The linked article is a must read from the Washington Post;http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2005/04/29/AR2005042901191.html
The article states there have been 300+ mass graves found in Iraq since US forces entered the country in 2003. These 18 discussed in the article are near Samawah, about 150 miles southeast of Baghdad.
US investigators are recovering bodies from the graves in Iraq. A group helping to investigate the crimes by Saddam Hussein to his own people were showing the graves to journalists.
"Investigators said that women and children were forced to stand at the edge of the pits, then shot with AK-47 assault rifles. Casings were found near the site, they said....Ten of the 18 trenches are believed to hold remains. Magnetic imaging was used to help reach the estimate of 1,500 victims....Of the 113 bodies removed from one trench, two-thirds were children or teenagers. Most of the children were very young, and 10 were infants, authorities said."
Friday, April 29, 2005
Thursday, April 28, 2005
President Bush- Televised News Conference
Below are notes taken during President Bush's news conference. These are rough notes with little editting therefore when a journalist asked a question the first name was included then the question is the first line. The Presidents response begins typically on next line.
Social Security (SS)Want a plan which will not raise payroll taxes or hurt our economy
Give younger workers opportunity to put a portion of their SS taxes in voluntary retirement account… hire rate of return then current systemWould supplement check of SSA number of invest options, simple and easy to understand1 investment option could be treasury bonds (little risk)this would make investments safercan pass on to whomever he or she chooseswilling to listen to any good idea from any partyone political party advantage or another, SS is too important for politics keep SS out of party and expand ownership for every backgrounddems and repubs stand up and do what’s right for our children and grandchildrenWe asking people to do things no one has addressed in 20 years… not surprised some are balking.. I have a duty as president to find answers to problems… if SS don’t think they will get a check, they won’t support…Once Americans know there is a problem they will start asking their reps from states why aren’t you doing something about it”If a president tries to govern by poles, kind of like a dog chasing your tail… SS is a big issue, the longer we wait the more expensive it will be for future problems… each year we wait costs about 600 million dollars
Journalist; SteveRichard Myers says insurgency is just as strong now as it was a year ago
President; I believe we are making really good progress, Iraqi people are seeing benefits of a free society… military performing much better then in past… safer iraq gets the more isolated terrorists will become… some are hard nosed killers… free iraq is important in middle east, “democracy is taking hold… peace is more likely to be norm”Talked with prime minister of iraq, appreciate his courage to stand up… America makes a commitment will stand by… he recognizes this is very important to future… timely arrival of constitution… reach out to disinfected groups in Iraq, invited him to come to America… it’s not easy to go from tyranny to democracy… passed sovereignty about 10 months ago
Journalist greggory; head of family research council, “attack against people of faith”How is faith being used, role playing in politics…
President; Some would like to see judges legislate from bench… I don’t think this is the role of the judge… For the sake of fairness, people I have nominated should get a vote…Role; I view religion as a personal matter… faith plays an important part of my personal life… people oppose my nominees due to judicial philosophy…I am mindful people in political office, you are not american if you don’t agree with my position… I don’t condemn someone in pol process… you should be able to worship how you want and if you don’t, you still equally patriotic
Journalist JohnSeveral times we’ve asked you and aids… about high prices of oil.. how energy bill would have effect on current prices of gasThe best way to effect current prices, ask petro producing nations to increase amount of oil on market… main factor is price of crude oil… if nations have access capacity, can decrease demand and take
Can’t wait a magic wand, Ft. hood soldier said “go lower the price of gasoline” it’s not that easy
1) recognize need to be more energy independent
2) onwar is 19 million acres of land, need 2000 acres to produce oil and gas
3) liquefied natural gas, a lot of natural gas in shipped by liquid form.. only 5 terminals who can receive liquefied natural gas
4) active Nuclear energy
5) abundant coal reservesJournalistIf we had an energy strategy, now we we are in a fix
Journalist JerryTerrorist attacks are at all time high… how do you explain more people are dying on your watch…When you engage terrorists abroad vs at home, we are relentless… there are still those who want to do harm to American peopleIn a broader sense, Long talk in slovakia about democracy, strongly supports democracy… working closely with russians on vehicle mounted weaponry to Syria… Russia has agreed to do is send enriched uranium to nuclear power plant and then collect it once it is used… what US, great britian france and germany realize is we can not trust the Iranians to enrich uranium… iran says can’t we have a nuclear power industry like you… I find it a little strange since they have such vast oil reserves
Journalist;Have you asked john Bolton, about allegations he acted inappropriately
President; John Bolton is a seasoned diplomat, serving our country for 20 years… has been confirmed by senate 4 times… john Bolton is a blunt guy… can get job done.. makes sense to me Isn’t afraid to speak his mind… put some like this at united nations…Before I send you up there, do you think the un is working? Bolton said, no it’s important, but it needs to be reformed…;Today I met with mr Larsen, un diplomat to Syria… he said the world expects mr assad to withdrawal all military and security forces from Lebanon…We have played a role, us… the UN has done a very good job in Syria and Lebanon,… elections in may are free of influence…On other ahdn un has had problems… if un is to be effective they need to clean up their problemJournalist; SS.. if congress were to pass legislation without personal accounts…It’s got to be a part of the package… a lot of debt, unfunded liabilities..workers need to be able to get higher rate of return… why should ownership only be for rich people… why can’t everyone who is not “investor class” not invest… if it is good enough for congress then it is good enough for everyone… government return is not as good as personal accounts… there is no bank account for ss., the system is pay as you go. Through payroll taxes, spends money on current retirees, all that is left is file cabinets of iou’s … encourage ownership.. people to have real assets, here is my mix of stocks and bonds and I can leave it to anyone I want…We are giving people flexibility… vital part in making America a hopeful place for the future… the accounts will mean something to a lot of workers…
Journalist David;Iraq, when troops can come back…
President; based on what you have learned now, fight insurgents and training iraq troops, within next year
There is a temptation to lay out a time table… I don’t think it is wise to lay out time table… the enemy will adjust…. When iraq people are ready…North Korea; Kim Jong Il is a dangerous person, he starves his people, concentration camps, and fear about ability to deliver nuclear weapon… we should assume he can…Bring more leverage by other countries… it used to be just America… Everyone used to say America go fix it… Bilateral approach did not work… the man said he was going to do something and he didn’t. do it… decided to include other people in the “neighborhood”… when Kim Jong Il announced nuclear weapon capablilities… the Chinese took note… it is important to have more then one voice toward Kim Jong Il…Have instructed Sec Rumsfeld to set up missle defense system, in process of getting it up and running. It is important if Jong Il launches a missile, it would be important to shoot it down.
Social Security (SS)Want a plan which will not raise payroll taxes or hurt our economy
Give younger workers opportunity to put a portion of their SS taxes in voluntary retirement account… hire rate of return then current systemWould supplement check of SSA number of invest options, simple and easy to understand1 investment option could be treasury bonds (little risk)this would make investments safercan pass on to whomever he or she chooseswilling to listen to any good idea from any partyone political party advantage or another, SS is too important for politics keep SS out of party and expand ownership for every backgrounddems and repubs stand up and do what’s right for our children and grandchildrenWe asking people to do things no one has addressed in 20 years… not surprised some are balking.. I have a duty as president to find answers to problems… if SS don’t think they will get a check, they won’t support…Once Americans know there is a problem they will start asking their reps from states why aren’t you doing something about it”If a president tries to govern by poles, kind of like a dog chasing your tail… SS is a big issue, the longer we wait the more expensive it will be for future problems… each year we wait costs about 600 million dollars
Journalist; SteveRichard Myers says insurgency is just as strong now as it was a year ago
President; I believe we are making really good progress, Iraqi people are seeing benefits of a free society… military performing much better then in past… safer iraq gets the more isolated terrorists will become… some are hard nosed killers… free iraq is important in middle east, “democracy is taking hold… peace is more likely to be norm”Talked with prime minister of iraq, appreciate his courage to stand up… America makes a commitment will stand by… he recognizes this is very important to future… timely arrival of constitution… reach out to disinfected groups in Iraq, invited him to come to America… it’s not easy to go from tyranny to democracy… passed sovereignty about 10 months ago
Journalist greggory; head of family research council, “attack against people of faith”How is faith being used, role playing in politics…
President; Some would like to see judges legislate from bench… I don’t think this is the role of the judge… For the sake of fairness, people I have nominated should get a vote…Role; I view religion as a personal matter… faith plays an important part of my personal life… people oppose my nominees due to judicial philosophy…I am mindful people in political office, you are not american if you don’t agree with my position… I don’t condemn someone in pol process… you should be able to worship how you want and if you don’t, you still equally patriotic
Journalist JohnSeveral times we’ve asked you and aids… about high prices of oil.. how energy bill would have effect on current prices of gasThe best way to effect current prices, ask petro producing nations to increase amount of oil on market… main factor is price of crude oil… if nations have access capacity, can decrease demand and take
Can’t wait a magic wand, Ft. hood soldier said “go lower the price of gasoline” it’s not that easy
1) recognize need to be more energy independent
2) onwar is 19 million acres of land, need 2000 acres to produce oil and gas
3) liquefied natural gas, a lot of natural gas in shipped by liquid form.. only 5 terminals who can receive liquefied natural gas
4) active Nuclear energy
5) abundant coal reservesJournalistIf we had an energy strategy, now we we are in a fix
Journalist JerryTerrorist attacks are at all time high… how do you explain more people are dying on your watch…When you engage terrorists abroad vs at home, we are relentless… there are still those who want to do harm to American peopleIn a broader sense, Long talk in slovakia about democracy, strongly supports democracy… working closely with russians on vehicle mounted weaponry to Syria… Russia has agreed to do is send enriched uranium to nuclear power plant and then collect it once it is used… what US, great britian france and germany realize is we can not trust the Iranians to enrich uranium… iran says can’t we have a nuclear power industry like you… I find it a little strange since they have such vast oil reserves
Journalist;Have you asked john Bolton, about allegations he acted inappropriately
President; John Bolton is a seasoned diplomat, serving our country for 20 years… has been confirmed by senate 4 times… john Bolton is a blunt guy… can get job done.. makes sense to me Isn’t afraid to speak his mind… put some like this at united nations…Before I send you up there, do you think the un is working? Bolton said, no it’s important, but it needs to be reformed…;Today I met with mr Larsen, un diplomat to Syria… he said the world expects mr assad to withdrawal all military and security forces from Lebanon…We have played a role, us… the UN has done a very good job in Syria and Lebanon,… elections in may are free of influence…On other ahdn un has had problems… if un is to be effective they need to clean up their problemJournalist; SS.. if congress were to pass legislation without personal accounts…It’s got to be a part of the package… a lot of debt, unfunded liabilities..workers need to be able to get higher rate of return… why should ownership only be for rich people… why can’t everyone who is not “investor class” not invest… if it is good enough for congress then it is good enough for everyone… government return is not as good as personal accounts… there is no bank account for ss., the system is pay as you go. Through payroll taxes, spends money on current retirees, all that is left is file cabinets of iou’s … encourage ownership.. people to have real assets, here is my mix of stocks and bonds and I can leave it to anyone I want…We are giving people flexibility… vital part in making America a hopeful place for the future… the accounts will mean something to a lot of workers…
Journalist David;Iraq, when troops can come back…
President; based on what you have learned now, fight insurgents and training iraq troops, within next year
There is a temptation to lay out a time table… I don’t think it is wise to lay out time table… the enemy will adjust…. When iraq people are ready…North Korea; Kim Jong Il is a dangerous person, he starves his people, concentration camps, and fear about ability to deliver nuclear weapon… we should assume he can…Bring more leverage by other countries… it used to be just America… Everyone used to say America go fix it… Bilateral approach did not work… the man said he was going to do something and he didn’t. do it… decided to include other people in the “neighborhood”… when Kim Jong Il announced nuclear weapon capablilities… the Chinese took note… it is important to have more then one voice toward Kim Jong Il…Have instructed Sec Rumsfeld to set up missle defense system, in process of getting it up and running. It is important if Jong Il launches a missile, it would be important to shoot it down.
Tuesday, April 26, 2005
Competitive Medias
You are probably aware the media is evolving. TV anchors, cable news, talk radio and now blogs are fighting for your attention. Print is looking for your readership, TV your viewership and radio your listenership.
The newest to be added to the media is the clout growing from blogs. I read the first blogs arrived maybe 5 years ago, however they were not taken seriously by other forms of media until last year. Until recently it appeared many journalists at the New York Times and many other anchor newsprint were attacking the crediblity of blogs. They attempted to diminish contribution bloggers in their "pajamas" would bring.
The best article I have found thus far regarding the blogging media was posted by PressThink, “Bloggers vs Journalists is Over,” Janurary 15, 2005.
Read; http://journalism.nyu.edu/pubzone/weblogs/pressthink/2005/01/15/berk_pprd.html
The major media outlets have realized change has arrived. NBC, New York Times, and some radio hosts are either voluntarily adapting or feel compelled to change to retain their audience. Some are running articles and discussing seemingly disdainful comments for the weblogs. Others are adapting to the change, incorporating the blogosphere and adding their own personality to the evolution of “contributory news”.
MSNBC is contributing to the evolution of media through shows such as “Connect” hosted by Ron Reagan and Monica Crowly. In this show they are ‘jacked’ right into the public through the web and blogosphere. The shows formula is captivating and the content is provoking. As topics are discussed with callers and experts, the hosts will search the online to see the "chatter" of the blogs. This "chatter", quoting the Hugh Hewitt radio show out of Los Angeles, is the dialogue quickly growing to a roar blogs as news breaks. If you want a futurists look at the future of TV news/shows, I think Connect is a pioneer. MoreThenCorn is a consumer who would enjoy seeing their show daily, however like many I too can not regularly schedule TV time. Competitive media will find a way to get the information I want, to me.
MoreThenCorn sees a future media changing as the public dictates their desires to access information. Probably no different then in the past as media has changed with introduction of radio, then TV, the web.I remember growing up I would sit with my foks and watch the CBS evening news with Dan Rather. This routine grew my interest in current events and politics and for the medias benefit it would help foster the next generation of viewers relying on anchor-disseminated news. Generations would have continued in this routine if our options had not multiplied through today. Where once I watched local and national news and occasionally read a paper, now it is newspapers online, MSNBC/FoxNews, talk radio and blogs.
Many of the old guard in media will still be popular sources of information in the near future. Some outlets will be used less in the future but not proportionate to the increase in other mediums. As media changes over the next 5+ years, MoreThenCorn predicts a substantial increase in demand for information. This will be spurred through accessibility by the public in turn interest in news will grow because of more active participation and our “contributory media.”
Looking further down the pipe, 20 years from today the face of media may not be much different then it is today. By then blogs will be as commen as web pages and maybe their popularity will peak or even decline. The eb and flow of demand by the public in 20 years is just as difficult to predict as fashion in the same year.
It is important to re-emphasize a point from this post; The growing use and popularity of the blogosphere is just an addition to the gathering and distribution of information. Blogging ispreceded by a ‘+’ in the media formula. Network News + Local News + Print + Online Print + Talk Radio + Editorial Columnists + Blogs = well informed public.
Media will only be improved for the consumer and held to more account by the weblogs. If individual professional journalists align themsleves with the blog audience and truly take advantage of this niche, the journalists can use this as a spring board for their careers.
The TV Anchor was popularized by Kronkite. But it was relatively new then. Change occurred when radio news developed into a behind a desk anchor broadcasting through your TV in the living room. The arguments at the Town Hall meeting or whether the Cubs are going to have a winning season will be spread through old channels and new. In the end, there will be creators of information, gatherers of information and consumers of it. These fundamentals will never change.
Now go to the library or Amazon and order a copy of “Who moved my cheese.” You will feel better.
The newest to be added to the media is the clout growing from blogs. I read the first blogs arrived maybe 5 years ago, however they were not taken seriously by other forms of media until last year. Until recently it appeared many journalists at the New York Times and many other anchor newsprint were attacking the crediblity of blogs. They attempted to diminish contribution bloggers in their "pajamas" would bring.
The best article I have found thus far regarding the blogging media was posted by PressThink, “Bloggers vs Journalists is Over,” Janurary 15, 2005.
Read; http://journalism.nyu.edu/pubzone/weblogs/pressthink/2005/01/15/berk_pprd.html
The major media outlets have realized change has arrived. NBC, New York Times, and some radio hosts are either voluntarily adapting or feel compelled to change to retain their audience. Some are running articles and discussing seemingly disdainful comments for the weblogs. Others are adapting to the change, incorporating the blogosphere and adding their own personality to the evolution of “contributory news”.
MSNBC is contributing to the evolution of media through shows such as “Connect” hosted by Ron Reagan and Monica Crowly. In this show they are ‘jacked’ right into the public through the web and blogosphere. The shows formula is captivating and the content is provoking. As topics are discussed with callers and experts, the hosts will search the online to see the "chatter" of the blogs. This "chatter", quoting the Hugh Hewitt radio show out of Los Angeles, is the dialogue quickly growing to a roar blogs as news breaks. If you want a futurists look at the future of TV news/shows, I think Connect is a pioneer. MoreThenCorn is a consumer who would enjoy seeing their show daily, however like many I too can not regularly schedule TV time. Competitive media will find a way to get the information I want, to me.
MoreThenCorn sees a future media changing as the public dictates their desires to access information. Probably no different then in the past as media has changed with introduction of radio, then TV, the web.I remember growing up I would sit with my foks and watch the CBS evening news with Dan Rather. This routine grew my interest in current events and politics and for the medias benefit it would help foster the next generation of viewers relying on anchor-disseminated news. Generations would have continued in this routine if our options had not multiplied through today. Where once I watched local and national news and occasionally read a paper, now it is newspapers online, MSNBC/FoxNews, talk radio and blogs.
Many of the old guard in media will still be popular sources of information in the near future. Some outlets will be used less in the future but not proportionate to the increase in other mediums. As media changes over the next 5+ years, MoreThenCorn predicts a substantial increase in demand for information. This will be spurred through accessibility by the public in turn interest in news will grow because of more active participation and our “contributory media.”
Looking further down the pipe, 20 years from today the face of media may not be much different then it is today. By then blogs will be as commen as web pages and maybe their popularity will peak or even decline. The eb and flow of demand by the public in 20 years is just as difficult to predict as fashion in the same year.
It is important to re-emphasize a point from this post; The growing use and popularity of the blogosphere is just an addition to the gathering and distribution of information. Blogging ispreceded by a ‘+’ in the media formula. Network News + Local News + Print + Online Print + Talk Radio + Editorial Columnists + Blogs = well informed public.
Media will only be improved for the consumer and held to more account by the weblogs. If individual professional journalists align themsleves with the blog audience and truly take advantage of this niche, the journalists can use this as a spring board for their careers.
The TV Anchor was popularized by Kronkite. But it was relatively new then. Change occurred when radio news developed into a behind a desk anchor broadcasting through your TV in the living room. The arguments at the Town Hall meeting or whether the Cubs are going to have a winning season will be spread through old channels and new. In the end, there will be creators of information, gatherers of information and consumers of it. These fundamentals will never change.
Now go to the library or Amazon and order a copy of “Who moved my cheese.” You will feel better.
Ali al-Timimi, a American born Muslim was convicted by a jury on 10 counts in Virgina.
(portion of article follows)
Begin ArticleJury Convicts Islamic Scholar of ExhortationTuesday, April 26, 2005Associated Press
Five days after Sept. 11, al-Timimi addressed a small group of his followers in a secret meeting and warned that the attacks were a harbinger of a final apocalyptic battle between Muslims and non-believers. He said they were required as Muslims to defend the Taliban from a looming U.S. invasion, according to the government.
While nobody ever joined the Taliban, four of the defendant's followers subsequently traveled to Pakistan in late September 2001 and trained with a militant group called Lashkar-e-Taiba.
Three of them testified that their intention had been to use the training they received from the group to join the Taliban and fight in Afghanistan, and that it was al-Timimi's speech that inspired them to do so.
The evidence included a 2003 e-mail in which al-Timimi described the Columbia shuttle disaster as "a good omen" that "Western supremacy (especially that of America) that began 500 years ago is coming to an end, God willing."
End ArticleThe Judge for the case, Leonie Brinkema is allowing the convicted to remain free on bond until July for his sentencing.
MoreThenCorn; "al-Timimi will flee over the pond and will disappear. If he had such a following in the states, then there is someone who will finance a plane trip to the Middle East where he can escape sentencing.
(portion of article follows)
Begin ArticleJury Convicts Islamic Scholar of ExhortationTuesday, April 26, 2005Associated Press
Five days after Sept. 11, al-Timimi addressed a small group of his followers in a secret meeting and warned that the attacks were a harbinger of a final apocalyptic battle between Muslims and non-believers. He said they were required as Muslims to defend the Taliban from a looming U.S. invasion, according to the government.
While nobody ever joined the Taliban, four of the defendant's followers subsequently traveled to Pakistan in late September 2001 and trained with a militant group called Lashkar-e-Taiba.
Three of them testified that their intention had been to use the training they received from the group to join the Taliban and fight in Afghanistan, and that it was al-Timimi's speech that inspired them to do so.
The evidence included a 2003 e-mail in which al-Timimi described the Columbia shuttle disaster as "a good omen" that "Western supremacy (especially that of America) that began 500 years ago is coming to an end, God willing."
End ArticleThe Judge for the case, Leonie Brinkema is allowing the convicted to remain free on bond until July for his sentencing.
MoreThenCorn; "al-Timimi will flee over the pond and will disappear. If he had such a following in the states, then there is someone who will finance a plane trip to the Middle East where he can escape sentencing.
Sunday, April 24, 2005
HipHopMusic.com on Pope Benedict XVI
Was reading through some blogs, MoreThenCorn came across;Posted on April 19, 2005 on HipHopMusic.comTitle; Pope Benedict XVI"So, Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger is now Pope Benedict XVI. Advance word pegged him as the worst possible choice, so far as any hopes for the church becoming more progressive. I'm gonna go see if there's any good analysis up yet."MoreThenCorn read all of the replies to this post. There were quite a few. Following the above post there were many replies concuring with the original. The Catholic Church was being blasted, the Pope Benedict was being slandered, and the replies keep coming with below examples;
***********************************
"it's like the bush election for catholics!Posted by: beelove at April 19, 2005 02:24 PM
I heard he also had nazi ties back in the dayPosted by: sally at April 19, 2005 03:13 PM
what 50+ year old German DIDN'T have "Nazi ties" back in the day?Posted by: Hashim at April 19, 2005 03:28 PM
Whatever, dude's carrying so much baggage, as is the church, and the College of Cardinals still decide that THIS is the best possible way to go as far as picking the next Pope? C'mon...I'm sure he can't rhyme as good as me...That thing on him being against turkey in the eu... that is just mondo-bad dude. Anyway, i'm pretty sure the ottoman owned a lot of europe a couple hundred years ago. They were muslims, not christians. Take that!Posted by: SAKTi at April 20, 2005 05:03
AMSUP APOCALYPSE HOW'S IT GOINPosted by: koopa at April 20, 2005 07:04 AM
*******************************************
The site was full of these thoughtless comments. There were only a few replies containing any historical reference, any objective thought. Below are four thought provoking replies posted on HipHopMusic.com;
**********************************
"I've never seen so much ignorance. There is something greater at work in the Church, and no one here seems to have eyes to see or ears to hear. It is precisely the poison and lies that you all wish to promote, such as liberal theologies and weak morality, that the Holy Spirit intends to stamp out. Perhaps one day you will all wake up - with open eyes and open ears - and realize that the Truth that is upheld and maintained by the Church, under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, could never change and will never change. It is not at all a question as to wether or not the Church will accepted the liberal ideas and theologies of people. She won't. The question is this: will the liberal minded people have and accept the Church?Posted by: luxmundi at April 21, 2005 01:59 AM
I was listening to a Christian radio station today, and they brought up an interesting point. Why would the world expect the bishops to choose a priest that is not anything but completely devoted to his religion. Sure, that may make him an extremist in the world's eyes...but his job is not to please the world, it is to be a leader of the Catholic church worldwide. Why would they choose a softie for that position?Would the Green party choose a candidate who was just moderately passionate about Green party issues? Would liberals support a candidate who was pro-choice? Why would they expect it to be any different for the Catholic church?Posted by: Judy at April 21, 2005 03:16 AM
I see last comments are in favour of the pope-the first ones have lost their interest, it's already an old topic, I suppose. Anyway, notice that people have lost the sense of sacred and the transcendental and seem to possess so little knowledge of and respect for a spiritual tradition.Posted by: anca at April 21, 2005 08:29 AM
People in the Holy Bible it is noted that when Judas committed suicide the Apostles selected another Apostle which was Matthias(Acts 1:26).Notice there was no more mentioning of this Apostle any where in the Bible. Look at Luke 11:47-49. Here you see that Jesus Christ will send prophets and apostles not to be voted in but selected by Jesus Christ. How can man ever see the heart of every soul in the world, he can not, but Jesus.Posted by: Will at April 24, 2005 12:23 PM
******************************************
I edited some of the posts for brevity however the points were not lost from both sides of this battlefield. The beginning posts were full of hate and name calling. These people showed their inability to think for themselves. Unless any of them were present at the Vatican all last week, then I believe they must have read some other hateful media outlets and are just following each other like Buffalo off a cliff. Did they all read just the first two sentences of the same article?
Then comes the last half a dozen posts on the site. We saw historical, biblical context and quotes. Wow! Luxmundi, Judy, Anca, and Will are true thinkers. Catholic they may be. Catholic they may not be. Everyone can self-educate and come to the debate 'open minded' enough to speak with such respect as they.
Yes Anca, when educated posts finally made it to the site, the bloviaters lost their will.
And Progressive is for car insurance.
***********************************
"it's like the bush election for catholics!Posted by: beelove at April 19, 2005 02:24 PM
I heard he also had nazi ties back in the dayPosted by: sally at April 19, 2005 03:13 PM
what 50+ year old German DIDN'T have "Nazi ties" back in the day?Posted by: Hashim at April 19, 2005 03:28 PM
Whatever, dude's carrying so much baggage, as is the church, and the College of Cardinals still decide that THIS is the best possible way to go as far as picking the next Pope? C'mon...I'm sure he can't rhyme as good as me...That thing on him being against turkey in the eu... that is just mondo-bad dude. Anyway, i'm pretty sure the ottoman owned a lot of europe a couple hundred years ago. They were muslims, not christians. Take that!Posted by: SAKTi at April 20, 2005 05:03
AMSUP APOCALYPSE HOW'S IT GOINPosted by: koopa at April 20, 2005 07:04 AM
*******************************************
The site was full of these thoughtless comments. There were only a few replies containing any historical reference, any objective thought. Below are four thought provoking replies posted on HipHopMusic.com;
**********************************
"I've never seen so much ignorance. There is something greater at work in the Church, and no one here seems to have eyes to see or ears to hear. It is precisely the poison and lies that you all wish to promote, such as liberal theologies and weak morality, that the Holy Spirit intends to stamp out. Perhaps one day you will all wake up - with open eyes and open ears - and realize that the Truth that is upheld and maintained by the Church, under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, could never change and will never change. It is not at all a question as to wether or not the Church will accepted the liberal ideas and theologies of people. She won't. The question is this: will the liberal minded people have and accept the Church?Posted by: luxmundi at April 21, 2005 01:59 AM
I was listening to a Christian radio station today, and they brought up an interesting point. Why would the world expect the bishops to choose a priest that is not anything but completely devoted to his religion. Sure, that may make him an extremist in the world's eyes...but his job is not to please the world, it is to be a leader of the Catholic church worldwide. Why would they choose a softie for that position?Would the Green party choose a candidate who was just moderately passionate about Green party issues? Would liberals support a candidate who was pro-choice? Why would they expect it to be any different for the Catholic church?Posted by: Judy at April 21, 2005 03:16 AM
I see last comments are in favour of the pope-the first ones have lost their interest, it's already an old topic, I suppose. Anyway, notice that people have lost the sense of sacred and the transcendental and seem to possess so little knowledge of and respect for a spiritual tradition.Posted by: anca at April 21, 2005 08:29 AM
People in the Holy Bible it is noted that when Judas committed suicide the Apostles selected another Apostle which was Matthias(Acts 1:26).Notice there was no more mentioning of this Apostle any where in the Bible. Look at Luke 11:47-49. Here you see that Jesus Christ will send prophets and apostles not to be voted in but selected by Jesus Christ. How can man ever see the heart of every soul in the world, he can not, but Jesus.Posted by: Will at April 24, 2005 12:23 PM
******************************************
I edited some of the posts for brevity however the points were not lost from both sides of this battlefield. The beginning posts were full of hate and name calling. These people showed their inability to think for themselves. Unless any of them were present at the Vatican all last week, then I believe they must have read some other hateful media outlets and are just following each other like Buffalo off a cliff. Did they all read just the first two sentences of the same article?
Then comes the last half a dozen posts on the site. We saw historical, biblical context and quotes. Wow! Luxmundi, Judy, Anca, and Will are true thinkers. Catholic they may be. Catholic they may not be. Everyone can self-educate and come to the debate 'open minded' enough to speak with such respect as they.
Yes Anca, when educated posts finally made it to the site, the bloviaters lost their will.
And Progressive is for car insurance.
Spinning, Discover It Already!
Ask 6 time Tour De France champion, Lance Armstrong, what he does to stay in shape? He might say “I ride my bike.”
Not everyone has the ambition, motivation or even the time to ride a bike for hours each day. But there is something the rest of us can do to achieve similar benefits. Those benefits are increased endurance, strength, stronger bones, improved circulation and better sleep. All this and more can be accomplished without running on pavement or doing other impact sports. Many of us want to get in shape stay in shape or take our fitness to the next level.
Staying fit and healthy is not something that can be done for a week or two then put on the shelf. It is a lifelong priority, not needing to consume a lot of time. To be good at anything consistency and quality are most important.
If your current fitness level is great or poor, if your spare time is extensive or minimal, a fun way to exercise is indoor cycling classes called Spinning.
The classes generally last 45 minutes to an hour and are upbeat from the use of an instructor, fast tempo music and the collective motivating power of a class workout. Participation in classes usually vary by club but generally number 8-25. They are often held in a room dedicated strictly for spinning classes or sometimes in dual-purpose rooms such as aerobics at 9am and spinning at 10am. They just roll the bikes onto the floor.What to expect; If attending a class for the first time one should arrive 30 minutes in advance for the instructor to give you the standard function and safety lessons. They will familiarize new 'spinners' with the fit of the bike, adjustability and safety.
Spinning bikes are surprisingly different then bicycles on the road. A typical mountain or road bike for the outdoors will allow the rider to stop pedaling at will and coast. A spinning bike is always a ‘fixed gear’ bike. Fixed gear bikes keep your legs in constant motion. Anytime the rear wheel is spinning, your legs will be in motion. Barring a need to stop for a bathroom break, an entire class will be spent non-stop pedaling. Getting used to this type of gear calls for caution in the beginning. Expect a few classes before a level of confidence is achieved.
Basic GearNeeded
Tennis shoes, padded bike shorts, small towel and a water bottle.Riding a bike in one place for nearly an hour has the potential of being a little dull. To keep the class interesting the instructor will change a few variables over the class;1) Music
2) Cadence
3) Commands
4) Resistance
5) Interactivity
Music
The use of music is a given in spin classes. The author has taken just one spin class where the class was instructed purely on voice commands. Popular music incorporated in classes range from jazz to hip hop. The most popular type of music seems to be dance mixes.
Cadence
Simply put, cadence is foot speed on the pedals. It is the rate your feet are revolving. Cadence is important when training on a spin bike or your own bicycle. The range of cadence supports a safe and benefical workout is between 60-110 rpms (revolutions per minute). Ask your instructor how you can tell if you are in this zone.
Commands
In order for the participants to achieve the desire workout planned, th instructor will use a few different commands. These commands are simply words describing an action the eparticpants is to mirror. “Sit, Stand, Climb, Jump, Sprint” are common commands.
Sit and Stand are just as they sound. Either stay seated or stand up out of saddle when pedaling.
Climb is when resistance is increased on the bike allowing your feet to decrease rpms.
Sprint is when resistance is decreased on the bike allowing your feet to increase rpms.
Jump is not over a curb or manhole cover. It is simply a quick stand up and sit down motion done repeatedly.
Interactivity
Some instructors may say encouraging words to class participants during th session. Some may talk with their class and hold a dialogue. Others may get off their own bike, walk around and individually give improving advice.
Successful methods the instructor uses to make the class more enjoyable are; imagining everyone is in a race against the clock, climbing to the top of a mountain summit, or sprinting down a road in the Pyrennes. Instructors may arbitrarily change commands to increase intensity and enjoyability.
There are many health clubs in the valley which offer spinning in their weekly schedules. The author found LA Fitness, 24 Hour Fitness, Bally’s all had regular classes. Many clubs will have multiple classes per day to fit a variety of clientele schedules. Classes beginning at 5am, 9am, 6pm during the week and weekend am classes are common. Whether it is work or kids, school or social life; the spinning classes offered through out each day gives one many opportunities for a workout.
The only catch to this seemingly ideal workout experience; It is the requirement to join one of the valley health clubs. In order to participate, classes are typically member exclusive.
Look in the phone book or online for a club near you. Talk to a membership representative and ask them if you can take one class to see how you like it (even before joining with a membership. Everything is negotiable. Start changing your life a revolution at a time.
Not everyone has the ambition, motivation or even the time to ride a bike for hours each day. But there is something the rest of us can do to achieve similar benefits. Those benefits are increased endurance, strength, stronger bones, improved circulation and better sleep. All this and more can be accomplished without running on pavement or doing other impact sports. Many of us want to get in shape stay in shape or take our fitness to the next level.
Staying fit and healthy is not something that can be done for a week or two then put on the shelf. It is a lifelong priority, not needing to consume a lot of time. To be good at anything consistency and quality are most important.
If your current fitness level is great or poor, if your spare time is extensive or minimal, a fun way to exercise is indoor cycling classes called Spinning.
The classes generally last 45 minutes to an hour and are upbeat from the use of an instructor, fast tempo music and the collective motivating power of a class workout. Participation in classes usually vary by club but generally number 8-25. They are often held in a room dedicated strictly for spinning classes or sometimes in dual-purpose rooms such as aerobics at 9am and spinning at 10am. They just roll the bikes onto the floor.What to expect; If attending a class for the first time one should arrive 30 minutes in advance for the instructor to give you the standard function and safety lessons. They will familiarize new 'spinners' with the fit of the bike, adjustability and safety.
Spinning bikes are surprisingly different then bicycles on the road. A typical mountain or road bike for the outdoors will allow the rider to stop pedaling at will and coast. A spinning bike is always a ‘fixed gear’ bike. Fixed gear bikes keep your legs in constant motion. Anytime the rear wheel is spinning, your legs will be in motion. Barring a need to stop for a bathroom break, an entire class will be spent non-stop pedaling. Getting used to this type of gear calls for caution in the beginning. Expect a few classes before a level of confidence is achieved.
Basic GearNeeded
Tennis shoes, padded bike shorts, small towel and a water bottle.Riding a bike in one place for nearly an hour has the potential of being a little dull. To keep the class interesting the instructor will change a few variables over the class;1) Music
2) Cadence
3) Commands
4) Resistance
5) Interactivity
Music
The use of music is a given in spin classes. The author has taken just one spin class where the class was instructed purely on voice commands. Popular music incorporated in classes range from jazz to hip hop. The most popular type of music seems to be dance mixes.
Cadence
Simply put, cadence is foot speed on the pedals. It is the rate your feet are revolving. Cadence is important when training on a spin bike or your own bicycle. The range of cadence supports a safe and benefical workout is between 60-110 rpms (revolutions per minute). Ask your instructor how you can tell if you are in this zone.
Commands
In order for the participants to achieve the desire workout planned, th instructor will use a few different commands. These commands are simply words describing an action the eparticpants is to mirror. “Sit, Stand, Climb, Jump, Sprint” are common commands.
Sit and Stand are just as they sound. Either stay seated or stand up out of saddle when pedaling.
Climb is when resistance is increased on the bike allowing your feet to decrease rpms.
Sprint is when resistance is decreased on the bike allowing your feet to increase rpms.
Jump is not over a curb or manhole cover. It is simply a quick stand up and sit down motion done repeatedly.
Interactivity
Some instructors may say encouraging words to class participants during th session. Some may talk with their class and hold a dialogue. Others may get off their own bike, walk around and individually give improving advice.
Successful methods the instructor uses to make the class more enjoyable are; imagining everyone is in a race against the clock, climbing to the top of a mountain summit, or sprinting down a road in the Pyrennes. Instructors may arbitrarily change commands to increase intensity and enjoyability.
There are many health clubs in the valley which offer spinning in their weekly schedules. The author found LA Fitness, 24 Hour Fitness, Bally’s all had regular classes. Many clubs will have multiple classes per day to fit a variety of clientele schedules. Classes beginning at 5am, 9am, 6pm during the week and weekend am classes are common. Whether it is work or kids, school or social life; the spinning classes offered through out each day gives one many opportunities for a workout.
The only catch to this seemingly ideal workout experience; It is the requirement to join one of the valley health clubs. In order to participate, classes are typically member exclusive.
Look in the phone book or online for a club near you. Talk to a membership representative and ask them if you can take one class to see how you like it (even before joining with a membership. Everything is negotiable. Start changing your life a revolution at a time.
Thursday, April 21, 2005
Confucius Say, "Pope should be less vague"
After reading the following article;Title - "New Pope reaches out"Subtitle- "Dialogue sought with youths, non-Christians"
Chicago Tribune article of April 21, 2005. Written by Steve Kloehn;
What does Pope Benedict mean? Let us read some quotes to make up our minds;Priorities of Benedict XVI; 1) Reunification with other Christians, 2) Dialogue with non-Christian faiths and civilizations, 3) Special Message for young people
"Primary commitment - working tirlessly toward the reconstitution of the full and visible unity of all Christ's followers...Theological dialogue is necessary."
"I address myself to everyone, even to those who follow other religions or who are simply seeking an answer to the fundamental question of life and have not found the answer."
Analysis; I am Cornfused. What did he say? And no, reading the entire article did not give the above quotes any additional context. I asked multiple Catholics and non-believers at work and everyone shrug their shoulders and began to studder when attempting to explain or justify the banter.
These statements are vague, dull and if the Pope wants to garner attention to his passion and cause, the quotes need to come with more specificity. Blanket statements reminiscent of corporate speak never reach out to us here at home. I hope the Tribune just mistakenly printed only the quotes without thought or philosophy.
Chicago Tribune article of April 21, 2005. Written by Steve Kloehn;
What does Pope Benedict mean? Let us read some quotes to make up our minds;Priorities of Benedict XVI; 1) Reunification with other Christians, 2) Dialogue with non-Christian faiths and civilizations, 3) Special Message for young people
"Primary commitment - working tirlessly toward the reconstitution of the full and visible unity of all Christ's followers...Theological dialogue is necessary."
"I address myself to everyone, even to those who follow other religions or who are simply seeking an answer to the fundamental question of life and have not found the answer."
Analysis; I am Cornfused. What did he say? And no, reading the entire article did not give the above quotes any additional context. I asked multiple Catholics and non-believers at work and everyone shrug their shoulders and began to studder when attempting to explain or justify the banter.
These statements are vague, dull and if the Pope wants to garner attention to his passion and cause, the quotes need to come with more specificity. Blanket statements reminiscent of corporate speak never reach out to us here at home. I hope the Tribune just mistakenly printed only the quotes without thought or philosophy.
Time Magazine... Staring?, Anne Coulter
Freedom of the press, freedom of speech... these frazes are so overused and cliche perhaps I should delete them from the introduction to this thought.... perhaps one last time.Reviewed the 'Time' article on Ann Coulter, and the analysis on AOL...
Here is the MoreThenCorn analysis;
John Cloud of Time writes "...Coulter epitomizes the way politics is now discussed on the airwaves, where opinions must come violently fast and cause as much friction as possible. No one, right or left, delivers the required apothegmatic commentary on the world with as much glee or effectiveness as Coulter. It is almost impossible to watch her and not be sluiced into rage or elation, depending on your views..."
The Time article is hopelessly tilted. Mr Cloud does not seem to know 'airwave' media nor Ann Coulter as well as he thinks. The airwaves are filled with an assortment of personalities. Most I would dare say are objective and reasonable, but also passionate. The article misses to see the difference between passion and animalistic rage.Ann Coulter is someone who can get her listeners worked into a figurative roar. MoreThenCorn has listened to Coulter recently. She holds the audience attention through bursts of humor for the righties to laugh and the lefties to snarl their teeth. She only gives her opinion with which many can say to themselves, "I concur, Ann!" Some probably listen to her for entertainment value. She does pretty well in this area.
There was hardly a paragraph in the Time article which did not attempt to denigrate Anne Coulter, and suggest what the reader should think of her. To go one step further, Mr. Cloud made attempts to pursuade readers to his opinion of many conservative figures in media. Read the article and decide for yourself.
My own attempts are fruitless to persuade readers of Mr Clouds inability to be objective. You may realize this on your own.
Here is the MoreThenCorn analysis;
John Cloud of Time writes "...Coulter epitomizes the way politics is now discussed on the airwaves, where opinions must come violently fast and cause as much friction as possible. No one, right or left, delivers the required apothegmatic commentary on the world with as much glee or effectiveness as Coulter. It is almost impossible to watch her and not be sluiced into rage or elation, depending on your views..."
The Time article is hopelessly tilted. Mr Cloud does not seem to know 'airwave' media nor Ann Coulter as well as he thinks. The airwaves are filled with an assortment of personalities. Most I would dare say are objective and reasonable, but also passionate. The article misses to see the difference between passion and animalistic rage.Ann Coulter is someone who can get her listeners worked into a figurative roar. MoreThenCorn has listened to Coulter recently. She holds the audience attention through bursts of humor for the righties to laugh and the lefties to snarl their teeth. She only gives her opinion with which many can say to themselves, "I concur, Ann!" Some probably listen to her for entertainment value. She does pretty well in this area.
There was hardly a paragraph in the Time article which did not attempt to denigrate Anne Coulter, and suggest what the reader should think of her. To go one step further, Mr. Cloud made attempts to pursuade readers to his opinion of many conservative figures in media. Read the article and decide for yourself.
My own attempts are fruitless to persuade readers of Mr Clouds inability to be objective. You may realize this on your own.
Wednesday, April 20, 2005
Progressive Church Will Lose Believers
The Catholic Church has a membership of over 1 Billion according to cable news. After Pope John Paul II passed away, Bill OReilly of "The OReilly Factor" aired on either Friday, April 1 or Monday April 4 a show in which his two guests were naming the many great things the Pope has done for the world. Mr OReilly concurred with these points. However he brought out a page he held from which he read the statistics of church attendance of Catholics over the last number of years.The statistics showed a steady and incredible decline in church membership over the last 20+ years. Church attendance is down by 50% on average.
The statistics showed some European countries who are historically devout Catholic having 8-13% attendance by those claiming Catholicism as their chosen religion.
While this is not surprising in a Europe now quite secular, the world average is declining. One of the guests on The Factor stated the Catholic church is in decline however some Evangelical churches are in rapid growth around the world. It was also mentioned, not all Evangelical churches are growing, some are also in decline. Why is the church in decline?
I am Lutheran and attended Easter services at a Lutheran church in Tempe, AZ. I had preferred to attend one of the first 3 services Easter morning, however decided to go for a bike ride early and attend the 4th service at 10:45am. Growing up Lutheran I have heard the Easter service ritual many times and find comfort and hearing thepredictable Easter message. The entire service can be summed up in a short, spontaneous dialogue between Pastor and the congregation;
Pastor; "He is Risen!"
Congregation; "He is Risen indeed Hallelujiah.
"The above two lines would be said often as the services began and again as they ended. For me this is the most important part of the service. Quite possibly these same words are part of a tradition in many other Christian churches?
When attending the 4th service of 4 at the Lutheran church I failed to hear this anchor in Lutheran Easter services. This 'Praise' service is a more modern worship service. Intially I did not care for a service led by a sometimes plain clothes pastor, accompanied by a full band to encourage song and more casual congregation. I did warm up to the Praise services after attending them a few more times.
What I have noticed over the last few years of attending these services some weeks and traditional services other weeks is the message is different. The message of good news is more often watered down in a Praise service. Tradition is less obvious in these services. The pastor seems to have less of a leading roll in the worship. The two old testament verses and the Gospel reading were all done by members of the congregation. The pastor gave up the responsibility of the childrens message to a member of the congregation.
The songs were not out of the hymnal but were modern songs where stanzas are repeated 2 and 3 times because I do not feel the authors spent enough time developing the lyrics. These songs seemed shallow and without a message, so did the service.
The pastor is the educated, trained and ordained servant of the word. Let pastors teach and members listen.
Regardless of whether member numbers of the Lutheran Church are in decline today, if these patterns continue, the Lutheran Church will be desperate times in no time. Tradition and ritual are almost as important to the church as the word itself. Changing the church to fit the times? The times should change to fit the church. A 'progressive' culture has led to an 8% Catholic church attendance in Belgium? For the church to be 'progressive' appears to be dangerous at best.
The statistics showed some European countries who are historically devout Catholic having 8-13% attendance by those claiming Catholicism as their chosen religion.
While this is not surprising in a Europe now quite secular, the world average is declining. One of the guests on The Factor stated the Catholic church is in decline however some Evangelical churches are in rapid growth around the world. It was also mentioned, not all Evangelical churches are growing, some are also in decline. Why is the church in decline?
I am Lutheran and attended Easter services at a Lutheran church in Tempe, AZ. I had preferred to attend one of the first 3 services Easter morning, however decided to go for a bike ride early and attend the 4th service at 10:45am. Growing up Lutheran I have heard the Easter service ritual many times and find comfort and hearing thepredictable Easter message. The entire service can be summed up in a short, spontaneous dialogue between Pastor and the congregation;
Pastor; "He is Risen!"
Congregation; "He is Risen indeed Hallelujiah.
"The above two lines would be said often as the services began and again as they ended. For me this is the most important part of the service. Quite possibly these same words are part of a tradition in many other Christian churches?
When attending the 4th service of 4 at the Lutheran church I failed to hear this anchor in Lutheran Easter services. This 'Praise' service is a more modern worship service. Intially I did not care for a service led by a sometimes plain clothes pastor, accompanied by a full band to encourage song and more casual congregation. I did warm up to the Praise services after attending them a few more times.
What I have noticed over the last few years of attending these services some weeks and traditional services other weeks is the message is different. The message of good news is more often watered down in a Praise service. Tradition is less obvious in these services. The pastor seems to have less of a leading roll in the worship. The two old testament verses and the Gospel reading were all done by members of the congregation. The pastor gave up the responsibility of the childrens message to a member of the congregation.
The songs were not out of the hymnal but were modern songs where stanzas are repeated 2 and 3 times because I do not feel the authors spent enough time developing the lyrics. These songs seemed shallow and without a message, so did the service.
The pastor is the educated, trained and ordained servant of the word. Let pastors teach and members listen.
Regardless of whether member numbers of the Lutheran Church are in decline today, if these patterns continue, the Lutheran Church will be desperate times in no time. Tradition and ritual are almost as important to the church as the word itself. Changing the church to fit the times? The times should change to fit the church. A 'progressive' culture has led to an 8% Catholic church attendance in Belgium? For the church to be 'progressive' appears to be dangerous at best.
Tuesday, April 19, 2005
Habemus Papam
For Catholics and others, today Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger, was elected Pope Benedict XVI.Some of the radio personalities and broadcasters were correct. It appears the College of Cardinals decided against candidates for Pope who were younger and would have a long tenure as Pontiff for the Catholic Church. An elder Pope was selected with the idea of a "transitional" pope. Transitioning from the long legacy of Pope John Paul II and into the 266th Pontiff.
MoreThenCorn had incorrectly predicted a Spanish decent Pope be elected. Reason; The Catholic Church is alive and well among Spanish speaking communities. Mexico, Central/South America these countries on these continents are overwhelmingly Catholic.
It is unknown if consideration was made to Pope Benedicts country of origin, Germany. It is reasonable to conjecture this German Pope will bring change in his tenure for rebuilding the European Catholic faith. Countries such as Germany, France, Belgium and many other Western and Eastern European countries are secular today. Churches are empty, of nearly all faiths.
I visited Germany in 1994. Living near Hanover in Peppinghausen, Germany are the Reasoner/Rosener family. They are my family still in the motherland. I attended church with them at their Lutheran Church in a neighboring town. Even in 1994 it was apparent not only the Catholic Church but all faiths were in decline in once staunchly Christian Europe. In this beautiful and large church which probably could seat many hundreds, there may have been 50 in attendance. It was very surprising to me as a kid of 15 years. My family had been going to church regularly from the time I was about 3 years. It was bizarre to me how Germany, from where the great reformer, Martin Luther had come, was a country in religious decline.
God Bless Pope Benedict XVI.
MoreThenCorn had incorrectly predicted a Spanish decent Pope be elected. Reason; The Catholic Church is alive and well among Spanish speaking communities. Mexico, Central/South America these countries on these continents are overwhelmingly Catholic.
It is unknown if consideration was made to Pope Benedicts country of origin, Germany. It is reasonable to conjecture this German Pope will bring change in his tenure for rebuilding the European Catholic faith. Countries such as Germany, France, Belgium and many other Western and Eastern European countries are secular today. Churches are empty, of nearly all faiths.
I visited Germany in 1994. Living near Hanover in Peppinghausen, Germany are the Reasoner/Rosener family. They are my family still in the motherland. I attended church with them at their Lutheran Church in a neighboring town. Even in 1994 it was apparent not only the Catholic Church but all faiths were in decline in once staunchly Christian Europe. In this beautiful and large church which probably could seat many hundreds, there may have been 50 in attendance. It was very surprising to me as a kid of 15 years. My family had been going to church regularly from the time I was about 3 years. It was bizarre to me how Germany, from where the great reformer, Martin Luther had come, was a country in religious decline.
God Bless Pope Benedict XVI.
Thursday, April 14, 2005
Investor Confidence, Child Confidence
Yesterday on "Your World" w/Neil Cavuto a few discussions were about corporate accounting scandals and their possible effect on the economy.
The most recent is an insurance company CEO under investigation (..of whom I work and will keep comments to a minimum).
These questionable dealings among larger companies and their leadership is disconcerting not just through these fraudulent activities being realized. It is more troubling these individuals were put in a position with the utmost responsibility and they chose to make illegal decisions. It hurt not just themselves and their careers but the confidence of the employees, their employees retirement-401k and other investors. For someone to knowingly roll the dice on the lives of so many is a poler opposite of the performance they were expected to bring when hired to fill their post.
Not counting the story behind the wife of Andrew Fastow, of Enron... other vicitims of this fraud are the families and especially the children of those brought on charges. Dennis Kozlowski (Tyco), Ken Lay (Enron), David Myers (WorldCom) failed their respect from employees, failed as a leader, but they also failed as fathers due to the positive role model they should have been for their children. All parents can learn a lesson from them, "Everything you do effects your children."
The most recent is an insurance company CEO under investigation (..of whom I work and will keep comments to a minimum).
These questionable dealings among larger companies and their leadership is disconcerting not just through these fraudulent activities being realized. It is more troubling these individuals were put in a position with the utmost responsibility and they chose to make illegal decisions. It hurt not just themselves and their careers but the confidence of the employees, their employees retirement-401k and other investors. For someone to knowingly roll the dice on the lives of so many is a poler opposite of the performance they were expected to bring when hired to fill their post.
Not counting the story behind the wife of Andrew Fastow, of Enron... other vicitims of this fraud are the families and especially the children of those brought on charges. Dennis Kozlowski (Tyco), Ken Lay (Enron), David Myers (WorldCom) failed their respect from employees, failed as a leader, but they also failed as fathers due to the positive role model they should have been for their children. All parents can learn a lesson from them, "Everything you do effects your children."
Tuesday, April 12, 2005
Multi-National Pull Out in Iraq
By now most people know what when the military and Bush Administration would like to begin pulling US troops from Iraq. It is when the Iraq security forces are prepared to shoulder their country's security on their own.
Whether this reduction is done systematically with consistent numbers of troops gradually being pulled over 6 months or 2 years is unknown. We must have confidence in our leadership they know when it is best to begin this withdrawal and how quickly it should be completed.
Yesterday, The Chicago Tribune, posted an article on line; "Army general expresses optimism about troop withdrawal in Iraq." The beginning of the post states, "The Army's top general said Monday that a reduction of U.S. troops in Iraq is possible if the training of Iraqi security forces and efforts to stabilize the country proceed at their current pace.
Gen. Peter Schoomaker, the Army's chief of staff, did not say when the troop cutbacks might occur, explaining that "...such decisions would depend heavily on the judgment of U.S. commanders in Iraq."
According to the Associated Press article today titled, "U.S. Launches Deadly Raid on Iraq Insurgents," another country is considering or maybe scheduling troop withdrawal from Iraq. "Polish Defense Minister Jerzy Szmajdzinski, meanwhile,U.S. Launches Deadly Raid on Iraq Insurgents said his country wanted to pull its troops out of Iraq in the first few weeks of 2006, the latest blow to the U.S.-led coalition."
Poland has been a great ally for the war on terror and if they decide to pull troops early in 2006 then their troops should get a warm welcome home for a job well done.
What we do know is the US media is jumping to conclusions as to what the meaning and ramifications of the announcement by Poland. Per the above Associated Press article, "Polish Defense Minister Jerzy Szmajdzinski, meanwhile, said his country wanted to pull its troops out of Iraq in the first few weeks of 2006, the latest blow to the U.S.-led coalition."
Perhaps by this time, the US has decided troops from all nations involved can begin going home without risking a Iraq's preparedness to police itself and defend against insurgents. Perhaps the US has already been speaking with Poland regarding when they project some troops can come home. It is also possible the Poles have decided this independently due to political pressure or other reasons. We do not know details. Therefore it is dangerous to make a statement "the latest blow to the US-led coalition." The only blow I see is to the objectivity of The Associated Press.
Whether this reduction is done systematically with consistent numbers of troops gradually being pulled over 6 months or 2 years is unknown. We must have confidence in our leadership they know when it is best to begin this withdrawal and how quickly it should be completed.
Yesterday, The Chicago Tribune, posted an article on line; "Army general expresses optimism about troop withdrawal in Iraq." The beginning of the post states, "The Army's top general said Monday that a reduction of U.S. troops in Iraq is possible if the training of Iraqi security forces and efforts to stabilize the country proceed at their current pace.
Gen. Peter Schoomaker, the Army's chief of staff, did not say when the troop cutbacks might occur, explaining that "...such decisions would depend heavily on the judgment of U.S. commanders in Iraq."
According to the Associated Press article today titled, "U.S. Launches Deadly Raid on Iraq Insurgents," another country is considering or maybe scheduling troop withdrawal from Iraq. "Polish Defense Minister Jerzy Szmajdzinski, meanwhile,U.S. Launches Deadly Raid on Iraq Insurgents said his country wanted to pull its troops out of Iraq in the first few weeks of 2006, the latest blow to the U.S.-led coalition."
Poland has been a great ally for the war on terror and if they decide to pull troops early in 2006 then their troops should get a warm welcome home for a job well done.
What we do know is the US media is jumping to conclusions as to what the meaning and ramifications of the announcement by Poland. Per the above Associated Press article, "Polish Defense Minister Jerzy Szmajdzinski, meanwhile, said his country wanted to pull its troops out of Iraq in the first few weeks of 2006, the latest blow to the U.S.-led coalition."
Perhaps by this time, the US has decided troops from all nations involved can begin going home without risking a Iraq's preparedness to police itself and defend against insurgents. Perhaps the US has already been speaking with Poland regarding when they project some troops can come home. It is also possible the Poles have decided this independently due to political pressure or other reasons. We do not know details. Therefore it is dangerous to make a statement "the latest blow to the US-led coalition." The only blow I see is to the objectivity of The Associated Press.
Sunday, April 10, 2005
LA Times article, Misleading w/Purpose
When one visits the Grand Canyon what part of the experience is most lasting in memory? The first five minutes of viewing the mammoth water carving or the last five minutes?
In a meeting at work, when is your attention most keen? In the beginning or at the end?
Edmund Sanders of the Los Angeles Times wrote an artile published Sunday, April 10, 2005. The article was regarding a large gathering of Iraqis. The title of the article, "Iraqi protestors flex free speech force." The subtitle then reads, "300,000 led by Shiites demand that US troops leave."
The story was covering a peaceful rally or protest of Iraqis who are becoming impatient with American Troops and their occupation of Iraq. The beginning of the article paints a very grim picture as you will see. The middle portion segways from negative to more of a positive tone.Below are short quotes from the article.
The first is the introduction;
"Baghdad, Iraq * Chanting "Death to America" and burning effigies of President Bush and Saddam Hussein, tens of thousands of Iraqis flooded central Baghdad..."
"...many Shiite Arabs in Iraq have grown so frustrated by the lingering occupation... they took to the streets to call for... [US] troop withdrawal."
[Protestors] "Carrying banners that read 'Go Out' and 'Leave Our Country' "
"The American people need to know that they can't suppress us anymore, even with all their strength and power," said Salih Khalaf.
"America is the mother of terrorism."
The transition between negative and a more positive article begins in paragraph 9;
"Raising Fists and shouting in unison, protestors chanted. 'No, No to America! No, No to Occupation!' Many waved Iraqi flags and carried pictures of al-Sadr and his revered father, Mohammed al-Sadr, who was assassinated during the Saddam regime. One protestor dragged a picture of Saddam through the gutter..."
The transition becomes confusing when the article shifts gears away from intial negativity. The article begins including quotations of Iraqis in this same protest who are attending for very different reasons then above.
Paragraph 13; "...Some people in the crowd expressed support for the United States and ambivalence about the occupation." 'I came here today to mark the fall of a tyrant, Saddam [Hussein], and to call for his execution," said Mohammed Abdal Hussein."
" '...we deeply thank all the people, including the Americans who helped us get rid of him...' said Nadhum Jaffar."
****************
An Ear of Analysis:
1) Inconsistencies;
The articles title, subtitle and first few paragraphs imply there are 300,000 protestors all calling for American troop withdrawal. The article infers one mass working in harmony. There are inconsistencies with the first paragraph when "tens of thousands" is then used to describe the crowd. Tens of thousands would be any value 10,000 =<> 100,000. Examples continue as the protestors are still inferred to be one mass with one agenda, Paragraph 7; "By 11am, the massive but orderly demonstration assembled in Firdos Square... What are the other 200k people doing while the LA Times is taking a headcount of angry Arab men?
2) Protest, Mix of Agenda;
The protestors came from many different places. Paragraph 6 hints about this; "Most of the protestors came from the Baghdad slum of Sadr City, but busloads also arrived from Kut, Amara, Baqubah and other cities. Did every person arriving from various cities all have one reason for being there? Did they all get the phone call or email to come down to the city? Even according to the Times article the answer is no. What percentage were there because they want the US to leave? What percentage were there to celebrate no more Saddam? What percentage were there because they simply wanted to show national pride and unity to other Iraqis on their new television stations and freedom of speech airwaves? Mr Sanders did not give us these facts. They would be beneficial in writing an objective article.
3) Order of presentation;
When reading a paper, many people do not finish every article. They may either read the title only to see if it something in which they have interest or read a portion of the article and stop short of finishing it. The positive portion of this article may never be read at all.
Those who do read the entire article are likely to fall into the Grand Canyon analogy; They may remember the beginning and forget the end.
Corn Conjecture;
Respectfully, Mr Sanders is guilty of putting the worst possible face on this event. The editor of the Los Angeles Times can argue the article is balanced due to quotations of seemingly opposing viewpoints. Both the Times and Mr. Sanders are intelligent enough to know the negative beginning will be remembered more likely then the positive end.
It seems possible the 200,000 for which Mr Sanders does not account could be your run of the mill US supporter or ambivalent citizen.
In fairness the article does touch on credibility in paragraph four, "At the same time, the fact that so many protestors were able to gather and freely voice their opinions without bloodshed or insurgent attacks suggest Iraq is making progress toward establishing a democratic system and creating a strong security force." However Mr Sanders is just a little late with this news. The democratic process has been moving forward since the 8 million showed up to the polls. The insurgent attacks have been on the decline for months thanks to both the deliberate dwindling of US influence and the proportional increase in Iraqi force preparedness.
Iraq is improving and the citizens still remember oppression and death. Some may be tired of the US troop presence. Maybe even tired and frustrated enough to take part in this protest. Others are not there to protest American at all. Some maybe there to celebrate another day without their family members 'never coming home' under Saddam Husseins 30 years of brutality. Some may be there to cheer the new democracy. Others are there because they are curious of this new thing called "freedom to assemble."
We must remember nearly every person under the age of thirty has never experienced the freedom of choiec, democracy, or a free market. The average Iraqi is at least as smart as the average American. I think the average Iraqi is hopeful for their future and could see through the agenda of the LA Times.
In a meeting at work, when is your attention most keen? In the beginning or at the end?
Edmund Sanders of the Los Angeles Times wrote an artile published Sunday, April 10, 2005. The article was regarding a large gathering of Iraqis. The title of the article, "Iraqi protestors flex free speech force." The subtitle then reads, "300,000 led by Shiites demand that US troops leave."
The story was covering a peaceful rally or protest of Iraqis who are becoming impatient with American Troops and their occupation of Iraq. The beginning of the article paints a very grim picture as you will see. The middle portion segways from negative to more of a positive tone.Below are short quotes from the article.
The first is the introduction;
"Baghdad, Iraq * Chanting "Death to America" and burning effigies of President Bush and Saddam Hussein, tens of thousands of Iraqis flooded central Baghdad..."
"...many Shiite Arabs in Iraq have grown so frustrated by the lingering occupation... they took to the streets to call for... [US] troop withdrawal."
[Protestors] "Carrying banners that read 'Go Out' and 'Leave Our Country' "
"The American people need to know that they can't suppress us anymore, even with all their strength and power," said Salih Khalaf.
"America is the mother of terrorism."
The transition between negative and a more positive article begins in paragraph 9;
"Raising Fists and shouting in unison, protestors chanted. 'No, No to America! No, No to Occupation!' Many waved Iraqi flags and carried pictures of al-Sadr and his revered father, Mohammed al-Sadr, who was assassinated during the Saddam regime. One protestor dragged a picture of Saddam through the gutter..."
The transition becomes confusing when the article shifts gears away from intial negativity. The article begins including quotations of Iraqis in this same protest who are attending for very different reasons then above.
Paragraph 13; "...Some people in the crowd expressed support for the United States and ambivalence about the occupation." 'I came here today to mark the fall of a tyrant, Saddam [Hussein], and to call for his execution," said Mohammed Abdal Hussein."
" '...we deeply thank all the people, including the Americans who helped us get rid of him...' said Nadhum Jaffar."
****************
An Ear of Analysis:
1) Inconsistencies;
The articles title, subtitle and first few paragraphs imply there are 300,000 protestors all calling for American troop withdrawal. The article infers one mass working in harmony. There are inconsistencies with the first paragraph when "tens of thousands" is then used to describe the crowd. Tens of thousands would be any value 10,000 =<> 100,000. Examples continue as the protestors are still inferred to be one mass with one agenda, Paragraph 7; "By 11am, the massive but orderly demonstration assembled in Firdos Square... What are the other 200k people doing while the LA Times is taking a headcount of angry Arab men?
2) Protest, Mix of Agenda;
The protestors came from many different places. Paragraph 6 hints about this; "Most of the protestors came from the Baghdad slum of Sadr City, but busloads also arrived from Kut, Amara, Baqubah and other cities. Did every person arriving from various cities all have one reason for being there? Did they all get the phone call or email to come down to the city? Even according to the Times article the answer is no. What percentage were there because they want the US to leave? What percentage were there to celebrate no more Saddam? What percentage were there because they simply wanted to show national pride and unity to other Iraqis on their new television stations and freedom of speech airwaves? Mr Sanders did not give us these facts. They would be beneficial in writing an objective article.
3) Order of presentation;
When reading a paper, many people do not finish every article. They may either read the title only to see if it something in which they have interest or read a portion of the article and stop short of finishing it. The positive portion of this article may never be read at all.
Those who do read the entire article are likely to fall into the Grand Canyon analogy; They may remember the beginning and forget the end.
Corn Conjecture;
Respectfully, Mr Sanders is guilty of putting the worst possible face on this event. The editor of the Los Angeles Times can argue the article is balanced due to quotations of seemingly opposing viewpoints. Both the Times and Mr. Sanders are intelligent enough to know the negative beginning will be remembered more likely then the positive end.
It seems possible the 200,000 for which Mr Sanders does not account could be your run of the mill US supporter or ambivalent citizen.
In fairness the article does touch on credibility in paragraph four, "At the same time, the fact that so many protestors were able to gather and freely voice their opinions without bloodshed or insurgent attacks suggest Iraq is making progress toward establishing a democratic system and creating a strong security force." However Mr Sanders is just a little late with this news. The democratic process has been moving forward since the 8 million showed up to the polls. The insurgent attacks have been on the decline for months thanks to both the deliberate dwindling of US influence and the proportional increase in Iraqi force preparedness.
Iraq is improving and the citizens still remember oppression and death. Some may be tired of the US troop presence. Maybe even tired and frustrated enough to take part in this protest. Others are not there to protest American at all. Some maybe there to celebrate another day without their family members 'never coming home' under Saddam Husseins 30 years of brutality. Some may be there to cheer the new democracy. Others are there because they are curious of this new thing called "freedom to assemble."
We must remember nearly every person under the age of thirty has never experienced the freedom of choiec, democracy, or a free market. The average Iraqi is at least as smart as the average American. I think the average Iraqi is hopeful for their future and could see through the agenda of the LA Times.
Friday, April 08, 2005
Women Claims Finger Found in Wendy's Chili
Anna Ayala claims to have found a human finger in her bowl of chili. The chili was purchased at a Wendy's in San Jose, CA. Police from San Jose and Las Vegas got a warrant to search Mrs Ayala's house for evidence.Below is segment of an article about the ongoing story. The story is a serious one, however the way the Associate Press worded the below paragraphs is comical;"It's very important to our company to find out the truth in this incident," said Tom Mueller, Wendy's president and chief operating officer.Wendy's maintains the finger did not enter the food chain in its ingredients. All the employees at the San Jose store were found to have all their fingers, and no suppliers of Wendy's ingredients have reported any hand or finger injuries, the company said.Above is from the article titled; "Cops Raid Home of Fast-Food Finger Finder"Courtesy; Associated PressApril 8, 2005
Friday, April 01, 2005
Ailing Pope
Per the latest online news updates, the Pope's condition is "worsening".His breathing has become shallow and his kidney and heart may be failing. Prayers go out to him and the Catholic Church.
Bush and the First Lady are also praying for the Pontiff. Go to FoxNews.com or Cnn.com to see provoking pictures of catholics at the Vatican, Brazil and around the world in prayer.
Bush and the First Lady are also praying for the Pontiff. Go to FoxNews.com or Cnn.com to see provoking pictures of catholics at the Vatican, Brazil and around the world in prayer.
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