The famous topless duel between two aristocratic princesses

 

"The Scandalous Duel of the Aristocratic Divas!"

Vienna, 1892 – High society was left reeling this week as news spread of an extraordinary duel between two of the most glamorous women of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Princess Pauline von Metternich, a fiery aristocrat known for her sharp wit and sharper temper, clashed in a sword fight with Countess Anastasia Kielmannsegg, a rival noblewoman with an equally fearsome reputation. The reason? A petty feud over floral arrangements at a charity gala spiralled into a matter of honour that only blood could resolve!

The scandalous event took place in a secluded grove near Vaduz. Attendees—yes, there were witnesses to this shocking spectacle—included other society ladies who dared not intervene. Most shocking of all, the duel was conducted topless, a detail that has tongues wagging from Vienna to Paris. Sources claim this bizarre arrangement was at the insistence of their seconds, women themselves, who feared clothing might infect any wounds.

Under the watchful eye of Baroness Lubinska, a renowned advocate of women’s rights and, it seems sword duels, the combatants squared off. The Princess, her hair swept back into a severe bun, wielded her blade with the precision of an artist, while the Countess, younger and reportedly more athletic, displayed raw aggression. Spectators described the clash as “more savage than genteel,” with both women sustaining cuts and drawing blood.

Though the Countess lunged with dramatic flair, Princess Pauline ultimately triumphed, slashing her opponent across the forearm and forcing her to yield. Both women, bloodied but unbroken, reportedly embraced after the duel, declaring the matter resolved. Society insiders speculate the real tension between the two stemmed not from flowers but whispers of jealousy and competition in Vienna’s glittering ballrooms.

Predictably, the duel has sent shockwaves through the Empire. Critics have decried it as a disgrace to nobility, while feminists hail it as a bold statement of women’s independence. The scandal has only boosted Princess Pauline’s infamy, with some already calling her “the Swordswoman of Vienna.”

What’s next for the fierce princess and her vanquished rival? Will Countess Anastasia seek revenge, or has the sword settled the score? One thing is certain: high society will never forget this daring display of aristocratic vengeance.

The face of the Statue of Liberty

 Isabella Eugenie Boyer was a French woman who lived a life of luxury and tragedy. Here's a brief overview of her life story:

Nuclear submarine strikes underwater mountain

 The USS San Francisco (SSN-711) was involved in a major underwater collision on January 8, 2005, while operating in the Pacific Ocean. Here are some details about the incident:

Collision Details:

1. Location: The incident occurred approximately 350 miles southwest of Guam.

2. Depth: The submarine was operating at a depth of around 525 feet.

3. Speed: The USS San Francisco was traveling at a speed of about 20-25 knots.

4. Impact: The submarine struck an underwater mountain, which caused significant damage to its bow.

The USS San Francisco's collision with an underwater mountain on January 8, 2005, had severe consequences. The impact was so intense that the vessel almost sank, and the crew fought desperately to maintain positive buoyancy and surface. Unfortunately, Machinist's Mate Second Class Joseph Allen Ashley, 24, lost his life due to head injuries sustained during the collision.

Ninety-eight crew members were injured, with some suffering broken bones, spinal injuries, and lacerations. The submarine itself suffered significant damage, with ruptured forward ballast tanks and a severely damaged sonar dome. However, fortunately, the pressure hull and nuclear reactor remained intact.

The incident led to a thorough investigation, which revealed that critical navigational and voyage planning procedures were not followed. This oversight resulted in the captain being relieved of his command and six crew members receiving non-judicial punishment hearings. The investigation also highlighted the need for improved charting and navigation procedures to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Damage and Repairs:

1. Extent of damage: The collision damaged the submarine's bow, sonar dome, and forward ballast tanks.

2. Repair cost: Estimates suggested a repair cost of around $100-150 million.

3. Repair duration: The repairs took approximately 2 years to complete.

Investigation and Findings:

1. Investigation: The US Navy conducted an investigation into the incident.

2. Causes: The investigation found that inadequate navigation and charting procedures contributed to the collision.

3. Recommendations: The Navy implemented changes to its navigation procedures to prevent similar incidents.

Awards and Recognition:

1. Heroism: The crew's prompt response and damage control efforts prevented more severe consequences.

2. Awards: The crew received several awards, including the Navy Unit Commendation.

The USS San Francisco returned to service after repairs and continues to serve as a vital asset in the US Navy's submarine fleet and is currently a moored training ship at the Nuclear Power School.¹ After a storied career spanning over four decades, the submarine was decommissioned on May 15, 2022.

Its journey to this point was marked by a significant incident in 2005, where it collided with an underwater mountain while operating at flank speed, resulting in the loss of one life and injuries to 98 crew members. The submarine underwent extensive repairs, including a bow replacement, and returned to service in 2009.

Key Milestones:

- Decommissioning: May 15, 2022

- Conversion to Moored Training Ship: Completed in mid-2021

- Final Deployment: Returned to Point Loma in October 2016

- Collision Incident: January 8, 2005

NASA to grow plants on the moon

NASA has announced that during the Artemis III mission, humans will take their first steps back on the Moon after 50 years and will cultivate lunar-grown plants to return to Earth for the first time..

Known as Lunar Effects on Agricultural Flora (LEAF), the project will collect plant growth and development data to help scientists understand the use of plants grown for human nutrition and life support on the Moon and beyond.

Navy training ship Nave Amerigo Vespucci coming to Australia

Nave Amerigo Vespucci and the Villaggio Italia on their way to Australia. For the first time in its history, the Navy training ship, will stop in Darwin, (the 24th stop on its World Tour) from October 3 to October 7.

The story of the Swiss Army Knife

The Swiss Army Knife is an iconic multi-tool known for its versatility and precision craftsmanship with a story dating back to Switzerland in the late 19th century.

What really happened to Amelia Earhart?

There are several theories about Amelia Earhart's disappearance on July 2, 1937, during her attempted flight around the world. Here are some of the most popular ones:

What is monkeypox and is it dangerous?

Although rare, Monkeypox can be a dangerous viral disease caused by the monkeypox virus. The disease belongs to the Orthopoxvirus genus, similar to smallpox, cowpox, and camelpox. It is typically found in Central and West Africa, but recent outbreaks have occurred globally.

Who is British entrepreneur and businessman Mike Lynch?

Mike Lynch is a British entrepreneur and businessman, best known as the co-founder and former CEO of Autonomy Corporation, a software company acquired by Hewlett-Packard (HP) in 2011.

UPDATE: Mike Lynch missing after superyacht sinking (Reuters)

EXPOSED: The Brazen Career of Conman Peter Foster

Source: Sydney Morning Herald

A Decades-Long Trail of Deceit and Fraud

Sydney, NSW - Peter Foster, the notorious Australian conman, has left a trail of devastation in his wake, swindling millions from unsuspecting victims across the globe. With a career spanning over three decades, Foster's audacious scams have captivated and outraged the public, earning him the dubious title of "Australia's most notorious conman."

Children and death in classic nursery rhymes

Everydayness is an inherently subjective experience. In considering the concept of everdayness in children’s literature, the reflexivity involved must be acknowledged. Literature often written for or about children is done so by adult authors with assumptions and biases stemming from personal experiences and cultural ideals. 

Commemorating the life of an extraordinary Yorke Peninsula flier, Captain Harry Butler

Captain Harry Butler was an aviation pioneer said to be almost as famous as the premier in the years after World War One – wowing the people of Adelaide with spins, dives and loop-the-loops in his famous “Red Devil” Bristol monoplane. 

Australia for UNHCR launches refugee cookbook

Australia for UNHCR has launched a new online cookbook showcasing treasured recipes by current and former refugees to raise money for the UN Refugee Agency, ahead of World Refugee Day (Thursday 20 June 2024).

Flavours of Hope includes recipes and stories from ten remarkable individuals, including those who have found safety in Australia and others living as refugees overseas.

“Although our contributors have survived extremely difficult experiences, they have not lost the urge to share what they have with others – in this case, their stories, their culture and their food,” Australia for UNHCR CEO, Trudi Mitchell, said.

“I encourage everyone to download the free book via our website to experience these amazing recipes and help support the cause.”

The release of the cookbook coincides with World Refugee Day, an annual celebration of the talent, contribution and resilience of refugees in our community.

Australia for UNHCR Ambassador and founder of Boost Juice, Janine Allis, is making a donation every time someone downloads the book.

These funds will go towards UNHCR’s life-saving work helping people flee conflict, disaster and persecution around the world.

Fatima Yousufi and her mother Khadija. ©Australia for UNHCR/Sally Hulse.

Cooks featured in Flavours of Hope include former AFLW player and Australia for UNHCR Ambassador Akec Makur Chuot, Melbourne restaurant owner Hamed Allahyari, and Captain of the Afghan women’s football team, Fatima Yousufi.

“Afghan food has a very special taste. The flavours are so unique and whenever those smells hit my nose, it takes me straight back to my childhood,” Fatima Yousufi said.

“Eating Afghan food in Australia has allowed me to feel much more alive and connected.”

The free cookbook can be downloaded via: unrefugees.org.au/cookbook

CDU EXPERT: It’s getting hot in here – we need to learn to live with it

Charles Darwin University heat stress expert Dr Sarah Carter. Dr Carter is a member of the Heat and Health Research Incubator group, and has been part of the team implementing the Australian Open heat stress scales.

Dr. Carter is an expert on:

• The impact of heatwaves on the human body, following recent heatwaves in Delhi and Athens.
• How to manage and adapt to heat stress.
• Internal and external factors contributing to heat stress.

"Heatwaves provide significant stress to our systems by way of cardiovascular, renal, and gastrointestinal stress.

The Art of Suffering - Cycling Photography Book Published by Laurence King Publishing

 

On 13th June, Laurence King Publishing will publish The Art of Suffering: Capturing the Brutal Beauty of Road Cycling, by world-class pro-cycling photographer Kristof Ramon (Kramon). The visually stunning photography book offers an intimate look into the world of professional road cycling through the eyes of Kramon, who captures moments of intense determination, and the raw emotion that defines the sport. With a foreword by Belgian superstar racer Wout van Aert, and texts and insight by award-winning author Matt Rendell, readers are given an insider's view on the resilience and pain endurance demanded by the sport.

Enchanting Singapore: a new travel guide from David Bowden

Enchanting Singapore, one of several books in Southeast Asia’s bestselling travel pictorial series, has just been updated and republished for its fourth edition. This 80-page, hardcover book has numerous photographs of Singapore’s main tourist attractions and sites to make it the perfect gift or souvenir of this Asian island nation. First published in 2012 by John Beaufoy (UK), it has been fully updated with the latest information, statistics and attractions by Asian-based writer, David Bowden.

Should we worry about Global Warming - and what can we do?

#globalwarming 

Global warming is the increase in the average temperature of the Earth. Many people believe that this is only a myth and that it isn’t really happening. However, we can barely see or feel any change such as in the temperature because there is only a very minor difference. An increase in average temperature of around 1.5 degrees Celsius is all it takes for global warming to occur. By analysing   glacier sizes over time, amount of carbon dioxide in ice sheets, coral reefs and tree rings, scientists can find out a lot about the history of Earth’s climate and what it was like compared to today to get an idea of where Earth is heading towards in the future.

Meet Turtlebug Hammock Stand, Where Innovation Meets Relaxation

Great news for outdoor enthusiasts everywhere!

Picture this: a hammock stand that practically sets itself up, adapts to your every need, and fits in your backpack with ease. Meet the Turtlebug by YOBOgear, where innovation meets relaxation.

It offers a convenient and practical solution for hammock enthusiasts looking for a portable and easy-to-use hammock stand. Its versatility, durability, and quick setup make it an attractive option for both leisure and camping purposes.



The Turtlebug offers maximum comfort in a minimalist design.

Free-standing Design: The Turtlebug is completely free-standing, requiring no trees or additional supports for setup.

Quick Setup: With its patent-pending Turtlebug hubs and shock cords within the poles, the stand sets up in less than ONE MINUTE, straight out of the bag.

Modular and Versatile: Available in 4 interchangeable sizes, easily adaptable to suit the user's needs.

Strength and Durability: Made from durable 6000 series aluminum poles, the Turtlebug offers an excellent strength-to-weight ratio, supporting weights from 300 to 500 lbs depending on the model.

Easy Portability: While sturdy, the stand packs down into a compact size, fitting easily into a backpack, duffel bag, or carry-on suitcase.

YOBOgear is known in the industry for its high-quality hammock stands that are built to last. Whether you're a seasoned camper, a beach enthusiast, or simply love relaxing in nature, the Turtlebug by YOBOgear is your ticket to comfort and convenience.