Slide into 2011 with a laugh!

The year 2010 has come to an end. In the recent past, I have brought you not so good news. To compensate for that, “Getting Old” should bring at least a smile to your face. We all hope that 2011 will be a better year and hopefully bring peace in the world.

We should also spare a thought for the many flood victims in Central Queensland Australia, where thousands of people have become homeless due to their homes being flooded - those people have really nothing to laugh about.

I would like to encourage everybody who is high and dry to donate generously to the Red Cross flood appeal - if you can. So far more than 8000 people had been evacuated from their homes, and it was stated in the news today that the area flooded in Queensland is bigger than France and Germany combined - a disaster of mammoth proportion.

I wish all my blog visitors a happy and prosperous New Year, but most of all good health, and enjoy the following joke. – Werner

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Getting Old.

Two medical students were walking along the street when they saw an old man walking with his legs spread apart. He was stiff-legged and walking slowly.

One student said to his friend: "I'm sure that poor old man has the Peltry Syndrome. Those people walk just like that."

The other student says: "No, I don't think so. The old man surely has the Zovitzki Syndrome. He walks slowly and his legs are apart, just as we learned in class."

Since they couldn't agree they decided to ask the old man. They approached him and one of the students said to him, "We're medical students and couldn't help, but notice the way you walk, but we couldn't agree on the syndrome you might have. Could you tell us what it is?"

The old man said, "I'll tell you, but first you tell me what you two fine medical students think."

The first student said, "I think it's the Peltry Syndrome." The old man said, "You thought - but you are wrong."

The other student said, "I think you have Zovitzki Syndrome."

The old man said, "You thought - but you are wrong."

So they asked him, "Well, old timer, what do you have?"

The old man said, "I thought it was WIND - but I was wrong, too!"

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My quote for today: - Werner
Laughter is a tranquilizer with no side effects. ~Arnold Glasow

Afghanistan, a millstone around our collective necks.

Click on the link below for in-depth and poignant comments by Australian broadcaster Alan Jones, re the plight of the three soldiers charged over an incident in Afghanistan. Jones also interviews Charlie Lynn, MLC, in regards to this.

I believe these comments should be distributed as widely as possible so that as many Australians as possible and the world are made aware of and understand the truth as to what has happened, and the appalling treatment these men received, for serving their country.

It is a sad indictment on our mainstream media and government that they have not come out supporting these three. As Alan Jones says, the traitors (Hicks & others) that served and helped the Taliban got better treatment from our Government and media than these three.

Unfortunately, in war there will be civilian casualties and collateral damage. We are engaged in a futile and unwinnable war that is costly financially and in human lives. We send our soldiers there to fight insurgents, yet when they are attacked and defend themselves and, inadvertently kill civilians, they are hauled over the coals by the army brass. This is an absolute travesty. - Werner

Click here for Alan Jones comments and the interview with Charlie Lynn MLC. Click here to see the fact sheet of what Australia is spending in Afghanistan; one would think that charity should start at home.

My quote for today. - Werner
I hate war as only a soldier who has lived it can, only as one who has seen its brutality, its futility, its stupidity. Dwight David Eisenhower

Electricity will soon become unaffordable for many Australians.

I had an e-mail telling me that some elderly people are putting solar lights into their garden and take them inside at night to save electricity. I’m not sure if this will save them much, but it illustrates the desperate measures some people take, in trying to reduce the ever increasing electricity prices. Somebody else said to me that running the generator at night is starting to look a much cheaper option than getting mains power.

Good grief! Where are we heading in this country, and why has electricity suddenly become so expensive? Countries we export coal to produce cheaper electricity than we do. For a lot of people, to live in this once lucky country is starting to become more and more unaffordable. Following is what Viv Forbes of the Carbon Sense Coalition has to say. - Werner

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Green Power just generates Red Ink!

12th December 2010

To read all, you can link to a print friendly PDF of this newsletter here:
http://carbon-sense.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/green-power-generates-red-ink.pdf

The Carbon Sense Coalition has called for an end to all subsidies, mandated markets and sweetheart pricing for solar and wind energy.

The Chairman of “Carbon Sense”, Mr Viv Forbes, said that current energy policies were harming the existing power industry and robbing taxpayers and electricity consumers.

Forbes continued:

"It's time to end the mollycoddling of wind and solar energy toys before this stupidity does irreversible damage to Australia’s electricity supply and costs.

"The mindless green dream of producing serious base load power from whimsical breezes and intermittent sunbeams has caused a halt to new low-cost coal power, a boom in expensive gas power, a national debate about nuclear power and has had no effect at all on global climate.

"The frivolous wind and solar generators already installed have caused a surge in electricity prices, a bonanza for Chinese manufacturers and well founded doubts about our future ability to keep the lights on.

"Transmission costs are also ignored or under-estimated by green disciples. Because wind and solar are dilute forms of energy, often best developed in remote locations, collectors must sprawl over large areas of land, with each collector needing expensive new power lines to connect to the grid.

"Provision of cheap reliable energy is a basic requirement for modern civilisation and is the engine that lifts people from poverty. It is far too important to be left to green dreamers, anti-industrial zealots, vote seeking politicians, engineering illiterates and guilt-ridden millionaires.

"It is already obvious from Denmark, Spain, California and Germany that subsidising green power creates very little power but much red ink in the accounts. It always causes massive burdens for tax payers, electricity consumers and industry. Tax payers and investors will rue the day they allowed politicians to waste their savings on chimeras.

"Get rid of all the mandated markets, subsidies and tax breaks for all energy generators, and leave power engineers and business managers to work out how best to supply our future energy needs in a free competitive market.

"Subsidised power must collapse under its own dead weight. But every day's delay increases the eventual cost. "

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My thought for today: - Werner
When everything seems to be going against you, remember that the airplane takes off against the wind' not with it. - Henry Ford

WikiLeaks exposed the other side of our politicians.

News Flash! Here comes the Australian press to the rescue in support of Wikileaks,
defending rights to free speech and democracy. After all, if they are successful in shutting down Wikileaks - who is going to be next? And then they will just have vanilla-brand smooth news censored and filtered by politicians... the propaganda machine. We need freedom of the press to: "Keep the bastards honest." Click on the links below. Things are getting interesting!

Statement from Australian newspaper editors to PM Julia Gillard
See Time Magazine cover - clever:

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Following is an excellent letter, written by Sandy Sanderson from the Gold Coast Qld. Australia, to Qld. Liberal Senator Russel Trood, re his newsletter in which he made some remarks about WikiLeaks founder, Julian Assange. There would be only a small number of people, if any at all, who would disagree with the content of Sandy’s letter. This letter hits the nail on the head, precisely, and speaks for all of us. What WikiLeaks has exposed is that our politicians treat us like mushrooms, and that is: keep us in the dark and feed us BS. WickiLeaks founder Julian Assange has done us all a favour and proved to us electors that our politicians talk with a forked tongue and cannot be trusted. It is not surprising that the electors have become cynical. - Werner

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To: Senator Trood

Various legal professionals, as well as Kevin Rudd, have publicly pointed out that he is only a receiver of the information other sources in the US government leaked. Fairfax and other newspapers are publishing the same documents in print. Why aren't they branded as 'terrorists'? (Good question, Sandy - Werner)

What has happened to the world that this situation is highlighting, is that world governments are acting as a cartel and becoming centralised, oppressive and censoring because of overuse of government powers to conceal corruption.

The biggest bully in the playground is throwing a temper tantrum because someone 'told on him' and spoiled the charade.

It's about time government representatives started to stand up for truth and justice (yes, I know old fashioned concepts) irrespective of what the bully may do to them in recrimination.

I am heartened that world renowned human rights lawyer (and Australian) Sir Geoffrey Robertson (Click on this link) will be representing Julian Assange. In a sense, it is as though he is representing the whole of humanity by its implications. If justice is not carried out, and an innocent man is taken as political prisoner of the US government, then what hope does humanity have?

What is happening is a gigantic spiritual test to see who stands up fearlessly to defend human rights and the right to be given fair trial according to legal process. This issue is not lost on the general public who see Wikileaks as 'heroes' exposing the truth to protect the public and in the interests of justice. People don't want to be herded into a war footing as is being done. Inevitably they will pay with their lives, their freedom and their taxes. They deserve to know the truth because they are the largest stakeholders.

How quick it has been for our puppet government to jump up in knee-jerk reaction to do US bidding or sacrifice justice in order to appease the bully. We saw it with David Hicks and his torture in detention at 'Gitmo'. In the war crimes tribunals of the future when the US government is called to explain its actions, where will the Australian officials be? Still connected hand-in-glove?

Even the New Zealand government is more protective of its citizens' human rights... Despite its tiny size, it can still roar like a lion.

I am ashamed at such times to be an Australian citizen.

Sandy Sanderson, Gold Coast, Qld. Australia

My thought for today. – Werner

Do the right thing. It will gratify some people and astonish the rest. - Mark Twain

Former Australian Prime Minister has expressed his opinion about China, now we can see how they look at things in China.

We all know now Kevin Rudd’s opinion on China, thanks to WikiLeaks. They're calling Kevin Rudd tough, now that WikiLeaks shows he told the United States to prepare for war with China. Or as Rudd himself put it, according to a cable from the US State Department, "a brutal realist on China".

Now, let’s see what they say in China. Below is part of a speech by a Chinese top military man, to read the full speech, click here. - Werner

This is the actual text of a speech delivered in December, 2005 by Comrade Chi Haotian –the Vice-Chairman of China’s Military Commission to top officers and generals. Keep in mind that China has for many years advocated deceitful and covert warfare against its enemies. This is their Modus Operandi. There should be little question that a “Bird Flu” Pandemic would deeply excite them. (Don’t forget how they have poisoned thousands of American pets and knowingly placed lead paints on toddler’s toys.)

“Comrades, I’m very excited today,

because the large-scale online survey sina.com that was done for us showed that our next generation is quite promising and our Party’s cause will be carried on. In answering the question, “Will you shoot at women, children and prisoners of war,” more than 80 per cent of the respondents answered in the affirmative, exceeding by far our expectations.

Today I’d like to focus on why we asked sina.com to conduct this online survey among our people. My speech today is a sequel to my speech last time, during which I started with a discussion of the issue of the three islands [Taiwan, Diaoyu Islands and the Spratley Islands --- Ott] and mentioned that 20 years of the idyllic theme of ‘peace and development’ had come to an end, and concluded that modernization under the saber is the only option for China’s next phase. I also mentioned we have a vital stake overseas.

The central issue of this survey appears to be whether one should shoot at women, children and prisoners of war, but its real significance goes far beyond that. Ostensibly, our intention is mainly to figure out what the Chinese people’s attitude towards war is: If these future soldiers do not hesitate to kill even non combatants, they’ll naturally be doubly ready and ruthless in killing combatants. Therefore, the responses to the survey questions may reflect the general attitude people have towards war ..We wanted to know: If China’s global development will necessitate massive deaths in enemy countries, will our people endorse that scenario? Will they be for or against it?

The fact is, our ‘development’ refers to the great revitalization of the Chinese nation, which, of course, is not limited to the land we have now but also includes the whole world. As everybody knows, according to the views propagated by the Western scholars, humanity as a whole originated from one single mother in Africa.

Therefore no race can claim racial superiority. However, according to the research conducted by most Chinese scholars, the Chinese are different from other races on earth. We did not originate in Africa. Instead, we originated independently in the land of China. Therefore, we can rightfully assert that we are the product of cultural roots of more than a million years, civilization and progress of more than ten thousand years, an ancient nation of thousand years, and a single Chinese entity of two thousand years. This is the Chinese During our long history, our people have disseminated throughout the Americas and the regions along the Pacific Rim, and they became Indians in the Americas and the East Asian ethnic groups in the South Pacific.

We all know that on account of our national superiority, during the thriving and prosperous Tang Dynasty our civilization was at the peak of the world. We were the centre of the world civilization, and no other civilization in the world was comparable to ours. Later on, because of our complacency, narrow-mindedness, and the self-enclosure of our own country, we were surpassed by Western civilization, and the centre of the world shifted to the West.

In reviewing history, one may ask: Will the centre of the world civilization shift back to China? Actually, Comrade Liu Huaqing made similar points in early 1980’s Based on an historical analysis, he pointed out that the centre of world civilization is shifting. It shifted from the East to Western Europe and later to the United States; now it is shifting back to the East. Therefore, if we refer to the 19th Century as the British Century and the 20th century as the American Century, then the 21st Century will be the Chinese Century!! (Wild applause fills the auditorium.) nation that calls itself ‘descendants of Yan and Huang.’

Our Chinese people are wiser than the Germans because, fundamentally, our race is superior to theirs. As a result, we have a longer history, more people, and larger land area. On this basis, our ancestors left us with the two most essential heritages, which are atheism and great unity. It was Confucius, the founder of our Chinese culture, who gave us these heritages. These two heritages determined that we have a stronger ability to survive than the West. That is why the Chinese race has been able to prosper for so long. We are destined ‘not to be buried by either heaven or earth’ no matter how severe the natural, man-made, and national disasters. This is our advantage. Take response to war as an example. The reason that the United States remains today is that it has never seen war on its mainland. Once its enemies aim at the mainland, the enemies would have already reached Washington before its congress finishes debating and authorizes the president to declare war. But for us, we don’t waste time on these trivial things.

My thought for today: - Werner

Fear is that little Darkroom where negatives are developed. Michael Pritchard

Australia is losing its heart and soul to foreign interests.

We were once called the “lucky” and the “clever country;” ex-cuse me for having a nostalgic vibe. The way things are going, it won’t be long before Australia is owned by foreign interests. When will our politicians take their blinkers off before all our land is in foreign hands and the profits go to their respective countries?

Our federal Independent, Tony Windsor MP, of National Party stock, who helped to get a Labor federal Government installed, is said to have sold his farm to Chinese interests for 3.3 Million dollars. He is not recontesting his federal seat, so he could easily thumb his nose at his rural electors and avoid the backlash and – is laughing all the way to the bank. One has to wonder when some foreign investors will buy our governments. The following is courtesy of ‘The Weekly Times’. - Werner

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FOREIGN investors have snapped up billions of dollars in prime agricultural land and rural enterprises. Some of Australia's best-known farm brands - including Golden Circle, SPC, Dairy Farmers, CSR Sugar, SunRice and AWB - have fallen into foreign hands.

A Herald Sun investigation shows a swag of government-backed entrepreneurs - including from China, the Middle East and Singapore - are sizing up potential investments as global powers move to secure food supplies. More than $9 billion of prized agricultural assets have been sold to offshore interests in the past two years. And there is more to come - though no one can accurately say how much is for sale.

A Chinese delegation will arrive next month, hoping to acquire farms and other agricultural assets. Tens of millions of dollars are being invested in water licences by American and British investors. Tasmanian real estate executive Betty Kay said she had five Chinese investors hoping to acquire dairy assets -part of the superpower's plan to provide milk to its 1.3 billion population. The investment is good news for depressed local farmers who can no longer make a decent living. But the sell off has raised alarm bells in the bush and Canberra. MPs from across the political spectrum are worried about unchecked foreign investment and are demanding greater transparency to ensure Australia's food supplies are not jeopardised.

Assistant Treasurer Bill Shorten has flagged plans to conduct an audit of farm sales and is keen to "further strengthen transparency" of foreign ownership in agriculture. Independent Senator Nick Xenophon, who will introduce a private member's Bill, argues the present rules around foreign investment are a "joke.” “No one is even monitoring how much of our farmland we are selling," he said. Australia, with its rich and fertile lands and sophisticated farming techniques, is a key target for some of the world's biggest agricultural enterprises.

Spanish Ebro Foods is bidding $600 million to acquire Sun Rice and Singapore-based Wilmar International won a $1.75 billion bid for CSR's sugar and renewable energy business.

Doug Chant, ex-president of the United Dairy Farmers of Victoria, said foreign interests were seeking freehold farms in western Victoria. "There appears to be interest there and, at the least, the Government should have a register of properties being sold to overseas interests," Mr Chant said. Greens' deputy leader Christine Milne is pushing for stricter controls. She said countries such as China, the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia had begun "a massive buy-up". "It is now imperative Australia protects its land and water as part of national sovereignty," she said.

WHAT'S BEEN BOUGHT.

NATIONAL FOODS - SOLD in 2009. Purchase: Australia's largest dairy food and juice company which sells brands such as Pura Milk, Moove, Vitasoy and Berri Juice Buyer: Kirin Holdings took over the company when it took over the Lion Nathan Group in late 2009. Country: Japan. Price: $3.5 billion

AAB GRAIN - SOLD in 2009 Purchase: The Australian Barley Board was Australia's largest agribusiness but was bought out in mid 2009. Buyer: Viterra, an international agribusiness which operates in Western Canada, North America, Australia and New Zealand. Country: Canada. Price: $1.6 billion.

DAIRY FARMERS - SOLD in 2009. Purchase: One of the largest and oldest dairy manufacturers in Australia, which was first established in 1900.Buyer: Lion Nathan purchased the company in 2008 but was purchased a year later by Japanese brewer Kirin Holdings. Country: Japan. Price: $675 million.

TIMBERCORP - SOLD in 2009. Purchase: 8096ha property for the farming of almonds and with water rights of 90,000 mega litres. Buyer: Olam a Singapore based company purchased the property which represents 45 per cent of the Australian almond crop. Country: Singapore. Price: $288 million

NUFARM LIMITED - STAKE SOLD in 2010. Purchase: The crop protection and fertilisers company recently had to raise cash by selling a 20 percent stake. Buyer: Sumitomo of Japan an insurance company. Country: Japan. Price: $250 million.

THE TASMAN GROUP - SOLD in 2008. Purchase: A Victorian-based meat processor purchased in 2008. Buyer: Swift Australia the nation's largest meat processor expands buying a competitor Tasman Group. Country: Brazil. Price: $150m.

AACO - SOLD in 2009 Purchase: Australia's largest cattle company with 22 properties owns 1.1 percent of the Australian continent. Buyer: Felda Iffco an international conglomerate with ownership in the Middle East and Malaysia now owns 19.9 percent of the company. Country: United Arab Emirates and Malaysia. Price: $70m.

TATIARA MEAT COMPANY - SOLD in 2009. Purchase: Australia's largest exporter of chilled lamb purchased in December 2009 Buyer: Swift Australia, the nation's largest meat processor purchases expands buying the South Australian based company. Country: Brazil. Price: $30m.

ROCKDALE BEEF - SOLD in 2010. Purchase: The feedlots and processing plant was purchased in March 2010. Buyer: Swift Australia the nations largest meat processor purchases the integrated beef cattle feedlot, feed mill, meatworks and farming business. Country: Brazil Price: $28m.This was bought from Kirin Holdings, the Japanese company that owns National Foods and Dairy Farmers.

MURRAY DARLING WATER LICENCES - SOLD. Purchase: Water licences in the Murray Darling. Buyer: Summit Global Management a San Diego-based investment management firm that invests in Hydro commerce. Country: USA. Price: $20m.

MURRAY DARLING WATER LICENCES - SOLD. Purchase: Water licences in the Murray Darling. Buyer: Guinness Peat Group a British Investment Group investing in licences. Country: UK. Price: $35m.

IMPACT FERTILISER - SOLD in 2010. Purchase: The former family business has been operating for almost 20 years. Buyer: Ameropa a privately owned Swiss international grain and fertiliser trader had been in a joint venture with the company for four years when it bought the company in May this year. Country: Swiss. Price: $50m.

WHAT'S CURRENTLY BEING BOUGHT.

AWB LIMITED – APPROVED. Purchase: AWB's profits suffered in the years following the Cole Inquiry. Buyer: The Foreign Investment Review Board this month approved the purchased by Canadian firm Agrium .Country: Canada. Price: $1.2 billion.

SUNRICE AUSTRALIA - PENDING APPROVAL. Purchase: The major Australian household brand is of one of the world's largest rice food companies and is currently being bought out by a firm out of Spain. Buyer: Ebro Foods is the world's largest producer of rice and the second biggest producer of pasta. Country: Spain. Price: $600 million.

CSR SUGAR - APPROVED. Purchase: The major sugar producer has recently been given permission to go ahead with the sale to Wilmar International by FIRB. Buyer: Wilmar International is Asia's leading agribusiness group and is the largest global processor and merchandiser of palm and lauric oils. Country: Singapore. Price: $288 million. SHENHUA WATERMARK COAL - PENDING APPROVAL.

Purchase: More than 25 farms have been purchased in around the town of Gunnedah in order for the company to pursue coal mining interests in the area. Farmers are worried about the damage that a mine may do the local aquifer. Buyer: Shenhua Watermark Coal is the world's biggest coal company and is majority owned by the Chinese government. Country: China. Price: $130 million.

FUTURE INVESTMENT TARGETS CUBBIE STATION. Purchase: The station is the largest irrigation property in the Southern Hemisphere and comes with water licences for 460,000 megalitres. Potential Buyers: Currently in administration but being circled by Swiss-based Western Gulf Advisory and Olam a Singaporean group which already has significant agricultural interests in Australia. Country: Companies from various countries looking at bidding.

QUEENSLAND SUGAR MILLS. Purchase: Following the announcement of the deal over CSR Sugar there is speculation that many of the millsin Northern Queensland such as Mackay Sugar, Maryborough Sugar Factory, Proserpine Sugar Mill and Mossman Mill may be bought. Potential Buyers: The interested parties are believed to include France's Louis Dreyfus, American group Bunge and China's Bright Foods Company. Country: France, USA, China.

WARRNAMBOOL CHEESE. Purchase: One of the last Australian Cheese manufacturers this week saw Bega Cheese buy into the company,however Canada's Saputo has also been eyeing the company.

Potential Buyers: Australian firm Bega Cheese appears to have beaten out its Canadian competitor for the moment however, Saputo appears to remain interested in the company. Country: Canada.

VICTORIAN AND TASMANIAN DAIRY FARMS. Purchase: Chinese investors are currently looking at a number of Dairy farms in Victoria and Tasmania. Potential Buyers: The buyers are seeking to invest in the farms in order to export milk powder to China. Country: China.

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My thought for today: - Werner Australia is a lucky country run mainly by second-rate people who share its luck. - Donald Horne

Boycott the Cancun Climate Circus!

Statement by Viv Forbes, Chairman, the Carbon Sense Coalition.

The Carbon Sense Coalition today called on all Australian governments to boycott the Cancun Climate Change circus. The Chairman of “Carbon Sense”, Mr Viv Forbes,said “we do not want a repeat of the Copenhagen obscenity when 45,000 people gathered to discuss how to reduce things like air travel and conspicuous consumption”.

Forbes said there is no reason for Australia to attend.

This conference is no longer about climate – it is about international redistribution of wealth and industry from the west to the rest of the world. Australia is part of the spoils they hope to redistribute.There is zero chance of global agreement on emissions trading schemes or more carbon taxes.Click on picture to enlarge!

The political landscape and public opinion in the USA has turned dramatically sceptical of the increasingly shrill predictions from the desperate alarmists. Moreover, trading in carbon credits in Chicago has collapsed and even Al Gore is recanting on ethanol. Without US participation, nothing will be agreed globally.

“In addition, for over a decade, the whimsical world climate has mocked the feverish forecasts of the IPCC. Global Warming looks like becoming Global Cooling (still caused by burning coal of course). Prudently they chose tropical Mexico for this conference or the world media would be treated again to the amusing spectacle of warmists shivering in another bitter northern winter of “unseasonal” snow and blizzards.

“So they are plotting a new scheme – enforced global rationing of carbon emissions on a per capita basis. This means transfer of Australian wealth, industry and jobs to India, China and Africa for decades to come. And to bypass parliaments and the suspicious electorate, this will be attempted via “International Agreements”.

“Australia should send no more than one observer to Cancun, and that person should have no power to agree to anything. In particular there should be no promises to extend the failed but costly Kyoto Accord, and no transfer of authority to any new international body.

“A boycott makes more sense than sending jumbo jets of people to beach resorts in Mexico to talk about reducing that sort of activity.”

For more reading click, here and here.

Authorised by: Viv Forbes, Chairman, The Carbon Sense Coalition.

Rosevale, Qld, Australia
www.carbon-sense.com
Phone 07 5464 0533
Email: Info@carbon-sense.com

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My thought for today: - Werner
We all live under the same sky, but we don't all have the same horizon. Konrad Adenauer

Holy Basil! What? You’re stressed? Tulsi tea will relax you.

Sonja Hardy; Teacher (retired) inveterate tea drinker; an excellent cook - and as you can see; good looking; writes about her experience with Tulsi tea. Followed by Tulsi tea facts. – Follow Me on Twitter @ werkar25. - Werner

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Some time ago I read about Tulsi Tea, and have been meaning to buy some. Yesterday I had a cup at a friend’s place, and was very impressed with the taste – slightly sweet, pleasant and very refreshing. It doesn’t need milk nor sweetening, but you can add both if you wish (though adding pasteurized milk would possibly interfere with some of the health benefits – and if you want to sweeten I’d recommend Stevia rather than sugar – much healthier).

Tulsi tea is credited with many health benefits – some of which have been verified scientifically. It is safe for children, and because it tastes good, apparently children usually like it. Also it’s naturally caffeine-free. Now I’m definitely going to buy some next time I’m near a health shop. Tulsi is also available in supplement form – but I wouldn’t bother because the tea tastes so good. - Sonja Hardy

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What is Tulsi. (Holy Basil)?

"The Queen of Herbs" - is the most sacred herb of India. Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum), although also known as Holy Basil, is a different plant from the pesto variety of Basil (Ocimum basilicum). Tulsi has been revered in India for over five thousand years, as a healing balm for body, mind and spirit, and is known to bestow an amazing number of health benefits. ORGANIC INDIA is pleased to offer Organic Tulsi, for the first time, as a stress-relieving, energizing and delicious tea. For our ORGANIC INDIA Tulsi Tea Collection we utilize a proprietary combination of 3 varieties of Tulsi: Rama Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum), Krishna Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum) and Vana Tulsi (Ocimum gratissimum). Each variety lends its own distinct and characteristic taste that contributes to the delicious flavour and aroma of our blend. - Click on picture to enlarge.

What are the health benefits of Tulsi?
Tulsi is rich in antioxidant and renowned for its restorative powers, Tulsi has several benefits:
Relieves stress / adaptogen
Bolsters immunity
Enhances stamina
Provides support during cold season
Promotes healthy metabolism
A natural immuno-modulator

"Modern scientific research offers impressive evidence that Tulsi reduces stress, enhances stamina, relieves inflammation, lowers cholesterol, eliminates toxins, protects against radiation, prevents gastric ulcers, lowers fevers, improves digestion and provides a rich supply of antioxidants and other nutrients. Tulsi is especially effective in supporting the heart, blood vessels, liver and lungs and also regulates blood pressure and blood sugar." Dr. Ralph Miller, former Director of Research for the Canadian Dept. of Health and Welfare.

How can Tulsi offer so many health benefits?
The unique chemistry of Tulsi is highly complex. Tulsi contains hundreds of beneficial compounds known as phyto-chemicals. Working together, these compounds possess strong antioxidant, antibacterial, antiviral, adaptogenic, and immune-enhancing properties that promote general health and support the body's natural defense against stress and diseases. The essential oils in the leaves of Tulsi that contribute to the fragrance and refreshing flavor of Tulsi Tea, are a particularly rich source of valuable phyto-chemicals.

What is an adaptogen?
An adaptogen is an agent that helps the body adapt more efficiently to stress. Adaptogens reduce the intensity and negative impact of the stress caused by mental tension, emotional difficulties, poor lifestyle habits, disease and infection, pollution and other factors. Tulsi is one of the most effective adaptogens known.

What are antioxidants?
Antioxidants slow down the process of excess oxidation and protect cells from the damage caused by free radicals. When cells are attacked by free radicals, excess oxidation occurs which damage and destroy cells. Antioxidants stop this process. The cellular damage caused by free radicals can be responsible for causing and/or accelerating many diseases. Tulsi is rich in antioxidants and is recommended to guard against free radicals and protect from damaging excess oxidation.

What is an immuno-modulator?
An immuno-modulator is an agent that balances and improves the immune response of the body in fighting antigens (disease causing agents such as bacteria, viruses, microbes, allergens etc.) and maintaining health.

How soon can I expect to see results from drinking ORGANIC INDIA Tulsi Teas?

Some of Tulsi effects are quite immediate, while others develop gradually after weeks of regular use. For example, you may feel more relaxed and energized after the first cup. Although Tulsi has many specific effects on different body systems, its main benefits arise from its impressive general capacity to assist the body's natural process of healing and maintaining health. Tulsi overall health promotion and disease prevention effects are powerful, but often subtle. For example, you may simply notice that you do not seem to be bothered by stress or common illnesses, such as colds or flu, nearly as often as before. Or you may notice that you generally tire less easily. As with many other herbal supplements, it usually takes at least a week or so of consistent use for the body to experience major benefits.

Continue to read, page: 2 - 3

More interesting links:

What is Tulsi?
Is Tulsi Tea Harmful?
Side Effects of Tulsi.
Anti-Stress Tulsi Herbal Tea & Ayurvedic Medicine - Benefits of Ayurveda
Tulsi Tea - 100% Caffeine Free and 100% Chemical Free

My quote for today: - Werner
Tea is wisdom, just add water. ~Anonymous

Is Salt a Potential Killer?

Could you say that you are “Worth your Salt?” This is another interesting term full of meaning. Centuries ago salt was so priceless that many people used to have part of their pay in salt. It's mentioned in the Old Testament of the Bible (Ezra 6:9) in the context of pay to the Persian king's servants. According to the Roman writer Pliny the Elder, Roman soldiers were paid with salt. It's where the word 'salary' comes from (the Latin word 'salarium').

My doctor told me once that humans need salt to live. A healthy, active lifestyle demands sufficient salt intake. Human life is dependent on the presence of sodium. However, he added “While a little bit of salt is good for you; too much can cause health problems.” Excess salt consumption will manifest itself in the form of “sodium rings” around the periphery of the eye.

When I cut sugar cane in far north Queensland Australia in the 1950s, I suffered from heat exhaustion, and I was told to add a teaspoon of salt to a glass of water and drink it. It certainly alleviated the heat exhaustion; however this frequent saltwater treatment produced "sodium rings" around the periphery of my eyes. I stopped using salt in my food, which was hard for a week, but then the taste buds adjusted themselves and the food started to taste much better without salt.

Unfortunately, by eating processed food like cheese sausages etc, which are loaded with salt; and consequently, we consume more salt than is good for us. Following is an interesting article, perhaps it could help to persuade you to reduce your salt intake. – Werner.

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Your Salt may be Killing You.

By Dr. David Jockers.

Salt is one of the most basic and ubiquitous food seasonings. Historically, salt has been an extraordinarily valuable food preservative for most cultures in the world. Natural salt contains a vast array of essential minerals and continues to be incredibly valuable for our health. Today, modern refineries have chemically altered most salt making it hazardous for human consumption.

Typical table salt is composed of 97.5% sodium chloride and 2.5% chemicals such as anti-flow and anti-caking agents. Table salt is bleached and processed with excessive heat that alters the natural chemical structure and destroys essential trace minerals. Hazardous molecules such as iodine and fluoride are added along with toxic substances like aluminum hydroxide (used as an anti-moisture additive).

This processing takes the "life" out of the salt making the unnatural sodium chloride and chemical fillers more challenging to metabolize. The body must sacrifice tremendous amounts of energy and up to 23 times the cell water to neutralize the damaging effects of the salt. The inability of the body to effectively neutralize these toxic substances results in: Unsightly cellulite Rheumatism; arthritis, & gout; Kidney & Gall Bladder stones; High Blood Pressure.

Many people have turned to sea salts for their regular salt usage. Unfortunately, many of our lakes and oceans are loaded with toxic poisons like mercury, PCBs and dioxin. Oil spills can toxify a lake or ocean's salt stores for decades after the incident. Over 85% of all sea salt producers are using a refining process for their salt production. Based on this understanding it is wise to assume that sea salt can no longer be trusted as a pure source of essential salts.

Pink salts are one of the very few varieties of salts that have remained pure and stable in nature. Natural pink salts are known for their essential trace minerals and their ability to regulate cellular fluid balance. These salts take on their color due to the presence of iron oxide and their abundance of essential trace minerals. These minerals are in a very small colloidal form and inter-connected in structure allowing for easy absorption and a nutrient synergy that exponentially enhances their effect in the body.

Pink salt is often labeled based on its geography. The most reputable type of pink salt is Himalayan Salt although it is also found in Hawaii, Australia, Peru, Utah, and Poland.

Contrary to popular belief these salts do not elevate blood pressure. Their ability to regulate fluid balance allows them to naturally stabilize blood pressure at a healthy and supportive level for the body. Some of the other benefits of pink salts include:

Promoting blood sugar health; Energy Production (hydro-electrical); Absorption of food particles; Supports vascular & respiratory health; Promoting sinus health; Prevention of muscle cramps; Promoting bone strength; Regulating your sleep & moods; Supporting your libido; Enhances immune function; Stabilizes heart rate & blood pressure; Extracts excess acidity.

Pink salts provide a great remedy for asthma and allergy symptoms as well. The salts have a unique ability to unplug the thick mucus secretions in the lungs & stop overflow of nasal secretions when water is plentiful. Taking it as a natural anti-histamine, one can drink 2-3 cups of purified water with a pinch of healthy salts.

Remember to listen to your body when it comes to the use of these powerhouse salts. Certain body types depend on more salts than others. If you crave salts, you are typically in need of trace minerals. Follow your instincts and use a bit more pink salt on your foods. If you have no craving for salts then only use small amounts of pink salts.

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My thought for today: - Werner “A wise woman puts a grain of sugar into everything she says to a man, and takes a grain of salt with everything he says to her.” Helen Rowland

SBS "Insight" – “Islam.” This show didn’t allay the fears Australians have about Islam.

I received an e-mail a long time ago with a question: “Can a good Muslim be a good Australian?” The answers were given; it was stated, by an Australian who lived in Saudi Arabia for 20 years. I was urged by a few people to publish this on my blog, but I refrained of doing so because I couldn’t get the source or the name of the Australian. But I thought that the e-mail was certainly food for thought.

When I was invited by “Insight” to be on the program, I thought this would be relevant to the subject being discussed at SBS. I sent this to a friend whose hobby it is to read and analyse religious books, especially the Koran. I asked him if the answers given to that question were basically right. His answer was, “They are spot on.” So, I thought this would be ideal to bring to the debate and to see if it gets rebutted by the Muslims that were present.

On the flight to Sydney I showed a printout of this to the lady sitting next to me and she said that it was excellent to bring up and have it discussed, but be prepared, she warned me, to be cut off by Jenny Brockie in mid sentence, adding “I personally don’t like her!” Well, not everybody loves everybody, but the lady was right about the cutting off.

I also showed this printout to several people before we went into the studio and all said this is excellent for you to bring up. However, I couldn’t even give one reason as to why a Good Muslim can’t become a good Australian. As soon as “Insight” had finished on Tuesday night my phone started to ring with upset people at the other end, followed by e-mails; expressing disappointment and dismay about the way “Insight” was handled. Words like total flop, imbalance, stacked with Muslims who had the floor, were voiced. I told them that it is no use telling me this; tell SBS. Many wondered why the Rev. Hon. Fred Nile ED., L.Th., M.L.C. wasn’t on the show. He had just published a Media release, called “Islamaphobia and Islamisation.” An interesting read.

After the show I spoke with two Muslim women, one was a lawyer, and I gave them the printout and my e-mail address and asked them to let me know if the answers given to: (Can good Muslims be good Australians?) is correct in their opinion, they promised that they will reply, but I won’t hold my breath.

For me it was an interesting experience, but also disappointing due to being cut off and, not given any further opportunity to speak. It was also very hectic for me, flying down the day before and back the next day, an hour after the show.

I had an interesting mix of taxi drivers; the first one was a migrant from Ghana a jolly fellow who explained the different landmarks and the suburbs we were in. He even told me where Lee Lin Chin, the SBS weekend newsreader lives, and that he had driven her many times in his taxi to the SBS studio. I asked him what his name was and he said Ray. “Is this a given name for Australia,” I asked.” ‘No the real name is rayno (don’t know if this is the right spelling) but it sounded like Rhino to me and I asked him if that name comes from the animal “Rhinoceros” and he burst out laughing, “No, no, no, it is not derived from Rhinoceros.” For a moment I was worried that he was losing control of the car, but he certainly had a good sense of humour.

The second driver who took me to SBS wanted to know what I’m doing there, and when I told him he went into overdrive with a tirade about Muslims, with a mixture of expletives, and had nothing good to say about them. I wasn’t able to get a word in.

The last driver was a Muslim from Iran who took me to the airport. He also wanted to know what I was doing at SBS; and consequently went into overdrive with a lecture about the bad western governments, the bad western culture and the bad western media, who, according to him, tell lies about Islam.

I will now publish what I was denied from bringing up at SBS. Also, I just had an e-mail from Nonie Darwish, USA who appeared on the show via telecast, complaining of being cut off by Jenny Brockie. See also my last posting, Terrorizing Muslim Women. By Nonie Darwish. – Werner

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For those who haven’t seen SBS "Insight," about “Islam” on TV, here it is again, but you have to scroll down a long way to YouTube. Click on this link - Australian Islamist Monitor, Islam Under Scrutiny.

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Can a good Muslim be a good Australian?

This question was forwarded to a friend who worked in Saudi Arabia for 20 years. The following is his reply, and my friend who reads the Koran said, “This is spot on!”

Theologically - no. . . Because his allegiance is to Allah, The moon god of Arabia.

Religiously - no . . . Because no other religion is accepted by His Allah except Islam . (Quran, 2:256)(Koran)

Scripturally - no. Because his allegiance is to the five Pillars of Islam and the Quran.

Geographically - no. . . Because his allegiance is to Mecca, to which he turns in prayer five times a day.

Socially – no. . . Because his allegiance to Islam forbids him to make friends with Christians or Jews.

Politically - no. . . Because he must submit to the mullahs (spiritual leaders), who teach annihilation of Israel and destruction of America, the great Satan , Australia and the rest of the free world.

Domestically - no. . . Because he is instructed to marry four Women and beat and scourge his wife when she disobeys him (Quran 4:34 )

Intellectually - no. . Because he cannot accept the Australian Constitution since it is based on Biblical principles and he believes the Bible to be corrupt.

Philosophically - no. . .Because Islam, Muhammad, and the Quran does not allow freedom of religion and expression. Democracy and Islam cannot co-exist. Every Muslim government is either dictatorial or autocratic. Footnote by my friend: In the Koran there isn’t anything mentioned about unconditional love and peace.

Spiritually – no. Because when we declare 'one nation under God,' The Christian's God is loving and kind, while Allah is NEVER referred to as Heavenly father, nor is he ever called love in the Quran's 99 excellent names.

Therefore, after much study and deliberation.... Perhaps we should be very suspicious of some of the MUSLIM community in this country. - - - They obviously cannot be both 'good' Muslims and good Australians. Call it what you wish it's still the truth. You had better believe it. The more who understand this, the better it will be for our country and our future. The religious war is bigger than we know or understand.

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Footnote: Some in the Muslims community have said they will destroy us from within. Islam is not only a religion - it’s a way of life under total dictatorial submission to Allah & Mohamed. SO FREEDOM IS NOT FREE.

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More interesting links.

Terrorizing Muslim Women.
A Lebanese Christian woman talks about Islam.
Germany Debates Muslim Immigration.
Islamic supremacist Reza Aslan spreads deceptions about Sharia
Three Things About Islam.
Check out what's happening in France today. Is this coming our way?

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My thought for today: - Werner
You can preach a better sermon with your life than with your lips. -Oliver Goldsmith