Time To Think - Time

A Traveler, According to Thoreau

2008-09-10T07:43:00.000-07:00

A traveler. I love his title. A traveler is to be reverenced as such. His profession is the best symbol of our life. Going from–toward; it is the history of every one of us. –HENRY DAVID THOREAU, US writer and naturalist, 1817—62

Analogue to Digital...

2008-04-23T12:39:00.000-07:00

What's behind the February 2009 switch to digital broadcasting? Here's the scoop!

Since 911 emergency agencies have been challenged to come up with a better means of communication. In 2005 they did! The analogue channels you watch your television programs with will do nicely...for them and, coinkydinkly, for the television makers across the land who will undoubtedly benefit from the confusion this change is causing. Quite simply, the plan is to put all emergency services on the analogue channels so they can chat about murder and mayhem while the rest of us watch TV and get even more pleasantly plump.

If your set is analogue (picture rabbit-ears and/or metal coat-hanger antenna's) you're going to be needing a converter box - unless you already have cable service to your televisions (and if you do, go ahead and take down those metal thingys). If not, get your coupon and save a few bucks on this one...and get the coupon as soon as possible 'cause some experts are claiming there won't be enough to go around to the many television sets in people's homes across the land.

How do you get one?
Go to http://www.ntia.doc.gov/dtvcoupon/index.html read as much as you're interested in reading, or just click the big RED button on the upper right side of their screen and order a coupon for EACH (assuming you've limited yourself to TWO) set(s) in your humble abode/house/space/condo/apartment/hovel/cardboard box/corn field, whatever. The big RED button link will take you here (a secure site) https://www.dtv2009.gov/ to place your orders. Don't get all panicky, you can call the good folks too: Call for coupons:1-888-388-20091-888-DTV-2009

PLEASE NOTE: THESE COUPONS WILL EXPIRE AFTER NINETY (90) DAYS!

Okay, now let's address the big question here:

Do I need to buy an HDTV or a Plasma Big-screen TV? NO! ... And if you aren't a movie buff, or gamer, this television my not be right for you anyway; it's okay to say no (snicker).

There are some extra costs related to HD that you should know about before grabbing up that beautiful new piece of electronic wizardry. This should give you an idea:

Here's the fine print on Cox Communications website advertising the glories of HDTV services they provide - for a series of fees.
"Available to residential customers in Cox areas. Cox Basic service required for local HD channels. Cox Digital Cable and Expanded required for expanded HD channels. Digital Cable and paid subscription to Digital HBO, Starz, Showtime or a Cox Digital service level required for HBO HD, Cinemax HD, Starz HD, Showtime HD or other digital channels’ HD programming. An HDTV receiver or CableCard and an HDTV set required." Cox Communications
http://www.cox.com/DigitalCable/hdtv/ (Most definitely not an endorsement from me.)

Or you can have your HD in a dish:
https://www.dishpronto.com/ordernow.asp (Provided for information; certainly not an endorsement here either.)

***If you buy one of the wide-screen variety of televisions, you should be aware that most channels still broadcast in standard format, therefore, whenever you try to watch regular shows, your viewing screen will be reduced significantly by black bars all around (which can quickly turn your new 26" into a handy 13"), or you'll have to stretch the show to fit your screen which may cause unpleasant distortion, and constant whining from the resident peanut gallery.

This site will show you the breakdown of the aspect ratios more specifically. http://nwfolk.com/hdtv.html

So, now you know the whole scoop about the "new and improved" digital television and you can breathe easy, right? You get to keep your old television set no matter what! ...Lucky devil!

...I know, I know, I still want to get this "Sharp Aquos 65" LC65D64U 1080p LCD HDTV" http://accessories.us.dell.com/sna/products/Video_Conferencing/productdetail.aspx?c=us&l=en&s=dhs&cs=19&sku=A1303861 for my sweet hubby, I'm just afraid to call the number to find out how much it will cost me!

Have a Great Day Folks

Are Child Immunizations Really Safe & Effective?

2007-11-15T08:52:00.000-08:00

Have you ever wondered if childhood immunizations were necessary? Heard that there are people who are adamantly against allowing their children to be given immunizations? Here's a few links and opinions that may help you decide for yourself what is best for yourself and your children.

"My interest in vaccination arose out of a "gut" feeling not to do it that I have devoted a considerable part of my career trying to clarify. In this as in so many other ways, the study of homeopathy has helped me to articulate what my heart and soul already seemed to know. To recognize the organism as a totality of symptoms already implies that any more narrowly defined standards of vaccine effectiveness cannot possibly be adequate. Other glaring inconsistencies include enforcing compulsory vaccination laws in the absence of any public health emergency, and waiving the rules of scientific inquiry in their honor." Richard Moskowitz M.D.

Read more of this article at:
http://www.healthy.net/scr/article.asp?ID=1121

Want information from a variety of sources concerning specific vaccines? Visit this site:
http://www.nccn.net/~wwithin/vaccine.htm

Here are the CDC (Center for Disease Control) Guidelines for child immunizations:
http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/

Why vaccinate? According to the CDC (Center for Disease Control)

"It's much like bailing out a boat with a slow leak. When we started bailing, the boat was filled with water. But we have been bailing fast and hard, and now it is almost dry. We could say, "Good. The boat is dry now, so we can throw away the bucket and relax." But the leak hasn't stopped. Before long we'd notice a little water seeping in, and soon it might be back up to the same level as when we started." (More at: http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/vac-gen/why.htm )

Why be wary of vaccinations? According to Consumercide.com:
http://www.consumercide.com/vaccinepol.html

"Those who question the efficacy or safety of vaccines have long been stigmatised by proponents of conventional medical doctrine as subject to either some sort of mental deficit, or perhaps an unwarranted phobia, paranoid neurosis or an ulterior pecuniary interest. However, vaccine dissidents do seem to exist outside of the halls of institutions for the cognitively disabled. For example, famous medical critics of the twentieth century such as George Bernard Shaw, Robert Mendelsohn and Ivan Illich, all noted the widespread dogmatic acceptance of the fundamental tenets of modern medicine.

They drew the analogy between religion and medicine as they pronounced their hereticism to the latter. To them, the questioning of vaccine safety or efficacy could indeed be construed as “heretical” to the medical faith, but not without substantial cause.

Despite the constant historic presence of vaccine dissent from a few highly visible spokespersons, the weight of social acceptance of vaccine practice means that the enterprise of vaccine dissent is always an arduous one. Critics of vaccination are frequently stereotyped and stigmatised, as stated above. As is usual for partisans in scientific controversies, the predominant goal of the defending orthodoxy has been to make attributions regarding dissident claims as due to "non-scientific" factors, whilst they buttress their own claims as the 'real' and the only scientifically validated ones. " http://www.consumercide.com/vaccinepol.html

Vaccination - The Hidden Truth (SEE VIDEO)
"This is the shocking but extremely informative video documentary Vaccination - The Hidden Truth (1998) where fifteen people, including Dr. Viera Scheibner (a PhD researcher), five medical doctors, and other researchers, reveal what is really going on in relation to illness and vaccines. Ironically, the important facts come from orthodox medicine's own peer-reviewed research. With so much government and medical promotion of vaccination for prevention of disease, the video is clearly devoted to presenting the other side of the issue that parents and others are not being told. The result is a damning account of the ineffectiveness of vaccines and their often harmful effects." http://www.prisonplanet.com/archives/vaccines/index.htm (See Video made by medical professionals questioning effectiveness and safety of recommended vaccinations.)

Here is a great source for those contemplating immunization:
http://www.nvic.org/

I hope all of this information helps you make the critical decisions we all face concerning childhood immunizations.

Investing in Chinese Businesses = Support for Terrorists in Iran

2007-10-11T12:21:00.000-07:00

Seven Chinese Companies to Go Public in NYSE Next Year
"A vice president of New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) said recently that as many as seven Chinese companies have the intention of going public on NYSE next year, including China's largest fixed line operator China's Telecom, reported Hong Kong-based newspaper Wen Wui Po."
Continue reading this article here:
http://english.peopledaily.com.cn/english/200012/06/eng20001206_57044.html

Here's my ponderific questions for today...

China is a Communist country ...yup, it still is - Surprise! ...so when Americans invest in China's businesses and industries, does it not follow that they are financially supporting and benefiting from Communism?

While it is often stated, mainly by our U.S. President, that we are a Capitalist country, and people are offered many, and compelling, reasons to make money, not through hard work, but by properly investing, it is troubling that by lending money to (ie. investing in) a Chinese business, you do in fact become entangled with, and throw your support behind, the success of Communism for the sake of that loot!

Now, I know that ethics and morals have become passe to "smart" businessmen and women across the land, but as a personal investor, is it worth the fattening of your 401k to contribute to the successful continuation of a dictatorship? After all, you invest in companies you anticipate will succeed and bring you a windfall of cash as a result - meaning that you are hoping Communism will succeed!

Doesn't it even nag a little at one's conscience to know that the Chinese government is the actual majority owner (if hidden) of these so-called public Chinese businesses? If not, why not, for the sake of the almighty dollar, of course, invest in businesses owned and operated by Nazi's here in the United States like this group http://nazi.org/ ? They stand for the same ideals and have the same lofty goals as the Chinese government, after all, and that's worth investing in, right?

Here's a further point to consider: Who buys all that oil from Iran?

According to "The Joint Economic Committee Research Report #109-31 (March 2006)
Jim Saxton, Chairman, "Iran's Oil and Gas Wealth"
http://www.house.gov/jec/studies/rr109-31.pdf

"Japan and the People's Republic of China (PRC) together buy over one-third of Iran's exports."

This report further states that:

"In response to Iran's support of terrorists and pursuit of nuclear technology, the U.S. has banned investment and trade with Iran by executive order."

From this report, it seems abundantly clear that China is openly giving major monetary support, and doing great business with those who directly support terrorism. Didn't President Bush say we would hunt down and bring to justice anyone who did that? (How the heck do we get in on this lucrative venture?...Why, through the New York Stock Exchange, of course!)

Here's more data to mull over, compiled by the ever-watchful Heritage Foundation:

"Take China: Now perhaps the world's No. 4 economy, China is also the No. 2 energy consumer — scouring the globe for new energy sources to stoke a decade of double-digit economic growth. And Iran is now China's third-largest oil supplier.Moreover, China has invested nearly $100 billion in developing Iranian oil/gas fields. By some estimates, Iran will provide China with over 250 million tons of natural gas and 150,000 barrels of crude oil per day over the next 30 years.Plus, Iran buys Chinese conventional weapons, including anti-ship cruise missiles and anti-tank missiles — and technology and equipment for WMDs and ballistic missiles, such as missile control/guidance systems, chemical-weapon precursors and nuclear materials and technology.Iran is also a commercial cash cow for China. Chinese firms are building Tehran's billion-dollar subway system. And Beijing plans to invest over $200 million to help finance a new highway connecting Tehran to the Caspian Sea coast; other projects are in the works."
http://www.heritage.org/Press/Commentary/ed013006b.cfm

So, according to the White House, Iran supports terrorism and also supplies goods, services and oil to Communist China, who in turn, according to the Heritage Foundation researchers, provides Iran with weapons and nuclear technology...Um...hello? Investing in Chinese businesses through the NYSE constitutes support of terrorism - directly - according to that memorable post-911 presidential speech. ...Hey, if I could just get my morals out of the way, I'd invest in a heartbeat...but financially supporting Communism and Terrorism?...at the same time?...hmmmm....

Let's see if China has improved its governmental rule over its populace. Maybe that will make us all feel a little more at ease with the monster money we can get, if we give them some "seed money" for their businesses:
http://www.reuters.com/article/blogBurst/topNews?type=topNews&w1=B7ovpm21IaDoL40ZFnNfGe&w2=B9KobpniDQffCOR77fHrDXw&src=blogBurst_topNews&bbPostId=ABQQ4ZSKSZVBz9e2Rsv348wBCGcYu8x6xTSAIHB2dXTuCl&bbParentWidgetId=B7qp5dlHYnIr2YRoUoOjnxK

"China has 106 billionaires
That’s up from 15 last year (according to Bloomberg TV)
Barron’s reports (behind their subscription firewall) that more than a few of new Chinese stocks available on US markets were reverse splits into shell corporations, something which should immediately arouse suspicion. Many of these stocks are currently zooming upwards for no apparent reason, defying gravity, amid reports of financial irregularities."

...And who are the majority of these fantastically wealthy Chinese folks?...Now this is a shocker...
http://chinadigitaltimes.net/2006/11/90_percent_of_chinas_billionaires_are_children_of_senio.php

"According to a research report, 90 percent of China's billionaires are children of senior officials. There are about 2,900 senior officials' children in China, with total wealth amounting to two trillion yuan. Their businesses mainly cover 5 areas: finance, foreign trade, land development, large-scale projects, and bonds and securities. They either own their businesses or are senior managers in big companies" By Mo Ming (This article lists the ways their billions are made and most of the 9 ways listed are...uh...not so legit and above-board.)

Maybe the populace is doing better with this influx of money to the economy?

"The growing affluence in China, where 150 million people still live on less than $1 a day, according to the World Bank, illustrates the challenge of the nation's uneven growth."
http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601100&sid=a_TDRFAAr7.k&refer=germany

My Conclusion: Ugh...I don't feel any better at all!

Chinese business shares are being offered on the NY Stock Exchange, despite opaque business portfolios. The companies offering shares are owned (at least the majority of shares) by Communist Party Members and their children, who've made astronomical gains off of these reverse split, shell companies (which means front businesses, in case you were wondering). The Communist government continues to keep millions of their back-broken citizens with incomes under $1 per day, controls their media and marketplace. And last, but certainly most significant to me: China supports Iran's desire to fund, train and launch terrorists that will ultimately try to, or succeed in killing Americans and American Soldiers.

So, for these very troubling reasons, I ask you to have a peek at your stock portfolio, folks. Examine your financial goals and what you will stoop to to achieve them. China already has over fifty (50) companies that are currently traded in the NYSE, maybe you are providing a little support for Communism and Terrorism, in order to fatten that 401k or portfolio you plan to retire on.

Trust Your Gut

2007-09-19T05:52:00.000-07:00

Do you trust your gut feelings (instincts) implicitly? Do you know why you get them? Do you sometimes feel like there is something directing your life internally? That's a gut feeling!

Gut feelings protect us from harm, help us avoid and/or understand and resolve conflicts, and guide us toward the goals we are intended to meet. Ignore them at your own risk.

Examples of gut feelings:
Vague unease
Internal heavy feeling
Inability to concentrate
Crying for no clear reason
Hyperness without focus
Intense confusion or feeling of doom
Acute weariness
Fearfulness

Gut feelings are different for every individual and are fine-tuned to have the greatest impact on the person experiencing them. The problem is, a lot of people mistake the intensity of these feelings as depression and try to medicate them away. It is not possible to medicate yourself out of gut feelings. Medications do dull the senses, but gut feelings are more intense and powerful than moods, so they overcome medications quite easily.

When you have a decision to make, you might become very tired and lethargic, and want to sleep more than usual. This is your body's way of shutting down all peripheral activity so you can concentrate. It's a good thing! When your body is at rest and you are sleeping, the mind moves on into the future and can tell you what direction you are headed in. It is important to treat your body and mind well and not inhibit this communication. Medication should always remain a last resort and be prescribed by an uninvolved (in your life) professional who diagnosis you with depression.

Our brains do not operate like a computer. There is no limit to the number of processes our brains can carry out in a single day, all the while remaining acutely aware of our surroundings. Our brains are uniquely ours and operate only in our best interest. This means that your brain is the only thing you can trust completely...so trust it.

Writing out what you're feeling can help you clarify what messages your brain is sending you. If you are doing what is in your personal best interest, you will feel peaceful and positive about your future. If you are crossing yourself up, you'll see it in writing and you'll want to make changes.

When you follow your instincts, you'll feel an energy that makes you feel like you can conquer the world. That's because you are no longer fighting your own best interests and are moving in the right direction, opening the door for what is possible and closing the door on what no longer serves your best interest.

The greatest risk you face if you ignore your gut feelings is injury, illness and misery. These are not commonly at the top of most people's goal list and severely inhibit one's ability to cope with day to day decisions and activities. Injury, illness and misery do not make for good employees, good neighbors, or good parents, so if you're suffering, take a little time to address any gut feelings you might also be experiencing.

If your gut is telling you something today, write it down and sleep on it. These feelings often signal that change is coming - whether you like it or not - and give you an opportunity to deal with the emotions that accompany change. Give yourself the satisfaction that you've done something about that feeling and are open to hear whatever message your gut is sending.

You may find yourself quitting a job that's given you nothing but satisfaction, only to find yourself facing an opportunity of a lifetime that just "feels right". Doing what feels right brings rewards and peace of mind you will not be able to find until you've followed your heart. Holding on to what is, because you are afraid of what might be, only serves to prolong your misery and make necessary decisions more frightening.

Give yourself a break today and acknowledge your gut feelings. Write them down and have yourself a nice nap! You'll be surprised how well your brain knows you and how smart you really are!

Have a Great Day Folks!

Get to know the English Language!

2007-09-04T04:55:00.000-07:00

Think knowing English is an important facet of life in the United States? Are you sure you know it? Does correct spelling make any difference in regard to one's ability to read and fully comprehend what one has read? What about pronunciation of words?

Here's a new word that comes from the US Government SPP Office (these initials stand for Security and Prosperity Partnership of North America, by the by.)

http://www.spp.gov/myths_vs_facts.asp

Heads Up Kiddies! North America's Union was established in 2005 and is made up of three countries: The United States, Mexico and Canada.

2007 Montebello
“Our borders must be both efficient and secure if we are to continue to enhance prosperity, security and quality of life in North America. Effective border strategies minimize security risks, while facilitating the efficient and safe movement of goods, services and people, as trade and cross-border travel increase in North America. These strategies will draw on risk-based border management, innovative use of new technologies, coordinated border infrastructure development, and by moving, where possible, inspection and screening away from the land border. It is sometimes best to screen goods and travellers prior to entry into North America. We ask our ministers to develop mutually acceptable inspection protocols to detect threats to our security, such as from incoming travellers during a pandemic and from radiological devices on general aviation. We also ask our ministers to further cooperate in law enforcement, screening and facilitation of legitimate trade and travellers across our borders.”
Source: http://www.spp.gov/
Specific Quote: http://www.spp.gov/pdf/leaders_statement_2007_english.pdf

...I initially thought this relatively new government office had an issue with their spell-checker - Well Surprise, Surprise!

"Traveller" - Not a typo! (Go ahead, run it past your google spell-checker - it passes!) It may not be readily found in American English dictionaries, but the word is real and may be really important for American English speakers and readers to learn - and train their ears to hear.

"Irish Travellers distinguish themselves from the settled communities of the countries in which they live by their own language and customs. The language is known as Shelta, and there are two dialects of this language, Gammon (or Gamin) and Cant." http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Irish_Traveller

Also in Wikipedia.org, you'll find some amazing (coincidental, I'm sure) issues these "Travellers" and our illegal immigrant population in the US have in common. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Irish_Traveller#Cultural_suspicion_and_conflict

"Cultural suspicion and conflict
Irish Travellers are recognised in English law as an ethnic group [6]. The Republic of Ireland, however, does not recognise them as an ethnic group; rather, their legal status is that of a "social group" [7].
In Ireland and in Britain, Travellers are often referred to (offensively) as tinker or knacker. These terms refer to services that were traditionally provided by the Travellers: tinkering (or tinsmithing) being the mending of tin ware such as pots and pans, and knackering being the acquisition of dead or old horses for slaughter. Irish Travellers are sometimes referred to as Gypsies in Ireland and in Britain (the term, arguably offensive, more accurately refers to the Roma people, represented in Britain by the Romanichal and Kale). The derogatory terms pikey and gyppo (derived from Gypsy) are also heard in Great Britain whilst the term creamer is occasionally used in Ireland.
The Traveller lifestyle has often produced friction with local communities, especially in urban areas. Friction between Traveller and local community are typically attributed to allegations of increased crime following Traveller arrival in an area.
A recent report published in Ireland states that over half of travellers do not live past the age of 39 years."

Is it alright with you that the US Government slipped this word into their vocabulary without comment? Does it change the way you hear government officials present information about border issues with Mexico? Me thinks it should!

Want to see just how important this new word is to the government? Go to the White House website and type in this word "Travellers" in their search box. Reading the contents of the links on the page that comes up will certainly give you food for thought on the goals and future of America.

***Update...

It is now 2009, November 17 and here is a link you might find informative:
http://www.whitehouse.gov/blog/The-North-American-Leaders-Summit

It's not too late to start learning the English (North American) language.

Update 10-18-2011 The links in article refer to this finally located info.
http://www.thefreelibrary.com/Joint+Statement+Prime+Minister+Harper,+President+Bush+and+President...-a0167859613

Real Maturity...

2007-07-19T11:16:00.000-07:00

You know you're all grown up when you realize you have more questions than answers.

New Imigration Restriction News

2007-07-02T10:18:00.000-07:00

The following is an actual declaration made by President Bush regarding immigration.
http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2007/06/20070629-5.html

For Immediate Release Office of the Press Secretary
June 29, 2007

Suspension of Entry as Immigrants and Nonimmigrants of Persons Responsible for Policies and Actions That Threaten Lebanon's Sovereignty and Democracy A Proclamation by the President of the United States of America

White House News
In order to foster democratic institutions in Lebanon, to help the Lebanese people preserve their sovereignty and achieve their aspirations for democracy and regional stability, and to end the sponsorship of terrorism in Lebanon, it is in the interest of the United States to restrict the international travel, and to suspend the entry into the United States, as immigrants or nonimmigrants, of aliens who deliberately undermine or harm Lebanon's sovereignty, its legitimate government, or its democratic institutions, contribute to the breakdown in the rule of law in Lebanon, or benefit from policies or actions that do so, including through the sponsorship of terrorism, politically motivated violence and intimidation, or the reassertion of Syrian control in Lebanon.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of America, by the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, including section 212(f) of the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1952, 8 U.S.C. 1182(f), and section 301 of title 3, United States Code, hereby find that the unrestricted immigrant and nonimmigrant entry into the United States of persons described in section 1 of this proclamation would, except as provided for in sections 2 and 3 of this proclamation, be detrimental to the interests of the United States.

I therefore hereby proclaim that:

Section 1. The entry into the United States, as immigrants or nonimmigrants, of the following aliens is hereby suspended:

(a) Lebanese government officials, former Lebanese government officials, and private persons who deliberately undermine or harm Lebanon's sovereignty, its legitimate government, or its democratic institutions, or contribute to the breakdown in the rule of law in Lebanon, including through the sponsorship of terrorism, politically motivated violence or intimidation, or the reassertion of Syrian control in Lebanon;

(b) Syrian government officials, former Syrian government officials, and persons who meet the criteria for designation under section 3(a)(i) or (ii) of Executive Order 13338 of May 11, 2004, who deliberately undermine or harm Lebanon's sovereignty, its legitimate government, or its democratic institutions, or contribute to the breakdown in the rule of law in Lebanon, including through the sponsorship of terrorism, politically motivated violence or intimidation, or the reassertion of Syrian control in Lebanon;

(c) Persons in Lebanon who act on behalf of, or actively promote the interests of, Syrian government officials by deliberately undermining or harming Lebanon's sovereignty, its legitimate government, or its democratic institutions, or contribute to the breakdown in the rule of law in Lebanon, including through the sponsorship of terrorism, politically motivated violence or intimidation, or the reassertion of Syrian control in Lebanon;

(d) Persons who, through their business dealings with any of the persons described in subsection (a), (b), or (c) of this section, derive significant financial benefit from, or materially support, policies or actions that deliberately undermine or harm Lebanon's sovereignty, its legitimate government, or its democratic institutions, or contribute to the breakdown in the rule of law in Lebanon, including through the sponsorship of terrorism, politically motivated violence or intimidation, or the reassertion of Syrian control in Lebanon; and

(e) The spouses and dependent children of persons described in subsections (a), (b), (c), and (d) of this section.

Sec. 2. Section 1 of this proclamation shall not apply with respect to any person otherwise covered by section 1 where entry of such person would not be contrary to the interests of the United States.

Sec. 3. Persons covered by section 1 or 2 of this proclamation shall be identified by the Secretary of State or the Secretary's designee, in his or her sole discretion, pursuant to such procedures as the Secretary may establish under section 5 of this proclamation.

Sec. 4. Nothing in this proclamation shall be construed to derogate from U.S. Government obligations under applicable international agreements.

Sec. 5. The Secretary of State shall have responsibility for implementing this proclamation pursuant to such procedures as the Secretary, in the Secretary's sole discretion, may establish.

Sec. 6. This proclamation is effective immediately. It shall remain in effect until such time as the Secretary of State determines that it is no longer necessary and should be terminated, either in whole or in part. Any such determination by the Secretary of State shall be published in the Federal Register.

Sec. 7. This proclamation is not intended to, and does not, create any right, benefit, or privilege, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity, by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, instrumentalities, or entities, its officers or employees, or any other person.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty eighth day of June, in the year of our Lord two thousand seven, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-first.
GEORGE W. BUSH
# # #

What Did American Indians Do About Theft?

2007-06-29T06:39:00.000-07:00

At least one group of American Indians had a very simple solution for theft within their communities: They made the thief give back whatever he/she stole. ...How wonderfully uncomplicated and dignified of them!

This is one of the many things I find most fascinating about the history of American Indians. They had the ability to comprehend simplicity. They didn't over-complicate or over-analyze life - they lived it.

Dirt Poor, but Rich on Paper...

2007-06-20T08:36:00.000-07:00

"Dirt poor, but rich on paper"

Though no one really uses that phrase anymore, today, there are looots more folks who are learning just what this means - the hard way.

Inundated with offers that seem too good to be true, people have thrown out the concept of "You pay for what you get" and "Save it for a rainy day" and adopted "Put it on credit, that way you wont have to pay for it! ;)"

According to the US Federal Courts, bankruptcies are on the upswing...

"May 26, 2006 — The number of bankruptcy cases filed in federal courts rose 12.8 percent in the 12-month period ending March 31, 2006, according to statistics released today by the Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts. Bankruptcy cases totaled 1,794,795 for that period, compared to 1,590,975 bankruptcy cases filed in the 12-month period ending March 2005."
http://www.uscourts.gov/Press_Releases/bankruptcyfilings052606.html

...While the Bureau of Economic Analysis announce that personal income and savings are plummeting.

Personal outlays and personal saving

Personal outlays -- PCE, personal interest payments, and personal current transfer payments increased $55.2 billion in April, compared with an increase of $44.2 billion in March. PCE increased $52.0 billion, compared with an increase of $42.4 billion.

Personal saving -- DPI less personal outlays -- was a negative $132.8 billion in April, compared with a negative $67.8 billion in March. Personal saving as a percentage of disposable personal income was a negative 1.3 percent in April, compared with a negative 0.7 percent in March. Negative personal saving reflects personal outlays that exceed disposable personal income. Saving from current income may be near zero or negative when outlays are financed by borrowing (including borrowing financed through credit cards or home equity loans), by selling investments or other assets, or by using savings from previous periods. For more information, see the FAQs on"Personal Saving" on BEA's Web site. (For a comparison of personal saving in BEA's national income and product accounts with personal saving in the Federal Reserve Board's flow of funds accounts and data on changes in net worth (which help finance consumption), go to http://www.bea.gov/bea/dn/nipaweb/Nipa-Frb.asp.)
http://www.bea.gov/newsreleases/national/pi/pinewsrelease.htm

A little something to think about:

Historically, interdependency has gone a long way toward making the US a cohesive, and relatively peaceful, nation. While independence is most often spoken of as a source of national pride here, the fact is that when everybody owns a little piece of the pie, we're all in debt to someone; making us far more likely, than those who don't, to behave ourselves and feel like we have a vested interest in what goes on within our borders.

Things can, and have, gone way out of whack economically, since we were attacked on September 11th. There has been a significant amount of pressure put on Americans to buy a lot more than they can afford. People were brow-beaten by our very President to purchase a home, any home, just buy one quick. Americans flocked right out and did it.

The lenders, who in case you haven't heard yet, make more money from fees than loans, were ready for the masses. They wrote loans galore, to all people alike, regardless of income, ability to repay, or credit worthiness, while the real estate professionals touted every advantage of home ownership. The result?

Americans have amazing net worth on paper, but are in fact, in such tremendous debt that they cannot stop spending. Governments (state and federal) created new programs, and underwrote wild and wonderful loans to the poor and underemployed, and praised all who bought a little more than they could afford - hoping to "grow into" their debts - the masses gleefully racked up the debt. ...And a good time was had by all, right?

Well, maybe some did, but there sure are a bunch of folks, now, whose credit cards outnumber the dollar bills in their bank accounts. These same folks have debt that far outweighs their ability to reasonably repay in their lifetime...including their very homes (which were "virtually guaranteed to grow" investments), which they've begun to "give back" at almost the same pace as the home purchases, during the real estate boom.

Do I hear a fat woman singing?

While economists are second guessing what the outcome will be, I have already concluded, from a peek or two at history, that the masses will be just fine. Now, isn't that optimistic! Here's why...

A lot of people are caught up in a rip tide right now, dual income families are exhausted and pining for more time with their children, and homes are overflowing with all the things folks "need to have" to be a success, but there is no chance that millions of families will be evicted from their homes for failure to pay mortgages.

The value of money is fluid. It can be changed or nullified at any moment, we can even print more whenever we like...and we do!

If you are one of the many folks struggling to make ends meet, trying to keep your credit score from bottoming out and wishing you had more time to spend just living, take heart. You still live in America and there are many freedoms here. One of those wonderful freedoms is to make financial missteps, cut your losses and start fresh.

Don't allow anyone trick you into thinking your life is less important than your cash flow, or lack thereof. Force yourself to think like the government. Here are the steps you can take to take back your life:

1) Stop checking your credit report. Government workers do not pine away over their ratings with the public. They have a job to do and they leave it to political opponents, poll takers and score keepers worry about their numbers.

Knowing your credit score and watching it for any signal that something has diminished, or raised it, is really quite meaningless.

The truth is, you already know if you pay your bills on time. You know whether you've defaulted on a loan. You know if you are consistent in your debt/bill payments. Why do you need a number to go with all that knowledge?

When you know you'll be needing to take out a loan, go and apply for one and see what happens. If you are denied the loan, the three credit reporting companies will be required to show you why - then you can worry about correcting or accepting their records.

Daily, monthly or annual checking only costs you money you should be spending elsewhere...Wouldn't you really rather have a new pair of shoes than an ulcer?

2) Stop your direct deposit and start paying cash for your purchases - for at least three months. (I know, I know, it's terribly uncool sounding...just do your shopping on the other side of town where folks don't know you. ;) Oh, and make sure you deposit enough to cover any direct draft payments you have scheduled.)

It is convenient to have one's check automatically deposited into one's bank account, but there is a hidden cost: When you work for a living, you need to see and hold what you've earned. When you hold your money in your hand and you see it disappear into various cash registers around town, you're very clear when you've run out. You cannot continue to spend because you can see and feel the emptiness where your money used to be.

(This saves people many hundreds of dollars a year in overdraft fees alone. Plus, staring at your paychecks will help you clear up the confusion over what your job is worth, which can help you decide when it's no longer useful to maintain employment and when it's time to look for that second or third job.)

By the third month, you will know almost exactly how many days your check is going to last, which will allow you to set reasonable spending limits for your household and make changes that will stretch your money a lot further.
*No credit card use during this time period.

3) When you have an urge to spend time with your family, do it. If your boss doesn't like it, deal with the consequences.

Many people assume that giving up today what time you could spend with your family is necessary and will pay off tomorrow, but a quick check of nursing homes and child care facilities will tell even the most casual observer that this simply isn't true. Time marches at a quick pace.

Some elderly folks can tell you how insignificant jobs, homes and cars really were when they realized they'd spent their lives collecting them, often putting off time with family to do so, only to find that there was no one around when they finally did have all the things they wanted. Sadly, once they've been deposited in a nursing home, there is no house to live in, car to drive, or job to fill one's time with.

Children in day care facilities (particularly on a surprise visit) will show you all the coping mechanisms they use to get through the many hours they face each day, unprotected and unnoticed by the parents who are charged with raising them. They spend their days trying to live like adults and their evenings listening to their parents talk about how much they hate their jobs and need more money.

These two groups of rejected humans unequivocally express how little they care about the material things in life. Both groups really wish they had a family who put their desire for material things just a little further down on the priority list than spending time with them.

*Special tip to those considering divorcing a mate because of financial difficulties - Make sure you carefully examine your reasons for divorcing before you file. If your basic problems indeed stem from disagreements about money or financial stress, change the emphasis you've placed on money first.

Money and finances (yes, even financial difficulties) will always be a part of life, no matter who you share yours with. You are a contributor to the problems you and your mate face, whether you can see it or not, and while you may be able to avoid the repercussions of your bad decisions in the short run, by divorcing your mate, you will have given up something far more rewarding and wonderful - your mate.

Change your perspective, give yourself and your mate the privilege of behaving, financially, just like any government entity does...They never seem to manage their money, they have unimaginable debt and they don't shed any tears over it. They simply put their heads together and giggle, quietly.

Keep your chins up, folks! Have a good laugh, learn how to shrug and keep your family on the top of your priority list!

Americans are Scared Stiff!

2007-06-15T06:36:00.000-07:00

The Medical and pharmaceutical industries have finally succeeded in scaring Americans stiff! How profitable for them! Once, the most up and coming industrial nation, we are now a frightened, well-padded, nation of consumers. We consume everything we see and we're fat - go figure?

Have you noticed that doctors and pharmaceutical professionals only remind us mere mortals that they are "only human" when they cause someone serious injury or death? Doesn't that seem just a tad strange, since they are the same folks who adopted the term "non-compliant" to label people who choose not to follow their advice?

Do you realize what non-compliant means? It means: The failure or refusal to comply: the failure or refusal to conform and adapt one's actions to a rule or to necessity.
http://www.medterms.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=10159

The presumption here is not ambiguous. It is frighteningly clear that the medical community believes itself infallible. When they encounter free will, they label it non-compliance and can take whatever steps they deem necessary to enforce their will - at times, with the government's backing.

This being the case, how are these two groups able to defend themselves in malpractice lawsuits? How are they able to claim fallible human status when it suits them, but absolute authority at all other times?

Answer: Because we let them!

Americans are going to have to develop a better attitude toward their physical and mental well- being. To allow any group of people to take this kind of power away from the people is bizarre and not at all in line with a nation that prides itself on democracy and freedom.

What does democracy mean?
"... The principles of democracy emphasize the importance of the individual in the context of government. ... http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Democracy

What does freedom mean?
"Simply put, freedom is the absence of government coercion. Our Founding Fathers understood this, and created the least coercive government in the history of the world. The Constitution established a very limited, decentralized government to provide national defense and little else. States, not the federal government, were charged with protecting individuals against criminal force and fraud. For the first time, a government was created solely to protect the rights, liberties, and property of its citizens. Any government coercion beyond that necessary to secure those rights was forbidden, both through the Bill of Rights and the doctrine of strictly enumerated powers. This reflected the founders’ belief that democratic government could be as tyrannical as any King." http://www.house.gov/paul/tst/tst2005/tst020705.htm

In our country today, the government requires that we attribute individual beliefs, if they are contrary to a medical professionals opinion, to a religious belief, in order to avoid use of force, by our government, to gain our compliance. It is not enough, anymore, for an individual to make an independent decision and have the same protection from the government that the medical profession enjoys.

This is the case in refusal to permit blood transfusions for our children...though we know that the blood offered is sometimes rejected (resulting in death), or contaminated (potentially causing serious illness and/or death). We are not permitted to end our own lives when we see fit (if we attempt and fail, we can be charged with a crime and imprisoned). We cannot refuse medication if we are deemed to suffer certain illnesses, even though the drugs prescribed have been shown to reduce the quality of life significantly, if not result in suicide, or death.

It is through sheer laziness of body, mind and spirit that we find ourselves governed by the medical and pharmaceutical industries. Americans are fat and sickly because we, collectively, attempted to shirk our personal responsibilities. Through our own refusal to think for ourselves and defend one another's right to do the same, we find ourselves clinging to our medicine cabinets for dear life; convinced, and berating others to be the same, that someone, anyone, else knows better than we do what is right and good for us.

Everyone knows that the human body is a marvel. We know that no one in any profession, regardless of "expert" status, has ever created one. We know that the body has functions that are directly affected by physical inactivity and use of drugs. It is time for our nation to adopt the belief that one's decisions concerning their own bodies are protected individual rights. It's time to put a stop to those who seek to take away our most personal freedoms to suit their ideas of good and proper health.

It has never been required that a majority of people agree with anyone's decisions regarding their personal health, or lack thereof, until now. People with sheep-like mentality have been used and manipulated by the medical and pharmaceutical industries to do nothing more than make them more money and us more ill. Even sheep must get tired of following, though, because at least one got away in NY the other day, when he was just that close to the slaughter!

Here are the real steps to wellness:

Get up today. Go outside and do something. Any activity will make you feel better than none. Do your own research and demand the right to form your own conclusions. Refuse to support any more laws that would give more latitude to these industries over your personal health decisions.

The major leap toward real wellness of mind, body and spirit, is refusing to believe, without question, those who would convince you that your body is too complex a machine for you to operate unsupervised. If it were truly so, we wouldn't even be here on earth.

Use the medical professionals when you need them, stop allowing them to use our government to impose their will on all of us!

Thank Heavens Paris Is Home!

2007-06-07T07:52:00.000-07:00

I am so glad to hear that Paris Hilton is back at home again - to serve forty days house arrest - I can't stand it!

While the media and pseudo-news outlets were busy covering her panty selection and skin care product allowances, the world was marching on...

- North Korea fired off a few short-range missiles - just a test.

- The Nasdaq obtained a significant foothold in the European marketplace by finally making a deal to purchase OMX, the operator of seven Nordic and Baltic exchanges.

- Some more troops lost their lives in Iraq

- Russia announced that they will not participate in joint lunar exploration with NASA (who, by the by, just sent their resident space-playboy Bill Oefelein back to the Navy, following the upset, between his girlfriend and his other girlfriend, that may land one of these two "professional" ladies to serve 25 years in prison and the other in a court martial hearing).

- And the Pentagon has said that China is modernizing their military in a way that would enable them to launch attacks (surprise) far outside their borders.

I'm guessing that the Hilton incident is not yet deemed un-newsworthy, despite this anticlimactic ending of her probation violation saga....but I keep hoping!

Happy Memorial Day

2007-05-28T05:36:00.000-07:00

Happy Memorial Day

Today we celebrate the lives of current and former soldiers, and their families. Many will go to ceremonies to commemorate those who've lost their lives fighting for our freedom and many others will take this opportunity to spend time with their families, enjoying those wonderful freedoms in our beautiful country. In both of these ways, we show our thankfulness for their sacrifices. God bless our troops and God bless the USA!

Alec Baldwin is a Dream Daddy!

2007-05-17T11:50:00.001-07:00

Why, he's every girls dream daddy, Alec Baldwin is! Yes, he sounds a little irritable in the phone message, but cut the guy some slack, he says his daughter's a pig, why shouldn't we take his word for it? ...What a valuable lesson she has undoubtedly learned from this experience: When in doubt, attack! There is no real value in holding back, for the sake of the future, what's on one's mind today!

Apparently he wasn't the only one who thought she wasn't worth the time it took to bed down her mother and that special someone made her loving father's comments to her public. This is where the media was able to step in and create another invaluable learning opportunity for this dear child. They were able to exploit this tender moment and make a little money off her back! Kudos to the media!

As for Alec becoming a spokesperson for alienated fathers of the world, I'm sure we could find some better candidates to launch that series of books. Maybe we could get OJ to write one, between gigs, after all, he didn't actually lay a hand on his kids either. By the time he's finished, Alec may have found the free time to pen out a few more pieces of his mind for his daughter to cherish.

*Note to alienated fathers: Screaming at your disaffected child probably isn't the way to foster a closer relationship with them. ;)

The Ponderfully Beautiful

2007-05-15T07:02:00.000-07:00

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/6020616/displaymode/1107/s/2/

Click on the above link to see stunning photos!

You Can't Sue the Police!

2007-04-30T16:52:00.000-07:00

The U.S. Supreme Court posted this video on their website (Click on link below to see two officer's in-car camera recordings of the high-speed chase that led a suspect to crash and become paralyzed.) to help the public understand why they have ruled 8:1 that a fleeing suspect, involving him/herself in a high-speed chase with police, cannot then sue the police for injuries they sustain - even if they are killed - in Civil Court.

http://www.supremecourtus.gov/opinions/video/scott_v_harris.rmvb

What a wonderful thing! It's about time!

It is clear, from the video, that many lives were jeopardized, on that rainy night in Georgia, by the loser who decided to run from police. It is also stunningly clear that the officers involved conducted themselves most admirably and responsibly throughout the incident. This jerk was very fortunate to have survived and should never have been allowed to sue anyone for his injuries, let alone the very cop he tried to kill that night.

Filler in Animal Feed Is Open Secret...

2007-04-30T11:06:00.000-07:00

New York Times (April 30, 2007)
by David Barboza and Alexei Barrionvueno

"For years, producers of animal feed all over China have secretly supplemented their feed with the substance, called melamine, a cheap additive that looks like protein in tests, even though it does not provide any nutritional benefits, according to melamine scrap traders and agricultural workers here."

Read the whole article and see a photo of melamine here:
http://www.nytimes.com/2007/04/30/business/worldbusiness/30food.html?em&ex=1178078400&en=7ad19856687df98a&ei=5087%0A

For any bird, fish, cat or dog owner, this is important to know!

Before you buy any more pet food for your beloved pet, you need to decide whether the average plant worker from China cares as much about your pet's health and well-being as you do. Depending on recalls to determine the safety of your pet's food may not be a terribly effective strategy anymore.

What is melamine? "Aside from common commercial uses, melamine became a topic of much discussion in early 2007, when veterinary scientists determined it to be the cause of hundreds of pet deaths, because of pet food contamination. Prior to these reports, melamine had been regarded as non-toxic or minimally toxic. However, because of the unexplained presence of melamine in wheat gluten added to mass-produced dog and cat foods, it is the most likely cause. Pet owners report symptoms that are commonly associated with renal failure, which could be explained by the ammonia that may result from the digestion of the melamine." http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-melamine.htm

So, if importing our food from China means we risk killing our beloved pets - and poor people who eat the same food Fido does - what are we to do? Isn't the risk worth the savings we enjoy?

Ponderful Thoughts...

2007-04-27T14:42:00.000-07:00

http://www.freemoneyfinance.com/2007/04/can_we_please_h.html

If you have a few dozen hours to spare, or even just a moment, this blog has an incredible amount of information regarding personal finances! The articles are interesting, well written and concise. I have no doubts that all my readers can pick up a tip, or twenty, here! Why not have a peek?

Today's Ponderful Thought

2007-04-23T04:08:00.000-07:00

Women, Abuse and Crime...How To Stop the Cycle!

I cannot recall even a single case in my lifetime wherein a woman was charged with a crime and didn't claim innocence based on having been coerced, threatened or abused by a man, at some point in her life, causing her not to be able to discern right (or lawful) action from wrong. (And if her claim is that a woman abused her, that woman will most certainly report that she only perpetrated the abuse at the bidding, or under the influence, of a man.) The cycle is most vicious!

Since it is so widely held that women are, from birth, wholly incapable of internally or externally accepting any responsibility for their actions, isn't it terribly cruel that we send them to prisons just like ones we send men to? Isn't that the height of gender inequity, the equivalent of punishing mentally incapacitated people - which amounts to outright cruelty?

Obviously, men who make such claims of abuse are just opportunists trying to avoid punishment for their crimes, but women really are helpless, hapless, victims of not only men, but the abusive court system that punishes them for what men make them do.

With more careful scrutiny of young men, I believe we can get to a point where women are free from this double-abuse system of injustice. If we could identify those males who display any sort of magnetism or influence over female children and/or female adults around them, by four years of age, we could institutionalize them right away and thereby allow people to live freely, and safely, in society.

Men will undoubtedly balk at the suggestion that they should be imprisoned prior to actually causing a woman to commit a crime, but if we really want to eradicate violence in our society it is quite clear that this is the answer to the problem. It will, in fact, save a lot of men's lives, making it in their best interest that we take this fresh approach. Just like in the war on drugs, it is ineffectual to do anything but destroy the source of the evil, and in this case, as with the drug war, the evil source is clearly men.

For over two decades the US has tried to fix the problem by putting the burden of reform on the victims of these men, thinking that they would somehow rise up and fight against men's evil influence, all the while knowing that women are not, by their very nature, mentally or emotionally sophisticated enough to fight such a thing. Pure silliness!

Now it is time to address the source of the problem - the evil and influential men who will, if left to come of age in freedom as they do now, corrupt these innately innocent, helpless, paragons of purity and beauty. Women's prisons are a blatant sign that the US Criminal Justice System is in dire need of reform. We must stop blaming victims and take a tougher stance on crime prevention!

A Little Proof for the Pudding...
http://www.schr.org/prisonsjails/news/Tutwiler/news_tutwiler35bham.htm
"Convicts serving time for violent crimes have lower recidivism rates than property and drug offenders, said Cynthia Dillard, assistant executive director of the Alabama Board of Pardons and Parole. "Especially the homicides, especially females. They usually kill or hurt their significant other. When that person is out of the way, their perceived problem is out of the way.""

http://commentisfree.guardian.co.uk/frances_crook/2006/08/close_down_womens_prisons.html
"The Howard League for Penal Reform, of which I am director, today launches a new Prison Information Bulletin (pdf) on women and girls in the penal system, calling on the government to start a programme of closures of women's prisons, and a transfer of resources to community programmes and treatment facilities that tackle women's needs and reduce re-offending."

http://www.thenation.com/doc/20040412/tuhusdubrow
"Who are these female convicts? Outside of Quentin Tarantino films, women who set out to go on bloody rampages are exceedingly rare. The far more typical female inmate is an addict who starts using drugs to deal with the trauma of childhood abuse and turns a few tricks to support her habit. Or the pawn who unwittingly gets caught serving as a "mule" in a drug deal. Or the abused partner who fires the household gun in desperation in a final fight. Indeed, female convicts across the board report alarming rates of abuse: in 1999, the federal government found that close to sixty percent of all women in state prisons nationwide suffered abusive histories."

Ponderful Thought...

2007-04-20T10:17:00.000-07:00

Why does laying on one's back after a filling meal make it hard to breathe? It's not like your stomach sits on top of your lungs.

Ponderful Thoughts...

2007-04-19T15:02:00.000-07:00

Ponderful Thought for the day...

Why are chickens not brown or yellow? They eat grain and corn don't they?