com/photos/writingcorner
Stephen King's Rose Red
Well last night before I posted here, with my fireworks pic, I had the chance to watch Rose Red. The movie was in true King style, very quirky, odd characters, with supernatural elements, it was scary but I didn't get scared, if that makes sense, it was definitely better than any of the flicks that have come out as of late, maybe Gothika is an exception. The movie is long, so you have to be a die hard movie fan to keep watching, but King keeps the pace rolling at an incredible pace for the whole four and a bit hours. Definitely something worth hiring.
2005 with pictures
2005 the year of the photo
Benjamin Solah's blog now comes with pictures, my camera works, not my computer, but I have plenty of friends for that, and Harvey Norman. So when I go somewhere, my new Canon digital camera will come with me.
Saturday, January 01, 2005
Happy New Year
Well it's the beginning of a new year, ready to be filled with ups and downs, triumphs and defeats and events that will make this year special and unique. Last night's celebrations were good, fireworks spectacular, entertainment superb, the company great and the donations to the councils tsunami relief effort inspiring. For this year, I once again have a new year's resolution, and it's quite simple, finish my novel. So hope this year is good to you all.
Thursday, December 30, 2004
Good by Bakhtiaris
Well in the middle of the night at about 1am the Bakhtiaris were whisked out of Australia on a chartered flight, the government wanted to hide from the media attention, and the outrage of the unfair treatment of Australia's highest profile Asylum seekers. They were sent on their way to Pakistan despite their pleads by them, activists and others that they are in fact Afghan. They speak Farsi, they look Afghan, and there is evidence that they are, provided from sources within Afghanistan. Why couldn't the government see that? The thing is, if the government finds them to be Afghan they would have had to let them stay, this is the extent the government are willing to lie to avoid showing compassion.
Wednesday, December 29, 2004
hmm...some thoughts
The tragedy of the earth quake and tsunami in Asia is devastating, I haven't yeet said much about it, but my thoughts go out to all the people out there, with the death toll ever rising, I thank all the countries, organisations and people that have pledged aid to the countries affected. The death toll is coming towards the total of the death in the Dafur region in Sudan. It makes me wonder where there aid is, why hasn't our government pledged millions of dollars to them, I think with more than 75,000 dead and over 2.3 million homeless that the people there could really do with that. Where is the TV news specials for them, why is the situation there seem so much less important than the Tsunami. I still feel for the people in Asia, but why can't we feel for the people in not just Sudan, but Africa as a whole, because their devastation is not a suprise, but a daily occurance, that people seem immune to.
Tuesday, December 28, 2004
Just a note.
I'm still here, just been busy with christmas and the like.
I wrote a poem tonight, which can be found at my site, http://writingcorner.cjb.net, and I did a little bit on my novel (refer to meter at left).
Also I got a digital camera for christmas, which is great. But I'm having trouble, getting the photos onto the computer, I even wasted $30 on a compact flash card reader. The thing is, it's my computer. Well in the process I managed to make my computer faster, give it more free space, and remove some virus' and spyware, but still no pictures to show you. It's a shame, I really want to change my profile picture to something less formal. I'm still alive, are you? Leave a comment if your still here reading.
I wrote a poem tonight, which can be found at my site, http://writingcorner.cjb.net, and I did a little bit on my novel (refer to meter at left).
Also I got a digital camera for christmas, which is great. But I'm having trouble, getting the photos onto the computer, I even wasted $30 on a compact flash card reader. The thing is, it's my computer. Well in the process I managed to make my computer faster, give it more free space, and remove some virus' and spyware, but still no pictures to show you. It's a shame, I really want to change my profile picture to something less formal. I'm still alive, are you? Leave a comment if your still here reading.
Friday, December 24, 2004
Merry Christmas to all
This is just a note to say Merry Christmas to everyone out there who celebrate it also gretting for anyone else who is celebrating something else this time of year. Well I finished to article, and sent it to the editor, I'll keep you posted on where you can find it.
Thursday, December 23, 2004
Break and reflect
I'm taking a small break from writing this article to write this short post. I am having mixed feelings about a lot of things at the moment. I haven't blogged since Monday, which is also a worry, however minor. Between writing tonight, there was a period of stoppage, where I ended up in bed, and saying to myself that it's a waste of time. This has nothing to do with me, or my writing, but my family. I was interupted when my sister wanted to use the computer, but I was busy and I stressed to her that I needed to finished this. She didn't care, my dad got involved, and they were all arguing that I was hogging the computer, that I should give her a go. What was she going on for? to talk to friends. I was writing an article. Big difference. I feel with my political involvement and with my journalism, I'm doing something bad, like I'm taking drugs or going out stealing or something. My parents act as if me caring about things is wrong. My family, except for my bitchy sister lean to the side of 'mortgage is all that matters, and if your a muslim, your a terrorist.' I have learnt to avoid political discussions because they lead to full-blown arguments. But now I find I have to shut up about what I'm doing, like I'm doing something wrong. So I took to much time writing this post, so I wont fix gramma or spelling mistakes. By the way, Merry Christmas to you all.
Monday, December 20, 2004
Just a link
Middle East Times
I don't like talking religion, so I won't, I'll just leave you with a link to a story in the Middle East Times.
I don't like talking religion, so I won't, I'll just leave you with a link to a story in the Middle East Times.
Real problems take second pillar to the problems of the Bush dictatorship
Sudanese troops raiding Darfur: African Union - World - www.smh.com.au
Darfur is not getting any better, further raids, including by air have ravaged the region. The African Union are trying desperately to enforce peace in the region, but unlike the Iraq situation, international assistance is limited. With 70,000+ people dead and over 2.3 million homeless, isn't this a real problem, instead of a problem the US created in Iraq, they invaded them, not the other way around, why should they get help. But yet again the media falls silent on real problems, in favour of quibbles that feature the dictatorship of George W. Bush.
Darfur is not getting any better, further raids, including by air have ravaged the region. The African Union are trying desperately to enforce peace in the region, but unlike the Iraq situation, international assistance is limited. With 70,000+ people dead and over 2.3 million homeless, isn't this a real problem, instead of a problem the US created in Iraq, they invaded them, not the other way around, why should they get help. But yet again the media falls silent on real problems, in favour of quibbles that feature the dictatorship of George W. Bush.
Friday, December 17, 2004
The government once again avoid others finding the truth
Mental fears for hunger strikers - Immigration - www.theage.com.au
There are fears for the mental health of those hunger striking at Baxter Immigration Detention Centre. An alliance of independent psychiatrists and GP's have been formed to access those hunger striking, including those who have sewn their lips together. But the group has been denied access, the government claims that there is to much hype about the ordeal, and they shouldn't be negotiated with. Does the government have any compassion, for someone to take such a drastic stand would require some sort of severe suffering. Dr Newman said: "This latest outbreak of despair and self-harm is entirely predictable. Long-term detention damages psychological health and the prospect of indefinite detention results in hopelessness and mental deterioration."
There are fears for the mental health of those hunger striking at Baxter Immigration Detention Centre. An alliance of independent psychiatrists and GP's have been formed to access those hunger striking, including those who have sewn their lips together. But the group has been denied access, the government claims that there is to much hype about the ordeal, and they shouldn't be negotiated with. Does the government have any compassion, for someone to take such a drastic stand would require some sort of severe suffering. Dr Newman said: "This latest outbreak of despair and self-harm is entirely predictable. Long-term detention damages psychological health and the prospect of indefinite detention results in hopelessness and mental deterioration."
And the results are in.
Well I got my HSC results today, for those who are saying 'HSC? What the...?" it's my final year results. My mum was hassling for me to get up early so I could see them, I didn't, I just went on sleeping, amidst being mildly annoyed by my mum's nagging. My results are fine, nothing special, I'm just writing this post because I think that this is a major event and must be reported on, and my UAI is in tomorrow, that's my rank for University admission. Oh yea, I didn't write last night, my sister was on the computer so I watched lame slasher flicks till 1am.
Thursday, December 16, 2004
Where have I been?
Monday was the last time I graced my presence on here. This would be for a variety of reasons, 1. Monday was the last night I was home. Tuesday night I was at a friends watching iRobot after an exhausting day at the beach, and last night I went to my school's presentation night, where a few friends got awards. and 2. I have spent any other free time bludging and not even bothering to do much at all except indulge in a bit of Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas.
Whilst watching iRobot, which has a cool message at the end, I came up with a little bit for my novel when I was daydreaming. So tonight I'm ready to keep typing away, at the detriment of my parents, who find the 'tatter tatter' of the keyboard increasingly irritating.
One other thing, my results are in tomorrow, so I'll be on the net in the morning in a rush to release the pressure, and then either party hard or drown my sorrows.
Whilst watching iRobot, which has a cool message at the end, I came up with a little bit for my novel when I was daydreaming. So tonight I'm ready to keep typing away, at the detriment of my parents, who find the 'tatter tatter' of the keyboard increasingly irritating.
One other thing, my results are in tomorrow, so I'll be on the net in the morning in a rush to release the pressure, and then either party hard or drown my sorrows.
Monday, December 13, 2004
Public opinion survey
Well the HSC is over for me. But not my sister, she is now on the same voyage I have now finished, and she needs your help. She is doing a research project on the refugee issue for one of her subjects, and for it she, with my help, has made a survey to record people's opinions. So please go to: http://pub36.bravenet.com/vote/vote.php?usernum=3059349219&cpv=2 and answer a few questions, it will only take two minutes or so. If you know absolutely zilch on what the whole refugee issue is, please visit The Age's achive on the issue at http://www.theage.com.au/issues/immigration/index.html or www.chilout.org
They're crying out load for our support.
Baxter protest from the rooftops - Immigration - www.theage.com.au
An Asylum seeker from Iran has been seen protesting on the roof of Baxter Detention centre screaming, "I am a Christian, and I cannot go back to Iran.", he is part of 22 other detainees who have been on a hunger stike for just over a week, five stiching their lips together. The man said his rooftop protest was the only way he could show his plight to the Australian public.
An Asylum seeker from Iran has been seen protesting on the roof of Baxter Detention centre screaming, "I am a Christian, and I cannot go back to Iran.", he is part of 22 other detainees who have been on a hunger stike for just over a week, five stiching their lips together. The man said his rooftop protest was the only way he could show his plight to the Australian public.
Novel Update: First draft - Chapter One
Word Count: 3353
Last night I got writing again, it was only a little bit, and I did a little bit more this evening. Tomorrow I'm off to the beach, so I'll have to wait until tomorrow night to do some more, but then again I might get into it tonight, I'll keep you posted.
Last night I got writing again, it was only a little bit, and I did a little bit more this evening. Tomorrow I'm off to the beach, so I'll have to wait until tomorrow night to do some more, but then again I might get into it tonight, I'll keep you posted.
Saturday, December 11, 2004
Novel Update: First draft - Chapter 1 (and other stuff)
Ok, the prologue is done...for now, and I am about to move onto the first chapter. To tell you the truth the prologue was done a while ago, but I'm at a loss as to how to start the first chapter. It has given me some time to think things over, and the story is forever changing in my head. This is a good thing, because my story is constantly gaining more and more depth, I'm coming up with more stuff that adds interest to my character's and sub-plots that make it easy to string to story together and keep it moving.
With no writing, you'd think I'd be doing nothing, but I have been doing something. I have been working on an article for a webzine, from the US. The article is on the Australian refugee issue, and it's basically an overview of the whole issue. I sent the article away to the editor for a first look and he sent it back with notes for me to fix it up, this experience is extremely enjoyable and worthwhile.
With no writing, you'd think I'd be doing nothing, but I have been doing something. I have been working on an article for a webzine, from the US. The article is on the Australian refugee issue, and it's basically an overview of the whole issue. I sent the article away to the editor for a first look and he sent it back with notes for me to fix it up, this experience is extremely enjoyable and worthwhile.
Friday, December 10, 2004
Blackmail at it's most disgusting.
Countries that refuse US immunity 'face aid cuts' - World - www.smh.com.au
George Bush is going to cut humanitarian aid to countries that wont grant the US immunity from a future war crimes tribunal. By doing this hasn't he basically admitted to war crimes? If not, why would he do something so drastic? I know that the US are guilty of atrocious acts during the war, even though the mainstream media in Australia won't peep a word of it. It's because I care, I enough to find the real truth, and not some fake story telling me the American's are doing a noble thing. The problems run right into the American Army culture, the music in the comms, the kind of culture that instills killing people as an ok thing, and a way to create peace. Sorry you don't have to be a rocked scientist to realize invading a country does not equal peace, especially when it involves a large amount of civilian casualties. This really does prove that George W. Bush has no compassion.
George Bush is going to cut humanitarian aid to countries that wont grant the US immunity from a future war crimes tribunal. By doing this hasn't he basically admitted to war crimes? If not, why would he do something so drastic? I know that the US are guilty of atrocious acts during the war, even though the mainstream media in Australia won't peep a word of it. It's because I care, I enough to find the real truth, and not some fake story telling me the American's are doing a noble thing. The problems run right into the American Army culture, the music in the comms, the kind of culture that instills killing people as an ok thing, and a way to create peace. Sorry you don't have to be a rocked scientist to realize invading a country does not equal peace, especially when it involves a large amount of civilian casualties. This really does prove that George W. Bush has no compassion.
After 10 years to problem doesn't get any better.
UN lists children's fatal legacy of hunger, war and disease - Health - www.smh.com.au
UNICEF have released a report detailing the suffering of Children in the world. It produced some heart-breaking statistics, and makes you worry, with all the starving and sick children inhabiting the world's poorest countries, why aren't countries such as the US, Australia, UK and other healthy countries helping? They say it's not their responsibility to help out. Maybe countries should stop caring whether or not their responsible and just help out because they can. I mean the main way they do help, is to give out loans, but this leaves the country with a debt that is hampering the country from climbing out a vicious hole of poverty. A main source is conflict as stated in the report: "Fifty-nine wars were fought around the world between 1990 and 2003, and 16 of the world's 20 poorest countries suffered violent conflict in the past 15 years."
UNICEF have released a report detailing the suffering of Children in the world. It produced some heart-breaking statistics, and makes you worry, with all the starving and sick children inhabiting the world's poorest countries, why aren't countries such as the US, Australia, UK and other healthy countries helping? They say it's not their responsibility to help out. Maybe countries should stop caring whether or not their responsible and just help out because they can. I mean the main way they do help, is to give out loans, but this leaves the country with a debt that is hampering the country from climbing out a vicious hole of poverty. A main source is conflict as stated in the report: "Fifty-nine wars were fought around the world between 1990 and 2003, and 16 of the world's 20 poorest countries suffered violent conflict in the past 15 years."
Thursday, December 09, 2004
The truth comes out, but what's going to come of it.
Senate inquiry finds PM misled public - Immigration - www.theage.com.au
A senate inquiry has officially found that Howard had misled the public during the 2001 election campaign over the children overboard claims.
Mr Howard and other Liberal MPs claimed that children were thrown overboard when the SIEV X 4 sank on route to Australia, full of Refugees. They used this as a major political tool to deceive the Australian public into attaching an unfair stigma to Asylum seekers. I didn't need an official inquiry to tell me that Howard lied.
But what will come of it? Will the media actually report on this adequately, the report came out at about 5pm this afternoon, and I still haven't heard anything about it except for from the Age. Isn't it a shame that I have to search articles from a Melbourne newspaper to be adequately informed when I live in Sydney, isn't it even more of a worry, that I have to turn to an amateur journalist/blogger to get some truth about the battle of Fallujah via www.fallujahinpictures.com.
A great book has been published on the SIEV X tragedy where hundreds of Asylum seekers were left to drown outside Australian waters because if the government saved them they would have to bear the responsibility of their claims for Asylum. I have put the book on my chrissy wish-list. I just hope my racist grandparents won't realize what the book is all about and then decide not to get it for me because they are too ignorant to care.
update: since writing this major news sources around Australia have made a mention but not much.
A senate inquiry has officially found that Howard had misled the public during the 2001 election campaign over the children overboard claims.
Mr Howard and other Liberal MPs claimed that children were thrown overboard when the SIEV X 4 sank on route to Australia, full of Refugees. They used this as a major political tool to deceive the Australian public into attaching an unfair stigma to Asylum seekers. I didn't need an official inquiry to tell me that Howard lied.
But what will come of it? Will the media actually report on this adequately, the report came out at about 5pm this afternoon, and I still haven't heard anything about it except for from the Age. Isn't it a shame that I have to search articles from a Melbourne newspaper to be adequately informed when I live in Sydney, isn't it even more of a worry, that I have to turn to an amateur journalist/blogger to get some truth about the battle of Fallujah via www.fallujahinpictures.com.
A great book has been published on the SIEV X tragedy where hundreds of Asylum seekers were left to drown outside Australian waters because if the government saved them they would have to bear the responsibility of their claims for Asylum. I have put the book on my chrissy wish-list. I just hope my racist grandparents won't realize what the book is all about and then decide not to get it for me because they are too ignorant to care.
update: since writing this major news sources around Australia have made a mention but not much.
Wednesday, December 08, 2004
In the spirit of Christmas
In the Christmas spirit and as a new tradition between me and my friends, we have got our photo taken with Santa. Yes, I know we are 17-18, but we don't care, it's nice photo, don't you think?
Tuesday, December 07, 2004
What is worse than terrorism?
Annan Warns Chaos Looms in Violent Darfur (washingtonpost.com)
This is easy, the situation in Darfur is far worse. Whilst I feel for the vicitims of Terrorist attacks, the situation in Sudan recieves vastly less attention then the 'War on Terror' or the Iraq (which isn't even against Terrorists). How many died in 9/11 ...2,000 ...3,000. Yeah that's alot. But try around 70,000 people dead and millions homeless. But no one says much about that. Why? Because people only care when American's die. We all mourn the death of Americans but we are cut off from feeling compassion for people over the other side of the globe. Tell me where would troops be better off. In Iraq, fighting an unnessary war, or in Sudan protecting the people. No, not invading Sudan, but going into the Darfur region and protecting them and providing food and care. That would make a real difference.
This is easy, the situation in Darfur is far worse. Whilst I feel for the vicitims of Terrorist attacks, the situation in Sudan recieves vastly less attention then the 'War on Terror' or the Iraq (which isn't even against Terrorists). How many died in 9/11 ...2,000 ...3,000. Yeah that's alot. But try around 70,000 people dead and millions homeless. But no one says much about that. Why? Because people only care when American's die. We all mourn the death of Americans but we are cut off from feeling compassion for people over the other side of the globe. Tell me where would troops be better off. In Iraq, fighting an unnessary war, or in Sudan protecting the people. No, not invading Sudan, but going into the Darfur region and protecting them and providing food and care. That would make a real difference.
Absolutely disgraceful
Vanstone defends family's treatment - http://www.smh.com.au
An Indian family that migrated to Australia are facing deportation because their son is Autistic. When their visas expired, they had to apply to the immigration department to stay in Australia. The discriminatory system has the ability to reject applications if people aren't of sound health, this includes this family because their son is Autistic. Is this really fair?
An Indian family that migrated to Australia are facing deportation because their son is Autistic. When their visas expired, they had to apply to the immigration department to stay in Australia. The discriminatory system has the ability to reject applications if people aren't of sound health, this includes this family because their son is Autistic. Is this really fair?
New story
To keep my novel from going stale, I have turned to writing a different story. I wrote this just now, it's under 1000 words, so it's not long. It's called 'His father's words', have a look and tell me what you think. For Blogexplosion users, the story open's in a new window.
Monday, December 06, 2004
News in review
Scathing Putin brands US a dictatorship - SMH
Russian president has labeled George Bush a dictator over global affairs, saying a unipolar world would only worsen the threat of Terrorism. I whole-heartedly agree when the Russian leader says, "Even when dictatorship is beautifully gift-wrapped in pseudo-democratic phraseology, it has never been capable of resolving systemic problems. On the contrary, it can only make them worse,"
Trail of al-Qaeda fades away- SMH
The search for Osama bin Laden has gone cold, and the Pakistani president has said the US bears a large amount of responsibility for that. He said that there was a lack of troops in the region to fill in the 'voids.' Mr Bush said there was "nobody more dedicated" to tracking down bin Laden. That I agree with, as Mr Bush seems to think Iraq is more important than tracking down a mass-murdering Terrorist.
Images of Fighting in Fallujah Compel at Different Levels - Washington Post
A Blogger's coverage of the Battle of Fallujah is much more graphic and truthful than a US military slideshow. Isn't it a sad time for the media, when the main-stream media fails to adequately show the effect this war has on civilians and it is left up to a part time blogger to tell the world the truth. 'Iraq in pictures' gives a more in depth and truthful look at the horrors of this war. (Warning: Some pictures are extremely disturbing)
Egypt using laws to 'stifle' free speech - Middle East Times
Egypt's opposition left-wing party is moving to remove laws that ban gatherings of more than five people without the approval of the government. This has the effect of removing the threat that is faced from opposition demontrations.
Israeli, Palestinian doves spread message - Middle East Times
There is re-newed hope for piece in the region, when prominent groups from both sides of the divide will air presentations promoting peace to region prompting new talks.
Israel, Egypt Swap Prisoners in Sign of Warmer Ties - Reuters.com
Egypt-Israeli relations have been given a boost with the swapping of political prisoners.
And that's my wrap, also my post on the refugee issue has been cross-posted to In Search of Utopia
Russian president has labeled George Bush a dictator over global affairs, saying a unipolar world would only worsen the threat of Terrorism. I whole-heartedly agree when the Russian leader says, "Even when dictatorship is beautifully gift-wrapped in pseudo-democratic phraseology, it has never been capable of resolving systemic problems. On the contrary, it can only make them worse,"
Trail of al-Qaeda fades away- SMH
The search for Osama bin Laden has gone cold, and the Pakistani president has said the US bears a large amount of responsibility for that. He said that there was a lack of troops in the region to fill in the 'voids.' Mr Bush said there was "nobody more dedicated" to tracking down bin Laden. That I agree with, as Mr Bush seems to think Iraq is more important than tracking down a mass-murdering Terrorist.
Images of Fighting in Fallujah Compel at Different Levels - Washington Post
A Blogger's coverage of the Battle of Fallujah is much more graphic and truthful than a US military slideshow. Isn't it a sad time for the media, when the main-stream media fails to adequately show the effect this war has on civilians and it is left up to a part time blogger to tell the world the truth. 'Iraq in pictures' gives a more in depth and truthful look at the horrors of this war. (Warning: Some pictures are extremely disturbing)
Egypt using laws to 'stifle' free speech - Middle East Times
Egypt's opposition left-wing party is moving to remove laws that ban gatherings of more than five people without the approval of the government. This has the effect of removing the threat that is faced from opposition demontrations.
Israeli, Palestinian doves spread message - Middle East Times
There is re-newed hope for piece in the region, when prominent groups from both sides of the divide will air presentations promoting peace to region prompting new talks.
Israel, Egypt Swap Prisoners in Sign of Warmer Ties - Reuters.com
Egypt-Israeli relations have been given a boost with the swapping of political prisoners.
And that's my wrap, also my post on the refugee issue has been cross-posted to In Search of Utopia
Sunday, December 05, 2004
Novel Update: First Draft - Prologue
Word count: 2903
Well I have basically finished the prologue. I think that more of what happened prior to the main part of the story can be explained during the story. It is finished for the time being, and will undoubtedly require tweaking/re-writing like the rest will when the first draft is finished.
Tomorrow I will turn to other writing projects like an article from an ezine on the refugee issue, and I will also finish a poem, that started with two stanzas that popped in my head at 3am, when I was trying to sleep.
Oh and one more thing, leave questions for my FAQ.
Well I have basically finished the prologue. I think that more of what happened prior to the main part of the story can be explained during the story. It is finished for the time being, and will undoubtedly require tweaking/re-writing like the rest will when the first draft is finished.
Tomorrow I will turn to other writing projects like an article from an ezine on the refugee issue, and I will also finish a poem, that started with two stanzas that popped in my head at 3am, when I was trying to sleep.
Oh and one more thing, leave questions for my FAQ.
Political Rants.
Prime Minister John Howard said today that civil liberties must be compromised for the Aboriginal community, saying it is less important than staying alive. His statements are completely absurd and divert attention away from the need for further economic involvement by the government. It seems putting lots of money into blowing stuff up over in Iraq is more important than protecting the people that rightfully own this land.
from the Sydney Morning Herald.
The new photos of prisoner abuse in Iraq sicken me. My grand-father said in relation to the Abu-Graib torture scandal, "But it's only physiological", well this is a lot different even if you think psychological torture is ok. Why are the right supporting this? Also the resistance "problem" isn't getting better for the US, so get the fuck out of there it isn't your country.
SMH
I sent his letter to the Sydney Morning Herald in regards to this article, where students have defended the reputation of the school, criticizing a rape victims actions and this hit me with anger:
In response to the article titled, "Students challenge rape victim's story", It disgusts me to think people can put the reputation of a school above the well-being of this victim. It is not acceptable to cover up her story, and then make excuses for the rape. Rape isn't excusable no matter what, and the school should be held accountable for it's reckless actions. Private schools receive little admiration or respect from me for their ability to keep students from connecting with different cultures and socio-economic classes, and therefore institutionalizing a lack of tolerance in their education. The fact that they cover up a rape and then try to defend the reputation for the school, lowers my view of Private School further.
from the Sydney Morning Herald.
The new photos of prisoner abuse in Iraq sicken me. My grand-father said in relation to the Abu-Graib torture scandal, "But it's only physiological", well this is a lot different even if you think psychological torture is ok. Why are the right supporting this? Also the resistance "problem" isn't getting better for the US, so get the fuck out of there it isn't your country.
SMH
I sent his letter to the Sydney Morning Herald in regards to this article, where students have defended the reputation of the school, criticizing a rape victims actions and this hit me with anger:
In response to the article titled, "Students challenge rape victim's story", It disgusts me to think people can put the reputation of a school above the well-being of this victim. It is not acceptable to cover up her story, and then make excuses for the rape. Rape isn't excusable no matter what, and the school should be held accountable for it's reckless actions. Private schools receive little admiration or respect from me for their ability to keep students from connecting with different cultures and socio-economic classes, and therefore institutionalizing a lack of tolerance in their education. The fact that they cover up a rape and then try to defend the reputation for the school, lowers my view of Private School further.
Saturday, December 04, 2004
Morale question solved and my FAQ
In a previous post I questioned whether or not it was a worry that I wrote gore and horror, yet in reality I'm a human rights activists. I got a few responses to the question. Paul Moment was kind enough to direct me to an interview at the Nanowrimo site where this question was addressed. It said "No one ever accuses Stephen King of fantasizing about being an axe-murderer." and Jay made a comparison to me and Roald Dahl. Who writes disturbing adult novels, whilst also writing moral stories for children. I think you must highlight the fact that there are sick people out there and that brings awareness to the need for human decency. I am trying to weave a moral message of humanity into my novel. Yeah I know a horror novel with a moral to it, don't be surprised it's been done before. I'm still worried about me though.
On another subject, some bloggers have had readers submit questions to compile a FAQ on themselves for other readers. I am interested in doing the same, so please leave some questions so I can get started.
On another subject, some bloggers have had readers submit questions to compile a FAQ on themselves for other readers. I am interested in doing the same, so please leave some questions so I can get started.
National Treasure
Tonight I expected to sit on the internet all night, doing brain numbing things like browse blogexplosion for hours. Instead I got a phone call from my friend, Ben (no I'm not friends with myself). Me and four other friends went to the local cinema to see the new movie 'National Treasure'. I thought yeah, it might be alright, probably nothing special though. Boy I was so wrong. It has to be one of my favourite movies of all time, next to Braveheart and The Green Mile, among others. The fact that it was PG turned me off, but once you were hooked you forgot about that. It had suspense, action, history, mystery and a little bit of romance and comedy. It let your mind wander. For those who haven't seen or heard about the movie, it's about a treasure that has been passed through civilizations through the years (like right back to ancient Egypt). Until finally the founding father of the US declaration of independence hid it. Now Ben, (just a coincidence) played by Nicholas Cage, is on mission that has been passed down from his great grandfather to find the treasure.
Also I little piece at the start allowed my mind to wander to a solution to one of my holes in my novel, and things are slowly falling into place.
Also I little piece at the start allowed my mind to wander to a solution to one of my holes in my novel, and things are slowly falling into place.
Friday, December 03, 2004
Novel Update: First draft - Prologue
Word count: 2680
Ok, I really am trying to get into a rhythm when I'm writing this, I have brought a big event to start the story, this is a way of hooking the reader in. I have developed my character, and now seems very 3D, but he can be so even more. As I sleep every night, I usually get thoughts on stuff that can happen, filling in more doubts so as I write I am getting even more confident.
But...There's always a but. I'm having a kind of moral dilemma. My writing especially if you read Spontaneous homicide, McSean or Journey out of this place is very graphic and disturbing. Now there are other writer's like this, but the thing that gets me is while I describe in vivid detail how my totally screwed character disembowels someone or hacks out their eyes with a toothpick. I am still someone who is very politically and morally challenged, and I strive for compassion, human decency and equality. Is their a problem with me?
Ok, I really am trying to get into a rhythm when I'm writing this, I have brought a big event to start the story, this is a way of hooking the reader in. I have developed my character, and now seems very 3D, but he can be so even more. As I sleep every night, I usually get thoughts on stuff that can happen, filling in more doubts so as I write I am getting even more confident.
But...There's always a but. I'm having a kind of moral dilemma. My writing especially if you read Spontaneous homicide, McSean or Journey out of this place is very graphic and disturbing. Now there are other writer's like this, but the thing that gets me is while I describe in vivid detail how my totally screwed character disembowels someone or hacks out their eyes with a toothpick. I am still someone who is very politically and morally challenged, and I strive for compassion, human decency and equality. Is their a problem with me?
Thursday, December 02, 2004
Where is the Fucking compassion
Detainees on hunger strike say goodbye - Breaking News - http://www.theage.com.au
Excuse the language, but the refugee issue has laid reasonably dormant, the last couple of days, but it has fumed up again. Read this:
"We have been locked up like animals for a long time and we are not criminal people.
"We want to live in Australia as free people. That is our reason for hunger strike."
The immigration department said the hunger strike was over-exaggerated.
Over-exaggeration! What the Fuck! Let me ask everyone who sits at their computer all day browsing through blogexplosion not giving a shit (this is not all of you) If you were going to be given the death penalty for being a Christian would you flee your country anyway you could? How would you feel when you arrived at a so-called 'country of freedom' and then you were locked up? This problem is not getting any better. Most of the world and even most of Australia don't know enough or don't fucking care. I'm sorry if I blew up over this, but I am very frustrated that this is being ignored on every TV station, that most newspapers ignore this, that most people are so cheap and greedy to forget that they are human and only see them as criminals out to take our welfare.
Excuse the language, but the refugee issue has laid reasonably dormant, the last couple of days, but it has fumed up again. Read this:
"We have been locked up like animals for a long time and we are not criminal people.
"We want to live in Australia as free people. That is our reason for hunger strike."
The immigration department said the hunger strike was over-exaggerated.
Over-exaggeration! What the Fuck! Let me ask everyone who sits at their computer all day browsing through blogexplosion not giving a shit (this is not all of you) If you were going to be given the death penalty for being a Christian would you flee your country anyway you could? How would you feel when you arrived at a so-called 'country of freedom' and then you were locked up? This problem is not getting any better. Most of the world and even most of Australia don't know enough or don't fucking care. I'm sorry if I blew up over this, but I am very frustrated that this is being ignored on every TV station, that most newspapers ignore this, that most people are so cheap and greedy to forget that they are human and only see them as criminals out to take our welfare.
Australia and it's cheap and dirty trick for not taking responsibility
Most Iraqis on Nauru win refugee status - Immigration - www.theage.com.au
Good news on the refugee front, 27 Iraqis have been granted refugee status, but the problem is not fixed and this announcement doesn't come without it's problems. Australia will only settle 11 of the refugees, that were detained in Nauru. Leaving the others no better off, they have to find countries that will have them. Why doesn't Australia except them? This is the problem with the so called 'pacific solution' They use Nauru to house Asylum seekers and they are not held accountable because they aren't with in Australian borders. How cheap and cruel can the government get. These people are fleeing persecution, they desperately seek protection and we lock them up, and try as best as we can, even after it takes us three years to find them as refugees, to not have them in our country. THREE YEARS! The government took that long to realize that these people were genuine, come on give me a break Vanstone and get some fucking compassion.
Good news on the refugee front, 27 Iraqis have been granted refugee status, but the problem is not fixed and this announcement doesn't come without it's problems. Australia will only settle 11 of the refugees, that were detained in Nauru. Leaving the others no better off, they have to find countries that will have them. Why doesn't Australia except them? This is the problem with the so called 'pacific solution' They use Nauru to house Asylum seekers and they are not held accountable because they aren't with in Australian borders. How cheap and cruel can the government get. These people are fleeing persecution, they desperately seek protection and we lock them up, and try as best as we can, even after it takes us three years to find them as refugees, to not have them in our country. THREE YEARS! The government took that long to realize that these people were genuine, come on give me a break Vanstone and get some fucking compassion.
The racism and tolerance problem is getting worse not better
Police probe KKK-style attack - National - www.theage.com.au
Ok, my politics posts have been kept to a minimum, but today will be an exeption, there are some good news and bad news, so read them, learn and bear with me:
Today there have been reports of a KKK style attack in The Age, "A man and his son were yesterday accused of tying a noose around the necks of two Aborigines...After they broke into a hut...Aboriginal leaders have claimed the youths had nooses tied around their necks and wrists and were dragged around while being beaten for almost an hour along a river bank."
This is a good example of the recent influx of racism against aborigine's. There was an incident where an Aboriginal man died in suspicious circumstances, causing to community to riot. I naively thought that the racism problem was gone for the aboriginal people but it's being brought back up again.
How can someone judge someone based on what colour they are. To put them in a stereotype. This is a fundamental principle that some people fail to understand. Aborigine's are stereotyped as drunk no-hopers, Muslims are stereotyped as angry terrorists. Please this is a problem that deeply troubles me. So before you judge someone, you better have to right knowledge to judge them, otherwise quite bluntly. Fuck You!
Ok, my politics posts have been kept to a minimum, but today will be an exeption, there are some good news and bad news, so read them, learn and bear with me:
Today there have been reports of a KKK style attack in The Age, "A man and his son were yesterday accused of tying a noose around the necks of two Aborigines...After they broke into a hut...Aboriginal leaders have claimed the youths had nooses tied around their necks and wrists and were dragged around while being beaten for almost an hour along a river bank."
This is a good example of the recent influx of racism against aborigine's. There was an incident where an Aboriginal man died in suspicious circumstances, causing to community to riot. I naively thought that the racism problem was gone for the aboriginal people but it's being brought back up again.
How can someone judge someone based on what colour they are. To put them in a stereotype. This is a fundamental principle that some people fail to understand. Aborigine's are stereotyped as drunk no-hopers, Muslims are stereotyped as angry terrorists. Please this is a problem that deeply troubles me. So before you judge someone, you better have to right knowledge to judge them, otherwise quite bluntly. Fuck You!
Wednesday, December 01, 2004
No big party alternatives in both Australia and the US
New-look Labor's pitch to business - National - www.smh.com.au
Labor has retracted today all it's policies that were mildly differing from Howard and his racist, right-wing cronies. They moved in line with the Liberal policy on industrial relations with would slowly phase out any union involvement and they even backed down on their policy to protect the old growth forests. The Labor party are making it worse for themselves not better. I can tell you quite simply why Labor lost. It didn't offer an alternative, they are moving further and further towards the right and now they fail the represent the middle and lower class workers and which they were founded. They're just a cheap right-wing alternative. Maybe my dad, a staunch unionist, will change to the greens now.
This is the same in the US, Kerry lost the election because he didn't offer and alternative. Most of the left-wingers in the US voted for Kerry even though he was going to sustain the war. He wanted to try Osama Bin Laden in a US court, like all the things he did to other countries didn't matter. He puppeted Bush on gay rights. And yet, the left still supported him. I love Michael Moore's film, but I am confused as to why he supported Kerry, when he was for the war. Nader had the best policies of them all, but Moore campaigned to have him off the Ballot.
And nothing will change until lefties get off their asses and do something. Protest, go see your local member and campaigning. Blogging has made a big influence in getting out messages across, but we are still trying to combat the large number of right-wing bloggers that offer their racist taunts and puppet Bush and Howard'ss lies and right-wing hysteria.
Labor has retracted today all it's policies that were mildly differing from Howard and his racist, right-wing cronies. They moved in line with the Liberal policy on industrial relations with would slowly phase out any union involvement and they even backed down on their policy to protect the old growth forests. The Labor party are making it worse for themselves not better. I can tell you quite simply why Labor lost. It didn't offer an alternative, they are moving further and further towards the right and now they fail the represent the middle and lower class workers and which they were founded. They're just a cheap right-wing alternative. Maybe my dad, a staunch unionist, will change to the greens now.
This is the same in the US, Kerry lost the election because he didn't offer and alternative. Most of the left-wingers in the US voted for Kerry even though he was going to sustain the war. He wanted to try Osama Bin Laden in a US court, like all the things he did to other countries didn't matter. He puppeted Bush on gay rights. And yet, the left still supported him. I love Michael Moore's film, but I am confused as to why he supported Kerry, when he was for the war. Nader had the best policies of them all, but Moore campaigned to have him off the Ballot.
And nothing will change until lefties get off their asses and do something. Protest, go see your local member and campaigning. Blogging has made a big influence in getting out messages across, but we are still trying to combat the large number of right-wing bloggers that offer their racist taunts and puppet Bush and Howard'ss lies and right-wing hysteria.
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