One More For Luck.....
Miss Appropriate's Misbehaviour
Coyly as was normally her trait
She asked if it was appropriate
To kiss on a first date
Or longer should she wait
Replying he scratched his pate
Explaining it could be fate
With that he could relate
If he was her soul mate
In that case there's little to debate
His passions may abate
Causing him to be irate
Then he, you'll have to sedate
Oh! She did gasp, that I would hate
Now I'm in such a state
And she ran through the gate
In fear he could be accurate
Lee...1st August 2006
Monday, July 31, 2006
'Round and 'Round...On and On
Eternal motion forever perpetual
In the beginning casual
Sensual passions gradual
Ardent emotions mutual
Yet individual and intellectual
Whence at the threshold eventual
Thence became a daily ritual
Their love remained continual
As the stars and moon are actual
And morning's sunrise punctual
Lee...1st August 2006
Eternal motion forever perpetual
In the beginning casual
Sensual passions gradual
Ardent emotions mutual
Yet individual and intellectual
Whence at the threshold eventual
Thence became a daily ritual
Their love remained continual
As the stars and moon are actual
And morning's sunrise punctual
Lee...1st August 2006
Some Daughters Do 'Ave 'Em! Some Mothers Don't Deserve 'Em?
I watched with disgust, sadness and anger the segment of Sunday evening's "Sixty Minutes"...."Sweet Revenge". The story from the US was of the molestation of Celesta Davis when she was a five year-old, by a close family friend. This so-called 'friend' also molested her sister. The mother of the then young children discovered what had happened to her daughters by overhearing their conversation one day. At the time, the mother didn't confront the monster who perpetrated the atrocities as their friendship, it appeared, was of higher importance than that of the welfare of her two daughters! It beggars belief!
Thirty years on, Celesta, after hearing the news that the son of this creature was jailed for child molestation (like father, like son!) hunted the father down, found him and finally had an audience with him, confronting him with his diabolical actions. This man, remember, was their closest family friend. He was full of excuses, of course. He didn't once apologise for his actions. He just stuttered and stammered like the worm he is! The mother of the young women then joined in the 'meeting'. At the end of their 'meeting'.....wait for it....the mother rose and went to the creature who had molested her girls and hugged him...for minutes!!!!!!!! My mouth fell open. I could not believe what I was seeing! The mother HUGGED him!!! I wanted to jump through my television screen...I was, and still am, so angry at that mother...for her non-action at the time of discovering the sexual molestation had occurred and for her actions towards this....there's not a word suitable to describe him....(despicable, slimy bastard will do for now)....after the confrontation.
The 'mother' doesn't deserve daughters/children. The best thing those two young women can do, in my opinion, is say 'bye! bye! Mum!'
I watched with disgust, sadness and anger the segment of Sunday evening's "Sixty Minutes"...."Sweet Revenge". The story from the US was of the molestation of Celesta Davis when she was a five year-old, by a close family friend. This so-called 'friend' also molested her sister. The mother of the then young children discovered what had happened to her daughters by overhearing their conversation one day. At the time, the mother didn't confront the monster who perpetrated the atrocities as their friendship, it appeared, was of higher importance than that of the welfare of her two daughters! It beggars belief!
Thirty years on, Celesta, after hearing the news that the son of this creature was jailed for child molestation (like father, like son!) hunted the father down, found him and finally had an audience with him, confronting him with his diabolical actions. This man, remember, was their closest family friend. He was full of excuses, of course. He didn't once apologise for his actions. He just stuttered and stammered like the worm he is! The mother of the young women then joined in the 'meeting'. At the end of their 'meeting'.....wait for it....the mother rose and went to the creature who had molested her girls and hugged him...for minutes!!!!!!!! My mouth fell open. I could not believe what I was seeing! The mother HUGGED him!!! I wanted to jump through my television screen...I was, and still am, so angry at that mother...for her non-action at the time of discovering the sexual molestation had occurred and for her actions towards this....there's not a word suitable to describe him....(despicable, slimy bastard will do for now)....after the confrontation.
The 'mother' doesn't deserve daughters/children. The best thing those two young women can do, in my opinion, is say 'bye! bye! Mum!'
Sunday, July 30, 2006
The Quest
Throughout the years wide and afar
Trekking life's meandering highway
Defying the ebb and stemming the flow
Beating the hurdles conquering the brae
Wistfully she searched high sought low
For him...her Lochinvar
Succumbing she wished upon a star
To find emptiness heartache and pain
In giving her heart a problem arose
Their love for her so often they did feign
How badly she hurt nobody knows
In her quest for Lochinvar
Exploring on and on it was bizarre
If victorious what then would she do
A life complete with happiness and bliss
Or with tear-filled eyes bidding him adieu
A doleful smile a lingering farewell kiss
Perhaps instead she'd pickle him in a jar
Her Lochinvar.
Lee 31/7/06
Throughout the years wide and afar
Trekking life's meandering highway
Defying the ebb and stemming the flow
Beating the hurdles conquering the brae
Wistfully she searched high sought low
For him...her Lochinvar
Succumbing she wished upon a star
To find emptiness heartache and pain
In giving her heart a problem arose
Their love for her so often they did feign
How badly she hurt nobody knows
In her quest for Lochinvar
Exploring on and on it was bizarre
If victorious what then would she do
A life complete with happiness and bliss
Or with tear-filled eyes bidding him adieu
A doleful smile a lingering farewell kiss
Perhaps instead she'd pickle him in a jar
Her Lochinvar.
Lee 31/7/06
True Colours!
Mel Gibson's on a path of self-destruction, it would seem. Just because he is a 'celebrity', I see no reason why he should be treated differently from any other person caught drink-driving.
His anti-Semetic and foul-mouthed rantings certainly say a lot about his way of thinking! Gibson's diatribe during his arrest certainly puts lie to his battling accusations of being anti-Semitic when he was promoting his 'The Passion of the Christ".
I reckon there'll be a lot in the movie industry who are impressed by his behaviour!
I suppose Gibson thinks why should he worry! He's got a few dollars saved up to last him through a comfortable retirement. He'd do us all a favour if he'd take up early retirement/redundancy!
Mel Gibson's on a path of self-destruction, it would seem. Just because he is a 'celebrity', I see no reason why he should be treated differently from any other person caught drink-driving.
His anti-Semetic and foul-mouthed rantings certainly say a lot about his way of thinking! Gibson's diatribe during his arrest certainly puts lie to his battling accusations of being anti-Semitic when he was promoting his 'The Passion of the Christ".
I reckon there'll be a lot in the movie industry who are impressed by his behaviour!
I suppose Gibson thinks why should he worry! He's got a few dollars saved up to last him through a comfortable retirement. He'd do us all a favour if he'd take up early retirement/redundancy!
Friday, July 28, 2006
Weekend Pleasures...
And it's time to lash out and have a bit of fun! I sit sipping on a glass of Cabernet Sauvignon with music playing in the background feeling at peace with the world (even if the world isn't at peace!). In my mountain greenery, all is quiet as I enjoy my solitude. I know, some of you will say 'solitude' isn't much fun, but I enjoy my privacy and my own space, finding many things to amuse me. I don't need people around me all the time to entertain me (or I them!). It is not my wont to do so, unless I'm in the mood for a small gathering of close friends. That being said, I do, however, throw a few fun, leisurely luncheons every so often during which we all have a great time grazing around a laden table, topped up wine glasses at the ready! On the subject of luncheons/food, and as I adore Italian food, I'll share a couple of ideas with you in case you are at a loss what to cook this weekend!
Lingune with Prawns & Mussels: Finely chop 1-2 heads of garlic. In a pan add garlic and slightly less than a pint of olive oil (this recipe serves 10, so don't panic...just cut down the quantities for less if you so desire). On low heat simmer until garlic just begins to change colour. Add dried chilli flakes or paste, to taste and 1 bunch of Italian parsley, roughly chopped. Toss in a dollop of butter. Allow sauce to simmer 1 minute. Remove from heat. In a large pot, steam about 1kg mussels until shells open, discarding any unopened ones. Shell about 20 or so green prawns (raw). Lightly saute' empty shells in another dollop of butter and a splash or two of olive oil, a dash of salt and some ground black pepper. Remove shells, then add prawns. Cook until prawns have just turned pink. Set aside until 1.5lbs linguine is cooked al dente;. Drain but don't rinse. Plop pasta into a bowl. Add mussels, prawns and garlic mixture. Top with chopped Italian Parsley. Stir and serve.
Sauteed Sea Scallops with Rosemary & Lemon: Choose a pan that can hold 680g scallops in one layer later. Into the pan put 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil and 2 garlic cloves, sliced finely. As the garlic turns golden, add 1-1.5 teaspoons fresh rosemary leaves. Stir. Add the scallops, salt and ground black pepper. Turn up heat to high. Cook, stirring fequently until scallops change to a flat white. Add 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (or lime juice, if you prefer). Turn up heat, again. Stir once or twice, then serve with crusty bread.
These should whet your taste buds, unless, of course, you're allergic to seafood...then you'll just have to wait until next weekend!
And it's time to lash out and have a bit of fun! I sit sipping on a glass of Cabernet Sauvignon with music playing in the background feeling at peace with the world (even if the world isn't at peace!). In my mountain greenery, all is quiet as I enjoy my solitude. I know, some of you will say 'solitude' isn't much fun, but I enjoy my privacy and my own space, finding many things to amuse me. I don't need people around me all the time to entertain me (or I them!). It is not my wont to do so, unless I'm in the mood for a small gathering of close friends. That being said, I do, however, throw a few fun, leisurely luncheons every so often during which we all have a great time grazing around a laden table, topped up wine glasses at the ready! On the subject of luncheons/food, and as I adore Italian food, I'll share a couple of ideas with you in case you are at a loss what to cook this weekend!
Lingune with Prawns & Mussels: Finely chop 1-2 heads of garlic. In a pan add garlic and slightly less than a pint of olive oil (this recipe serves 10, so don't panic...just cut down the quantities for less if you so desire). On low heat simmer until garlic just begins to change colour. Add dried chilli flakes or paste, to taste and 1 bunch of Italian parsley, roughly chopped. Toss in a dollop of butter. Allow sauce to simmer 1 minute. Remove from heat. In a large pot, steam about 1kg mussels until shells open, discarding any unopened ones. Shell about 20 or so green prawns (raw). Lightly saute' empty shells in another dollop of butter and a splash or two of olive oil, a dash of salt and some ground black pepper. Remove shells, then add prawns. Cook until prawns have just turned pink. Set aside until 1.5lbs linguine is cooked al dente;. Drain but don't rinse. Plop pasta into a bowl. Add mussels, prawns and garlic mixture. Top with chopped Italian Parsley. Stir and serve.
Sauteed Sea Scallops with Rosemary & Lemon: Choose a pan that can hold 680g scallops in one layer later. Into the pan put 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil and 2 garlic cloves, sliced finely. As the garlic turns golden, add 1-1.5 teaspoons fresh rosemary leaves. Stir. Add the scallops, salt and ground black pepper. Turn up heat to high. Cook, stirring fequently until scallops change to a flat white. Add 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (or lime juice, if you prefer). Turn up heat, again. Stir once or twice, then serve with crusty bread.
These should whet your taste buds, unless, of course, you're allergic to seafood...then you'll just have to wait until next weekend!
Thursday, July 27, 2006
Singapore Fling!
A friend of mine is presently visiting Singapore causing happy memories to flood my mind of my time spent there. A number of years ago, a girlfriend and I excitedly arrived at Changi Airport around 11pm. After a bus trip to the Hyatt Hotel in Orchid Avenue, which was to be our home for the next week, we hurriedly deposited our suitcases to do a reconnaisance of the city area. This was to be the start of a wonderful week. Little time was spent in our hotel room. It became a necessity only for quick showers and re-dressing before we hit the highlights, full of high spirits again. Sleep wasn't part of our agenda! Every afternoon, without fail, at 4, I visited 'Raffles'. First I'd go to the 'Long Bar' where, for tradition-sake, I ordered a 'Singapore Sling'. From the 'Long Bar' I'd venture into the 'Tiger Bar' for a brief visit and then I'd end up at my favourite bar, the 'Writers' Bar' to soak in its rich history. There I felt surrounded by the ghosts of literary giants such as Somerset Maugham, Noel Coward, Rudyard Kipling, Herman Hesse, Joseph Conrad, et al. It's on record the manager of the 'Writers' Bar' at the time of my visits had been a bell hop in the days of Somerset Maugham. Stars of the halcyon days of screen, Ava Gardner, Elizabeth Taylor, Jean Harlow, Charlie Chaplin frequented 'Raffles', soaking up its ambience. By the end of my weekly visits to 'Raffles', dear Ho, the manager of the 'Writers' Bar' (ex-bell bop) and I became friends. He was a fine genteel gentleman. Our parting on my final day in Singapore was quite sad. As usual, I arrived at the hotel promptly at four o'clock, to be greeted by the doorman, who now recognised me from my daily visits. I went straight to the 'Writers' Bar'. Ho organised for one of his staff to take photographs of he and me together. One photo of particular value to me is with Ho and me standing beside the giant silver roast beef trolley with its ornate silver hood. In February, 1942 the governor of Singapore ordered the destruction of all liquor stocks on the island and the manager of 'Raffles' poured most of the hotel's cellar down the drain, no doubt sadly. The Japanese arrived two days later. Most of the European population took refuge at 'Raffles'. The staff of 'Raffles' had barely time to bury the beef trolley and other valuables under the ground in the 'Palm Court' before 'Raffles' was commandeered for the use by high-ranking Japanese officers for the duration of the war. This the Singaporeans had to endure for three long years. When the Japanese finally acknowledged defeat, bodies of Japanese officers who had committed suicide had to be removed from a bedroom in 'Raffles'. One chapter had ended as a new one began.
At the end of the war, the staff of 'Raffles' dug up the beef trolley and the other valuables, returning them to their rightful places in the wonderful hotel. The silver trolley is no longer used but stands proudly in the 'Writers' Bar' for all to see. It was replaced in the fifties by a copper trolley for regular use.
I left part of my heart in the 'Writers' Bar' and 'Raffles' that final afternoon I farewelled its hallowed halls, a part I willingly donated.
A friend of mine is presently visiting Singapore causing happy memories to flood my mind of my time spent there. A number of years ago, a girlfriend and I excitedly arrived at Changi Airport around 11pm. After a bus trip to the Hyatt Hotel in Orchid Avenue, which was to be our home for the next week, we hurriedly deposited our suitcases to do a reconnaisance of the city area. This was to be the start of a wonderful week. Little time was spent in our hotel room. It became a necessity only for quick showers and re-dressing before we hit the highlights, full of high spirits again. Sleep wasn't part of our agenda! Every afternoon, without fail, at 4, I visited 'Raffles'. First I'd go to the 'Long Bar' where, for tradition-sake, I ordered a 'Singapore Sling'. From the 'Long Bar' I'd venture into the 'Tiger Bar' for a brief visit and then I'd end up at my favourite bar, the 'Writers' Bar' to soak in its rich history. There I felt surrounded by the ghosts of literary giants such as Somerset Maugham, Noel Coward, Rudyard Kipling, Herman Hesse, Joseph Conrad, et al. It's on record the manager of the 'Writers' Bar' at the time of my visits had been a bell hop in the days of Somerset Maugham. Stars of the halcyon days of screen, Ava Gardner, Elizabeth Taylor, Jean Harlow, Charlie Chaplin frequented 'Raffles', soaking up its ambience. By the end of my weekly visits to 'Raffles', dear Ho, the manager of the 'Writers' Bar' (ex-bell bop) and I became friends. He was a fine genteel gentleman. Our parting on my final day in Singapore was quite sad. As usual, I arrived at the hotel promptly at four o'clock, to be greeted by the doorman, who now recognised me from my daily visits. I went straight to the 'Writers' Bar'. Ho organised for one of his staff to take photographs of he and me together. One photo of particular value to me is with Ho and me standing beside the giant silver roast beef trolley with its ornate silver hood. In February, 1942 the governor of Singapore ordered the destruction of all liquor stocks on the island and the manager of 'Raffles' poured most of the hotel's cellar down the drain, no doubt sadly. The Japanese arrived two days later. Most of the European population took refuge at 'Raffles'. The staff of 'Raffles' had barely time to bury the beef trolley and other valuables under the ground in the 'Palm Court' before 'Raffles' was commandeered for the use by high-ranking Japanese officers for the duration of the war. This the Singaporeans had to endure for three long years. When the Japanese finally acknowledged defeat, bodies of Japanese officers who had committed suicide had to be removed from a bedroom in 'Raffles'. One chapter had ended as a new one began.
At the end of the war, the staff of 'Raffles' dug up the beef trolley and the other valuables, returning them to their rightful places in the wonderful hotel. The silver trolley is no longer used but stands proudly in the 'Writers' Bar' for all to see. It was replaced in the fifties by a copper trolley for regular use.
I left part of my heart in the 'Writers' Bar' and 'Raffles' that final afternoon I farewelled its hallowed halls, a part I willingly donated.
Wednesday, July 26, 2006
Tuesday, July 25, 2006
Too Horrific To Contemplate!
If Hamas and Hezbollah were to annihilate every Jew in Israel, can you imagine what would happen? It's too frightening to imagine. A terrorist State, governed by terrorists would prevail. This must not be allowed to happen.
The UN, EU, Clinton and all others gave too much leniency to the terrorist incarnate,Yasser Arafat, who spent his life looking and hoping for similar to occur. He was a head of state without a state. Terrorism must not win this fight!
Everyone should be made aware of (and remember always) Hussein Massawi's declaration. Massawi, the Hezbollah leader of 20 years ago, was behind the slaughter of US and French forces...he declared: "We are not fighting so that you will offer us something. We are fighting to eliminate you."
These terrorists are monsters beyond description. In 1971, Palestinian terrorists shot the prime minister of Jordan. As he fell dying, one of his killers began drinking his blood.
Blame must not be put upon the Israelis. For some reason, it is always easier for some to blame the Jews for everything. One must remember, the Israelis don't go blowing up innocent holiday-makers in Balinese nightclubs!
If Hamas and Hezbollah were to annihilate every Jew in Israel, can you imagine what would happen? It's too frightening to imagine. A terrorist State, governed by terrorists would prevail. This must not be allowed to happen.
The UN, EU, Clinton and all others gave too much leniency to the terrorist incarnate,Yasser Arafat, who spent his life looking and hoping for similar to occur. He was a head of state without a state. Terrorism must not win this fight!
Everyone should be made aware of (and remember always) Hussein Massawi's declaration. Massawi, the Hezbollah leader of 20 years ago, was behind the slaughter of US and French forces...he declared: "We are not fighting so that you will offer us something. We are fighting to eliminate you."
These terrorists are monsters beyond description. In 1971, Palestinian terrorists shot the prime minister of Jordan. As he fell dying, one of his killers began drinking his blood.
Blame must not be put upon the Israelis. For some reason, it is always easier for some to blame the Jews for everything. One must remember, the Israelis don't go blowing up innocent holiday-makers in Balinese nightclubs!
Outback Track
He wandered along an outback track unknown
With only his swag and billy he wandered alone
Sun-bleached hair skin of leather lean and robust
Sheltering his eyes from the swirling red dust
Through the shimmering haze he spotted a dry creek
As nightfall drew near the outcome looked bleak
Taking long strides determinedly he pushed on
Then he spied dancing brolgas beside a billabong
Poem and painting by Lee
He wandered along an outback track unknown
With only his swag and billy he wandered alone
Sun-bleached hair skin of leather lean and robust
Sheltering his eyes from the swirling red dust
Through the shimmering haze he spotted a dry creek
As nightfall drew near the outcome looked bleak
Taking long strides determinedly he pushed on
Then he spied dancing brolgas beside a billabong
Poem and painting by Lee
Monday, July 24, 2006
So Be It!
Here I sit alone though I don't wonder why
In silence and in the darkness I do often sigh
Over tormented thoughts of love lost I do cry
Oh! No! It's not because you were ever my guy
To you, my dear, I happily say a loud "good bye"
From my heartache I learned what it is you lack
Your cold heart is why I don't ever want you back
I'd be pleasured greatly to give your face a smack
It would please me endlessly to see you taken aback
So it's with sincere conviction I say, 'Screw you Jack!'
Here I sit alone though I don't wonder why
In silence and in the darkness I do often sigh
Over tormented thoughts of love lost I do cry
Oh! No! It's not because you were ever my guy
To you, my dear, I happily say a loud "good bye"
From my heartache I learned what it is you lack
Your cold heart is why I don't ever want you back
I'd be pleasured greatly to give your face a smack
It would please me endlessly to see you taken aback
So it's with sincere conviction I say, 'Screw you Jack!'
Lee
Times They're A-Changin'....
Self-named/appointed Islamic cleric Abdul Nacer Benbrika aka Abu Bakr, holder of dual citizenship (Algerian/Australian) and one of the 17 men arrested in Sydney and Melbourne last November, charged with membership of a terrorist organisation and of planning terrorist attacks on Australian targets, once told an ABC Radio interviewer: "Osama bin Laden, he is a great man. Osama bin Laden was a great man before 11 September, which they said he did it, until now nobody knows who did it." He went on further to defend Muslims fighting against coalition forces in Iraq and Afghanistan. And further, he said, "According to my religion, jihad is a part of my religion and what you have to understand is that anyone who fights for the sake of Allah, when he dies, the first drop of blood that comes from him will be forgiven." And: "There are two laws. There is Australian law. There is Islamic law."
He made it know that he hoped to 'kill 1000' Australians to 'please Allah'. This is a man who, born in Algeria, arrived in Australia in May, 1989 on a one-month visitor's permit. Twice he gained extensions and settled in the northern suburbs of Melbourne, an area with a large Muslim population. His permit expired in 1990 and he became a prohibited non-citizen. The next six years were spent trying to obtain the right to stay, through the Immigration Review Tribunal appeals process. During his hearings he told the Tribunal of his "love of the Australian lifestyle."
How gullible we are!
He married a Lebanese woman (an Australian citizen) in 1992 and they now have seven children (one each for them, one for Peter Costello/government and four for Allah!). In 1996 he was granted Australian residency and he became an Australian 'citizen' in 1998, as well as keeping his Algerian citizenship.
It was revealed in a Melbourne court yesterday, one of Benbrika's co-accused, a Shane Kent, received weapons and explosives training at a Taliban-run training camp for jihads in Afghanistan. It is alleged Kent committed himself to violent jihad at a meeting with bin Laden. Benbrika was proud of him, the court heard.
Benbrika, it is alleged, encouraged his devotees to plan a large-scale terrorist attack, which was foiled by police during its planning stages.
Abdulla Merhi one of Benbrika's devotees and co-accused, according to police surveillance, said he 'could wait months but not years' to carry out violent jihad. He was advised by Benbrika he/they shouldn't kill just one, two or three but do a big thing. To which Merhi responded 'Like Madrid?' Benbrika is said to have replied: 'That's it!'
These three traitors plus the other 14 should be locked up for the term of their natural lives, never to see the light of day and freedom again.
Some of the charges carry a MAXIMUM prison term of 25 years.
Merhi is 21 years old. Kent 29. Does this seem ample punishment to you? It certainly doesn't to me!
Self-named/appointed Islamic cleric Abdul Nacer Benbrika aka Abu Bakr, holder of dual citizenship (Algerian/Australian) and one of the 17 men arrested in Sydney and Melbourne last November, charged with membership of a terrorist organisation and of planning terrorist attacks on Australian targets, once told an ABC Radio interviewer: "Osama bin Laden, he is a great man. Osama bin Laden was a great man before 11 September, which they said he did it, until now nobody knows who did it." He went on further to defend Muslims fighting against coalition forces in Iraq and Afghanistan. And further, he said, "According to my religion, jihad is a part of my religion and what you have to understand is that anyone who fights for the sake of Allah, when he dies, the first drop of blood that comes from him will be forgiven." And: "There are two laws. There is Australian law. There is Islamic law."
He made it know that he hoped to 'kill 1000' Australians to 'please Allah'. This is a man who, born in Algeria, arrived in Australia in May, 1989 on a one-month visitor's permit. Twice he gained extensions and settled in the northern suburbs of Melbourne, an area with a large Muslim population. His permit expired in 1990 and he became a prohibited non-citizen. The next six years were spent trying to obtain the right to stay, through the Immigration Review Tribunal appeals process. During his hearings he told the Tribunal of his "love of the Australian lifestyle."
How gullible we are!
He married a Lebanese woman (an Australian citizen) in 1992 and they now have seven children (one each for them, one for Peter Costello/government and four for Allah!). In 1996 he was granted Australian residency and he became an Australian 'citizen' in 1998, as well as keeping his Algerian citizenship.
It was revealed in a Melbourne court yesterday, one of Benbrika's co-accused, a Shane Kent, received weapons and explosives training at a Taliban-run training camp for jihads in Afghanistan. It is alleged Kent committed himself to violent jihad at a meeting with bin Laden. Benbrika was proud of him, the court heard.
Benbrika, it is alleged, encouraged his devotees to plan a large-scale terrorist attack, which was foiled by police during its planning stages.
Abdulla Merhi one of Benbrika's devotees and co-accused, according to police surveillance, said he 'could wait months but not years' to carry out violent jihad. He was advised by Benbrika he/they shouldn't kill just one, two or three but do a big thing. To which Merhi responded 'Like Madrid?' Benbrika is said to have replied: 'That's it!'
These three traitors plus the other 14 should be locked up for the term of their natural lives, never to see the light of day and freedom again.
Some of the charges carry a MAXIMUM prison term of 25 years.
Merhi is 21 years old. Kent 29. Does this seem ample punishment to you? It certainly doesn't to me!
Sunday, July 23, 2006
Friends In High Places...
After a sudden, unexpected shower passed this afternoon, the kookaburras paid me a visit. One perched itself on the top of my back door. Its mate watched on from the lowest limb of a nearby tree. They're not afraid of me. They brazenly peck scraps of meat from my hands. Soon, through the rain-washed grass, two magpies with their black and white suits of feathers still glistening from raindrops, waddled to share in the afternoon tea. They, too, are now tame. One entered my rear room yesterday, curiously looking around him as he did so.
Somewhat disgruntled but completely intrigued, my two cats observed the goings-on from close by. With sideline glances at me, they made themselves comfortable while the birds had control of the moment. My feathered friends, fully aware of their presence as they always are, know they have the upper hand (or wing) with their dexterity of flight together with my protective presence. My cats soon lost interest, particularly when I called out to them "chop-chop!"... which heralds it's time for their dinner. With those familiar words and the sound of the knife blade being sharpened on the steel, they quickly forgot magpies and kookaburras.
After a sudden, unexpected shower passed this afternoon, the kookaburras paid me a visit. One perched itself on the top of my back door. Its mate watched on from the lowest limb of a nearby tree. They're not afraid of me. They brazenly peck scraps of meat from my hands. Soon, through the rain-washed grass, two magpies with their black and white suits of feathers still glistening from raindrops, waddled to share in the afternoon tea. They, too, are now tame. One entered my rear room yesterday, curiously looking around him as he did so.
Somewhat disgruntled but completely intrigued, my two cats observed the goings-on from close by. With sideline glances at me, they made themselves comfortable while the birds had control of the moment. My feathered friends, fully aware of their presence as they always are, know they have the upper hand (or wing) with their dexterity of flight together with my protective presence. My cats soon lost interest, particularly when I called out to them "chop-chop!"... which heralds it's time for their dinner. With those familiar words and the sound of the knife blade being sharpened on the steel, they quickly forgot magpies and kookaburras.
A Bit of Fun For a Change!
Even though our winters here aren't very cold, they certainly are a pleasant respite from the heat of our long summers. With the chill in the air, it's time to stoke up our ovens and allow our taste buds to be teased by delicious aromas of dinner roasting. Here's a tempting recipe. Serve it with a good, spicy Shiraz and you won't be disappointed.
Spiced Pork with Red Wine & Honey - Preheat oven to 220C. Season 2.5 to 2.8kg boned loin of pork, rolled and tied. Place pork in oiled roasting dish, skin side down. Roast for 20mins, turning once, until the skin is a light golden brown. Reduce oven temperature to 180C. Pour 1/2 cup honey and 500ml of Shiraz over meat. Add 3 bay leaves, 1 stick cinnamon, 1tsp whole cloves, 3 strips of orange zest and juice of the orange. Loosely cover the dish with foil. Cook for 2.5 hours. Check every so often to ensure the liquid hasn't reduced too much. Add more wine if needed. At completion, the liquid should be of a light sauce consistency. If not, pour it into a saucepan and boil until thickened and syrupy. Serve the pork with the wine sauce, roasted potatoes, parsnips, onions and apples, and steamed greens. To roast the apples: Halve small Granny Smith (green apples). Brush them with olive oil. Sprinkle some Chinese Five-Spice powder over the apples. Lay the apples skin side up in a baking dish just large enough to hold them. Roast for 30 minutes. Don't overcook them.
Bon Apetit!
Even though our winters here aren't very cold, they certainly are a pleasant respite from the heat of our long summers. With the chill in the air, it's time to stoke up our ovens and allow our taste buds to be teased by delicious aromas of dinner roasting. Here's a tempting recipe. Serve it with a good, spicy Shiraz and you won't be disappointed.
Spiced Pork with Red Wine & Honey - Preheat oven to 220C. Season 2.5 to 2.8kg boned loin of pork, rolled and tied. Place pork in oiled roasting dish, skin side down. Roast for 20mins, turning once, until the skin is a light golden brown. Reduce oven temperature to 180C. Pour 1/2 cup honey and 500ml of Shiraz over meat. Add 3 bay leaves, 1 stick cinnamon, 1tsp whole cloves, 3 strips of orange zest and juice of the orange. Loosely cover the dish with foil. Cook for 2.5 hours. Check every so often to ensure the liquid hasn't reduced too much. Add more wine if needed. At completion, the liquid should be of a light sauce consistency. If not, pour it into a saucepan and boil until thickened and syrupy. Serve the pork with the wine sauce, roasted potatoes, parsnips, onions and apples, and steamed greens. To roast the apples: Halve small Granny Smith (green apples). Brush them with olive oil. Sprinkle some Chinese Five-Spice powder over the apples. Lay the apples skin side up in a baking dish just large enough to hold them. Roast for 30 minutes. Don't overcook them.
Bon Apetit!
Saturday, July 22, 2006
Hey! True Blue!
I wonder just how many 'true blue' Aussies are trying to escape Lebanon back to Australian soil? Or are the majority of these so-called 'Australians' holders of dual citizenship? And when they return here, will they then recommence to rail against Australian culture? Our government is spending a reported $25m for their safe return to this country. One would hope that they will be grateful and, perhaps, choose to accept the culture and ways of Australia, a democracy that has proven it works. Perhaps they will reconsider and choose one nationality, that of Australian. Those who do not, should return to Lebanon, where, apparently, their allegiance lies. (After they've paid back what it cost our government/the taxpayer to get them here on this instance.)
Australians are noted for their fairness. The line has to be drawn on this. We've been more than fair, I believe.
One can't have one's cake and eat it too...it's either one thing or the other...not both!
I wonder just how many 'true blue' Aussies are trying to escape Lebanon back to Australian soil? Or are the majority of these so-called 'Australians' holders of dual citizenship? And when they return here, will they then recommence to rail against Australian culture? Our government is spending a reported $25m for their safe return to this country. One would hope that they will be grateful and, perhaps, choose to accept the culture and ways of Australia, a democracy that has proven it works. Perhaps they will reconsider and choose one nationality, that of Australian. Those who do not, should return to Lebanon, where, apparently, their allegiance lies. (After they've paid back what it cost our government/the taxpayer to get them here on this instance.)
Australians are noted for their fairness. The line has to be drawn on this. We've been more than fair, I believe.
One can't have one's cake and eat it too...it's either one thing or the other...not both!
Thursday, July 20, 2006
Strike Me Lucky! Strike Me Pink!
I've just learned a good friend of mine has found herself a man! Whether he be a brief dalliance or a long-term playmate/companion, I wish her well, either way.
I wonder where one looks to find a man!! I never seem to be able to find one but then, I really don't go looking for one (or more!) either! There are so few or none around that interest me. Mostly, the ones I come across seem too involved with themselves and their own egos to be bothered wasting my time over...what's new?
Wherefore art thou, Romeo? Ummm...that didn't work!
I've just learned a good friend of mine has found herself a man! Whether he be a brief dalliance or a long-term playmate/companion, I wish her well, either way.
I wonder where one looks to find a man!! I never seem to be able to find one but then, I really don't go looking for one (or more!) either! There are so few or none around that interest me. Mostly, the ones I come across seem too involved with themselves and their own egos to be bothered wasting my time over...what's new?
Wherefore art thou, Romeo? Ummm...that didn't work!
About Bloody Time!
Finally the courts have gotten something right! A landmark High Court decision has cleared the way for victims of childhood sexual assault to sue for damages decades after the atrocity/ies!
I'm not in favour of careless litigation but in these instances, I'm all for it! Let the bastards pay as so often the courts are far, far too lenient when handing out their sentences!
Finally the courts have gotten something right! A landmark High Court decision has cleared the way for victims of childhood sexual assault to sue for damages decades after the atrocity/ies!
I'm not in favour of careless litigation but in these instances, I'm all for it! Let the bastards pay as so often the courts are far, far too lenient when handing out their sentences!
Tragedy That Should Not Have Happened...
The horrific death of little four year old, Tyra Kuehne, attacked by three cross-breed hunting dogs is a dreadful, dreadful thing.
Owners of dogs...all dogs, but particularly hunting dogs such as these, must be accountable for them and their safe, secure keeping. My heart goes out to the family of little Tyra. One cannot imagine in one's wildest thoughts what they must be going through. Too many of these types of attacks occur and something postive must be done to prevent them from occurring.
I'm not pointing the finger at the owner of these particular dogs, (I think he's got a lot to deal with now and for the rest of his life) but so many owners of these types of dogs think it's a 'macho' thing to have them and are very careless with their care.
The horrific death of little four year old, Tyra Kuehne, attacked by three cross-breed hunting dogs is a dreadful, dreadful thing.
Owners of dogs...all dogs, but particularly hunting dogs such as these, must be accountable for them and their safe, secure keeping. My heart goes out to the family of little Tyra. One cannot imagine in one's wildest thoughts what they must be going through. Too many of these types of attacks occur and something postive must be done to prevent them from occurring.
I'm not pointing the finger at the owner of these particular dogs, (I think he's got a lot to deal with now and for the rest of his life) but so many owners of these types of dogs think it's a 'macho' thing to have them and are very careless with their care.
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