June 3 Safe Tech International News and Notes
Havana, Katie Singer
FEATURED: KATIE SINGER: Consider yourself blessed You are an elder, asking questions. You know that in a digitalized society, living in harmony with the Earth is not possible. You figure, as civilization collapses, that every community has opportunity to survive by local water, food, fuel and ores. You wonder how to act on that. Before dinner, two neighborhood kids stop by to visit your compost pile’s worms. They taste your sauteed greens, ask for seconds and to harvest some of your chard. Consider yourself blessed. Consider yourself blessed - Katie Singer's Substack
FEATURED: EMFSA SOUTH AFRICA May 2024 Newsletter includes Colorectal Cancer; Hypotheses •Disrupted circadian rhythmicity is a prominent feature of modern society, and has been designated as a probable carcinogen •Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the cancers closely associated with circadian disruption; Environmental exposures from early childhood; Deutenomics; Airborne ultrasound; Havana Syndrome, We Don’t Need to Choose between Brain Injury and ‘Mass Hysteria’ to Explain Havana Syndrome; A more human friendly computer HERE
AI: BLOOD IN THE MACHINE: Understanding the real threat generative AI poses to our jobs There will be no robot jobs apocalypse, but there's still plenty to worry about. How *will* generative AI impact our jobs? HERE
AI: AI Is Another Threat to the Climate The dirty digital industry isn't going to save us. We have to save ourselves. No, AI won’t outsmart our climate calamity. Quite the opposite. Artificial intelligence devours vast energy while clouding the human wisdom that might save us. AI is but the latest manifestation of what the famed social critic Jacques Ellul called “the technological bluff.” AI Is Another Threat to the Climate - Truthdig
BIG TECH FINANCE: Inside Tech’s $2 Trillion Technical Debt Technical debt, the accumulation of shortcuts and compromises in software systems, is an issue across industries with consequences ranging from system failures and security breaches to hindered innovation. The Wall Street Journal reports it was the cause of 13,000 canceled Southwest Airlines flights during the 2022 holiday season and numerous high-profile cyberattacks on Google, Apple, and Microsoft. The cost of addressing this debt stands at $1.52 trillion, while cybersecurity incidents, operational failures, and maintenance of outdated systems amounts to $2.41 trillion annually in the US. Inside Tech’s $2 Trillion Technical Debt | American Enterprise Institute - AEI
CELLPHONES: Cell Phone Use Can Be Deadly By Gary G. Kohls, MD June 3, 2024 Recent studies confirm that cell and cordless phone can: * Damage nerves in the scalp * Cause blood cells to leak hemoglobin * Cause memory loss and mental confusion * Cause headaches and induce extreme fatigue * Create joint pain, muscle spasms and tremors * Alter the brain’s electrical activity during sleep * Induce ringing in the ears, impair sense of smell * Precipitate cataracts, retina damage and eye cancer * Open the blood-brain barrier to viruses and toxins * Reduce the number and efficiency of white blood cells * Stimulate asthma by producing histamine in mast cells * Cause digestive problems and raise bad cholesterol levels * Stress the endocrine system, especially pancreas, thyroid, ovaries, testes * Causes female sterility and birth defects Cell Phone Use Can Be Deadly - LewRockwell Courtesy Warren
CHILDREN YOUTH SCREENAGERS: This fall, we are very excited to launch a K-5 version of our first movie Screenagers: Growing Up In The Digital Age, specifically for use in Elementary Schools and with elementary age students and their families. Screenagers K-5 Edition - Register Your Interest (screenagersmovie.com)
CHILDREN: SCROLLING TO DEATH Kids Before Technology (with Julie Scelfo) Julie Scelfo, the Founder and Executive Director of Mothers Against Media Addiction (MAMA). MAMA is a grassroots movement of parents fighting back against media addiction and creating a world in which real-life experiences and interactions remain at the heart of a healthy childhood. About Julie Scelfo: Julie is an award-winning journalist, a former New York Times staff writer, a media ecologist, and a parent. Scelfo was moved to start MAMA after reporting on the youth mental health crisis and seeing suicidality affect children at ever-younger ages, and recognizing how a multitude of factors—including screen addiction and absent regulations—has created an unhealthy, unsafe media environment. Scelfo’s stories on mental health have been leading the national conversation for decades, from her coverage of suicidality and social media on college campuses, to increasing suicidality among tweens. In addition to her MAMA advocacy, Scelfo is the author of The Women Who Made New York, (Seal Press/Hachette), an inclusive collection of biographies revealing how it was women—and not just men—who built one of the world’s greatest cities. She is a frequent public speaker who has made numerous appearances on television, radio and podcasts, and invites you to join her coalition at JoinMAMA.org. Kids Before Technology (with Julie Scelfo) (scrolling2death.com)
EHT: HEALTHY AT HOME; SLEEP SANCTUARY: How do I create a sleep sanctuary? - Healthy Tech at Home Project (healthytechhome.org)
EMF THE POWER COUPLE: How not to hardwire our home What is EOP / ethernet-over-power? HERE
5G: Some activist docs related to 5G small cells, optic fibre & MIMO EXTREME DANGERS OF RF 4G,5G and 6G - May 2024 (pdf)
https://tinyurl.com/3sm5cn3v (130 pages of articles, links, info. etc.)
Notice of Liability Main Form May 2024 (docx)
https://tinyurl.com/365tauuv (6 pages)
Freedom of Information Request -Rollout 5G May 2024 (docx)
https://tinyurl.com/2wfzvpw4 (3 pages) - Simona (please vet for yourself)
5G; SW Miami-Dade residents protest 5G cellphone towers, citing potential health risks SW Miami-Dade residents protest 5G cellphone towers, citing potential health risks - WSVN 7News | Miami News, Weather, Sports | Fort Lauderdale
HAVANA SYNDROME: We Don’t Need to Choose between Brain Injury and ‘Mass Hysteria’ to Explain Havana Syndrome Puzzling Havana Syndrome injuries that have afflicted U.S. diplomats may have a more complicated explanation than solely pulsed microwaves or mass psychology BY JON STONE & KENNETH R. FOSTER They didn’t have brain injury. So concluded the recent National Institutes of Health clinical and brain imaging studies of about 80 individuals reporting “anomalous health incidents” (AHIs)—a variety of unexplained symptoms experienced by U.S. officials in the diplomatic and intelligence services that have created alarm and puzzlement since they were first reported in Havana in late 2016. The subjects reported diverse and nonspecific symptoms such as imbalance, migraine, “brain fog” and fatigue. Less discussed is that nearly a third fulfilled diagnostic criteria for a condition called persistent postural perceptual dizziness (PPPD). PPPD is a disorder related to abnormal brain function that can be triggered by any cause of dizziness or vertigo, and, like other subtypes of functional neurological disorder, can’t be seen with conventional tests. This condition gives us some unexamined clues about “Havana syndrome.” There is, however, a plausible relation between pulsed microwave exposure and PPPD that doesn’t involve brain damage: The microwave auditory effect (also called the Frey effect) occurs when pulsed radiofrequency energy directed to the head causes a tiny temperature rise in the skull and brain, which in turn creates a pressure wave that propagates through the head, leading to an unusual audiovestibular sensation that is perceived as sound. One of us who studied this as long ago as the 1970s is on record as saying that the effect is too weak under foreseeable exposure conditions to cause brain damage. However, calculations show that it should be possible to beam strong enough pulses of microwaves, millimeter waves or laser energy to disturb the vestibular system at levels anticipated to produce symptoms similar to those initially reported from AHIs. While these vestibular and auditory experiences would be expected to be short-lived, they would be enough, as an unexpected or unpleasant experience of dizziness, to trigger PPPD of much longer duration. This would also explain why many individuals experienced worsening symptoms over time, as commonly seen in PPPD, rather than improvement as would be expected after a brain injury
A 2020 National Academies of the Sciences, Engineering and Medicine report described what must have been intensely unpleasant experiences for various individuals. Many had an unusual directional component to the experience with “sudden onset of a perceived loud sound, sometimes described as screeching, chirping, clicking, or piercing, a sensation of intense pressure or vibration in the head, and pain in the ear or more diffusely in the head”.
High-powered microwave or millimeter wave transmitters presently exist that, in principle, should be able to produce such effects but would be readily discoverable. Millimeter waves would be less easily detected than microwaves, which have been the focus of most conversation so far, because of their lesser ability to cause electromagnetic interference with other devices and smaller equipment size. To establish that microwaves or other forms of energy were involved in the AHIs requires forensic evidence such as detection of transmissions, a device or intercepted communications, none of which are currently available to the public. However this is clearly a sensitive topic for the government, which has redacted large sections about microwaves from its several reports on AHIs released to the public. A two-part story in the news program 60 Minutes alleged that some AHIs were result of attacks by a special unit of Russian military intelligence. Whatever the cause or causes of AHIs may be, there is reason to be concerned about directed energy weapons being used in nonmilitary settings. [] We need to move away from simplistic arguments of “brain damage” versus “mass hysteria” that have characterized much of the reporting. Pathophysiological events, including pulsed energy attacks, could trigger genuine illnesses involving a disturbance of brain function, like PPPD, even where there is no brain damage. Havana Syndrome: We Don’t Need to Choose between Brain Injury and ‘Mass Hysteria’ | Scientific American
HEALTH: NPR ‘Body Electric’: How Our Headphone Habits Affect Our Hearing According to the World Health Organization, more than 1 billion teens and young adults aged 12 to 35 are at risk of permanent, avoidable hearing loss due to, quote-unquote, “unsafe listening practices.” Why is this happening? Well, one reason – headphones and earbuds. NPR host Manoush Zomorodi has been talking about how our headphone habits are affecting our hearing on the latest episode of Body Electric, and she’s here with us now to tell us more about it. here
HEALTH SOCIAL MEDIA: 'How I rewired my brain in six weeks' - BBC News 'How I rewired my brain in six weeks' - BBC News (youtube.com) 12 minutes
HEALTH: Head and neck tumors associated with cell phone use have increased in the U.S. since 2000 Electromagnetic Radiation Safety June 3, 2024 See; Brain Tumor Rates Are Rising in the US: The Role of Cell Phone & Cordless Phone Use Electromagnetic Radiation Safety: Brain Tumor Rates Are Rising in the US: The Role of Cell Phone & Cordless Phone Use (saferemr.com)
HEALTH OT: New Thermography Applications for Disease Detection Inflammation, the cause of many diseases, can be accurately detected by thermography. New Thermography Applications for Disease Detection | The Epoch Times
INSPIRATION: Embracing Sapienatura: Transitioning from the Intellectual Folly of Civilization to the Wisdom of Nature-Based Solutions Civilization: Traditional civilizations have often placed great faith in technological solutions to address societal challenges, from industrialization to biotechnology. However, the relentless pursuit of technological progress without regard for its ecological impacts has perpetuated the intellectual folly of civilization, leading to unintended consequences and systemic risks. Sapienatura: Sapienatura recognizes that technology alone cannot solve the complex challenges facing humanity and the planet. Instead, it advocates for a holistic approach that integrates nature-based solutions with appropriate technologies. This approach emphasizes biomimicry, green infrastructure, and low-impact design, drawing inspiration from nature's time-tested solutions to create regenerative and sustainable systems. HERE courtesy Tanya
LANDLINES CA: Saving landlines YES, INDIVIDUALS MAY (AND SHOULD!) ENCOURAGE FULL CPUC COMMISSION APPROVAL OF JUDGE'S PROPOSED DECISION TO DENY AT&T APPLICATION On May 10, CPUC Administrative Law Judge Thomas Glegola filed a proposed decision to "dismiss with prejudice the application of AT&T California to withdraw as Carrier of Last Resort." This decision has no legal effect until and unless the Commission hears and approves it at its regular business/voting meeting on June 20 (at the earliest) The Public Advisor's office recommends that people who want to see AT&T's application denied (i.e. this decision approved) do the following, even if you have already written/testified: **Submit comments online at apps.cpuc.ca.gov/c/a2303003. (your new date and new/revived comment will indicate that your opposition is current. You will see that others continue to make submissions.) **Voice a comment at the June 20 CPUC voting meeting! This meeting is in San Luis Obispo, but please call in, as this could be the last chance!! https://www.cpuc.ca.gov/about-cpuc/transparency-and-reporting/cpuc-voting-meetings/2024-voting-meetings NOTE: It is important to emphasize the superiority/reliability/necessity of copper, as the judge's proposed decision does not mandate retention of copper. "The Commission does not have rules preventing AT&T from retiring copper facilities." Glegola p. 22 Judge Glegola's full decision: http://docs.cpuc.ca.gov/PublishedDocs/Efile/G000/M531/K085/531085885.PDF May 13 USA Today: Landlines may be saved in California—for now
NATURE: Indian Environment Ministry Bans Mobile Towers in Tiger Habitats https://ehtrust.org/indian-environment-ministry-bans-cell-towers-in-tiger-habitats/
NUCLEAR ENERGY: SIERRA CLUB OFFERS FREE VIEWING OF IMPORTANT NEW FILM: SOS--SAN ONOFRE SYNDROME STARTING TOMORROW THROUGH JUNE 10 The Sierra Club’s Nuclear Free Film Series will feature “SOS: the San Onofre Syndrome: Nuclear Power’s Legacy”—a documentary about waste generated by nuclear power. From June 3-10, the film will screen for free on Eventive. Appreciate Electronic Silent Spring author Katie Singer's fine review of the film. The award-winning filmmakers are Bolinas, CA residents with a long history of opposing and educating about wireless radiation harms as well as nuclear dangers. As they have said about the scope of their activism,"Radiation is radiation." Courtesy Sidnee
SMART METERS: Referendum in Switzerland on 9 June: Should "smart" electricity meters be forcibly installed? Referendum in Switzerland on 9 June: Should "smart" electricity meters be forcibly installed? | I have something on my mind... (einarflydal.com)
SPACE: The rush to return humans to the Moon and build lunar bases could threaten opportunities for astronomy A lunar base on the Moon would include solar panels for power generation, and equipment for keeping astronauts alive on the surface. ESA - P. Carril The rush to return humans to the Moon and build lunar bases could threaten opportunities for astronomy (theconversation.com)
SPACE: Researchers call for strengthening sustainability regulations in laws governing space exploration In a new study, a team of researchers led by Dimitra Atri of the NYU Abu Dhabi (NYUAD) Center for Astrophysics and Space Science call for strengthening existing planetary protection policies beyond the space surrounding Earth to include requirements for preserving the Lunar and Martian environments. In addition to biological contamination, they argue that guidelines should be expanded to address more than orbital debris, crowding, and security issues. Specifically, they cite several questions that existing laws leave unaddressed—including issues of atmospheric and abiotic contamination—which constitute important gaps in planetary policy that must be confronted, collaboratively. Additionally, the researchers present arguments for the necessity of sustainability on planetary objects such as the moon and Mars and offer examples of terrestrial benefits that could be derived from sustainable exploration practices in space. Specifically, they cite the potential development of new technologies that—while designed for sustainable uses beyond Earth—could advance terrestrial technology. Researchers call for strengthening sustainability regulations in laws governing space exploration (phys.org)
SPACE: Rosenworcel Proposes Updated Orbital Debris Rules Updated rules would require satellites to meet specific metrics that limit risk of in-space collisions. Rosenworcel Proposes Updated Orbital Debris Rules (broadbandbreakfast.com)
SURVEILLANCE: CHD Warns Regulators: ‘U.S. Must Lead the Way in Ensuring That Digital IDs Remain Voluntary’ Children’s Health Defense today sent a letter to U.S. regulatory authorities urging them to ensure that digital ID systems — if adopted at all — remain voluntary and optional for citizens. CHD Warns Regulators: ‘U.S. Must Lead the Way in Ensuring That Digital IDs Remain Voluntary’ • Children's Health Defense (childrenshealthdefense.org)
WARFARE: The Navy Could Become A Laser Powerhouse Despite over a decade of research and investment in high-energy lasers (HELs) and high-power microwaves (HPMs), the U.S. Navy has yet to deploy these technologies effectively. The Navy Could Become A Laser Powerhouse | The National Interest Courtesy Kate
UTILITIES: San Diego Gas & Electric Power to the People Frustration with high rates and poor service is sparking campaigns to take over investor-owned utilities and make them nonprofit public entities. San Diego ponders a bid to take over its for-profit energy utility | Grist
EVENTS: On Wednesday, September 25 at 11am PT/2pm ET Collaborative for Health and the Environment hosts Dr. Joel Moskowitz for a discussion about Health Hazards of Wireless Technologies: What do we know now? Wireless technologies, including cell phones and wireless internet, have become ubiquitous in our lives. Yet the preponderance of scientific evidence shows adverse health effects from the radiofrequency radiation used and generated by these devices. Dr. Moskowitz will provide a brief overview of recent studies on health hazards of wireless technologies, including the state of the evidence on links to children's brain cancers, thyroid cancers, and other health hazards. This discussion will provide an introduction to a subset of recent scientific evidence, with a focus on cancer and children's health. RSVP here.
ACTION: Take Action: Protect Children from Wi-Fi Exposure on School Buses here
ACTION: Support New Carlsbad CA Petition: Signers from Anywhere, 10 Second Sign Oppose the cell tower on San Elijo Road in Carlsbad/San Marcos, CA Petition · Oppose the cell tower on San Elijo Road in Carlsbad/San Marcos, CA - Carlsbad, United States · Change.org