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Twitter's daily storm in a teacup feeds our news porn addiction.
People are quick to label Twitter as "good" or "bad" but it's neither -- it's simply a tool which brings out the best and the worst in us. It's the latest in a long line of communication methods which have change the way we interact with the world, for better and for worse.
Twitter is certainly a powerful tool for quickly disseminating information around the globe. But when it comes to the concept of "news", I'd say Twitter has done more harm than good. It's driven the concept of a 24-hour news cycle to new extremes, turning the news into sensationalist entertainment which could best be classified as "news porn" -- whether it's Apple versus Android or Abbott versus Gillard.
Amanda Dunn's opinion piece on the weekend -- Right on skew: news takes a tumble in the Twitter hole -- summed up how I've been feeling for a while and I'm sure I'm not alone. Every wild rumour, ill-considered opinion or off-the-cuff comment on Twitter triggers a new wave of outrage which spills into the mainstream media and creates a self-sustaining storm in a teacup. I've had my fair share of Twitter controversy and faced the consequences. I'm not trying to shirk responsibility for my actions by blaming Twitter. I just think that the Twitterati's appetite for outrage, and the mainstream media's habit of lapping it up, has reached the point where it's distorting public debate.
At the risk of biting the hand that feeds, I'd say trivial Twitter controversies are driving the mainstream headlines of the day -- controversies declared newsworthy by journalists scrambling to feed the hungry beast with a diet of newstainment. Such tactics might boost page impressions but they do little to raise the level of debate or redeem the mainstream media in the eyes of those who feel it has lost its way.
It's easy to blame the mainstream media for the rise of newstainment but, judging by the comments on news stories and the tone of Twitter debate, I'd say many readers are willingly along for the ride. The rise of adversarial politics has infected every level of public debate, with people more interested in attacking their opponents than addressing the issues.
We bicker like children on Twitter just as our politicians bicker like children in parliament and it's hard to say which is following the example of the other. Trolling and news porn seem to go hand in hand, with Twitter providing the perfect outlet.
Of course for every spiteful troll you'll find a self-righteous Informed Citizen 2.0 who speaks of the democratisation of information but is just as much a news porn addict -- driving the Twitter outrage machine while claiming the moral high ground. By feeding Twitter's outrage overload, under the guise of democratic participation, they're actually part of the problem. Actually they're a bigger part of the problem than the trolls, because self-righteous outrage junkies can't even see that they're part of the problem.
I'm not saying that people shouldn't discuss politics on Twitter or their favourite brand of smartphone, I'm just saying that we need more informed debate and less people playing Outrage of the Day. Outrage junkies actually damage democracy because the really important issues are lost in the noise when you turn every little issue into a big deal.
Australia's nine-month election campaign will provide Twitter with the perfect fodder to feed news porn addicts. As the outrage machine goes into overdrive, it could be the last straw for many people who were already contemplating turning their back on Twitter or at least filtering out newstainment and the outrage junkies.
Will Twitter ever jump the shark? Not until people lose their taste for newstainment and childish bickering. History would suggest that outrage junkies will only tire of Twitter when they find an even more effective way to feed their news porn addiction.


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I soaked these lala in salt water for about 2 hours, then I washed and cleaned them and transfered them in fridge, until I'm ready to cook it.I picked and washed them 1 by 1 in the sink,and stand until my legs pain ...lols . But it's worth it, because they are so tasty.
1.5 kg lalas/clams
5 slices of ginger
2 cloves garlic (smashed)
2 stalks spring onions, cut into 2 inch length
1 red chilli, sliced
A handful of basil leaves
1 1/2 tbsp oyster sauce
1 tsp sugar
Few dashes of white pepper
Few dashes of sesame oil
2 tbsp oil
Clean lalas, I picked 1 by 1,to make sure all the lalas/clams are clean and with flesh.
Heat up oil, saute sliced ginger, smashed garlic until aromatic.
Add in sliced chilli and spring onions,stir fry until soft and fragrant.
Add in oyster sauce and white pepper , then add in lala/clams, stir fry awhile and cover the wok.
Cook until the lalas open up and turned to reddish in color.At this time, they'd release a lot of moisture, so no need to add water.
Throw in basil leaves and cover for about 1 minute.
Dash some sesame oil and dish up.
To all my Hindus friend and readers, wish you Happy Deepavali!!!

subset: commoncrawl


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by Bishop Harry R. Jackson Jr.
On June 10, 2011, the International Communion of Evangelical Churches (ICEC)—a new communion of churches—was formed. This confederation has been organized by a multi-racial and multi-cultural group of churches to address the problems that blight the urban landscape, both in the U.S. and around the world.
Our vision is to raise up churches with a mission to transform the cultures in which they operate. Our historic model is the work of John Wesley and others who created a movement that eventually came to be known as the Great Awakening. While remaining true to the biblical mandate to win souls and to care for the poor, our confederation of like-minded, independent churches will collaborate and deploy resources to transform their cities, states and nations.
In addition to prioritizing relevant, evangelical preaching designed stir a back-to-the-Bible movement in the U.S., the communion will also speak out on cultural trends and public policy issues of the day. In the spirit of John Wesley and the first Great Awakening, it is imperative that the church transcends race and politics to address the pivotal issues we face as a society.
Too often the church in America has been guilty of taking a very myopic view when addressing the issues of righteousness and justice. On one hand, the "Christian Right" has focused on personal, moral or righteousness issues, while dismissing issues regarding biblical justice. On the other hand, a great number of African-American and minority-led churches have been mostly vocal on issues pertaining to biblical justice, poverty and civil rights, while being absent on those relating to righteousness.
The church in America is too divided and is in desperate need of racial reconciliation. Therefore, a strong visual demonstration of unity is required to speak to the world—"The church of Jesus Christ has been called forth under God from every nation tribe and tongue to be one with Him." Jesus clearly stated this visual demonstration of oneness in the church would indelibly mark the psyche of an irreligious world and prove to humanity that God indeed sent Jesus into the earth.
The ICEC will merge with several networks of Christian organizations and ministries from around to world to become, in a pragmatic sense, a network of networks. This new wineskin will provide a clear vision, practical strategic plan and straightforward message for dealing with the issues of righteousness and justice around the world.
We believe we can win and disciple more than 5 million souls around the globe during the next 10 years. We also believe that we can plant 1,000 church-planting congregations during the next decade. This shall be accomplished through four methods; church planting, friendship evangelism, international crusades and media outreaches.
The plight of urban America is of utmost importance to this communion. This reformation will implement strategies from urban ministries and churches bearing proven track records, but we will also create new structures and agencies to deal with specific issues that plague our cities.
1. Our moral standard for Christian and governmental leaders will follow principles of biblical holiness. We will hold each other accountable as well as those working with us to maintain these standards.
2. Our economic standard will engage the entrepreneurial spirit of young people which exists in the bedrock of our nation. We will train and mentor inner city youth and adults to build skills and create new business enterprises. We will do this in order to provide entrepreneurs rather than laborers and employers rather than employees. We will teach investment principles and increase the wealth in our cities.
3. Our standard for young men is high. We want to establish a mentoring program where men who are distinguished in the community can transfer their skills to the next generation. This will directly affect the recidivism of urban males in prison. This will also leave a legacy that can establish the future of urban citizens over the long term.
4. Our standard for education addresses the problems distinct to our cities. We recognize the old panaceas don't work. We will open educational opportunities, creating the best environment for training the minds of urban America. We will provide innovation teaching tools, so young people can accomplish what they are gifted to do. We will promote any positive means to accomplish this, including vouchers, charter schools, private funding, scholarships and grants.
5. Our standard for families is based on our belief that the nuclear family is the basic foundation for all society. This family consists of one man and woman united in marriage, raising children together as a loving unit. We will teach fathers how to be loving and supportive husbands as well as engaged fathers. We will educate women and mentor them so they can learn to be supportive and loving wives and nurturing mothers. We will increase our efforts toward creating the community and people God has ordained us to be from the beginning of time.
The Lord has brought together a group of seven men who will create a community of people reflecting the values of the early church while being firmly anchored in the 21st century.
It is possible to change the fabric of America by walking the walk, not just talking the talk. Learn more about the International Communion of Evangelical Churches.
Bishop Harry R. Jackson Jr. is the senior pastor of Hope Christian Church, a 3,000-member congregation in the Washington, D.C., area. He also serves as a regional bishop for the Fellowship of International Churches. Additionally, Bishop Jackson is the founder and president of High Impact Leadership Coalition, which seeks to protect the moral compass of the nation by educating and empowering churches, as well as community and political leaders. Bishop Jackson has authored numerous books, including In-laws, Outlaws and the Functional Family; The Warrior's Heart; The Way of the Warrior; High Impact African-American Churches, Personal Faith, Public Policy; and The Truth In Black & White.
Bishop Jackson is the guest editor of the January-February 2012 issue of Ministry Today. This article was previously published by townhall.com.
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Get our BEST DEAL on Ministry Today magazine. Get a full year for only $12! Yes-I want this deal.


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- 3-Eyelet Gibsom shoes
- Soft, supple Nappa leather uppers
- Goodyear welted
- Original DMC air-cushioned sole
- Oil- and fat-resistant
- Offers good abraision and slip resistance
The 1461 original casual shoes by Dr. Martens have the unique look and long lasting comfort that you know from this brand. These shoes are made with soft and supple Nappa leather uppers. They are comfortable and will quickly mold to your feet for a very individualized fit. The original DMC air-cushioned sole has been providing underfoot comfort and durability since 1960. It is oil- and fat-resistant, tough, and offers good abrasion ans slip resistance. The upper and the sole are sewn together, not just glued, like many footwear constructions. This, together with their Z welt-stitch and heat-sealing process, make them unique to Dr. Martens. These boots will last a long time and require only a small amount of care.
Style(s): 11838001, 11838002, R11838003


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Flames NewsFlames Home > Wrestling Home > News
Liberty Wrestling Takes Seventh-Straight Dual
Liberty wrestling used four bonus-point wins on its way to a 28-13 victory over VMI, Sunday afternoon, in the Vines Center, securing its seventh-consecutive dual win, where the program's five seniors were honored. The Flames won six of the ten weight-class bouts in the contest, including five of the last six match-ups.
Liberty's dual record improves to 13-6 on the year, while also claiming its ninth-consecutive victory over the Keydets. The Flames are now 3-0 at home this season, with this being their first contested match in the Vines Center. With the defeat, visitors VMI drop to 4-8 on the season.
Liberty's seventh-straight dual meet victory is the longest single-season streak since the 1980-81 season, when Bob Bonheim's squad went a perfect 11-0. However, this isn't the first time head coach Jesse Castro has had a streak of seven straight. Castro led his team to six successive victories to end the 2009 campaign before rolling off four straight to begin 2010, resulting in a 10-dual streak over multiple seasons.
Robert Jillard and John Pope found themselves knotted at four through one period at 125 pounds to open the dual. While Jillard struck first, Pope tallied a reversal along with a takedown later in the period for his tallies. After tacking on an escape in the second, Pope gained the 5-4 edge, which he would hold on to in the final time frame to give the Keydets a 3-0 advantage.
T. J. Mitchell responded for the Flames with a dominating performance at 133 pounds against Charles Gray. Mitchell gained a 7-0 advantage through the opening two periods, scoring a takedown, a three-point near fall and a reversal. The Hazlet, N.J., native then scored three additional takedowns in the closing period, along with three more back points. His 5:47 of accumulated riding time added another point to his total at the conclusion of the bout, giving him a 17-2 technical fall for his fifth-straight and sixteenth overall victory.
With the Flames taking the 5-3 lead, Joey Montgomery and Ryan Goodsell took the mat at 141 pounds. After drawing 3-3 through two periods, the Keydets' Goodsell controlled the final two minutes of action, earning an escape and a takedown. He also gained a penalty point and the riding time bonus for the 8-3 win, giving VMI a one-point advantage, 6-5.
The Keydets' Mike Long countered with an 8-1 victory at 149 pounds over Flames senior, Peter Crawford. Long scored seven points in the second frame of action behind an escape, a takedown and two two-point near falls. With 3:17 of riding time, Long received the bonus for the 8-1 decision, extending the Keydets' dual lead to four, 9-5.
Liberty's Julian Colon then picked up the second technical fall victory of the day for the Flames, winning 16-1 over VMI's Mike Burnett. To open the 157-pound bout, Colon scored a takedown and three back points. The East Petersburg, Pa., native then built his lead to 11-0 through two periods, scoring an escape, a takedown and a three-point near fall. Liberty's co-captain tacked on a takedown, multiple penalty points for stalling against Burnett, and the riding bonus in the final period for the 16-1 victory. The win gave the Flames the dual lead once again, 10-9.
After being honored as a senior to open the dual, Chad Porter made quick work of his opponent at 165 pounds, earning the win by fall just one minute into the bout. His victory over Ted Gottwald was the 102nd of his career, surpassing his head coach, Jesse Castro, for seventh on Liberty's all-time wins list. The six points made the Flames' lead 16-9.
The Keydets' team leader in wins, Matt Brock, then answered at 174 pounds, picking up a 15-2 major decision over Eli Sanchez. Despite scoring first with a takedown, Sanchez found himself down 9-2 through two periods. Matt Brock scored three back points in the final stanza, to go along with multiple penalty points from Sanchez stalling, and the riding time bonus. The Keydets' deficit was trimmed to three, 16-13, with the win but would be the last points tallied by the visitors.
Aaron Kelley wasn't to be outdone by his teammate Porter, as he'd earn his own win by fall in the 184-pound bout. Kelley ended his match in just 57 seconds, pinning Evan Dill to extend the Flames' lead to 22-13. The redshirt senior's win is his seventh-consecutive victory, and fourth win by fall in that stretch.
In a tight match at 197 pounds, the Flames' Aaron Thompson used a first-period takedown to earn a 2-1 decision over John Dommert. The only other points in the bout came in the final two-minutes of action, with Dommert escaping to open the period. Thompson defended the remainder of the time to hold on and give Liberty a 25-13 lead, sealing the team's seventh-consecutive dual victory with one bout remaining.
In the closing heavyweight bout, Josh Pelletier used his accumulated riding time to pick up the victory after he and Juan Adams were knotted at two-each through regulation. The Flames' third redshirt senior scored a takedown in the first, while Adams escaped in the first and second period for his two points in the bout. Pelletier's victory made the final dual result 28-13 in favor of Liberty.
Aside from the four aforementioned seniors, Justin Krop was also honored on Senior Day. Krop has been with the program for four years and has added depth to the middle weights, competing at four different weight classes during his career. This season the Monrovia, Md., native has competed at 157 pounds.
Liberty's three redshirt seniors, Porter, Kelley and Pelletier all picked up wins on their Senior Day. Each of the grapplers came to Liberty for the 2006-07 season, when the wrestling program was reinstated. During their time on Liberty Mountain, the trio has accumulated a 215-133 mark, winning at a 61.8 percent clip. Porter and Kelley came from Parkersburg South High School in West Virginia, while Pelletier is from Charleston, Maine and grappled for Foxcroft Academy.
The Flames next dual is on Thursday when they travel to Salem, Va. to face Atlantic Coast Conference foe, Virginia Tech. The Hokies are currently ranked No. 6 in the NWCA/USA Today Coaches Poll. Contested at Andrew Lewis Middle School, the contest is slated for an 8 p.m. start.


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A FULL scale operation was launched by the emergency services last night after radioactive material was found at a property in Tadley.
Two fire crews from the Basingstoke fire station, a crew from Redbridge, in Southampton, and a crew from Tadley and Alton were dispatched to the scene in Giles Road, in Tadley at 8.36pm last night following the discovery of radioactive material in a garden shed.
In addition, three specialist Hampshire Fire and Rescue units were sent to the scene, including an environmental protection unit from Alton and a detection, identification and monitoring unit from Winchester.
A hazardous area response team and two ambulances from the South Central Ambulance Service were also sent to the scene to assess three people as a precautionary measure. No one was taken to hospital.
The occupiers of the property called the emergency services just after 8.30pm after they discovered a canister displaying a radioactive material sign in a garden shed.
As a precautionary measure, a 45 metre cordon was set up and 16 properties were evacuated whilst crews from the specialist units investigated the suspected radioactive material.
The canister was then collected by a team from the Atomic Weapons Establishment.
Brian Rudman, group manager said: "There was some material found but we were able to detect it. The levels of radiation were low and there was limited danger to anyone. It was a small canister which contained a radioactive substance."


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The LLMA has been established as a not-for-profit venture in order to promote a liquid traded market in longevity and mortality-related risk.
The LLMA's members are:
AVIVA, AXA, Deutsche Bank, J.P. Morgan, Morgan Stanley, Prudential PLC and Swiss Re.
Longevity expectations continue to increase across the developed world. As they do, defined benefit pension funds, a primary holder of this risk, are having to recognise it in their actuarial valuations. This increases their liabilities and puts their finances under further pressure.
LLMA today published 2014 index data for Germany
LLMA today published 2014 index data for the United States
LLMA today published 2014 index data for the Netherlands
The Index is a toolkit for measuring and managing longevity and mortality risk designed for pension plans, sponsors, insurers, reinsurers and investors.
We provide a toolkit for calculating the index that includes: