In the heart of Brooklyn, a 61-year-old author celebrates their birthday, reflecting on the neighborhood’s preserved historical architecture and cultural richness. They contrast this with Manhattan’s overdevelopment and corporate interests, which have led to a dominance of glass towers and a loss of diversity. Drawing from Jane Jacobs’ book, they discuss the importance of walkable cities and the impact of urban architecture on neighborliness and civic engagement. Amidst this, they express concern about the manipulation of protests and the targeting of Western liberties and symbols, urging readers to engage in peaceful actions, such as interfaith prayer and strengthening local communities, to resist external forces.
Meanwhile, a growing mistrust in the establishment is leading to a rise in parents refusing to vaccinate their children. This skepticism is fueled by perceived lies and propaganda surrounding the pandemic and the safety of vaccines. The author also touches on the war in Ukraine and the ongoing conflict in Gaza, suggesting that those responsible for these actions will not face meaningful consequences.
In the realm of media, “The Media Matrix,” a documentary, delves into the history and significance of media technology, from the printing press to the internet. It explores the influence wielded by press barons, the immense power of television, and the consolidation of media control. The documentary also addresses concerns surrounding social media addiction and the blurring of reality in today’s digital age, raising thought-provoking questions about the metaverse and its potential impact on human nature.
In geopolitical news, the US and Israel have been discussing plans to build a canal to rival the Suez Canal for over 50 years. The proposed Ben Gurion Canal Project would flow through the Gaza Strip, starting by the port city of Eilat in Israel, crossing the Jordanian border, and flowing through the Arabah Valley before entering the Dead Sea. Declassified documents reveal that the US Department of Energy had planned to create the canal by detonating 520 underground nuclear explosions throughout the Negev Desert. However, the plan was never executed due to anticipated objections from Arab nations and the challenge of relocating those from the Gaza Strip.
Down under, Australia’s approach to COVID-19 has shifted from strict suppression to a more laissez-faire strategy, resulting in a decline in life expectancy for the first time in over 30 years, according to a recent article. The country is currently experiencing its eighth wave of infections, and scientists caution that “living with COVID” means needlessly dying from it for those at risk. The prevalence of long COVID is also a concern, with many individuals experiencing debilitating symptoms for months or even years. The article calls for a reevaluation of Australia’s strategy and a focus on reducing illness and protecting vulnerable populations. It also highlights the importance of preventive measures, such as vaccines and improved indoor air quality, in preventing long COVID.
Sources
Australia's Let-It-Rip COVID Strategy Leads to Decline in Life Expectancy and Long-Term Health Concerns
We’ve moved on to passive controls, like airborne mitigation; the strategic use of high-quality masks when you can’t breathe clean air; the use of RAT tests to promote safe events; nimble vaccine strategies around the latest strain and widespread availability.
Source | Submitted by smitmaw
US and Israel Discuss Plans for Canal to Rival Suez Canal for Over 50 Years
The US and Israel have been discussing plans to build a canal to rival the Suez Canal for over 50 years.
Source | Submitted by westcoastjan
"The Media Matrix" Documentary Explores Impact of Media Technology on Society
Source | Submitted by nils-grimley
The Consequences of Lying for the Establishment
If the liars don’t want you to ask questions, it’s because they’re scared you might learn the truth. And the truth is that it’s lies all the way down.
Source | Submitted by nils-grimley
The Changing Architecture of Manhattan: A Reflection of Cultural Shifts and Control
The change in architecture has changed the culture, for the worse. Manhattan now is an alienating, fancy shopping mall, for mile upon mile, surmounted by sleek, unmemorable tower blocks no different from those that deface any midwestern US, or global, downtown. It is now a place of wealthy anonymity.
Source | Submitted by richcabot
