Seems like those ever-popular virginity vows leave the head when life kicks in. Thanks to theBCast on Twitter for the link. Methinks we shouldn't be surprised.
Click here to see the video.
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
Taking Care of the People and Happiness
I predict future happiness for Americans if they can prevent the government from wasting the labors of the people under the pretense of taking care of them.
Thomas Jefferson
Thomas Jefferson
Thursday, December 25, 2008
Heart Felt
The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen, nor touched ... but are felt in the heart.
- Helen Keller
Merry Christmas Love.
Just turn the "m" upside down--
Christ Was Love.
- Helen Keller
Merry Christmas Love.
Just turn the "m" upside down--
Christ Was Love.
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
Another Timely Presidential Quote
"The same prudence which in private life would forbid our paying our own money for unexplained projects, forbids it in the dispensation of the public moneys."
--Thomas Jefferson, letter to Shelton Gilliam, 19 June 1808
--Thomas Jefferson, letter to Shelton Gilliam, 19 June 1808
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
Setting the Record Straight: The Three Most Egregious Claims In The New York Times Article On The Housing Crisis
VWV Note: Thought this style of media mismanagement would be of interest:
"Most people can accept that a news story recounting recent events will be reliant on '20-20 hindsight'. Today's (December 21) front-page New York Times story relies on hindsight with blinders on and one eye closed. The Times' 'reporting' in this story amounted to finding selected quotes to support a story the reporters fully intended to write from the onset, while disregarding anything that didn't fit their point of view. To prove the point, when they filed their story, NYT reporters were completely unfamiliar with the President's prime time address to the Nation where he laid out in detail all of the causes of the housing and financial crises."
- White House Press Secretary Dana Perino, 12/21/08
The New York Times wrongly accuses President Bush and his Administration of disregarding signs of danger from Government Sponsored Enterprises (GSEs) and ignores the President's prime time address to the Nation where he laid out in detail all of the causes of the housing and financial crises, arguing that "as early as 2006, top advisers to Mr. Bush dismissed warnings from people inside and outside the White House that housing prices were inflated and that a foreclosure crisis was looming." (Jo Becker, Sheryl Gay Stolberg, Stephen Labaton, "White House Philosophy Stoked On Mortgage Bonfire," New York Times, 12/21/08)
The New York Times completely ignores the fact that while the Administration was pushing for more transparent lending rules and reining in Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, Congress had for years blocked attempts at stronger regulation and blocked reform of the Federal Housing Administration.
House Financial Services Committee Chairman Barney Frank (D-MA) criticized the President's warning saying: "these two entities - Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac - are not facing any kind of financial crisis ... The more people exaggerate these problems, the more pressure there is on these companies, the less we will see in terms of affordable housing." (Stephen Labaton, "New Agency Proposed To Oversee Freddie Mac And Fannie Mae," New York Times, 9/11/03)
Senate Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs Chairman Christopher Dodd also ignored the President's warnings and called on him to "immediately reconsider his ill-advised" position. (Eric Dash, "Fannie Mae's Offer To Help Ease Credit Squeeze Is Rejected, As Critics Complain Of Opportunism," New York Times, 8/11/07)
Over the past six years, the President and his Administration have not only warned of the systemic consequences of failure to reform GSEs but also put forward thoughtful plans to reduce the risk that either Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac would encounter such difficulties. President Bush publicly called for GSE reform at least 17 times in 2008 alone before Congress acted. Unfortunately, these warnings went unheeded, as the President's repeated attempts to reform the supervision of these entities were thwarted by the legislative maneuvering of those who emphatically denied there were problems. Many prominent Democrats, including House Finance Chairman Barney Frank, opposed any legislation correcting the risks posed by GSEs.
The New York Times notes the political contributions of some banks to Republicans, saying "in the 2004 election cycle, mortgage bankers and brokers poured nearly $847,000 into Mr. Bush's re-election campaign, more than triple their contributions in 2000, according to the nonpartisan Center for Responsive Politics."
The article neglects to acknowledge that political contributions from Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac overwhelmingly supported Democratic officials - in particular members of Democratic leadership:
Since 1989, Senator Chris Dodd (D-CT) has received $165,400 from Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. (Lindsay Renick Mayer, "Fannie Mae And Freddie Mac Invest In Lawmakers," Center For Responsive Politics' "Capital Eye" Blog, www.opensecrets.org, 9/11/08)
Since 1989, Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV) has received $77,000 from Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. (Lindsay Renick Mayer, "Fannie Mae And Freddie Mac Invest In Lawmakers," Center For Responsive Politics' "Capital Eye" Blog, www.opensecrets.org, 9/11/08)
Since 1989, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has received $56,250 from Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. (Lindsay Renick Mayer, "Fannie Mae And Freddie Mac Invest In Lawmakers," Center For Responsive Politics' "Capital Eye" Blog, www.opensecrets.org, 9/11/08)
The New York Times wrongly accuses the President of encouraging reckless lending in order to expand the Republican base: "For Mr. Bush, it was part of his vision of an "ownership society," in which Americans would rely less on the government for health care, retirement and shelter. It was also good politics, a way to court black and Hispanic voters."
The facts show that, throughout his eight years, the President was actually encouraging careful and wise lending and emphasized the obligations and responsibilities that come with homeownership. "We've got to be wise about how we deal with the closing documents and all the regulations, but also wise about how we help people understand what it means to own their home and the obligations and the opportunities." (President George W. Bush, Remarks On Homeownership, Atlanta, GA, 6/17/02)
"Most people can accept that a news story recounting recent events will be reliant on '20-20 hindsight'. Today's (December 21) front-page New York Times story relies on hindsight with blinders on and one eye closed. The Times' 'reporting' in this story amounted to finding selected quotes to support a story the reporters fully intended to write from the onset, while disregarding anything that didn't fit their point of view. To prove the point, when they filed their story, NYT reporters were completely unfamiliar with the President's prime time address to the Nation where he laid out in detail all of the causes of the housing and financial crises."
- White House Press Secretary Dana Perino, 12/21/08
The New York Times wrongly accuses President Bush and his Administration of disregarding signs of danger from Government Sponsored Enterprises (GSEs) and ignores the President's prime time address to the Nation where he laid out in detail all of the causes of the housing and financial crises, arguing that "as early as 2006, top advisers to Mr. Bush dismissed warnings from people inside and outside the White House that housing prices were inflated and that a foreclosure crisis was looming." (Jo Becker, Sheryl Gay Stolberg, Stephen Labaton, "White House Philosophy Stoked On Mortgage Bonfire," New York Times, 12/21/08)
The New York Times completely ignores the fact that while the Administration was pushing for more transparent lending rules and reining in Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, Congress had for years blocked attempts at stronger regulation and blocked reform of the Federal Housing Administration.
House Financial Services Committee Chairman Barney Frank (D-MA) criticized the President's warning saying: "these two entities - Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac - are not facing any kind of financial crisis ... The more people exaggerate these problems, the more pressure there is on these companies, the less we will see in terms of affordable housing." (Stephen Labaton, "New Agency Proposed To Oversee Freddie Mac And Fannie Mae," New York Times, 9/11/03)
Senate Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs Chairman Christopher Dodd also ignored the President's warnings and called on him to "immediately reconsider his ill-advised" position. (Eric Dash, "Fannie Mae's Offer To Help Ease Credit Squeeze Is Rejected, As Critics Complain Of Opportunism," New York Times, 8/11/07)
Over the past six years, the President and his Administration have not only warned of the systemic consequences of failure to reform GSEs but also put forward thoughtful plans to reduce the risk that either Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac would encounter such difficulties. President Bush publicly called for GSE reform at least 17 times in 2008 alone before Congress acted. Unfortunately, these warnings went unheeded, as the President's repeated attempts to reform the supervision of these entities were thwarted by the legislative maneuvering of those who emphatically denied there were problems. Many prominent Democrats, including House Finance Chairman Barney Frank, opposed any legislation correcting the risks posed by GSEs.
The New York Times notes the political contributions of some banks to Republicans, saying "in the 2004 election cycle, mortgage bankers and brokers poured nearly $847,000 into Mr. Bush's re-election campaign, more than triple their contributions in 2000, according to the nonpartisan Center for Responsive Politics."
The article neglects to acknowledge that political contributions from Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac overwhelmingly supported Democratic officials - in particular members of Democratic leadership:
Since 1989, Senator Chris Dodd (D-CT) has received $165,400 from Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. (Lindsay Renick Mayer, "Fannie Mae And Freddie Mac Invest In Lawmakers," Center For Responsive Politics' "Capital Eye" Blog, www.opensecrets.org, 9/11/08)
Since 1989, Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV) has received $77,000 from Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. (Lindsay Renick Mayer, "Fannie Mae And Freddie Mac Invest In Lawmakers," Center For Responsive Politics' "Capital Eye" Blog, www.opensecrets.org, 9/11/08)
Since 1989, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has received $56,250 from Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. (Lindsay Renick Mayer, "Fannie Mae And Freddie Mac Invest In Lawmakers," Center For Responsive Politics' "Capital Eye" Blog, www.opensecrets.org, 9/11/08)
The New York Times wrongly accuses the President of encouraging reckless lending in order to expand the Republican base: "For Mr. Bush, it was part of his vision of an "ownership society," in which Americans would rely less on the government for health care, retirement and shelter. It was also good politics, a way to court black and Hispanic voters."
The facts show that, throughout his eight years, the President was actually encouraging careful and wise lending and emphasized the obligations and responsibilities that come with homeownership. "We've got to be wise about how we deal with the closing documents and all the regulations, but also wise about how we help people understand what it means to own their home and the obligations and the opportunities." (President George W. Bush, Remarks On Homeownership, Atlanta, GA, 6/17/02)
Saturday, December 20, 2008
Constitutional Convention: Is Our Constitution in Danger?
The last Constitutional Convention was held in 1787 when our founding fathers sought to replace the Articles of Confederation. That was a good thing.
Today, there is a call from way too many states for another Constitutional Convention. What is the purpose of this call? What is the real agenda? Is it for some minor changes or is it destroy our Constitution, the cornerstone of our government?
Should this call go forward, history shows us a way to stop it.
Back in February 1787 when the call went out, the convention was set for May. When the date rolled around, there was not a quorum present. So, if a quorum doesn't show up, the convention cannot happen.
It also takes a quorum to ratify a Constitution. Look back in history and see how that process happened. Perhaps, we should really look at history and copy it. Put all the delegates in a room that is not air conditioned and that has its windows shut and shutters nailed. Keep them there with no time off until the deed is done. Last time, for only 13 states, it took four months.
If, indeed, minor changes are the true agenda for this proposed Constitutional Convention, then maybe an amendment may be more prudent.
My belief is we must hold our elected officials to the oath of office they take--- to protect and defend the Constitution of the United States.
Just a thought as I recall the values of our founding fathers and the freedoms they gave to us.
Today, there is a call from way too many states for another Constitutional Convention. What is the purpose of this call? What is the real agenda? Is it for some minor changes or is it destroy our Constitution, the cornerstone of our government?
Should this call go forward, history shows us a way to stop it.
Back in February 1787 when the call went out, the convention was set for May. When the date rolled around, there was not a quorum present. So, if a quorum doesn't show up, the convention cannot happen.
It also takes a quorum to ratify a Constitution. Look back in history and see how that process happened. Perhaps, we should really look at history and copy it. Put all the delegates in a room that is not air conditioned and that has its windows shut and shutters nailed. Keep them there with no time off until the deed is done. Last time, for only 13 states, it took four months.
If, indeed, minor changes are the true agenda for this proposed Constitutional Convention, then maybe an amendment may be more prudent.
My belief is we must hold our elected officials to the oath of office they take--- to protect and defend the Constitution of the United States.
Just a thought as I recall the values of our founding fathers and the freedoms they gave to us.
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
Another State Wants to Raise Taxes- Now it is Virginia
FreedomWorks Calls on Virginia to Cut the Budget, Not Raise Taxes
(BUSINESS WIRE)--When states are faced with a budget deficit, the fiscally prudent solution is to tighten the budget and cut bureaucratic waste before increasing taxes on strapped citizens. Virginia is currently facing a $2 billion budget shortfall, which is due in part to over-spending when times were good. FreedomWorks is disappointed that Gov. Timothy Kaine has proposed a 100 percent increase in the state cigarette tax.
FreedomWorks opposes raising taxes, especially in an economic recession. Cigarette taxes are historically a failed public policy and do not bring in anticipated revenue as smokers either cut back, cross borders, or turn to the black market for their cigarettes.
Cigarette taxes are regressive, disproportionately hurting poor families’ budgets. Small business owners, the backbone of our economy, would also be devastated with a loss of a critical revenue stream.
FreedomWorks issued a call to action today to its members in Virginia, asking them to contact the General Assembly and Governor Kaine. FreedomWorks volunteers will deliver the message that this tax increase should be defeated, and the size of the bloated state budget should be reduced.
FreedomWorks President Matt Kibbe commented:
“It is unfortunate that in tight budget times politicians resort to gimmicks to fill budget holes. These problems are often created by their inability to rein in spending during the good times. The Virginia General Assembly would best serve the citizens by rejecting all tax increases and instead look for ways to shrink government and cut spending to cover the budget deficit. Rejecting tax increases would send a strong message to Governor Kaine that as Virginians prepare to live on a budget, so should the government."
(BUSINESS WIRE)--When states are faced with a budget deficit, the fiscally prudent solution is to tighten the budget and cut bureaucratic waste before increasing taxes on strapped citizens. Virginia is currently facing a $2 billion budget shortfall, which is due in part to over-spending when times were good. FreedomWorks is disappointed that Gov. Timothy Kaine has proposed a 100 percent increase in the state cigarette tax.
FreedomWorks opposes raising taxes, especially in an economic recession. Cigarette taxes are historically a failed public policy and do not bring in anticipated revenue as smokers either cut back, cross borders, or turn to the black market for their cigarettes.
Cigarette taxes are regressive, disproportionately hurting poor families’ budgets. Small business owners, the backbone of our economy, would also be devastated with a loss of a critical revenue stream.
FreedomWorks issued a call to action today to its members in Virginia, asking them to contact the General Assembly and Governor Kaine. FreedomWorks volunteers will deliver the message that this tax increase should be defeated, and the size of the bloated state budget should be reduced.
FreedomWorks President Matt Kibbe commented:
“It is unfortunate that in tight budget times politicians resort to gimmicks to fill budget holes. These problems are often created by their inability to rein in spending during the good times. The Virginia General Assembly would best serve the citizens by rejecting all tax increases and instead look for ways to shrink government and cut spending to cover the budget deficit. Rejecting tax increases would send a strong message to Governor Kaine that as Virginians prepare to live on a budget, so should the government."
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
ABA Statement: NY Governor's Sweeping Tax Hikes on New Yorkers Add Strain to Checkbooks and Put Paychecks at Risk All During a Time of Recession
Is this what we are all heading toward in the recession? Higher taxes during a struggling economy?
/PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- As families are struggling to make ends meet during a recession, it is disappointing that Governor Paterson's budget proposal contains such sweeping tax hikes on hard-working families. In an economy like this, the last thing government should be doing is raising taxes on people.
The governor's proposed budget hikes taxes on an array of consumer goods and services. It imposes an astounding 18 percent sales tax on regular soft drinks and juice drinks -- a regressive tax that will hurt most those least able to pay. And the budget proposal expands the 5-cents-per-container bottle bill tax to include bottled water and juices, again adding to the family grocery bill.
The budget also calls for new taxes or tax hikes on clothing, shoes, gasoline, auto insurance, health insurance, health care, beer, wine, cable and satellite TV, bus and taxi rides, movies, the theater, health clubs, and DMV fees, among other everyday goods and services. It also proposes hikes in college tuition -- and more.
These tax hikes are insensitive to families who are facing tough and painful economic times. Many New York families are already struggling to keep their homes, pay their bills and still buy some holiday gifts, all while hoping that the recession doesn't take their jobs. It's mind-boggling that government would propose to pile onto their struggles with new taxes on so many aspects of their everyday life.
Furthermore, the proposed sales tax on regular soft drinks is simply a facade for raising taxes. Singling out one particular product for taxation won't even make a dent in a problem as complex as obesity. This point is supported by science as well as common sense. If we want to be serious about battling obesity, we need to comprehensively address the consumption of all foods and beverages in moderation and get more active as a society. It's discouraging that some are perpetuating the myth that taxing one product will make a difference in obesity, or even contribute to fighting the problem. It won't.
The severe tax hikes on beverages would put at risk good-paying jobs with good health benefits for many hard-working New Yorkers -- hitting them in both their checkbook and their paycheck. The beverage industry supports 160,000 jobs in New York communities large and small, providing a direct economic benefit to the state economy of nearly $7 billion and an indirect benefit of $25 billion.
We appreciate the budget challenges facing the state. And we look forward to working with the Governor and lawmakers on solutions that don't add to the burden of the people of New York during tough economic times.
During the recent campaign season, the people of New York and America were promised middle-class tax relief. Instead, in New York, they're at risk of getting a giant tax bill added to their already stretched checkbooks. This isn't what taxpayers were promised. And more taxes are not what families need in these tough times.
/PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- As families are struggling to make ends meet during a recession, it is disappointing that Governor Paterson's budget proposal contains such sweeping tax hikes on hard-working families. In an economy like this, the last thing government should be doing is raising taxes on people.
The governor's proposed budget hikes taxes on an array of consumer goods and services. It imposes an astounding 18 percent sales tax on regular soft drinks and juice drinks -- a regressive tax that will hurt most those least able to pay. And the budget proposal expands the 5-cents-per-container bottle bill tax to include bottled water and juices, again adding to the family grocery bill.
The budget also calls for new taxes or tax hikes on clothing, shoes, gasoline, auto insurance, health insurance, health care, beer, wine, cable and satellite TV, bus and taxi rides, movies, the theater, health clubs, and DMV fees, among other everyday goods and services. It also proposes hikes in college tuition -- and more.
These tax hikes are insensitive to families who are facing tough and painful economic times. Many New York families are already struggling to keep their homes, pay their bills and still buy some holiday gifts, all while hoping that the recession doesn't take their jobs. It's mind-boggling that government would propose to pile onto their struggles with new taxes on so many aspects of their everyday life.
Furthermore, the proposed sales tax on regular soft drinks is simply a facade for raising taxes. Singling out one particular product for taxation won't even make a dent in a problem as complex as obesity. This point is supported by science as well as common sense. If we want to be serious about battling obesity, we need to comprehensively address the consumption of all foods and beverages in moderation and get more active as a society. It's discouraging that some are perpetuating the myth that taxing one product will make a difference in obesity, or even contribute to fighting the problem. It won't.
The severe tax hikes on beverages would put at risk good-paying jobs with good health benefits for many hard-working New Yorkers -- hitting them in both their checkbook and their paycheck. The beverage industry supports 160,000 jobs in New York communities large and small, providing a direct economic benefit to the state economy of nearly $7 billion and an indirect benefit of $25 billion.
We appreciate the budget challenges facing the state. And we look forward to working with the Governor and lawmakers on solutions that don't add to the burden of the people of New York during tough economic times.
During the recent campaign season, the people of New York and America were promised middle-class tax relief. Instead, in New York, they're at risk of getting a giant tax bill added to their already stretched checkbooks. This isn't what taxpayers were promised. And more taxes are not what families need in these tough times.
Monday, December 15, 2008
Another Bailout Industry Could be Created-- All in the Name of Free
Note: Setting the stage for a wireless czar?
FCC to Consider Next Entity for Taxpayer Bailout
/PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- If the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) moves forward with plans to create a government-operated nationwide wireless network provider at an up-coming meeting scheduled for Dec. 18, it will create yet another government-mandated entity at risk for failure and future taxpayer bailout.
The FCC plans to use this week's meeting to vote on a proposal to auction 25 megahertz of spectrum to be used as a free national wireless network operated by a single provider, creating a new government sponsored enterprise in the tradition of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.
According to the IPI publication, "Should the U.S. Favor a Free Nationwide Wireless Network Provider?"
(http://ipi.org/ipi/IPIPublications.nsf/PublicationLookupFullTextPDF/94BE0 017C8D28CFB862574CE00596D98/$File/NationwideWireless.pdf?OpenElement)
Author and IPI adjunct fellow Solveig Singleton warns the plan is risky.
"This kind of company would not be allowed to fail and therefore sets up a future bailout at taxpayer expense," she says.
The risk of failure is substantial, says Singleton: "The entity will have little flexibility to change business models if it finds itself in trouble."
In the report, Singleton recalls how other failed municipal Wi-Fi plans, including one proposal for the city of Portland, Ore., found the deal uneconomical and unsuccessfully tried to bow out.
Furthermore, in the event the auction winner is headed for bankruptcy and collapse, Singleton warns supporters of the plan if they are prepared to allow the entity to fail.
"Policy makers should keep the federal thumb off the broadband competition scales and stay out of the business of designing broadband business models," Singleton concluded.
The Institute for Policy Innovation is an independent, non-profit public policy organization based in Dallas, Texas. Copies of the publication, "Should the U.S. Favor a Free Nationwide Wireless Network Provider?" are available by visiting www.ipi.org .
FCC to Consider Next Entity for Taxpayer Bailout
/PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- If the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) moves forward with plans to create a government-operated nationwide wireless network provider at an up-coming meeting scheduled for Dec. 18, it will create yet another government-mandated entity at risk for failure and future taxpayer bailout.
The FCC plans to use this week's meeting to vote on a proposal to auction 25 megahertz of spectrum to be used as a free national wireless network operated by a single provider, creating a new government sponsored enterprise in the tradition of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.
According to the IPI publication, "Should the U.S. Favor a Free Nationwide Wireless Network Provider?"
(http://ipi.org/ipi/IPIPublications.nsf/PublicationLookupFullTextPDF/94BE0 017C8D28CFB862574CE00596D98/$File/NationwideWireless.pdf?OpenElement)
Author and IPI adjunct fellow Solveig Singleton warns the plan is risky.
"This kind of company would not be allowed to fail and therefore sets up a future bailout at taxpayer expense," she says.
The risk of failure is substantial, says Singleton: "The entity will have little flexibility to change business models if it finds itself in trouble."
In the report, Singleton recalls how other failed municipal Wi-Fi plans, including one proposal for the city of Portland, Ore., found the deal uneconomical and unsuccessfully tried to bow out.
Furthermore, in the event the auction winner is headed for bankruptcy and collapse, Singleton warns supporters of the plan if they are prepared to allow the entity to fail.
"Policy makers should keep the federal thumb off the broadband competition scales and stay out of the business of designing broadband business models," Singleton concluded.
The Institute for Policy Innovation is an independent, non-profit public policy organization based in Dallas, Texas. Copies of the publication, "Should the U.S. Favor a Free Nationwide Wireless Network Provider?" are available by visiting www.ipi.org .
Interesting Story-It's a Must Read and Reflect-Will it be the first test?
I saw this story on Twitter.
It's downright scary. Let's review for one minute-- the next conference is coming shortly after Obama takes office. With his stated policies on talking to anyone, what will he do? This will indeed be a major test of his commitment to America and to Israel.
By Jim
Dude with Tude (Twitter)
....But on the third day of the week-long conference – also known as Durban 1 — an angry Secretary of State Colin Powell ordered the American delegation to pack its bags and come home. The Conference, created to analyze racism and seek an antidote, was destroyed by racism itself: militant Muslims whose sole agenda was to heap ridicule and blame for most of the world’s problems on Israel and the United States.
The Americans came home, but hatred was hot on their heels. The Conference concluded on September 9; two days later our nation was attacked......More
It's downright scary. Let's review for one minute-- the next conference is coming shortly after Obama takes office. With his stated policies on talking to anyone, what will he do? This will indeed be a major test of his commitment to America and to Israel.
By Jim
Dude with Tude (Twitter)
....But on the third day of the week-long conference – also known as Durban 1 — an angry Secretary of State Colin Powell ordered the American delegation to pack its bags and come home. The Conference, created to analyze racism and seek an antidote, was destroyed by racism itself: militant Muslims whose sole agenda was to heap ridicule and blame for most of the world’s problems on Israel and the United States.
The Americans came home, but hatred was hot on their heels. The Conference concluded on September 9; two days later our nation was attacked......More
Sunday, December 14, 2008
The Ghost of Christmas Past
We finally gathered everyone in the house together so we could decorate the Christmas tree. The poor neglected tree has just been gathering dust downstairs for a couple of weeks. Schedules were just too hectic. Bah, humbug.
With the proclamation of "Tonight is the Night- NO matter what," the gala event took place last night. Let the Spirit fill us.
The TV was turned off and the classical Christmas hymns was turned on and enveloped us all in a sense of peace. The dogs posed for their Christmas photo, complete with reindeer atlers and a Santa hat. The family laughed, but more importantly, we laughed together. The little one found the 12 Days of Christmas book and alternated between singing and reading it aloud to the rest of us.
Lovingly, we looked at each ornament. Memories of long ago Christmases flew through the air. Here's the one from our first Christmas as man and wife, here's one from Baby's First Christmas, here's one my mama gave me when I bought my first house, and on and on.
The lump in my throat expanded with each ornament and soon the tears fell. So many Christmases have gone by. So many memories came alive. And for a time last night, my beloved mama and papa were in the room with me as my mind placed some of these same ornaments on the trees of my childhood.
I have so many favorite ornaments. Two memories that came to the surface last night included ornaments my mama had given me.
One is an American Flag with a 1991 date on it. My mom bought that ornament in memory of my dad, an American soldier. She wanted to honor my father's memory and wanted me to remember the service my dad gave to his country. At the time, I was kinda humbug about the ornament, but now the American Flag ornament is always in a place of prominence as I think about my dad and his commitment to our country.
The other ornament which caught my attention last night was a small gold church. When my mom gave it to me so many years ago, she made a statement. Not only did she make a statement, I can still clearly recall her face, her voice and her love as she made it. "I love this church with its steeple. I love having the church on a tree. After all, Jesus Christ and His Church are the only reason we have Christmas."
Rest in peace, my loving parents. May I always remember their love of God, home and country. May I continue to teach my children the same values.
With the proclamation of "Tonight is the Night- NO matter what," the gala event took place last night. Let the Spirit fill us.
The TV was turned off and the classical Christmas hymns was turned on and enveloped us all in a sense of peace. The dogs posed for their Christmas photo, complete with reindeer atlers and a Santa hat. The family laughed, but more importantly, we laughed together. The little one found the 12 Days of Christmas book and alternated between singing and reading it aloud to the rest of us.
Lovingly, we looked at each ornament. Memories of long ago Christmases flew through the air. Here's the one from our first Christmas as man and wife, here's one from Baby's First Christmas, here's one my mama gave me when I bought my first house, and on and on.
The lump in my throat expanded with each ornament and soon the tears fell. So many Christmases have gone by. So many memories came alive. And for a time last night, my beloved mama and papa were in the room with me as my mind placed some of these same ornaments on the trees of my childhood.
I have so many favorite ornaments. Two memories that came to the surface last night included ornaments my mama had given me.
One is an American Flag with a 1991 date on it. My mom bought that ornament in memory of my dad, an American soldier. She wanted to honor my father's memory and wanted me to remember the service my dad gave to his country. At the time, I was kinda humbug about the ornament, but now the American Flag ornament is always in a place of prominence as I think about my dad and his commitment to our country.
The other ornament which caught my attention last night was a small gold church. When my mom gave it to me so many years ago, she made a statement. Not only did she make a statement, I can still clearly recall her face, her voice and her love as she made it. "I love this church with its steeple. I love having the church on a tree. After all, Jesus Christ and His Church are the only reason we have Christmas."
Rest in peace, my loving parents. May I always remember their love of God, home and country. May I continue to teach my children the same values.
Friday, December 12, 2008
ShopFaithfully.com Launches Virtual Shopping Mall That Helps Churches and Christian Charities Raise Contributions
Note: What can I say? I think this concept is inspired and just plain wonderful!!
/PRNewswire/ -- ShopFaithfully.com announced today that it has released the latest on-line "virtual mall" for people who want to support their Church or favorite Christian Charity. During these tough economic times, this site is the answer to a challenge that Churches and Christian Charities continue to experience as direct donations significantly decrease, while individuals see their savings and investment portfolios severely affected by the troubled financial markets. ShopFaithfully.com provides a solution for Christian shoppers to give contributions in addition to their normal tithing.
Working with leading on-line retailers like Wal-Mart, Buy.com, Family Christian Stores, ToysRus.com, Office Depot, Overstock.com, and iTunes, ShopFaithfully.com has created an environment of giving through shopper's everyday on-line purchases. ShopFaithfully.com gives back a percentage of every qualified purchase directly to the shopper's chosen Church or Christian Charity. Shoppers do not have to make a direct donation and pricing is the same or better than if they went directly to the retailers. This provides the shoppers a one-stop shop opportunity that can save consumers time and money in a very charitable way.
Shoppers can allocate their donations to one of the Christian Charitable Partners, or they can submit their own Church or Christian Charity to be added. The site's most popular feature is the capability to submit a Church or Christian Charity for approval. The submittal can be made by the Church, the Christian Charity, or the shopper. Once approved, shoppers can then select that Charitable organization as their charity of choice. Up to 20% of every qualified purchase they make will be donated directly to their chosen charity. This provides an additional revenue stream that supplements their organization's tithes, offerings, donations, and fundraising programs.
Since shoppers are using the web more than ever to do their everyday shopping and to look for gift ideas, ShopFaithfully.com has partnered with hundreds of leading on-line retailers offering over 10 million products to choose from. In an anticipation of strong support by the Christian Community, ShopFaithfully.com has increased the site's capacity and has prepared a migration path that will support future growth. With an estimated 50 million on-line Christian Shoppers and $240 billion spent through on-line shopping annually, ShopFaithfully.com hopes to reach $8 million annually in donations to Churches and Christian Charities within the next 3-5 years.
/PRNewswire/ -- ShopFaithfully.com announced today that it has released the latest on-line "virtual mall" for people who want to support their Church or favorite Christian Charity. During these tough economic times, this site is the answer to a challenge that Churches and Christian Charities continue to experience as direct donations significantly decrease, while individuals see their savings and investment portfolios severely affected by the troubled financial markets. ShopFaithfully.com provides a solution for Christian shoppers to give contributions in addition to their normal tithing.
Working with leading on-line retailers like Wal-Mart, Buy.com, Family Christian Stores, ToysRus.com, Office Depot, Overstock.com, and iTunes, ShopFaithfully.com has created an environment of giving through shopper's everyday on-line purchases. ShopFaithfully.com gives back a percentage of every qualified purchase directly to the shopper's chosen Church or Christian Charity. Shoppers do not have to make a direct donation and pricing is the same or better than if they went directly to the retailers. This provides the shoppers a one-stop shop opportunity that can save consumers time and money in a very charitable way.
Shoppers can allocate their donations to one of the Christian Charitable Partners, or they can submit their own Church or Christian Charity to be added. The site's most popular feature is the capability to submit a Church or Christian Charity for approval. The submittal can be made by the Church, the Christian Charity, or the shopper. Once approved, shoppers can then select that Charitable organization as their charity of choice. Up to 20% of every qualified purchase they make will be donated directly to their chosen charity. This provides an additional revenue stream that supplements their organization's tithes, offerings, donations, and fundraising programs.
Since shoppers are using the web more than ever to do their everyday shopping and to look for gift ideas, ShopFaithfully.com has partnered with hundreds of leading on-line retailers offering over 10 million products to choose from. In an anticipation of strong support by the Christian Community, ShopFaithfully.com has increased the site's capacity and has prepared a migration path that will support future growth. With an estimated 50 million on-line Christian Shoppers and $240 billion spent through on-line shopping annually, ShopFaithfully.com hopes to reach $8 million annually in donations to Churches and Christian Charities within the next 3-5 years.
Thursday, December 11, 2008
Quack, Quack- Duck the Questions
All I can say is if you walk like a crooked duck, quack like a crooked duck, and look like a crooked duck----
chances are you or your staff are!
chances are you or your staff are!
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Ill Fated in Illinois
The arrest of the Illinois governor with the allegations of massive corruption has got to shake Illinois democrats to the core. Just today, more names are being dropped and memories are fading. Could it be a political type of dementia?
Axelrod now says he was "mistaken" when he said back in late November that he KNEW Barack Obama and the governor had talked about the senator's seat. You know, if his memory is that bad for conversations reportedly held two weeks ago, what else has he been wrong about?
And now, within the last hour or so, the attorney for Jesse Jackson, Jr says he assumes that Jackson is Senate Candidate #5. Jackson has been quick to jump on the bandwagon that no one spoke with his authority when someone supposedly offered large sums of money to the governor.
What's the real story? What is the truth? Perhaps a little truth serum could help these politicians? I find it fascinating that these high profile men who are surrounded all day with advisors just don't know a thing. And they are going to run the country? With their heads in the sand?
Kinda makes one wonder how ill is Illinois? Or how much noise is being stifled.
But me? Hey, I must be mistaken.....
Axelrod now says he was "mistaken" when he said back in late November that he KNEW Barack Obama and the governor had talked about the senator's seat. You know, if his memory is that bad for conversations reportedly held two weeks ago, what else has he been wrong about?
And now, within the last hour or so, the attorney for Jesse Jackson, Jr says he assumes that Jackson is Senate Candidate #5. Jackson has been quick to jump on the bandwagon that no one spoke with his authority when someone supposedly offered large sums of money to the governor.
What's the real story? What is the truth? Perhaps a little truth serum could help these politicians? I find it fascinating that these high profile men who are surrounded all day with advisors just don't know a thing. And they are going to run the country? With their heads in the sand?
Kinda makes one wonder how ill is Illinois? Or how much noise is being stifled.
But me? Hey, I must be mistaken.....
Food for Thought--- 7 Ups
This came to me from a cousin. I liked it so here it is --
The 7 Ups!
1. Wake Up !!
Decide to have a good day.
'This is the day the Lord hath made;
let us rejoice and be
glad in it.'
Psalms 118:24
2. Dress Up !!
The best way to dress up is to put on a smile.
A smile is an inexpensive way to improve your looks.
'The Lord does not look at the things man looks
at.
Man looks at outward appearance,
but the Lord looks at the
heart.'
I Samuel 16:7
3. Shut Up!!
Say nice things and learn to listen.
God gave us two ears and one mouth,
so He must have meant for us to do twice as much listening as talking.
'He who guards
20his lips guards his soul.'
Proverbs 13:3
4. Stand Up!!
. . . for what you believe in.
Stand for something or you will fall for anything.
'Let us not be weary in doing good; for at the proper
time,
we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.
Therefore, as we have
opportunity, let us do good...'
Galatians 6:9-10
5. Look Up !!
. . to the Lord.
'I can do everything through Christ who
strengthens me'.
Philippians 4:13
6. Reach Up !!
. . for something higher.
'Trust in the Lord with all your heart,
and lean not
unto your own understanding.
In all your ways, acknowledge Him, and He will
direct your path.'
Proverbs 3:5-6
7. Lift Up !!
. . your Prayers.
'Do not worry about anything; instead
PRAY ABOUT
EVERYTHING.'
Philippians 4:6
The 7 Ups!
1. Wake Up !!
Decide to have a good day.
'This is the day the Lord hath made;
let us rejoice and be
glad in it.'
Psalms 118:24
2. Dress Up !!
The best way to dress up is to put on a smile.
A smile is an inexpensive way to improve your looks.
'The Lord does not look at the things man looks
at.
Man looks at outward appearance,
but the Lord looks at the
heart.'
I Samuel 16:7
3. Shut Up!!
Say nice things and learn to listen.
God gave us two ears and one mouth,
so He must have meant for us to do twice as much listening as talking.
'He who guards
20his lips guards his soul.'
Proverbs 13:3
4. Stand Up!!
. . . for what you believe in.
Stand for something or you will fall for anything.
'Let us not be weary in doing good; for at the proper
time,
we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.
Therefore, as we have
opportunity, let us do good...'
Galatians 6:9-10
5. Look Up !!
. . to the Lord.
'I can do everything through Christ who
strengthens me'.
Philippians 4:13
6. Reach Up !!
. . for something higher.
'Trust in the Lord with all your heart,
and lean not
unto your own understanding.
In all your ways, acknowledge Him, and He will
direct your path.'
Proverbs 3:5-6
7. Lift Up !!
. . your Prayers.
'Do not worry about anything; instead
PRAY ABOUT
EVERYTHING.'
Philippians 4:6
Big Government in the Words of Our President--- Jefferson, That Is
The following quote is attributed to President Thomas Jefferson. What wise men our founders were.
A government big enough to give you everything you want, is strong enough to
take everything you have.
Bingo.
A government big enough to give you everything you want, is strong enough to
take everything you have.
Bingo.
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
Where is Your Passport? All of them
I saw the article posted by the Read My Lipstick Network on the "others' take on the citizenship issue. I don't buy everything they say, but for the purposes of this post, let's assume I bite.
Ok- Obama is born in Hawaii in some hospital that won't admit it.
How did he go to school in Indonesia on an Indonesian passport? Since Indonesia doesn't recognize dual citizenship, wouldn't his American passport have been surrendered? Wouldn't he have had to renounce his American citizenship?
So, if we take the "others" argument to heart, doesn't renouncing citizenship to a country mean you are no longer a citizen? If this is true ( and to my knowledge, Indonesia has laid claim to his earlier citizenship of their country), then, at best, he is a naturalized citizen.
Still doesn't fit the qualifications as stated in the United States Constitution. And Congress still has their heads in the sand. Perhaps we should remember that at the next elections for your senators and congressmen.
Yep, change in America is here.
Ok- Obama is born in Hawaii in some hospital that won't admit it.
How did he go to school in Indonesia on an Indonesian passport? Since Indonesia doesn't recognize dual citizenship, wouldn't his American passport have been surrendered? Wouldn't he have had to renounce his American citizenship?
So, if we take the "others" argument to heart, doesn't renouncing citizenship to a country mean you are no longer a citizen? If this is true ( and to my knowledge, Indonesia has laid claim to his earlier citizenship of their country), then, at best, he is a naturalized citizen.
Still doesn't fit the qualifications as stated in the United States Constitution. And Congress still has their heads in the sand. Perhaps we should remember that at the next elections for your senators and congressmen.
Yep, change in America is here.
Monday, December 8, 2008
Sacrificial Lambs or Americans?
Today begins the Muslim celebration of Eid al-adha, the festival of sacrifice. This festival is held for about three days as the Muslim faith honors Abraham and his obedience to God.
If you recall the story in the Bible, God asks Abraham to sacrifice his son. I imagine that would have been a hard direction to go, but the Bible tells us Abraham was willing to obey God in this. God intervened and spared his son by sending a sacrificial lamb to Abraham.
Now to the present---
It seems like we recently heard the remark by Barack Obama that all Americans must sacrifice. Gotta wonder what type of sacrifice was meant? Our children, our lives or just America?
If you recall the story in the Bible, God asks Abraham to sacrifice his son. I imagine that would have been a hard direction to go, but the Bible tells us Abraham was willing to obey God in this. God intervened and spared his son by sending a sacrificial lamb to Abraham.
Now to the present---
It seems like we recently heard the remark by Barack Obama that all Americans must sacrifice. Gotta wonder what type of sacrifice was meant? Our children, our lives or just America?
Why the Constitution is in Danger and so are You
I just heard on the news that the man from New Jersey who had a suit in DC for Congress to see the birth certificate of Barack Obama has been denied.
I value the Constitution, therefore I find merit in knowing where he was born. To my knowledge, no place in Hawaii has wanted to claim he was born in Hawaii. To my knowledge, his own grandmother says he was born in Kenya. To my knowledge, he has yet to fulfill the law of the land of which he seeks to become president.
You want to be president? It's simple. Follow the rules that were agreed upon 221 years ago which state that only natural born American citizens can be president.
Does America value the Constitution? Or are those in power to scared to follow the rules?
If an authentic birth certificate cannot be produced, and the Electoral College votes to make Obama president, then our government no longer values the Constitution and will have opened the door for our demise.
Just a thought--
I value the Constitution, therefore I find merit in knowing where he was born. To my knowledge, no place in Hawaii has wanted to claim he was born in Hawaii. To my knowledge, his own grandmother says he was born in Kenya. To my knowledge, he has yet to fulfill the law of the land of which he seeks to become president.
You want to be president? It's simple. Follow the rules that were agreed upon 221 years ago which state that only natural born American citizens can be president.
Does America value the Constitution? Or are those in power to scared to follow the rules?
If an authentic birth certificate cannot be produced, and the Electoral College votes to make Obama president, then our government no longer values the Constitution and will have opened the door for our demise.
Just a thought--
Friday, December 5, 2008
Oprah Snubbed?
Poor Oprah. Reports are out in the news today that poor little female Oprah thinks she is being snubbed by a female governor named Sarah.
Gee, Oprah had no interest in the sister hood of a female running for vice-president. Gee, Oprah really jumpstarted the campaign for a man. Gee, Oprah never issued an open invitation to a female running for the country's second highest office. Only the others. Hmmmm...
Poor Oprah. It's just so sad. And here I thought she was more open minded, being a woman and all.
Gee, Oprah had no interest in the sister hood of a female running for vice-president. Gee, Oprah really jumpstarted the campaign for a man. Gee, Oprah never issued an open invitation to a female running for the country's second highest office. Only the others. Hmmmm...
Poor Oprah. It's just so sad. And here I thought she was more open minded, being a woman and all.
Rank is a Security Risk?
Times have indeed changed. I have a friend who will be heading overseas to fight for our country later this month. He has requested several items to send to his fellow mates for Christmas. They are simple requests- magazines, candy, jerky bars and the like. I'm happy to help.
My surprise came with his address. We are told we can not use his rank when mailing to the APO box as that is now considered to be a security risk. Now this particular chap is not a high ranking officer. Actually he is a NCO. His rank is a security risk?
My surprise came with his address. We are told we can not use his rank when mailing to the APO box as that is now considered to be a security risk. Now this particular chap is not a high ranking officer. Actually he is a NCO. His rank is a security risk?
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