t its robust social order will endure, and ultimately thrive.
But why is this? He offers some basic points, the first of which is that Japanese life is settled. Recalling a conversation with a Japanese business executive, Lifson recalls:
“Japanese people,” he told me, “are like passengers on a cruise ship. They know that they are stuck with the same people around them for the foreseeable future, so they are polite, and behave in ways that don’t make enemies, and keep everything on a friendly and gracious basis.”
“Americans,” he said, “are like ferryboat passengers. They know that at the end of a short voyage they will get off and may never see each other again. So if they push ahead of others to get off first, there are no real consequences to face. It is every man for himself.”
The Japanese, in other words, are more rooted and socially connected, and even when they move around, they make an effort to get to know each other. This builds social capital which, as Robert Putnam found in Bowling Alone, eventually builds economic capital. What people in Britain generally call “the broken society” is in fact a collapse in social capital, from disconnected neighbourhoods to desocialised children.
Friday, March 18, 2011
Mayor Bitter Over Fukushima Safety Risks
The voice on the phone was calm and dignified, as befitted a proud Japanese mayor, yet this somehow made his fury more forceful.
Hours after the tsunami struck, Katsunobu Sakurai told me, he had sought advice from the government on whether to evacuate the 71,000 people in his city, which is just 12 miles downwind of the Fukushima nuclear plant.
At first ministerial officials simply ignored his calls. When he did manage to speak to them, they assured him there was no cause for concern; a message he accepted and dutifully relayed.
He had toed the line because that is what Japan's civic leaders invariably do. But yesterday, far too late, the mayor of Minamisoma finally realised that he had been deceived, at best, and perhaps even lied to.
'Of course I am angry,' he told me through an interpreter yesterday. 'I was ignored and then badly misled, and as a result the people were abandoned here to die.
'But I was the one who told them it was safe to stay, and now I have decided that I must be the last person to leave this city. I have been in my office since last Friday, and I won't go until the last person has left safely.'
For a city mayor to voice such sentiments at a time when his countrymen are being urged to stand together in the face of Armageddon is tantamount to mutiny.
He may not be the last to turn on prime minister Naoto Kan and his government as their platitudes and misinformation test the admirable forbearance of the Japanese public to its limits.
Hours after the tsunami struck, Katsunobu Sakurai told me, he had sought advice from the government on whether to evacuate the 71,000 people in his city, which is just 12 miles downwind of the Fukushima nuclear plant.
At first ministerial officials simply ignored his calls. When he did manage to speak to them, they assured him there was no cause for concern; a message he accepted and dutifully relayed.
He had toed the line because that is what Japan's civic leaders invariably do. But yesterday, far too late, the mayor of Minamisoma finally realised that he had been deceived, at best, and perhaps even lied to.
'Of course I am angry,' he told me through an interpreter yesterday. 'I was ignored and then badly misled, and as a result the people were abandoned here to die.
'But I was the one who told them it was safe to stay, and now I have decided that I must be the last person to leave this city. I have been in my office since last Friday, and I won't go until the last person has left safely.'
For a city mayor to voice such sentiments at a time when his countrymen are being urged to stand together in the face of Armageddon is tantamount to mutiny.
He may not be the last to turn on prime minister Naoto Kan and his government as their platitudes and misinformation test the admirable forbearance of the Japanese public to its limits.
Fukushima Fifty Knowingly Risk Death
The radiation levels at the plant entrance are at a level which will either kill the workers soon or cause them appalling illnesses in the years to come.
Experts have said that the airtight suits they are wearing would do little to stop the contamination.
The group remained behind after 700 of their colleagues fled when radiation levels became too dangerous.
Their identities have not been revealed, but experts said they are likely to be working class front-line technicians and firemen who know the plant the best.
It is thought that mostly older men have volunteered because they have already had children – younger workers might be rendered infertile by the high radiation doses.
Whilst the men are called the Fukushima Fifty, the group is thought to actually be 200-strong. They are doing four shifts in rotation, working on restarting the cooling systems.
Their heart-rending messages home were made public yesterday by Japanese national television, which has interviewed their relatives.
One relative said: 'My father is still working at the plant. He says he's accepted his fate, much like a death sentence.'
A woman said her husband who was at the plant had continued to work while fully aware he was being bombarded with radiation.
Experts have said that the airtight suits they are wearing would do little to stop the contamination.
The group remained behind after 700 of their colleagues fled when radiation levels became too dangerous.
Their identities have not been revealed, but experts said they are likely to be working class front-line technicians and firemen who know the plant the best.
It is thought that mostly older men have volunteered because they have already had children – younger workers might be rendered infertile by the high radiation doses.
Whilst the men are called the Fukushima Fifty, the group is thought to actually be 200-strong. They are doing four shifts in rotation, working on restarting the cooling systems.
Their heart-rending messages home were made public yesterday by Japanese national television, which has interviewed their relatives.
One relative said: 'My father is still working at the plant. He says he's accepted his fate, much like a death sentence.'
A woman said her husband who was at the plant had continued to work while fully aware he was being bombarded with radiation.
California Air Quality
Today the radiation levels in the US remain unaffected. This is using private monitoring systems that update every 3 minutes. No radiation in the US today.
NRC Radiation Updates
Earlier this week, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency deployed extra radiation detectors throughout the country that will send real time data via satellite to EPA officials, who will make the data available to the public online.
“A diplomat who has access to radiation tracking by the U.N.'s Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty Organization told The Associated Press in Vienna that initial readings show tiny amounts of radiation have reached California. But it's not dangerous in any way — ‘about a billion times beneath levels that would be health threatening,’ the diplomat said, speaking on condition of anonymity because the organization does not make its findings public,” the Associated Press reports.
“A diplomat who has access to radiation tracking by the U.N.'s Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty Organization told The Associated Press in Vienna that initial readings show tiny amounts of radiation have reached California. But it's not dangerous in any way — ‘about a billion times beneath levels that would be health threatening,’ the diplomat said, speaking on condition of anonymity because the organization does not make its findings public,” the Associated Press reports.
Nuclear Chief Weeps
The boss of the company behind the devastated Japanese nuclear reactor today broke down in tears - as his country finally acknowledged the radiation spewing from the over-heating reactors and fuel rods was enough to kill some citizens
Japan's Nuclear and Industrial Safety Agency admitted that the disaster was a level 5, which is classified as a crisis causing 'several radiation deaths' by the UN International Atomic Energy.
Officials said the rating was raised after they realised the full extent of the radiation leaking from the plant. They also said that 3 per cent of the fuel in three of the reactors at the Fukushima plant had been severely damaged, suggesting those reactor cores have partially melted dow
# Officials admit they may have to bury reactors under concrete - as happened at Chernobyl
# Government says it was overwhelmed by the scale of twin disasters
# Japanese upgrade accident from level four to five - the same as Three Mile Island
# We will rebuild from scratch says Japanese prime minister
# Particles spewed from wrecked Fukushima power station arrive in California
# Military trucks tackle reactors with tons of water for second day
Japan's Nuclear and Industrial Safety Agency admitted that the disaster was a level 5, which is classified as a crisis causing 'several radiation deaths' by the UN International Atomic Energy.
Officials said the rating was raised after they realised the full extent of the radiation leaking from the plant. They also said that 3 per cent of the fuel in three of the reactors at the Fukushima plant had been severely damaged, suggesting those reactor cores have partially melted dow
# Officials admit they may have to bury reactors under concrete - as happened at Chernobyl
# Government says it was overwhelmed by the scale of twin disasters
# Japanese upgrade accident from level four to five - the same as Three Mile Island
# We will rebuild from scratch says Japanese prime minister
# Particles spewed from wrecked Fukushima power station arrive in California
# Military trucks tackle reactors with tons of water for second day
Ring Of Fire Earthquake Map
Do We Face the 'Big One' and Soon?
Prescient geologist Jim Berkland says yes
The Earth is living, moving and continually active. Where and how we live has a very significant impact on how any disaster will effect us. Living in a high rise building in a huge city with few roads out of town will create a different scenario that where we are.
For example. We are 12 miles outside of SmallTown USA. The small town is <4,000, population, the entire county is <20,000. Portland Oregon is 2.5 hours away, Seattle is almost 5 hours away. No tall buildings here, plenty of game, fish and open areas. This type of area is where many city people will try to find friendly faces if they need to get out of Dodge.
Most people have gardens, can food, have private water wells, many are off grid and are already on the "leading edge" of being poor. You can't eat money though, can you?
It's good that we use our own intelligence to evaluate risks and try to avoid them. Just like calling ahead for a winter pass report. No point in charging head first into an avalanche if we can avoid it.
We can't control the winds, we can only adjust our sails and act accordingly. No matter what happens in the days to come, we'll all be making some type of preparation, adjusting our sails and try to stay informed. Not much point in a panic.
Bridges you cross before you get to them, are over rivers that aren't there....not my quote, but a good one, don't you think?
Prescient geologist Jim Berkland says yes
The Earth is living, moving and continually active. Where and how we live has a very significant impact on how any disaster will effect us. Living in a high rise building in a huge city with few roads out of town will create a different scenario that where we are.
For example. We are 12 miles outside of SmallTown USA. The small town is <4,000, population, the entire county is <20,000. Portland Oregon is 2.5 hours away, Seattle is almost 5 hours away. No tall buildings here, plenty of game, fish and open areas. This type of area is where many city people will try to find friendly faces if they need to get out of Dodge.
Most people have gardens, can food, have private water wells, many are off grid and are already on the "leading edge" of being poor. You can't eat money though, can you?
It's good that we use our own intelligence to evaluate risks and try to avoid them. Just like calling ahead for a winter pass report. No point in charging head first into an avalanche if we can avoid it.
We can't control the winds, we can only adjust our sails and act accordingly. No matter what happens in the days to come, we'll all be making some type of preparation, adjusting our sails and try to stay informed. Not much point in a panic.
Bridges you cross before you get to them, are over rivers that aren't there....not my quote, but a good one, don't you think?
North American Interactive Weather Map
March 18, in South Central Washington state, we have a weather pressure system off of the coast that is currently keeping any radiation from reaching Vancouver, Ca. some areas of Alaska, Washington, Oregon, Northern California.
National Weather Service scroll down to see pressure system.
Important action items to take right now
If you live in the western states or provinces of North America, it is extremely important to be prepared by taking the following actions RIGHT NOW:
1) Fuel up your vehicle(s) and be ready to hit the road for a possible evacuation (or hunker down if you're out in the country and feel like you would be safer there).
2) If you plan to stay put, go to the hardware store TODAY and buy large amounts of plastic sheeting and duct tape to seal up your windows and doors. This will help protect you from radioactive fallout. You will also need to store water, food, and all the usual emergency supplies because outside help probably won't be available.
3) If you plan to evacuate, have a "Go Bag" ready to go at a moment's notice. This go bag should include a water filter, emergency radio, flashlight, duct tape, emergency knife, spare cash, whatever medical supplies you might need, extra food and water, spare fuel cans and so on. Have it ready now in case you need it.
4) Significantly increase your intake of iodine-containing foods and superfoods starting right now: Seaweeds are a great source. We've listed our entire inventory of what we have available at our store (http://www.naturalnews.com/031730_i...), but I would actually prefer you to go out and get this locally TODAY at your local health food stores, where possible. You may not have time to wait on a UPS delivery. Fortunately, our store ships from Ojai, California, meaning that if you order foods from us today that are in stock, and you're in California, you could receive them very, very quickly (within 1-2 business days).
5) If you have potassium iodide pills (radiation pills), don't take them yet. Keep them ready to take if and only if a meltdown event occurs and a massive dose of radiation has been released into the atmosphere.
6) Have a plan for you and your family. Where will you meet if you need to evacuate? Don't count on cell phones working. Have a plan of where to go, how to get there and how to survive once you get there.
Why you probably won't be told the truth on all this by "official" sources
Hopefully none of this will be necessary. If they can stop the meltdown at Fukushima, there is virtually no real radiation risk in North America. That's the outcome we're all hoping and praying for.
But if a meltdown takes place, it is almost certain that strong winds will push a massive radiation cloud right into North America within a matter of days, potentially dropping an extremely dangerous quantity of radioactive material on California or other regions. That's the scenario that we all need to be prepared to guard against.
Do not rely on your government to tell you the truth about what's happening. Governments are in the business of "preventing panic" by withholding information you need to know. Governments believe that if too many people know the truth, it might start a panic, and even more people could die in the panic than from the event itself. They may actually be correct at some level on that, but I believe that people have a right to know what's really going on. And the sober, shocking truth of the matter is that as of right now, our world is facing an unprecedented nuclear meltdown event that could dwarf the Chernobyl catastrophe of 1986. We're talking about as many as 600,000 spent fuel rods which are now threatened by fires and loss of cooling fluids. This is not a set of circumstances to be taken lightly.
National Weather Service scroll down to see pressure system.
Important action items to take right now
If you live in the western states or provinces of North America, it is extremely important to be prepared by taking the following actions RIGHT NOW:
1) Fuel up your vehicle(s) and be ready to hit the road for a possible evacuation (or hunker down if you're out in the country and feel like you would be safer there).
2) If you plan to stay put, go to the hardware store TODAY and buy large amounts of plastic sheeting and duct tape to seal up your windows and doors. This will help protect you from radioactive fallout. You will also need to store water, food, and all the usual emergency supplies because outside help probably won't be available.
3) If you plan to evacuate, have a "Go Bag" ready to go at a moment's notice. This go bag should include a water filter, emergency radio, flashlight, duct tape, emergency knife, spare cash, whatever medical supplies you might need, extra food and water, spare fuel cans and so on. Have it ready now in case you need it.
4) Significantly increase your intake of iodine-containing foods and superfoods starting right now: Seaweeds are a great source. We've listed our entire inventory of what we have available at our store (http://www.naturalnews.com/031730_i...), but I would actually prefer you to go out and get this locally TODAY at your local health food stores, where possible. You may not have time to wait on a UPS delivery. Fortunately, our store ships from Ojai, California, meaning that if you order foods from us today that are in stock, and you're in California, you could receive them very, very quickly (within 1-2 business days).
5) If you have potassium iodide pills (radiation pills), don't take them yet. Keep them ready to take if and only if a meltdown event occurs and a massive dose of radiation has been released into the atmosphere.
6) Have a plan for you and your family. Where will you meet if you need to evacuate? Don't count on cell phones working. Have a plan of where to go, how to get there and how to survive once you get there.
Why you probably won't be told the truth on all this by "official" sources
Hopefully none of this will be necessary. If they can stop the meltdown at Fukushima, there is virtually no real radiation risk in North America. That's the outcome we're all hoping and praying for.
But if a meltdown takes place, it is almost certain that strong winds will push a massive radiation cloud right into North America within a matter of days, potentially dropping an extremely dangerous quantity of radioactive material on California or other regions. That's the scenario that we all need to be prepared to guard against.
Do not rely on your government to tell you the truth about what's happening. Governments are in the business of "preventing panic" by withholding information you need to know. Governments believe that if too many people know the truth, it might start a panic, and even more people could die in the panic than from the event itself. They may actually be correct at some level on that, but I believe that people have a right to know what's really going on. And the sober, shocking truth of the matter is that as of right now, our world is facing an unprecedented nuclear meltdown event that could dwarf the Chernobyl catastrophe of 1986. We're talking about as many as 600,000 spent fuel rods which are now threatened by fires and loss of cooling fluids. This is not a set of circumstances to be taken lightly.
Radiation Map US
A forecast by the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty Organization shows how weather patterns this week might disperse radiation from a continuous source in Fukushima, Japan. The forecast does not show actual levels of radiation, but it does allow the organization to estimate when different monitoring stations, marked with small dots, might be able to detect extremely low levels of radiation. Health and nuclear experts emphasize that any plume will be diluted as it travels and, at worst, would have extremely minor health consequences in the United States.
Radioactive Cloud May Never Arrive
But Russian radiation levels remain completely normal, and doctors are forced into sounding a different kind of alarm.
“If anything really serious happens there, consume large amounts of iodine, or red wine – that's what people often say. But such things won't help,” explained a local physician, Seymon Matseplishvili. “Quite the reverse: they may seriously damage health, because iodine blocks thyroid function, and it may well happen, and probably will, that while everything in Japan goes back to normal, many of our people will have problems with their thyroid glands.”
Everyone wants to be on top of official reports. Preparing for the unknown, many go even further, buying personal radiation meters – Geiger counters. Price is no object.
“In the last three days we sold out our monthly stock of Geiger counters. We now have to turn to our suppliers for an additional shipment,” said Skogorev Ivan, director general of the Vladivostok-based PrimTechnoligoes.
Taking reasonable precautions is reasonable, unless panic threatens to become worse than the catastrophe itself. That was the case with the outbreak of the H1N1 swine flu virus, which helped drugs companies earn billions. Today, in Russia's Far East, the transportation industry and pharmacies are cashing in on the panic. But at stake is the region's largest business: fishing. It accounts for 80 percent of the economy in Vladivostok, Russia's largest city on the Pacific Ocean.
Local restaurants, offering fresh seafood from the waters off Japan, are already losing clients. Customers are afraid of radioactive fish. If the hysteria continues, wholesale fish markets could be next to suffer, meaning no silver lining to a radioactive cloud that may never arrive.
“If anything really serious happens there, consume large amounts of iodine, or red wine – that's what people often say. But such things won't help,” explained a local physician, Seymon Matseplishvili. “Quite the reverse: they may seriously damage health, because iodine blocks thyroid function, and it may well happen, and probably will, that while everything in Japan goes back to normal, many of our people will have problems with their thyroid glands.”
Everyone wants to be on top of official reports. Preparing for the unknown, many go even further, buying personal radiation meters – Geiger counters. Price is no object.
“In the last three days we sold out our monthly stock of Geiger counters. We now have to turn to our suppliers for an additional shipment,” said Skogorev Ivan, director general of the Vladivostok-based PrimTechnoligoes.
Taking reasonable precautions is reasonable, unless panic threatens to become worse than the catastrophe itself. That was the case with the outbreak of the H1N1 swine flu virus, which helped drugs companies earn billions. Today, in Russia's Far East, the transportation industry and pharmacies are cashing in on the panic. But at stake is the region's largest business: fishing. It accounts for 80 percent of the economy in Vladivostok, Russia's largest city on the Pacific Ocean.
Local restaurants, offering fresh seafood from the waters off Japan, are already losing clients. Customers are afraid of radioactive fish. If the hysteria continues, wholesale fish markets could be next to suffer, meaning no silver lining to a radioactive cloud that may never arrive.
Japanese Radiation Reaches US West Coast
The first detection of radiation from Japan has been recorded along the West Coast of the United States, but the UN insists the levels of radiation are far below dangerous levels.
NOTE: CHECK US RADIATION LEVELS updated every 3 minutes. I do not see any high levels.
The UN's Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty Organization initially issued a statement alleging a radioactive plume could hit California by March 18 – they were right.
American health and nuclear officials, and US President Barack Obama himself have repeatedly said there is no real threat of radiation from Japan and any detected radiation would be in the safe zone.
However, many are still worried.
US suppliers of Geiger counters, gas masks, anti-radiation tablets and pet shelters are selling out of their supplies, many having to place back orders.
Obama has called for calm across the nation, asking the American people to trust the government. His words have had little impact as the people openly knock the information coming from the US and Japanese governments, and even the UN.
NOTE: CHECK US RADIATION LEVELS updated every 3 minutes. I do not see any high levels.
The UN's Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty Organization initially issued a statement alleging a radioactive plume could hit California by March 18 – they were right.
American health and nuclear officials, and US President Barack Obama himself have repeatedly said there is no real threat of radiation from Japan and any detected radiation would be in the safe zone.
However, many are still worried.
US suppliers of Geiger counters, gas masks, anti-radiation tablets and pet shelters are selling out of their supplies, many having to place back orders.
Obama has called for calm across the nation, asking the American people to trust the government. His words have had little impact as the people openly knock the information coming from the US and Japanese governments, and even the UN.
Venezuela Halts Nuclear Plans
Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez says he is freezing plans to develop a nuclear energy programme in the light of the crisis in Japan.
Venezuela signed a deal with a Russian company last year to develop a nuclear power plant over the next decade.
But Mr Chavez said events in Japan showed the dangers of developing nuclear power were too great.
Chile has said it still aims to sign a nuclear accord with the US next week despite the crisis in Japan.
Countries around the world have been reconsidering their nuclear policies in the face of the crisis at Japan's Fukushima nuclear complex triggered by last week's huge earthquake and tsunami.
President Chavez said he was calling off Venezuela's plans to build a nuclear plant.
"It is something extremely risky and dangerous for the whole world," he said.
"Despite the great technology and advances that Japan has, look at what is happening with some of its nuclear reactors.
Venezuela signed a deal with a Russian company last year to develop a nuclear power plant over the next decade.
But Mr Chavez said events in Japan showed the dangers of developing nuclear power were too great.
Chile has said it still aims to sign a nuclear accord with the US next week despite the crisis in Japan.
Countries around the world have been reconsidering their nuclear policies in the face of the crisis at Japan's Fukushima nuclear complex triggered by last week's huge earthquake and tsunami.
President Chavez said he was calling off Venezuela's plans to build a nuclear plant.
"It is something extremely risky and dangerous for the whole world," he said.
"Despite the great technology and advances that Japan has, look at what is happening with some of its nuclear reactors.
US Military & Social Networks
The U.S. military are developing software to spread pro-U.S. propaganda via fake accounts on popular social networking websites such as Facebook and Twitter, Guardian wrote.
U.S. Central Command (Centcom), which oversees US armed operations in the Middle East and Central Asia, awarded a contract to develop an "online persona management service," allowing one serviceperson to control and manage up to 10 fake identities.
The fake personas, known as "sock puppets," would have a convincing background, history and other details, and will influence online conversations "without fear of being discovered by sophisticated adversaries."
"The technology supports classified blogging activities on foreign-language websites to enable Centcom to counter violent extremist and enemy propaganda outside the U.S.," Guardian quoted Centcom spokesman Commander Bill Speaks as saying.
U.S. Central Command (Centcom), which oversees US armed operations in the Middle East and Central Asia, awarded a contract to develop an "online persona management service," allowing one serviceperson to control and manage up to 10 fake identities.
The fake personas, known as "sock puppets," would have a convincing background, history and other details, and will influence online conversations "without fear of being discovered by sophisticated adversaries."
"The technology supports classified blogging activities on foreign-language websites to enable Centcom to counter violent extremist and enemy propaganda outside the U.S.," Guardian quoted Centcom spokesman Commander Bill Speaks as saying.
Tokyto Electric To Build Nuclear Plant In US Gulf
I need to speak to you, not as a reporter, but in my former capacity as lead investigator in several government nuclear plant fraud and racketeering investigations.
I don't know the law in Japan, so I can't tell you if Tokyo Electric Power Co (TEPCO) can plead insanity to the homicides about to happen.
But what will Obama plead? The Administration, just months ago, asked Congress to provide a $4 billion loan guarantee for two new nuclear reactors to be built and operated on the Gulf Coast of Texas — by Tokyo Electric Power and local partners. As if the Gulf hasn't suffered enough.
Here are the facts about Tokyo Electric and the industry you haven't heard on CNN:
The failure of emergency systems at Japan's nuclear plants comes as no surprise to those of us who have worked in the field.
Nuclear plants the world over must be certified for what is called "SQ" or "Seismic Qualification." That is, the owners swear that all components are designed for the maximum conceivable shaking event, be it from an earthquake or an exploding Christmas card from Al Qaeda.
The most inexpensive way to meet your SQ is to lie. The industry does it all the time. The government team I worked with caught them once, in 1988, at the Shoreham plant in New York. Correcting the SQ problem at Shoreham would have cost a cool billion, so engineers were told to change the tests from 'failed' to 'passed.'
The company that put in the false safety report? Stone & Webster, now the nuclear unit of Shaw Construction which will work with Tokyo Electric to build the Texas plant, Lord help us.
There's more.
Last night I heard CNN reporters repeat the official line that the tsunami disabled the pumps needed to cool the reactors, implying that water unexpectedly got into the diesel generators that run the pumps.
These safety back-up systems are the 'EDGs' in nuke-speak: Emergency Diesel Generators. That they didn't work in an emergency is like a fire department telling us they couldn't save a building because "it was on fire."
I don't know the law in Japan, so I can't tell you if Tokyo Electric Power Co (TEPCO) can plead insanity to the homicides about to happen.
But what will Obama plead? The Administration, just months ago, asked Congress to provide a $4 billion loan guarantee for two new nuclear reactors to be built and operated on the Gulf Coast of Texas — by Tokyo Electric Power and local partners. As if the Gulf hasn't suffered enough.
Here are the facts about Tokyo Electric and the industry you haven't heard on CNN:
The failure of emergency systems at Japan's nuclear plants comes as no surprise to those of us who have worked in the field.
Nuclear plants the world over must be certified for what is called "SQ" or "Seismic Qualification." That is, the owners swear that all components are designed for the maximum conceivable shaking event, be it from an earthquake or an exploding Christmas card from Al Qaeda.
The most inexpensive way to meet your SQ is to lie. The industry does it all the time. The government team I worked with caught them once, in 1988, at the Shoreham plant in New York. Correcting the SQ problem at Shoreham would have cost a cool billion, so engineers were told to change the tests from 'failed' to 'passed.'
The company that put in the false safety report? Stone & Webster, now the nuclear unit of Shaw Construction which will work with Tokyo Electric to build the Texas plant, Lord help us.
There's more.
Last night I heard CNN reporters repeat the official line that the tsunami disabled the pumps needed to cool the reactors, implying that water unexpectedly got into the diesel generators that run the pumps.
These safety back-up systems are the 'EDGs' in nuke-speak: Emergency Diesel Generators. That they didn't work in an emergency is like a fire department telling us they couldn't save a building because "it was on fire."
Radiation Levels
Radiation Levels - As of this morning, background radiation levels from our stations on the West Coast still look pretty normal, when disregarding the randomness of background radiation in the first place. As an indication of foreign radiation moving into the environment, such as a gamma laden cloud, keep on the lookout for a sustained increase and trend in background levels over time, to where multiple stations start averaging first in the 40's, the 50's, and 60's to 100 CPM range. Keep in mind that spikes and troughs in readings for any one minute are not relevant - only average readings at a sustained rate are meaningful.
bullet You have responded! - We asked you to set up your own Monitoring Station, and the response has been overwhelming, and you are already seeing new Stations popping up on the map. Unfortunately, we have sold out of Geiger Counters for the time being, and that is now the limiting factor. Until we are re-supplied, I can tell you that there are already tens of thousands of compatible Geiger counters already out in the marketplace, from acquisitions over the last 20 years, that are in the hands of your local Fire Departments, or collecting dust in drawers in homes, businesses, and universities. So review again the compatible models listed on the Map page, and if you know someone in that category, see if they can't put those detectors to work. We can supply the required Software and Data Cables to "plug in" to the Network.
bullet Media Coverage - Our work and your interest is paying off. Just in the last two days, we have seen media coverage from, and done interviews with everyone from the New York Times to Fox News, along with a myriad of talk shows, alternative media, local press, and TV network affiliates. At a time when our government continues to assure of us of no radiation danger, yet fails to follow that up with actual collection data, the media is noticing that our network is one of the few resources where concerned Americans can obtain data on actual radiation levels in at least some locations in the US.
bullet Alert Level - You are an astute group! A few of you already noticed that we recently lowered the Alert Level for the Map from 130 to 100 CPM. It was probably too high in the first place. The optimal setting for a Radiation Alert is one that is not so low as to invite false alerts from momentary spikes in radiation, yet not so high as to defeat its original purpose.
bullet You have responded! - We asked you to set up your own Monitoring Station, and the response has been overwhelming, and you are already seeing new Stations popping up on the map. Unfortunately, we have sold out of Geiger Counters for the time being, and that is now the limiting factor. Until we are re-supplied, I can tell you that there are already tens of thousands of compatible Geiger counters already out in the marketplace, from acquisitions over the last 20 years, that are in the hands of your local Fire Departments, or collecting dust in drawers in homes, businesses, and universities. So review again the compatible models listed on the Map page, and if you know someone in that category, see if they can't put those detectors to work. We can supply the required Software and Data Cables to "plug in" to the Network.
bullet Media Coverage - Our work and your interest is paying off. Just in the last two days, we have seen media coverage from, and done interviews with everyone from the New York Times to Fox News, along with a myriad of talk shows, alternative media, local press, and TV network affiliates. At a time when our government continues to assure of us of no radiation danger, yet fails to follow that up with actual collection data, the media is noticing that our network is one of the few resources where concerned Americans can obtain data on actual radiation levels in at least some locations in the US.
bullet Alert Level - You are an astute group! A few of you already noticed that we recently lowered the Alert Level for the Map from 130 to 100 CPM. It was probably too high in the first place. The optimal setting for a Radiation Alert is one that is not so low as to invite false alerts from momentary spikes in radiation, yet not so high as to defeat its original purpose.
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Animals Need Protection Too
Our 40+ pooches are quite happily taking their 3 drops (100 lb+ dogs) of iodine daily on their dog cookies.
If you don't like the thought of swallowing any type of Iodine, then there is another even better option that I like. The bottoms of our feet have all of the acupuncture meridian lines that circle down and back through out body. Whatever you place on the soles of your feet will travel to all of your organs, including the thyroid.
You can experiment by rubbing crushed garlic on the soles of your feet and 20 minutes later you will have sweet garlic breath.
I prefer Iodine delivery on the soles of my feet.
Dogs, horses, cattle etc will also eat various clays found naturally or those you place in their feed & water. When we use organic apple cider vinegar in their water, they drink more water than they do without it.
Animals are great self healers. When ill, they too seek the best remedies found in nature. Tasting this herb, rejecting another, looking for specific grasses, rejecting others.
If you don't like the thought of swallowing any type of Iodine, then there is another even better option that I like. The bottoms of our feet have all of the acupuncture meridian lines that circle down and back through out body. Whatever you place on the soles of your feet will travel to all of your organs, including the thyroid.
You can experiment by rubbing crushed garlic on the soles of your feet and 20 minutes later you will have sweet garlic breath.
I prefer Iodine delivery on the soles of my feet.
Dogs, horses, cattle etc will also eat various clays found naturally or those you place in their feed & water. When we use organic apple cider vinegar in their water, they drink more water than they do without it.
Animals are great self healers. When ill, they too seek the best remedies found in nature. Tasting this herb, rejecting another, looking for specific grasses, rejecting others.
Organic Iodine
Znzymes & Nascent Iodine
Nascent Iodine & Clay Detox
How is organic iodine different than iodine?
The mineral, iodine is highly poisonous as basic element and it takes only three grains to kill you. When a plant absorbs iodine (or any minerals) from the soil or mineral it converts it to an non-toxic organic form (or better described as colloidal form). Organic (colloidal) Mineral research became popular in the 1930's and a leading researcher, Dr Watson demonstrated drinking a glass full of colloidal iodine to show its safety. As no land based food containing iodine can easily be identified (even organic foods), there is only seaweed and seafoods in high quantities containing organic iodine.
The closest you can get (and what my family take) to Organic Iodine is the product Nascent Iodine Why boost my organic iodine levels to protect against radiation? If your body does not get enough of any mineral and in this case iodine then your body may take in the next (available) mineral on the periodic table.
Radioactivity contains radioactive iodine and therefore anyone deficient in iodine is at risk of absorbing this radioactive iodine which will end up all over the body in all of the places where iodine is used and especially the thyroid.
Radioactive Iodine has a life of 15 million years and so supplementation is essential throughout the lives of anyone exposed to radioactivity. Therefore the important thing is to get iodine into your body in a safe supplement form. This does not have to be "potassium iodide" if there is a safer supplement is available. It can also be in the form of Nascent Iodine, which is a high-quality iodine supplement that has been available in the natural product marketplace for several years. (Do NOT drink topical antiseptic iodine products as they may be toxic). To protect against radioactive contamination take 10-drops of Nascent Iodine 4 times per day.
Nascent Iodine & Clay Detox
How is organic iodine different than iodine?
The mineral, iodine is highly poisonous as basic element and it takes only three grains to kill you. When a plant absorbs iodine (or any minerals) from the soil or mineral it converts it to an non-toxic organic form (or better described as colloidal form). Organic (colloidal) Mineral research became popular in the 1930's and a leading researcher, Dr Watson demonstrated drinking a glass full of colloidal iodine to show its safety. As no land based food containing iodine can easily be identified (even organic foods), there is only seaweed and seafoods in high quantities containing organic iodine.
The closest you can get (and what my family take) to Organic Iodine is the product Nascent Iodine Why boost my organic iodine levels to protect against radiation? If your body does not get enough of any mineral and in this case iodine then your body may take in the next (available) mineral on the periodic table.
Radioactivity contains radioactive iodine and therefore anyone deficient in iodine is at risk of absorbing this radioactive iodine which will end up all over the body in all of the places where iodine is used and especially the thyroid.
Radioactive Iodine has a life of 15 million years and so supplementation is essential throughout the lives of anyone exposed to radioactivity. Therefore the important thing is to get iodine into your body in a safe supplement form. This does not have to be "potassium iodide" if there is a safer supplement is available. It can also be in the form of Nascent Iodine, which is a high-quality iodine supplement that has been available in the natural product marketplace for several years. (Do NOT drink topical antiseptic iodine products as they may be toxic). To protect against radioactive contamination take 10-drops of Nascent Iodine 4 times per day.
No Panic Here, Turn Off The TV
How do we know what to believe and what to dismiss? How are we able to separate fact from fiction or fact from self serving agendas or from out right misrepresentations?
How do we trust the person or media who is telling us something? Are they telling us or providing information for us to make our own decisions regarding eating right and natural healing?
Today, finding a truth is easier than ever, there are no important secrets floating around out there that don't eventually have a thread to the Internet.
Everything is at our finger tips....there is literally access to every major university in the world, the worlds libraries, newspapers and wire services. That isn't to imply that if it's online, it's a sacred truth, no more so than any other form of media
The Internet is simply an amazing tool we can use to quickly sift through enormous amounts of information about natural health, complimentary and alternative medicine, medicinal herbs and read stories form folks who believe in them. Research that used to take days and weeks pouring through libraries now can be accessed in minutes!
Our Friendly Telescreen?
Sixty years of television has changed this country, it's an invited guest into most of our homes, it serves as a baby sitter, it fills the silence of an empty room, it enables busy lives to be entertained 24/7, it helps people unwind after long commutes, it shows the latest fashions world wide, provides weather and news.
Or is it more than that?
Many believe that watching TV is a harmless, entertaining activity worthy of our attention, but there are some eye-opening things to consider. The average American family watches about 5 hours daily.
Television is essentially a platform for elite advertisers and policy leaders of the dominant society to peddle their wares by directly touching your emotions with a steady stream of images that distract your process of logical thinking.
How do we trust the person or media who is telling us something? Are they telling us or providing information for us to make our own decisions regarding eating right and natural healing?
Today, finding a truth is easier than ever, there are no important secrets floating around out there that don't eventually have a thread to the Internet.
Everything is at our finger tips....there is literally access to every major university in the world, the worlds libraries, newspapers and wire services. That isn't to imply that if it's online, it's a sacred truth, no more so than any other form of media
The Internet is simply an amazing tool we can use to quickly sift through enormous amounts of information about natural health, complimentary and alternative medicine, medicinal herbs and read stories form folks who believe in them. Research that used to take days and weeks pouring through libraries now can be accessed in minutes!
Our Friendly Telescreen?
Sixty years of television has changed this country, it's an invited guest into most of our homes, it serves as a baby sitter, it fills the silence of an empty room, it enables busy lives to be entertained 24/7, it helps people unwind after long commutes, it shows the latest fashions world wide, provides weather and news.
Or is it more than that?
Many believe that watching TV is a harmless, entertaining activity worthy of our attention, but there are some eye-opening things to consider. The average American family watches about 5 hours daily.
Television is essentially a platform for elite advertisers and policy leaders of the dominant society to peddle their wares by directly touching your emotions with a steady stream of images that distract your process of logical thinking.
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
Cesium 137 Detox
All nuclear waste is mixed with Zeolite clay before packaging and stored underground because it helps prevent radioactivity from seeping into the ground after prolonged storage. Surprisingly, the Zeolites are stable even under the highest levels of radiation, a fact proven after the fissions reactor meltdowns at both Three Mile Island and Chernobyl where Zeolites were used to mop up the waste caused by the accidents.
The British Nuclear Fuels (BNF) also uses a specific type of Zeolite clay to remove radioactive strontium and cesium - 137 and, therefore, reduces the radioactivity of liquid waste discharged into the Irish Sea. The Hanford, Washington nuclear weapons facilities are lined with clay to prevent contamination.
A Swedish study showed another kind of Zeolite could decontaminate live animals and meat affected by the Chemobyl disaster.
Most people know about the dietary or edible clays (Bentonite, Kaolin, Red Clay (Morocco), Fuller’s Earth, French Green clay, Montmorillonite, etc.) and in particular Bentonite clay, which is often part of colonic detoxification regimes because it can absorb heavy metals and contaminants in the intestines.
There are over 200 different types of Bentonite clay, and the problem with many of these Bentonites is that they have extremely high aluminum content. So you don’t want to be ingesting the clay without knowing what is in it. Years ago the same problem existed with various colloidal mineral solutions in that they were choked full of alumina and heavy metals that people were ingesting. Some Bentonite clays are composed of 65-75% aluminum!
The British Nuclear Fuels (BNF) also uses a specific type of Zeolite clay to remove radioactive strontium and cesium - 137 and, therefore, reduces the radioactivity of liquid waste discharged into the Irish Sea. The Hanford, Washington nuclear weapons facilities are lined with clay to prevent contamination.
A Swedish study showed another kind of Zeolite could decontaminate live animals and meat affected by the Chemobyl disaster.
Most people know about the dietary or edible clays (Bentonite, Kaolin, Red Clay (Morocco), Fuller’s Earth, French Green clay, Montmorillonite, etc.) and in particular Bentonite clay, which is often part of colonic detoxification regimes because it can absorb heavy metals and contaminants in the intestines.
There are over 200 different types of Bentonite clay, and the problem with many of these Bentonites is that they have extremely high aluminum content. So you don’t want to be ingesting the clay without knowing what is in it. Years ago the same problem existed with various colloidal mineral solutions in that they were choked full of alumina and heavy metals that people were ingesting. Some Bentonite clays are composed of 65-75% aluminum!
We Are All Related
This time of extreme adversity and tragedy that is unfolding in Japan gives the world an opportunity to reflect and realize how truly connected we are to that common thread that is woven to each of us.
If we stand on a lake and cast a stone, we can be sure that the ripples will reach the other side of the lake. If we stand in a circle and I toss a ball of string to one person, still holding my end, and they toss the ball of string to another person. In a short period of time we are all connected.
while miles may separate us, customs & language give us unique personalities, our humanness is the same, irrespective of the continent.
As we honor the valor, courage & dignity of the Japanese as they fight for the Nuclear Reactor containment, let's remember the words of another heroic personality:
“You must teach your children that the ground beneath their feet is the ashes of your grandfathers. So that they will respect the land, tell your children that the earth is rich with the lives of our kin. Teach your children what we have taught our children, that the earth is our mother. Whatever befalls the earth befalls the sons of the earth. If men spit upon the ground, they spit upon themselves.”
If we stand on a lake and cast a stone, we can be sure that the ripples will reach the other side of the lake. If we stand in a circle and I toss a ball of string to one person, still holding my end, and they toss the ball of string to another person. In a short period of time we are all connected.
while miles may separate us, customs & language give us unique personalities, our humanness is the same, irrespective of the continent.
As we honor the valor, courage & dignity of the Japanese as they fight for the Nuclear Reactor containment, let's remember the words of another heroic personality:
“You must teach your children that the ground beneath their feet is the ashes of your grandfathers. So that they will respect the land, tell your children that the earth is rich with the lives of our kin. Teach your children what we have taught our children, that the earth is our mother. Whatever befalls the earth befalls the sons of the earth. If men spit upon the ground, they spit upon themselves.”
Feds Deploy Radiation Monitoring Equip to West Coast
SAN FRANCISCO – More radiation monitors are being deployed in the western United States and Pacific territories, as officials seek to mollify public concern over exposure from damaged nuclear plants in Japan, federal environmental regulators said.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency already monitors radiation throughout the area as part of its RadNet system, which measures levels in air, drinking water, milk and rain.
The additional monitors are being deployed in response to the ongoing nuclear crisis in Japan, where emergency workers are attempting to cool overheated reactors damaged by last week's magnitude-9.0 earthquake and tsunami.
Officials with the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission said they do not expect harmful radiation levels to reach the U.S. from Japan.
"The agency decided out of an abundance of caution to send these deployable monitors in order to get some monitors on the ground closer to Japan," said Jonathan Edwards, director of EPA's radiation protection division.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency already monitors radiation throughout the area as part of its RadNet system, which measures levels in air, drinking water, milk and rain.
The additional monitors are being deployed in response to the ongoing nuclear crisis in Japan, where emergency workers are attempting to cool overheated reactors damaged by last week's magnitude-9.0 earthquake and tsunami.
Officials with the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission said they do not expect harmful radiation levels to reach the U.S. from Japan.
"The agency decided out of an abundance of caution to send these deployable monitors in order to get some monitors on the ground closer to Japan," said Jonathan Edwards, director of EPA's radiation protection division.
Fed Seize Potassium Iodide
U.S. Supplies of potassium iodide pills are taking a huge hit as people flock to the stores in search of protection from possible nuclear fallout.
A number of stores across the west coast are reporting that they are completely sold out. And a pharmacist at a Walgreen’s in California told us that they would not be getting anymore because the government has seized all supplies.
Fleming Pharmaceuticals, maker of ThyroShield a potassium iodide used in nuclear emergencies, said in a press release today that before the Japanese Quake the federal government already has stockpiled millions of doses. The company claims that some of the federal stockpile has expired and the remaining supply is set to expire over the year.
White House chief spokesman Jay Carney continued to tell the press that the U.S. is not in danger, but wouldn’t comment on the governments stockpiling program.
Potassium iodide, which is sometimes are sold as anti-radiation pills can protect your thyroid from radiation by blocking the absorption of radioiodine. Potassium iodide does not protect from all side effects of radiation poisoning and can have a number of side effects. It should only be taken in prescription doses if the radiation reaches the coast at dangerous levels.
A number of stores across the west coast are reporting that they are completely sold out. And a pharmacist at a Walgreen’s in California told us that they would not be getting anymore because the government has seized all supplies.
Fleming Pharmaceuticals, maker of ThyroShield a potassium iodide used in nuclear emergencies, said in a press release today that before the Japanese Quake the federal government already has stockpiled millions of doses. The company claims that some of the federal stockpile has expired and the remaining supply is set to expire over the year.
White House chief spokesman Jay Carney continued to tell the press that the U.S. is not in danger, but wouldn’t comment on the governments stockpiling program.
Potassium iodide, which is sometimes are sold as anti-radiation pills can protect your thyroid from radiation by blocking the absorption of radioiodine. Potassium iodide does not protect from all side effects of radiation poisoning and can have a number of side effects. It should only be taken in prescription doses if the radiation reaches the coast at dangerous levels.
4 Mushroom Herbal Tincture
3 Mushroom Tincture now includes Agaricus, so it's a 4 mushroom tincture. Supplies are limited.
Reishi & Radiation, DISCOUNT
As a public service Aloha Medicinals is immediately discounting all reishi products so we can all have some protection from any radiation risk that may occur from the Japanese nuclear disaster. Reishi does not take the place of Iodine tablets, but research has shown it may be effective in helping to reduce the effects of radiation exposure.
We are marking down our 90 count, 500 mg Red Reishi Capsules from $19.95 to $14.00 and our 90 count 300 mg Reishi Essential Capsules from $15.95 to $10.00 to make them affordable for everyone. Hopefully the USA will not experience the effects of Japan's nuclear disaster, but if things continue to get worse and the radiation reaches the West Coast we need to all be prepared. It is far better to prepare now than to wish we had later.
We are all in this together and we need to work together to get through it. Stocks are limited, so please order quickly. Suggested use is 3 capsules per day from now until this situation is resolved. Good Luck to us all.
We are marking down our 90 count, 500 mg Red Reishi Capsules from $19.95 to $14.00 and our 90 count 300 mg Reishi Essential Capsules from $15.95 to $10.00 to make them affordable for everyone. Hopefully the USA will not experience the effects of Japan's nuclear disaster, but if things continue to get worse and the radiation reaches the West Coast we need to all be prepared. It is far better to prepare now than to wish we had later.
We are all in this together and we need to work together to get through it. Stocks are limited, so please order quickly. Suggested use is 3 capsules per day from now until this situation is resolved. Good Luck to us all.
Oregano & Radiation
Oregano was the first plant to regrow after Hiroshima it is a potent antibacterial, antiviral & antifungal plant. It is considered a medicine chest in a bottle and is considered beneficial for:
Acne, Animal bites, Arthritis, Asthma, Athlete's foot, Bad breath, Bed sores and Ulcerations, Bladder Infections, Bromidrosis (foul odor associated with excessive sweating), Boils, Bruises, Burns, Bursitis, Candidacies, Canker sores, Cellulitis, Cold sores, Colds/Flu, Cough, Cryptosporidium, Dandruff and Seborrhea, Diaper rash, Diarrhea, Ear infections, Ebola and Dengue Fever, Eczema, Fingernail fungus, Frostbite and frost burn, Giardiasis, Gum Disease, Food poisoning, Head lice, Headaches, Hepatitis, Impetigo, Irritable Bowel syndrome, Leg cramps, Nail fungus, Paronychia, Peptic ulcer, Pneumonia, Psoriasis, Prostate disorders, Pruritis, Radiation injury/burns, Ringworm, Rosacea, Scabies, Shingles, Sinusitis, Sore throat, Sports injuries, Tick borne illnesses, Thrush, Toothache, Tuberculosis, Varicose veins, Venomous bites, Warts and Wounds
Safe for humans and animals.
Also the herb can be used as a seasoning, tea or blended into an herbal tincture. VERY easy to do. Other beneficial herbs:
Oregano Herb
Turmeric Herb
Acerola Berry (Vit C)
Cilantro
Chlorella
Radiation levels 16 March are showing well below any danger levels. Consistent with radiation from normal sources.
Stress is not good for the immune system. Panic isn't required, only clear thinking. There are many, many natural remedies that help detox heavy metals and help support immune systems. We are not without many options.
Acne, Animal bites, Arthritis, Asthma, Athlete's foot, Bad breath, Bed sores and Ulcerations, Bladder Infections, Bromidrosis (foul odor associated with excessive sweating), Boils, Bruises, Burns, Bursitis, Candidacies, Canker sores, Cellulitis, Cold sores, Colds/Flu, Cough, Cryptosporidium, Dandruff and Seborrhea, Diaper rash, Diarrhea, Ear infections, Ebola and Dengue Fever, Eczema, Fingernail fungus, Frostbite and frost burn, Giardiasis, Gum Disease, Food poisoning, Head lice, Headaches, Hepatitis, Impetigo, Irritable Bowel syndrome, Leg cramps, Nail fungus, Paronychia, Peptic ulcer, Pneumonia, Psoriasis, Prostate disorders, Pruritis, Radiation injury/burns, Ringworm, Rosacea, Scabies, Shingles, Sinusitis, Sore throat, Sports injuries, Tick borne illnesses, Thrush, Toothache, Tuberculosis, Varicose veins, Venomous bites, Warts and Wounds
Safe for humans and animals.
Also the herb can be used as a seasoning, tea or blended into an herbal tincture. VERY easy to do. Other beneficial herbs:
Oregano Herb
Turmeric Herb
Acerola Berry (Vit C)
Cilantro
Chlorella
Radiation levels 16 March are showing well below any danger levels. Consistent with radiation from normal sources.
Stress is not good for the immune system. Panic isn't required, only clear thinking. There are many, many natural remedies that help detox heavy metals and help support immune systems. We are not without many options.
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