A Pennsylvania judge -- who is a convert to Islam -- recently dismissed an assault case involving a Muslim man who attacked an atheist for insulting the Prophet Muhammad.
The judge's decision to dismiss the case has outraged a plethora of freedom of speech proponents, legal experts, and others -- many of whom are calling for the judge to be fired.
Some legal experts also believe that this case demonstrates how Sharia (Islamic law) is beginning to creep into the United States' legal system.
The incident occurred last year in Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania when an atheist -- dressed as "Zombie Muhammad" for a halloween parade -- was attacked by the Muslim man.
The Muslim man said he felt he had to do something because of the insult to his religion. He was arrested and charged with assault by police.
In dismissing the case, the judge said the Muslim was simply defending his "culture." Moreover, the judge said the Muslim was "obligated to attack the victim because of his culture and religion."
The fact is that the Islamic judge in this case was allowing his own personal religious preference to prevail over the American system of justice. Indeed, his decision to dismiss the case was based more on Sharia than on American constitutional law.
In the United States, our justice system does not justify an "obligated assault" on an individual for insulting a religion, although this may well be the case in a predominantly Islamic nation.
Consequently, it is our sincere belief that this judge must be terminated, because of his inability -- or his refusal -- to be objective and to abide by the American process of jurisprudence.
Wednesday, February 29, 2012
Republican Congress Candidate Denies Holocaust; Says It's "an Intl. Extortion Racket by the Jews"
The Huffington Post website reports today (February 29, 2012) that a congressional candidate -- running as a Republican in the upcoming Illinois primary -- says "the Holocaust never happened."
Arthur Jones, 64, a Lyons, Illinois insurance salesman who organizes family-friendly neo-Nazi events around Adolf Hitler's birthday, hopes to be the Republican candidate chosen to run against Democratic Congressman Dan Lipinski in Illinois' 3rd Congressional District.
"As far as I'm concerned, the Holocaust is nothing more than an international extortion racket by the Jews," Jones said.
He added, "It's the blackest lie in history. Millions of dollars are being made by Jews telling this tale of woe and misfortune in books, movies, plays, and TV."
Arthur Jones, 64, a Lyons, Illinois insurance salesman who organizes family-friendly neo-Nazi events around Adolf Hitler's birthday, hopes to be the Republican candidate chosen to run against Democratic Congressman Dan Lipinski in Illinois' 3rd Congressional District.
"As far as I'm concerned, the Holocaust is nothing more than an international extortion racket by the Jews," Jones said.
He added, "It's the blackest lie in history. Millions of dollars are being made by Jews telling this tale of woe and misfortune in books, movies, plays, and TV."
US Mosques Increase by 74 % in Past Decade; Growth Reflects Better Fin. Status of US Muslims
The Mercury News (California) website reports today (February 29, 2012) that the number of American mosques grew by 74 percent in the past decade -- with a large number being built in the suburbs -- according to a national survey of a coalition of Muslim groups.
The 2011 U.S. Mosque Survey counted 2,106 mosques in the United States, with 246 of them in California.
"The building boom is indicative of the growing financial resources of the Muslim community, as many Muslims have lived in the U.S. for many decades now, and their financial resources have improved," wrote study author Ihsan Bagby, an associate professor of Islamic studies at the University of Kentucky.
Although the Muslim population in America has increased in recent years, it remains a small fraction of the total population. Valid research indicates that there are about two million Muslims -- or about 0.5 percent of America's total population -- who live in the U.S.
The 2011 U.S. Mosque Survey counted 2,106 mosques in the United States, with 246 of them in California.
"The building boom is indicative of the growing financial resources of the Muslim community, as many Muslims have lived in the U.S. for many decades now, and their financial resources have improved," wrote study author Ihsan Bagby, an associate professor of Islamic studies at the University of Kentucky.
Although the Muslim population in America has increased in recent years, it remains a small fraction of the total population. Valid research indicates that there are about two million Muslims -- or about 0.5 percent of America's total population -- who live in the U.S.
Tuesday, February 28, 2012
Israel Will Attack Iran without Warning the US; Knows US Would Try to Discourage Attack on Iran
The Newser website reports today (February 28, 2012) that when Israel attacks Iran -- and it does plan to attack Iran within the next few months -- it will not warn the United States first, according to an American intelligence official.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Ehud Barak have been quietly telling every American official who has recently visited Israel that the U.S. will not be told of an Israeli attack.
The U.S. is desperately -- but unsuccessfully -- trying to talk Israel out of such an attack, arguing it would only amount to little more than a temporary setback for Iran's nuclear ambitions.
On the other hand, Israel believes that such an attack will have a significant impact in destroying Iran's nuclear facilities. Israel is also convinced that if it gives the U.S. advanced warning of an attack on Iran, the U.S. will do everything it can to discourage it.
Some political analysts believe that the real reason that the U.S. is discouraging an attack on a nuclear-threatening Iran is because such an attack by Israel -- America's closest ally in the Middle East -- could result in a Mideast war and a loss of many votes for President Obama in his bid to be re-elected president this year.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Ehud Barak have been quietly telling every American official who has recently visited Israel that the U.S. will not be told of an Israeli attack.
The U.S. is desperately -- but unsuccessfully -- trying to talk Israel out of such an attack, arguing it would only amount to little more than a temporary setback for Iran's nuclear ambitions.
On the other hand, Israel believes that such an attack will have a significant impact in destroying Iran's nuclear facilities. Israel is also convinced that if it gives the U.S. advanced warning of an attack on Iran, the U.S. will do everything it can to discourage it.
Some political analysts believe that the real reason that the U.S. is discouraging an attack on a nuclear-threatening Iran is because such an attack by Israel -- America's closest ally in the Middle East -- could result in a Mideast war and a loss of many votes for President Obama in his bid to be re-elected president this year.
Several Call for Penn. Muslim Judge to Be Fired; Mark Martin Threw Out Assault Case against Muslim
The One News Now website reports today (February 28, 2012) that a legal expert, a former Navy chaplain, and a pro-family leader are among many people who agree that Pennsylvania judge Mark Martin -- a convert to Islam -- should be removed from the bench for throwing out an assault case lodged against a Muslim who attacked an atheist dressed as a zombie Mohammad at a halloween parade last year.
The incident -- recorded on video -- occurred on October 11, 2011 at the Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania Halloween Parade. Ernie Pierce -- an atheist -- was attacked by Talaag Elbayomy, because of Pierce's costume.
Judge Martin threw out video evidence of the assault, dismissed the testimony of an eyewitness officer, and then lectured the atheist victim about the sensitivities of the Muslim culture.
In fact, Judge Martin stated in court that as a Muslim, Elbayomy was "obligated to attack the victim because of his culture and religion."
The incident -- recorded on video -- occurred on October 11, 2011 at the Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania Halloween Parade. Ernie Pierce -- an atheist -- was attacked by Talaag Elbayomy, because of Pierce's costume.
Judge Martin threw out video evidence of the assault, dismissed the testimony of an eyewitness officer, and then lectured the atheist victim about the sensitivities of the Muslim culture.
In fact, Judge Martin stated in court that as a Muslim, Elbayomy was "obligated to attack the victim because of his culture and religion."
Scarecrow Snapshot
I'd like to have met this fellow.
See his brother at rest HERE.
Anonymous Snapshot circa 1940 Scarecrow Collection Jim Linderman
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American Library Association Newsletter Mentions Dull Tool Dim Bulb
American Library Association Newsletter mentions Dull Tool Dim Bulb
Every morning Jim Linderman gets up in his home in Grand Haven, Michigan, grabs a cup of coffee, and sits down at his computer to blog. A former librarian and archivist, Linderman collects, researches, and writes about the marginal, the forgotten, and the not quite seemly in American folk art and popular culture. In his three blogs—Dull Tool Dim Bulb, Old Time Religion, and Vintage Sleaze—Linderman also discloses an underground history of American popular culture, one oddball tale at a time....
New York Times, Feb. 9
(American Library Association e- Newsletter February 15, 2012.
THANK YOU TO STEPHANIE ZIMBLE FOR POINTING OUT THE STORY!
Study: Rich People More Unethical Than Poor People; Result of Upper-Class People's Tolerance of Greed
The Global Post website reports today (February 28, 2012) that -- based on the findings of a new study -- rich people are more unethical and likely to cheat, break the law, and behave badly towards other people.
Researchers from the universities of California and Toronto found that wealthier people are more apt to behave unethically than those who had less money.
The study contradicted the notion that poor people are more likely to act unethically out of financial necessity.
The authors of the study said that the differences in ethical behavior could be explained -- at least in part -- by the upper-class participants' more favorable attitude toward greed. A well-known example of the desire for greed is the modus operandi used by ponzi scheme operator Bernie Madoff -- now in prison with no possible parole -- who cheated scores of people out of more than a billion dollars.
Researchers from the universities of California and Toronto found that wealthier people are more apt to behave unethically than those who had less money.
The study contradicted the notion that poor people are more likely to act unethically out of financial necessity.
The authors of the study said that the differences in ethical behavior could be explained -- at least in part -- by the upper-class participants' more favorable attitude toward greed. A well-known example of the desire for greed is the modus operandi used by ponzi scheme operator Bernie Madoff -- now in prison with no possible parole -- who cheated scores of people out of more than a billion dollars.
My Hero: Chairil Anwar
Sebelumnya, saya sudah berjanji pada diri sendiri untuk menulis sesuatu yang tidak melulu review film. Jadi kali ini saya ingin bercerita tentang pahlawan dalam hidup saya.
Pertama kali saya memiliki tokoh idola adalah pada usia dua belas tahun. Seiring bertambahnya usia, tokoh idola saya juga bertambah. Salah satu di antaranya adalah Chairil Anwar.
Saya pertama kali mengetahui tentang Chairil Anwar dari pelajaran Bahasa dan Sastera Indonesia sewaktu SMP dulu. Berhubung saya bukan pecinta pantun dan tidak pandai membuatnya, saya bersyukur sekali di dunia ini pernah hidup seorang Chairil Anwar. Kalau tidak, jangan-jangan wajah puisi di Indonesia masih bersajak a-b-a-b. Chairil memang pelopor angkatan '45 di bidang sastera, khususnya puisi. Chairil yang memperkenalkan puisi bebas yang tidak terikat rima dan jumlah baris dalam satu bait. Saat membaca biografi dari penyair yang hari kematiannya diperingati sebagai hari sastera ini, saya mengetahui bahwa dia memiliki hobi membaca. Karena kesukaannya akan buku, Chairil bahkan tidak segan untuk mencurinya dari perpustakaan atau toko buku jika dia tidak sanggup membeli buku tersebut. Chairil memang sering kesulitan dalam masalah finansial. Meski Chairil bukan klepto dan saya juga tidak menyetujui tindakannya, tapi kecintaannya akan buku, jelas patut ditiru. Chairil adalah sosok penyair yang saya cintai puisi-puisinya (termasuk puisi-puisi sadurannya yang membuat Chairil menyandang cap plagiat yang dieufemismekan sebagai penerjemah dalam film GIE), tekadnya dan pilihan hidupnya yang (ceroboh?). Gaya hidupnya yang bohemian mungkin menjadi salah satu penyebab mengapa Chairil meninggal dalam usia muda.
Namun saya mengagumi tekadnya untuk merantau dalam usia muda dengan meninggalkan keluarga intinya. Chairil juga menguasai beberapa bahasa asing, di antaranya bahasa Belanda. Puisi-puisinya konon juga disukai meski pada masa pendudukan Jepang di Indonesia yang memberlakukan sensor yang cukup ketat.
* Gambar dipinjam dari Wikipedia.
Monday, February 27, 2012
Trip to the Moon
Saturday night the Aero theatre in Santa Monica was host to a sold-out screening, the restored Melies TRIP TO THE MOON in colour! It was accompanied by the documentary THE EXTRAORDINARY VOYAGE about Melies' 1902 film and it's recent restoration. After a decayed colour print was discovered, it took 10 years tp painstakingly restore it. Interest in George Melies has increased with Martin Scorcese's HUGO. Reaching the Moon has been an ever-present fantasy of humans, achieved only briefly in 1969-71. The Moon is a universal goal--what sort of fools would deny it?
Two Terror Suspects Arrested by FBI in Kentucky; Plotted to Ship Weapons and Money to Al-Qaida
The Daily Mail (British) website reports today (February 27, 2012) that a terror suspect -- who settled in Kentucky as a refugee -- bragged about his insurgent past, as he plotted to ship weapons and money to Al-Qaida in Baghdad, according to the FBI.
A search warrant application detailed how 24-year-old Mohanad Hammadi and co-conspirator 30-year-old Waad Alwan schemed with an informant from late 2009 through early summer 2011 in Bowling Green, Kentucky.
The document showed how the two Muslim men acquired what they thought were working weapons -- including rocket-propelled grenade launchers, C4 explosives, and Russian-made surface-to-air missiles -- and allegedly plotted to ship them and financial aid to Al-Qaida in Iraq.
Hammadi faces 12 charges, including perjury and attempting to send material support to a known terrorist organization. Alwan pleaded guilty to 23 terrorism-related charges in December and is to be sentenced April 3.
A search warrant application detailed how 24-year-old Mohanad Hammadi and co-conspirator 30-year-old Waad Alwan schemed with an informant from late 2009 through early summer 2011 in Bowling Green, Kentucky.
The document showed how the two Muslim men acquired what they thought were working weapons -- including rocket-propelled grenade launchers, C4 explosives, and Russian-made surface-to-air missiles -- and allegedly plotted to ship them and financial aid to Al-Qaida in Iraq.
Hammadi faces 12 charges, including perjury and attempting to send material support to a known terrorist organization. Alwan pleaded guilty to 23 terrorism-related charges in December and is to be sentenced April 3.
African-American Yard Art "Does Nothing" Press Photo Collection Jim Linderman
African-American Yard Art "Does Nothing" while being great.
See also HERE
Irving Keene construction, December 1956 Original photograph by Robert H. Burgess Press Photo Collection of Jim Linderman
Also of note In Situ: American Folk Art in Place by Jim Linderman
Austrian Worshipers Place Ad in Paper for Priest; Diocese Has No Replacement for Departing Priest
The Austrian Times website reports today (February 27, 2012) that frustrated churchgoers in an Austrian town have put an advertisement in a paper for a new Catholic priest, after the Linz diocese failed to find a replacement for the current priest who is moving to another area.
The ad says that people in Scharding, Austria are looking for a qualified priest to manage the 3,600 souls in the community, and duties include spiritual management, and holding mass.
The ad was placed by villager Christoph Crepaz in the job section of the local newspaper and includes mention of the very good financial position of the community.
Linz diocese spokesman Martin Fureder said it was the first time that a job ad for a priest had been placed in a newspaper. But he praised the fact that locals felt strongly enough about the matter to try to encourage and aid the search for a replacement.
The ad says that people in Scharding, Austria are looking for a qualified priest to manage the 3,600 souls in the community, and duties include spiritual management, and holding mass.
The ad was placed by villager Christoph Crepaz in the job section of the local newspaper and includes mention of the very good financial position of the community.
Linz diocese spokesman Martin Fureder said it was the first time that a job ad for a priest had been placed in a newspaper. But he praised the fact that locals felt strongly enough about the matter to try to encourage and aid the search for a replacement.
Today Is 1st Day of Lent for Orthodox Christians; To Concentrate on Spiritual Life for Next 40 Days
The Voice of Russia website reports that today (February 27, 2012) is the first day of Lent for Orthodox Christians, who will concentrate on spiritual life for the next 40 days, as they prepare themselves for Easter.
Jesus Christ is known to have gone to a desert after baptizing and fasted there for seven weeks.
The period of fasting is the time for repenting, thinking, and praying, as well as the time when some foods -- such as meats and dairy products -- are not eaten, and all vicious habits and merry-making are given up, while the Lord is asked to cleanse away our sins.
Lent ends when Easter comes -- this year on April 15. The Greek Orthodox Easter will be celebrated one week after the Roman Catholic and Protestant Easter, which is being celebrated on April 8 this year.
Jesus Christ is known to have gone to a desert after baptizing and fasted there for seven weeks.
The period of fasting is the time for repenting, thinking, and praying, as well as the time when some foods -- such as meats and dairy products -- are not eaten, and all vicious habits and merry-making are given up, while the Lord is asked to cleanse away our sins.
Lent ends when Easter comes -- this year on April 15. The Greek Orthodox Easter will be celebrated one week after the Roman Catholic and Protestant Easter, which is being celebrated on April 8 this year.
Blame it on Bath: The Truth about the Duke
Gerard is home on bereavement leave from the Peninsula Wars, and is determined to use his time to track down the blackmailer threatening his family and his livelihood. He finds himself propositioned into marriage by the widow Lady Katherine Howe. A merchant's daughter who married a viscount, Katherine is starved for attention and affection and finds herself still in love with Gerard, years after a chance encounter on a rainy country road. She needs this marriage in order to extricate herself from the expectation of a match to her dead husband's heir. Lacking any self-confidence, Kate sees Gerard as her ticket out of the quandary heavily promoted by her formidable mother. Fortunately for her, Gerard needs an heiress to marry in order to guarantee his income should the Durham Dilemma resolve itself against the De Lacey's. And so, after much thought, he agrees to the marriage.
I loved this book because Gerard himself is so very lovable. He's the quintessential romance hero. Despite an arranged marriage, he tries to make a go of it and when faced with Kate's insecurity complex, he takes his time to coax her (both in bed and out) from her shell. She begins to truly believe in herself for the first time in her life and in return, earns Gerard's love for herself as well. The blackmail story becomes the backdrop for this beautiful love story set in Bath.
Blame it on Bath is out on February 28, 2011. I look forward to reading elder brother and heir, Charles' story. I've found that this novel is incrementally better than the previous one. If that continues to be the case, the last in this series will surely not disappoint, especially since Charles has the furthest to go to redemption.
Sunday, February 26, 2012
Tufts Univ. to Offer an Africana Studies Major; Harvard, Northeastern, Brandeis Already Offer It
The Boston Globe website reports today (February 26, 2012) that Tufts University -- located in Medford, Massachusetts -- is designing an Africana studies major for the first time, and opening a center devoted to the study of race and democracy amid a broader push to integrate diversity into the school's academic fabric.
It is an endeavor long overdue -- according to Tufts students and professors -- coming decades after some peer Boston area institutions began granting similar degrees, and having centers of research.
Students have been pushing for an Africana studies program for two years, saying it was unacceptable for Tufts -- one of the country's top research universities -- to lag behind its peers in having a comprehensive course of study on race, gender, and class.
The Africana studies major could be introduced as early as September 2012, putting Tufts in the company of other Boston-area prestigious schools, such as Harvard, Northeastern, and Brandeis universities.
It is an endeavor long overdue -- according to Tufts students and professors -- coming decades after some peer Boston area institutions began granting similar degrees, and having centers of research.
Students have been pushing for an Africana studies program for two years, saying it was unacceptable for Tufts -- one of the country's top research universities -- to lag behind its peers in having a comprehensive course of study on race, gender, and class.
The Africana studies major could be introduced as early as September 2012, putting Tufts in the company of other Boston-area prestigious schools, such as Harvard, Northeastern, and Brandeis universities.
Chicago Cardinal George to Snub Irish PM's Visit; Rejects Irish Club's St. Pat's Eve Dinner Invite
The Irish Central website reports today (February 26, 2012) that Cardinal Francis George, 74, of Chicago has turned down an invitation to the Irish Fellowship Club's St. Patrick Day dinner, apparently because Irish Prime Minister Enda Kenny is the main speaker.
Kenny lashed out at the Vatican in a widely reported attack last year over its refusal to cooperate in the inquiry into child sexual abuse in the diocese of Cloyne in Cork, Ireland.
Then -- late last year -- the Irish government closed down its Vatican Embassy in a move seen as related to the strong criticism of the Vatican role in the sex abuse scandals.
Now, Cardinal George -- a conservative who is very close to Pope Benedict -- has refused an invitation to the prestigious St. Patrick's eve event on March 16th run by an organization with deep Catholic roots and a major donor to Catholic charities.
Kenny lashed out at the Vatican in a widely reported attack last year over its refusal to cooperate in the inquiry into child sexual abuse in the diocese of Cloyne in Cork, Ireland.
Then -- late last year -- the Irish government closed down its Vatican Embassy in a move seen as related to the strong criticism of the Vatican role in the sex abuse scandals.
Now, Cardinal George -- a conservative who is very close to Pope Benedict -- has refused an invitation to the prestigious St. Patrick's eve event on March 16th run by an organization with deep Catholic roots and a major donor to Catholic charities.
Pope: Stay Close to Jesus to Conquer Temptations; Cites Christ's 40 Days in the Desert as Example
The Catholic News Agency website reports that Pope Benedict XVI said today (February 26, 2012) that Christ's 40 days in the desert teaches Christians that temptations can be overcome in life if we stay close to Jesus.
"Man is never wholly free from the temptation...but with patience and true humility we become stronger than an enemy," the Pope said in his Sunday Angelus address.
The Pope addressed thousands of pilgrims gathered in St. Peter's Square on the first Sunday of Lent, giving a reflection of St. Mark's Gospel account of Christ's 40 days in the desert when He was tempted by Satan.
Pope Benedict added that Jesus "willingly suffered the attack of the tempter to defend us with His help and to teach us by His example."
"Man is never wholly free from the temptation...but with patience and true humility we become stronger than an enemy," the Pope said in his Sunday Angelus address.
The Pope addressed thousands of pilgrims gathered in St. Peter's Square on the first Sunday of Lent, giving a reflection of St. Mark's Gospel account of Christ's 40 days in the desert when He was tempted by Satan.
Pope Benedict added that Jesus "willingly suffered the attack of the tempter to defend us with His help and to teach us by His example."
Carnival Cut-out Standee AKA Faces in Holes People Posing in Plywood
Carnival Cutout Standee. Three lovely woman on a "girls day" at the carnival! (Does this suit make me look hippy?)
Who doesn't have a photo in the basement or the attic of the kids in fake stockades at some western tourist trap? They are back, if they ever left, that is. Here is a company which will make them, disco-style.
Original carnival cutout snapshot circa 1940 Collection Jim Linderman
ORDER JIM LINDERMAN BOOKS AND EBOOKS HERE
Saturday, February 25, 2012
COMMENTARY: Lesbian Judge in Texas Needs to Change Her Priorities
This week, it was revealed that a lesbian judge in Texas is refusing to wed opposite sex couples until same sex couples can also be wed in that state.
Judge Tonya Parker -- the first openly gay African-American elected a county judge in Texas -- said she does not perform opposite sex weddings because it is not an equal application of the law.
Although she does not perform marriage ceremonies, Judge Parker passes them on to other judges so the ceremonies can be completed.
The fact is that Texas has changed its constitution to define marriage as a union between a man and a woman; therefore, two women or two men cannot have a bona fide marriage ceremony in Texas under the law.
We believe that Judge Parker is acting rather childish -- and even selfish -- in refusing to perform marriage ceremonies for opposite sex couples, just because Texas law forbids her from having a marriage ceremony with her lesbian lover.
Moreover, Judge Parker needs to realize that the paramount purpose of her role as a Texas judge is to serve the citizens of Texas, and not herself.
As long as she continues to refuse to perform marriage ceremonies for opposite sex couples, then, Judge Parker is doing a grave injustice to the state of Texas, to its citizens -- and to herself.
Judge Tonya Parker -- the first openly gay African-American elected a county judge in Texas -- said she does not perform opposite sex weddings because it is not an equal application of the law.
Although she does not perform marriage ceremonies, Judge Parker passes them on to other judges so the ceremonies can be completed.
The fact is that Texas has changed its constitution to define marriage as a union between a man and a woman; therefore, two women or two men cannot have a bona fide marriage ceremony in Texas under the law.
We believe that Judge Parker is acting rather childish -- and even selfish -- in refusing to perform marriage ceremonies for opposite sex couples, just because Texas law forbids her from having a marriage ceremony with her lesbian lover.
Moreover, Judge Parker needs to realize that the paramount purpose of her role as a Texas judge is to serve the citizens of Texas, and not herself.
As long as she continues to refuse to perform marriage ceremonies for opposite sex couples, then, Judge Parker is doing a grave injustice to the state of Texas, to its citizens -- and to herself.
Brazil Makes Advances for Becoming World Leader; Only Behind US as Christian Missionary Exporter
The Christian Today website reports today (February 25, 2012) that Brazil is sending the second highest number of missionaries to the rest of the world, according to the director of a Global Christianity study organization.
Of 400,000 global missionaries that were sent to foreign countries in 2010, Brazil sent 34,000 -- second behind the United States, which sent 127,000.
The statistics were presented by Todd Johnson -- director of the Center for the Study of Global Christianity at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary in South Hamilton, Massachusetts.
Beaten only by the United States, Brazil has the second largest Protestant population in the world. Brazil also has more Catholics who live in it than any other country in the world.
Of 400,000 global missionaries that were sent to foreign countries in 2010, Brazil sent 34,000 -- second behind the United States, which sent 127,000.
The statistics were presented by Todd Johnson -- director of the Center for the Study of Global Christianity at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary in South Hamilton, Massachusetts.
Beaten only by the United States, Brazil has the second largest Protestant population in the world. Brazil also has more Catholics who live in it than any other country in the world.
Jerusalem Church Defaced with Hateful Graffiti; Vandals Spray "Death to Christianity," Other Slurs
Unknown assailants spray painted blasphemous graffiti on a church building that's home to several Christian congregations in downtown Jerusalem, the Christian Broadcast Network website reports today (February 25, 2012).
Vandals sprayed messages of hate -- slurs against Jesus including, "We'll Crucify You" and "Death to Christianity" -- in Hebrew on the walls of the Baptist House.
Dr. Al Nucciarone -- senior pastor of the Jerusalem Baptist Church -- said, "Obviously people don't like Christians being here and don't like Jesus."
Police are investigating whether the vandalism is connected to earlier attacks this month on a Jerusalem monastery and mosque.
Vandals sprayed messages of hate -- slurs against Jesus including, "We'll Crucify You" and "Death to Christianity" -- in Hebrew on the walls of the Baptist House.
Dr. Al Nucciarone -- senior pastor of the Jerusalem Baptist Church -- said, "Obviously people don't like Christians being here and don't like Jesus."
Police are investigating whether the vandalism is connected to earlier attacks this month on a Jerusalem monastery and mosque.
Buckshot Flat Confidence Duck Decoy Folk Art
Handmade duck decoy with a pair of buckshot eyes.
Handmade flat duck decoy Michigan Circa 1930 Collection Jim Linderman
Order Books and Ebooks by Jim Linderman HERE
Friday, February 24, 2012
Mayor Bloomberg Defends NYPD Spying on Muslims; Says It Is Legal, Necessary to Prevent Terrorism
The New York Daily News website reports today (February 24, 2012) that New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg vigorously defended the police department's spying on Muslims in the city -- as well as across the river in Newark -- as necessary in a post 9/11 world.
"Everything the NYPD has done is legal, it is appropriate, it is constitutional," the mayor said. "They are permitted to travel beyond the border of New York City to investigate cases."
He added, "The NYPD is trying to stop terrorism in the entire region."
Bloomberg launched his defense of surveillance a day after the NYPD defended itself against accusations that it violated the law by spying on Muslims not only in New York, but also in New Jersey.
"Everything the NYPD has done is legal, it is appropriate, it is constitutional," the mayor said. "They are permitted to travel beyond the border of New York City to investigate cases."
He added, "The NYPD is trying to stop terrorism in the entire region."
Bloomberg launched his defense of surveillance a day after the NYPD defended itself against accusations that it violated the law by spying on Muslims not only in New York, but also in New Jersey.
Lesbian Judge in Texas Refuses to Wed Couples; Won't Do So Until Same Sex TX Couples Can Marry
The Raw Story website reports today (February 24, 2012) that a lesbian judge in Texas is refusing to wed opposite sex couples until same sex couples can be married as well.
"I do not perform them because it is not an equal application of the law. Period," Judge Tonya Parker said.
Parker -- the first openly LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender) African-American elected officially in the state's history -- explained why she refuses to perform marriages.
She said, "It's kind of oxymoronic for me to perform ceremonies that can't be performed for me, so I'm not going to do it."
"I do not perform them because it is not an equal application of the law. Period," Judge Tonya Parker said.
Parker -- the first openly LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender) African-American elected officially in the state's history -- explained why she refuses to perform marriages.
She said, "It's kind of oxymoronic for me to perform ceremonies that can't be performed for me, so I'm not going to do it."
Twelve Killed Today in Quran-Burning Protests; Eight Killed Yesterday Despite Obama's Apology
The Daily Beast website reports that at least 12 more people were killed today (February 24, 2012) in Afghanistan, as the outrage over the burning of Qurans in that country by American troops continues.
Protesters gathered in Kabul today for the fourth day, with hundreds marching to the palace of President Hamid Karzai.
The rallies turned violent yesterday, leaving at least eight people dead, including two U.S. soldiers.
President Obama apologized to the Afghan people in a letter yesterday, but crowds of Afghans are unconvinced, as protests have spread across the country.
Protesters gathered in Kabul today for the fourth day, with hundreds marching to the palace of President Hamid Karzai.
The rallies turned violent yesterday, leaving at least eight people dead, including two U.S. soldiers.
President Obama apologized to the Afghan people in a letter yesterday, but crowds of Afghans are unconvinced, as protests have spread across the country.
Dr. Locke Famous Phony Faith Healer 1933
I'm a little busy today, so no story, though I am sure there is a good one. Just a few real photo postcards of a "faith healer" at work. NOTE: This post is also on the blog old-time-religion, where miracles such as this occur on a regular basis.
Pair of Real Photo Postcards 1933 "Dr. Locke, Faith Healer" Collection Jim Linderman
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Thursday, February 23, 2012
Maryland Lawmakers Approve Same-Sex Marriage; Md. Governor O'Malley Will Sign Bill into Law
The Voice of America website reports today (February 23, 2012) that the state of Maryland is about to join seven other states and the District of Columbia that currently legalize same-sex marriage.
The Maryland state Senate today approved a gay marriage bill by a vote of 25-22, days after the measure passed in the state assembly.
Maryland Governor Martin O'Malley -- a Democrat who sponsored the bill -- has pledged to sign it into law.
Gay marriage is legal in Washington state, Connecticut, Iowa, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, Vermont, and Washington, D.C.
The Maryland state Senate today approved a gay marriage bill by a vote of 25-22, days after the measure passed in the state assembly.
Maryland Governor Martin O'Malley -- a Democrat who sponsored the bill -- has pledged to sign it into law.
Gay marriage is legal in Washington state, Connecticut, Iowa, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, Vermont, and Washington, D.C.
Defense of Marriage Act Ruled Unconstitutional; Wife of Lesbian Fed. Court Employee Gets Bendfits
The Washington Times website reports today (February 23, 2012) that a judge yesterday declared the 1996 Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) unconstitutional, and ordered the federal government to ignore the statute and provide health benefits to the wife of a lesbian federal court employee.
The ruling -- by U.S. District Judge Jeffrey White -- was the first since the Obama administration announced a year ago that it would no longer defend the law because it considered DOMA to be discriminatory against gays and lesbians.
White ordered the federal Office of Personnel Management to enroll the wife of Karen Golinski -- an attorney for the U.S. 9th Circuit Court of Appeals -- in the health benefits program available to other employees of the federal judiciary.
DOMA prohibits the extension of federal benefits to same-sex spouses, and Amy Cunninghis -- Golinski's wife -- had been repeatedly denied coverage since the couple "married" in 2008.
The ruling -- by U.S. District Judge Jeffrey White -- was the first since the Obama administration announced a year ago that it would no longer defend the law because it considered DOMA to be discriminatory against gays and lesbians.
White ordered the federal Office of Personnel Management to enroll the wife of Karen Golinski -- an attorney for the U.S. 9th Circuit Court of Appeals -- in the health benefits program available to other employees of the federal judiciary.
DOMA prohibits the extension of federal benefits to same-sex spouses, and Amy Cunninghis -- Golinski's wife -- had been repeatedly denied coverage since the couple "married" in 2008.
Catholic Priest Fired in Ill. for Changing Mass; Refused to Follow New Translation in Cath. Mass
An Illinois bishop confirmed today (February 23, 2012) that a Roman Catholic priest was fired because he "simply would not and could not pray the prayers of the Mass" under a new translation that went into effect last year, according to the Religion News website.
Bishop Edward Braxton of Belleville, Illinois -- in a rare letter of explanation about an internal personnel dispute -- responded to the firing of the Rev. William Rowe, who has been pastor of St. Mary's Catholic Church in Carmel, Ill. for 18 years.
Braxton said several parishioners of St. Mary's had brought audio and video evidence to him, "which showed the many changes and omissions Fr. Rowe makes in the Mass."
According to Catholic liturgical practice, priests are required to use the prayers laid out in the Missal -- the book of prayers, chants, and responses used during the Mass.
Bishop Edward Braxton of Belleville, Illinois -- in a rare letter of explanation about an internal personnel dispute -- responded to the firing of the Rev. William Rowe, who has been pastor of St. Mary's Catholic Church in Carmel, Ill. for 18 years.
Braxton said several parishioners of St. Mary's had brought audio and video evidence to him, "which showed the many changes and omissions Fr. Rowe makes in the Mass."
According to Catholic liturgical practice, priests are required to use the prayers laid out in the Missal -- the book of prayers, chants, and responses used during the Mass.
Abp. in Poland Rips Secularist Attack on the Church; Infuriates Many Poles with His "Language of Hate"
The Catholic Culture website reports today (February 23, 2012) that an archbishop in Poland has plunged himself in controversy with a claim that the country is "witnessing a systematic attack on the Church from various libertine, atheist, and Masonic spheres."
Archbishop Jozef Michalik of Przemyskl -- who made the remark in a Lenten message -- immediately came under fire from political leaders who charged that he was aggravating divisions in society.
Media spokesmen angrily denied the archbishop's claim that Catholic voices are being excluded from public discussions.
Tadeusz Bartos -- a former cleric in Poland -- responded harshly to Archbishop Michalik's statement, saying: It was a "language of hate." He added, "It showed ingratitude towards the state which favors the Church."
Archbishop Jozef Michalik of Przemyskl -- who made the remark in a Lenten message -- immediately came under fire from political leaders who charged that he was aggravating divisions in society.
Media spokesmen angrily denied the archbishop's claim that Catholic voices are being excluded from public discussions.
Tadeusz Bartos -- a former cleric in Poland -- responded harshly to Archbishop Michalik's statement, saying: It was a "language of hate." He added, "It showed ingratitude towards the state which favors the Church."
Indecipherable Sign Says ? No Trespassing Homemade Sign Free Styling Picking Handmade Folk Art Signs
The best "no trespassing" signs are the ones you have to trespass to read. You can click to enlarge this one, but it won't help any. Usually, the worse the sign looks, the most you want to follow the directions. I once had a shotgun pulled on me near a no trespassing sign. I had stopped not to read it, but to steal what I thought was portions of a LONG abandoned whirligig nearby. I was wrong, but learned having a gun drawn on you isn't really so bad. I was worried more about buckshot in the rental car than I was for my life.
I saw those nice boys on American Pickers buy a factory made porcelain no trespassing sign this week. Two comments. Boys? That weren't no good no trespassing sign, and you don't even KNOW "Free Styling"
Original Snapshot, circa? Collection Jim Linderman
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Wednesday, February 22, 2012
COMMENTARY: Turkey's New Constitution Must Promote Equal Rights, Religious Freedom
This week, Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew -- the spiritual leader of more than 300 million Orthodox Christians worldwide -- met with members of a parliamentary subcommittee in Istanbul, Turkey that is seeking consensus for a new constitution for that predominantly Islamic country.
Patriarch Bartholomew told the subcommittee members that he favors a constitution that promotes equal rights and religious freedoms for minorities living in Turkey. He also said that he would like Turkey to reopen the Halki Greek Orthodox Seminary that it closed down in 1971.
The Ecumenical Patriarch also stated that religious and ethnic minorities were not able to participate fully in Turkey as judges and prosecutors through a silent exclusion. He said that Turkey should end this discriminatory practice.
We believe that Turkey's new constitution must ensure that all of Turkey's citizens -- Muslims, Christians, Jews, etc. -- are treated equally under the law, and are given equal consideration in the selection of governmental and other positions within the republic.
Indeed, these are critical democratic and non-discriminatory recommendations for Turkey to include in its new constitution -- recommendations that Turkey must be proud to implement, if it expects to follow a path that will make it a world leader in the 21st century.
Patriarch Bartholomew told the subcommittee members that he favors a constitution that promotes equal rights and religious freedoms for minorities living in Turkey. He also said that he would like Turkey to reopen the Halki Greek Orthodox Seminary that it closed down in 1971.
The Ecumenical Patriarch also stated that religious and ethnic minorities were not able to participate fully in Turkey as judges and prosecutors through a silent exclusion. He said that Turkey should end this discriminatory practice.
We believe that Turkey's new constitution must ensure that all of Turkey's citizens -- Muslims, Christians, Jews, etc. -- are treated equally under the law, and are given equal consideration in the selection of governmental and other positions within the republic.
Indeed, these are critical democratic and non-discriminatory recommendations for Turkey to include in its new constitution -- recommendations that Turkey must be proud to implement, if it expects to follow a path that will make it a world leader in the 21st century.
Most Women Under 30 Giving Birth Are Not Married; Many Won't Marry Due to Failure of Their Parents
The Catholic California Daily website reports today (February 22, 2012) that -- for the first time in American history -- more than half of all births to American women under 30 are occurring outside of marriage.
That's what Child Trends -- analyzing data from the National Center for Health Statistics -- found out. The New York Times reported last weekend, "It used to be called illegitimacy. Now it is the new normal."
Researchers have found that children born to married couples -- on the average -- "experience better education, social, cognitive, and behavioral outcomes" than others.
Many of these unwed mothers say they refuse to get married because they don't want to repeat the failures of their parents' marriages. Many of their parents' marriages ended as a result of their fathers abandoning their mothers to be involved with other women.
That's what Child Trends -- analyzing data from the National Center for Health Statistics -- found out. The New York Times reported last weekend, "It used to be called illegitimacy. Now it is the new normal."
Researchers have found that children born to married couples -- on the average -- "experience better education, social, cognitive, and behavioral outcomes" than others.
Many of these unwed mothers say they refuse to get married because they don't want to repeat the failures of their parents' marriages. Many of their parents' marriages ended as a result of their fathers abandoning their mothers to be involved with other women.
Israel's Top Court Rejects Orthodox Draft Law; Means Ultra-Orthodox Jews Need Not Serve in Mil.
Israel's highest court today (February 22, 2012) struck down a law designed to encourage ultra-Orthodox Jews to join the military and the workforce -- saying it had backfired by "entrenching" their blanket draft exemptions and protracted seminary studies -- according to the Reuters website.
The 2002 "Service Deferred Law" offered the ultra-Orthodox Jews -- who make up 10 percent of Israel's population and are often dependent on welfare to live -- a choice upon reaching draft age between studying in seminaries or working. The latter option required first enlisting in the military.
By a vote of 6 to 3, the Supreme Court declared that the law was unconstitutional.
The court also said that the law failed to achieve its objectives -- and even "entrenched" ultra-Orthodox Jews into their traditional lifestyle -- as it resulted in low military enlistments.
The 2002 "Service Deferred Law" offered the ultra-Orthodox Jews -- who make up 10 percent of Israel's population and are often dependent on welfare to live -- a choice upon reaching draft age between studying in seminaries or working. The latter option required first enlisting in the military.
By a vote of 6 to 3, the Supreme Court declared that the law was unconstitutional.
The court also said that the law failed to achieve its objectives -- and even "entrenched" ultra-Orthodox Jews into their traditional lifestyle -- as it resulted in low military enlistments.
Tuesday, February 21, 2012
Bartholomew Urges Turkey to Allow More Rel. Freedom; Wants Turkey to Reopen Greek Orthodox Seminary
The Christian Broadcast Network website reports today (February 21, 2012) that the spiritual leader of the world's Orthodox Christians says Turkey's new constitution should grant more religious freedom to the Islamic country's minority groups.
Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew met on February 20 with members of a parliamentary subcommittee seeking an all-party consensus for a new constitution, which will replace the one ratified in 1982 while Turkey was under military rule.
Bartholomew said he favors a constitution that promotes equal rights and religious freedoms, including the reopening of the Halki Greek Orthodox Seminary that Turkey closed down in 1971. Turkey has promised it will allow the Halki Seminary to reopen -- on several occasions -- during the past five years, but has not kept any of its promises.
Bartholomew -- who is based in Istanbul (formerly called Constantinople) -- is the spiritual leader of more than 300 million Orthodox Christians worldwide.
Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew met on February 20 with members of a parliamentary subcommittee seeking an all-party consensus for a new constitution, which will replace the one ratified in 1982 while Turkey was under military rule.
Bartholomew said he favors a constitution that promotes equal rights and religious freedoms, including the reopening of the Halki Greek Orthodox Seminary that Turkey closed down in 1971. Turkey has promised it will allow the Halki Seminary to reopen -- on several occasions -- during the past five years, but has not kept any of its promises.
Bartholomew -- who is based in Istanbul (formerly called Constantinople) -- is the spiritual leader of more than 300 million Orthodox Christians worldwide.
What Makes a Washer Woman Work on Wash Day? Whirligig with No Wind Works Revealed
A pair of snapshots reveal the workings of an articulated sign. Both women here are among the most commonly seen whirligig figures, but no wind is required for these.
Anonymous Photographs, circa 1920? Collection Jim Linderman
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Jim Linderman Slide Show New York Times 2/12/12
PHOTO BY ADAM BIRD FOR THE NEW YORK TIMES
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Catholics Celebrate Beginning of Lent Tomorrow; Ash Wed. Symbolizes Dust before Birth,after Death
The Rome Reports website states that tomorrow (February 22, 2012) marks the beginning of Lent -- often referred to as Ash Wednesday -- when Catholics bare the tradition cross of ashes on their forehead, as a sign of penance.
This year, Pope Benedict XVI will receive ashes from Cardinal Joseph Tomko, who will recite "Remember that thou art dust, and to dust thou shalt return."
For about 1200 years, tradition marks that the Pope usually leaves the Vatican on Ash Wednesday, to celebrate the date in one of Rome's basilicas.
For decades, the ceremony has taken place at the Basilica of San Anselmo in Rome's Avventino Hill. The Pope then celebrates a procession that ends at the Basilica of Santa Sabina. The uphill procession symbolizes the effort Catholics make to be Holy.
This year, Pope Benedict XVI will receive ashes from Cardinal Joseph Tomko, who will recite "Remember that thou art dust, and to dust thou shalt return."
For about 1200 years, tradition marks that the Pope usually leaves the Vatican on Ash Wednesday, to celebrate the date in one of Rome's basilicas.
For decades, the ceremony has taken place at the Basilica of San Anselmo in Rome's Avventino Hill. The Pope then celebrates a procession that ends at the Basilica of Santa Sabina. The uphill procession symbolizes the effort Catholics make to be Holy.
Quran-Burning at US Afghan Base Sparks Protests; Qurans Were Mistakenly Thrown Out with the Trash
The ABC News website reports today (February 21, 2012) that U.S. troops on Afghanistan's largest military base inadvertently burned Qurans and other religious materials last night -- triggering angry protests and fears of larger demonstrations -- as news of the burning spreads.
The Qurans were mistakenly thrown out with the trash at Bagram Air Field north of Kabul, and were on a burn pile before Afghan laborers intervened around 11 p.m. last night.
The workers doused the flames with their jackets and mineral water before marching out of Bagram in a fury, carrying with them charred remains.
By this morning, hundreds of demonstrators gathered outside of Bagram and on the outskirts of Kabul. Some shot bullets into the air, some threw rocks at the Bagram gate, and others yelled, "Die, die foreigners."
The Qurans were mistakenly thrown out with the trash at Bagram Air Field north of Kabul, and were on a burn pile before Afghan laborers intervened around 11 p.m. last night.
The workers doused the flames with their jackets and mineral water before marching out of Bagram in a fury, carrying with them charred remains.
By this morning, hundreds of demonstrators gathered outside of Bagram and on the outskirts of Kabul. Some shot bullets into the air, some threw rocks at the Bagram gate, and others yelled, "Die, die foreigners."
Roly - Poly Carnival Sideshow Sign and Tommy Duncan Throttles Bob Wills
I never did find out what sideshow game Roly-Poly was, but if they really did award a prize to every player you can be sure it was from under the counter, not from the wall display in back.
I will, however, take the slightest excuse to share Bob Wills, especially when it is a number performed by the great Tommy Duncan. Tommy was smooth as the expensive whiskey Bob was able to drink to excess every day, but what made the pair work so well was the suppressed, seething tension in Tommy's voice every time the lovable drunk buffoon stepped on his lines with a patented "Aaah Haah" aside. You can tell Tommy wanted to throttle Bob, the biggest country ham in the state of Texas, but it was a good gig.
He finally left...and as the clip below shows, he should have stayed. Still, you have to see a real roly poly play the Bob Wills part. Gnaw on a biscuit.
Roly-Poly Carnival Sideshow Sign. Circa 1930 Collection Jim Linderman
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Monday, February 20, 2012
Russian Orthodox Church Rips Reports on Patriarch; Claim Kirill Made Billions of $ in the 1990s
The Notes from the Underground (NFTU) blog reports today (February 20, 2012) that the Russian Orthodox Church has flatly denied media publications stating that Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Russia traded in tax-free tobacco and oil in the 1990s -- and made billions of dollars on it.
The synodal information department said in a news release -- issued today -- that such publications "are false and deliberately defame the Holy Patriarch and the Russian Orthodox Church in general."
Today's news release also states that these allegations are based on "rumors and speculation, unchecked statements, and biased opinions."
The reports state that Patriarch Kirill was the leader in the 1990s in the profitable business of duty-free tobacco and oil trade, the license for which was given to the Russian Orthodox Church. They also allege that Kirill -- a metropolitan at the time -- was an informer for the KGB (Russian secret police). Kirill -- who was nicknamed "the Tobacco Metropolitan" because of his acumen in the trade -- has denied the allegations.
The synodal information department said in a news release -- issued today -- that such publications "are false and deliberately defame the Holy Patriarch and the Russian Orthodox Church in general."
Today's news release also states that these allegations are based on "rumors and speculation, unchecked statements, and biased opinions."
The reports state that Patriarch Kirill was the leader in the 1990s in the profitable business of duty-free tobacco and oil trade, the license for which was given to the Russian Orthodox Church. They also allege that Kirill -- a metropolitan at the time -- was an informer for the KGB (Russian secret police). Kirill -- who was nicknamed "the Tobacco Metropolitan" because of his acumen in the trade -- has denied the allegations.
Children in Quebec, Canada Must Take Rel. Class; Can. Supreme Court Won't Listen to Parental Appeal
The Big News Network website reports today (February 20, 2012) that Canada's Supreme Court -- by refusing to hear an appeal -- ruled on February 17 that children in the province of Quebec cannot opt out of a public school religion class, even if their parents take issue with the curriculum.
The case was filed by two Catholic parents who took issue with their child being enrolled in Quebec's Ethics and Religious Culture program.
This course teaches about the many religions in Canada and their contributions to the nation's culture.
Although the parents argued that the mandatory course would interfere with their ability to pass their faith onto their children, the Supreme Court rejected that argument and refused to hear the case.
The case was filed by two Catholic parents who took issue with their child being enrolled in Quebec's Ethics and Religious Culture program.
This course teaches about the many religions in Canada and their contributions to the nation's culture.
Although the parents argued that the mandatory course would interfere with their ability to pass their faith onto their children, the Supreme Court rejected that argument and refused to hear the case.
Atheists Raise $40K for RI High School Student; Sued Cranston School to Remove Christian Banner
An atheist group has raised more than $40,000 as a "scholarship" fund for Jessica Ahlquist -- a 16-year-old student from Rhode Island who sued her public school and got a 50-year-old Christian prayer banner removed from its walls -- the Christian Post website reports today (February 20, 2012).
Atheist Hemant Mehta is running an online scholarship fundraising campaign for Ahlquist -- who attends Cranston High School West -- on his blog.
Mehta -- who is the chair of Foundation Beyond Belief and a high school math teacher in a Chicago suburb -- says he will end the fundraiser for Ahlquist on March 1.
A federal court ruled last month that the Christian mural had to be removed. The Cranston school board voted last week not to appeal the court ruling, due to its inability to meet the legal costs of an appeal.
Atheist Hemant Mehta is running an online scholarship fundraising campaign for Ahlquist -- who attends Cranston High School West -- on his blog.
Mehta -- who is the chair of Foundation Beyond Belief and a high school math teacher in a Chicago suburb -- says he will end the fundraiser for Ahlquist on March 1.
A federal court ruled last month that the Christian mural had to be removed. The Cranston school board voted last week not to appeal the court ruling, due to its inability to meet the legal costs of an appeal.
Sunday, February 19, 2012
Exclusive:Whitney's Daughter High After Funeral; Disappeared Many Hours in Hotel Room, Got High
The Daily Beast website reports exclusively today (February 19, 2012) that Bobbi Kristina Brown -- Whitney Houston's daughter -- disappeared for several hours after her mother's funeral yesterday, and was found using drugs, according to two sources close to the family.
As Houston's body was set to be transported to the Fairview Cemetery in Westfield, New Jersey for burial Sunday morning, her family was in full panic mode trying to find Houston's 18-year-old daughter. Ms. Cissy Houston -- Whitney's mother -- was beside herself, a family friend said.
"Cissy and others won't admit it out loud that Bobbi Kristina has a drug problem," said the family friend. "But they know it and have been trying to keep her straight even before Whitney passed."
Several hours after the funeral, Bobbi Kristina was found at a hotel "getting high," according to the family friend. Those close to the family say Bobby Kristina will be flown to a California rehab facility today or tomorrow.
As Houston's body was set to be transported to the Fairview Cemetery in Westfield, New Jersey for burial Sunday morning, her family was in full panic mode trying to find Houston's 18-year-old daughter. Ms. Cissy Houston -- Whitney's mother -- was beside herself, a family friend said.
"Cissy and others won't admit it out loud that Bobbi Kristina has a drug problem," said the family friend. "But they know it and have been trying to keep her straight even before Whitney passed."
Several hours after the funeral, Bobbi Kristina was found at a hotel "getting high," according to the family friend. Those close to the family say Bobby Kristina will be flown to a California rehab facility today or tomorrow.
Santorum: Obama's Views Based on "Phony Theology;" Rips Obama for Imposing His Values on the Church
The Christian Post website reports today (February 19, 2012) that Rick Santorum -- who many believe will be the Republican presidential nominee -- blasted President Obama's policies yesterday, saying they are based on some "phony theology" and not on the Bible.
Obama's policies are "not about you. It's not about your quality of life. It's not about your jobs. It's about some phony ideal. Some phony theology," the former Pennsylvania senator told a group of Americans in Columbus, Ohio.
Santorum added that Obama was imposing his values on the church, in an obvious reference to the president's recent birth control mandate.
Obama's campaign took Santorum's allegation seriously, calling it "the latest low in a Republican primary campaign."
Obama's policies are "not about you. It's not about your quality of life. It's not about your jobs. It's about some phony ideal. Some phony theology," the former Pennsylvania senator told a group of Americans in Columbus, Ohio.
Santorum added that Obama was imposing his values on the church, in an obvious reference to the president's recent birth control mandate.
Obama's campaign took Santorum's allegation seriously, calling it "the latest low in a Republican primary campaign."
Cleric Warns Russia to Be Ready for World War; Says World's Econ. and Soc. Problems to Cause War
The Eurasion Review website reports today (February 19, 2012) that a top Russian Orthodox Church cleric -- speaking on matters beyond the realm of the spiritual -- said Russia must play a greater role in responding to ongoing global events that could deteriorate into a world war.
"There are many processes occurring in the world in which Russia should play a much more active role," Vsevolod Chaplin -- a highly-placed cleric in the Russian Orthodox Church -- said today.
He added, "The economic and social contradictions that have cropped up in the world are so powerful that they are sure to blow up into serious military operations."
Chaplin also said, "In order to ensure that these military operations do not unfold on our territory -- or in the vicinity of our borders -- we need to keep our armed forces combat ready."
"There are many processes occurring in the world in which Russia should play a much more active role," Vsevolod Chaplin -- a highly-placed cleric in the Russian Orthodox Church -- said today.
He added, "The economic and social contradictions that have cropped up in the world are so powerful that they are sure to blow up into serious military operations."
Chaplin also said, "In order to ensure that these military operations do not unfold on our territory -- or in the vicinity of our borders -- we need to keep our armed forces combat ready."
50 Years...
February 20, 1962 John Glenn became the first American to orbit the Earth. He was preceded by Russian Yuri Gagarin. 50 years later the US again lacks the ability to put woman or man into Space. In the last 3 years we have seen national leadership that cares little for Space. All things, even the speed of light, change with time. When will this change?
Saturday, February 18, 2012
Original Mug Shot Photograph New York City Crime 1950s collection Jim Linderman
A striking original mug shot photograph circa 1950 from New York City
Mug Shot circa 1950 8 x 10 Collection Jim Linderman
(Tip of the Hat to Monica)
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COMMENTARY: Alabama Supreme Court Ruling Should Be a Prelude to End of Legal Abortion
A critical unanimous ruling from the state Supreme Court in Alabama today (February 18, 2012) may serve as the beginning of the end for the U.S. Supreme Court's Roe v. Wade ruling in 1973, which legalized abortion in the United States.
The Alabama court stated that "An unborn child is a unique and individual human being from conception, and, therefore, he or she is entitled to the full protection of law at every stage of development." In other words, performing an abortion of an unborn child can be compared to killing a human being, because an unborn child -- from the time of conception -- is entitled to the full protection of the law.
In its unanimous ruling, the Alabama court -- in referring to the Roe v. Wade ruling -- stated that Roe is out of step with every other area of the law in which many state legislatures and courts have recognized the rights of the unborn child in wills and estates, tort or criminal law, and more.
The Alabama court ruling stems from a case in which Amy Hamilton filed suit against several doctors and a medical group for the wrongful death of her unborn child. She claimed that the lack of proper medical intervention resulted in the child's death.
Indeed, the Alabama supreme court ruling -- along with its critical ramifications regarding an unborn child -- is good news for true Christians and others who are opposed to abortion.
The fact is that the U.S. Supreme Court was wrong in its 1973 ruling that legalized abortion in the United States. It was wrong not only from a legal perspective, but also from a moral and religious perspective, because, in effect, it justified the murder of an unborn child.
The present U.S. Supreme Court, then, must soon overrule the Roe v. Wade ruling, because it is now a known fact that abortion -- at any stage of a woman's pregnancy -- is the murder of an unborn human life. That's right, murder!
The Alabama court stated that "An unborn child is a unique and individual human being from conception, and, therefore, he or she is entitled to the full protection of law at every stage of development." In other words, performing an abortion of an unborn child can be compared to killing a human being, because an unborn child -- from the time of conception -- is entitled to the full protection of the law.
In its unanimous ruling, the Alabama court -- in referring to the Roe v. Wade ruling -- stated that Roe is out of step with every other area of the law in which many state legislatures and courts have recognized the rights of the unborn child in wills and estates, tort or criminal law, and more.
The Alabama court ruling stems from a case in which Amy Hamilton filed suit against several doctors and a medical group for the wrongful death of her unborn child. She claimed that the lack of proper medical intervention resulted in the child's death.
Indeed, the Alabama supreme court ruling -- along with its critical ramifications regarding an unborn child -- is good news for true Christians and others who are opposed to abortion.
The fact is that the U.S. Supreme Court was wrong in its 1973 ruling that legalized abortion in the United States. It was wrong not only from a legal perspective, but also from a moral and religious perspective, because, in effect, it justified the murder of an unborn child.
The present U.S. Supreme Court, then, must soon overrule the Roe v. Wade ruling, because it is now a known fact that abortion -- at any stage of a woman's pregnancy -- is the murder of an unborn human life. That's right, murder!
State Supreme Court Says "Roe" Must Be Overruled; Rules Unborn Child Entitled to Protection of Law
The World Net Daily website reports today (February 18, 2012) that a stunning ruling from the state Supreme Court in Alabama is suggesting that states simply "reject" the concept of pre-viability abortion-at-will that comes from Roe v. Wade until the U.S. Supreme Court overrules the precedent. The ruling in Alabama was based on a case in which a woman -- who lost her unborn child -- sued doctors for medical negligence.
In the Alabama ruling, Justice Tom Parker said, "Since Roe was decided in 1973, advances in medical technology have greatly expanded our knowledge of prenatal life."
He added, "An unborn child is a unique and individual human being from conception, and, therefore, he or she is entitled to the full protection of law at every stage of development."
Justice Parker concluded, "For these reasons, Roe's viability rule is neither controlling nor persuasive here and should be rejected by other states until the day it is overruled by the United States Supreme Court."
In the Alabama ruling, Justice Tom Parker said, "Since Roe was decided in 1973, advances in medical technology have greatly expanded our knowledge of prenatal life."
He added, "An unborn child is a unique and individual human being from conception, and, therefore, he or she is entitled to the full protection of law at every stage of development."
Justice Parker concluded, "For these reasons, Roe's viability rule is neither controlling nor persuasive here and should be rejected by other states until the day it is overruled by the United States Supreme Court."
Pope Inducts 22 Men to Become Catholic Cardinals; Cardinal Dolan of NY May Become 1st American Pope
Pope Benedict XVI -- putting his mark on his Church's future -- today (February 18, 2012) inducted 22 men into the exclusive group of cardinals who will one day elect one of their own to succeed him as leader of the world's 1.3 billion Roman Catholics, according to the Reuters website.
New York's Archbishop Timothy Dolan -- who is already being mentioned by some Vatican experts as a possible future candidate to become the first American pope -- was among the most prominent in the group.
Benedict -- who turns 85 in April and is showing difficulty in walking and other signs of his age -- elevated the men to the highest Church rank below himself at the ceremony in St. Peter's Basilica known as a consistory.
"Cardinals are entrusted with the service of love: love of God, love of Church, an absolute and unconditional love for brothers and sisters, even unto shedding their blood if necessary," the pope told the new cardinals before giving them their rings and red birettas (hats).
New York's Archbishop Timothy Dolan -- who is already being mentioned by some Vatican experts as a possible future candidate to become the first American pope -- was among the most prominent in the group.
Benedict -- who turns 85 in April and is showing difficulty in walking and other signs of his age -- elevated the men to the highest Church rank below himself at the ceremony in St. Peter's Basilica known as a consistory.
"Cardinals are entrusted with the service of love: love of God, love of Church, an absolute and unconditional love for brothers and sisters, even unto shedding their blood if necessary," the pope told the new cardinals before giving them their rings and red birettas (hats).
Friday, February 17, 2012
MA City Vows to Defy Indefinite Detention Law; Says NDAA Violates a Person's Right to a Trial
The Raw Story website reports today (February 17, 2012) that the city of Northampton in Massachusetts passed a strong-worded resolution yesterday to "opt out" of a federal law that allows the indefinite detention of U.S. citizens without a trial.
The resolution protests provisions of the federal government's National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).
The resolution states: "Whereas, the indefinite detention of any person without trial violates the 5th and 6th amendments of the Constitution of the United States, Article III of the Constitution of the United States, and the Posse Comitatus Act."
William Newman -- the Director of the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) in Western Massachusetts -- was at yesterday's meeting to support the resolution. He said, "This law is an absolute affront to those principles that make America a free nation."
The resolution protests provisions of the federal government's National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).
The resolution states: "Whereas, the indefinite detention of any person without trial violates the 5th and 6th amendments of the Constitution of the United States, Article III of the Constitution of the United States, and the Posse Comitatus Act."
William Newman -- the Director of the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) in Western Massachusetts -- was at yesterday's meeting to support the resolution. He said, "This law is an absolute affront to those principles that make America a free nation."
Feds Arrest Man Preparing to Blow Up US Capitol; He Thought FBI Agents Were Al Qaeda Associates
Federal authorities today (February 17, 2012) arrested and charged a Virginia man on his way to the U.S. Capitol for what he thought would be a suicide attack on one of the nation's most symbolic landmarks, according to the Fox News website.
The man -- a Moroccan citizen who has lived in the United States for over a dozen years -- was identified as Amine El Khalifi, 29. He was nabbed following a lengthy investigation by the FBI, after he expressed interest in conducting an attack.
The suspect has been in the U.S. illegally since 1999. He entered the U.S. that year on a tourist visa, which expired and was never renewed.
The man thought undercover FBI agents assisting him in his plot were associates of Al Qaeda. He was arrested today while carrying a vest that he had been led to believe was packed with explosives, but the material inside the vest was not dangerous.
The man -- a Moroccan citizen who has lived in the United States for over a dozen years -- was identified as Amine El Khalifi, 29. He was nabbed following a lengthy investigation by the FBI, after he expressed interest in conducting an attack.
The suspect has been in the U.S. illegally since 1999. He entered the U.S. that year on a tourist visa, which expired and was never renewed.
The man thought undercover FBI agents assisting him in his plot were associates of Al Qaeda. He was arrested today while carrying a vest that he had been led to believe was packed with explosives, but the material inside the vest was not dangerous.
A Rare Unusual Photograph of Israel Thornstein or Charlie Chaplin or Something
Or something. A Dummy of Israel Thornstein? An Israel Thornstein Look-a-like?
(See Here)
Curious Original Photograph, circa 1920 Collection Jim Linderman
Book and E-Book Orders for Dull Tool Dim Bulb HERE
White Supremacist Pat Buchanan Fired by MSNBC; Wrote "Suicide of a Superpower," a Hateful Book
The Alter Net website reports today (February 17, 2012) that MSNBC has finally fired white supremacist Pat Buchanan.
MSNBC President Phil Griffin said Buchanan -- who has been off the air since October -- was fired after the publication of his latest book, "Suicide of a Superpower," which contains a chapter called "The End of White America."
The book is alarmingly hateful, with passages that warn for race war and blame minorities for racism against them.
Buchanan retaliated against his former employer of 10 years on his personal website, writing that MSNBC caves in to organizations like the African-American advocacy group, Color of Change; LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender) Human Rights Campaign; Jewish advocates at The Anti-Defamation League; and progressive media watchdog Media Matters for America.
MSNBC President Phil Griffin said Buchanan -- who has been off the air since October -- was fired after the publication of his latest book, "Suicide of a Superpower," which contains a chapter called "The End of White America."
The book is alarmingly hateful, with passages that warn for race war and blame minorities for racism against them.
Buchanan retaliated against his former employer of 10 years on his personal website, writing that MSNBC caves in to organizations like the African-American advocacy group, Color of Change; LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender) Human Rights Campaign; Jewish advocates at The Anti-Defamation League; and progressive media watchdog Media Matters for America.
The Extraordinary Wood Carvings of Anonymous 1921 Snapshot Collection Jim Linderman
Some serious folk art wood carving by Anonymous, who was so good he even had his own special "wood carving coveralls" for when the chips began to fly! Too bad there is no identification on the photo reverse, but at least we know the work depicted was finished around 1921. Close-ups here show not only the remarkable carving, but his weapon of choice.
Anonymous snapshot of a folk art furniture maker and carver, 1921 Collection Jim Linderman
(see also the book IN SITU: @merican Folk Art in Place available HERE in Ebook or paperback)
Tip of the Hat to Joey Lin of Anonymous Works
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Thursday, February 16, 2012
Six Pro-Lifers Arrested in Front of White House; Held Prayer Vigil to Protest Obama's B.C. Mandate
The Life Site News website reports that six pro-life activists -- including a Catholic priest -- were arrested today (February 16, 2012) in front of the White House, while holding a peaceful prayer vigil in protest against the Obama administration's birth control mandate.
They were released shortly thereafter, but only after each one paid a $100 fine.
Fr. Denis Wilde -- the Associate Director of Priests for Life -- said the protesters hoped to send a "wake-up call" to President Obama that opposition to his mandate is not going away.
The six were arrested on a charge of "disobeying a lawful order." Protesters are not allowed to remain stationary in front of the White House -- even if they kneel down and pray.
They were released shortly thereafter, but only after each one paid a $100 fine.
Fr. Denis Wilde -- the Associate Director of Priests for Life -- said the protesters hoped to send a "wake-up call" to President Obama that opposition to his mandate is not going away.
The six were arrested on a charge of "disobeying a lawful order." Protesters are not allowed to remain stationary in front of the White House -- even if they kneel down and pray.
MA Parents Sue to Remove "Under God" from Pledge; Say "Under God" Discriminates Against Atheists
The Washington Times website reports today (February 16, 2012) that an Acton, Massachusetts school district is being sued by parents over the wording of the Pledge of Allegiance, which they say discriminates against atheists.
The anonymous parents of three children in two Acton schools -- filing as John and Jane Doe -- are suing the district to have the words "under God" removed from the pledge, saying it is discriminatory against their children who are being raised as atheists.
David Niose -- the attorney for the parents -- said: "That suggests that people who don't believe in God are less patriotic than others, and that's just not the truth."
He added, "humanists and atheists are citizens, they pay their taxes, they get good grades."
The anonymous parents of three children in two Acton schools -- filing as John and Jane Doe -- are suing the district to have the words "under God" removed from the pledge, saying it is discriminatory against their children who are being raised as atheists.
David Niose -- the attorney for the parents -- said: "That suggests that people who don't believe in God are less patriotic than others, and that's just not the truth."
He added, "humanists and atheists are citizens, they pay their taxes, they get good grades."
Houston's Funeral to Be Broadcast on Internet; Service on Sat. in Newark Church Where She Sang
The Telegraph (British) website reports today (February 16, 2012) that Whitney Houston's funeral -- to be held in Newark, New Jersey on Saturday (February 18) -- will be private, but the ceremony will be live-streamed on the Internet so her fans can pay their respects and grieve for the singing star.
The funeral will be shown on the Livestream website on Saturday, and will also be available on some satellite TV services.
Houston died in Beverly Hills, California last Saturday -- presumably from accidentally taking too many drugs -- at the age of 48. The service will be held at the New Hope Baptist Church in Newark, where Houston sang in the choir during her childhood and teenage years.
Bobby Brown -- Houston's ex-husband who many blame for her drug addiction -- has been asked to stay away from her funeral; however, for the sake of the couple's 18-year-old daughter, family members said he will not be turned away from the private service.
The funeral will be shown on the Livestream website on Saturday, and will also be available on some satellite TV services.
Houston died in Beverly Hills, California last Saturday -- presumably from accidentally taking too many drugs -- at the age of 48. The service will be held at the New Hope Baptist Church in Newark, where Houston sang in the choir during her childhood and teenage years.
Bobby Brown -- Houston's ex-husband who many blame for her drug addiction -- has been asked to stay away from her funeral; however, for the sake of the couple's 18-year-old daughter, family members said he will not be turned away from the private service.
Mariana, by Susanna Kearsley
The lure of Susanna Kearsley's story telling in both The Winter Sea and The Rose Garden was just too much, so I couldn't resist reading Mariana. If you enjoy this author, resistance is futile. You won't be disappointed, as Mariana is more than up to the task of settling in right among those two wonderful novels.Julia Beckett is drawn to one particular farmhouse in Exbury. Known as Greywethers, and located adjacent to Crofton Hall, the seat of the de Mornay family, the 16th century house calls to her from childhood, and as an adult of 29, with a job as an illustrator for children's books, she has the wherewithal to purchase it. As she settles in, she becomes aware of coincidences and what can coyly be described as side effects, of living there. She sees a gray stallion with a mysterious rider, who seems to be watching her from a copse of trees. Then, she has what seem to be a series of hallucinations. She finds herself in the Greywethers of the 1660's, as Mariana Farr, a girl who has come to live with her devout uncle during the plague years in London. As she comes back to herself after each "episode," Julia realizes that these are not hallucinations, or the product of too little sleep, but something quite different, and she feels compelled to continue her journeys into the past in order to experience the love that Richard de Mornay had for Mariana, and by doing so, answer questions that pertain to her own life.
Ms. Kearsley's secondary characters which include Julia's vicar brother Tom, Geoff de Mornay (the owner of Crofton Hall), her friend Vivian, Vivian's Aunt Freda and Geoff's friend Iain Sumner, pull the story together and add the puzzle pieces that completes the picture of both Julia and Mariana's lives. While Mariana's tale is a compelling, tragic, but somewhat predictable love story, Julia's happy ending comes in the form of a lovely surprise, one we may have suspected at first, but brushed aside for a different outcome. I was happy to see that my first impression was correct in this case.
Mariana, like all of Ms. Kearsley's novels, pushes the envelope of reality without actually breaking through the seal. The story telling is so good that we put aside our doubts and questions and truly believe that the basis of these stories are entirely plausible. As with the other two wonderful novels I reviewed here, I didn't want to turn the last page. It's hard to find an author so adept at suspending reality and taking her readers along for the ride. I'm grateful to have found this one.
Chief Paul Protects the Public from Peep Show Perversion Second City Smut Vintage Sleaze Midget Movies
CLICK TO ENLARGE CHIEF PAUL'S HAUL OF ELECTRIC SMUT
Chicago citizens will sleep better knowing the pin-up peep shows have been unplugged by Chief Investigator Paul Newey. Since there was no other crime in the second city on this day in 1959, Chief Paul invited the press over to see his collection of confiscated coin-op smut. Paul's pursuit of the peep shows was crime-bustin' action of the highest order. To celebrate (and convince the public Newey was on top of the situation) he flicks his ashes on the filthy coin slot in distain!
Special Crossover event! (posted on Vintage Sleaze the Blog as well) Other Chicago Smut HERE
Original Press Photograph (8" x 13") Unknown Chicago Paper 1959 Collection Jim Linderman
Books and Downloads by Jim Linderman Available HERE
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Wednesday, February 15, 2012
COMMENTARY: US Must Ignore Threats by Egypt to End Its Peace Pact with Israel
Essam El-Erian -- a high-ranking Muslim Brotherhood lawmaker -- said this week that if the United States cuts its aid to Egypt, the Brotherhood will consider changing the terms of Egypt's 1979 peace treaty with Israel.
Congress last December approved $1.3 billion in military aid to Egypt for fiscal year 2012. That assistance, however, is contingent upon Egypt "supporting the transition to civilian government, including holding free and fair elections, implementing policies to protect freedom of expression, association, and religion, and due process of law."
Egypt's current military government -- which has ruled Egypt since the resignation of President Hosni Mubarak in February 2011 -- has failed to set up a democracy in Egypt. In fact, Egyptians have fewer rights under the military government than they had under Mubarak.
If Egypt's military government continues to deny Egypt's citizens the rights they deserve, the U.S. should stop its military aid to that nation.
Threats from a Muslim Brotherhood lawmaker or other Egyptians to end Egypt's peace agreement with Israel should have no effect on the U.S. decision to stop its aid.
The United States has never been blackmailed by a nation to change its foreign policy -- and it certainly will not be blackmailed by Egypt today.
Congress last December approved $1.3 billion in military aid to Egypt for fiscal year 2012. That assistance, however, is contingent upon Egypt "supporting the transition to civilian government, including holding free and fair elections, implementing policies to protect freedom of expression, association, and religion, and due process of law."
Egypt's current military government -- which has ruled Egypt since the resignation of President Hosni Mubarak in February 2011 -- has failed to set up a democracy in Egypt. In fact, Egyptians have fewer rights under the military government than they had under Mubarak.
If Egypt's military government continues to deny Egypt's citizens the rights they deserve, the U.S. should stop its military aid to that nation.
Threats from a Muslim Brotherhood lawmaker or other Egyptians to end Egypt's peace agreement with Israel should have no effect on the U.S. decision to stop its aid.
The United States has never been blackmailed by a nation to change its foreign policy -- and it certainly will not be blackmailed by Egypt today.
Deputy Who Arrested Mel Gibson Settles Lawsuit; Supervisors Made Him Delete Anti-Semitic Comments
The Big News Network website reports today (February 15, 2012) that the deputy who arrested Mel Gibson for drunk driving has settled his lawsuit -- which claimed that he suffered religious discrimination at work -- with the Sheriff's Department.
Attorneys for James Mee -- who arrested Gibson -- said a $50,000 settlement was reached and must be approved by a county claims board. A trial scheduled to begin this week was canceled.
Mee -- who is Jewish -- claimed his superiors discriminated against him after he arrested Gibson. However, the Sheriff's Department acknowledged no wrongdoing in the settlement.
Mee -- who pulled over Gibson for drunken driving in Malibu, California in 2006 -- claimed his superiors forced him to remove anti-Semitic comments from his police report that the actor made at the time of his arrest. Mee also claimed he later received negative performance reviews and was denied promotions, as a result of his arrest of Gibson.
Attorneys for James Mee -- who arrested Gibson -- said a $50,000 settlement was reached and must be approved by a county claims board. A trial scheduled to begin this week was canceled.
Mee -- who is Jewish -- claimed his superiors discriminated against him after he arrested Gibson. However, the Sheriff's Department acknowledged no wrongdoing in the settlement.
Mee -- who pulled over Gibson for drunken driving in Malibu, California in 2006 -- claimed his superiors forced him to remove anti-Semitic comments from his police report that the actor made at the time of his arrest. Mee also claimed he later received negative performance reviews and was denied promotions, as a result of his arrest of Gibson.
Muslim Refugees Are Housed in a Swiss Brothel; Men Housed Near 7 Women at the Erotic Hotel Venus
The Europe News website reports today (February 15, 2012) that 11 Muslim refugees have been housed by Swiss Social Services in a brothel in Thurgau in northeastern Switzerland.
On the ground floor of the Erotic Hotel Venus, seven Romanian and Hungarian women serve guests with drinks at the bar, or entertain them in the strip bar. If the men want additional services, the women take them to rooms on the first floor.
But sitting on the second floor -- drinking tea and trying to make plans for their future -- are 11 Muslim asylum seekers.
Beat Schlierenzauer -- the man who placed the 11 men in the brothel -- says he did not know when he first looked at the rooms that they were in a brothel. Having discovered what the rest of the building was being used for, he has avoided housing women and children in it.
On the ground floor of the Erotic Hotel Venus, seven Romanian and Hungarian women serve guests with drinks at the bar, or entertain them in the strip bar. If the men want additional services, the women take them to rooms on the first floor.
But sitting on the second floor -- drinking tea and trying to make plans for their future -- are 11 Muslim asylum seekers.
Beat Schlierenzauer -- the man who placed the 11 men in the brothel -- says he did not know when he first looked at the rooms that they were in a brothel. Having discovered what the rest of the building was being used for, he has avoided housing women and children in it.
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
Abp. of Canterbury to Meet with Pope Next Month; Will Pray Together at San Gregorio al Celio Church
The Clerical Whispers website reports today (February 14, 2012) that the Archbishop of Canterbury Rowan Williams -- who heads the Anglican Church -- will meet with Pope Benedict XVI next month in Rome.
Loss of support for the Anglican Church in recent years by a plethora of its worshipers -- due primarily to its acceptance of gay clergy and women priests -- resulted in Pope Benedict's decision in 2009 to ease the process by which Anglicans could convert to Catholicism. Pope Benedict's ruling also allows married Anglican priests to become Catholic priests.
The Anglican Church broke away from the Catholic Church in 1534 when King Henry VIII could not convince Pope Clement VII to grant him an annulment of his marriage to Catherine of Aragon.
Benedict and Williams are expected to pray together at the Church of San Gregorio al Celio, located in front of the Palatine Hill -- once the residential neighborhood of ancient Roman rulers.
Loss of support for the Anglican Church in recent years by a plethora of its worshipers -- due primarily to its acceptance of gay clergy and women priests -- resulted in Pope Benedict's decision in 2009 to ease the process by which Anglicans could convert to Catholicism. Pope Benedict's ruling also allows married Anglican priests to become Catholic priests.
The Anglican Church broke away from the Catholic Church in 1534 when King Henry VIII could not convince Pope Clement VII to grant him an annulment of his marriage to Catherine of Aragon.
Benedict and Williams are expected to pray together at the Church of San Gregorio al Celio, located in front of the Palatine Hill -- once the residential neighborhood of ancient Roman rulers.
Egypt Muslim Leader Warns US Not to Cut Its Aid; Says Doing So Can Affect Peace Treaty with Israel
The Cybercast News Service website reports today (February 14, 2012) that a top Muslim Brotherhood (MB) official has warned the United States that any cuts in U.S. aid to Egypt could affect Cairo's peace treaty with Israel.
MB lawmaker Essam el-Erian said if the U.S. cuts aid to Egypt, the MB would consider changing the terms of the peace treaty.
U.S. legislation -- signed into law last December -- ties the provision of $1.3 billion in military aid to Egypt in fiscal year 2012 to certification that the government in Cairo "is supporting the transition to civilian government, including holding free and fair elections; implementing policies to protect freedom of expression, association, and religion, and due process of law."
The U.S. has been urging Egypt to initiate a genuine democracy, but the military government -- which has ruled Egypt since the resignation of President Hosni Mubarak last February -- has become more autocratic than Mubarak had been during his 30-year dictatorial reign of Egypt.
MB lawmaker Essam el-Erian said if the U.S. cuts aid to Egypt, the MB would consider changing the terms of the peace treaty.
U.S. legislation -- signed into law last December -- ties the provision of $1.3 billion in military aid to Egypt in fiscal year 2012 to certification that the government in Cairo "is supporting the transition to civilian government, including holding free and fair elections; implementing policies to protect freedom of expression, association, and religion, and due process of law."
The U.S. has been urging Egypt to initiate a genuine democracy, but the military government -- which has ruled Egypt since the resignation of President Hosni Mubarak last February -- has become more autocratic than Mubarak had been during his 30-year dictatorial reign of Egypt.
Folk Art Painted Tintype Ferrotype Hand-Painted Means of Production and the Consumer
A circa 1880 hand-painted tintype. It is remarkable to consider the photographic process which resulted in an actual unique physical object one could hold, paint by hand and frame has gone from black and white to gone in two or three lifetimes. I haven't quite figured it out yet, but the warmth of an image may have gone with the film.
As far as the public goes, each step forward in the photographic process helped the producer become more effective (and profit more) while leaving the consumer holding less of a product in his hand. While it is an art, and it is progress... it is easy to view photography from a simple supply/demand capitalistic perspective. Dags, so beautiful and shimmering, an amazing thing folks will still circle to see at a show, turned to cruddy metal tintypes which were churned out like pizza at the shore in one lifetime.
It wasn't long before paper came and paper went. Instant photos followed and dropped the quality even further. Now the darkroom is empty and the bits and bytes which tore the guts out of reproduced music have done the same to pictures.
More and more recording artists are releasing their product once again on vinyl. As I understand it, digital music provides only a very small percentage of the aural quality not only possible, but once common. Once even standard. The consumer loses but pays more for it than ever before.
What is yet to be fully understood is what we have lost in pictures. Is the photo above particularly beautiful or desirable? Nope, not at all. But you could hold it in your hands.
"Full Plate" tintype (ferrotype) painted by hand circa 1880. Collection Jim Linderman
Dull Tool Dim Bulb Book Catalog HERE
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Czech Police Respond to Neo-Nazi Women's Group; Arrest 15 Members of Resistance Women Unity Org.
The Prague Daily Monitor website reports today (February 14, 2012) that Czech police have started criminal proceedings against 15 women believed to be part of a women's neo-Nazi organization.
Police said the women -- aged between 21 and 32 -- participated in the ideas of the neo-Nazi Resistance Women Unity (RWU) movement, which is the non-registered women's offshoot of the Nazi group National Resistance.
Some of the RWU's actions were aimed at providing help to neo-Nazi members who have already been jailed.
If the 15 women are found guilty, they could face up to eight years in prison, police said.
Police said the women -- aged between 21 and 32 -- participated in the ideas of the neo-Nazi Resistance Women Unity (RWU) movement, which is the non-registered women's offshoot of the Nazi group National Resistance.
Some of the RWU's actions were aimed at providing help to neo-Nazi members who have already been jailed.
If the 15 women are found guilty, they could face up to eight years in prison, police said.
Sedikit Memori tentang Jackson 5
kemarin Fox channel memutar film Michael Jackson : This Is It. film itu ternyata bercerita tentang proses persiapan konser Michael di London. sekilas memori saya terpanggil saat MJ menyanyikan lagu Stop! The Love You Save. dulu itu salah satu lagu favorit saya, tidak tau judulnya apa, tidak tau liriknya bagaimana, cuma tau nadanya saja :D
waktu masih duduk dibangku taman kanak2, suatu ketika bapak saya memutarkan sebuah video musik koleksinya, dan ini adalah video pertama yang saya suka [jaman segitu belum tau yang namanya Michael Jackson]. yang saya ingat, saya suka ikut menirukan gerakan kaki Michael :D dan menurut saya ini adalah bentuk wajah Michael Jackson yang paling ganteng dan seksi.....even him with his dark skin...
okay, itu video pertama yang saya lihat dari Jackson 5, live dari konser peringatan Motown yang ke 25 tahun. seee, Michael jaman dulu kaya apa, sekarang kaya apa?? untuk orang2 seangkatan saya mungkin lagu2 Jackson 5 kurang familiar di telinga, kebanyakan lebih banyak mengenal lagu2 milik Michael Jackson. tapi saya pribadi lebih suka lagu2 ini daripada lagu2 MJ
di beri nama Jackson 5, karena grup ini terdiri dari 5 kakakberadik keluarga Jackson, yaitu Jackie, Tito, Jermaine, Marlon, dan Michael. mereka membentuk grup di tahun 1964, kala itu Michael Jackson masih berumur 5 tahun. Awalnya grup ini hanya terdiri dari 3 saudara tertua Jackson (Jackie, Tito dan Jermaine) dengan nama The Jackson Brothers. tetapi setelah mengetahui kemampuan bernyanyi dan menari Michael, sang ayah menambahkan Marlon dan Michael untuk bergabung dengan grup tersebut.
sebuah fenomena mungkin, 4 single pertama mereka I Want You Back, ABC, The Love You Save, I'll Be There mencapai ranking puncak di billboard top 100.
di tahun 1976, Jackson 5 berpindah dari Motown ke CBS, tetapi Jermaine lebih memilih tetap berada di bawah naungan Motown. hal itu menyebabkan Jermaine keluar dari Jackson 5 dan digantikan dengan Randy, adik termuda mereka.
di tahun 1979, Michael mengeluarkan album solonya yang ternyata jauh lebih sukses dibandingkan dengan grupnya. tahun 1980 pun Michael meninggalkan Jackson 5. kemudian diikuti dengan Marlon yang memulai bisnis pribadinya. album Jackson pasca keluarnya Michael dan Marlon, kurang begitu berhasil mencapai target pasaran, sehingga di tahun 1989 pun mereka nonaktif. tidak pernah ada kata bubar, hanya mereka tidak aktif bernyanyi lagi.
nice to be remembered....sampai sekarang, tiap nonton konser2 MJ, yang saya tunggu adalah medley dari 4 hits Jackson 5.
waktu masih duduk dibangku taman kanak2, suatu ketika bapak saya memutarkan sebuah video musik koleksinya, dan ini adalah video pertama yang saya suka [jaman segitu belum tau yang namanya Michael Jackson]. yang saya ingat, saya suka ikut menirukan gerakan kaki Michael :D dan menurut saya ini adalah bentuk wajah Michael Jackson yang paling ganteng dan seksi.....even him with his dark skin...
okay, itu video pertama yang saya lihat dari Jackson 5, live dari konser peringatan Motown yang ke 25 tahun. seee, Michael jaman dulu kaya apa, sekarang kaya apa?? untuk orang2 seangkatan saya mungkin lagu2 Jackson 5 kurang familiar di telinga, kebanyakan lebih banyak mengenal lagu2 milik Michael Jackson. tapi saya pribadi lebih suka lagu2 ini daripada lagu2 MJ
sebuah fenomena mungkin, 4 single pertama mereka I Want You Back, ABC, The Love You Save, I'll Be There mencapai ranking puncak di billboard top 100.
di tahun 1976, Jackson 5 berpindah dari Motown ke CBS, tetapi Jermaine lebih memilih tetap berada di bawah naungan Motown. hal itu menyebabkan Jermaine keluar dari Jackson 5 dan digantikan dengan Randy, adik termuda mereka.
di tahun 1979, Michael mengeluarkan album solonya yang ternyata jauh lebih sukses dibandingkan dengan grupnya. tahun 1980 pun Michael meninggalkan Jackson 5. kemudian diikuti dengan Marlon yang memulai bisnis pribadinya. album Jackson pasca keluarnya Michael dan Marlon, kurang begitu berhasil mencapai target pasaran, sehingga di tahun 1989 pun mereka nonaktif. tidak pernah ada kata bubar, hanya mereka tidak aktif bernyanyi lagi.
nice to be remembered....sampai sekarang, tiap nonton konser2 MJ, yang saya tunggu adalah medley dari 4 hits Jackson 5.
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