["Swine flu cases grow in number"; as submitted to You Tube by wavy on April 25, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6c5hQhpzm2Q]
From: Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (cdc@service.govdelivery.com)
Sent: Sat 4/25/09 7:46 PM
To: wingedbirdinflight@live.com
"CDC Swine Flu Investigation Continues: 11 Confirmed Cases in U.S."
"...As of April 25 at 7:30 PM ET, CDC has confirmed 11 human cases of swine flu in the United States: seven in California, two in Texas, and two in Kansas. CDC continues to investigate other suspected cases. Investigations are ongoing to determine the source of the infection and whether additional people have been infected with similar swine influenza viruses.
CDC is working very closely with state and local officials in California, Texas, as well as with health officials in Mexico, Canada and the World Health Organization. On April 24th, CDC deployed 7 epidemiologists to San Diego County, California and Imperial County, California and 1 senior medical officer to Texas to provide guidance and technical support for the ongoing epidemiologic field investigations. CDC has also deployed to Mexico 1 medical officer and 1 senior expert who are part of a global team that is responding to the outbreak of respiratory illnesses in Mexico.
Influenza is thought to spread mainly person-to-person through coughing or sneezing of infected people. There are many things you can to do to prevent getting and spreading influenza. Visit the CDC Swine Flu website [ http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/ ]to learn more..." [A Direct Link Will Be Placed in the Sidebar.]
Saturday, April 25, 2009
Public Health Alert - Possible Swine Flu Outbreak - AP Article... Road Runner... Associated You Tube... Associated Press... Video
["Swine Flu Deaths Spur Global Epidemic Fears"; as submitted to You Tube by AssociatedPress on
April 24, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kGLtVelSNgI]
"WHO declares international concern over swine flu" by Frank Jordans, Associated Press [Published - Apr 25 2009 03:56PM EST]
"... The World Health Organization warned countries around the world Saturday to be on alert for any unusual flu outbreaks after a unique new swine flu virus was implicated in possibly dozens of human deaths in North America.
WHO Director-General Margaret Chan said the outbreak in Mexico and the United States constituted a 'public health emergency of international concern.'
The decision means countries around the world will be asked to step up reporting and surveillance of the disease, which she said had 'pandemic potential' because it is an animal virus strain infecting people. But the agency cannot at this stage say 'whether or not it will indeed cause a pandemic,' she added.
Chan made the decision to declare public health emergency of international concern after consulting with influenza experts from around the world. The emergency committee was called together Saturday for the first time since it was created in 2007.
In theory, WHO could now recommend travel advisories, trade restrictions or border closures, none of which would be binding. So far it has refrained from doing so.
The agency also held off raising its pandemic alert level, citing the need for more information.
Earlier, Chan told reporters that 'it would be prudent for health officials within countries to be alert to outbreaks of influenza-like illness or pneumonia, especially if these occur in months outside the usual peak influenza season.'
'Another important signal is excess cases of severe or fatal flu-like illness in groups other than young children and the elderly, who are usually at highest risk during normal seasonal flu,' she said.
Several Latin American and Asian countries have already started surveillance or screening at airports and other points of entry.
At least 62 people have died from severe pneumonia caused by a flu-like illness in Mexico, WHO says. Some of those who died are confirmed to have a unique flu type that is a combination of bird, pig and human viruses. The virus is genetically identical to one found in California.
U.S. authorities said eight people were infected with swine flu in California and Texas, and all recovered.
So far, no other countries have reported suspicious cases, according to WHO.
But the French government said suspected cases are likely to occur in the coming days because of global air travel. A French government crisis group began operating Saturday. The government has already closed the French school in Mexico City and provided French citizens there with detailed instructions on precautions.
Chilean authorities ordered a sanitary alert that included airport screening of passengers arriving from Mexico. No cases of the disease have been reported so far in the country, Deputy Health Minister Jeanette Vega said, but those showing symptoms will be sent to a hospital for tests.
In Peru, authorities will monitor travelers arriving from Mexico and the U.S. and people with flu-like symptoms will be evaluated by health teams, Peru's Health Ministry said.
Brazil will 'intensify its health surveillance in all points of entry into the country,' the Health Ministry's National Health Surveillance Agency said in a statement. Measures will also be put in place to inspect cargo and luggage, and to clean and disinfect aircraft and ships at ports of entry.
Some Asian nations enforced checks Saturday on passengers from Mexico.
Japan's biggest international airport stepped up health surveillance, while the Philippines said it may quarantine passengers with fevers who have been to Mexico. Health authorities in Thailand and Hong Kong said they were closely monitoring the situation.
Asia has fresh memories of an outbreak of severe acute respiratory syndrome, or SARS, which hit countries across the region and severely crippled global air travel.
Indonesia, China, Thailand, Vietnam and other countries have also seen a number of human deaths from H5N1 bird flu, the virus that researchers have until now fingered as the most likely cause of a future pandemic.
The Dutch government's Institute for Public Health and Environment has advised any traveler who returned from Mexico since April 17 and develops a fever over 101.3 degrees Fahrenheit (38.5 Celsius) within four days of arriving in the Netherlands to stay at home.
The Polish Foreign Ministry has issued a statement that recommends that Poles postpone any travel plans to regions where the outbreak has occurred until it is totally contained.
The Stockholm-based European Center for Disease Prevention and Control said earlier Saturday it shared the concerns about the swine flu cases and stood ready to lend support in any way possible."
Associated Press Writer Maria Cheng in London, and AP writers around the world contributed to this report.
---------------------------------------------------
Sources:
"WHO declares international concern over swine flu"; Frank Jordans, Associated Press [Published - Apr 25 2009 03:56PM EST]
"WHO Mexico swine flu has pandemic potential" - Road Runner -http://www.rr.com/news/news/article/9020/7556093
Site (above) Options: Email, Share, Facebook, MySpace, delicious, digg, reddit, StumbleUpon, twitter
---------------------------------------------------
Wash those hands folks! Seriously.
---------------------------------------------------
NS
April 24, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kGLtVelSNgI]
"WHO declares international concern over swine flu" by Frank Jordans, Associated Press [Published - Apr 25 2009 03:56PM EST]
"... The World Health Organization warned countries around the world Saturday to be on alert for any unusual flu outbreaks after a unique new swine flu virus was implicated in possibly dozens of human deaths in North America.
WHO Director-General Margaret Chan said the outbreak in Mexico and the United States constituted a 'public health emergency of international concern.'
The decision means countries around the world will be asked to step up reporting and surveillance of the disease, which she said had 'pandemic potential' because it is an animal virus strain infecting people. But the agency cannot at this stage say 'whether or not it will indeed cause a pandemic,' she added.
Chan made the decision to declare public health emergency of international concern after consulting with influenza experts from around the world. The emergency committee was called together Saturday for the first time since it was created in 2007.
In theory, WHO could now recommend travel advisories, trade restrictions or border closures, none of which would be binding. So far it has refrained from doing so.
The agency also held off raising its pandemic alert level, citing the need for more information.
Earlier, Chan told reporters that 'it would be prudent for health officials within countries to be alert to outbreaks of influenza-like illness or pneumonia, especially if these occur in months outside the usual peak influenza season.'
'Another important signal is excess cases of severe or fatal flu-like illness in groups other than young children and the elderly, who are usually at highest risk during normal seasonal flu,' she said.
Several Latin American and Asian countries have already started surveillance or screening at airports and other points of entry.
At least 62 people have died from severe pneumonia caused by a flu-like illness in Mexico, WHO says. Some of those who died are confirmed to have a unique flu type that is a combination of bird, pig and human viruses. The virus is genetically identical to one found in California.
U.S. authorities said eight people were infected with swine flu in California and Texas, and all recovered.
So far, no other countries have reported suspicious cases, according to WHO.
But the French government said suspected cases are likely to occur in the coming days because of global air travel. A French government crisis group began operating Saturday. The government has already closed the French school in Mexico City and provided French citizens there with detailed instructions on precautions.
Chilean authorities ordered a sanitary alert that included airport screening of passengers arriving from Mexico. No cases of the disease have been reported so far in the country, Deputy Health Minister Jeanette Vega said, but those showing symptoms will be sent to a hospital for tests.
In Peru, authorities will monitor travelers arriving from Mexico and the U.S. and people with flu-like symptoms will be evaluated by health teams, Peru's Health Ministry said.
Brazil will 'intensify its health surveillance in all points of entry into the country,' the Health Ministry's National Health Surveillance Agency said in a statement. Measures will also be put in place to inspect cargo and luggage, and to clean and disinfect aircraft and ships at ports of entry.
Some Asian nations enforced checks Saturday on passengers from Mexico.
Japan's biggest international airport stepped up health surveillance, while the Philippines said it may quarantine passengers with fevers who have been to Mexico. Health authorities in Thailand and Hong Kong said they were closely monitoring the situation.
Asia has fresh memories of an outbreak of severe acute respiratory syndrome, or SARS, which hit countries across the region and severely crippled global air travel.
Indonesia, China, Thailand, Vietnam and other countries have also seen a number of human deaths from H5N1 bird flu, the virus that researchers have until now fingered as the most likely cause of a future pandemic.
The Dutch government's Institute for Public Health and Environment has advised any traveler who returned from Mexico since April 17 and develops a fever over 101.3 degrees Fahrenheit (38.5 Celsius) within four days of arriving in the Netherlands to stay at home.
The Polish Foreign Ministry has issued a statement that recommends that Poles postpone any travel plans to regions where the outbreak has occurred until it is totally contained.
The Stockholm-based European Center for Disease Prevention and Control said earlier Saturday it shared the concerns about the swine flu cases and stood ready to lend support in any way possible."
Associated Press Writer Maria Cheng in London, and AP writers around the world contributed to this report.
---------------------------------------------------
Sources:
"WHO declares international concern over swine flu"; Frank Jordans, Associated Press [Published - Apr 25 2009 03:56PM EST]
"WHO Mexico swine flu has pandemic potential" - Road Runner -http://www.rr.com/news/news/article/9020/7556093
Site (above) Options: Email, Share, Facebook, MySpace, delicious, digg, reddit, StumbleUpon, twitter
---------------------------------------------------
Wash those hands folks! Seriously.
---------------------------------------------------
NS
Tulips... Barbara Streisand... The US Constitution... Human Dignity... William Brennan...
Beautifuly music / tulips video accompanied by Barbara Streisands song, "The Way We Were"...
["Tulips, Tulips, Tulips"; as submitted to You Tube by judibug007 on February 26, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9IQz5-oiUEg]
Quote for Today:
“...The genius of the Constitution rests not in any static meaning it might have had in a world that is dead and gone, but in the adaptibility of its great principles to cope with current problems and current needs... If we are to be as a shining city upon a hill, it will be because of our ceaseless pursuit of the constitutional ideal of human dignity."
William J. Brennan (born 4/25/1906) in a 1985 speech that rebutted "the desire of then-Attorney General Edwin Meese to 'resurrect the original meaning of constitutional provisions'" [news@ffrf.org]
--------------------------------------------------
It is supposed to be hot out there today folks...
So enjoy the tulips (Many thanks to many people!) that are filling the city with vibrant colors!
--------------------------------------------------
Peace, Love, Equality and Humane Justice,
NS
["Tulips, Tulips, Tulips"; as submitted to You Tube by judibug007 on February 26, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9IQz5-oiUEg]
Quote for Today:
“...The genius of the Constitution rests not in any static meaning it might have had in a world that is dead and gone, but in the adaptibility of its great principles to cope with current problems and current needs... If we are to be as a shining city upon a hill, it will be because of our ceaseless pursuit of the constitutional ideal of human dignity."
William J. Brennan (born 4/25/1906) in a 1985 speech that rebutted "the desire of then-Attorney General Edwin Meese to 'resurrect the original meaning of constitutional provisions'" [news@ffrf.org]
--------------------------------------------------
It is supposed to be hot out there today folks...
So enjoy the tulips (Many thanks to many people!) that are filling the city with vibrant colors!
--------------------------------------------------
Peace, Love, Equality and Humane Justice,
NS
Thursday, April 23, 2009
Alderman Mike Madsen's Fundraiser... You Tube Videos... Blog Updates.... More
[Photo of Jean Jacobs and 9th Ward Alderman Mike Madsen at the Obama Inauguration Party (Former Muddy Cup / Kingston)]Three things:
My husband and I attended a fundraiser for 9th Ward Alderman Mike Madsen last night - and we found it to be a classy event with good company, good food and high hopes! Mike is a City Alderman plus - in our opinion - as he reaches out to - and serves the people in the City of Kingston in a number of ways - both Ward specific and (via his blog, his constant pursuit of knowledge, etc) in a larger sense of the word. Our thanks go out to Mike (politics, professionalism, integrity, warmth and kindness can all come together in one package) and to all of those that helped put on this inspiring event!
["Welcome to Congress, YouTube"; as submitted to You Tube by househub on January 11, 2009;http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=avch-fRFmbw ]
Some notable politicians (mostly local) at last night's event were U.C. Comptroller E. Aurerbach (sp?); U.C. Legislature D. Donaldson, U.C. Legislature J. Provenzano, K.C. Alderman T. Hoffay, K.C. Alderwoman S. Whitlock, a former Senatorial candidate (with more to come?)- and a bunch of others (local and statewide) whose names I don't fully know and/or don't trust myself to spell correctly! All in all (Why not come out and get to know some of these people better?) it was a great turnout!
["Ghostbusters Cartoon Intro"; as submitted to You Tube by mikey2455 on October 25, 2006; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2xfwz2TRGss]
My old blog is now booked as http://www.spreadingourwings4.blogspot.com [The "4" is new]
This blog (where all future updates will be) is named "Flying Towards the Sun" but booked as http://www.flingingtowardsthesun.blogspot.com [Note the "flinging" / I guess I was having a bad WWW day!]
I apologize for any confusion this has caused. In this case the changes were NOT intentional, so I'll have to lay the blame (lol) on a "ghost in the machine."
If you note any errors here please let me know and I will promptly correct them!
Peace, Love, Equality and Humane Justice,
NS
Great Spirit Prayer... Douglas Spotted Eagle... Native American... You Tube Video
["Great Spirit Prayer - Douglas Spotted Eagle - Native American"; as submitted to You Tube by katydidscorner on October 25, 2008; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_dkP_vWEXHo]
As we teach our children well, the wells of life will be replenished...
NS
As we teach our children well, the wells of life will be replenished...
NS
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Lots to Consider... Torture... Geneva Convention... Your Thoughts... More... You Tube Videos
From 2007:
1. Something You Might Not Have Been Aware Of...
["Mentally Ill Veterans Sent Back To War"; as submitted to You Tube by WCVBtv on November 12, 2007;
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EPNCrvKo7eU]
2. Lest we forget... [Graphic / Viewer Discretion Advised]
["cia torture in iraq tv3 nz"; as submitted by riverdean7 on December 13, 2007; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ThyCwhjRXhg]
From 2008:
1. A student's report on the Geneva Convention...
["The Third Geneva Convention"; as submitted to You Tube by flybirdxz on March 16, 2008; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EpJmLYf9yDc]
2. War and PTSD:
["War Veterans Suffer from PTSD"; as submitted to You Tube by NYPost on July 07, 2008; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z0DMNpYa3dg]
3. Moving Along...
["Politics: MSNBC First 100 Days Edition"; as submitted to You Tube by TheNewYorkTimes on April 21, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cjbJsD7DBuM]
From 2009
Senator Sheldon and Rachel Maddow...
["Sheldon Applauds Obama for Releasing Torture Memos on MSNBCs Rachel Maddow Show"; as submitted to You Tube by SenatorWhitehouse on April 21, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wo8zwqzt1pA]
2. Your thoughts?
1. Something You Might Not Have Been Aware Of...
["Mentally Ill Veterans Sent Back To War"; as submitted to You Tube by WCVBtv on November 12, 2007;
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EPNCrvKo7eU]
2. Lest we forget... [Graphic / Viewer Discretion Advised]
["cia torture in iraq tv3 nz"; as submitted by riverdean7 on December 13, 2007; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ThyCwhjRXhg]
From 2008:
1. A student's report on the Geneva Convention...
["The Third Geneva Convention"; as submitted to You Tube by flybirdxz on March 16, 2008; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EpJmLYf9yDc]
2. War and PTSD:
["War Veterans Suffer from PTSD"; as submitted to You Tube by NYPost on July 07, 2008; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z0DMNpYa3dg]
3. Moving Along...
["Politics: MSNBC First 100 Days Edition"; as submitted to You Tube by TheNewYorkTimes on April 21, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cjbJsD7DBuM]
From 2009
Senator Sheldon and Rachel Maddow...
["Sheldon Applauds Obama for Releasing Torture Memos on MSNBCs Rachel Maddow Show"; as submitted to You Tube by SenatorWhitehouse on April 21, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wo8zwqzt1pA]
2. Your thoughts?
Monday, April 20, 2009
Doris Goodwin: What we can learn from past presidents...Barry Schwartz: The paradox of choice... Two Great You Tube Videos
Lots to Think About!
["Doris Kearns Goodwin: What we can learn from past presidents"; as submitted to You Tube by TEDtalksDirector on October 10, 2008; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vgGmnHHlIXo]
["Barry Schwartz: The paradox of choice"; as submitted to You Tube by TEDtalksDirector on January 16, 2007; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VO6XEQIsCoM]
["Doris Kearns Goodwin: What we can learn from past presidents"; as submitted to You Tube by TEDtalksDirector on October 10, 2008; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vgGmnHHlIXo]
["Barry Schwartz: The paradox of choice"; as submitted to You Tube by TEDtalksDirector on January 16, 2007; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VO6XEQIsCoM]
Sunday, April 19, 2009
Rachel Maddow on Torture and Accountability... You Tube
["Accountability for torture - Rachel Maddow pt 1"; submitted to You Tube by cheneywatch on April 18, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KTQq9Ub-yNc]
Saturday, April 18, 2009
Reba McEntire-Fancy... This One's For The Girls - Live In Concert... You Tube Videos
["Reba McEntire-Fancy"; as submitted to You Tube by TOPaBOY on December 17, 2006; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_K6Y-YGZUec]
Soon to be Released...
["This One's For The Girls - Live In Concert"; as posted on You Tube by martinamcbride on April 08, 2008; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W9nVoQpB7cE]
Passing This On (From My Email):
"DAILY WOMEN'S HEALTH POLICY REPORT...
OPINION | Abstinence-Only Sex Education Fails Teens, Texas Rep. Says in Opinion Piece
[April 14, 2009]
The abstinence-only approach to sex education currently used in Texas schools and other states across the country "isn't working," Texas state Rep. Joaquin Castro (D), vice chair of the Texas House Committee on Higher Education, writes in a San Antonio Express-News opinion piece. Texas has the third highest teen birth rate in the nation -- 50% higher than the national average -- he notes, adding that increases across all "races and ethnicities ... demonstrate that the current lack of sexual health curriculum in our schools is seriously harming all of our children." Texas taxpayers spent $1 billion on teenage pregnancies and an estimated $15.1 billion over a 13-year period, according to a 2004 study by the National Campaign To Prevent Teen and Unplanned Pregnancy, Castro writes.
"Despite these costs, 94% of students in Texas receive abstinence-only sexual education and, to date, more than $1 billion in federal funding has been spent on abstinence-only education," he adds. Texas ranks No. 1 in the amount of federal funding for "abstinence-only education dollars in the country -- more than $18 million" -- he writes. According to Castro, teens "need to know that we want them to stay in school and graduate, foster healthy communication with their peers and their parents, cultivate healthy living skills such as goal-setting and responsible decision-making about sexual health, and to leave parenting to later in life when they are emotionally and financially prepared." He adds that the Education Works Act (H.B 741) "will ensure that teens learn about abstinence, healthy relationships and appropriate birth control methods so that they can protect themselves from an unintended pregnancy or sexually transmitted [infections] when they do become sexually active -- whether that is at age 16, 18 or 25."
A comprehensive sex education curriculum that gives medically accurate information to teens is needed because "[w]e can't continue failing teens by keeping important and lifesaving information about contraception from them," Castro writes. He concludes that "a curriculum based solely on abstinence and birth control failure rates isn't keeping Texas teens from becoming sexually active nor does it help avoid pregnancies or" STIs, adding that it "only makes it more difficult for teens to make healthy and informed life choices" (Castro, San Antonio Express-News, 4/9)" (National Partnership for Women & Families; http://www.nationalpartnership.org/site/News2?abbr=daily2_&page=NewsArticle&id=16451&security=1201&news_iv_ctrl=-1
Soon to be Released...
["This One's For The Girls - Live In Concert"; as posted on You Tube by martinamcbride on April 08, 2008; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W9nVoQpB7cE]
Passing This On (From My Email):
"DAILY WOMEN'S HEALTH POLICY REPORT...
OPINION | Abstinence-Only Sex Education Fails Teens, Texas Rep. Says in Opinion Piece
[April 14, 2009]
The abstinence-only approach to sex education currently used in Texas schools and other states across the country "isn't working," Texas state Rep. Joaquin Castro (D), vice chair of the Texas House Committee on Higher Education, writes in a San Antonio Express-News opinion piece. Texas has the third highest teen birth rate in the nation -- 50% higher than the national average -- he notes, adding that increases across all "races and ethnicities ... demonstrate that the current lack of sexual health curriculum in our schools is seriously harming all of our children." Texas taxpayers spent $1 billion on teenage pregnancies and an estimated $15.1 billion over a 13-year period, according to a 2004 study by the National Campaign To Prevent Teen and Unplanned Pregnancy, Castro writes.
"Despite these costs, 94% of students in Texas receive abstinence-only sexual education and, to date, more than $1 billion in federal funding has been spent on abstinence-only education," he adds. Texas ranks No. 1 in the amount of federal funding for "abstinence-only education dollars in the country -- more than $18 million" -- he writes. According to Castro, teens "need to know that we want them to stay in school and graduate, foster healthy communication with their peers and their parents, cultivate healthy living skills such as goal-setting and responsible decision-making about sexual health, and to leave parenting to later in life when they are emotionally and financially prepared." He adds that the Education Works Act (H.B 741) "will ensure that teens learn about abstinence, healthy relationships and appropriate birth control methods so that they can protect themselves from an unintended pregnancy or sexually transmitted [infections] when they do become sexually active -- whether that is at age 16, 18 or 25."
A comprehensive sex education curriculum that gives medically accurate information to teens is needed because "[w]e can't continue failing teens by keeping important and lifesaving information about contraception from them," Castro writes. He concludes that "a curriculum based solely on abstinence and birth control failure rates isn't keeping Texas teens from becoming sexually active nor does it help avoid pregnancies or" STIs, adding that it "only makes it more difficult for teens to make healthy and informed life choices" (Castro, San Antonio Express-News, 4/9)" (National Partnership for Women & Families; http://www.nationalpartnership.org/site/News2?abbr=daily2_&page=NewsArticle&id=16451&security=1201&news_iv_ctrl=-1
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Popeye - I Yam What I Yam - Robin Williams Shelley Duvall... Free Write... Bob Marley - Redemption Song
["Popeye - I Yam What I Yam - Robin Williams Shelley Duvall"; as submitted to You Tube by essexboi1993
on June 30, 2007; www.youtube.com/watch?v=F8TRoMSG-5I]
Every nobody is somebody. Every word spoken leaves many words unsaid. Every life that turns bitter is a pill all will have to swallow. Every lie told is a facet of
shame that burdens all - not just the carrier - of mankind.
I am nobody, but somebody. "I am... what I am" - with a right to be, think, feel and form opinions - and to speak and write about the truth as I see it...
Like "Popeye" in a bar (minus spinach) - this blog (and my others) is where I "pull my punches" - "take my stand" - "am what I am."
'Tis a sad world that we live in today.
Full of conflicting messages...
Full of people attempting (in a variety of ways) to "sell" their fix or tricks...
Traumatic events occurring by the bucket load...
The less fortunate among us trying to "make it" - far too often - in any way they can...
The more fortunate among us trying - far too often - to make a profit off the exploitation (ignoring or pretending not to see the heartache and anguish that this creates) of others...
Every "system" (from the family to the government) - as Bob Dylan put it - "broken."
One must wonder; even the most hopeful among us, I would think...
What will the outcome of this ongoing "mess" be?
Will the collective consciousness of activism, recently inspired in some, be enough to pull us through?
Or is it really all about, as the saying goes, "the 'hokey pokey'"?
Are even the "players" being "played?"
Who is one to trust?
Is a crowd in a bar, loud and obnoxious at times... somehow more integral than a crowd in a boardroom?
"I am what I am."
Imperfect yet perfectionistic. Self-deprecating yet full of pride. Intelligent but impotent. One tiny bird in a mighty big sky...
You might like what I write and present here. You might not.
You might like what I have been able to accomplish in this lifetime. You might not.
But when you look in the mirror, please gaze at your own reflection...
Because when it comes to honesty, I'm pretty high up on the list - which is probably at least part of "why" I don't climb any ladders of influence or prosperity in this (the only one I'm familiar with) society...
Which is a "pretty sad statement...
Don't ya' think?
["Bob Marley - Redemption Song"; as submitted to You Tube by QueenRocker89 on August 24, 2007; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6yXRGdZdonM]
on June 30, 2007; www.youtube.com/watch?v=F8TRoMSG-5I]
Every nobody is somebody. Every word spoken leaves many words unsaid. Every life that turns bitter is a pill all will have to swallow. Every lie told is a facet of
shame that burdens all - not just the carrier - of mankind.
I am nobody, but somebody. "I am... what I am" - with a right to be, think, feel and form opinions - and to speak and write about the truth as I see it...
Like "Popeye" in a bar (minus spinach) - this blog (and my others) is where I "pull my punches" - "take my stand" - "am what I am."
'Tis a sad world that we live in today.
Full of conflicting messages...
Full of people attempting (in a variety of ways) to "sell" their fix or tricks...
Traumatic events occurring by the bucket load...
The less fortunate among us trying to "make it" - far too often - in any way they can...
The more fortunate among us trying - far too often - to make a profit off the exploitation (ignoring or pretending not to see the heartache and anguish that this creates) of others...
Every "system" (from the family to the government) - as Bob Dylan put it - "broken."
One must wonder; even the most hopeful among us, I would think...
What will the outcome of this ongoing "mess" be?
Will the collective consciousness of activism, recently inspired in some, be enough to pull us through?
Or is it really all about, as the saying goes, "the 'hokey pokey'"?
Are even the "players" being "played?"
Who is one to trust?
Is a crowd in a bar, loud and obnoxious at times... somehow more integral than a crowd in a boardroom?
"I am what I am."
Imperfect yet perfectionistic. Self-deprecating yet full of pride. Intelligent but impotent. One tiny bird in a mighty big sky...
You might like what I write and present here. You might not.
You might like what I have been able to accomplish in this lifetime. You might not.
But when you look in the mirror, please gaze at your own reflection...
Because when it comes to honesty, I'm pretty high up on the list - which is probably at least part of "why" I don't climb any ladders of influence or prosperity in this (the only one I'm familiar with) society...
Which is a "pretty sad statement...
Don't ya' think?
["Bob Marley - Redemption Song"; as submitted to You Tube by QueenRocker89 on August 24, 2007; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6yXRGdZdonM]
John F Kennedy Speech Before the American Newspaper Association... Dated but IMPRESSIVE... You Tube
["John F Kennedy Speech"; as submitted to You Tube by Burster1 on April 02, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=40vsjBHq7XI]
Sunday, April 12, 2009
America's First Puppy... You Tube
["America's First Puppy..."; as submitted to You Tube by myhope001 on 4/12/2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FlFwTeZyDAI]
Saturday, April 11, 2009
UlsterCorps Video... You Tube... Some Questions about Volunteerism v. Paid Employment... Thoughts... Likely Unpopular With Some... On the Matter
["Rik Flynn of UlsterCorps on Community Service"; as submitted to You Tube by ulstercorps on March 15, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-1J8aP6L-bg]
In the following write-up, on UlsterCorps and "volunteerism," a lot of organizations were ommitted due to space constraints and/or because my point HERE is to demonstrate (this blog write-up represents MY opinion, yours might differ) that a lot of purported "volunteer opportunities" could and should (?) be PAID POSITIONS - which could help (Do ya think?) our local economic situation (in terms of paid employment / the overall state of the economy) immensely!
Why are some organizations, some of which receive mega-bucks (through grants and such) not putting in budget-line requests to PAY for the number of PAID employees that they need? Do "you" think there is something "wrong" with this picture?
The following represents snippets that I "pulled out" of the overall listing (source noted down below) --- because a lot of these "volunteer" job titles sure sound like JOBS (I would include anything over 10 hours a week maximum, along with anything that requires extensive education, training or special expertise - in this category) to me...
At the end of this list are a couple of organizations seeking volunteers that seem (these two organizations) to have a much more rational [a few hours a week max) - fair - and/or viable (the last one has a reciprocal component) concept of just what volunteerism is (again, my opinion) meant to be...
Check out the following [note the items in bold (my doing)] and tell me what you think:
"AFFORDABLE/TRANSITIONAL HOUSING
FAMILY’s Midway of Kingston & Ellenville...
Volunteers needed for projects including painting all kids’ rooms and offices, gardening/landscaping in the spring, driving kids to laundry services, grocery shopping, job opportunities, medical appointments, etc. tutoring, both college level and high school, any extra curricular activities in the community, like movies, meals, theater, parks, swimming, etc...
Family Inn...
Needs fill-ins for weekends, evenings, and overnights. Possibly a 20-hour part-time overnight position 2 overnights a week...
EDUCATION/ARTS
Ulster Literacy Association Tutor Training Workshop...
The ULA student waiting list has reached 100! This means all these folks are waiting patiently to meet a tutor and get started on building their reading, writing and conversational skills. We really need volunteers and have two new trainings scheduled:
Over 3 Saturdays, 4/18, 4/25, 5/2, 8:30-3:30 on all dates.
Tuesdays & Thursdays May 12, 14, 19, 21, 26, 28, 6:00-9:00PM on all dates...
Workshop train adult volunteers to work in a one-to-one tutoring situation with adults who want to improve their reading and writing skills. There is a fee (You pay a "fee" for the "privilege" of volunteering?) of $20.00 to cover the cost of material and handouts. This is due at the time you sign up for a specific workshop.
Volunteers also needed to cover the front desk, handle the phone, and other office tasks...
UCCAC, Inc. Early Head Start/Head Start is searching for volunteers throughout Ulster County. The Kingston Childrens Learning Center... is especially in need of volunteers for the classroom...
United Way Ulster County - Volunteer Opportunities...
Loaned Executives, Employee Campaign Managers, Community Fund Volunteers
Loaned Executives serve as United Way ambassadors to local businesses. In this capacity they:
Teach employees and employers about United Way programs and services
Assist Employee Campaign Managers to set United Way campaign goals and plan campaign strategy
Coordinate United Way presentations
Distribute United Way materials
Employee Campaign Managers (ECM’s) are volunteers within companies that work closely with Loaned Executives to present information about the United Way to their fellow employees.
Community Fund Volunteers are responsible for reviewing requests for funding, and then making recommendations to the Board of Directors of the United Way of Ulster County...
Center for Creative Education... Kingston Location... Stone Ridge Location...
The mission of the Center for Creative Education is to create a better world by nurturing and empowering youth and community through the arts. The Kingston center offers a dance and percussion studio, homework and tutoring center, and a computer music lab that is being developed in collaboration with the Kingston School District’s Department of Fine Arts and Enrichment. Volunteers needed for office help, clean-up, and event assistance.
Hudson River Maritme Museum...
Year round & seasonal volunteers needed -
Museum Admission and Gift Shop Clerks, Docent, Computer Specialist, Grant Administrator...
EMERGENCY SERVICES
Family of Woodstock - Ways to Volunteer
Volunteer training program for work on 24 Hour Hotline. 3-hour shifts. Days, eves, weekends. Also Food Closet, Holiday programs...
HITS season begins May 20th. Volunteers needed to staff our Spectator gates during our Horse Shows (???). All proceeds from the gate go directly to Family of Woodstock. More info...
Bilingual Volunteers Needed at FAMILY’s ACMS...
Salvador Altamirano-Segura, program director of Family’s Adult Case Management Services (ACMS), has recently asked for volunteers to help enroll Spanish speaking clients in the Food Stamps Program. As a community based organization, we are able to submit client applications electronically from our sites. He is looking for volunteers to help with his Spanish speaking clients... [Wouldn't this be a great part time or full time job for Those with BiLingual (special) Skills?]
Additional Volunteer Opportunities at Family
GREEN ENERGY/SUSTAINABILITY
Sustainable Hudson Valley...
Volunteers needed to help SHV with communications and outreach, research support, office help or fundraising... Database manager — data entry and database setup, Excel knowledge required (approx 3 hours/ week, can do from your location)
Graphic designer — design print and web materials, work closely with highly skilled design director (one project or a stream of them — lots to do)Outreach volunteers — staff SHV information tables with material on all our programs (flexible, lots of evenings & weekends possible)Media monitors — if you are an avid reader of specialized media related to sustainability or the Hudson Valley, let us know and send us relevant clippings to feed our information-hunger
Hudson Valley Materials Exchange...
HVME is in desperate need of volunteers to help us finish our move. Help moving materials, painting inside of storage trailers, outreach and fundraising are needed. our most immediate need is help moving materials and painting.
HEALTH SERVICES...
American Red Cross, Ulster County Chapter - Volunteer Opportunities... Disaster Response Team Member, General Office Support, Health & Safety Volunteer Instructors, Leadership Committee Volunteers, Volunteer Administration Specialist, Volunteer Intake Specialist, Volunteer Recruitment Specialist.
Health Alliance - Benedictine Hospital Volunteer Services...
A range of rewarding volunteer opportunities, including serving patients, staffing the gift shop, assisting visitors at the information desk, and working as clerical and support staff...
Hospice, Inc...
Volunteers needed for office work, delivery of medications, provide respite care, etc...
Health Alliance - Kingston Hospital Volunteer Services...
A range of rewarding volunteer opportunities, including serving patients, staffing the gift shop, assisting visitors at the information desk, and working as clerical and support staff...
New Paltz Rescue Squad...
The Rescue Squad is a volunteer-based, not-for-profit organization that provides our community with professional, pre-hospital emergency care. Volunteers needed as ambulance drivers, EMTs and paramedics...
Ulster-Greene ARC
Volunteers needed to assist developmentally disabled adults with social activities and companionship...
LEGAL SERVICES
Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of Ulster County
Looking for volunteer advocates. Volunteers are assigned by Family Court to advocate for children in foster care. Advocates work with child and family...
----------------------------------------------------------------
Much more equitable - fair and impressive (in terms of the way in which I understand "volunteerism" - in my opinion:
1.
Gardiner Library
Station Sq/Gardiner 255-1255
Volunteers for the following library jobs would be greatly appreciated. The time frames below are suggestions.
Putting plastic covers on new books - One hour monthly
Deleting outdated magazines from system - One hour monthly
Looking through newspapers and clipping articles about the library - One hour monthly
Circulation Desk Help
Workers at the circulation desk are always welcome. We especially need help in the evening hours. You can come every week or once a month. You decide what works for you!
http://www.rcls.org/gar/
2.
Woodstock Time Bank
PO Box 783, Woodstock, NY 12498
845-679-4211, woodstocktimeexchange@hotmail.com
http://www.timebanks.org/
For every hour you spend doing something for someone in your community, you earn one Time Dollar. Then you have a Time Dollar to spend on having someone do something for you.
To join: visit http://community.timebanks.org, click on Find a Timebank, scroll down to Woodstock Timebank, click Join!
-------------------------------------------------------------
Source: UlsterCorps Website "Volunteer Opportunities": http://ulstercorps.org/?page_id=5: [Bold Print Mine; some minor editing (spellcheck) involved)]
-------------------------------------------------------------
Now, it certainly may be that there are issues involved in all of this that I am not aware of...
So I would certainly like to hear (whether pro or con... or to provide clarifying input...) your knowledge and/or views on the matter...
Peace, Love, Equality and Humane Justice,
NS
In the following write-up, on UlsterCorps and "volunteerism," a lot of organizations were ommitted due to space constraints and/or because my point HERE is to demonstrate (this blog write-up represents MY opinion, yours might differ) that a lot of purported "volunteer opportunities" could and should (?) be PAID POSITIONS - which could help (Do ya think?) our local economic situation (in terms of paid employment / the overall state of the economy) immensely!
Why are some organizations, some of which receive mega-bucks (through grants and such) not putting in budget-line requests to PAY for the number of PAID employees that they need? Do "you" think there is something "wrong" with this picture?
The following represents snippets that I "pulled out" of the overall listing (source noted down below) --- because a lot of these "volunteer" job titles sure sound like JOBS (I would include anything over 10 hours a week maximum, along with anything that requires extensive education, training or special expertise - in this category) to me...
At the end of this list are a couple of organizations seeking volunteers that seem (these two organizations) to have a much more rational [a few hours a week max) - fair - and/or viable (the last one has a reciprocal component) concept of just what volunteerism is (again, my opinion) meant to be...
Check out the following [note the items in bold (my doing)] and tell me what you think:
"AFFORDABLE/TRANSITIONAL HOUSING
FAMILY’s Midway of Kingston & Ellenville...
Volunteers needed for projects including painting all kids’ rooms and offices, gardening/landscaping in the spring, driving kids to laundry services, grocery shopping, job opportunities, medical appointments, etc. tutoring, both college level and high school, any extra curricular activities in the community, like movies, meals, theater, parks, swimming, etc...
Family Inn...
Needs fill-ins for weekends, evenings, and overnights. Possibly a 20-hour part-time overnight position 2 overnights a week...
EDUCATION/ARTS
Ulster Literacy Association Tutor Training Workshop...
The ULA student waiting list has reached 100! This means all these folks are waiting patiently to meet a tutor and get started on building their reading, writing and conversational skills. We really need volunteers and have two new trainings scheduled:
Over 3 Saturdays, 4/18, 4/25, 5/2, 8:30-3:30 on all dates.
Tuesdays & Thursdays May 12, 14, 19, 21, 26, 28, 6:00-9:00PM on all dates...
Workshop train adult volunteers to work in a one-to-one tutoring situation with adults who want to improve their reading and writing skills. There is a fee (You pay a "fee" for the "privilege" of volunteering?) of $20.00 to cover the cost of material and handouts. This is due at the time you sign up for a specific workshop.
Volunteers also needed to cover the front desk, handle the phone, and other office tasks...
UCCAC, Inc. Early Head Start/Head Start is searching for volunteers throughout Ulster County. The Kingston Childrens Learning Center... is especially in need of volunteers for the classroom...
United Way Ulster County - Volunteer Opportunities...
Loaned Executives, Employee Campaign Managers, Community Fund Volunteers
Loaned Executives serve as United Way ambassadors to local businesses. In this capacity they:
Teach employees and employers about United Way programs and services
Assist Employee Campaign Managers to set United Way campaign goals and plan campaign strategy
Coordinate United Way presentations
Distribute United Way materials
Employee Campaign Managers (ECM’s) are volunteers within companies that work closely with Loaned Executives to present information about the United Way to their fellow employees.
Community Fund Volunteers are responsible for reviewing requests for funding, and then making recommendations to the Board of Directors of the United Way of Ulster County...
Center for Creative Education... Kingston Location... Stone Ridge Location...
The mission of the Center for Creative Education is to create a better world by nurturing and empowering youth and community through the arts. The Kingston center offers a dance and percussion studio, homework and tutoring center, and a computer music lab that is being developed in collaboration with the Kingston School District’s Department of Fine Arts and Enrichment. Volunteers needed for office help, clean-up, and event assistance.
Hudson River Maritme Museum...
Year round & seasonal volunteers needed -
Museum Admission and Gift Shop Clerks, Docent, Computer Specialist, Grant Administrator...
EMERGENCY SERVICES
Family of Woodstock - Ways to Volunteer
Volunteer training program for work on 24 Hour Hotline. 3-hour shifts. Days, eves, weekends. Also Food Closet, Holiday programs...
HITS season begins May 20th. Volunteers needed to staff our Spectator gates during our Horse Shows (???). All proceeds from the gate go directly to Family of Woodstock. More info...
Bilingual Volunteers Needed at FAMILY’s ACMS...
Salvador Altamirano-Segura, program director of Family’s Adult Case Management Services (ACMS), has recently asked for volunteers to help enroll Spanish speaking clients in the Food Stamps Program. As a community based organization, we are able to submit client applications electronically from our sites. He is looking for volunteers to help with his Spanish speaking clients... [Wouldn't this be a great part time or full time job for Those with BiLingual (special) Skills?]
Additional Volunteer Opportunities at Family
GREEN ENERGY/SUSTAINABILITY
Sustainable Hudson Valley...
Volunteers needed to help SHV with communications and outreach, research support, office help or fundraising... Database manager — data entry and database setup, Excel knowledge required (approx 3 hours/ week, can do from your location)
Graphic designer — design print and web materials, work closely with highly skilled design director (one project or a stream of them — lots to do)Outreach volunteers — staff SHV information tables with material on all our programs (flexible, lots of evenings & weekends possible)Media monitors — if you are an avid reader of specialized media related to sustainability or the Hudson Valley, let us know and send us relevant clippings to feed our information-hunger
Hudson Valley Materials Exchange...
HVME is in desperate need of volunteers to help us finish our move. Help moving materials, painting inside of storage trailers, outreach and fundraising are needed. our most immediate need is help moving materials and painting.
HEALTH SERVICES...
American Red Cross, Ulster County Chapter - Volunteer Opportunities... Disaster Response Team Member, General Office Support, Health & Safety Volunteer Instructors, Leadership Committee Volunteers, Volunteer Administration Specialist, Volunteer Intake Specialist, Volunteer Recruitment Specialist.
Health Alliance - Benedictine Hospital Volunteer Services...
A range of rewarding volunteer opportunities, including serving patients, staffing the gift shop, assisting visitors at the information desk, and working as clerical and support staff...
Hospice, Inc...
Volunteers needed for office work, delivery of medications, provide respite care, etc...
Health Alliance - Kingston Hospital Volunteer Services...
A range of rewarding volunteer opportunities, including serving patients, staffing the gift shop, assisting visitors at the information desk, and working as clerical and support staff...
New Paltz Rescue Squad...
The Rescue Squad is a volunteer-based, not-for-profit organization that provides our community with professional, pre-hospital emergency care. Volunteers needed as ambulance drivers, EMTs and paramedics...
Ulster-Greene ARC
Volunteers needed to assist developmentally disabled adults with social activities and companionship...
LEGAL SERVICES
Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of Ulster County
Looking for volunteer advocates. Volunteers are assigned by Family Court to advocate for children in foster care. Advocates work with child and family...
----------------------------------------------------------------
Much more equitable - fair and impressive (in terms of the way in which I understand "volunteerism" - in my opinion:
1.
Gardiner Library
Station Sq/Gardiner 255-1255
Volunteers for the following library jobs would be greatly appreciated. The time frames below are suggestions.
Putting plastic covers on new books - One hour monthly
Deleting outdated magazines from system - One hour monthly
Looking through newspapers and clipping articles about the library - One hour monthly
Circulation Desk Help
Workers at the circulation desk are always welcome. We especially need help in the evening hours. You can come every week or once a month. You decide what works for you!
http://www.rcls.org/gar/
2.
Woodstock Time Bank
PO Box 783, Woodstock, NY 12498
845-679-4211, woodstocktimeexchange@hotmail.com
http://www.timebanks.org/
For every hour you spend doing something for someone in your community, you earn one Time Dollar. Then you have a Time Dollar to spend on having someone do something for you.
To join: visit http://community.timebanks.org, click on Find a Timebank, scroll down to Woodstock Timebank, click Join!
-------------------------------------------------------------
Source: UlsterCorps Website "Volunteer Opportunities": http://ulstercorps.org/?page_id=5: [Bold Print Mine; some minor editing (spellcheck) involved)]
-------------------------------------------------------------
Now, it certainly may be that there are issues involved in all of this that I am not aware of...
So I would certainly like to hear (whether pro or con... or to provide clarifying input...) your knowledge and/or views on the matter...
Peace, Love, Equality and Humane Justice,
NS
Friday, April 10, 2009
Save on Property Taxes... You Tube... Cig Gas Sales Etc Taxation Information Links
["Save Big Money on Your Property Taxes: Fight Your Assessment"; as submitted to You Tube by sequenceinc on December 18, 2008; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zxw6GB0gv68]
For Some Wisdom and Direction in These Trying Times, Check Out [These Links Will Be Placed in the Sidebar]:
"The best and worst states for taxes - MSN Money": http://articles.moneycentral.msn.com/Taxes/Advice/TheBestAndWorstStatesForTaxes.aspx
"The best and worst state for gas, cigarettes, beer and sales taxes - MSN Money": http://articles.moneycentral.msn.com/Taxes/best-and-worst-taxes-by-state.aspx
Peace, Love, Equality and Humane Justice,
For Some Wisdom and Direction in These Trying Times, Check Out [These Links Will Be Placed in the Sidebar]:
"The best and worst states for taxes - MSN Money": http://articles.moneycentral.msn.com/Taxes/Advice/TheBestAndWorstStatesForTaxes.aspx
"The best and worst state for gas, cigarettes, beer and sales taxes - MSN Money": http://articles.moneycentral.msn.com/Taxes/best-and-worst-taxes-by-state.aspx
Peace, Love, Equality and Humane Justice,
Thursday, April 9, 2009
The Penguins Of Madagascar... Funny... You Tube
["The Penguins Of Madagascar - Funny parts"; as submitted to You Tube by adonis1936 on 2/16/09; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q4Pf5OjC9ls]
Monday, April 6, 2009
Nancy Schaefer on CPS... You Tube...Onsite conflict... Alamo... A Nasty business... Billy Joel Music Video... You May Be Right... I May Be Crazy
["Nancy Schaefer on CPS"; as submitted to You Tube by Amiablyme on March 13, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K1HjVU-UIQU]
Bringing an ongoing discussion / conflict (from below) into the light [Nancy Schaefer, above, does appear (ouch!) to make some very good points... This appears to be a VERY complex issue!]:
1. Anonymous said... "For up to date information about alamo please go to:
http://www.tonyalamonews.com" (April 5, 2009 6:13 AM)
2. Anonymous said... "Thank you for your interest in tony alamo. It is important to get the truth about him out to the world. Too many people have destroyed their lives and their children's lives because they could not see the truth behind the falsehoods he used to control them. Please see all the latest about him and his court case which will start in May, by going to this website of accurate information.
http://www.tonyalamonews.com" (April 5, 2009 6:31 AM)
3. N.S. said... "Anonymous, Thank you for the response and link. I will check it out in a little while :)"(April 5, 2009 9:32 AM)
4. N.S. said... "Anon, Definitely a comprehensive link! Thank you again... If anyone wants to follow this issue further please go (for now) to (I will put this in the sidebar)... http://www.tonyalamonews.com" (April 5, 2009 10:56 AM)
5. Anonymous said... "If you want the truth about Tony Alamo and the fact that CPS has stolen innocent children from their parents and what this is REALLY about go and research... www.alamoministries.com
www.inquisitionupdate.org
www.spiritaullysmart.com
www.arcticbeacon.com
read the sites and watch the videos." (April 5, 2009 8:52 PM)
6. N.S. said... "Anon 8:52PM...Because everyone is entitled their opinion and "freedom of speech" I have respectfully (despite having formed some fairly solid opinions on this matter, which may well dif fer from your own) put your post and suggested links here... In all cases, however, readers are advised to follow other reader's links at their own discretion --- as I do not have the time nor inclination to check out all of them" (April 5, 2009 10:47 PM)
7. Anonymous said... "Factnet = CIA Operation... information on this is on this link... http://www.spirituallysmart.com/factnet.html" (April 6, 2009 8:44 AM)
8. Anonymous said... "PACA and tonyalamonews is run by the same people involved in factnet. They have just taken on a new name... http://www.spirituallysmart.com/cults.html
there is far more to this and without serious research on how our Vatican govt. operates, you will be deceived by these people and groups who are bribed, threatened and coerced into helping to destroy bible believing Christians and Pastors.
www.inquisitionupdate.org
6 interviews all say there was NO abuse!" (April 6, 2009 8:48 AM)
9. N.S. said... "Actually (this is my opinion / your choices are your own) I would prefer that folks pay the "most" attention to CNN, MSNBC, etc. news coverage and/or to other professional investigator / reporter (Associated Press, etc) coverage of the Alamo case (s) - AND in regard to the other cases (responses have developed a singular focus here) noted... Why? Because photos and videos (complete with police raids and arrests depicted, etc) "do" speak "1,000 words" --- and any other site / orgainization "might" (I am not saying "does") have its own (for good or ill) agenda... I would have to "loosely" include FactNet in this latter category (at least until I explore the issue more; and this, only if I find the time...) --- since some such groups [i.e., The Cult Awareness Network?] "have" been known to change alliances [or to become infiltrated by (speaking in general terms here) "cult" members (not a good thing) and/or investigators (not a bad thing) of one type or another] over the course of time. It does behoove me to point out (in FactNet's favor?) that it is apparently (at least in some cases) a few folks associated "with" FactNet that have "supplied" some of the official news (CNN, etc.) coverage videos of the Alamo case (s) "to" You Tube" (April 6, 2009 10:08 AM)
10. Anonymous said... "It's a shame that people in this world are so blinded by the lies, slander and propaganda of the now vatican controlled news media. If you want to remain in a fantasy world of lies. Just turn on the Brain washing machine TV and believe that this is God talking to you. Very sad! Wake up America! You are being deceived!!! The whole world wandered after the beast (One World Government) Read the bible. repent and be saved it's only going to get a whole lot worse!" (April 6, 2009 10:42 AM)
11. Anonymous said... "Here's some you tube videos. Some of the few they haven't taken down to prove that there is NO abuse at the Alamo videos...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xIL8OqNDg2A
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3NTLqAvIUFg
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=08prxPPyGqs
Children being legally kidnapped at machine gun point and stolen away from their loving, caring parents. Truly sad and discusting! how would you or others feel if this happened to you? What a horrible thing to do to children! This IS ABUSE! PProof these children were not abused! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pGaF4GHlefc ... The ATROCITIES of CPS/DHS KIDNAPPING BY FORMER SENATOR NANCY SHCAFFER>
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K1HjVU-UIQU ... full videos of ALL 6 girls stolen from Alamo Ministries can be seen on www.inquisitionupdate.org ... This is what they don't want you to see!!! Because they are crooks and child stealers and this is happening all over the world. It's all about MONEY and destroying anyone who exposes the Vatican" (April 6, 2009 11:02 AM)
12. tony58 said... "The reason "they" are destroy Tony Alamo's Christian Ministry is because he is preaching the TRUTH about the anti-Christ!!!! The anti-Christ is the Vatican and the Pope's seat. The False Prophet is the "Priests" and "Preachers" and Satan gives them their power. And the Jesuits are his army!!!! LET THE CHRISTIAN PASTOR OUT OF JAIL!!!! and GIVE THE CHILDREN BACK TO THE PARENTS THAT LOVE THE AND ARE TRYING TO BRING THEM UP REAL CHRISTIANS!!!!! WAKE UP AMERICA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!" (April 6, 2009 11:37 AM)
13. N.S. said... "Okedokee... I will (when I get a chance) check into some of the sites and videos that you are suggesting. But I will not allow any more forceful [skip the caps (internet shouting)], "condemning" (for lack of a better word) and/or unsubstantiated [re the Vatican, associated Media reports around this issue, etc.] allegations --- or other posts that I deem borderline to outright abusive [I do not appreciate rudeness here] in tone... Did you take the time to listen to "Let it Be?" Or to watch the great musicals posted up above? Either / or might (?) help you to calm down and get centered... Let's all keep this even toned and rational, okay? Thank You" (April 6, 2009 12:17 PM)
14. Anonymous said... "i don't even call them reporters! 22 Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools, THERE, even The Word of God tells us that!!!!!!!" (April 6, 2009 1:16 PM)
15. tony58 said... "N.S. ... Take time to read your Bible! Forget about the beatles!!! And, it's hard to be "toned and rational" when Children are suffering!!!!" (April 6, 2009 1:46 PM)
16. N.S. said... "tony58, Is there a list anywhere in regard to how much food, medicine or money Mr. Alamo has donated to hungry children, food pantries, homeless shelters, battered women's shelters, etc.? As I noted in an earlier post, Mr. Alamo's tax exempt status was not pulled (This was years ago and it might have been reinstated since...) until his "church holdings" had ACRUED [What does your personal savings account and /or list of assets look like?] around $50 MILLION [my turn] DOLLARS... which would sure relieve some of the suffering that was (then) and is (now) being experienced by the world's children... wouldn't it?" (April 6, 2009 2:01 PM)
17. tony58 said... "Jesus said; 6 ¶ Give not that which is holy unto the dogs, neither cast ye your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn again and rend you... 16 And he would fain have filled his belly with the husks that the swine did eat: and no man gave unto him" (April 6, 2009 2:18 PM)
18. Anonymous said... "I would like to see the videos of them stealing the children on here. You seem to have posted all the garbage lies available against Pastor Alamo. First it's child porn..oops! found none! then it's child abuse. All 6 girls stolen at gun point said no in those videos. How about the confesion interview with the former FBI Agent that was hired to assassinate Pastor Alamo? Please put up the videos of the kids being stolen right on the side of the road..hear them screaming for their mommies and daddy's.? If this doesn't break your heart then nothing will. How about the parents who are inn jail now because they won't turn over their other kids to the Nazi DHS? would you? there is also a letter from one of the mothers who's child is being abused in foster care. Where is that? Please don't further the government abuse on these parents and children and Pastor by putting up one sided garbage from the lying news media. They are told what to print and speak. News flash the major media IS controlled and most of it is garbage! lies and slander to deceive the zombies with who believe the lies. The truth is not allowed out to the media. But you are right take a look at the kids on the videos and these parents. And at least put up their videos!" (April 6, 2009 3:19 PM)
I am now posting (collectively) the following links [Copy & Paste into your address bar].
Please take time to watch all of the videos - if you are so inclined - and please respond (if so inclined) in respectful non-threatening tones.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qzarTSs_OO8
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CKV3ABhXWuw
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mEZpBIYqpEw
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VP_H9HvlMr4
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mtnwLQARexk
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Uk7lB98KZc
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IMUrNdVsc7M
http://www.tonyalamonews.com
www.alamoministries.com
www.inquisitionupdate.org
www.spiritaullysmart.com
www.arcticbeacon.com
http://www.spirituallysmart.com/factnet.html
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xIL8OqNDg2A
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3NTLqAvIUFg
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=08prxPPyGqs
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pGaF4GHlefc
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K1HjVU-UIQU
http://www.factnet.org
["Billy Joel-You May Be Right"; as submitted to You Tube by GlensterMusicKarafun on April 17, 2008; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TA4_Or0IpBs]
Be well.
NS
Bringing an ongoing discussion / conflict (from below) into the light [Nancy Schaefer, above, does appear (ouch!) to make some very good points... This appears to be a VERY complex issue!]:
1. Anonymous said... "For up to date information about alamo please go to:
http://www.tonyalamonews.com" (April 5, 2009 6:13 AM)
2. Anonymous said... "Thank you for your interest in tony alamo. It is important to get the truth about him out to the world. Too many people have destroyed their lives and their children's lives because they could not see the truth behind the falsehoods he used to control them. Please see all the latest about him and his court case which will start in May, by going to this website of accurate information.
http://www.tonyalamonews.com" (April 5, 2009 6:31 AM)
3. N.S. said... "Anonymous, Thank you for the response and link. I will check it out in a little while :)"(April 5, 2009 9:32 AM)
4. N.S. said... "Anon, Definitely a comprehensive link! Thank you again... If anyone wants to follow this issue further please go (for now) to (I will put this in the sidebar)... http://www.tonyalamonews.com" (April 5, 2009 10:56 AM)
5. Anonymous said... "If you want the truth about Tony Alamo and the fact that CPS has stolen innocent children from their parents and what this is REALLY about go and research... www.alamoministries.com
www.inquisitionupdate.org
www.spiritaullysmart.com
www.arcticbeacon.com
read the sites and watch the videos." (April 5, 2009 8:52 PM)
6. N.S. said... "Anon 8:52PM...Because everyone is entitled their opinion and "freedom of speech" I have respectfully (despite having formed some fairly solid opinions on this matter, which may well dif fer from your own) put your post and suggested links here... In all cases, however, readers are advised to follow other reader's links at their own discretion --- as I do not have the time nor inclination to check out all of them" (April 5, 2009 10:47 PM)
7. Anonymous said... "Factnet = CIA Operation... information on this is on this link... http://www.spirituallysmart.com/factnet.html" (April 6, 2009 8:44 AM)
8. Anonymous said... "PACA and tonyalamonews is run by the same people involved in factnet. They have just taken on a new name... http://www.spirituallysmart.com/cults.html
there is far more to this and without serious research on how our Vatican govt. operates, you will be deceived by these people and groups who are bribed, threatened and coerced into helping to destroy bible believing Christians and Pastors.
www.inquisitionupdate.org
6 interviews all say there was NO abuse!" (April 6, 2009 8:48 AM)
9. N.S. said... "Actually (this is my opinion / your choices are your own) I would prefer that folks pay the "most" attention to CNN, MSNBC, etc. news coverage and/or to other professional investigator / reporter (Associated Press, etc) coverage of the Alamo case (s) - AND in regard to the other cases (responses have developed a singular focus here) noted... Why? Because photos and videos (complete with police raids and arrests depicted, etc) "do" speak "1,000 words" --- and any other site / orgainization "might" (I am not saying "does") have its own (for good or ill) agenda... I would have to "loosely" include FactNet in this latter category (at least until I explore the issue more; and this, only if I find the time...) --- since some such groups [i.e., The Cult Awareness Network?] "have" been known to change alliances [or to become infiltrated by (speaking in general terms here) "cult" members (not a good thing) and/or investigators (not a bad thing) of one type or another] over the course of time. It does behoove me to point out (in FactNet's favor?) that it is apparently (at least in some cases) a few folks associated "with" FactNet that have "supplied" some of the official news (CNN, etc.) coverage videos of the Alamo case (s) "to" You Tube" (April 6, 2009 10:08 AM)
10. Anonymous said... "It's a shame that people in this world are so blinded by the lies, slander and propaganda of the now vatican controlled news media. If you want to remain in a fantasy world of lies. Just turn on the Brain washing machine TV and believe that this is God talking to you. Very sad! Wake up America! You are being deceived!!! The whole world wandered after the beast (One World Government) Read the bible. repent and be saved it's only going to get a whole lot worse!" (April 6, 2009 10:42 AM)
11. Anonymous said... "Here's some you tube videos. Some of the few they haven't taken down to prove that there is NO abuse at the Alamo videos...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xIL8OqNDg2A
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3NTLqAvIUFg
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=08prxPPyGqs
Children being legally kidnapped at machine gun point and stolen away from their loving, caring parents. Truly sad and discusting! how would you or others feel if this happened to you? What a horrible thing to do to children! This IS ABUSE! PProof these children were not abused! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pGaF4GHlefc ... The ATROCITIES of CPS/DHS KIDNAPPING BY FORMER SENATOR NANCY SHCAFFER>
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K1HjVU-UIQU ... full videos of ALL 6 girls stolen from Alamo Ministries can be seen on www.inquisitionupdate.org ... This is what they don't want you to see!!! Because they are crooks and child stealers and this is happening all over the world. It's all about MONEY and destroying anyone who exposes the Vatican" (April 6, 2009 11:02 AM)
12. tony58 said... "The reason "they" are destroy Tony Alamo's Christian Ministry is because he is preaching the TRUTH about the anti-Christ!!!! The anti-Christ is the Vatican and the Pope's seat. The False Prophet is the "Priests" and "Preachers" and Satan gives them their power. And the Jesuits are his army!!!! LET THE CHRISTIAN PASTOR OUT OF JAIL!!!! and GIVE THE CHILDREN BACK TO THE PARENTS THAT LOVE THE AND ARE TRYING TO BRING THEM UP REAL CHRISTIANS!!!!! WAKE UP AMERICA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!" (April 6, 2009 11:37 AM)
13. N.S. said... "Okedokee... I will (when I get a chance) check into some of the sites and videos that you are suggesting. But I will not allow any more forceful [skip the caps (internet shouting)], "condemning" (for lack of a better word) and/or unsubstantiated [re the Vatican, associated Media reports around this issue, etc.] allegations --- or other posts that I deem borderline to outright abusive [I do not appreciate rudeness here] in tone... Did you take the time to listen to "Let it Be?" Or to watch the great musicals posted up above? Either / or might (?) help you to calm down and get centered... Let's all keep this even toned and rational, okay? Thank You" (April 6, 2009 12:17 PM)
14. Anonymous said... "i don't even call them reporters! 22 Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools, THERE, even The Word of God tells us that!!!!!!!" (April 6, 2009 1:16 PM)
15. tony58 said... "N.S. ... Take time to read your Bible! Forget about the beatles!!! And, it's hard to be "toned and rational" when Children are suffering!!!!" (April 6, 2009 1:46 PM)
16. N.S. said... "tony58, Is there a list anywhere in regard to how much food, medicine or money Mr. Alamo has donated to hungry children, food pantries, homeless shelters, battered women's shelters, etc.? As I noted in an earlier post, Mr. Alamo's tax exempt status was not pulled (This was years ago and it might have been reinstated since...) until his "church holdings" had ACRUED [What does your personal savings account and /or list of assets look like?] around $50 MILLION [my turn] DOLLARS... which would sure relieve some of the suffering that was (then) and is (now) being experienced by the world's children... wouldn't it?" (April 6, 2009 2:01 PM)
17. tony58 said... "Jesus said; 6 ¶ Give not that which is holy unto the dogs, neither cast ye your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn again and rend you... 16 And he would fain have filled his belly with the husks that the swine did eat: and no man gave unto him" (April 6, 2009 2:18 PM)
18. Anonymous said... "I would like to see the videos of them stealing the children on here. You seem to have posted all the garbage lies available against Pastor Alamo. First it's child porn..oops! found none! then it's child abuse. All 6 girls stolen at gun point said no in those videos. How about the confesion interview with the former FBI Agent that was hired to assassinate Pastor Alamo? Please put up the videos of the kids being stolen right on the side of the road..hear them screaming for their mommies and daddy's.? If this doesn't break your heart then nothing will. How about the parents who are inn jail now because they won't turn over their other kids to the Nazi DHS? would you? there is also a letter from one of the mothers who's child is being abused in foster care. Where is that? Please don't further the government abuse on these parents and children and Pastor by putting up one sided garbage from the lying news media. They are told what to print and speak. News flash the major media IS controlled and most of it is garbage! lies and slander to deceive the zombies with who believe the lies. The truth is not allowed out to the media. But you are right take a look at the kids on the videos and these parents. And at least put up their videos!" (April 6, 2009 3:19 PM)
I am now posting (collectively) the following links [Copy & Paste into your address bar].
Please take time to watch all of the videos - if you are so inclined - and please respond (if so inclined) in respectful non-threatening tones.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qzarTSs_OO8
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CKV3ABhXWuw
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mEZpBIYqpEw
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VP_H9HvlMr4
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mtnwLQARexk
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Uk7lB98KZc
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IMUrNdVsc7M
http://www.tonyalamonews.com
www.alamoministries.com
www.inquisitionupdate.org
www.spiritaullysmart.com
www.arcticbeacon.com
http://www.spirituallysmart.com/factnet.html
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xIL8OqNDg2A
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3NTLqAvIUFg
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=08prxPPyGqs
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pGaF4GHlefc
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K1HjVU-UIQU
http://www.factnet.org
["Billy Joel-You May Be Right"; as submitted to You Tube by GlensterMusicKarafun on April 17, 2008; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TA4_Or0IpBs]
Be well.
NS
America... Let's Get Started Again... You Tube Music Video
As Posted (with Video below) on You Tube site:
"A song by Rita Abrams set to video footage of Obama's inaugural address, images of contemporary America and archival footage, creating a portrait of the problems we face and the hopes we have...
["America, Let's Get Started Again"; as posted by MissAbrams on March 10, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l11ZLzIck_8]
Peace, Love, Equality and Humane Justice,
NS
"A song by Rita Abrams set to video footage of Obama's inaugural address, images of contemporary America and archival footage, creating a portrait of the problems we face and the hopes we have...
["America, Let's Get Started Again"; as posted by MissAbrams on March 10, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l11ZLzIck_8]
Peace, Love, Equality and Humane Justice,
NS
Sunday, April 5, 2009
Dream On... Aerosmith... You Tube Music Video
["Aerosmith - Dream On Lyrics"; as submitted to You Tube by Dragonforce742 on 7/11/08; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jKuchOdtcFs]
Dream on...
And have a wonderful new day!
NS
Dream on...
And have a wonderful new day!
NS
Destry Rides Again... It Ain't Necessarily So... Fiddler on the Roof... You Tube
Some Classic (and pretty awesome) Stuff Here!
["Destry Rides Again Bar Scene"; as submitted to You Tube by DualAdaptor on July 04, 2008; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=By48VYXP16s]
["PORGY & BESS - It Ain't Necessarily So"; as submitted to You Tube by mafarka49 on November 07,
2006; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pLLoNi4qHPg]
["To Life (Fiddler on the Roof)"; as submitted to You Tube by Jman383 on January 09, 2007; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q7VnmgPoZEg]
NS
["Destry Rides Again Bar Scene"; as submitted to You Tube by DualAdaptor on July 04, 2008; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=By48VYXP16s]
["PORGY & BESS - It Ain't Necessarily So"; as submitted to You Tube by mafarka49 on November 07,
2006; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pLLoNi4qHPg]
["To Life (Fiddler on the Roof)"; as submitted to You Tube by Jman383 on January 09, 2007; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q7VnmgPoZEg]
NS
Its a New Day... Let it Be... The Beatles... You Tube Music Video
["The Beatles - Let it be Lyrics"; as submitted to You Tube by rubyhartlove on August 29, 2008; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YRCPQFVWrRE]
I love this song!
NS
I love this song!
NS
Following Up the Follow-Up... Alamo Christian Ministries
[Photo by BF]Following Up the Follow-Up... Alamo Christian Ministries
On reviewing the videos below (utilize your own discretion in viewing these):
1. I can't help but notice the radically different ways that Tony Alamo is depicted (I'm not sure what this is about, or if it means anything at all.) in some photographs...
2. I want to apologize for the google ads that slipped through on one of the videos... including an ad regarding contacting (or some such thing) "hot girls" --- but state that I chose NOT to (because of these ads) remove this video [Please ignore the ads or do whatever at your own risk!] --- because this type of ad (relatively common elsewhere on the net and on television nowadays, as well) shows the slippery slope (in my opinion) that our entire society seems determined to ski (despite all of the possible costs and consequences) down...
3. I have to note the distinct irony / injustice (as perceived on my part) associated with one of the scenarios depicted in the videos below - where it becomes apparent that - despite the allegations and arrests (with the outcomes "of same" seemingly very hard to access) that have come forth regarding Tony Alamo (a victim o persecution or a con man extraordinaire?) over the years --- Tony Alamo has apparently been able to maintain his status as a minister... - WHILST some of the parents (This makes NO sense to me whether Alamo is innocent or guilty!] that are trying to get their children back from protective custody (for lack of a better term) have apparently been told that THEY (the children's parents) must break "all ties" with Alamo Christian Ministries (HUH?) before their [Isn't there something very wrong with this picture if Alamo is allowed to continue "preaching" to these same children?????] custody is (other factors might apply, as well) reinstated.
4. I can't help but note the comments made in one of the videos about the possible consequences Tony Alamo "might" face if he were to be found guilty of some (or all?) of the allegations...
An "ankle bracelet?"
5. I feel the need to state that the videos of official news station coverage events are "what they are" [which would certainly appear TO BE legitimate] - but that videos of a more personal nature - as supplied by individuals and/or organizations - can't be (by me) verified [although heart-wrenching and certainly worth paying attention to "just in case..." (we are talking potential missing children here!)] as to their authenticity.
6. All of this is being written - right now - based on the memory of watching these videos - which I have no intention (unless I have to do so for some reason) of watching again. Thus, if any errors have been made (please utilize your own thought and reasoning skills - don't depend on mine) - I apologize.
7. I repeat - if anyone "out there" does know the outcome (if it is even available) of the latest case (s?) - please let me / us (I'm including my readers here) know.
Thank You,
NS
Saturday, April 4, 2009
Alamo Christian Ministries Follow Up... Anyone Know the Ultimate Outcome... You Tube Videos... References
To my knowlege Tony Alamos Christian Ministry is not active in this area. However, since a previous video-post on this subject raised some contention and questions, I have done a little more research on the matter...
["FOX Interview With Tony Alamo"; as submitted by factnetmember on September 25, 2008; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qzarTSs_OO8]
["Evangelist Tony Alamo Agrees to Return to Ark."; as submitted to You Tube by AssociatedPress on
September 27, 2008; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CKV3ABhXWuw]
["KARK - More Alamo Properties Raided Tuesday; 20 Children Removed"; as submitted to You Tube by factnetmember on November 22, 2008; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mEZpBIYqpEw]
["KTAL - Alamo To Appear In Texarkanas Federal Court Friday"; as submitted to You Tube by factnetmember
on November 22, 2008; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VP_H9HvlMr4]
["KTAL - Alamo in Court Today"; as submitted by factnetmember on November 24, 2008; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mtnwLQARexk]
["MY MISSING CHILDREN(MORE DETAILED)"; as submitted to You Tube by pixypixy1987 on March 08, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Uk7lB98KZc]
For more information, please copy and past the following into the address bar:
1. "Tony Alamo - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia": http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tony_Alamo
2. "Tony Alamo": http://www.rickross.com/groups/alamo.html
And if anyone has access to any updated information on the case or cases - please do let me / us know!
Thank You,
NS
["FOX Interview With Tony Alamo"; as submitted by factnetmember on September 25, 2008; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qzarTSs_OO8]
["Evangelist Tony Alamo Agrees to Return to Ark."; as submitted to You Tube by AssociatedPress on
September 27, 2008; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CKV3ABhXWuw]
["KARK - More Alamo Properties Raided Tuesday; 20 Children Removed"; as submitted to You Tube by factnetmember on November 22, 2008; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mEZpBIYqpEw]
["KTAL - Alamo To Appear In Texarkanas Federal Court Friday"; as submitted to You Tube by factnetmember
on November 22, 2008; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VP_H9HvlMr4]
["KTAL - Alamo in Court Today"; as submitted by factnetmember on November 24, 2008; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mtnwLQARexk]
["MY MISSING CHILDREN(MORE DETAILED)"; as submitted to You Tube by pixypixy1987 on March 08, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Uk7lB98KZc]
For more information, please copy and past the following into the address bar:
1. "Tony Alamo - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia": http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tony_Alamo
2. "Tony Alamo": http://www.rickross.com/groups/alamo.html
And if anyone has access to any updated information on the case or cases - please do let me / us know!
Thank You,
NS
Friday, April 3, 2009
Passing on a Beautiful Music Video and Some Spring Gardening Tips from MSN.com Lifestyle and Martha Stewart.com
Posted on You Tube with the following video:
"The Celtic tune 'She Bheag She Mor' on hammered dulcimer accompanies this video of spring flowers in the North Carolina mountains...
["Spring Flowers: Music by Donna Germano"; as submitted to You Tube by dmgermano1 on April 05, 2007; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d5NDb5-SzUY]
From "MSN Lifestyle with Martha Stewart.com":
"Spring Gardening Tips... Follow the 10 tips outlined below for a welcoming garden that's filled with color and fragrance -- and song...
Survey the Yard...
Make note of tree limbs that should be removed or cabled, especially those that overhang structures. Hire an arborist to maintain large trees. Cut down last year's perennial foliage, and toss it into the compost pile. Rake mulch from beds planted with bulbs before foliage appears, and refresh mulch in other planting areas after soil warms. Check fences, steps, and pathways for disrepair caused by freezing and thawing.
Order Tools and Plants...
Tune up tools so everything is ready when things start growing. Make note of what is missing, and order tools for the new growing season. Choose new plants for the garden. Order perennials, trees, and shrubs for spring planting.
Get Ready to Mow...
Send the mower and leaf blower for servicing, or if you have the right tools, sharpen the mower blades yourself. Refill your mower with oil, install fresh spark plugs, and lubricate moving parts if necessary. Clear the lawn of winter debris, and look for areas that need reseeding before mowing.
Prune Trees and Shrubs...
Remove dead, damaged, and diseased branches from woody plants. Thin and trim summer-blooming shrubs such as butterfly bush, hydrangea, and most roses, except for old-fashioned once bloomers. Prune cold-damaged wood after plants resume spring growth. Prune spring-blooming shrubs and trees after flowering.
Take a Soil Test...
Check soil pH with a home soil- test kit, taking several samples from different planting areas for an accurate reading. Enrich soil as necessary: Add dolomitic lime to raise the pH or elemental sulfur to lower the pH.
Prepare New Beds...
Clear the planting area as soon as soil can be worked, removing sod or weeds and debris. Spread a 4-inch layer of compost or well-rotted manure and any amendments over soil, and cultivate it to a depth of 10 to 12 inches with a spading fork.
Plant...
Plant bare-root trees, shrubs, and perennials such as hostas and daylilies by early spring. Choose a cool, cloudy day if possible. Transplant container-grown plants anytime during the growing season except midsummer; be sure to water them thoroughly. Sow seeds of cool-season flowers like sweet peas, poppies, and calendula, and vegetables such as lettuce, parsley, and spinach.
Fertilize...
Apply balanced fertilizer (6-6-6 or 8-8-8), fish emulsion, or other soil amendments recommended by soil-test results around trees and shrubs when new growth appears. Spread high-acid fertilizer and pine-needle mulch around acid-loving shrubs like azaleas and camellias. Begin fertilizing perennials when active growth resumes.
Start a Compost Pile...
Start a compost pile, or use a compost bin, if you don't have one already. Begin by collecting plant debris and leaves raked up from the garden. Chop these up first to speed decomposition. Add equal amounts "brown" (carbon-rich) materials like dried leaves and straw and "green" (nitrogen-rich) materials like grass clippings and weeds in even layers with water and a compost bioactivator. Turn regularly. Continue adding to the pile throughout the season for rich, homemade compost next spring.
Clean Bird Feeders and Baths...
Disinfect the feeders by scrubbing with weak bleach solution (1/4 cup bleach: 2 gallons warm water). Rinse and dry the feeders thoroughly before refilling them.Scrub birdbaths with bleach solution, then rinse them thoroughly and refill, changing water weekly. Clean birdbaths and feeders regularly throughout the season.
http://lifestyle.msn.com/your-home/martha-stewart/article.aspx?cp-documentid=18460415>1=32001#atoolb
Options made available on site: "Print... E-mail... Blog... Digg... Facebook... Newsvine"
"The Celtic tune 'She Bheag She Mor' on hammered dulcimer accompanies this video of spring flowers in the North Carolina mountains...
["Spring Flowers: Music by Donna Germano"; as submitted to You Tube by dmgermano1 on April 05, 2007; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d5NDb5-SzUY]
From "MSN Lifestyle with Martha Stewart.com":
"Spring Gardening Tips... Follow the 10 tips outlined below for a welcoming garden that's filled with color and fragrance -- and song...
Survey the Yard...
Make note of tree limbs that should be removed or cabled, especially those that overhang structures. Hire an arborist to maintain large trees. Cut down last year's perennial foliage, and toss it into the compost pile. Rake mulch from beds planted with bulbs before foliage appears, and refresh mulch in other planting areas after soil warms. Check fences, steps, and pathways for disrepair caused by freezing and thawing.
Order Tools and Plants...
Tune up tools so everything is ready when things start growing. Make note of what is missing, and order tools for the new growing season. Choose new plants for the garden. Order perennials, trees, and shrubs for spring planting.
Get Ready to Mow...
Send the mower and leaf blower for servicing, or if you have the right tools, sharpen the mower blades yourself. Refill your mower with oil, install fresh spark plugs, and lubricate moving parts if necessary. Clear the lawn of winter debris, and look for areas that need reseeding before mowing.
Prune Trees and Shrubs...
Remove dead, damaged, and diseased branches from woody plants. Thin and trim summer-blooming shrubs such as butterfly bush, hydrangea, and most roses, except for old-fashioned once bloomers. Prune cold-damaged wood after plants resume spring growth. Prune spring-blooming shrubs and trees after flowering.
Take a Soil Test...
Check soil pH with a home soil- test kit, taking several samples from different planting areas for an accurate reading. Enrich soil as necessary: Add dolomitic lime to raise the pH or elemental sulfur to lower the pH.
Prepare New Beds...
Clear the planting area as soon as soil can be worked, removing sod or weeds and debris. Spread a 4-inch layer of compost or well-rotted manure and any amendments over soil, and cultivate it to a depth of 10 to 12 inches with a spading fork.
Plant...
Plant bare-root trees, shrubs, and perennials such as hostas and daylilies by early spring. Choose a cool, cloudy day if possible. Transplant container-grown plants anytime during the growing season except midsummer; be sure to water them thoroughly. Sow seeds of cool-season flowers like sweet peas, poppies, and calendula, and vegetables such as lettuce, parsley, and spinach.
Fertilize...
Apply balanced fertilizer (6-6-6 or 8-8-8), fish emulsion, or other soil amendments recommended by soil-test results around trees and shrubs when new growth appears. Spread high-acid fertilizer and pine-needle mulch around acid-loving shrubs like azaleas and camellias. Begin fertilizing perennials when active growth resumes.
Start a Compost Pile...
Start a compost pile, or use a compost bin, if you don't have one already. Begin by collecting plant debris and leaves raked up from the garden. Chop these up first to speed decomposition. Add equal amounts "brown" (carbon-rich) materials like dried leaves and straw and "green" (nitrogen-rich) materials like grass clippings and weeds in even layers with water and a compost bioactivator. Turn regularly. Continue adding to the pile throughout the season for rich, homemade compost next spring.
Clean Bird Feeders and Baths...
Disinfect the feeders by scrubbing with weak bleach solution (1/4 cup bleach: 2 gallons warm water). Rinse and dry the feeders thoroughly before refilling them.Scrub birdbaths with bleach solution, then rinse them thoroughly and refill, changing water weekly. Clean birdbaths and feeders regularly throughout the season.
http://lifestyle.msn.com/your-home/martha-stewart/article.aspx?cp-documentid=18460415>1=32001#atoolb
Options made available on site: "Print... E-mail... Blog... Digg... Facebook... Newsvine"
Raising Awareness... Alamo Ministries... Recent New York News Reports... Connecting the Dots... PROTECT OUR CHILDREN...
"Tony Alamo's HQ Raided in Child Porn Case"
"As stated by You Tube Video Contributor: "Federal authorities conducting a child-porn investigation raided the headquarters Saturday of a ministry run by a convicted tax evader once labeled by prosecutors as a polygamist who preys on girls..."
["Tony Alamo's HQ Raided in Child Porn Case"; as contributed to You Tube by factnetmember on 9/21/08; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IMUrNdVsc7M]
Two New York State Stories (in TWO Days) That Caught My Eye:
1) "Marist prof guilty of child porn"
"POUGHKEEPSIE — A Marist College professor was found guilty Tuesday of more than 130 felonies relating to his possession of child pornography on his office computer.
James Kent, a Kingston resident, was convicted of two counts of felony promoting a sexual performance by a child and 134 counts of felony possessing a sexual performance by a child. Rockland County Court Judge Victor Alfieri announced his verdict following a 2... week non-jury trial in Dutchess County Court, Dutchess County Senior Assistant District Attorney Marjorie Smith said Wednesday. She said Kent is scheduled to be sentenced May 26 and faces 2 1/3 to seven years in state prison on the felony promoting charges and 1 1/3 to four years in prison on the felony possession charges.
Smith said Kent was acquitted of seven counts of felony possession of a sexual performance by a child.
On April 5, 2007, Kent asked information technology staff at the college to check his computer because it kept constantly rebooting, Smith said. She said the staff discovered the computer kept getting “hung up” on some pictures, which were discovered to be of semi-clad children in suggestive poses. Smith said the staff then took the computer’s hard drive and did an internal review, which ultimately led to the Poughkeepsie town police being called.
A police investigation of the computer led to the discovery of thousands of images of child pornography, Smith said. She said most of the images depicted young girls, though there were some images of young boys engaged in bestiality.
Smith said the images were of “extraordinarily graphic depictions of children being abused” by adults and other children. She added that police also seized three floppy disks of images from Kent’s home, though those images were disturbing but not pornographic in nature. Smith said some of the children in the images on the disks were the same as shown on the office computer.
Kent, a professor of public administration at Marist, was arrested in September 2007. He had been on leave since that time.
Published: Thursday, April 2, 2009
http://www.dailyfreeman.com/articles/2009/04/02/news/doc49d42ce8f35f7439330942.txt
Options on site include "print... email to a friend... share this..."
Bold emphasis MINE.
--------------------------------------------------------
2. "Field hockey coach gets 40 years for child porn"
"A former upstate New York field hockey coach will spend 40 years in federal prison for producing child pornography involving the young girls he coached.
Todd Broxmeyer of Lisle (LYE'-uhl) was found guilty in September on two counts of producing child pornography and one count each of attempted child pornography production, possession of child pornography, and transporting a minor across state lines to engage in a sexual act.
He still faces sex charges in state court.
Authorities said the 38-year-old Broxmeyer had sexual contact with three female victims, all younger than 17, between November and December 2007.
He coached girls in field hockey in private leagues and clinics in Broome County, Pennsylvania and New Jersey."
"Times Leader" / "Associated Press": Friday, April 3, 2009 6:42 am
http://www.timesleader.com/news/ap?articleID=1943312
Site Options include: "Save This Story... E-mail This Story... Print This Story.."
Information from: "The Binghamton Press" and the "Sun-Bulletin" --- http://www.pressconnects.com
Bold Emphasis MINE
----------------------------------------------------------
I once stated (although not with these words or this particular emphasis) that possession of child pornography is POSSESSION OF EVIDENCE OF A SERIOUS SERIOUS CRIME AGAINST HUMANITY.
And I would certainly think that folks in possession of such materials MUST either PRODUCE these materials and/or be ASSOCIATED (whether through direct links or a series of linkages...) to the folks that DO PRODUCE (oversee and/or participate in the sexual abuse, rape, and other forms of horrendous - sadistic - abuse of children!) these MATERIALS.
Thus, if cases such as this are not currently being investigated and prosecuted TO THE MAX - in terms of what the possible linkages / other folks potentially involved are - they CERTAINLY SHOULD BE!!!!!
Don't Ya' Think?
Peace, Love, Equality and Humane Justice...
PROTECT OUR CHILDREN!
N.S.
"As stated by You Tube Video Contributor: "Federal authorities conducting a child-porn investigation raided the headquarters Saturday of a ministry run by a convicted tax evader once labeled by prosecutors as a polygamist who preys on girls..."
["Tony Alamo's HQ Raided in Child Porn Case"; as contributed to You Tube by factnetmember on 9/21/08; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IMUrNdVsc7M]
Two New York State Stories (in TWO Days) That Caught My Eye:
1) "Marist prof guilty of child porn"
"POUGHKEEPSIE — A Marist College professor was found guilty Tuesday of more than 130 felonies relating to his possession of child pornography on his office computer.
James Kent, a Kingston resident, was convicted of two counts of felony promoting a sexual performance by a child and 134 counts of felony possessing a sexual performance by a child. Rockland County Court Judge Victor Alfieri announced his verdict following a 2... week non-jury trial in Dutchess County Court, Dutchess County Senior Assistant District Attorney Marjorie Smith said Wednesday. She said Kent is scheduled to be sentenced May 26 and faces 2 1/3 to seven years in state prison on the felony promoting charges and 1 1/3 to four years in prison on the felony possession charges.
Smith said Kent was acquitted of seven counts of felony possession of a sexual performance by a child.
On April 5, 2007, Kent asked information technology staff at the college to check his computer because it kept constantly rebooting, Smith said. She said the staff discovered the computer kept getting “hung up” on some pictures, which were discovered to be of semi-clad children in suggestive poses. Smith said the staff then took the computer’s hard drive and did an internal review, which ultimately led to the Poughkeepsie town police being called.
A police investigation of the computer led to the discovery of thousands of images of child pornography, Smith said. She said most of the images depicted young girls, though there were some images of young boys engaged in bestiality.
Smith said the images were of “extraordinarily graphic depictions of children being abused” by adults and other children. She added that police also seized three floppy disks of images from Kent’s home, though those images were disturbing but not pornographic in nature. Smith said some of the children in the images on the disks were the same as shown on the office computer.
Kent, a professor of public administration at Marist, was arrested in September 2007. He had been on leave since that time.
Published: Thursday, April 2, 2009
http://www.dailyfreeman.com/articles/2009/04/02/news/doc49d42ce8f35f7439330942.txt
Options on site include "print... email to a friend... share this..."
Bold emphasis MINE.
--------------------------------------------------------
2. "Field hockey coach gets 40 years for child porn"
"A former upstate New York field hockey coach will spend 40 years in federal prison for producing child pornography involving the young girls he coached.
Todd Broxmeyer of Lisle (LYE'-uhl) was found guilty in September on two counts of producing child pornography and one count each of attempted child pornography production, possession of child pornography, and transporting a minor across state lines to engage in a sexual act.
He still faces sex charges in state court.
Authorities said the 38-year-old Broxmeyer had sexual contact with three female victims, all younger than 17, between November and December 2007.
He coached girls in field hockey in private leagues and clinics in Broome County, Pennsylvania and New Jersey."
"Times Leader" / "Associated Press": Friday, April 3, 2009 6:42 am
http://www.timesleader.com/news/ap?articleID=1943312
Site Options include: "Save This Story... E-mail This Story... Print This Story.."
Information from: "The Binghamton Press" and the "Sun-Bulletin" --- http://www.pressconnects.com
Bold Emphasis MINE
----------------------------------------------------------
I once stated (although not with these words or this particular emphasis) that possession of child pornography is POSSESSION OF EVIDENCE OF A SERIOUS SERIOUS CRIME AGAINST HUMANITY.
And I would certainly think that folks in possession of such materials MUST either PRODUCE these materials and/or be ASSOCIATED (whether through direct links or a series of linkages...) to the folks that DO PRODUCE (oversee and/or participate in the sexual abuse, rape, and other forms of horrendous - sadistic - abuse of children!) these MATERIALS.
Thus, if cases such as this are not currently being investigated and prosecuted TO THE MAX - in terms of what the possible linkages / other folks potentially involved are - they CERTAINLY SHOULD BE!!!!!
Don't Ya' Think?
Peace, Love, Equality and Humane Justice...
PROTECT OUR CHILDREN!
N.S.
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
Cigarettes... Booze... Marijuana... Other Drugs... Taxation.... Regulation... You Tube Video Blitz... Facts and Stats... Your Thoughts...
HAS THE WORLD GONE MAD?
According to the following recently released documents from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) - (1) "State Smoke-Free Indoor Air Fact Sheet";
(2) "State Comparison Report Cigarette Use (Adults) - BRFSS"; (3) "State System - Trend Report Cessation (Adults) - BRFSS"; and/or (4) "State System - Tobacco Control Highlights Report":
1. AS of 12/31/08 - based upon a household survey (one aspect of the "2008 National Health Interview Survey"):
California and Connecticut were listed as being among the states that had NO "smoke free" indoor laws - AND as being amongst the states that had cigarette rates that were (comparitively, relatively low): 14.3% and 15.5%, respectively. [I can't explain the discrepancy regarding California - or any other state - in the videos represented below - unless the laws (These videos were submitted at different times) have been fluctuating (They certainly have, in many cases) and/or changed.]
Wheras Colorado and New York State were listed as being among the states that had FOUR "smoke free" laws (restaurants, "government worksites", "private worksites" and bars) - AND as being amongst the states that had cigarette rates that were (comparitively, relatively high): 18.7% and 18.9%, respectively.
Utah (which was listed as having three "smoke free" laws during the noted time span) had the lowest rate (11.7%) noted - but these results were quite likely (in my opinion) confounded by the high number (relatively speaking) of "Mormons" (who also, if tales be true, strongly discourage the consumption of coffee and alcohol...) in the state of Utah.
A sampling of some other states that are listed (during the noted time span) as having FOUR "smoke free" laws in effect - are listed - with their respective (comparitively speaking, relatively high to very high) rates - below:
Arizona: 19.8%
Delaware: 19.0%
Illinois: 20.2%
Iowa: 19.8%
New Mexico: 20.8%
Ohio: 23.1% [Think about it!]
Not to mention the fact that:
According to Figure 8.1 ("Prevalence of Current Smoking" - Adults 18+ - U.S. - 1997-Sept. 2008):
Smoking (cigarettes) trends - after dancing around (with the various laws, taxes and mandates?) - actually INCREASED from Jan. 2007 to September of 2008 - to approximately the same levels present in 2004, 2005 and 2006.
The highest rates (adult population, age 18+) of tobacco usuage, according to one or more of the above sources, is amongst the Alaskan Natives and American Indians (35.3%) and those (adults, aged 20 plus) with less than 12 years of formal education (30.6%)
To which one could add the fact that although cigarette taxes have generally gone up, up, up... primarily affecting those that can LEAST AFFORD IT - there was - according to one or more of these same sources (during this same time frame) - NO LEGISLATION aimed towards the cigarette advertising industry.
And although the "gross revenue" from cigarette taxes (2007) was listed as being $936,456,574...
The National and Federal "investment in tobacco control" efforts (2007) was listed (making this investment appear rather insincere...) at a mere $3,422,465.
-------------------------------------------------------------
That said (remember all of these laws and stats are in flux...) - please view and read the following - and give some thought (Feedback is welcomed!) to all of the facts, stats and ideas that are presented here:
["Just Can't Quit: How Far Will Smoking Bans Go?"; as submitted to ReasonTV on 11/12/08; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=136FNtfOgRY]
[""Smoking" Banned In Your Own Home-California Adopts Hitlers Policy"; as submitted to You Tube by Ahmenra2012 on 1/29/09; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J1M9ENyWXIA]
["Jump In Tobacco Tax To Shock Smokers"; as submitted by kmbctv on 3/25/09; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jg4IvRrttEc]
-------------------------------------------------------------
"House set to vote on tobacco regulation bill"; Published - Apr 01 2009 06:24PM EST;
By ERICA WERNER, Associated Press; http://www.rr.com/news/politics/article/9008/7320109/House_set_to_vote_on_tobacco_regulation_bill/100/
"The House is poised to thrust tobacco companies under government control after years of attempts in legislatures and the courts to tame one of the country's signature industries.
'We cannot and we must not wait a moment longer to protect our children from this killer,' Rep. John Lewis, D-Ga., said as lawmakers began debate Wednesday evening on landmark legislation giving the Food and Drug Administration authority for the first time to regulate cigarettes and other tobacco products.
Passage of the bill was expected Thursday morning.
Opponents contended that the legislation would hurt the economy and that the FDA wasn't up to the job.
'The last thing we should be doing is force the FDA to regulate an inherently dangerous product,' said Rep. Steve Buyer, R-Ind.
Senate action would still be required, as well as President Barack Obama's signature, but supporters said both those pieces were in place. They pointed to strong backing from the White House _ where Obama has spoken of his own struggles to kick the cigarette habit _ and an increased Democratic majority in a Senate that's already shown itself inclined to support the bill.
The Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act would amount to the biggest change ever in the government's approach toward tobacco, which has remained largely hands-off even as the health hazards have become increasingly clear.
Although the FDA wouldn't be allowed to ban nicotine or tobacco, the agency would be able to regulate the contents of tobacco products, make public their ingredients, prohibit flavoring, require much larger warning labels and control marketing campaigns, especially those geared toward children.
'This would be the most significant tobacco bill the Congress of the United States has ever enacted,' said Matthew Myers, president of Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids. 'It would bring about fundamental change.'
The FDA has come under criticism after fumbling a series of health scares, and opponents of said the agency was already overburdened and couldn't handle the job of regulating another big industry. U.S. tobacco production was valued at $1.3 billion in 2007.
Opponents also argued that the bill by Rep. Henry Waxman, D-Calif., was unrealistically aimed at ending smoking altogether and wouldn't allow nicotine addicts to learn of alternatives like smokeless tobacco. Supporters of the bill disputed that claim.
Adult tobacco users who have not quit 'should be encouraged to move from tobacco products with higher risks to those with lower risks,' said Maura Payne, spokeswoman for R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co.
Buyer was offering an alternate bill that would encourage development of less-harmful tobacco products and leave the FDA out of the process.
The country's largest tobacco company, Marlboro-maker Philip Morris USA, is supporting Waxman's bill. Some analysts say the legislation could lock in Philip Morris' market share while stunting the ability of other companies to compete.
Under President George W. Bush, who issued a veto threat after the House passed a nearly identical version of Waxman's bill last year, the FDA said it didn't want the job of regulating tobacco. The Obama administration is welcoming the task.
The White House issued a statement Wednesday saying it 'strongly supported' the bill.
The issue has a long history laced with lawsuits and politics. President Bill Clinton's FDA chief, David Kessler, pushed hard for tobacco regulations. In 1994, Waxman summoned the heads of big tobacco to the famous hearing in which they testified that nicotine wasn't addictive.
Subsequent lawsuits against tobacco companies resulted in big payouts to states, some of which funded smoking-reduction campaigns that have contributed to a decrease in smoking rates. About one in five adults in the U.S. now smokes cigarettes. But a 2000 Supreme Court ruling that FDA didn't have the authority to regulate tobacco makes congressional action necessary."
-------------------------------------------------
Questions that come to mind:
HAS THE WORLD GONE MAD?
Who is the April "fool" - Smokers? [Big bucks for a cig in NY State!) - or the US (in this instance) government [If "they" really want smokers to quit "for their own good" (ahem) - shouldn't they shut down the cigarette manufacturers? If all smokers were to quit, wouldn't that mean a whole lot less business (and that oh so precious revenue...) for a whole LOT of folks? Don't you think there might be better ways [Lots of taxes are going up in NY State folks!] to finance children's health [How about raising the taxes (these are at least directly relative...) on CANDY and SODA POP?]
Could this issue (non-smoking rules / higher taxation on cigarettes...) be yet another reason why a whole lot of small to medium size businesses (mom and pop shops, chain retail markets, restaurants, bars, hotels, motels, etc.) are (Look around folks! I don't think Americans take well to being sold something and then shamed and punished for buying and using it...) failing?
Whilst, ironically - according to some other sources (to be provided upon request) - up to 95% of the American people want to see (at the same time that smoking is virtually being made into a "crime") marijuana legalized - which would theoretically set up this whole chain reaction [legalize it = big money for the "market" > tax it > shame it and condemn those that use it > re-criminalize it > etc...]
Whilst the boozers [I'm personally in favor of legal cigarettes, marijuana and booze - as long as all are utilized RESPONSIBLY by adults ONLY - AND these items are TAXED WITHIN REASON) go on their "happy" (It looks like folks might be able to buy wine in their supermarkets soon...) way...
Crazy stuff?
I'd say.
But I'm more interested in the thoughts of others, right this moment, than my own! So please DO [Thank you.] add YOUR comments!
[If any errors are noted in my write-up, please let me know and they will be (after checking back with the noted sources) corrected. There is much more information available on these topics via the CDC and other links mentioned and/or provided.]
NS
According to the following recently released documents from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) - (1) "State Smoke-Free Indoor Air Fact Sheet";
(2) "State Comparison Report Cigarette Use (Adults) - BRFSS"; (3) "State System - Trend Report Cessation (Adults) - BRFSS"; and/or (4) "State System - Tobacco Control Highlights Report":
1. AS of 12/31/08 - based upon a household survey (one aspect of the "2008 National Health Interview Survey"):
California and Connecticut were listed as being among the states that had NO "smoke free" indoor laws - AND as being amongst the states that had cigarette rates that were (comparitively, relatively low): 14.3% and 15.5%, respectively. [I can't explain the discrepancy regarding California - or any other state - in the videos represented below - unless the laws (These videos were submitted at different times) have been fluctuating (They certainly have, in many cases) and/or changed.]
Wheras Colorado and New York State were listed as being among the states that had FOUR "smoke free" laws (restaurants, "government worksites", "private worksites" and bars) - AND as being amongst the states that had cigarette rates that were (comparitively, relatively high): 18.7% and 18.9%, respectively.
Utah (which was listed as having three "smoke free" laws during the noted time span) had the lowest rate (11.7%) noted - but these results were quite likely (in my opinion) confounded by the high number (relatively speaking) of "Mormons" (who also, if tales be true, strongly discourage the consumption of coffee and alcohol...) in the state of Utah.
A sampling of some other states that are listed (during the noted time span) as having FOUR "smoke free" laws in effect - are listed - with their respective (comparitively speaking, relatively high to very high) rates - below:
Arizona: 19.8%
Delaware: 19.0%
Illinois: 20.2%
Iowa: 19.8%
New Mexico: 20.8%
Ohio: 23.1% [Think about it!]
Not to mention the fact that:
According to Figure 8.1 ("Prevalence of Current Smoking" - Adults 18+ - U.S. - 1997-Sept. 2008):
Smoking (cigarettes) trends - after dancing around (with the various laws, taxes and mandates?) - actually INCREASED from Jan. 2007 to September of 2008 - to approximately the same levels present in 2004, 2005 and 2006.
The highest rates (adult population, age 18+) of tobacco usuage, according to one or more of the above sources, is amongst the Alaskan Natives and American Indians (35.3%) and those (adults, aged 20 plus) with less than 12 years of formal education (30.6%)
To which one could add the fact that although cigarette taxes have generally gone up, up, up... primarily affecting those that can LEAST AFFORD IT - there was - according to one or more of these same sources (during this same time frame) - NO LEGISLATION aimed towards the cigarette advertising industry.
And although the "gross revenue" from cigarette taxes (2007) was listed as being $936,456,574...
The National and Federal "investment in tobacco control" efforts (2007) was listed (making this investment appear rather insincere...) at a mere $3,422,465.
-------------------------------------------------------------
That said (remember all of these laws and stats are in flux...) - please view and read the following - and give some thought (Feedback is welcomed!) to all of the facts, stats and ideas that are presented here:
["Just Can't Quit: How Far Will Smoking Bans Go?"; as submitted to ReasonTV on 11/12/08; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=136FNtfOgRY]
[""Smoking" Banned In Your Own Home-California Adopts Hitlers Policy"; as submitted to You Tube by Ahmenra2012 on 1/29/09; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J1M9ENyWXIA]
["Jump In Tobacco Tax To Shock Smokers"; as submitted by kmbctv on 3/25/09; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jg4IvRrttEc]
-------------------------------------------------------------
"House set to vote on tobacco regulation bill"; Published - Apr 01 2009 06:24PM EST;
By ERICA WERNER, Associated Press; http://www.rr.com/news/politics/article/9008/7320109/House_set_to_vote_on_tobacco_regulation_bill/100/
"The House is poised to thrust tobacco companies under government control after years of attempts in legislatures and the courts to tame one of the country's signature industries.
'We cannot and we must not wait a moment longer to protect our children from this killer,' Rep. John Lewis, D-Ga., said as lawmakers began debate Wednesday evening on landmark legislation giving the Food and Drug Administration authority for the first time to regulate cigarettes and other tobacco products.
Passage of the bill was expected Thursday morning.
Opponents contended that the legislation would hurt the economy and that the FDA wasn't up to the job.
'The last thing we should be doing is force the FDA to regulate an inherently dangerous product,' said Rep. Steve Buyer, R-Ind.
Senate action would still be required, as well as President Barack Obama's signature, but supporters said both those pieces were in place. They pointed to strong backing from the White House _ where Obama has spoken of his own struggles to kick the cigarette habit _ and an increased Democratic majority in a Senate that's already shown itself inclined to support the bill.
The Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act would amount to the biggest change ever in the government's approach toward tobacco, which has remained largely hands-off even as the health hazards have become increasingly clear.
Although the FDA wouldn't be allowed to ban nicotine or tobacco, the agency would be able to regulate the contents of tobacco products, make public their ingredients, prohibit flavoring, require much larger warning labels and control marketing campaigns, especially those geared toward children.
'This would be the most significant tobacco bill the Congress of the United States has ever enacted,' said Matthew Myers, president of Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids. 'It would bring about fundamental change.'
The FDA has come under criticism after fumbling a series of health scares, and opponents of said the agency was already overburdened and couldn't handle the job of regulating another big industry. U.S. tobacco production was valued at $1.3 billion in 2007.
Opponents also argued that the bill by Rep. Henry Waxman, D-Calif., was unrealistically aimed at ending smoking altogether and wouldn't allow nicotine addicts to learn of alternatives like smokeless tobacco. Supporters of the bill disputed that claim.
Adult tobacco users who have not quit 'should be encouraged to move from tobacco products with higher risks to those with lower risks,' said Maura Payne, spokeswoman for R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co.
Buyer was offering an alternate bill that would encourage development of less-harmful tobacco products and leave the FDA out of the process.
The country's largest tobacco company, Marlboro-maker Philip Morris USA, is supporting Waxman's bill. Some analysts say the legislation could lock in Philip Morris' market share while stunting the ability of other companies to compete.
Under President George W. Bush, who issued a veto threat after the House passed a nearly identical version of Waxman's bill last year, the FDA said it didn't want the job of regulating tobacco. The Obama administration is welcoming the task.
The White House issued a statement Wednesday saying it 'strongly supported' the bill.
The issue has a long history laced with lawsuits and politics. President Bill Clinton's FDA chief, David Kessler, pushed hard for tobacco regulations. In 1994, Waxman summoned the heads of big tobacco to the famous hearing in which they testified that nicotine wasn't addictive.
Subsequent lawsuits against tobacco companies resulted in big payouts to states, some of which funded smoking-reduction campaigns that have contributed to a decrease in smoking rates. About one in five adults in the U.S. now smokes cigarettes. But a 2000 Supreme Court ruling that FDA didn't have the authority to regulate tobacco makes congressional action necessary."
-------------------------------------------------
Questions that come to mind:
HAS THE WORLD GONE MAD?
Who is the April "fool" - Smokers? [Big bucks for a cig in NY State!) - or the US (in this instance) government [If "they" really want smokers to quit "for their own good" (ahem) - shouldn't they shut down the cigarette manufacturers? If all smokers were to quit, wouldn't that mean a whole lot less business (and that oh so precious revenue...) for a whole LOT of folks? Don't you think there might be better ways [Lots of taxes are going up in NY State folks!] to finance children's health [How about raising the taxes (these are at least directly relative...) on CANDY and SODA POP?]
Could this issue (non-smoking rules / higher taxation on cigarettes...) be yet another reason why a whole lot of small to medium size businesses (mom and pop shops, chain retail markets, restaurants, bars, hotels, motels, etc.) are (Look around folks! I don't think Americans take well to being sold something and then shamed and punished for buying and using it...) failing?
Whilst, ironically - according to some other sources (to be provided upon request) - up to 95% of the American people want to see (at the same time that smoking is virtually being made into a "crime") marijuana legalized - which would theoretically set up this whole chain reaction [legalize it = big money for the "market" > tax it > shame it and condemn those that use it > re-criminalize it > etc...]
Whilst the boozers [I'm personally in favor of legal cigarettes, marijuana and booze - as long as all are utilized RESPONSIBLY by adults ONLY - AND these items are TAXED WITHIN REASON) go on their "happy" (It looks like folks might be able to buy wine in their supermarkets soon...) way...
Crazy stuff?
I'd say.
But I'm more interested in the thoughts of others, right this moment, than my own! So please DO [Thank you.] add YOUR comments!
[If any errors are noted in my write-up, please let me know and they will be (after checking back with the noted sources) corrected. There is much more information available on these topics via the CDC and other links mentioned and/or provided.]
NS
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Mighty Love Music Video... You Tube
["Mighty Love SPINNERS"; as submitted to You Tube by namikaze1028 on March 01, 2008; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bXnslL-_Xww]
Peace, Love, Equality and Humane Justice,
NS
Peace, Love, Equality and Humane Justice,
NS
Sunday, March 29, 2009
Health Care Views and News.... Flat Fee Service... You Tube Video... DHHS News Release March 27 2009... New York... Health Care for the Uninsured...
Health Care Views and News...
1. "State Tells Doctor He Can Not Offer a Flat Fee Service to Uninsured Patients"
["State Tells Doctor He Can Not Offer a Flat Fee Service to Uninsured Patients"; as submitted to You Tube by sallee5 on March 15, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D7ygbNS6dl8]
Thoughts?
------------------------------------------------------
2. "...FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE... Friday, March 27, 2009... Contact: HHS Press Office... (202) 690-6343...
HHS Releases $338 Million to Expand Community Health Centers, Serve More Patients
Grants Will Support Centers That Care for the Uninsured, Support Up to 6,400 Jobs [Bold print mine]
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) today announced the release of $338 million to expand services offered at the nation’s community health centers. The money was made available by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act and comes as more Americans join the ranks of the uninsured.
'More Americans are losing their health insurance and turning to health centers for care,' said Health Resources and Services Administrator (HRSA) Mary Wakefield, Ph.D., R.N. 'These grants will aid centers in their efforts to provide care to an increasing number of patients during the economic downturn.'
The grants -- titled Increased Demand for Services (IDS) grants -- will be distributed to 1,128 federally qualified health center grantees. Health centers will use the funds over the next two years to create or retain approximately 6,400 health center jobs.
Grantees submitted plans explaining how the IDS funds would be used. Strategies to expand services may include, but are not limited to, adding new providers, expanding hours of operations or expanding services. The funds will provide care to an additional 2.1 million patients over the next two years, including approximately 1 million uninsured people.
Health centers deliver preventive and primary care services to patients regardless of their ability to pay; charges for services are set according to income. Health centers served more than 16 million patients in 2007, about 40 percent of whom had no health insurance.
The IDS awards are the second set of health center grants provided through the Recovery Act. On March 2, President Obama announced grants worth $155 million to establish 126 new health centers. Those grants will provide access to health center care for 750,000 people in 39 states and two territories.
To see a list of grantees by state, go to http://www.hhs.gov/recovery/programs/hrsa/idsgawards.html. To find a health center near you or to learn more about health centers, visit http://bphc.hrsa.gov/
The activities described in this release are being funded through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). To track the progress of HHS activities funded through the ARRA, visit www.hhs.gov/recovery. To track all federal funds provided through the ARRA, visit www.recovery.gov.
The Health Resources and Services Administration is part of the U. S. Department of Health and Human Services. HRSA is the primary federal agency responsible for improving access to health care services for people who are uninsured, isolated, or medically vulnerable. For more information about HRSA and its programs, visit www.hrsa.gov
... All HHS press releases, fact sheets and other press materials are available at http://www.hhs.gov/news... Last revised: March 27, 2009... United States Department of Health and Human Services; HHS.gov ...
http://www.hhs.gov/news/press/2009pres/03/20090327a.html "
-------------------------------------------
3. From the US Department of Health and Human Services *American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009" [3/27/09 - Modified for this format / See original document at http://www.hhs.gov/recovery/programs/hrsa/idsgawards.html for more extensive (including information regarding other states) information...]:
New York State:
Projected # of Grants: "51"
Projected "Amount": "$19,439,038"
"Projected New/Retained Jobs": "323"
"Estimated New Patients": "89,524"
"Estimated New Uninsured Patients": "31,137"
---------------------------------------------------------
Innovative Ideas and Some GOOD News :) for a Lot of Folks!
Peace, Love, Equality and Humane Justice,
NS
1. "State Tells Doctor He Can Not Offer a Flat Fee Service to Uninsured Patients"
["State Tells Doctor He Can Not Offer a Flat Fee Service to Uninsured Patients"; as submitted to You Tube by sallee5 on March 15, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D7ygbNS6dl8]
Thoughts?
------------------------------------------------------
2. "...FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE... Friday, March 27, 2009... Contact: HHS Press Office... (202) 690-6343...
HHS Releases $338 Million to Expand Community Health Centers, Serve More Patients
Grants Will Support Centers That Care for the Uninsured, Support Up to 6,400 Jobs [Bold print mine]
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) today announced the release of $338 million to expand services offered at the nation’s community health centers. The money was made available by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act and comes as more Americans join the ranks of the uninsured.
'More Americans are losing their health insurance and turning to health centers for care,' said Health Resources and Services Administrator (HRSA) Mary Wakefield, Ph.D., R.N. 'These grants will aid centers in their efforts to provide care to an increasing number of patients during the economic downturn.'
The grants -- titled Increased Demand for Services (IDS) grants -- will be distributed to 1,128 federally qualified health center grantees. Health centers will use the funds over the next two years to create or retain approximately 6,400 health center jobs.
Grantees submitted plans explaining how the IDS funds would be used. Strategies to expand services may include, but are not limited to, adding new providers, expanding hours of operations or expanding services. The funds will provide care to an additional 2.1 million patients over the next two years, including approximately 1 million uninsured people.
Health centers deliver preventive and primary care services to patients regardless of their ability to pay; charges for services are set according to income. Health centers served more than 16 million patients in 2007, about 40 percent of whom had no health insurance.
The IDS awards are the second set of health center grants provided through the Recovery Act. On March 2, President Obama announced grants worth $155 million to establish 126 new health centers. Those grants will provide access to health center care for 750,000 people in 39 states and two territories.
To see a list of grantees by state, go to http://www.hhs.gov/recovery/programs/hrsa/idsgawards.html. To find a health center near you or to learn more about health centers, visit http://bphc.hrsa.gov/
The activities described in this release are being funded through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). To track the progress of HHS activities funded through the ARRA, visit www.hhs.gov/recovery. To track all federal funds provided through the ARRA, visit www.recovery.gov.
The Health Resources and Services Administration is part of the U. S. Department of Health and Human Services. HRSA is the primary federal agency responsible for improving access to health care services for people who are uninsured, isolated, or medically vulnerable. For more information about HRSA and its programs, visit www.hrsa.gov
... All HHS press releases, fact sheets and other press materials are available at http://www.hhs.gov/news... Last revised: March 27, 2009... United States Department of Health and Human Services; HHS.gov ...
http://www.hhs.gov/news/press/2009pres/03/20090327a.html "
-------------------------------------------
3. From the US Department of Health and Human Services *American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009" [3/27/09 - Modified for this format / See original document at http://www.hhs.gov/recovery/programs/hrsa/idsgawards.html for more extensive (including information regarding other states) information...]:
New York State:
Projected # of Grants: "51"
Projected "Amount": "$19,439,038"
"Projected New/Retained Jobs": "323"
"Estimated New Patients": "89,524"
"Estimated New Uninsured Patients": "31,137"
---------------------------------------------------------
Innovative Ideas and Some GOOD News :) for a Lot of Folks!
Peace, Love, Equality and Humane Justice,
NS
Mexican Border... Hillary Clinton... One Courageous Woman... Incredible Music Video Tribute to Marvin Gaye... Peace... Change... You Tube...
[Photo by NS]---------------------------------------------------------
Mexican Border Issues...
One Courageous [Secretary of State Hillary Clinton (Thank YOU!)] Woman!
["Hillary Clinton In Mexico"; as contributed to You Tube by CBS on 3/26/09; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hWQmbqoxu5E]
--------------------------------------------------------
As posted on You Tube:
"A tribute to Marvin Gaye. Here's to peace and change for 2009..."
["Marvin Gaye Tribute - What's Going On"; contributed to You Tube by janisbuckley on 1/13/09; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PS3onWcGg_k]
Saturday, March 28, 2009
Rockefeller Drug Laws...
["Rockefeller Drug Laws Challenged - New York Post"; as submitted to You Tube by NYPost on March 26, 2009; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k1E8bTUbquM]
Thoughts?
N.S.
Thoughts?
N.S.
Grrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr
As a "recovering" whatever I might be - and a spiritual, although not fundamentally "religious" person - I have stated, previously, my displeasure with President Obama's continuation of the Office of Faith Based Services (renamed, I believe) --- and with other aspects of the status-quot (be it local or national, past and/or current) that exploit and/or persecute (generally through group onslaughts and lobbyist groups) non-believers, free-thinkers and --- at this point --- perhaps business-oriented folks (Have we lost all respect for individualism, for innovation, for personal initiative? for the ability to THINK for ONESELF?) for the good aspects of Capitalism? [Every business person is NOT a crook, and every self-proclaimed religious guru is NOT a exemplary American citizen!]
I don't know.
But I do know that it seemed decidedly "weird" to be the only (that I know of) small "for profit" business that applied locally for a Community Development Block Grant [CDBG; start up / business expansion funding only] --- and that all of the other CDBG grant hopefuls present (to my knowledge) were "not-for-profits" --- some of whom already have assets in the tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars (or more) --- and are still requesting (and some apparently receiving...) MORE (ahem) "help."
Whatever.
I can "take my business" - and my HOME - elsewhere - if I so choose...
Which is what business after business after business - in the City of Kingston - has been doing - and probably (if current trends continue) WILL be doing...
Because you apparently can't receive (as a "for profit" enterprise) a buck around here --- OR MAKE A BUCK around here --- UNLESS YOU ARE (THERE CERTAINLY APPEARS TO BE SOME TRICKERY AFOOT - DOESN'T THERE?????) a "PROFITABLE" (AHEM... Isn't this a very strange oxymoron?????) "NOT-FOR-PROFIT..."
And it appears as if even the "not-for-profits" that have modest assets --- some as low as $0!!!!! --- are shut out and/or unaware of these little ('tis my impression / opinion) government / not-for-profit... (tangled in sheets of green?) "fun and games!" (??????!!!!!!)
I could be wrong, of course.
I'm certainly not an expert on any of this...
But I think some things around here could use a serious "look see" / investigation by some folks (preferably from out of the area and NOT connected to the local big-bucks folks...) that are empowered (attached to the state Attorney Generals office?) to do such things...
That said, I would prefer not to be panhandled by homeless folks and/or addicts (though my heart goes out to both) when exiting a local establishment...
But I would personally rather be panhandled (as long as they are not violent) by the above (homeless / addicts) when exiting a local establishment... than by a church group or groups... which is exactly what happened (this actually happened to my husband, who handed me the fliers when he got into the car) when he was leaving a local establishment / business (on Broadway) last night... [You can apparently donate your money and/or goods to these folks online... or even leave your home/property to them in your will, if you so choose...]
Iyiyi.
Anyhoot, the following was received (via email) from the Freedom from Religion Foundation [ffrf.org] and I thought - today - since I am feeling a little "grrrrrrrr" - that I would pass it on:
--------------------------------------------------------
“ . . . I've come to realize it's time to sound the alarm.
Whether we brights are a minority or, as I am inclined to believe, a silent majority, our deepest convictions are increasingly dismissed, belittled and condemned by those in power -- by politicians who go out of their way to invoke God and to stand, self-righteously preening, on what they call 'the side of the angels.'
. . . Politicians don't think they even have to pay us lip service, and leaders who wouldn't be caught dead making religious or ethnic slurs don't hesitate to disparage the 'godless' among us.
From the White House down, bright-bashing is seen as a low-risk vote-getter. And, of course, the assault isn't only rhetorical: the Bush administration has advocated changes in government rules and policies to increase the role of religious organizations in daily life, a serious subversion of the Constitution. It is time to halt this erosion and to take a stand: the United States is not a religious state, it is a secular state that tolerates all religions and--yes--all manner of nonreligious ethical beliefs as well.”
-- Daniel C. Dennett, "The Bright Stuff," The New York Times, July 12, 2003
----------------------------------------------------------
You may agree with some or all of the above --- or no...
That - of course - is your "business" (Is there a pun in there somewhere?) and your right.
Peace, Love, Equality and Humane Justice,
NS
I don't know.
But I do know that it seemed decidedly "weird" to be the only (that I know of) small "for profit" business that applied locally for a Community Development Block Grant [CDBG; start up / business expansion funding only] --- and that all of the other CDBG grant hopefuls present (to my knowledge) were "not-for-profits" --- some of whom already have assets in the tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars (or more) --- and are still requesting (and some apparently receiving...) MORE (ahem) "help."
Whatever.
I can "take my business" - and my HOME - elsewhere - if I so choose...
Which is what business after business after business - in the City of Kingston - has been doing - and probably (if current trends continue) WILL be doing...
Because you apparently can't receive (as a "for profit" enterprise) a buck around here --- OR MAKE A BUCK around here --- UNLESS YOU ARE (THERE CERTAINLY APPEARS TO BE SOME TRICKERY AFOOT - DOESN'T THERE?????) a "PROFITABLE" (AHEM... Isn't this a very strange oxymoron?????) "NOT-FOR-PROFIT..."
And it appears as if even the "not-for-profits" that have modest assets --- some as low as $0!!!!! --- are shut out and/or unaware of these little ('tis my impression / opinion) government / not-for-profit... (tangled in sheets of green?) "fun and games!" (??????!!!!!!)
I could be wrong, of course.
I'm certainly not an expert on any of this...
But I think some things around here could use a serious "look see" / investigation by some folks (preferably from out of the area and NOT connected to the local big-bucks folks...) that are empowered (attached to the state Attorney Generals office?) to do such things...
That said, I would prefer not to be panhandled by homeless folks and/or addicts (though my heart goes out to both) when exiting a local establishment...
But I would personally rather be panhandled (as long as they are not violent) by the above (homeless / addicts) when exiting a local establishment... than by a church group or groups... which is exactly what happened (this actually happened to my husband, who handed me the fliers when he got into the car) when he was leaving a local establishment / business (on Broadway) last night... [You can apparently donate your money and/or goods to these folks online... or even leave your home/property to them in your will, if you so choose...]
Iyiyi.
Anyhoot, the following was received (via email) from the Freedom from Religion Foundation [ffrf.org] and I thought - today - since I am feeling a little "grrrrrrrr" - that I would pass it on:
--------------------------------------------------------
“ . . . I've come to realize it's time to sound the alarm.
Whether we brights are a minority or, as I am inclined to believe, a silent majority, our deepest convictions are increasingly dismissed, belittled and condemned by those in power -- by politicians who go out of their way to invoke God and to stand, self-righteously preening, on what they call 'the side of the angels.'
. . . Politicians don't think they even have to pay us lip service, and leaders who wouldn't be caught dead making religious or ethnic slurs don't hesitate to disparage the 'godless' among us.
From the White House down, bright-bashing is seen as a low-risk vote-getter. And, of course, the assault isn't only rhetorical: the Bush administration has advocated changes in government rules and policies to increase the role of religious organizations in daily life, a serious subversion of the Constitution. It is time to halt this erosion and to take a stand: the United States is not a religious state, it is a secular state that tolerates all religions and--yes--all manner of nonreligious ethical beliefs as well.”
-- Daniel C. Dennett, "The Bright Stuff," The New York Times, July 12, 2003
----------------------------------------------------------
You may agree with some or all of the above --- or no...
That - of course - is your "business" (Is there a pun in there somewhere?) and your right.
Peace, Love, Equality and Humane Justice,
NS
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