SOMALIA FORCES RETAKE CAPITAL FROM ISLAMIC MILITANTS
“Just hours after Islamist fighters abandoned Mogadishu, the capital from which they ruled much of Somalia, thousands of troops of the transitional government moved into the city on Thursday in a stunning reversal of fortune” (New York Times). However, one expert cautioned: “This does not mean the U.I.C. is finished. The U.I.C. fighters simply changed their uniform to civilian cloth.” In breaking news, the Associated Press reports that “Islamic Leader Vows to Stay in Somalia.”
HUSSEIN EXECUTION IMMINENT
Iraqi officials indicate to U.S. that the execution will probably take place as early as Saturday (New York Times). Meanwhile, the Vatican is urging that Saddam not be executed.
State Supreme Court Upholds Fetal Homicide Law
In a refreshing change from most court actions regarding Pro-Life issues, the Pennsylvania Supreme Court upheld the constitutionality of the fetal homicide law that had been challenged in Wilkes-Barre.
The defense in this case argued that the state’s fetal homicide law was too vague because it did not require the fetus to be viable outside the womb.
The court found that the act’s definition of life to include all stages of gestation was straightforward and easily understandable by an average person.
The defense in this case argued that the state’s fetal homicide law was too vague because it did not require the fetus to be viable outside the womb.
The court found that the act’s definition of life to include all stages of gestation was straightforward and easily understandable by an average person.
Senate considering clearer view of its work
Responding to voter outrage over the lack of openness in the legislative process, the state Senate next week is expected to adopt new rules aimed at making "dramatic changes" in the way the chamber operates. Read More
Kwanzaa Exposed
On the observance of the 40th anniversary of Kwanzaa (celebrated Dec. 26 to Jan. 1) Rev. Jesse Lee Peterson, founder and president of BOND, the Brotherhood Organization of a New Destiny, is calling on blacks to abandon this “godless holiday.” Kwanzaa was founded by Maulana Karenga in 1966 to “help blacks get in touch with their African roots.” Karenga is a violent ex-con who served time in prison for torturing two women. He was also the head of the United Slaves Organization, a violent “black power” group. The following are some of the so-called “principles” of Kwanzaa and the truth about what they represent:
Umoja (unity) To maintain black unity.Kujichagulia (self-determination)
Black separatism— and in this case, separatism apart from whites.
Ujima (collective work and responsibility) Group thinking.
Ujamaa (cooperative economics) Code for socialism.
Imani (faith) The worship of false gods or no god at all (includes ancestor worship).
Rev. Peterson said, “Kwanzaa was designed to separate blacks from Christmas and Christianity. Kwanzaa is anti-white and anti-American. Black Americans need to make a choice between the Prince of Peace and the Marxist Karenga.” Rev. Jesse Lee Peterson is the author of the hard hitting book “SCAM: How the Black Leadership Exploits Black America” (Nelson Current). BOND (Brotherhood Organization of a New Destiny) is a national nonprofit organization founded for the purpose of “rebuilding the family by rebuilding the man.” For more information, visit www.bondifno.org
Umoja (unity) To maintain black unity.Kujichagulia (self-determination)
Black separatism— and in this case, separatism apart from whites.
Ujima (collective work and responsibility) Group thinking.
Ujamaa (cooperative economics) Code for socialism.
Imani (faith) The worship of false gods or no god at all (includes ancestor worship).
Rev. Peterson said, “Kwanzaa was designed to separate blacks from Christmas and Christianity. Kwanzaa is anti-white and anti-American. Black Americans need to make a choice between the Prince of Peace and the Marxist Karenga.” Rev. Jesse Lee Peterson is the author of the hard hitting book “SCAM: How the Black Leadership Exploits Black America” (Nelson Current). BOND (Brotherhood Organization of a New Destiny) is a national nonprofit organization founded for the purpose of “rebuilding the family by rebuilding the man.” For more information, visit www.bondifno.org
President Ford Dies At 93
Although Gerald Ford served as president for less than 29 months, it was during the most turbulent of times.
The fall of Vietnam, two separate presidential assassination attempts, the seizure of the American merchant ship Mayaguez by the Cambodian government, and the famous Nixon pardon shaped the legacy of the 38th president.
Regarding his controversial Presidential Pardon of President Richard Nixon, Ford stated:
"I did it not for Nixon but for the country. I knew at the time it would probably cost me my re-election, but President Nixon's legal team could advance constitutional arguments that could tie up the courts for years. The prospect that a former president could face jail time would divert the country's attention ... I had to turn the page and let the healing process begin." Read more...
The fall of Vietnam, two separate presidential assassination attempts, the seizure of the American merchant ship Mayaguez by the Cambodian government, and the famous Nixon pardon shaped the legacy of the 38th president.
Regarding his controversial Presidential Pardon of President Richard Nixon, Ford stated:
"I did it not for Nixon but for the country. I knew at the time it would probably cost me my re-election, but President Nixon's legal team could advance constitutional arguments that could tie up the courts for years. The prospect that a former president could face jail time would divert the country's attention ... I had to turn the page and let the healing process begin." Read more...
GOP To Try To Downsize City Council
In 1990, Pittsburgh’s population was 369,879. In that same year, the Pittsburgh City Council established nine seats.
Almost seventeen years later, Pittsburgh’s population has dropped over 14%, to 316,718. Should the Pittsburgh City Council reflect this change, dropping to seven seats?
The Pittsburgh GOP, in hopes to garner the first Republican City Council seat in some 70 years, is pushing for this change. They want two of the proposed seven seats to be elected at large. Read more...
Almost seventeen years later, Pittsburgh’s population has dropped over 14%, to 316,718. Should the Pittsburgh City Council reflect this change, dropping to seven seats?
The Pittsburgh GOP, in hopes to garner the first Republican City Council seat in some 70 years, is pushing for this change. They want two of the proposed seven seats to be elected at large. Read more...
For Ridge, new global designs
WASHINGTON - After nearly a quarter-century in public service, former Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Ridge was contemplating... more public service. The phone number of his new office seemed a dead giveaway, seven digits ending in -2008. But Ridge, disappointing many advisers, has decided the time is not right for a run at the White House. Read More
Pa. to become big casino state in 2007
A hectic and historic 2006 has pushed Pennsylvania closer to becoming one of the nation's biggest commercial gambling states. Read More
Grand Ayatollah Ali Sistani dead?
We are picking up unconfirmed reports that leading Shi'ite leader Grand Ayatollah Ali Sistani is dead. This hasn’t been confirmed yet by any of the major news services at this time. We will continue to monitor this as this could be a major event in the ongoing bloody conflict between Sunni Muslims and Shi’ite Muslims in the Baghdad area and across Iraq.
Sistani was known for his more peaceful approach to resolving disagreement as opposed to his Shi'ite counterpart Muqtada al-Sadr who has been burning Sunni Mosques and terrorizing Sunni neighborhoods in his personal power struggle within Iraq. The Sunni have equally retaliated in bombings, murders and terror.
Current information suggests that the residence of the deceased elderly Shi'ite leader is on lockdown and surrounded by US forces.
Sistani was known for his more peaceful approach to resolving disagreement as opposed to his Shi'ite counterpart Muqtada al-Sadr who has been burning Sunni Mosques and terrorizing Sunni neighborhoods in his personal power struggle within Iraq. The Sunni have equally retaliated in bombings, murders and terror.
Current information suggests that the residence of the deceased elderly Shi'ite leader is on lockdown and surrounded by US forces.
Obama More Pro-Choice Than NARAL
Sen. Barack Obama (D.-Ill.) portrays himself as a thoughtful Democrat who carefully considers both sides of controversial issues, but his radical stance on abortion puts him further left on that issue than even NARAL Pro-Choice America.
In 2002, as an Illinois legislator, Obama voted against the Induced Infant Liability Act, which would have protected babies that survived late-term abortions. That same year a similar federal law, the Born Alive Infant Protection Act, was signed by President Bush. Only 15 members of the U.S. House opposed it, and it passed the Senate unanimously on a voice vote.
When the federal bill was being debated, NARAL Pro-Choice America released a statement that said, “Consistent with our position last year, NARAL does not oppose passage of the Born Alive Infants Protection Act ... floor debate served to clarify the bill’s intent and assure us that it is not targeted at Roe v. Wade or a woman’s right to choose.”
Human Events
In 2002, as an Illinois legislator, Obama voted against the Induced Infant Liability Act, which would have protected babies that survived late-term abortions. That same year a similar federal law, the Born Alive Infant Protection Act, was signed by President Bush. Only 15 members of the U.S. House opposed it, and it passed the Senate unanimously on a voice vote.
When the federal bill was being debated, NARAL Pro-Choice America released a statement that said, “Consistent with our position last year, NARAL does not oppose passage of the Born Alive Infants Protection Act ... floor debate served to clarify the bill’s intent and assure us that it is not targeted at Roe v. Wade or a woman’s right to choose.”
Human Events
Pelosi's Four-Day 'Coronation'
(CNSNews.com) - The swearing-in of Rep. Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) as the first female speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives next week will be the focus of four days of concerts, church services and fund-raising events that conservative analysts called a "coronation" that will emphasize partying over policy. Full Story
SHELBY STEELE ASKS: RACISM—FACT OR FAITH?
In a provocative article over the weekend Shelby Steele of The Hoover Institution argues that “While racism continues to exist, it no longer stunts the lives of blacks” in America. Steele explains, with Sowellian logic (cf. Thomas Sowell’s “The Vision of the Anointed”), why this is not conventional wisdom: “Yet a belief in the ongoing power of racism is, today, an article of faith for ‘good’ whites and ‘truth-telling’ blacks. It is heresy for any white or black to say openly that, today, underdevelopment and broken families are vastly greater problems for blacks than racism, even though this is obviously true. The problem is that this truth blames the victim. It suggests that black progress will come more from black effort than from white goodwill—even though white oppression caused the underdevelopment in the first place” (Los Angeles Times). Steele concludes: “Today we live in a terrible ignorance that will no doubt last until we take race out of every aspect of public life—until we learn, as we did with religion, to separate it from the state.” For a counter-point see Goodwin Liu’s LAT op-ed, “The Meaning of Brown vs. the Board.”
IRAN VOWS TO SPEED UP URANIUM ENRICHMENT
In spite of the recent United Nations sanctions (U.N. Resolution 1737) on Iran for its nuclear defiance, Iran’s parliament voted on Sunday to urge Ahmadinejad’s administration to revise its cooperation with the IAEA. According to The Associated Press report, many legislators chanted “Death to America” after the vote. The Washington Post outlines the U.N. sanctions on Iran while noting Russia’s resistance to tougher measures.
Farewell Godfather of Soul
I was saddened to hear James Brown whose hit songs such as "Papa's Got a Brand New Bag" and "Cold Sweat" helped make him one of the most influential singers of the second half of the 20th century and an icon of African-American pride, died in Atlanta.Years ago I had the pleasure of meeting James Brown. He pulled up to Three Rivers Stadium in a strech limo about a block long, with strobe lights and a hot tub in the back. "Godfather of Soul" painted on the back. No subtle entrance fo him.
Despite his personal and legal troubles over the years, the man knew how to put on show. His music is forever part of the soundtrack of America. We have lost another great talent.
Merry Christmas to You
I wanted to take a moment to wish you all a blessed Christmas and the best in 2007! Most of you I have never met but it is so nice to come here and read comments, thoughts and ideas. I'm happy to wlecome Jim Powers as a new contributor and looking forward to reading his posts.
It's been a great year. We launched a new tlak show and we will continue to develop the John & Stephanie show in the new year.
I've been talkng to the base commander at NORAD. PowerBlog! has teamed up with NORAD to track Santa this year. They will have fighter jets escort him though the North American Airspace and you may even get see Santa on the webcam.
I invite you to log on to PowerBlog! on Christmas Eve to find out where he is.
MERRY CHRISTMAS!
Catholic hospital nixes 'Merry Christmas'
Well Bah Humbug Sister Mary Scrooge!
Nun: 'We have to create an environment in which all feel comfortable' --St. Petersburg Times, Florida
Nun: 'We have to create an environment in which all feel comfortable' --St. Petersburg Times, Florida
Radio Waves: KDKA UNPLUGS ANOTHER ONE
If this keeps up I'll need an entire blog to chronicle the demise of KDKA radio.
The latest: KDKA Radio is parting ways with John McIntire, the ultra liberal and on off the air "potty mouth" that used to host a talk show.
McIntire said he'll host The Flip Side -- an evening program -- for the last time Dec. 29. He joined the radio station after parting ways with PCNC's NightTalk show in 2003.
Starting Jan. 2, news/talk KDKA-AM (1020) will add an hour to its "Five O'Clock Total News Hour," which now will run weekdays from 5 to 7 p.m. The station also will pick up the syndicated Neal Boortz talk show, which will run evenings from 7 to 10 p.m. Yawn.....
The changes displace the one-hour 6 p.m. sports talk show with KDKA sports director Jeff Hatthorn and Post-Gazette columnist Gene Collier, and John McIntire's weeknight talk show.
So where do you go when your are tossed from a sinking ship? Maybe another sinking ship... One possible candidate for McIntire's show is KDKA sister station WRKZ-FM. Former WDVE-FM host Scott Paulsen will be hosting a talk show there starting in April, when the non-compete clause in his contract expires. This goes from bad to worse! 2007 should be very interesting.
The latest: KDKA Radio is parting ways with John McIntire, the ultra liberal and on off the air "potty mouth" that used to host a talk show.
McIntire said he'll host The Flip Side -- an evening program -- for the last time Dec. 29. He joined the radio station after parting ways with PCNC's NightTalk show in 2003.
Starting Jan. 2, news/talk KDKA-AM (1020) will add an hour to its "Five O'Clock Total News Hour," which now will run weekdays from 5 to 7 p.m. The station also will pick up the syndicated Neal Boortz talk show, which will run evenings from 7 to 10 p.m. Yawn.....
The changes displace the one-hour 6 p.m. sports talk show with KDKA sports director Jeff Hatthorn and Post-Gazette columnist Gene Collier, and John McIntire's weeknight talk show.
So where do you go when your are tossed from a sinking ship? Maybe another sinking ship... One possible candidate for McIntire's show is KDKA sister station WRKZ-FM. Former WDVE-FM host Scott Paulsen will be hosting a talk show there starting in April, when the non-compete clause in his contract expires. This goes from bad to worse! 2007 should be very interesting.
DANIEL HENNINGER DISCUSSES “DOGMA WITHOUT GOD”
Henninger argues in today’s Wall Street Journal that the current chorus of militant atheists (e.g. Richard Dawkins, Sam Harris, Steven Pinker, Daniel Dennett, et.al.) only serves to undermine civic virtue in America. He concludes: “Atheists and the unchurched undervalue the extent to which they are getting a free ride on the social strength that religious-based virtue provides. It’s one thing to write in a book that we don’t need them. But I’d rather not run the real-world experiment of navigating without them” (Wall Street Journal). In other religion commentary, Gerard Baker catalogues many of the ways that 2006 was good for religious conflict and atheism and Albert Mohler discusses who the Son of God is at the Newsweek/Washington Post “On Faith” blog.
N. KOREA NUCLEAR TALKS END WITH NO DEAL
After a week of six-party talks (U.S., N. Korea, S. Korea, China, Japan and Russia) diplomatic efforts to persuade North Korea to scrap its nuclear weapons ended with no deal. No date has been set for the talks to resume (Reuters).
LAWMAKER STANDS FIRM ON KORAN CRITICISM
Rep. Virgil Goode, Jr. (R-VA), under fire from a civil rights group and some colleagues, said on Thursday that he will not retract a letter warning about more Muslims being elected if immigration laws were not strengthened (Fox News). The New York Times today revisits Dennis Prager’s criticisms of Rep.-elect Keith Ellison (D-MN) in “Holocaust Museum Rebukes Member for Koran Comment.” For background on this story and a link to Mr. Goode’s letter see Tom Zeller, Jr. at “The Lede.” Meanwhile, the Wall Street Journal editorializes on “Meatpacking raids, Mitt Romney and Other Immigration Follies.”
Projected Slots Revenue
Much has been made over the last 24 hours of the casino license granted to Majestic’s proposed North Shore casino. Speculation abounds on the possible affects on the Steelers, Pirates, Penguins and projects such as the North Shore Connector. In addition, possible appeals of the Gaming Board’s decisions will dominate the news cycle leading up to the holidays.
However, let’s keep in mind that when slots were first approved in 2004, the stated goal was to generate property tax relief, not to placate sports teams.
Returning to the original premise - now that a slot license has been awarded in Pittsburgh, how much property tax relief can Pennsylvanians expect and at what cost?
What eventually came out of the slots legislation is a projected average of $339 reduction in property taxes per household in PA. In order to realize an average of $339 reduction in property taxes, each household in PA must wager $6,289 a year in casinos. ($30 billion must be wagered to produce $3 billion in projected annual revenue at 10 to 1 odds, divided by 4.77 million households in PA.)
Some people will pin their hopes on out-of-state gamblers who will help casinos reach the $30 billion threshold, lightening the load on residents of Pennsylvania. Yes, there will no doubt be some out-of-state gamblers in the mix. But with Atlantic City to the east and Wheeling to the west, and the possibility of Ohio also legalizing slots, will PA pick up any significant interstate gambling traffic?
Aside from the social, economic and spiritual costs, the chances of achieving the numbers required for even the modest projected property tax reduction do not make for a good bet.
However, let’s keep in mind that when slots were first approved in 2004, the stated goal was to generate property tax relief, not to placate sports teams.
Returning to the original premise - now that a slot license has been awarded in Pittsburgh, how much property tax relief can Pennsylvanians expect and at what cost?
What eventually came out of the slots legislation is a projected average of $339 reduction in property taxes per household in PA. In order to realize an average of $339 reduction in property taxes, each household in PA must wager $6,289 a year in casinos. ($30 billion must be wagered to produce $3 billion in projected annual revenue at 10 to 1 odds, divided by 4.77 million households in PA.)
Some people will pin their hopes on out-of-state gamblers who will help casinos reach the $30 billion threshold, lightening the load on residents of Pennsylvania. Yes, there will no doubt be some out-of-state gamblers in the mix. But with Atlantic City to the east and Wheeling to the west, and the possibility of Ohio also legalizing slots, will PA pick up any significant interstate gambling traffic?
Aside from the social, economic and spiritual costs, the chances of achieving the numbers required for even the modest projected property tax reduction do not make for a good bet.
Spiritual Rape
For the second time this week, Michael Reagan, eldest son of President Ronald Reagan, is speaking out on his national radio program about the controversy taking place at Bellevue Baptist Church in Memphis, TN. Mike calls on Pastor Steve Gaines to resign. Mike also shares an e-mail from a Bellevue member that describes her experience as "spiritual rape" Listen to a nine minute clip
MILITANT ISLAMIC LEADERS IN SOMALIA CALL FOR “HOLY WAR”
The Lede: “Clashes between Islamic fighters and Ethiopian-backed government soldiers heightened fears Wednesday that Somalia is inching toward a civil war that could drag in the entire Horn of Africa” (Los Angeles Times). According to the story, militant Islamic leaders are calling for a “holy war” against Christian-dominated Ethiopia.
FUROR IN ITALY OVER “GAY NATIVITY” IN PARLIAMENT
The Lede: “Two leftists in Italy’s ruling coalition on Wednesday outraged fellow lawmakers by placing four dolls representing homosexual couples near the baby Jesus in the official nativity scene in parliament.” The goal with this tasteless gesture? To “promote the legalization of gay marriage and granting legal recognition to unmarried couples” (Reuters). Meanwhile, the nativity scene is back in Chicago, the Associated Press reports that “Wiccans Aren’t Just Witches” and Barna lists “The 12 Most Significant Religious Findings From 2006 Surveys.” Merry Christmas.
CNN DISCUSSES CHRISTIANITY ‘AFTER JESUS’
Just in time for Christmas, CNN Wednesday night presented a major news production entitled “CNN Presents: After Jesus”. Narrated by actor Liam Neeson (of Aslan fame), the program was described as an investigation of “how the earliest Christians spread their message despite infighting over the faith and violent persecution by Rome.” Albert Mohler offers an exhaustive critique of the program noting CNN’s unfortunate use of hyperbole and political correctness in telling the story of Christianity’s early years. In addition, Dr. Mohler faults CNN for their blatant omission of an evangelical Bible scholar on its panel of experts. That said, Dr. Mohler concludes: “Nevertheless, when the entire program is viewed, I would judge the project to be more even-handed and responsible than I had at first expected.” For helpful links to the CNN promotional material, panelists and talking points visit Dr. Mohler’s blog at AlbertMohler.com.
Jackpot? Casino coming to North Shore
A Casino coming to the North Shore. A few years ago it was the "North Side" now it's the suave sounding "North Shore" and joining PNC Park and Hienz Field will be a shinny new Slots Casino.
The Pennsylvania gaming control board awarded PITG Gaming's Majestic Star Casino on the North Side the one stand-alone casino license for Pittsburgh. The board also selected two for Philadelphia.
PITG plans to build a slot machine parlor on the North Side near the Carnegie Science Center. The board rejected proposals from Isle of Capri, which wanted to build a parlor in the Hill District, and Forest City Enterprises, which set its sights on Station Square.
This story is devloping. As for plans for a new arena, this deal provides only $7.5 million a year for 30 years to support construction of a new arena for the Penguins.
The paln is for a $450 million facility between the Carnegie Science Center and the West End Bridge. Plans call for the 400,000 square-foot casino to house a cylindrical glass atrium, four restaurants, three lounges, bars, shops and, of course, rows and rows of slot machines. Construction should take 14 months, meaning it will be open by spring 2008.
The Pennsylvania gaming control board awarded PITG Gaming's Majestic Star Casino on the North Side the one stand-alone casino license for Pittsburgh. The board also selected two for Philadelphia.
PITG plans to build a slot machine parlor on the North Side near the Carnegie Science Center. The board rejected proposals from Isle of Capri, which wanted to build a parlor in the Hill District, and Forest City Enterprises, which set its sights on Station Square.
This story is devloping. As for plans for a new arena, this deal provides only $7.5 million a year for 30 years to support construction of a new arena for the Penguins.
The paln is for a $450 million facility between the Carnegie Science Center and the West End Bridge. Plans call for the 400,000 square-foot casino to house a cylindrical glass atrium, four restaurants, three lounges, bars, shops and, of course, rows and rows of slot machines. Construction should take 14 months, meaning it will be open by spring 2008.
Do As I Say Not As I Do
Former State Rep. Mark McNaughton a vocal critic of gambling, won nearly $15,500 between 2003 and 2005 in Las Vegas and Atlantic City.
He reported the winnings on his federal tax returns, but not on his Pennsylvania statement of financial interest, which state legislators and many other officials must file annually as a way of informing the public about their sources of income. He also has been appointed to the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board.
McNaughton, who retired Nov. 30 after 10 years in the House, was nominated to the seven-seat gaming board that same day by House Speaker John M. Perzel (R., Phila.).
During his five terms in the House, McNaughton, a conservative Republican from Dauphin County, voted against nearly all efforts to expand gambling, including the 2004 law that legalized slots.
Read More
He reported the winnings on his federal tax returns, but not on his Pennsylvania statement of financial interest, which state legislators and many other officials must file annually as a way of informing the public about their sources of income. He also has been appointed to the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board.
McNaughton, who retired Nov. 30 after 10 years in the House, was nominated to the seven-seat gaming board that same day by House Speaker John M. Perzel (R., Phila.).
During his five terms in the House, McNaughton, a conservative Republican from Dauphin County, voted against nearly all efforts to expand gambling, including the 2004 law that legalized slots.
Read More
Radio Waves
Early in the week I posted a story on the death of KDKA. Well some ratings have come out that prove my point. KDKA slipped down into 3rd place on the second round of the 12+ Fall Arbitrends. Slipping just slightly ahead of its sister to second place is WDSY. It's not really that WDSY is doing things right, KDKA is just doing things wrong.
WDVE has held first place in the 12+ category for about a year now. FM Talker WPGB continues to climb in the ratings while BOB-FM remains stable. WORD FM is up thanks to all of you!
In other news, The POST-GAZETTE reports that after two decades at WDVE/PITTSBURGH, SCOTT PAULSEN has left to launch a new show on CBS RADIO WRKZ (93.7 K-ROCK). PAULSEN's contract with CLEAR CHANNEL ended in SEPTEMBER, and his last broadcast there was FRIDAY (12/15). Because of a non-compete clause in his contract, he won't be able to launch his K-ROCK show until APRIL.
Paulsen will join two boring and often offensive syndicated talk shows, Opie and Anthony during morning drive and Kidd Chris during afternoon drive. I'm certian I've killed brain cells the few times I've listened.
I like Scott. He is talented but I don't think he is going to the right station and I would not recomend anyone working with the current management over there. (I warned you Scott)
Will all this be enough to save this sad little station? My guess is there will be some buzz but not enough to raise the sunken ship. And so music radio in the Burg' continues to suck eggs and howl at the moon.
WDVE has held first place in the 12+ category for about a year now. FM Talker WPGB continues to climb in the ratings while BOB-FM remains stable. WORD FM is up thanks to all of you!
In other news, The POST-GAZETTE reports that after two decades at WDVE/PITTSBURGH, SCOTT PAULSEN has left to launch a new show on CBS RADIO WRKZ (93.7 K-ROCK). PAULSEN's contract with CLEAR CHANNEL ended in SEPTEMBER, and his last broadcast there was FRIDAY (12/15). Because of a non-compete clause in his contract, he won't be able to launch his K-ROCK show until APRIL.
Paulsen will join two boring and often offensive syndicated talk shows, Opie and Anthony during morning drive and Kidd Chris during afternoon drive. I'm certian I've killed brain cells the few times I've listened.
I like Scott. He is talented but I don't think he is going to the right station and I would not recomend anyone working with the current management over there. (I warned you Scott)
Will all this be enough to save this sad little station? My guess is there will be some buzz but not enough to raise the sunken ship. And so music radio in the Burg' continues to suck eggs and howl at the moon.
Bunny with Agenda Back on PBS
He's the traveling bunny Buster, star of "Postcards From Buster," and he is back on PBS. So what? Who's Buster?Buster caused a ruckus in 2005 when he paid a visit to a family in Vermont that had two mommies. Education Secretary Margaret Spellings took issue, and that set off some Christian coalitions.
Buster went away for awile and the attention the coalitions was diverted. His return begs the question, whill he behave this time?
After the "Sugartime!" episode, in which Buster visited that Vermont family during maple sugar season, the American Family Association, a conservative Christian group organized by the Rev. Donald Wildmon, started an e-mail campaign. To make matters worse for the show's producers, funding dried up and production went on hiatus. But now WGBH has managed to raise money for 10 new episodes.
When the producers pitched the new season, they did not assure their potential benefactors that there wouldn't be another episode that might raise eyebrows. Nor do the show's producers worry about potential reaction from the American Family Association.
Careful Buster, they are watching you.
ABC News
DEMOCRATS MAY AVOID CONVENTION IN DENVER DUE TO UNION PROBLEMS
They want a very un-Democratic “no-strike agreement.” And the unions want all the work.
Rocky Mountain News
Rocky Mountain News
ALL ARE HAVING PRE-MARITAL SEX
I bet you didn't know that. The Planned Parenthood created Guttmacher Institute, which this USA Today story simply identified as “a New York City-based non-profit organization that studies reproductive and sexual health” claims almost everyone has premarital sex so (here comes the agenda) abstinence is unrealistic. (USA Today) On their website, Guttmacher boasts “The Institute's mission is to protect the reproductive choices of all women and men in the United States and throughout the world.” How did the media miss that? (Guttmacher) The media did this with an earlier Guttmacher bit of propaganda with the Washington Post story calling them “nonpartisan,” later calling them “a privately funded research group that focuses on sexual health and family issues.” This “study” insisted state funding cuts caused unintended pregnancies. (Washington Post) In January of 2005, a Guttmacher “study” insisted parental notification of contraceptives will lead to unsafe sex. (Guttmacher) A quick glance at their “media center” reveals their left-wing abortion/teen sex-obsessed bias. (Guttmacher) Who’s Guttmacher? “He served as president of Planned Parenthood and vice-president of the American Eugenics Society, founded the Association for the Study of Abortion in 1964, was a member of the Association for Voluntary Sterilization and had the Guttmacher Institute named after him.” (Wikipedia)
Plethora of local public pensions in Pa. adds costs, burdens
Taxpayers in Pennsylvania support more municipal pension plans than in any other state, an inefficient system that has resulted in high administrative costs and what experts say are sometimes bewildering investment decisions. Read More
Odd News: “FEMALE” RUNNER FAILS GENDER TESTS
In a remarkable display of overkill, it took “a gynecologist, endocrinologist, psychologist and internal medicine specialist” to determine Indian runner Shanti Sounderajan wasn’t female due to “more Y chromosomes than allowed.” That would ruin your day! I suggest playing Areosmiths' "Dude Looks Like A Lady" while reading the full article.AP
THE VIEW’S JOY BEHAR COMPARES RUMSFELD TO HITLER
The View manages to make news again with far-left lunacy. (FOX News)
SMALL FUEL-EFFICIENT CARS UNSAFE
Compared to the larger vehicles. But will they ban them as they do cigarettes and trans fat?Boston Globe
TAX INCREASES COULD BE COMING
From the story: …the House's top Republican on tax cuts, outgoing Ways and Means Committee Chairman Bill Thomas, warned last week that the White House has hinted that it will accept a tax increase on higher-income families in order to win accommodations from Democrats. (Washington Times) From Jack Kemp: Everyone please "read these words carefully," Bush didn't cut taxes, he cut tax rates! (Townhall)
REPUBLICAN PRINCIPLES TO CHANGE?
A resolution has been drafted to change the Pennsylvania Republican State Committee’s Statement of Principles. Should the resolution pass at the next Republican State Committee meeting in February, the Republican Party may look very different than the one today.
The original principle “The sanctity of human life is fundamental. Life has inherent dignity.” will be replaced with “...limited government intrusion into private lives”. We all know what this means – abortion is now OK because it is a private issue.
The resolution to change the Principles Statement was drafted by the daughter of Senator Arlen Specter, and will be pushed by those Republican Committee members from the southeast.
Read more...
The original principle “The sanctity of human life is fundamental. Life has inherent dignity.” will be replaced with “...limited government intrusion into private lives”. We all know what this means – abortion is now OK because it is a private issue.
The resolution to change the Principles Statement was drafted by the daughter of Senator Arlen Specter, and will be pushed by those Republican Committee members from the southeast.
Read more...
Legal skeletons in your closet may go online
New state rules will give the public instant online access to court records, including charges later dropped or arrests never resulting in conviction. The change is raising privacy concerns. Read More
YOGA GOES MAIN$TREAM
It’s a $3 billion a year industry and over 16 million Americans regularly practice Yoga (Columbia Journalism Review).
“PORNOGRAPHIC DANCING”
High Schools in New York dealing with sexually explicit dancing (New York Times). The article highlights 16-year-old student Emily Bragdon: “She likes to freak dance and does not see anything wrong with it. ‘I try to keep it so that if a little kid was watching, he wouldn’t be disgusted,’ she said. ‘But other people don’t keep it PG. For our generation, sex is more casual. It sounds bad to say, but it’s true.’”
“MY FATHER WAS AN ANONYMOUS SPERM DONOR”
18-year-old tells her heart-wrenching story of being a “donor baby” and the moral/ethical issues anonymous sperm donation raises (Washington Post). David Frum at NRO opines on this story and concludes: "I happened to read this story as we were preparing for our youngest's fifth birthday party. Maybe that's why it wrung my heart. Or maybe ... it really is just that damn sad".
TEACHER ACCUSED OF “POISONING STUDENTS” WITH EVANGELICAL PREACHING
A lawsuit is being threatened by the father of a student who recorded several of the “sermons” (New York Times). Interestingly, the article notes that most students and community members have sided with the teacher.
EPISCOPALIANS EXPERIENCING REVOLT
7 Virginia Episcopal parishes vote to sever ties (Washington Post). The revolt comes after prolonged disputes in the Episcopal Church, USA over same-sex unions and the overall liberal drift of the denomination. Just two weeks ago the entire diocese in San Joaquin, CA voted to break with The Episcopal Church.
HAMAS AND FATAH AGREE TO END HOSTILITIES
But violence appears to be persisting (Washington Post). The “truce” came amidst calls by Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas for new elections that would challenge Hamas as the Palestinian ruling party (CBS). Meanwhile, North Korea is Defiant at Start of Nuclear Talks (AP). Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice gave an interview to Reuters just prior to the resumption of the six-party talks.
Clear Channel $18.7 billion go-private Deal
We learn that buyout partners Thomas H. Lee and Bain Capital must convert their voting interests in Cumulus Media Partners to non-attributable stakes under the FCC rules. Ditto for "Tom Lee" with its 23.14% voting interest in the new entity that's acquiring Univision. Private equity funds have replaced the public markets in terms of making multi-billion dollar investments in radio - and sometimes that creates conflicts.
Here in Pittsburgh, I hear Clear Channel was handing out pink slips for Christmas on Friday. No word on how many, but some will be looking for a new job in the new year.
PA GAMING BOARD $$$
Let’s close our books and pull out a clean sheet of paper for a pop quiz:
1. Who is paid more per year:
A. Governor Ed Rendell
B. Gloria Anne Neeb, Executive Director, PA Gaming Control Board
2. Who is paid more per year:
A. State Attorney General Tom Corbett
B. David Kwait, Director of Investigations and Enforcement, PA Gaming Control Board
3. Who is paid more per year:
A. Lt. Governor Catherine Baker Knoll
B. Thomas Decker, PA Gaming Control Board Chairman, along with 6 other board members
If you answered “B” to all three questions, move to the head of the class.
1. Who is paid more per year:
A. Governor Ed Rendell
B. Gloria Anne Neeb, Executive Director, PA Gaming Control Board
2. Who is paid more per year:
A. State Attorney General Tom Corbett
B. David Kwait, Director of Investigations and Enforcement, PA Gaming Control Board
3. Who is paid more per year:
A. Lt. Governor Catherine Baker Knoll
B. Thomas Decker, PA Gaming Control Board Chairman, along with 6 other board members
If you answered “B” to all three questions, move to the head of the class.
IN INDIA: 10 MILLION GIRLS KILLED IN 20 YEARS
KERRY: WE SHOULD TALK TO SYRIA AND IRAN
Kerry is in the Middle East criticizing the United States. (Reuters)
Speaking of which, Rice rejected the ISG’s call to get help from Iran and Syria. (Washington Post) From Mitt Romney: I have no quarrel with talking, especially if it yields valuable intelligence and insight about an adversary. But that’s a far cry from actually negotiating with Iran, which sponsors Hezbollah, has nuclear ambitions, and has been clear in its intention to wipe our ally Israel off the map. And Syria is systematically undermining the sovereignty of Lebanon and funding and arming terrorists. Any suggestion that we might trade something for their help or forbearance is out of the question. (NRO) Krauthammer explains why the ISG report “has invited ridicule.” (Townhall)
Speaking of which, Rice rejected the ISG’s call to get help from Iran and Syria. (Washington Post) From Mitt Romney: I have no quarrel with talking, especially if it yields valuable intelligence and insight about an adversary. But that’s a far cry from actually negotiating with Iran, which sponsors Hezbollah, has nuclear ambitions, and has been clear in its intention to wipe our ally Israel off the map. And Syria is systematically undermining the sovereignty of Lebanon and funding and arming terrorists. Any suggestion that we might trade something for their help or forbearance is out of the question. (NRO) Krauthammer explains why the ISG report “has invited ridicule.” (Townhall)
Abuse of Young Women by Planned Parenthood
On Wednesday, Dec 6, 2006 Planned Parenthood of Southeastern Pennsylvania (PPSP) distributed free "emergency contraceptives" to women of all ages. Young women associated with Generation Life entered four different PPSP clinics. There they discovered that PPSP was engaging in many illegal and irresponsible activities and distributing inaccurate and incomplete medical information.
"PPSP claims to care for women's health," said Judi McLane, director of Generation Life, "yet, not only did they neglect to perform physical exams that the State of Pennsylvania Code mandates before prescribing prescription drugs, but they also withheld FDA approved and mandated patient prescribing information from the women and girls to whom they gave the drugs."
PPSP nurse practitioners claimed to have written prescriptions for each individual woman and minor girl who asked for the emergency contraceptives. The nurse practitioners asked a few questions, however they did not take blood pressure, perform a medical exam or administer pregnancy tests that are recommended by both the Planned Parenthood and the makers of the Plan B emergency contraceptive before taking the drugs.
Six of the eight prescriptions filled by PPSP for Generation Life volunteers were for "Lo/Ovral for ECP use" (an off-label use for the drug) and did not come with the FDA mandated prescribing information. Instead of supplying this medical information, the Planned Parenthood substituted a "Client information for informed consent" sheet, which states that the FDA information will be supplied. However, none of the six prescriptions written for Generation Life volunteers included the prescribing information. The PPSP instruction sheet omits the full list of contraindications, health warnings or adverse reactions from the FDA approved insert.
"In addition to clear violations of the law, PPSP's true agenda must be exposed. That agenda is to promote promiscuity among young people by telling them that sexual activity is possible without consequences," McLane added. "PPSP hopes to make return customers who will pay for more pills and eventually abortions, and thus line their pockets with money."
Generation Life is a movement of young people dedicated to building a culture of life by spreading the pro-life and chastity messages to other young people.
"PPSP claims to care for women's health," said Judi McLane, director of Generation Life, "yet, not only did they neglect to perform physical exams that the State of Pennsylvania Code mandates before prescribing prescription drugs, but they also withheld FDA approved and mandated patient prescribing information from the women and girls to whom they gave the drugs."
PPSP nurse practitioners claimed to have written prescriptions for each individual woman and minor girl who asked for the emergency contraceptives. The nurse practitioners asked a few questions, however they did not take blood pressure, perform a medical exam or administer pregnancy tests that are recommended by both the Planned Parenthood and the makers of the Plan B emergency contraceptive before taking the drugs.
Six of the eight prescriptions filled by PPSP for Generation Life volunteers were for "Lo/Ovral for ECP use" (an off-label use for the drug) and did not come with the FDA mandated prescribing information. Instead of supplying this medical information, the Planned Parenthood substituted a "Client information for informed consent" sheet, which states that the FDA information will be supplied. However, none of the six prescriptions written for Generation Life volunteers included the prescribing information. The PPSP instruction sheet omits the full list of contraindications, health warnings or adverse reactions from the FDA approved insert.
"In addition to clear violations of the law, PPSP's true agenda must be exposed. That agenda is to promote promiscuity among young people by telling them that sexual activity is possible without consequences," McLane added. "PPSP hopes to make return customers who will pay for more pills and eventually abortions, and thus line their pockets with money."
Generation Life is a movement of young people dedicated to building a culture of life by spreading the pro-life and chastity messages to other young people.
Federal Investigation Hitting Congressman Tim Murphy
A federal investigation is underway after allegations surfaced against US Rep. Tim Murphy, according to KDKA. Federal agents have begun interviewing former Murphy staffers on whether they did political work for the congressman on government time. Details at http://PoliticsPA.com
TRANS FATS BAN PROPOSED IN PHILADELPHIA
With surprising speed, the recently enacted ban on trans fats in restaurants in New York City has already invaded Pennsylvania’s eastern border. This ban may be coming to a restaurant near you.
Anything done in extreme excess can pose health risks, but having trans fat police to monitor our dining habits seems excessive.
Read More
Anything done in extreme excess can pose health risks, but having trans fat police to monitor our dining habits seems excessive.
Read More
Welcome Our New PowerBlogger
I'd like you all to welcome to PowerBlog! Jim Powers from Valencia, PA . (No I did not make him change his last name to fit the blog) Jim has been published on Newsmax.com and his comments and political knowledge are always insightful.
Jim is involved with the Beaver-Butler Presbytery and served as an overture delegate for a Pro Life Overture at the PC (USA) General Assembly in Alabama. He served as the Butler County Republican Chairman from 2004 to 2006, and lead the State Committee effort to repeal the infamous pay raise. He is also serving as the Communications director for a new PAC - Voters For Republican Values. (www.votersforrepublcanvalues.com).
All this and he still wants to blog here! It's exciting to have another contributor and I hope all of you enjoy his future postings.
Please join me in welcoming Jim Powers to PowerBlog!
Jim is involved with the Beaver-Butler Presbytery and served as an overture delegate for a Pro Life Overture at the PC (USA) General Assembly in Alabama. He served as the Butler County Republican Chairman from 2004 to 2006, and lead the State Committee effort to repeal the infamous pay raise. He is also serving as the Communications director for a new PAC - Voters For Republican Values. (www.votersforrepublcanvalues.com).
All this and he still wants to blog here! It's exciting to have another contributor and I hope all of you enjoy his future postings.
Please join me in welcoming Jim Powers to PowerBlog!
Casino applicants miss revenue guesses, panel says
All five applicants competing for a stand-alone slots parlor license outside of Philadelphia and Pittsburgh will make millions less than predicted, according to an independent study released Wednesday. Read More
KDKA's Next Move
CBS Talk KDKA-A/PITTSBURGH has officially upped News Director MARSHALL ADAMS to Director of News/Talk Programming. The post is a combination of ADAMS' news duties with the PD duties held by recently-departed STEVE HANSEN. ADAMS joined KDKA at the beginning of the year from WBT-A-F/CHARLOTTE.
Posted on the Church Door
I had to share this email with all of you:
I have been reading your blog for the past year. I used to be a Media Director at an evangelical Church until 3 months ago. Recently, the church moved into a new building and really been pushing Rick Warren's Purpose Driven Church model. The leadership also shifted to more "relevant" forms of worship. When I was on staff, I really became convicted that the church was watering down the gospel and was headed in the wrong direction. I finally confronted the Pastor about it, and he immediately asked me to resign.
He also asked the Children's Director to resign also, because we were considered "poison" by going against the vision or dream of the church.
Anyway, my friend and I have been regular readers of your blog and have appreciated the discernment put forth. This weekend we posted a letter on the door of the church (in the spirit of Luther) voicing our concerns about the direction of the church. I'm not sure what it will do--Probably nothing, unfortunately.
But just a note of encouragement, my friend and I are both young (24). I used to be swayed by the emergent and relevant teaching, but through your blog, as well as other ministries the Holy Spirit has really changed my heart and corrected my thinking. I plan on going into the ministry to become a Pastor and am attending seminary this January.
Well I'm not sure what to say. I'm glad they stand for what they believe. I think their jouney has just begun and I pray they will be guided by God along the way.
I have been reading your blog for the past year. I used to be a Media Director at an evangelical Church until 3 months ago. Recently, the church moved into a new building and really been pushing Rick Warren's Purpose Driven Church model. The leadership also shifted to more "relevant" forms of worship. When I was on staff, I really became convicted that the church was watering down the gospel and was headed in the wrong direction. I finally confronted the Pastor about it, and he immediately asked me to resign.
He also asked the Children's Director to resign also, because we were considered "poison" by going against the vision or dream of the church.
Anyway, my friend and I have been regular readers of your blog and have appreciated the discernment put forth. This weekend we posted a letter on the door of the church (in the spirit of Luther) voicing our concerns about the direction of the church. I'm not sure what it will do--Probably nothing, unfortunately.
But just a note of encouragement, my friend and I are both young (24). I used to be swayed by the emergent and relevant teaching, but through your blog, as well as other ministries the Holy Spirit has really changed my heart and corrected my thinking. I plan on going into the ministry to become a Pastor and am attending seminary this January.
Well I'm not sure what to say. I'm glad they stand for what they believe. I think their jouney has just begun and I pray they will be guided by God along the way.
Santa's Not Bringing Satellite Radio
Retail sales for both XM and Sirius slumped 45% in November. XM's numbers look worse, causing cuts to year-end subscriber estimates. Sirius was also down 45% in November. The weak demand at retail for receivers, relative to last year, suggests that satellite's growth is going to come from its new-car installations. Not from after-market buys at the big-box retailers. What impact HD radio will have remains to be seen. I'd out my money on HD. The prices are falling and there is no subcription cost. HD may be what saves radio.
SUSPECTED TERRORIST LIVES FREE IN NORWAY
The story notes “Krekar's defiance, and continued freedom in Norway, points up the continuing frustrations the U.S. government has faced when trying to curb the activities of suspected terrorist leaders or fixers who take refuge in countries that are sympathetic to the Bush administration's campaign against terrorism but also have to abide by their own strict laws protecting human rights and civil liberties.”
Newsweek
Newsweek
DEMOCRATIC SENATOR UNDERGOES SURGERY, POWER COULD SHIFT
As awful as it seems to speculate, the story notes “South Dakota state law says that the governor can appoint a replacement when there is a "vacancy," but Secretary of State Chris Nelson tells CBS News political producer Steve Chaggaris that it's unclear whether a seat held by an incapacitated senator would be considered "vacant." Unless Johnson dies, the state of South Dakota is unsure of how to proceed if he's incapacitated. If he dies, however, the governor, Mike Rounds, would appoint a replacement who would serve until the next general election in 2008, Chaggaris explains.” Mike Rounds is a Republican. (CBS News) CNN said it was brain surgery. (CNN)
Help Wanted
It's been two years since PowerBlog! was born. Two talk show hosts have come and gone and this blog has seen over 55,000 visitors in that time.
Recently I took on the position of promotions director here at the radio station. That's in addition to producing the show and trying to post as often as I can. Needless to say time is tight these days. So I'm asking for help.
If any of you would like to be guest bloggers let me know. It could be a one time post or an ongoing deal. I'm also not going to put any restrictions on guest bloggers. You don't have to agree with me or be Catholic, or pledge an oath. So long as you are sincere and respectful, you (as always) are welcome.
I'll ask anyone interested to email me. That link is on the sidebar.
In the meantime this Friday will be John and Stephanies' 100th show! It's hard to believe it's been that long already. For those of you who listen I have a really great show coming up in a few weeks. I'll let you know more as that develops.
Recently I took on the position of promotions director here at the radio station. That's in addition to producing the show and trying to post as often as I can. Needless to say time is tight these days. So I'm asking for help.
If any of you would like to be guest bloggers let me know. It could be a one time post or an ongoing deal. I'm also not going to put any restrictions on guest bloggers. You don't have to agree with me or be Catholic, or pledge an oath. So long as you are sincere and respectful, you (as always) are welcome.
I'll ask anyone interested to email me. That link is on the sidebar.
In the meantime this Friday will be John and Stephanies' 100th show! It's hard to believe it's been that long already. For those of you who listen I have a really great show coming up in a few weeks. I'll let you know more as that develops.
Convert or Die
It never fails. There is always something so called "Christian" that makes me cringe. "Convert or die" is the latest.
It's a new computer game in which players must either convert or kill non-Christians. No I'm serious! Who came up with this bright idea? None other then the guys behind the popular (and misguided) Left Behind series. Yes, Left Behind: Eternal Forces, produced the game inspired by a series of Christian novels that are hugely popular, especially with teens.
The series by Tim LaHaye and Jerry Jenkins is based on their interpretation of the Bible's Book of Revelation and takes place after the Rapture, when Jesus has taken his people to heaven and left nonbelievers behind to face the Antichrist. I've taken some flack for warning about Left Behind and the whole Battle Cry generation stuff. I don't like what I see under the surface.
Left Behind Games' president, Jeffrey Frichner, says the game actually is pacifist because players lose "spirit points" every time they gun down nonbelievers rather than convert them. They can earn spirit points again by having their character pray. Ummmmm..... Ok.
There is no blood. (The dead just fade off the screen.) But still you are killing your enemy with a gun. One of the evil characters is a rock musician. ... If you get too close to him your spirit is lowered.
So what's the goal here? Well the company's ultimate goal in offering the game is to bring parents and kids together to talk about the Bible. I'm not sure that they have reached that goal here. Pac-Man anyone?
It's a new computer game in which players must either convert or kill non-Christians. No I'm serious! Who came up with this bright idea? None other then the guys behind the popular (and misguided) Left Behind series. Yes, Left Behind: Eternal Forces, produced the game inspired by a series of Christian novels that are hugely popular, especially with teens.
The series by Tim LaHaye and Jerry Jenkins is based on their interpretation of the Bible's Book of Revelation and takes place after the Rapture, when Jesus has taken his people to heaven and left nonbelievers behind to face the Antichrist. I've taken some flack for warning about Left Behind and the whole Battle Cry generation stuff. I don't like what I see under the surface.
Left Behind Games' president, Jeffrey Frichner, says the game actually is pacifist because players lose "spirit points" every time they gun down nonbelievers rather than convert them. They can earn spirit points again by having their character pray. Ummmmm..... Ok.
There is no blood. (The dead just fade off the screen.) But still you are killing your enemy with a gun. One of the evil characters is a rock musician. ... If you get too close to him your spirit is lowered.
So what's the goal here? Well the company's ultimate goal in offering the game is to bring parents and kids together to talk about the Bible. I'm not sure that they have reached that goal here. Pac-Man anyone?
AMERICANS WILL SPEND $3 BILLION AT CHRISTMAS ON PETS
From the story: In fact, more and more, dogs are being treated as if they were four-legged children. So you can take your dog to a spa for a massage or a manicure. Get his portrait painted. Take him to see Santa at the mall. Send his photo in Christmas cards to his doggie friends. And the gifts you can get him are, well, like the gifts you get a person. Handbags for cats. Couture for dogs. Bling for dogs. Daybeds for dogs.
USA Today
USA Today
CAIR TO MUSLIMS: FILE CIVIL RIGHTS COMPLAINTS
From the story: "Given the increase in the number of complaints CAIR has received alleging airport profiling of American Muslims, we believe it is important that all those taking part in this year's hajj be aware of their legal and civil rights," said Ibrahim Hooper, CAIR spokesman. The group has established a toll-free hot line (800/784-7526) for victims of "flying while Muslim," as Muslims have begun departing for the weeklong hajj, a once-in-a-lifetime obligation to visit the holy city of Mecca, which this year begins Dec. 29.
Washington Times
Washington Times
HILLARY HIRES HELP TO REACH EVANGELICALS
The charade has already begun as the story explains “Lewis noted that Clinton has long discussed her religious faith, pointing to writings on the subject in her two books: “It Takes a Village,” and “Living History.”
Hill News
Hill News
THE TRUTH ABOUT HANUKAH
Not the “celebration of tolerance” some claim. I know I'll take heat for this but Medved is Jewish so I'm posting it. Medved writes “Actually, far from celebrating “diversity” or “tolerance” or “respect for every faith,” Hanukah (the name means “dedication” in Hebrew) marks a singular display of intolerance-- when religious zealots, exalting the values of “that old time religion,” came into the Temple in Jerusalem and drove out all alternate, “creative” forms of worship.”
Townhall
Townhall
AHMADINEJAD: ISRAEL WILL END AS SOVIET UNION DID
Yeah let's talk to this guy. He seems rational after Iran’s obscene Holocaust conference. White House spokeswoman Dana Perino called the conference "an affront to the entire civilized world." (USA Today) David Duke spoke at the conference and claimed gas chambers weren’t used to kill Jews. (FOX News)
The Slow Painful Death of KDKA
I've been saying for some time the wrong people are in charge of America's first radio station. These folks are great at destroying stations and so far they have proved me right.Ratings continue to drop, heads are beginning to roll and I cringe everytime I tune in.
Just in time for Christmas. KDKA fired three executives, including program director Steve Hansen, sales marketing director Greg Jena, and Deborah Weppelman of the traffic department. CBS Radio Pittsburgh VP Keith Clark and KDKA news director Marshall Adams will assume Hansen's responsibilities. The problem is Clark also oversaw the demise of B-94. He is the problem, not the solution. You can't do a 30 second news story on Iraq and then let Shelly Duffy do 5 minutes on what Paris Hilton did last night. NOBODY LISTENING TO KDKA CARES!
Then there is Marty Griffin. Who hired this guy? Marty Griffin, the KDKA-TV (2) reporter and KDKA (1020) talk show host did a story on thefts from St. Paul Cathedral in Oakland. Griffin has had rough times lately with his connection to the suicide of a Ben Avon pastor who was to be the subject of a KDKA-TV investigation.
Griffin also if facing a law suit from former security guard for a Beaver County school district for defamation and invasion of privacy. In a report that aired in May, Griffin reported that James Law Jr. of Pulaski Township had been convicted more than 13 years ago on a variety of charges, including theft and drug possession. The KDKA report called Law "a walking crime wave" and showed copies of court documents that included his Social Security number.
Back to the St. Paul story... Griffin thought it would be great radio to expose theft at the church. The problem is that the thefts (including vestments and donations from the "poor boxes") have been going on for years --- they're not recent, as Griffin's story and the station's promos implied. A priest says the report was sensationalized.
I predict 2007 is going to be a tough year for CBS and Clear Channel radio. I can only hope that when it's all said and done, good people will get back to good radio. Something missing from much of the Pittsburgh airwaves these days.
Thousands tricked into paying fees for discounts, state says
Potentially hundreds of thousands of Pennsylvanians were tricked into paying for membership in discount programs, the state attorney general's office said Monday. Those who were charged may be eligible for part of $8 million set aside for refunds. Read More
"Intelligence Chief" not so Intelligent
Rep. Silvestre Reyes of Texas, who incoming House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has tapped to head the Intelligence Committee when the Democrats take over in January, failed a quiz of basic questions about al Qaeda and Hezbollah, two of the key terrorist organizations the intelligence community has focused on since the September 11, 2001 attacks.
When asked by CQ National Security Editor Jeff Stein whether al Qaeda is one or the other of the two major branches of Islam -- Sunni or Shiite -- Reyes answered "they are probably both," then ventured "Predominantly -- probably Shiite."
That sounds like an answer I gave in high school just as I woke up.
In an interview with CNN, Stein said he was "amazed" by Reyes' lack of what he considers basic information about two of the major terrorists organizations."If you're the baseball commissioner and you don't know the difference between the Yankees and the Red Sox, you don't know baseball," Stein said. "You're not going to have the respect of the people you work with."
While Stein said Reyes is "not a stupid guy," his lack of knowledge said it could hamper Reyes' ability to provide effective oversight of the intelligence community, Stein believes.
Rep. Silvestre Reyes, the Texas Democrat tapped to head the House Intelligence Committee, said Monday that despite failing to answer basic questions about al Qaeda's makeup, he is aware of the threat the terrorist group poses. He is also very worried about a possible Kilgon attack!
CNN
When asked by CQ National Security Editor Jeff Stein whether al Qaeda is one or the other of the two major branches of Islam -- Sunni or Shiite -- Reyes answered "they are probably both," then ventured "Predominantly -- probably Shiite."
That sounds like an answer I gave in high school just as I woke up.
In an interview with CNN, Stein said he was "amazed" by Reyes' lack of what he considers basic information about two of the major terrorists organizations."If you're the baseball commissioner and you don't know the difference between the Yankees and the Red Sox, you don't know baseball," Stein said. "You're not going to have the respect of the people you work with."
While Stein said Reyes is "not a stupid guy," his lack of knowledge said it could hamper Reyes' ability to provide effective oversight of the intelligence community, Stein believes.
Rep. Silvestre Reyes, the Texas Democrat tapped to head the House Intelligence Committee, said Monday that despite failing to answer basic questions about al Qaeda's makeup, he is aware of the threat the terrorist group poses. He is also very worried about a possible Kilgon attack!
CNN
MILITARY EXPERTS MEET WITH BUSH, DISAGREE WITH ISG
The story notes “The three retired generals and two academics disagreed in particular with the study group's plans to reduce the number of U.S. combat troops in Iraq and to reach out for help to Iran and Syria.” (Washington Post) From Frank Gaffney: Mr. Baker’s pride of authorship is evident in his characteristically arrogant assertion that President Bush has no choice but to adopt every last one of the ISG’s 79 recommendations. As he contemptuously put it last week: “I hope we don't treat this like a fruit salad and say, ‘I like this, but I don't like that. I like this, but I don't like that.’” Baker and his fellow commission members have suggested that Congress should compel Mr. Bush to accept their report in toto should the Commander-in-Chief have the temerity to take advice from other sources – for example, his generals in the field or his National Security Council – and reject the poisoned fruit in Baker’s salad. (Townhall)
GIBSON MOVIE LANDS IN TOP SPOT
As several big movies opened this weekend (CBS News). Boxofficemojo predicted it would finish fourth. (Boxofficemojo)
PELOSI ALREADY HAS ETHICS STRUGGLE
After insisting she’ll have “the most honest, most open, and most ethical Congress in history,” she quickly gets a test in William Jefferson.
USA Today
USA Today
IRAQI PRESIDENT: REPORT IS “AN INSULT TO THE PEOPLE OF IRAQ”
From the story: He criticized the recommendation by the Iraq Study Group calling for increasing the number of U.S. troops embedded with Iraqi units to train Iraq's forces from 3,000 to 4,000 currently to 10,000 to 20,000. "It is not respecting the desire of the Iraqi people to control its army and to be able to rearm and train Iraqi forces under the leadership of the Iraqi government," he said during an interview with several reporters in his office in Baghdad.(USA Today) From Mark Steyn: If they're lucky, this document will be tossed in the trash and these men and women will be the laughingstocks of posterity. But, if it's not shredded and we embark down this path, then the Baker group will be emblematic of something far worse. The "Support Group" is a "peace conference," and Baker wants Washington to sue for terms. No wonder Syria is already demanding concessions from America. Which is the superpower and which is the third-rate basket-case state? From the Middle Eastern and European press coverage of the Baker group, it's kinda hard to tell. (Chicago Sun-Times)
SWEDISH STUDY: PREMATURE BABIES FEEL PAIN
Interesting conclusions coming right after Democrats stop the fetal pain awareness act. The study notes that before “Babies' reactions to potentially painful stimuli have been explained away as unconscious reflexes and so doctors have felt it justified to withhold painkillers during surgery and the like so as to avoid adverse reactions.”
Physorg
Physorg
JUDGE TOSSES CONVICTION ON TECHNICALITY, MURDERER STRIKES AGAIN
From the disturbing story: Ealy, then 17, was accused of using a piece of fabric to strangle 33-year-old Christine Parker, her two daughters, ages 12 and 15, and the older girl's 3-year-old son. The boy, whose body was found curled up in a ball on a bathroom floor, had been also been molested. James Ealy was let go because “an appeals court later ruled that the evidence used to convict Ealy was the result of an improper arrest and search.” 20 years later, he’s killed again. Then this from the story: As for the judge who warned against Ealy's release, he is now in federal prison, convicted in 1993 of taking bribes to fix cases.
AP
AP
PRIVATE SAUDIS FUNDING TERRORISTS IN IRAQ
From the story: Overall, the Iraqi officials said, money has been pouring into Iraq from oil-rich Saudi Arabia, a Sunni bastion, since the US-led invasion of Iraq toppled the Sunni-controlled regime of Saddam Hussein in 2003. Saudi officials vehemently deny their country is a major source of financial support for the insurgents.
Boston Globe
Boston Globe
SERIAL KILLER KILLS 23, MAKES FEW HEADLINES
Why is this serial killer not bigger news? The story notes “Dominique bound and strangled or smothered 23 men and teenage boys in south Louisiana in what the FBI considered its most urgent serial killing case.” So why is this not big news? Could it be something not mentioned once in the whole story, he’s gay?
Forbes
Forbes
CHRISTIAN CONFERENCE SEEMS TO BE THE ANTI-PROMISE KEEPERS
Story about Christian comedian Brad Stine includes his insistence that it’s okay for Christians to cuss, as he looks to attract more men to the faith. (LA Times)
STOSSEL: TRANS FAT BAN EXAMPLE OF NANNY STATE
He notes “we have everything but limited government. The Nanny State's excessive regulation is endless. And growing.”
ABC News
ABC News
REPORT IS OUT, DEMS LOVE IT
Democrats couldn’t wait to call it a rebuke of Bush (CNN). And plan “extensive” action. (Washington Times) From Dean Barnett: For a real indication of this report’s terminal lack of seriousness, check out the Group’s blithe ignorance regarding Iran’s malevolent intentions. “It is clear to the Iraq Study Group members that all of Iraq’s neighbors are anxious about the situation in Iraq,” opines the commission. “They favor a unified Iraq that is strong enough to maintain its territorial integrity, but not so powerful as to threaten its neighbors.” Gosh, when did Iran become so altruistic and so unconcerned with its own interests? Last I heard, the mad Mullahs and their certifiable front-man were hell-bent on establishing a regional caliphate to be quickly followed by global domination (Townhall). From Bill Bennett: The entire report is contemptuous of the military, spoken of as pawns on a chess table, barriers, observers, buffers, and trainers. Never as what they are trained to be: the greatest warriors in the world. Would it have been too much to ask that one general, or even one outspoken believer in the mission from the get-go, be on this commission. (NRO) From a politician in Iraq: "It is a report to solve American problems, and not to solve Iraq's problems." (Washington Post) The entire report. (USA Today)
Your help is needed
Help make a child's Christmas morning a happy one with a donation to Angel Tree. Angel Tree is the annual undertaking of Prison Fellowship Ministries that reaches out to hurting children all over the country, including here in Pittsburgh, with gifts and the Gospel at Christmas. These kids are the children of inmates. With your help, they will not be forgotten on Christmas morning.
Your gift of just $58 will help ensure that four hurting children will receive an Angel Tree gift. In addition, you'll receive a collectible 2006 Angel Tree ornament for your own tree for each donation of $58 or more.
Call 1-888-ANGEL-05, or click here to make an on-line pledge. Our goal is to provide gifts for over 1,000 kids. With your help -- we can do it! Thank you, in advance, from all of us here at 101.5 WORD-FM.
Be sure to listen today and help us reach our goal.
Merry Christmas!
VP will have Grand Baby. Sort of...
Oh what a twisted world we live in. Mary Cheney, the vice president's openly gay daughter, is pregnant. She and her partner of 15 years, Heather Poe, are "ecstatic" about the baby. Don't ask.
Cheney has described her relationship with Poe -- whom she took to last year's White House dinner honoring Prince Charles and Camilla -- as a marriage. I guess at a party honoring an adulterer it's fine to call it whatever you want.
Could Charles be..... Oh no. Just a thought.
Cheney has described her relationship with Poe -- whom she took to last year's White House dinner honoring Prince Charles and Camilla -- as a marriage. I guess at a party honoring an adulterer it's fine to call it whatever you want.
Could Charles be..... Oh no. Just a thought.
Spam -O- Rama
It happens everyday. Someone I never met in Africa or Nigeria or some other place wants to send me millions of dollars. DELETE
Hey I've won the Swiss Lottery. That's the one I don't even play. DELETE
Here is a hot stock tip that is sure to make me rich overnight. DELETE
That request I never made has provided me with great financing on a car, house, refinancing, etc. DELETE
I'm such a great person they want to send me fabric softener and hand sanitizer. DELETE
Ink on sale, slice your phone bill in half, a free bottle of Viagra, Jewlery auctions, Local women want to meet me.... STOP IT!
People I don't know are emailing me like they are my best friends. If they were my friends I'd meet them for lunch and punch them in the mouth for all the garbage they send me.
Spam is back — in e-mail in-boxes and on everyone’s minds. In the last six months, the problem has gotten measurably worse. Worldwide spam volumes have doubled from last year, according to Ironport, a spam filtering firm, and unsolicited junk mail now accounts for more than 9 of every 10 e-mail messages sent over the Internet.
Much of that flood is made up of a nettlesome new breed of junk e-mail called image spam, in which the words of the advertisement are part of a picture, often fooling traditional spam detectors that look for telltale phrases. Image spam increased fourfold from last year and now represents 25 to 45 percent of all junk e-mail, depending on the day, Ironport says.
How is all this happening? Spammers have built vast networks of computers belonging to users who unknowingly downloaded viruses and other rogue programs. The infected computers begin sending out spam without the knowledge of their owners. Yes, you could be the one sending the spam. Secure Computing, an antispam company in San Jose, Calif., reports that 250,000 new computers are captured and added to these spam “botnets” each day.
Right now I have over 1300 deleted emails just this month. But hey, I've got a great stock tip for you!
Hey I've won the Swiss Lottery. That's the one I don't even play. DELETE
Here is a hot stock tip that is sure to make me rich overnight. DELETE
That request I never made has provided me with great financing on a car, house, refinancing, etc. DELETE
I'm such a great person they want to send me fabric softener and hand sanitizer. DELETE
Ink on sale, slice your phone bill in half, a free bottle of Viagra, Jewlery auctions, Local women want to meet me.... STOP IT!
People I don't know are emailing me like they are my best friends. If they were my friends I'd meet them for lunch and punch them in the mouth for all the garbage they send me.
Spam is back — in e-mail in-boxes and on everyone’s minds. In the last six months, the problem has gotten measurably worse. Worldwide spam volumes have doubled from last year, according to Ironport, a spam filtering firm, and unsolicited junk mail now accounts for more than 9 of every 10 e-mail messages sent over the Internet.
Much of that flood is made up of a nettlesome new breed of junk e-mail called image spam, in which the words of the advertisement are part of a picture, often fooling traditional spam detectors that look for telltale phrases. Image spam increased fourfold from last year and now represents 25 to 45 percent of all junk e-mail, depending on the day, Ironport says.
How is all this happening? Spammers have built vast networks of computers belonging to users who unknowingly downloaded viruses and other rogue programs. The infected computers begin sending out spam without the knowledge of their owners. Yes, you could be the one sending the spam. Secure Computing, an antispam company in San Jose, Calif., reports that 250,000 new computers are captured and added to these spam “botnets” each day.
Right now I have over 1300 deleted emails just this month. But hey, I've got a great stock tip for you!
Christmas List
According to an analysis by Media Monitors of the current 93 stations in 60 markets airing holiday music since Thanksgiving, Burl Ives' "Holly Jolly Christmas" is #1 most aired Christmas tune. Here's the top 10:
Holly Jolly Christmas, Burl Ives
The Christmas Song, Nat King Cole
White Christmas, Bing Crosby
Feliz Navidad, Jose Feliciano
The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year, Andy Williams
Please Come Home For Christmas, The Eagles
Rockin' Around The Christmas Tree, Brenda Lee
Happy Xmas (War Is Over), John Lennon
Merry Christmas Darling, The Carpenters
It's Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas, Johnny Mathis
Just another useless bit of wisdom....
Holly Jolly Christmas, Burl Ives
The Christmas Song, Nat King Cole
White Christmas, Bing Crosby
Feliz Navidad, Jose Feliciano
The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year, Andy Williams
Please Come Home For Christmas, The Eagles
Rockin' Around The Christmas Tree, Brenda Lee
Happy Xmas (War Is Over), John Lennon
Merry Christmas Darling, The Carpenters
It's Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas, Johnny Mathis
Just another useless bit of wisdom....
12 YEAR OLD BOY ARRESTED FOR OPENING PRESENT EARLY
It was an $85 Game Boy from grandma. Interesting note from the story: “The mother told police that the boy has a history of bad behavior, including shoplifting from stores and stealing money from her. The mother said he even punched a police officer last month and was arrested for disorderly conduct for it.” Mom is just 27. No mention of a father in the story.
Gee I used to get spanked, not arrested......
Fox News
Gee I used to get spanked, not arrested......
Fox News
NEW YORK TO TRANS FATS: YOU ARE AGAINST THE LAW
It’s official. Bloomberg said “Nobody wants to take away your french fries and hamburgers - I love those things, too. But if you can make them with something that is less damaging to your health, we should do that." Yet abortion is still legal. Glad to see our priorities are set.
AP
AP
SIX MILLION IN JEOPARDY IN DARFUR AREA
The story notes “More than 200,000 people have been killed and 2.5 million displaced in the fighting, and the violence has only increased since the government and one rebel group signed a peace agreement in May.”
ABC News
ABC News
GATES: NO GOING AFTER IRAN
From the story: President Bush's nominee to run the Pentagon would counsel against a military strike targeting Iran except as a last resort and says he does not think the Iranian regime would use nuclear weapons in a first strike against Israel (NY Sun) Hugh Hewitt notes “Not only did Mr. Gates answer Senator Byrd's hypotheticals in ways that had to encourage the mullahs of Iran and the thugs of Syria, he did so in addition to questioning the president's authority under the AUMF to pursue any terrorists operating out of Iranian or Syria.” (Townhall)
Advent Refelction
The word Advent means "coming" or "arrival." The focus of the entire season is the celebration of the birth of Jesus the Christ in his First Advent, and the anticipation of the return of Christ the King in his Second Advent. Advent is the beginning of the Church Year for most churches in the Western tradition.It is truly a humbling experience to read back through the Old Testament and see how frail and imperfect all the "heroes" actually are. Abraham, the coward who cannot believe the promise. Jacob, the cheat who struggles with everybody. Joseph, the immature and arrogant teen. Moses, the impatient murderer who cannot wait for God. Gideon, the cowardly Baal-worshipper. Samson, the womanizing drunk. David, the power abusing adulterer. Solomon, the unwise wise man. Hezekiah, the reforming king who could not quite go far enough. And finally, a very young Jewish girl from a small village in a remote corner of a great empire.
It never ceases to amaze me why God could not have chosen "better" people to do His work in the world. Yet if God can use them, and reveal Himself through them in such marvelous ways, it means that He might be able to use us, inadequate, and unwise, and too often lacking in faith. And it means that we need to be careful that we do not in our own self-righteousness put limits on what God can do with the most unlikely of people in the most unlikely of circumstances. I think that is part of the wonder of the Advent Season.
Suspense deepens for control of state House
It will take another week before a recount of votes is completed in the last disputed state House race -- and determines whether Democrats or Republicans will be in control on Jan. 2. Read More
CAIR WANTS PRAGER REMOVED FROM BOARD
ACTIONS AGAINST NUKE PROGRAM CONSIDERED HOSTILITY
From the story: Iran is concerned about moves at the U.N. Security Council to penalize it for refusing to cease uranium enrichment, a process that produces the material for nuclear reactors or bombs. The Europe Union has been supporting the United States in pushing for tougher U.N. penalties than Russia and China would like to see (USA Today). Chuck Colson on why Iran matters: If the Iranian-backed Hezbollah attacked Israel, or if Ahmadinejad releases his missiles, Israel could be wiped off the face of the earth. Ahmadinejad is not squeamish, especially when he believes that God has willed something. Now, imagine him with nuclear weapons, in effective control of most of the world’s oil, the United States having cut and run, abandoning the region, and Europe unconcerned. (Breakpoint)
HOLYWOOD SEES CASH IN CHRIST
From the article highlighting The Nativity Story: "God is enjoying a renaissance in Hollywood," says Steven Feldstein with Fox Faith, a new division of 20th Century Fox devoted entirely to faith-based filmmaking. But he admits that Fox Faith is more about the bottom line than belief. "It's a significant market," Feldstein says. "We as a studio, we're in the business of entertainment. It's not our business to preach or proselytize."
So we have Feldstein selling us Jesus on the big screen. Maybe we should just stick with the book and stop asking Hollywood to be something they are not.
CBS News
So we have Feldstein selling us Jesus on the big screen. Maybe we should just stick with the book and stop asking Hollywood to be something they are not.
CBS News
SOME PARENTS FEEL GENDER IDENTITY IN CHILDREN IS UNCLEAR
In one of those stories that make you pull your hair out. The story notes “Children as young as 5 who display predispositions to dress like the opposite sex are being supported by a growing number of young parents, educators and mental health professionals.” (NY Times) Dr. Albert Mohler, examining this article (AlbertMohler.com) wrote on the topic in the past, “Transgender children" in kindergarten? We can only wonder what can come next. The logic cannot stop at age five.” (AlbertMohler.com)
What a KRock
Pittsburgh station WRKZ-FM (93.7) began streaming its programming online. Well let's all cheer. Have you heard this garbage? If no one is listening on air, what makes them think they will listen online? It should be KRAP FM.
In other radio massacre news ..... As an early Christmas gift KDKA fired 3 people, including the program director Steve Hansen. I don't like to see anyone lose a job but as I've been saying for some time, KDKA is in deep trouble. There are a few more people that need to go and the station needs a drastic change in direction.
In other radio massacre news ..... As an early Christmas gift KDKA fired 3 people, including the program director Steve Hansen. I don't like to see anyone lose a job but as I've been saying for some time, KDKA is in deep trouble. There are a few more people that need to go and the station needs a drastic change in direction.
Perzel fights to hold speaker's post
The GOP lawmaker worked his way up through the ranks and strove toward bipartisanism. The pay-raise issue may be his undoing. Read More
UNCONFIRMED: Ten Canadian soldiers reportedly Killed
A report on an Arabic language website claims that 10 Canadian soldiers were killed in an attack by the Mujahideen while on patrol about 40 kilometers north-west of Kandahar, Afghanistan. According to the posting, this alleged atttack appears unrelated to the deaths of two Canadian soldiers already reported. We have no other independent confirmation of the attack or casualties at this time.
Episcopal Diocese Votes to Secede
In a public rebuke of the Episcopal Church, a conservative diocese has voted to affirm its membership in the worldwide Anglican Communion after distancing itself from the national church over the ordination of gays and women.
San Joaquin Bishop John-David Schofield called it a first step toward a formal break with the U.S. Anglican denomination, though the proposal makes just minor changes to the diocese's status.
Schofield, who refuses to ordain women and gays, has publicly accused the church's first female leader, Presiding Bishop Katharine Jefferts Schori, of promoting "heresy." Under his leadership, the Fresno-based diocese has cut back funds sent to the national church and considered a plan to affiliate with an Anglican diocese in Argentina.
NewsMax.com
San Joaquin Bishop John-David Schofield called it a first step toward a formal break with the U.S. Anglican denomination, though the proposal makes just minor changes to the diocese's status.
Schofield, who refuses to ordain women and gays, has publicly accused the church's first female leader, Presiding Bishop Katharine Jefferts Schori, of promoting "heresy." Under his leadership, the Fresno-based diocese has cut back funds sent to the national church and considered a plan to affiliate with an Anglican diocese in Argentina.
NewsMax.com
Work to Do
I'm such a loser.....
I didn't even make the top ten! The Democratic Underground came out with thier top ten list of “CONSERVATIVE IDIOTS”. I wanted so bad to be in there but no such luck.
A few of my co-workers did however make the list. Hat's off to Michael Medved and Dennis Prager. There's a saying I've often mutter in the halls, "If you not catching flack, you're not over the target".
Maybe next year.....
I didn't even make the top ten! The Democratic Underground came out with thier top ten list of “CONSERVATIVE IDIOTS”. I wanted so bad to be in there but no such luck.
A few of my co-workers did however make the list. Hat's off to Michael Medved and Dennis Prager. There's a saying I've often mutter in the halls, "If you not catching flack, you're not over the target".
Maybe next year.....
PALTROW: THE BRITISH ARE MUCH MORE INTELLIGENT AND CIVILIZED THAN THE AMERICANS
DANIEL CRAIG/JAMES BOND WANTS GAY SCENE IN NEXT MOVIE
Just as I start to appluad some Hollywood efforts....
From the story: Daniel Craig is urging movie bosses to revolutionise the James Bond franchise by including a gay scene involving the superspy in the follow-up to Casino Royale. The heart-throb actor has also reportedly told studio chiefs he is prepared to film a full frontal nude scene to please both his male and female admirers (Ireland Online).
From the story: Daniel Craig is urging movie bosses to revolutionise the James Bond franchise by including a gay scene involving the superspy in the follow-up to Casino Royale. The heart-throb actor has also reportedly told studio chiefs he is prepared to film a full frontal nude scene to please both his male and female admirers (Ireland Online).
IN THE DEMOCRATIC CROSSHAIRS: FAITH-BASED INITIATIVE
They’re also looking to overturn a measure that requires one-third of AIDS prevention money overseas to be spent on abstinence- programs.
Boston Globe
Boston Globe
DEMOCRATS PLANNING TO GRANT CITIZENSHIP TO MOST ILLEGAL ALIENS
From Congressman Rohrabacher: "The only real legislation that can be expected from Congress is amnesty. If they come up with a plan and the president is behind it, it will pick up a lot of our own members."
Washington Times
Washington Times
ANNAN: IRAQIS LIVES WORSE NOW THAN UNDER SADDAM
Tens of thousands of people gassed is not so bad after all (ABC News). Meanwhile, more conflict of interest at the U.N. (FOX News)
MORE MOMS CHOOSING TO STAY HOME WITH CHILDREN
A common story these days. This one points out why “staying at home to raise a child, may not be as big of a financial sacrifice as some might think.”
Tampa Bay 10
Tampa Bay 10
HOUSE GOP WANTS VOTE ON FETAL PAIN
Before Democrats take over and begin their pro-abortion push. From the story: The bill, by Rep. Chris Smith, R-New Jersey, defines a 20-week-old fetus as a "pain-capable unborn child" -- a highly controversial threshold among scientists. It also directs the Health and Human Services Department to develop a brochure stating "that there is substantial evidence that the process of being killed in an abortion will cause the unborn child pain."
CNN
CNN
THE NATIVITY STORY OPENS TODAY
As Chuck Colson points out, it “is the first explicitly Biblical film released by a major Hollywood studio in fifty years—the last two being Ben-Hur and The Ten Commandments. Yes, there have been many faith-related films lately: for example, The Passion of the Christ, One Night with the King, the Narnia tales, and Facing the Giants. But most of those films did not come from major mainstream studios. This one does” (Breakpoint). The movie website. (Nativity)
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