Reanimated Residue: News and politics

Bin Laden Arrested at Apec?

Fri, 07 Sep 2007 08:30:17 GMT

Would APEC security notice if Osama Bin Laden arrived at APEC in the Canadian diplomatic convoy? Apparently not.

Okay, so it wasn’t exactly Osama Bin Laden, but rather a popular Australian media personality dressed as the world’s most wanted man, who managed to infiltrate the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) security red-zone before being arrested 10 metres from the Sydney's InterContinental Hotel, where American President George Bush has been staying during the summit.

The stunt made world headlines when several team members of the successful Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) satire television program, Chaser’s War on Everything, were arrested and charged under section 19 of the APEC Meeting Act 2007 on Thursday September 6th, after being waved through security checkpoints with a fake motorcade consisting of three hire cars flying Canadian flags accompanied by a motorcycle escort and security guards on foot.

Canada was chosen by the Chaser team because they thought it was a country that would not be heavily scrutinized by police in a comedy sketch intending to mock the overkill that is APEC security. But the lads got more material for their efforts than expected as they were welcomed through two security checkpoints with team members wearing no more than an “insecurity” id blatantly stating the convoy as a joke.

The Chaser crew was denied media accreditation prior to the summit, and in an article published on September 2nd, executive producer and cast member Julian Morrow warned, “We're hoping at least three of the team will be arrested,” in plans to “play with APEC”. Morrow was among the 11 detained, which also included the 3 hire car drivers. NSW Police Commissioner Andrew Scipione says The Chaser team were specifically told not to conduct “dangerous stunts” during APEC week. Speaking for the first time since his arrest Morrow said, "lucky it was us and not Al Qaeda."

The skit has thrown doubt over the effectiveness of the AU$170 million security operation which has had large portions of the Sydney CBD in lockdown since the start of the conference on September 2nd. It involves some 3500 officers, including riot police and military personnel. Authorities and organisers are in desperate denial hoping to save face over the bungle, with Foreign Affairs Minister Alexander Downer quoted as saying “The point is they were in any case arrested, so I think the security works”, while NSW Police Minister David Campbell said, “I think this reinforces that APEC security has been successful by the mere fact that 11 people have been arrested”.

What both fail to mention is that “When The Chaser reached the perimeter of what they thought was the APEC restricted zone, they voluntarily turned around,” said The Chaser in a statement released today. It was only when Chaser comedian Chas Licciardello emerged from the vehicle wearing a long white robe and fake beard stating “I'm an important world leader. Why don't I have a seat at the APEC table?” that Police finally realised and moved in to conduct arrests.

Also revealed yesterday, two police identification passes were incorrectly issued to staff members of the government Opposition which theoretically gave them unrestricted access to all APEC secure zones. The passes were eventually revoked and new passes issued in replacement, but again the error confirms uncertainty in what is the biggest security operation the country has ever seen.

The Chaser team was released on bail to appear in court on October 4th and face a maximum of six months jail for entering a secure area.

Steve Irwin – The Crocodile Hunter Dies

Mon, 04 Sep 2006 13:25:27 GMT

Australian naturalist and TV icon, Steve Irwin, “The Crocodile Hunter” died earlier today while filming off the North Queensland coast.

Irwin was pierced in the chest by a stingray barb while filming an underwater segment for his daughter’s new TV show, called Ocean’s Deadliest, at Batt Reef, off Port Douglas in North Queensland. Collapsing at approximately 11am on Monday September 4th 2006, he received CPR for almost one hour. When the emergency helicopter arrived at the scene, both his pulse and breathing had stopped. It is believed he suffered cardiac arrest, however further assessment will be carried out at a post-mortem examination in Carins. Death from contact with a stingray barb is considered “highly unusual”.

Born Stephen Robert "Steve" Irwin in Melbourne on 22 February 1962, he moved to Queensland at a young age, where his parents operated the “Queensland Reptile and Fauna Park”. Beginning his career as a crocodile trapper, he took over the park in 1991, renaming it “Australia Zoo”. He met Terri in 1992 and their honeymoon was spent trapping crocodiles, which became the pilot episode of the highly successful TV series, The Crocodile Hunter. The show aired across 122 countries worldwide.

Though highly revered in his home country for tireless environmental preservation efforts and promotion of his state and nation, Irwin’s career was not without controversy.

In January 2004, Steve Irwin hit international headlines following a live show at Australia Zoo, in which he held his one month old baby boy under one arm, while hand-feeding a chicken to “Murray” the crocodile. This became known as the “Baby Bob Incident” and was compared to Michael Jackson dangling his son outside a window in Germany. His actions were cause for concern amongst child welfare and animal rights groups, along with much criticism from the general public. Irwin escaped charges but as a direct result, new laws were established in February 2005 which prevented children or untrained adults from entering crocodile enclosures.

In June 2004 Irwin again found himself in the media spotlight while filming the Ice Breaker documentary for US television channel Animal Planet. It was alleged that Irwin had closely interacted with several Antarctic wildlife - a federal and international crime attracting fines of up to $1 million dollars and two years jail. The Australian Antarctica Division of the federal government investigated the footage but found no grounds for charges to be made.

Beyond all his unconventional antics, Steve was a well-loved personality, national ambassador, and highly respected conversationalist. He appeared in the movies Dr. Dolittle 2 with Eddie Murphy; Wiggly Safari in the company of popular children entertainers, The Wiggles; and his own feature film, The Crocodile Hunter: Collision Course. His exuberant personality attracted a strong fan base around the world, with children his most loved audience.

In conjunction with his work at Australia Zoo, Steve Irwin established Wildlife Warriors Worldwide, International Crocodile Rescue, and the Australian Wildlife Hospital. His conservation work was not just centered on crocodiles, having made noteworthy contributions to the preservation of many other endangered species, including koalas and wombats. He urged Australians to be aware of strict quarantine requirements, for the benefit of native ecology and wildlife, in an advertising campaign for the Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service. He was honored with a Centenary Medal in 2001, for his service to global conservation and Australian tourism.

Steve Irwin was 44 years old and is survived by his wife, Terri; daughter, Bindi, aged 8; and son, Robert, aged 2.

Shapelle Corby - Final Appeal

Mon, 21 Aug 2006 00:19:09 GMT

Further links between Australian baggage handlers and drug smuggling have surfaced during a court case involving a plan to smuggle cocaine from Argentina to Australia. The case offers more proof towards claims by accused drug smuggler Schapelle Corby, that baggage handlers were possibly responsible for planting 4.1 kg of marijuana in her luggage during a flight from Sydney to Bali in October of 2004.

Corby faces her final appeal, for freedom from her twenty year sentence, to the Indonesian Supreme court on Friday August 25th 2006. Her sentence was recently reduced by two months in celebration of Indonesia's Independence day. The trial is Schapelle's last opportunity to prove her innocence before filing for clemancy from the Indonesian president Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono. The prospect of a prisoner exchange, which would have her serve the remainder of her sentence in Australia, has not been received with open arms by the Corby front. They claim that should she be transferred to an Australian jail, her avenues for appeal and proving her innocence could be forfeited.

Visit the official Free Schapelle website for further information and updates.

Pacific Sky Cruises Revealed - A History of Concealing Violent Crime

Sat, 24 Jun 2006 16:54:35 GMT

Is a person’s life worth the reputation of a company or the loss of your job?

The answer should be simple, but in the case of 42 year old Dianne Brimble, it seems this was not the case. Mrs Brimble, mother of three, was the victim of a violent sexual assault which resulted in her death aboard the P&O luxury cruise liner Pacific Sky on September 24th 2002.

In an interview with former security staff of Pacific Sky, The Sydney Morning Herald reported a disturbing history of cover-ups aboard the passenger liner. The two former security officers revealed several violent crime scenes had been stripped clean, and remained unreported to authorities, in an effort to maintain passenger perception of the holidays as free from the troubles, worries, and cares of everyday life. On a number of occasions, protests by security staff were disregarded, and the responsibilities of their position were admonished.

This mentality, they believe, was the influencing factor in the decision to allow four alleged perpetrators of Mrs Brimble’s death to leave their cabin, in turn, removing important evidence relating to the incident. The coroner's inquest suggests confirmation of these allegations.

Is life worth so little, that a pay packet can overcome the obligations of respect for another human being who has been so severely demoralised? Has general society become so horrifyingly self-absorbed? There is absolutely no excuse for delaying the responsibility of reporting such crimes … and there should be no honour perceived in revealing such evidence, only after such an act is uncovered to the public.

Where's the Ecstacy for Michele Leslie?

Tue, 08 Nov 2005 00:26:48 GMT

So I supported Shapelle Corby's plight (and still do) when she pled innocent to possession of 4.1 kilograms of Marijuana while entering Indonesian customs during October 2004. Her struggle is high profile, but what of Michelle Leslie, the young Australian model busted in possession of 2 ecstacy tablets when she was searched and arrested at the entrance to a rave party on the night of August 21st 2005?

Many opponents to Corby's innocence would often argue that Shapelle was only getting such wide spread support from the Australian public and media because she is a "young and pretty woman" - okay then, if that is so true, where is the mass rallies for Michelle Leslie - a young girl who was paid for being pretty? Some would argue that she has made an effort to keep her story out of the spotlight - but come on ... do people truely believe that Shapelle was deliberately parading herself around that open Denpasar prison cell on purpose for extra publicity? Do people really believe she had any choice of how she would appear on TV or in the Newspapers? Strangely, though Michelle is supposedly living in the same conditions as Corby, Im yet to see one photo of her without makeup and a few tears rolling desperately down her cheeks - Im yet to see one photo of her behind cell bars. No, Im not trying to start some wild conspiracy theory that the girl hasnt actually been arrested - Im just trying to draw some parallels between the cases of these two women, so that maybe some of Corby's opponents can put their stupid argument to rest that Shapelle's supporters were only looking at her face and not the mounds of evidence in support of her defense.

So putting it in another light, Ms Leslie has appeared just as pretty as ever to the public eye, at first instance she claimed the eckies were not hers, but merely that she was just holding them in her handbag for a friend. It was only after her blood tests showed a positive result that she claimed they were to support her addiction to Ritilin medication which was prescibed for her ADHD condition. Possession could see her behind bars for 15 years ... addiction could have her out in 3 months. Okay, fair enough, maybe the girl is trying to go for a better deal in a court system where true "justice" is questionable ... however wouldnt you say Corby had a similar option also, but she never gave into it? Michelle may be attempting to bargain out of 15 years ... but Shapelle never bargained to avoid the death penalty - and from the day of her arrest her story has never changed.

Maybe this time its a case of Michelle Leslie is too pretty for the support of jealous Aussie housewives - or maybe its just that the evidence presented tells the story for itself.

Terror Suspects Arrested

Mon, 07 Nov 2005 22:31:26 GMT

A positive development in light of my suspicions yesterday ... that nothing was to come of the urgent amendments made last week to the anti-terrorism act, which was made after recalling the senate to parliment at a cost of $50,000. Reported in this morning's SMH article, Raids 'disrupt' terror attacks, 15 arrests took place after police stormed the homes of terror suspects in both Sydney and Melbourne at approximately 2.30am last night. Contrary to the amendments made, none of the suspects have apparently been charged with the preparation of any specific attacks, but rather relate to "directing" and "membership of a proscibed terrorist organisation". The SMH reports that any potential terror targets are still unknown. The lawyer for the defendants claims that rushed changes to the bill had nothing to do with these arrests ... but I would tend to put my wavering faith in the NSW Police Commisioner who insists the amendments were "useful" in the success of this operation. The accused are expected to appear in court today and the prosecution plan to oppose any bail requests.

Terrorist Threat Propaganda

Mon, 07 Nov 2005 02:10:26 GMT

How did I guess that the "potential terrorist threat" announced by the Australian government last week was all a load of hogwash? As soon as the threat was declared I was immediately wary of Howards motives - my personal PROPAGANDA alert system was sounding desperately at 120 decibels in my head. There was no accident in his announcement ... the clues were all in the timing and the details provided ... it most certainly was not a warning for our protection - my god, no specifics were released bar "various potential targets in Melbourne and Sydney were filmed by suspected terrorist groups". Well then ... which ones?!? Will I be safe when I want to go shopping? How many public places do you plan on staying away from until this "threat" has passed? And hey, when will it have passed anyway? pfft ... regardless, the general terrorism threat level remained unchanged. It is so obvious that this was an extremely calculated move by the government to garner immediate favour, of opposition politians and the public, for its new counter-terrorism legislation which Howard had hoped to have passed through parliment on Melbourne Cup day.

To Howards dismay several Senators had insisted on further discussion (and ammendments) on the proposed bill (of which they werent even allowed to view the entire documents) before they were to make any final decision. For these new laws to be implemented quickly and without contest, required desperate measures by Howard. It was essential to instill further fear and desperation in the public eye and in politicians who were sitting on the fence - and I honestly believe many Aussies have fallen for it. Yes, I understand that in this case he simply wanted one word in the current bill to be altered from "the" to "a". Like a jury in court being asked to disregard a statement that may wrongfully bias their opinion, the Australian people will likely remember this "threat" when asked if they want new anti-terrorism legislation passed promptly and without question ... they will put little thought into the imposition on our civil liberties or whether it contradicts the Australian constitution. This move has "softened the blow" ... made the necessity of the new laws easier to accept. But even the change of one word can have serious consequences - just think about it - why else would they have needed to rush this "minor" amendment through? I know you are asking how the change of one word can be so serious ... quite simply, "the" requires legal prosecuters to isolate a specific terrorist action (right down to where, why and how the event would take place) while "a" is ambiguous. The new wording is all emcompassing - now suspicion, but no specifics, is all the proof required for an arrest and charge.

According to many liberal politians, the announcement hadnt jeopardised any investigation - this is of course debatable, almost laughable - how stupid do they think people are? (Well Yes, I will concur, from my experience a wide majority of people are pretty fuking dumb and apathetic) ... Anyway, with even the little tit-bits of information that was provided, dont you think these potential terrorists would have been alerted immediately?!? Lets take a quick look at just some of the info provided ... Theyd been questioned in June 05, they were from Melbourne, and had filmed potential targets last year ... just those morsels alone would have easily alerted the suspects, prompting them to pack up and move on to a new address. Strangely, it was as though the announcement was precisely detailed to warn them specifically - makes me think there was absolutely no new intelligence of a "specific terror threat" at all ... that it was all fabrication ... an ulterior motive was put in play through the media.

Ruddock's admission yesterday that arrests were not expected, simply confirms my original suspicions that the whole debacle of urgency was premeditated bullshit by the government. I put off writing this very same post last week - I tried to put faith in Howards foresight which I believe has been fairly accurate on occasion (for example, the Tampa fiasco) ... but now I know for certain that my 'propaganda' alarm had been sounding for good reason ... strange how quickly the new laws have been passed by parliment. SMH reported on the Features of New Anti-Terrorism Laws last week.

I dont really see how these new laws are going to make much difference anyway. Police are often just as apathetic as the Australian public, preferring to raid homes for bongs or fine little old ladies for jay-walking. When it comes down to the nitty gritty, previous laws were sufficient for persuing and prosecuting any real dangers from terrorism, but its nature seemingly makes it too difficult to do so while ensuring our civil rights in the meantime - police cannot perceive any other methods of intervention ... put simply, they dont know any better. The new laws give police more avenues and excuses to carry-out & justify wrongful or pedantic harrassment and arrests while the real dangerous criminals will continue to walk free. Reminds me of our local dog-catcher who was too scared to impound the meanacing Alsatian or Rottweiler roaming threateningly about the streets, but would always target the same old stupid and harmless Cocker Spaniel & Pekingese. Also, police are often used as a tool in neighbourhood squabbles - anonymous hotlines are an easy avenue for utilising police powers against someone who is simply not popular within the local community - thing is, I think the police actually enjoy being used this way ... we've just handed them another boon.

Deviant Art - Important News

Thu, 04 Aug 2005 08:45:08 GMT

DeviantArt is the largest international virtual art community on the internet with over 1.5 million members, and over 14 million 'deviations' (artworks). Millions of dollars worth of artwork is hosted on the site, including work from both unknown and celebrity artists. I have been showcasing my artwork on DA since the 22nd March 2005. Recently, a major scandal has rocked the community, unfortunately bringing future success of the site into question. Due to attempts by the new administration to censor members, and threats to ban members who are concerned about this issue, I have been forced to mirror my current DeviantArt journal here on my blog space.

PoizonMyst DeviantArt Journal - Yellow Fever - Dated Aug 2nd 2005

This journal will be constantly updated with EVIDENCE as more information becomes available. Please check the section "Damning Evidence Edits" for new updates. This journal is mirrored.

CURRENT ISSUES

Though I have only been here a few months I have come to love, and ultimately enjoy, this 'community' for the values and possibilities that were offered here. I had not been motivated to create art for many years after starting a family, yet it was the encouragement of the members, opportunities for improvement, and the chance to showcase my work (where it may otherwise be sitting in a sketchbook in the corner largely unnoticed), which inspired and motivated me to enjoy my creative talents again. The Deviant Art community has revived my long lost life - I spend most of my waking hours here.

Originally I posted the following statements in a few forum threads under my husband's empty account, for fear that I may be banned under the new 'justice system' being implemented here at Deviant Art. I have since discovered that so many are speaking out in this fashion, that the new corporate administration would have no community left if they decided to martyr everyone. And anyway, if they do - that's not the type of community I would be willing to stay a part of anyhow - it's against so many of my principles. It is because of these principles that I feel it is important for me to express my speculation on the events that resulted in jark's removal on July 29th 2005.

After reading numerous journals and comments on the subject (including deleted material), delving here and there for clues as to what happened, and the eerie absence of any official notice from the current admin to quash any theories and allegations .... I can only conclude that the real story is the one that's been hinted to us from within the ranks of the staff who have resigned (both voluntarily and forced) in protest to the decline of community spirit amoungst the new admin, in favour of um ... less desirable characteristics.

A good look at some of the the smooth-tongued talk by spyed over the last few months, also seems to suggest this story. Have a read of his recent journals ... they seem innocent enough ... but are they? I dont particularly like some of the images that come into my mind when reading this entry.

The words & statements he chooses are rather alarming in light of new events .... "corporate"; "pure capitalist democracy"; " technology company"; "most valued contributor to a capitalist society is the entrepreneur" (of which he admits to being one himself); "we must enhance deviantART with a system to empower the leaders."; even the title of the journals "Scaling down the Deviants"; and it goes on & on - all under the guise of making changes to better the community - very charismatic! In fact in his own journal he also states ....

"Today deviantART is what we call a flat community. It's theoretically as raw and fair as any social system can possibly be."

So why the hell change it so dramatically?? :| Why? Because a 'raw and fair' system does not truely fit the captialist model. Sure America is a "capitalist democracy" .... but it also has the Pariot Acts. Thats right - OBEY or FACE THE CONSEQUENCES. Have I gone too far? In one forum post he even talks of the "groups project" as being "code named" - sounds like a military operation.

Remember when, not that long ago, we were all asked to agree to an amended 'Submission Policy'? Remember how many were vilified for suggesting that maybe this policy had a hidden agenda? Who's journal of 'explanation' were we often referred to by Submission Policy devotees? Yes, it was the ever persuasive glib of spyed whom we were forced to take as gospel on the 'good-nature' of the 'team' who ran DA. All the 'paranoia' back then, doesnt seem so far from reality now, does it?

DAMNING EVIDENCE EDITS

This section is updated as more information becomes available.

Edit 1st Aug: :devspyed: has offered a Response to Recent Events - basically a history lesson (which does not concur with the online encyclopedia, Wikipedia) that does not provide any answers, and also contradicts itself. Again he tries to pull the wool over our eyes with the statement ... "jark and I have worked together on deviantART from day 1." (His profile says July 15th 2000 - as does jark) However evidence at this site suggests otherwise - Aug 2000 & Dec 2001 ... No spyed no mccann ... Hmmm, curious indeed.

Edit 2nd Aug: Check out this Audio Interview with spyed ... is he being sincere? Remember that spyed has often reiterated to members that DA is lucky to stay afloat each month. Spyed indicates in this interview that DA is quite stable with the current income base it receives. (Update Aug 12th: On a side note, I'm also curious about the psychologists who have been analysing our activities on DA - Do you remember ever agreeing to be part of an anthropological psychoanalysis study? No? Neither do I.)

Edit 3rd Aug: Some Damning Evidence?

Edit 3rd Aug: How Odd Is This? Evidence spyed has lied about his join date, and that he has the ability to cover it up. Wouldnt it be nice to have the power to alter history when it suits you?

Edit 4th Aug: A great place to look for current information is the journal of bookdiva - who is jark's mother. She links to two leaked emails from jark - This One leaked on an anonymous blog space addressed to mccann (mirrored at the T52 site) ... and This One (new leak) addressed to spyed. deviot also contains other intriguing information and links. Jark's Latest Journal has some interesting information. And while your at it, you may like to look at mirrorkills journal A Cold Day For DA which provides some insight into the administration's future plans for deviant's who continue to ask questions. I seriously suggest all deviant's who support the yellow movement should BACKUP their gallery and any wanted journals on their harddrive.

Edit Aug 4th: In case deviot's journal is deleted, here is an offsite copy of the new leaked email ... The 2nd Leaked Email.
It seems the servers at the webarchive have come under some strain of late and often go offline. Anyway, if you can access the site, This screen shot has come to my attention. Please note, that this screenshot was archived on 31st March 2001. The screenshots I provided on Aug 1st at the same site, are archived Aug 2000 and Dec 2001, respectively.
An old journal by jark - Behind the Scenes dated Feb 18, 2002 provides an insight into DA staff roles.
I believe in yesterday by brihana25 - contains interesting research into the past and present of DA. This detailed journal entry also explains how spyed's join dates were able to be changed (see 'How Odd Is This' - Aug 3rd above). It also offers information relating to DMusic, and how in the early days both sites mirrored entries and member information. (Update Aug 12th: MikeyLove provides a response to brihana25's journal with, A response to some stinky bullshit.)
Spyed's Member Page on DMusic. - As a non-member you can scroll through his journal entries. The first entry he made pertaining to Deviantart was on Sep 8th 2000. With a personality such as spyed you would think he would make more of a deal about founding DA at the time. So onto his next entry pertaining to DA on March 1st 2001 - It is on this entry that he starts to provide his DA email for contact. He also make's two entries on this date, almost identical, except the 2nd one (posted 2 mins later) refers to being there "from the start", along with a list of skin websites. Is he referring to having been involved in the building of these sites from the start? Or is he referring to being witness to "A new genre of art." - it's ambiguous to know exactly what he means. His last DMusic journal posted on July 25th 2003 also refers to Deviantart - but does not provide much information.

Edit Aug 6th: Some sensible advice from jark ... whether you follow this cause or not, please heed his words.
Also, mccann makes an attempt to clarify spyed's 'Scaling The Deviants' journals, in his recent journal 'XYZ...WTF' - so you may be interested in having a read of that.
From the first issue of DeviantMag comes some further evidence about the Origins of the DeviantArt and the magazine. There is also a list of Staff & Contributers .

Edit Aug 12th:
Two more interesting journals on this matter, justthorne's History in the Making and Our Response; A BIG ASS LIST by *killjoy. Both of these journals are packed full of VERY IMPORTANT information and links.
killjoy has provided a link to controversial staff forum thread that was originally leaked on T52 as 'screenies', but was eventually removed due to abuse of staff who participated in the thread. This set of Screen Captures is a bit choppy, but you can still follow the conversation and see some of the inside thoughts from our 'beloved' leaders - certainly hints on who can and cant be trusted. Please do not go and personally abuse staff over this thread - thats just immature and really doesnt help matters. The leaked forum thread is discussed in justthorne's journal, An Open Letter, re: Admin thread.
I also never provided a link to the Liquisoft Thread that was deleted from DA by liquisoft. The main reason this evidence is important because it contradicts the well-known FAQ #160: Can I remove or delete comments on my userpage or deviations?
spyed has released two journals since my last update, And the beat goes on and The 'Corporation' moves on - neither provide any real response in light of this matter, but I suppose we can all agree that at some point we need to move on somewhat, as this matter is going to be a drawn out affair.

Anyway, The 'Corporation' moves on journal is interesting in that he discusses many of the new plans that are to be implented on DA over the next few months. However, he also links to the journal of Josh in response to the The Llama Conspiracy, a new emot implemented on DA recently. Josh's journal is curious in that it states that the Llama emot is "not an insult to anyone. It's not part of a grand conspiracy. It wasn't meant to hurt anyone's feelings because it was added before other emotes." - I'm sorry but Im far from convinced that this is true. Remember spyed POINTS to this journal, so he must agree with it to some extent - anyway, take a look at the title of the song Josh is listening too ... and just what is he trying to say in that highlighted quote?

Ive noticed that spyed has certainly been treading the thin line with community emotions over the past week. Most questionable was the insensitive timing of his decision to upload an unimpressive collection of 'happy snaps' which included My Desk at HQ (looking very plush with a huge desk and plasma TV - it's funny to note that he has NO BOOKS on all those shelves tho), also The Man in Black (showing a summit meeting between staff in which jark was unable to attend), and then there is The Hat, a smelly little snub in the face of adversity. It is worrying to note that many members have had 'snapshots' removed from their gallery in the past, having been told that photos of this calibre belong in their 'scraps' collection - obviously again, the rules dont apply to rambunctious admin staff.
justthorne has also released a journal, Lack of Trust Will Ruin Us, which discusses the option of putting your gallery into storage, and how taking this action is useful to the cause. I reiterate that this is a completely personal choice to make (I myself have chosen to not take this action - though I have deleted any prints I had up for sale and removed my entire gallery from the deviantMOBILE service). The bottom line of this action also goes towards establishing a point I have made to many 'spyed' supporters - that millions of dollars worth of OUR art is in the hands of a man who's trust is questionable. Without our art, the website is worthless. I pointed out in the above section 'current issues', that under the dubious rephrased 'Submission Agreement' (which we were asked to agree to in April (?) this year) we were told to take it in good faith that those holding the reigns of the 'Submission Agreement' were trustable - now we can't be so certain. This has also occured to a few other members in the community so Im not alone in this observation ... I implore you to be aware of any new changes being made at DA which may make use of the agreement in ways that you may not want your art used. justthorne includes the Submission Agreement in his journal, and highlights questionable sections.
itirep has also discussed the Submission Agreement in his journal deviantART Inc Pwns Me after having the contract reviewed by a corporate lawyer. As I suspected, the agreement is extremely disconcerting, and the results of itirep's investigation are of major interest to all members of deviantART. I will post a link to his journal when it is updated with further details.
A full-on, and abusive, Chat Log between spyed and killjoy on IRC in Nov 2002. Intriguing in the light of recent events. The behaviour of spyed in this conversation goes to show how young he was when he became involved in the running of DA - yes his rantings are much like those of an immature high-school boy.
spyed has also discussed the 'Basic Print Program' in his journal The 'Corporation' moves on. I've never approved of the Print Services on DA because the profit margin is exceedingly imbalanced. In the past the 'Basic Prints Program' was only available to subscribers, but his journal suggests that the 'Basic Print Program' is being extended to ALL members of DA - not a bad thing in itself, but to me an obvious move solely at financial gain. This is a distinctive corporate move because, as the artist, you will only receive 10% of the profits made from any prints you sell, while 90% of profits go to DA. This is astronomical cut for anyone who is agent for the sale of YOUR WORK. Also be aware that DA also receives a massive 50% of profits from the sale of your prints if you are subscribed to the Premium Prints Service. Dont be fooled - 50% IS A HUGE CUT - way beyond the commission received by any reputable broker. I just want be sure that people are made aware of this before choosing to participate in either of the Print programs.
3sunflower has created a list of Yellow Journals. Please note her with a link to your 'Yellow Journal' if you want to be included on the list.

SO WHAT CAN WE DO ABOUT IT?

I doubt jark would want to return to working with spyed, but Im sure our support for him wont go unnoticed - maybe even when it comes to the court room. If the new admin wont provide answers, and then ultimately make changes detrimental to us all, then I doubt spyed is going to be left with much of an 'art-community' to profit from.

So firstly, Sign The Petition.

Make A Stand on August the 7th - Deviant Art's 5th Birthday.

There's a few different ideas going around, but I think the best suggestion is to promote the community spirit on which this website was founded.

Do not make any purchases of prints or accounts.
Go crazy commenting on the deviations of others.
Participate in the community forums, and be sure to visit the Welcome Centre forum.
Find some new friends to +devwatch.
Only favourite jark related artwork, so that the whole front page is yellow - ensure your user page preferences are set to display 'Recent Favourites'.
Don't submit art, or only submit 'Yellow Art' or jark related art.
Change your community mood and deviant type to 'Yellow Alien' on your user page.
Temporarily change to a yellow jark themed avatar until the community is given some real answers from the current administration.
Deactivate the deviantMobile service on your gallery. To do this go to Your Profile, select the "Deviation Management" tab, and then click on the "Deactivate Gallery" button.
Some people are also putting their galleries into storage - this of course is your personal choice.
Be wise when discussing this issue with deviant's who are not in support of the yellow movement - Dont be insulting!! Try to pass on appropriate evidence (refer above) which may help them to form an informed opinion on this issue. Be firm, yet calm. Do not spam user pages, and ultimately, do not be abusive.
Promote community spirit!

SUPPORT YELLOW DAY - AUGUST 7TH 2005

End Journal Mirror

Australia plays 'Piggy in the Middle' between China and the United States

Thu, 14 Jul 2005 09:14:40 GMT

I had an interesting debate with my husband earlier today about developing relations between Australia and China, sparked by a small article in the Sydney Morning Herald - Chinese whispers over Howard's end.

My recent fascination with the possible time-traveller from 2035/36, John Titor, was reignited when I read about US concerns regarding our intentions to form stronger ties wth the communist Asiatic state. For those who dont know of John Titor, he made numerous 'predictions' about our possible future world when he 'visited' our 'worldline' in 2000/01. If you would like to learn more about this controversial topic please visit the Titor site and the Anomalies time travel forum boards. His conversations are also archived at Above Top Secret. One of the few references he made pertaining to Australia and China was ...

John Titor - Feb 8th 2001 18:59

"Australia is sort of interesting in what is unknown. After the war, they were not very cooperative or friendly. It is known they did repulse a Chinese invasion and most of their cities were hit. They have a trading relationship with the U.S. but I would characterize them as reclusive and ticked off. "

It is argued that this statement refers to some time after 2013.

I find this 'prediction' extremely interesting in the light of recent events. Prime Minister John Howard is currently attending a meeting in Washington to discuss counter-terrorism security measures following last weeks transport bombings in London, and to talk about the role of Australian troops in Afghanistan. I anticipate that a recent announcement declaring that Australian troops are expected to take over leadership of UK campaigns in Southern Iraq will also be addressed.  In addition, Australia's growing political and economic alliance with China is also on the agenda. What does this mean for Australia? Is it possible to walk the tender line between two opposing ideals? It is here where things become uncertain.

The struggle for the next dominant super power nation may well be closer than we wish to believe. Could Australia's relationship with China be the catalyst in disrupting the unstable truce? It is no secret that relations between China and the US have always been on tenuous grounds, with many unresolved issues such as Taiwan, North Korea, Communisim, and China's human rights reputation. Australia's decision to put these issues aside in the structuring of a Free Trade Agreement with China, may well put them at loggerheads with the United States, who plan to voice their concerns at the Washington talks.

I question US motives in this dissension, and the way they may finally choose to enforce their political morals on Australian policy decisions. In Howard, I am impelled to feel both contempt and admiration. Typical to Australia's position on the fence, I see in him, a certain amount of acceptance and resistance to American extremism. Here is my politically uneducated take on Howard's impressive time in office ...

I believe he was possibly destined to loose the election in 2001 - but 9/11, his prophetic decision to keep the Tampa from landing on Australian soil, and events leading up to the War on Iraq, left Australian voters frightened of change at that time. World disorder saved his arse, and set a new stage for his future leadership. It was during the three years following that I  perceived a degree of alteration in Howard's appearance, deportment, and standing amongst the international community. I don't think this was completely by chance ... in fact, I think there was much more behind this conversion than most Australians realise.

Without UN support, it was imperative that the US had as many nations as it could muster on it's side for the Iraq war. Granted, Australia wasnt a hard sell, as to be expected ... but other nations were ... and many were starting to look towards a strengthening Australia as an example of balanced actions. She needed to be portrayed in her best light. I believe this is where the US conservative propaganda machine stepped in full-force - complete with make-over and body language experts. Howard was transformed before our eyes - he now appears before us as a confident, stately leader.

The US propaganda squad also taught political tactics - showing the Liberal team how to best defeat their opponents - possibly even producing the advertising themselves. Noticeably, the 2004 federal election was a single-sided dirty campaign. The Liberal party advertising demonstrated very little about their own policies, and a good deal about errors and failures of the Labour party. A suspicious new comer to the game, the conservative Family First party, also had a similar advertising campaign, and zero discussion about actual policies. Often, news stories centred around personal misgivings of the Labour party members, forming apprehension and distrust in the minds of the Australian audience. It seems the Australian voters did not question these tactics. They did not notice the ethical choice by Labour to fight a clean battle and win on the merits of their policies. This decision to not fight back was to their detriment. Many voters considered it demonstrated a weakness and hence granted Howard an immoral victory over Labour.

I hear you asking, why would the US assist the Liberal party? Well, that's fairly simple to answer. The Republican and Liberal parties are both of a similar conservative nature.  Bush already had the Liberals on side with the Iraq war, and Howard could be easily manipulated by his timely attendance at the Whitehouse during 9/11. To change leadership would risk decisions already made by their close relationship. Maybe Im wrong ... maybe Im full of hot air ... but that is how I have seen the last few years in Australian politics. Also, I'm yet to meet anyone who actually voted for the Liberal party (but that discussion I shall undoubtedly leave for another post in the future). So now back to China.

This is where the side of Howard that I admire will show it's colours. He was grateful to receive the assistance of the Republican propanganda team to help him retain his leadership, but I dont think he can be bought off that easily. I think the US will try to force his hand ... literally attempt to bribe or, more likely, blackmail Howard into submission. Will Howard's new found diplomacy allow him to preserve his alligence to America, while simultaneously co-operating with her challenger? The Sydney Morning Herald article suggests the US would like to increase their influence on security and defense in the Asia-Pacific region, with the asstance of Australia's strategic location, in the light of recent US-based talks concerning the advance of China as a superpower - in which Australia refused to attend. I believe Howard has the courage to say "No" to US requests which encroach upon Australian interests ... The question is ... Will they let him?

Personally, I don't think China would care if Australia remained alligned with America, so long as it stays out of any disagreements between the two nations. I honestly believe China is mature enough to respect our neutrality. It's the US I am worried about.  She can be ruthless when she does not get what she wants. The xenophobic US government can't help themselves and are likely to try and make us get involved when it suits their purpose - calling on alliances such as ANZUS and the coalition war in Iraq. Possibly even drawing on their Patriot Acts if their needs arise. Will Australia succumb to US pressure and be forced to do something in which China does not approve?

Other quotes of intrigue include ....

John Titor - Feb 8th 2001 13:18
"I guess you could say that. Taiwan, Japan and Korea were all ?forcefully annexed? before N Day. "

Feb 9th 2001 14:02
"Yes, I think the New World Order idea tried to establish itself. I would consider them the combination of the old U.S. federal system, Europe, Canada and Australia."

Feb 15th 2001 17:06
Question - "What role does Australia play in the war? You stated elsewhere that they repulse a Chinese invasion - Does this mean Australian government side with your enemy? (As I think I recall you stating that they allied with your side + Russia... Could be wrong though.)"
Titor - "There were deep divisions in Australia also. I would associate it more with a powder keg than a civil war."

I would put to you that the reason Australia gets "ticked off" is, she gets somewhat double-crossed by the US, being drawn into their conflict against China and being punished for it. Australia continues her trade-relations with the US following the war because (1) China will no longer deal with them (no longer trusting Australia and also in pretty bad shape anyway) and (2) perhaps America feels somewhat responsible for the predicament they put her in and due to their own duality which leads to their civil war.

Another interesting quote was rather confident given that there was only to be seven years from when he made the 'prediction' until those events 'come to pass' ...

Jan 29th 2001 12:25
Question - "Are the Olympics still being played in your time?"
Titor - "As a result of the many conflicts, no, there were no official Olympics after 2004. However, it appears they may be revived in in 2040."

One day following the announcement of their successful bid for the Olympics, the London transport system was struck by terrorist bombings. Celebrations were understandably canceled, but England has stated it will not allow these tragic events to stop them conducting the games. I imagine Australia's security experience at the Sydney 2000 games will play an important preparatory role in England - which may draw us closer to the 'front lines'. Of course, we will just have to wait and see.

Now I have said in a previous post that I believe John Titor was more akin to the character K-PAX, from the movie of the same name, than a deliberate hoax or real time-traveller. I believe that he was just very intuitive at interpreting world events and where they would likely lead. His story still remains fascinating to me, and I am always willing to keep an open mind about such things as I do not believe anyone has been able to come up with indisputable evidence to prove he was not who he pertained to be. Events of the past 4 years certainly have not ruled out the possibility of Titor's world of the future - traveller from the future or not, there is no reason not to learn from the 'warnings' he was trying to convey to us.

Schapelle sentenced to 20 years

Thu, 02 Jun 2005 15:17:39 GMT

Rather than type a lengthy blog entry regarding the 20 year sentance handed down to Schapelle Corby on Friday 27th May 2005 ... I will refer you to a forum thread on Deviant Art in which my views are clearly expressed. >> 20 YEARS JAIL for Marijuana <<
I have been following the case of Schapelle Corby for many months and have learnt much over that time ... some of my original conceptions altered as I discovered new facts. Nonetheless, I still believe she is Innocent and outline many of my reasons in the DA forum thread. As I have spent much time on this topic, both here on my blog, and in the DA forums, I don't wish to repeat myself several times over. The controversy surrounding this case is very involved ... and many of the comments are highly detailed. If you are interested, please put aside a couple of hours to peruse the discussion.

Sacrificed

Sat, 14 May 2005 10:22:23 GMT

This is gonna be a lengthy blog entry ... I got many issues & conspiracies I wish to discuss today, so I apologise from the outset for my verbosity.
I'll start with Schapelle Corby who I have discussed in a couple of previous journal entries, Fair Justice for Schapelle Corby, & Schapelle Corby Update. Ive also discussed this topic on the Deviant Art Forums, Free Schapelle Corby, as well as in my DA journal, ... And Justice For All.
There have been a number of huge drug busts recently, both in Australia & other countries, with many fellow country men arrested. Only yesterday a total of 125kg of heroin was seized, and 5 people arrested, after successful investigation of an international drug smuggling operation between Hong Kong and Australia. A huge haul that the Australian Federal Police can be proud to say they removed from our streets.
About two weeks ago, 13 ppl were arrested, including a police officer & an ex-director of the Macquarie Bank, for allegedly importing 10kg of cocaine into Australia thru Sydney's international airport on October 8th last year. This was the same date Corby flew out of Australia to Bali with 4.1kg of marijuana in her body-board bag. The AFP tell us that Qantas baggage handlers have been under surveillance for many months as part of Operation Mocha - an elaborate investigation set up to crack the drug smuggling syndicate involved in transporting drugs thru customs. To this date no baggage handlers hav bin arrested, tho the AFP tell us that they hav narrowed their suspect list to 10 baggage handlers. Two of the alleged syndicate leaders are also still at large, including former 1st grade Balmain rugby league player Leslie Mara. Meanwhile AFP commissioner, Mick Keelty, is trying to convince us that the claims by Corby's defense team of corrupt baggage handlers at Sydney airport is 'flimsy' & the two cases are completely unrelated. Im not sure how he can come to this conclusion, as the director of Qantas refuses to rule out any links. Keelty's timing is impecible as the judges are set to make a decision on Corby's case on May 27th. This is a man who has previously told us, "It does Corby's case no good to talk about it openly in the media."
About a month ago, nine ppl were arrested in Indonesia attempting to smuggle 8kg of heroin out of the country, with the intention of meeting with a Mr Big, code named "Pinochio", to hand over the goods once they arrived in Sydney. "Pinochio" was also mentioned in Corby's case by Victorian prisoner, John patrick Ford, as the true owner of the marijuana in Corby's bag. He claimed that she had unwittingly been used as a 'mule' in a bungled domestic movement of the drugs, resulting in Corby's Bali arrest with the contraband.
In all of these recent cases, informants hav surfaced. The accused hav admitted to their involvement couriering drugs thru customs on several occasions. They hav supplied information to authorities about drug cartels, figureheads, & the participation of baggage handlers. Thru all of this Schapelle has continued to protest her innocence. Not once has she been able to supply information on drug smuggling networks or the people involved. Not even to save her own life, has she been able to offer a single name in her defence. If she is guilty, she's one tough cookie. The conditions in which she is jailed are appaling, with rats, little food, & no privacy. Bigger men than her hav broken to the pressure of interogation & threats by the justice system. The AFP admit there is no intelligence to suggest Corby has ever had any dealings with drugs or associations with drug criminals.
So why now, so close to the conclusion of her trial, has Mr Keelty chosen to speak up in such a damaging manner? Does he hav sumthin to hide? Wot does he know? Why is Corby suddenly being sacrificed to the Indonesian justice system by the AFP? Exactly wot has her case uncovered or jeopardised? I wont be fooled by his 'flimsy' attempt to make her look guilty. It seems only a foolish man, with sumthing to hide, would try to establish that these several coincidences are unrelated
Finally, I would like to discuss Vivian Alvarez, Wrongly deported by the Australian immigration department, to spend the rest of her life in a Philippine's hospice while her children were placed in foster care. For want of of a betta description of my opinion in this matter, I am compelled to exclaim, "Wot a fuck-up!" Apparently all this started four years ago in the Northern NSW town of Lismore. Surprisingly, she is not at all angry about this system bungle, quoted as saying "It was a mistake" & "To err is human".
After leaving my parents home, I spent 10 years of my life in Lismore, moving away from the area only 4 years ago also. It may hav bin a "mistake", but I feel the systems in Lismore are well set up for these "mistakes" to occur on a regular basis. Not one machine questions, or operates, in conjunction with another. The area is a complete shambles, with social problems comparable to cities ten times its size ... 75% of the population is said to be mentally ill, drugs are rampent, there are destitute & homeless, & racial discord is common. And the system? They are all out for themselves & the money they can obtain from fedreal and state funding. None are really there to help the people ... they want to put your name on the books so they can justify their jobs by saying they assisted X amount of people & can get even more funding next time. Meanwhile the problems just get worse.
It is believed Alvarez was recovering from a car accident, or a severe beating, when she was discovered lying in the street & deported in 2001. She remembers very little about what happened to her before being deported. When taken to Lismore Base Hospital, she told them she had to pick up her son from daycare ... instead she was detained in a motel with a guard from the immigration department. Her family & carers listed her as missing to the authorities, & her children were placed into foster care. Did family services contact the hospital? It seems not. Did the missing persons bureau contact the hospital? It seems not. Did immigration contact anyone? It seems not. The bloody town is a classic metaphor of that movie 'The Cube'.
Here are my thoughts on wot I believed happened to Alvarez in 2001 ...
Vivian was badly beaten in a racial attack & left for dead. When she was found & taken to Lismore hospital, she was delirious & unable to convey her situation to staff. Having lost her passport, & finding it difficult to understand her accent, the hospital was unable to ascertain an identity. I suspect she was possibly housed & medicated at Richmond Clinic for several days while authorites were contacted by the hospital. From personal experiences of Lismore hospital procedures, I believe their 1st point of contact would hav bin the immigration dept. At this point Vivian was probably frantic with worry about her child, presenting to the authorities and hospital staff as a crazy woman or high on drugs. Still seriously injured, she was taken to a motel where she was held prisoner by immigration guards for two days until she was deported to the Philippines.
Meanwhile, the Lismore Dept of Community Services (a.k.a. Dept of Child Stealers) were happy to hav their hot hands on a brand new foster case. The dept get money for each child under care of the director general, & foster carers receive AU$10,000 annually for each child also. The younger a child is, the more desirable an asset, as they are easily controlled & manipulated by the state. In Lismore, the legal sale of children by DOCS is a regular occurance. Due to the high instance of mentally ill & drug addicted parents, DOCS Lismore hav a high turnover of child protection cases. Because of this, in their eyes, every case reported to them is a genuine care concern. Even now, on Vivian's imminent return to Australia, DOCS hav stated that she will only be reunited with her son on a part-time basis. Wot an Injustice! I am outraged!

Schapelle Corby Update

Sun, 08 May 2005 09:51:39 GMT

There are many websites dedicated to the cause of supporting Schapelle Corby, a young Australian woman facing harsh penalties in Indonesia for her alleged involvement in an international drug-smuggling operation. There have been claims that these websites have recently come under attack by hackers who have been traced to Indonesia and Singapore, and also, that some of the site administrators have been personally threatened. In the light of much propaganda surrounding this case, who knows how much of this is true.
Many of these websites have the approval of Corby's family, but are not official. This has made it challenging for people such as myself, to refer advocators to further support resources, as it is difficult to verify which sites have genuine ties to the family and fund-raising.
To limit any possibilities of fraudulant fundraising activities and to give the case an official web presence with which to co-ordinate its activities, the Gold Coast financier of Schapelle's case, Ron Bakir, launched http://www.schapellecorby.com.au on May 6th 2005. It contains information about Schapelle, latest news, and a fact-file. A forum will also be available on the site soon. Unfortunately, the official site presently offers no further support mechanisms, which will hopefully appear in the near future.
Most people really want to know what they can do to help ... mentioned in the Sydney Morning Herald, the site Dont Shoot Schapelle seems to be affiliated with Corby family members, and has multiple support options to choose from.
In my last blog entry discussing this case, Fair Justice For Schapelle Corby, I discussed various ways in which to help Schapelle. Some of these are still valid avenues to explore, such as writing to The Australian Consulate-General In Bali or Alexander Downer using this form letter at Amnesty International. The Yellow Ribbon has also become a symbol of her plight, with the family decorating the court room before Schapelle made her statement to the judges on 28th April 2005. They request that supporters tie a yellow ribbon to their letterbox, tree, fence, mobile phone, etc. as a peaceful demonstration.
Unfortunately the avenue of online petitions has been explored and found to be of little use, as hard-copy petitions are required to be presented in court. That is not to say that they have no effect - the informal threat of boycott has been heard loadly in Indonesia. Please visit Dont Shoot Schapelle for more information regarding both an online and printable petition for presentation in the courts.
It is also important to note that the individuals responsible for this injustice brought upon Schapelle, are still at large. Recent revelations about baggage handling procedures and lax security at Australian Airports have become very prominent in proving her innocence. Victorian prisoner, John Patrick Ford, gave evidence in Schapelle's trial, regarding a drug smuggling operation involving baggage handlers between Brisbane and Sydney. On his bail, he was to receive a phone call from an individual, code-named "Pinnochio", who was to supply him with more information about those responsible. He did not make bail, and consequently, did not receive the phone call. It is alleged the nine Australians caught attempting to smuggle heroin out of Indonesia in April 2005, were given phones programmed with a phone number to reach a "Pinnochio" on their return to Australia. Again, it is difficult to decipher reality from propaganda in both these instances, however it would be foolish to allow the connection to pass without thorough investigation by the AFP.
The Dont Shoot Schapelle website has a link where you can give information about identities or activities of drug smuggling on domestic Australian flights. Remember, the people responsible for this injustice do not care who takes the blame for their criminal activities. They will not stand up to help Schapelle. Someone must know what is going on, and is able to blow the whistle on the true perpetrators of this crime.

Fair Justice For Schapelle Corby

Sat, 16 Apr 2005 18:03:06 GMT

This case is an outrage.

Schapelle Corby is a 27 year old Australian woman being held in Denpasar prison for allegedly attempting to smuggle 4.1 kilograms of Cannibis through Indonesian customs in October last year. She denys the charges and claims the drugs were planted in her bodyboard bag.
Evidence has been presented in her defense that the marijuana was put in her unlocked bodyboard bag during transit by a baggage handler involved in an elaborate drug smuggling ring. Schapelle began her trip to Indonesia from Brisbane and then flew on to Sydney International airport, where her bags were left in a bagage carriage for an extended period of time in an area where many airport personnel have easy access.
If she is found guilty she may face Death by Firing Squad. Her sentence is expected to be sort next Thursday April 21st.

Her case raises many disturbing issues ....

Lax security and proven baggage tampering at Australian airports in an era of terrorism

Why sumone would want to import marijuana to Indonesia (typically it would be expected that marijuana would be exported from the region)

Hints at corruption in the Indonesian legal system and that many legal protocols were ignored.

Sentancing inconsistancies considering the lax two year sentance given to Abu Bakar Bashir for his involvement in the Bali bombings which killed approx 200 people.

Before you judge this girl Guilty before proven Innocent I would like to point you to this news article printed in THE AGE on March 5th 2005 .... Evidence Lost and Bungled

There are many ways we can support her ...

The family request people tie a yellow ribbon to a tree in your garden or around your letterbox to show support.

Sign A petition - there are two: Help To Free Schapelle Corby & Call For Government Intervention

Write a letter to Schapelle to let her know that she is not forgotten ... her family receive the emails, print them, and deliver them to Schapelle each day.

Write Letters to the Powers that be ... The Australian Consulate-General In Bali or Alexander Downer - There is a form letter Here to make this easier.

Donate funds to her cause: Email HFS Incorporated for more information on how to do this.

Spread the word.