Welcome to the stars, intrepid traveller.

'Half the Sky' (by Nicholas Kristof and Sheryl Wudunn) is THE best book I have read. For the first time in a long time. It shook me up and gave me hope that there are ways that we can help women around the world. We can't change everything about the world, but we can all achieve huge things working together with one another. Half the Sky shows how empowering women is the solution to fighting poverty, war, and extremism.

You can buy it here and at Australian bookstores: http://www.halftheskymovement.org/


Here are websites of organisations who support women in struggling nations. Learn how you can join them in helping women around the world: http://www.halftheskymovement.org/get-involved

Education is the key to ending poverty and human rights violations around the world.

 

At least 500 people have been confirmed dead, and the death toll is expected to rise. More than 700 people are missing, and countless numbers are homeless, and injured. This is a horrifying disaster, and it is so heartbreaking to see this happening. Our hearts go out to all the people in Japan. They need all the help they can get. You can help out in various ways and use these resources to find loved ones here:
 
The link below has fantastic resources for people affected by the Japanese earthquake, fires and tsunami. It contains links to a person finder (in different languages) for anyone searching for their loved ones. You can use it to search and use maps, disaster message boards, warnings and advisories. Please feel more than free to use the transportation status of different places, blackout information, and real time updates in the link below.

http://www.google.com/crisisresponse/japanquake2011.html

The CNE link below has resources on the Japanese earthquake, including several donation pages. There are links to homeless shelters. Family and friends can try finding their loved ones through messageboards and mobile phones here: http://news.cnet.com/8301-13506_3-20042081-17.html

The Japanese government has some amazing links with updates and guides here: http://www.kantei.go.jp/jp/kikikanri/jisin/20110311miyagi/index.html
 

Head to the lj community help_japan here, to get in on the action and help out. Bidding on the auctions will start soon, and you can get updates here:

http://community.livejournal.com/help_japan/profile 

 

We can't afford to lose time. The people of Japan need our aid urgently, and they need it now. Thank you so much to all of the wonderful people who choose to help. 
 

TV and radio transmission interruptions are occurring. Reliable broadcasts are available on short wave radio: day 9710kHz, and night 6080kHz or listen live below http://www.abc.net.au/emergency/cyclone/yasi/

The SES advises that you should not drive through flood waters, or allow children to play in or near flood water. If you're worried about friends or family in the cyclone area, ring the National Registration and Inquiry System (NRIS) number, 1300 993 191 rather than contacting local police stations. International enquiries for the NRIS can be made at + 61 7 3055 6220.

Go to the Queensland Police Service's Facebook page for advice on preparing for a cyclone and what you must do during and before evacuation.

It also has evacuation maps, website links (on ABC News, road conditions and local disaster information): http://www.facebook.com/QueenslandPolice?v=app_6009294086

Cyclone Preparation
For important advice and safety tips on preparing for a cyclone, please read EMQ’s “Preparing for Cyclones” pamphlet at http://www.emergency.qld.gov.au/emq/css/pdf/English_Cyclone%20Book_11oct07.pdf

Queensland Government State Disaster Management Group
For up to date information on disaster preparation and recovery, visit
http://www.disaster.qld.gov.au/

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TVP's rural educational program focuses on Tibetan language preservation and literacy. When you make a donation, it enables us to support about ten schools with 1200 students through stipends, tuition, food, warm blankets and clothing, textbooks, and school supplies. TVP also teaches visitors how to protect and respect Tibet's environment.It also raises awareness of Tibetan culture through photo exhibits, presentations and cultural events.Most rural Tibetans still face enormous challenges in healthcare. Many find it nearly impossible to access healthcare and can't afford to pay for it. TVP provides medical supplies, equipment, stipends, frequent training opportunities for healthcare workers.

There are almost four thousand dead. Even more thousands have been severly injured. Please help assist survivors, no matter where their political loyalties lie.

Please consider donating or reposting. Thank you so much if you do. This is so terrible and heartbreaking.