Foiling the Anti-Protest Sceptics: The Pro-Palestinian Sydney Harbour Bridge March
counterpunch.org/2025/08/06/fo…

"There were the doomsdayers, the moaners and, let’s face it, the ill-wishers, hoping that a march across one of the most famous bridges in Australia would not take place. Despite this, some 100,000 people attended the March for Humanity gathering which began in Sydney’s central business

On Starvation Hasbara
counterpunch.org/2025/08/06/on…

"August 2nd to 3rd 2025 marked the “holiday” of Tisha B’av. Jews observe it with readings of Lamentations, a part of the extended Torah, chronicling the history of one of many catastrophic destructions of the nation of Israel. Observant Jews fast on Tisha B’av, and the text of Lamentations includes detailed passages describing famine in More
The post On Starvation Hasbara appeared first on Counter"

Ukraine's anti-corruption crisis triggers protests, EU backlash: FT english.almayadeen.net/news/po…

Affordable Website Speed Tips to Elevate User Experience


Your website is the digital foundation of your business—your online shop, marketing tool, and customer service hub all in one. But if it loads slowly, it's failing to deliver. Visitors don't wait for sluggish sites—they move on.

The good news? You don't need a massive budget to make your site fast. With a few smart, low-cost tweaks, you can boost performance and keep users engaged. Here's how to optimize your website affordably, whether you're building it yourself or working with a cheap website designer.

Clear Out the Excess


Many small business websites are weighed down by unnecessary features—plugins, pop-ups, and animations that add bulk without value. These often pile up over time, slowing your site and frustrating users.

Review your site like a first-time visitor. Remove anything that doesn't serve a purpose. That homepage carousel you haven't updated in months? It's likely dragging performance. Those auto-playing ads? They're probably doing more harm than good.

When hiring a cheap website designer, ensure they prioritize clean, efficient design. A lean site loads faster and keeps visitors happy.

Optimize Images for Performance


Images are often the biggest culprits behind slow websites. Uploading high-resolution photos without resizing them can tank your load times.

Before uploading, resize images to their display size and compress them using free tools like TinyPNG, Squoosh, or ImageOptim. Use JPEG for photos and PNG for graphics with transparency. If your site only needs a 700px-wide image, don't upload a 4000px version.

For those on a cheap web design budget, this is a free way to improve speed. Optimized images mean faster pages and better user engagement.

Reduce Third-Party Scripts


Your site may load external content—analytics tools, chat widgets, social media feeds, or ad scripts. Each one adds a delay as it fetches data from another server.

If you're running multiple trackers or unused widgets, you're slowing your site for no reason. Stick to essentials like Google Analytics and one marketing tool. If that Facebook feed isn't driving clicks, cut it.

Use tools like GTmetrix or WebPageTest to identify scripts slowing your site. Eliminate the rest to keep things lean.

Pick a Speed-Focused Theme


Some themes look stunning but are packed with heavy scripts, animations, and features that hurt performance. A flashy demo can hide a bloated codebase.

For platforms like WordPress or Shopify, choose a lightweight theme like Astra, GeneratePress, or Neve. These are designed for speed without sacrificing style.

If you're working with a cheap website designer, ask about their theme choice. A good designer will prioritize performance over visual flair.

Upgrade Hosting on a Budget


If your site is still sluggish after optimization, your hosting might be the bottleneck. Cheap shared hosting works for small sites, but it can struggle as traffic grows.

You don't need a premium server. Affordable hosts like SiteGround, A2 Hosting, or Cloudways offer fast plans starting under $15/month. Check your Time to First Byte (TTFB)—if it's high, it's time to switch.

A small hosting upgrade can deliver big speed improvements without breaking the bank.

Implement Caching


Caching saves a pre-rendered version of your site, so it loads faster for visitors. It's a simple way to cut load times and reduce server strain.

For WordPress, free plugins like WP Super Cache or LiteSpeed Cache are easy to use and highly effective. Install one, enable it, and see instant results.

Streamline Your Code


Your site's CSS, JavaScript, and HTML files often include extra spaces, comments, or formatting that slow browsers down. Minifying removes this excess, and combining files reduces requests.

Plugins like Autoptimize or Fast Velocity Minify handle this automatically. Test changes to ensure your theme still works properly.

Limit Fonts


Custom fonts add personality but require downloads from servers like Google Fonts, slowing your site. Stick to one or two fonts, or use system fonts that load instantly.

Speed matters more than fancy typography. A fast site with clean fonts outperforms a slow one with elaborate designs.

Focus on Mobile Performance


Most visitors browse on mobile, often on slower networks or older devices. A site that's fast on desktop might lag on a phone.

Use Google's PageSpeed Insights or Mobile-Friendly Test to check mobile performance. They'll flag issues like oversized images or blocking scripts. Fixing these ensures a smooth experience for all users.

Cheap web design should prioritize mobile without cutting corners. It's about delivering what users need.

Speed is User Satisfaction


A fast website lets visitors shop, browse, or contact you without frustration. A slow one sends them away. Speed isn't just a technical detail—it's the core of a great user experience.

You don't need deep pockets to make your site fast. Trim clutter, optimize images, and use free tools. If you're working with a cheap website designer, ensure they focus on performance.

Run your site through PageSpeed Insights to spot weak spots. Make small, steady tweaks. A fast site keeps visitors and drives growth.

Remember When the Democrats Lost the Elections Because of Fears About Inflation? The NYT Doesn’t
counterpunch.org/2025/08/06/re…

"As usual, the New York Times gets things exactly wrong in a piece headlined “Trump’s Tariffs are Making Money. That May Make Them Hard to Quit.” The gist of the article is that the tariffs are on a path to raise close to $400 billion a year, and possibly

GLUSCHITZ Mathias, tailleur, anarchiste autrichien réfugié à Genève
anarchiv.wordpress.com/2025/08…

"Ministère de l’Intérieur Police des chemins de fer Commissaire spécial d’Annemasse Haute-Savoie N° 1535 Anarchistes GLUSCHITZ Mathias Annemasse, le 17 …Lire la suite →"

U.S. Atomic Bombings Didn’t Save Lives or End the War
counterpunch.org/2025/08/06/u-…

"August 6 and 9 are the 80th anniversaries of the U.S. atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. The killing of 140,000 civilians at Hiroshima was the effect of detonating a 60-million-degree Celsius explosion (ten thousand times hotter than the surface of the sun) over the city. Richard Rhodes’ The Making of the Atomic Bomb reported, More
The

Children of Gaza: Emaciated Bodies, Sunken Eyes, and Lives Ravaged by Zionist Starvation saba.ye/en/news3529113.htm
in reply to kixik

Neonmodem looks really cool and support multiple backend. TUI is cool and definitely earns its place. Excellent for my old laptop.

But on the other hands, I wish we have a proper complicated non electron liked desktop gui. My browser probably has 1000+ tabs. So able to open multiple threads are must. But building this sophisticated desktop app is hard. I am really being spoiled by open source apps. And I am always thankful to devs' hardwork.

On Creating a Cover for Genocide
counterpunch.org/2025/08/06/on…

"In July 2025, the Massachusetts legislature’s Judiciary Committee heard testimony on a bill to make it the 38th state to follow the federal government, 45 other countries (almost all of them in the global North), and more than 50 U.S. local governments in adopting a strange definition of antisemitism. In 2016, the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA), a group More
The

Engineering Wonder in Motion: The Enduring Legacy of the Ferris Wheel


Introduction


Rising like a sentinel on the skyline of amusement parks, the Ferris wheel is more than just a rotating structure—it is a mechanical icon that encapsulates the very spirit of vertical leisure. Among all amusement rides, it offers a paradoxical blend of serenity and elevation, of motion and pause. From historical prototypes to modern mega-wheels, this engineering marvel has retained its charm while adapting to evolving design paradigms and safety standards.

The Origin of Vertical Rotation


The inception of the Ferris wheel traces back to the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago, where engineer George Washington Gale Ferris Jr. unveiled the original structure as America’s answer to the Eiffel Tower. Measuring 264 feet in height and carrying 36 wooden cars, each capable of holding 60 people, the design was nothing short of audacious for its time.

The prototype wheel was a triumph of structural integrity and rotary engineering. Built using carbon steel and riveted joints, it resisted not only its own torsional stress but also the skepticism of contemporary architects. This inaugural model laid the groundwork for the global proliferation of the Ferris wheel in urban and recreational contexts.


Structural Components and Mechanical Design


A modern Ferris wheel is a synthesis of axial symmetry and dynamic balance. At its core is a massive central axle supported by two robust towers. The wheel rotates via motorized drive systems that typically use electric motors connected to gear trains or hydraulic actuators, depending on the model’s scale.

Key structural elements include:

  • Spokes and rim: Typically constructed from tensile cables and tubular steel, ensuring reduced weight and improved tensile strength.
  • Gondolas: Suspended by gravity-based pivot points, these passenger cabins remain level throughout the rotation due to centripetal regulation.
  • Drive mechanism: Often outfitted with redundant systems to ensure safe deceleration and emergency stops.

Some high-capacity models incorporate frequency converters and programmable logic controllers (PLCs) to manage rotational speed and loading cycles with precision. Safety interlocks and overload sensors are also integrated to comply with international standards such as ASTM F2291 and EN 13814.

Spatial Impact and Themed Integration


As one of the most recognizable amusement rides, the Ferris wheel is often the focal point of a park’s layout. Its towering presence serves dual purposes: offering panoramic vistas and acting as a spatial anchor that enhances navigability within the park.

Designers increasingly employ themed gondolas, LED-integrated spokes, and immersive audio systems to align with branding goals and customer experience metrics. For instance, observation wheels in metropolitan settings now feature climate-controlled cabins, touchscreen tour guides, and luxury seating to convert them into quasi-touristic capsules.

The Role of Material Science


The reliability of the Ferris wheel depends heavily on advanced material selection. Galvanized steel, marine-grade aluminum, and polycarbonate enclosures dominate the construction landscape. Anti-corrosion coatings are applied to protect against environmental degradation, particularly in coastal or humid regions.

Welding methods such as TIG (Tungsten Inert Gas) and robotic MIG welding are employed to maintain dimensional consistency and fatigue resistance. Structural simulations using Finite Element Analysis (FEA) software are now a mandatory part of the design validation process.

Safety Protocols and Redundancy Systems


Although Ferris wheels operate at relatively low rotational speeds, safety is paramount due to their vertical orientation and high passenger volume. Operators must adhere to rigorous inspection protocols that include:

  • Daily pre-operation checks of mechanical, electrical, and control systems
  • Ultrasonic testing of weld joints
  • Load testing of braking systems
  • Real-time monitoring via sensor arrays and automated diagnostics

Advanced installations also include backup power supplies and emergency descent procedures, such as manual cranking systems or auxiliary drives. Emergency egress platforms and intercom systems in each gondola provide additional layers of operational safety.

Economic Viability and ROI


A Ferris wheel offers considerable return on investment (ROI) due to its broad demographic appeal and high throughput. It operates efficiently in a variety of settings—theme parks, shopping malls, waterfronts, and festivals. Operators often recoup installation costs through diversified revenue streams, including:

  • Standard ride tickets
  • VIP gondola rentals
  • Corporate branding and sponsorships
  • Onboard merchandise and refreshments

The longevity of the structure—often exceeding 30 years with proper maintenance—further supports its financial sustainability.

Ferris Wheel vs. Other Amusement Rides


Unlike high-thrill amusement rides such as roller coasters or pendulum swings, the Ferris wheel offers a tranquil, scenic experience. This quality makes it accessible to a wider audience, including seniors, young children, and those averse to intense motion.

While it lacks the adrenaline factor, its visual dominance and experiential appeal provide intangible value that high-speed attractions often cannot replicate. Moreover, the Ferris wheel's compatibility with tight footprints and modular construction makes it a flexible asset for parks of all sizes.

Innovations on the Horizon


Recent technological advancements are redefining what Ferris wheels can offer. Concepts under development include:

  • Augmented Reality (AR) windows for educational or entertainment overlays
  • Dynamic lighting sequences controlled via AI algorithms
  • Self-cleaning cabin materials using photocatalytic coatings
  • Solar-assisted energy systems for eco-conscious operation

The integration of smart systems enables predictive maintenance, reduced energy consumption, and customized user experiences.

Conclusion


The Ferris wheel remains a quintessential symbol in the pantheon of amusement rides. Its graceful rotation belies the complexity of its mechanical heart, while its adaptability ensures it remains relevant across generations. In a world increasingly dominated by virtual experiences, the Ferris wheel continues to deliver an elemental joy: the simple wonder of rising above the ground, suspended between sky and structure.

“Out, Damned Spot!” The Actively Complicit Try to Launder a Genocide
counterpunch.org/2025/08/06/ou…

"A week ago, a grotesque parade of op-ed writers, pundits, and politicians who have publicly supported, justified, or excused the war on Gaza for more than a year and a half began a series of predictable contortions in hopes of escaping what I am going to call their “active complicity” in a genocide: neither the direct

Amid Massacres and Blockade, Iranian Red Crescent Delivers Food Aid to Gaza iranpress.com/content/308716

TURQUIE. Les Kurdes de Dersim souhaitent que le DEM Partie joue un rôle plus actif
kurdistan-au-feminin.fr/2025/0…

"TURQUIE / KURDISTAN – Les Kurdes de Dersim font confiance au Mouvement de libération du Kurdistan, mais souhaitent que le DEM Parti se concentre davantage sur les problèmes locaux. Les habitants de Dersim, dans le contexte de la nouvelle phase qui a commencé avec l’appel d’Abdullah

As Gaza Starved, NPR’s Coverage Expanded but Didn’t Get Any Better
counterpunch.org/2025/08/06/as…

"Before the third week of July, when mass-starvation alarms finally started sounding, only a tiny minority of Americans were focused on the crimes against humanity that Israel was committing in Gaza. CounterPunch readers had long known what was going on, of course, but most Americans who depend on establishment media,

An Important New Book on the Praxis of Social Ecology
counterpunch.org/2025/08/06/an…

"Proponents of the theory and praxis of social ecology – the holistic approach to reharmonizing society and nature originated by social theorist Murray Bookchin during the 1960s – ’90s – have long sought new ways to introduce those ideas to a wider audience. While Bookchin’s writings offer an exceptional depth of analysis that has thoroughly

Trump’s Tariffs Come for Your Morning Wake-Up Routine
counterpunch.org/2025/08/06/tr…

"On August 6 — unless he chickens out — US president Donald Trump will impose a 50% tariff on American buyers of Brazilian coffee. Brazilian coffee isn’t the only coffee Americans find themselves paying exorbitant taxes on. Vietnamese, Indonesian, Indian, Colombian, Nicaraguan, and European Union-produced coffee just got hit with tariffs (paid

I have signed this petition, together with hundreds of other experienced correspondents, photographers and media professionals. We demand immediate authorization to enter Gaza and report independently. freedomtoreport.org/
This entry was edited (1 week ago)

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Tiny city, big impact: Arxan emerges as cross-cultural bridge tehrantimes.com/news/516452/Ti…

My 9-year-old has been tech-free since December. It’s been the same for my 12-year-old at home, but his middle school had Chromebooks. I sent him to a tech-free boarding school in May. These two boys are discovering themselves. They have made good friends, developed hobbies, and taken on responsibility, forging a revolution for tweens to play and hang IRL. They just had a video call together with better interactions than I can recall. They are on the right path. TYFYC, @adam
in reply to relentless_eduardo

ok, yes, I concede your point. Assuming you know what I mean by tech-free equaling device-free and PC-free and Chromebook/Macbook-free, PlayStation and Nintendo free, and any of the like, how would you suggest I describe this transformation in my children’s lives? Mastadon only allows for a certain number of characters and I am doing my best to fit in, make my point, and express my gratitude.
This entry was edited (1 week ago)

Cornerstone Roundtable: Tom Luongo, Alex Krainer and Matt Ehret (Is China our Enemy?) matthewehret.substack.com/p/co…
in reply to Tyler, Pitiful Fool

This one goes out to Big Balls and young White men everywhere.

Death Cab for Cutie - You Are a Tourist

youtu.be/qkk5wViJo-I

This entry was edited (1 week ago)

reshared this

You did this, #Netanyahu.

You are a destroyer of cities.

A killer of people.

A murderer of children.

Have you no pity?

Have you no shame?

#Genocide #Palestine

theguardian.com/world/2025/aug…

Exceptionally large Roman shoes discovered at Magna fort near Hadrian’s Wall | Archaeology News Online Magazine
#England share.google/pcfItXmrPRgtNfETM

counterpunch.org/2025/08/06/ou…

This entry was edited (1 week ago)

turns out that Ubers are upsettingly expensive ways of getting around cities, so if you’ve liked the work I’ve been doing this last few weeks a Ko-Fi or PayPal donation would be a great boon

you can support me via PayPal (paypal.me/brandonobrien), Patreon (patreon.com/therisingtithes), or Ko-Fi (ko-fi.com/therisingtithes)!

Are you feeling bad about yourself? Your country? Your economic system?

You can end all of that RIGHT NOW by just blaming the Jews!

Wartime blues? Blame the jews!
Got a soft willy? Blame the Israelis!

Stop following the money and reading conspiracy theories; make all your research start and end with Israel! Save time, money and most of all, make your problems their problems!