I understand the reasoning but c'mon tae fuck John.

🤬🤬🤬

#ScottishIndependence 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

"I don't think that is an argument that would have any legal force at the end of it, because it's not an agreed process.

“It might be what we would like to do – I would love Scotland to be independent today, but it's not going to deliver that process of Scotland becoming an independent country.”

John Swinney dismisses SNP members' rival independence plan | The National

thenational.scot/news/25368214…

You may think of Reform UK as just anti-immigration.

However it’s also anti-civil servants, anti- economic rules, anti-standards

In short, it’s anti-functioning government.

So what would a Reform UK govt look like?

eastangliabylines.co.uk/opinio…

NSFW 🔞

Sensitive content

This entry was edited (1 week ago)

In light of these draconian restrictions imposed by the UK and Australia upon people in the interest of "protecting children", I felt it might be interesting to talk about how the #DPRK protects children.

You find all these articles proclaiming everything from "rape is rampant in the DPRK" but "porn possession is punishable by death" and whatever other contradictory nonsense without a shred of proof (then turning around and saying, actually, violent crime is extremely rare in the DPRK — but only because punishments for it are so harsh, because that's how criminology works, don't look that up). However, if you actually read the DPRK's criminal code, pornography isn't in there at all. It is in China's, and other countries that prohibit porn, but not the DPRK.

And it stands to reason: Kim Jong-il was a big film buff, which definitely included some pornography, and contrary to popular belief, you absolutely can just walk into an app shop (yes, apps are sold in physical stores) in the DPRK and buy western films. I recall an anecdote from a recent tourist who got to talk with a young North Korean woman on the train, and asked if if she'd ever seen Shrek. Her English wasn't wonderful, but she told him to wait when the bus stopped, dashed out and into an app shop, and then dashed back, to show him that Shrek was now on her phone.

The difference, and the reason that porn doesn't need to be punishable by law, is because you'll have a rough time finding it. All media that you can purchase easily is media that is approved and sold by the state. The national intranet, too, is publicly owned.

That having been said, there are more direct ways that the DPRK protects children, which the UK and Australia do not do and probably would not even consider: Article 258 makes it illegal to neglect, abuse, or otherwise fail to protect and care for your children, elderly, or disabled family members (punishable by a sentence of labour of less than one year). Article 181 makes it illegal to compel a minor to work (similar sentencing).

In the DPRK, the principle role of children is to become educated, and it is the principle role of adults to form a society that is conducive to that education. If a child, therefore, gets their hands on pornography, it is not the fault of the child, but the fault of whoever was meant to be protecting them from it.

(Incidentally, the punishment for rape is between 5-10 years of labour at minimum, beaten out only by murder, which is always over 10 years, and crimes around terrorism and conspiracy against the state, which are the only ones which could land you the death penalty within regular criminal law.)

This entry was edited (1 week ago)
in reply to Comrade Ferret

Of course, I'm sure there are people who will say, like absolute madmen, "Yeah, but that's just what the law says, which is just propaganda for the people that the judicial system doesn't actually follow!" But you'll have to reconcile the fact that it's expected of every Korean citizen to study on a weekly basis and learn more about their country, history, how it works, and its place in the wider world; there's a good chance that anyone you talk to will be able to tell you off by heart what is in this post, and you would have to reconcile the idea that someone like this could watch supposed public executions for porn possession and still feel immense trust, loyalty, and pride in their country and state — which is nearly always the case; as it has been noted grudgingly even by western sources, the DPRK is a remarkably politically stable nation, much to their chagrin.

The First Stage In Suwayda Has Ended, And Hardly Anyone Can Be Declared The Winner southfront.press/the-first-sta…

Général Christophe Gomart (ancien patron du 13e RDP, puis du COS puis de la DRM) :


Christine #Deviers-Joncour Officiel
https://t.me/xtinedeviersjoncour/21850

"Ceux qui laissent entrer les #migrants sont complices de tous les #assassinats produits sur notre sol : ils doivent être jugés et condamnés, comme en temps de #guerre. C'est une #invasion bien orchestrée et subie : dénoncer l'#islamisme et vous étiez taxés de #raciste, voire envoyés devant les #tribunaux grâce aux lois votées par nos politiques. Ce qui confirme bien que, si les flux migratoires sont étroitement surveillés, leurs contrôles restent politiques.
Cette invasion de l’#Europe par les émigrants des pays musulmans et de l'Afrique Noire est programmée, contrôlée et acceptée. Rien du trafic #migratoire en #Méditerranée n’est ignoré des autorités françaises, militaires et civiles.
La Direction du Renseignement Militaire, qui est leader en France sur le Renseignement d’Origine Imagerie (ROIM) fourni par les satellites-espions militaires, a inauguré le 19 Janvier dernier un très discret Centre d’expertise, le CRGI (Centre de Renseignement Géospatial Interarmées).
Pluridisciplinaire, il intègre une trentaine de spécialistes civils, militaires et réservistes de haut niveau dont la principale fonction consiste à fusionner le renseignement recueilli par la DRM à partir d’une multitude de capteurs (interceptions, satellites, sources ouvertes, cybersurveillance, etc....).
C’est ainsi que la DRM peut présenter au Gouvernement français une situation précise de la présence des migrants subsahariens en Libye, ainsi que les identités exactes, les modes opératoires et les stratégies des « #passeurs » de migrants.
Ces informations sont transmises par la #France à l’état-major de la mission européenne en Méditerranée (Eunavfor Med) lancée en mai dernier.­­­
Le Renseignement français sait où les passeurs échangent leurs cargaisons humaines, où ils les hébergent.
­­ll les voit préparer les départs vers l’Europe depuis les plages de Tripolitaine et de Cyrénaïque, imposant aux migrants un processus immuable.
­­­Avant tout départ en mer, les passeurs appellent le Centre de Coordination Italien des Secours Maritimes, et c’est ainsi que les bateaux européens vont recueillir directement en mer les masses migratoires, pour les transporter à bon port, de crainte qu’ils ne s’égarent sur les côtes africaines…
Le GEOINT est devenu l’outil idéal pour valoriser des données massives géo-localisées. Il joue le rôle d’un accélérateur de prises de décisions en donnant une vision claire et complète aux chefs militaires et aux décideurs politiques.
L'Invasion n’avance pas au hasard : il n’y a aucun mystère, tout se sait ! On sait où les « passeurs » vont s’approvisionner en bateaux. On sait que la Turquie délivre de faux passeports et que les autorités de réception ferment les yeux....
Le Renseignement Français est donc capable de voir le trafic migratoire en Afrique jusque dans ses moindres détails, et il pourrait le voir également en Europe."
#politique

Pie theory taxresearch.org.uk/Blog/2025/0… Lisa Nandy, the wealth secretary, is on the morning media round. She is treating the world to a dose of pie theory. She has actually referred to the need "for a bigger pie." And pie theory has never and can never solve any known economic problem.

Forget about independence. Start eating processed foods again. Take drugs. Use AI. My future unless Swinney gets a grip. 🤬

"If there is a majority at [[Holyrood]], then the 2029 Westminster election becomes crucial – because if the [[SNP]] were to have leverage in a hung parliament, that in my view has always been the most likely way in which a referendum could happen, sooner rather than later.”

John Curtice on 'most likely' route to new Scottish independence vote

thenational.scot/news/25368264…

in reply to Rosemarie and Owen Kelly

I must ask why does he want pharmaceuticals made in the USA, when his health minister, Kennedy is cancelling research into vaccines, and Medicaid etc is all being cancelled in the USA? The population there won’t be able to afford anything for their health; unless they are the millionaires and billionaires.
Trump should not be able to hold the world to ransom while depriving his own citizens of healthcare & medications. I do hope the companies and governments involved will call this bluff.
Also, it’s unlikely a whole manufacturing set-up and all the ingredients, and the skilled workforce can be designed, built and in operation in a few months - given the specialist hygiene etc involved.

🎨 Design the future look of the euro!

The European Central Bank has launched a design contest for the new euro banknotes.

Open to graphic designers in the EU, submit your proposal for one of two themes:
🖼️ European culture
🌍 Rivers and birds

The designs – reflecting Europe’s shared cultural identity and natural heritage – will shape our currency for years to come!

🗓️ Share your ideas by 18 August 2025, 12:00 CET

🔗 More info: europa.eu/!cWfmdT

Rashid Khalidi on Genocide Complicity, From Columbia to the White House dropsitenews.com/p/rashid-khal…
in reply to Rosemarie and Owen Kelly

I’m not sharing because there isn’t a CW on the photo. But those people are clearly very hungry and haven’t eaten in quite a while. Netanyahu’s administration is so far beyond deliberate starvation and war crimes it beggars description; to read that Netanyahu is talking of a complete invasion of Gaza today is just intolerable. I just cannot grasp that the world is continuing to let this happen and take no actions against Netanyahu and his vile government.

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…