Sunday, December 31, 2023
Saturday, December 30, 2023
North American Division Continues to Promote Social Justice
December 27, 2023 Gerry Wagoner
In October 2018, Dan Jackson said (at the NAD Society of Communicators meeting) “Social Justice is the Gospel.” Not part of the gospel. Not an aspect of it. The whole kit and caboodle.
Five years later, in October this year, the NAD hosted a ‘Conscience and Justice convention at their office in Columbia Maryland. According to the Lake Region (regional) Conference, the meeting was a '“gathering of social justice visionaries and thought leaders.” A better name for it is the “NAD Christian Nationalism is Bad and Critical Race Theory is Good Social Justice SDA Polilib Woke Symposium” or NADCNBCRTGSJSDAPWS+, for short.
Some speakers at this event:
In October 2018, Dan Jackson said (at the NAD Society of Communicators meeting) “Social Justice is the Gospel.” Not part of the gospel. Not an aspect of it. The whole kit and caboodle.
Five years later, in October this year, the NAD hosted a ‘Conscience and Justice convention at their office in Columbia Maryland. According to the Lake Region (regional) Conference, the meeting was a '“gathering of social justice visionaries and thought leaders.” A better name for it is the “NAD Christian Nationalism is Bad and Critical Race Theory is Good Social Justice SDA Polilib Woke Symposium” or NADCNBCRTGSJSDAPWS+, for short.
Some speakers at this event:
- The Honorable Maxine Waters (Invited), Member of Congress
- Nicholas Miller, Co-Director Washington Adventist University Center for Law and Public Policy
- Leon Russell, Chairperson (Invited) NAACP
- Claudia Allen
- Charde’ Hollins, Mental Health & Equity Consultant
- Kim Brace, Founder and President Election Data Services
- Paul Graham, Assistant to the Vice President for Pastoral Ministries for Revitalization — Potomac Conference
- G. Alexander Bryant, President, North American Division of the Seventh-day Adventist Church
- Derrick Greene, Founder Interfaith Action Movement
- Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie, President and General Secretary National Council of Churches
- Bettina Krause, Editor Liberty Magazine
- Marilyn Dabady Lynk, Associate Vice President Learning, Leadership & Organizational Development Diversity Inclusion Equity
Some Themes at This Conference
- LGBTQIA: Love and Liberty
- Immigration Today: What’s New?
- Addressing Health Disparities as Evangelism
- The Redistricting Process: Drawing the Lines
- Democracy Today: Justice or Injustice?
- Threats to the Voting Rights Act
- Historically and Today: Where Does the Church Stand on Systemic Racism and Application of the Three Angels Message?
- Learning, Leadership & Organizational Development Equity, Diversity & Inclusion
Man Leading Massive Migrant Caravan to US Was Convicted of Kidnapping in Mexico Decades Ago: Report
Luis Garcia Villagran is leading a 10,000-strong throng of migrants to the US border with Mexico
Luis Garcia Villagran is leading a group of nearly 8,000 migrants to the United States. PEDRO PARDO/AFP via Getty Images
The migrant activist who is leading thousands of asylum-seekers to the United States was convicted of kidnapping nearly three decades ago and sentenced to 40 years in a Mexican prison where he claims he was tortured, according to a report.
Luis Garcia Villagran, a self-described Evangelical Christian, is at the head of the procession of nearly 10,000 migrants who set off Christmas Eve from the southern Mexican town of Tapachula heading north to the United States, which is already reeling from an immigrant crisis at the border.
Villagran, who runs the Center for Human Dignity, was arrested in the Mexican state of Chiapas in 1997 on kidnapping and conspiracy charges, which he has denied, the New York Post reported.
A judge sentenced him to 40 years in prison.
While imprisoned, Villagran said he was held in solitary confinement and tortured in an attempt to make him confess, resulting in him suffering a detached retina.
The injury, he said, went untreated and he lost sight in one eye.
Villagran said he was “stigmatized as dangerous, and they took me to maximum security prisons until the [Inter-American Commission on Human Rights] demanded my freedom.”
The migrant activist who is leading thousands of asylum-seekers to the United States was convicted of kidnapping nearly three decades ago and sentenced to 40 years in a Mexican prison where he claims he was tortured, according to a report.
Luis Garcia Villagran, a self-described Evangelical Christian, is at the head of the procession of nearly 10,000 migrants who set off Christmas Eve from the southern Mexican town of Tapachula heading north to the United States, which is already reeling from an immigrant crisis at the border.
Villagran, who runs the Center for Human Dignity, was arrested in the Mexican state of Chiapas in 1997 on kidnapping and conspiracy charges, which he has denied, the New York Post reported.
A judge sentenced him to 40 years in prison.
While imprisoned, Villagran said he was held in solitary confinement and tortured in an attempt to make him confess, resulting in him suffering a detached retina.
The injury, he said, went untreated and he lost sight in one eye.
Villagran said he was “stigmatized as dangerous, and they took me to maximum security prisons until the [Inter-American Commission on Human Rights] demanded my freedom.”
Read MoreMigrant Caravan Organizer Says Latin American Nations ‘Conspiring’ Against US as 5,000 Head to Border
Bus of Migrants Kidnapped in Mexico
Jet Skis Used to Smuggle Migrants Through Southern Border of US and Mexico
Migrants Stuck at US-Mexico Border Are Ordering Uber Eats Through Wall
Migrant Encounters at US-Mexico Border Drop To Lowest Number Since February 2021
The U.S. Still Has a Migrant Crisis at the Border — It’s Just in Mexico for Now
He was released in 2010.
That experience led to the creation of the Center for Human Dignity, which he operates with his wife, Martha Martinex de la Fuente, the New York Post reported.
Villagran, who says he has led more than 40,000 migrants to the US since September 2021, is guiding a group of 8,000 asylum seekers mainly from South and Central America through Mexico. He predicted that the caravan could swell to 15,000 along the journey.
"We are the poorest of the poorest of those at the peak of need, those of us who do not have money to pay for visas or people smugglers," he said, according to the New York Post.
More than two million people have been apprehended at the US border in fiscal years 2022 and 2023, the Department of Homeland Security says.
About 10,000 migrants have been arrested every day at the border this month, forcing US Customs and Border Protection to suspend cross-border rail traffic in the Texas border cities of Eagle Pass and El Paso, the Associated Press reported.
Bus of Migrants Kidnapped in Mexico
Jet Skis Used to Smuggle Migrants Through Southern Border of US and Mexico
Migrants Stuck at US-Mexico Border Are Ordering Uber Eats Through Wall
Migrant Encounters at US-Mexico Border Drop To Lowest Number Since February 2021
The U.S. Still Has a Migrant Crisis at the Border — It’s Just in Mexico for Now
He was released in 2010.
That experience led to the creation of the Center for Human Dignity, which he operates with his wife, Martha Martinex de la Fuente, the New York Post reported.
Villagran, who says he has led more than 40,000 migrants to the US since September 2021, is guiding a group of 8,000 asylum seekers mainly from South and Central America through Mexico. He predicted that the caravan could swell to 15,000 along the journey.
"We are the poorest of the poorest of those at the peak of need, those of us who do not have money to pay for visas or people smugglers," he said, according to the New York Post.
More than two million people have been apprehended at the US border in fiscal years 2022 and 2023, the Department of Homeland Security says.
About 10,000 migrants have been arrested every day at the border this month, forcing US Customs and Border Protection to suspend cross-border rail traffic in the Texas border cities of Eagle Pass and El Paso, the Associated Press reported.
Friday, December 29, 2023
Thursday, December 28, 2023
Wednesday, December 27, 2023
Secretary Blinken and Mayorkas meet with Mexico President
Note:
On this video there were several interruptions as if there was a resentment of the video coverage of the meeting.
Monday, December 25, 2023
Sunday, December 24, 2023
Saturday, December 23, 2023
Friday, December 22, 2023
Thursday, December 21, 2023
Wednesday, December 20, 2023
Tuesday, December 19, 2023
All agree: Media bias worst ever, Biden coverage condemned
by Paul Bedard, Washington Secrets Columnist
December 18, 2023 12:03 PM
Media bias, the poor coverage of the Biden White House by the liberal press, and the hiding of first son Hunter Biden’s scandals have reached a new level.
In the latest Rasmussen Reports survey, 10 times as many likely voters believe that bias has reached a low point than a high one.
The details of the survey shared with Secrets said that 60% of likely voters believe media bias has gotten worse, up 6 points from the last time Rasmussen asked. Just 6% said bias is getting better, and 30% said it was about the same as in March when the pollster asked about it.
Partisan politics is somewhat at play, but still, far more Democrats, Republicans, and independents than not said bias in the news is getting worse.
Democrats, 44%-11%, said bias is getting worse than better. Republicans said worse, 74%-2%. And independents said 63% worse than 4% better.
Rasmussen added that voter disgust with the media didn’t end there.
Asked to rate the media’s coverage of the Biden administration, 65% of likely voters said it is fair to poor. Less than half, 30%, said good to excellent.
When asked if the media have provided too much, not enough, or just the right amount of coverage of Hunter Biden’s scandals, 51% said not enough, 24% said too much, and 19% said just the right amount.
Rasmussen said that voters who support President Joe Biden feel the best about the media, which generally hold the same liberal views as the White House.
“President Joe Biden’s strongest supporters are most satisfied with the news media. Among voters who ‘strongly approve’ of Biden’s job performance as president, 61% rate the media’s coverage of his administration as good or excellent. By contrast, among those who ‘strongly disapprove’ of Biden’s performance, 77% give the media a poor rating for their coverage of the Biden administration,” Rasmussen said.
Monday, December 18, 2023
Sunday, December 17, 2023
Saturday, December 16, 2023
ADRA Fights for Climate Solutions at COP28 in Dubai
06DECEMBER2023
ADRA Fights for Climate Solutions at COP28 in Dubai
NEWS ADRA, CLIMATE CHANGE, COP28, DUBAI
6 December 2023 |
The Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) is participating in the COP28 United Nations Global Climate Change Conference in Dubai this week, aiming to showcase its extensive experience in fostering resilience and sustainable development, according to a recent press release. This vital engagement is intended to help communities around the world anticipate, adapt to, and mitigate the challenges posed by climate change.
Scheduled from November 30 to December 12 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, COP28 brings together world leaders, scientists, and environmental experts to discuss and devise solutions for the pressing issues of climate change. This year, ADRA will be recognized as a collaborating humanitarian agency.
Imad Madanat, ADRA’s Vice President for Humanitarian Affairs and Network Standards, emphasized the organization’s pivotal role in addressing the widespread consequences of climate-related disasters. “The consequences are far more widespread than many of us realize. ADRA is at the forefront of battling the consequence of climate-related disasters that impact livelihoods and health in communities we work with, as well as prolong injustice and poverty,” Madanat stated.
ADRA’s Climate-Smart Strategies
For over two decades, ADRA has pioneered nature-based initiatives alongside engineered climate-resilient solutions, and provided resource management capacity building. The organization has launched numerous initiatives worldwide, including:
– Climate-resilient houses for indigenous communities.
– Drip irrigation systems for water and fertilizer conservation.
– Drought-resistant seeds for sustainable crops.
– Organic farming techniques as alternatives to chemical weedicides and pesticides.
– Greenhouses for income generation and improved nutrition in rural areas.
– Training for marginalized groups and women in resilient farming techniques.
– Recyclable plastic bottle houses for displaced individuals and those affected by leprosy.
ADRA Moves to Net Zero
ADRA is actively pursuing Net Zero, striving for minimal greenhouse gas emissions. This initiative aligns with NASA’s climate research highlighting the detrimental effects of greenhouse gases on the planet. ADRA has shared insights from previous COP26 and CP27 conferences through its 2021 Carbon Reduction Guide. Several ADRA country offices have adopted the Climate Environmental Charter, and the agency participated in the ICRC and EcoAct pilot project to develop the Humanitarian Carbon Calculator in 2022.
ADRA’s Role at COP28
ADRA is hosting significant sessions at COP28, including:
– December 5: “Carbon Accounting for Humanitarian Actors” session, focusing on the humanitarian responsibility for eco-friendly operations.
– December 10: “Resilient and Inclusive Food Systems” session, in collaboration with World Vision and Welthungerhilfe, addressing climate impacts on food security.
– December 10: “Food Insecurity: Climate-induced Shocks and Humanitarian Response” panel, discussing the relationship between food security, climate change, and humanitarian responses.
Carina Rolly, Advocacy and Policy Advisor for ADRA Germany, stated, “ADRA can create a better roadmap for reducing the carbon footprint in our operations by sharing our knowledge with COP28 leaders and working with governments, reliable partners, faith-based groups, communities, and other climate-focused organizations.”
Friday, December 15, 2023
NYC's 'Ground Zero Mosque' that garnered national outrage opening near WTC after 9/11 faces
- FORECLOSURE for defaulting on $7.5million loanLenders Blueberry Funding claim developer Sharif El-Gamal owes at least $7.5 million after 'repeatedly' missing mortgage payments
- The site was at one point due to be turned into an Islamic center which became known as the 'Ground Zero Mosque'
- A backlash saw El-Gamal pivot to constructing luxury condos which remain unfinished
By BETHAN SEXTON FOR DAILYMAIL.COM
PUBLISHED: 21:10 EST, 14 December 2023 | UPDATED: 21:10 EST, 14 December 2023
The 'Ground Zero Mosque' that sparked protests due to its proximity to the World Trade Center site after 9/11 is facing foreclosure for defaulting on a $7.5 million loan.
Developer Sharif El-Gamal's vacant lot at 49-51 Park Place faces repossession, along with his incomplete luxury condo tower at 45 Park Place.
The site garnered national attention when El-Gamal proposed building an Islamic center on the plot, just blocks away from where the twin towers once stood.
Following protests in 2010, the plans were shelved and the developer pivoted to constructing high-end condos.
But court filings state his company has 'repeatedly failed' to make payments, with lender Blueberry Funding requesting permission to foreclose the premises and sell it off.
The site which became known as the 'Ground Zero Mosque' is facing foreclosure for defaulting on mortgage payments totaling $7.5 million
The vacant lot just blocks from the World Trade Center was due to be turned into an Islamic Center by developed Sharif El-Gamal, sparking furious protests from the families of 9/11 victims
The demonstrations were met with counter-protests from anti racism activists who argued there is a right to religious freedom
Jeremy Doberman, who represents the lender, said the company had tried to negotiate with El-Gamal numerous times.
His company, Park Place Partners Development was sent a notice of default, which went unanswered according to the suit, that states he owes $7.5 million plus interest.
'There comes a time when people's assurances are no longer good enough and in order to get paid back, you have to take things to the next step,' Doberman told The Real Deal. 'This is what the legal filing represents.'
The lawsuit is seeking repayment of the debt, along with at least $10,000 in legal fees.
The outstanding debt appears to be significantly lower than the value of the site if it were to be developed.
El-Gamal first acquired the dilapidated building in 2009. The premises formerly housed a Burlington Coat Factory store and had been damaged by the fuselage of one of the hijacked planes.
The store's two selling floors were destroyed when the landing gear from one of the planes tore through during the attacks.
El-Gamal put forward plans for a mosque as part of a proposed 13-story Muslim community center, which would have included a swimming pool, gym, theatre and sports facilities.
His company, Park Place Partners Development was sent a notice of default, which went unanswered according to the suit, that states he owes $7.5 million plus interest.
'There comes a time when people's assurances are no longer good enough and in order to get paid back, you have to take things to the next step,' Doberman told The Real Deal. 'This is what the legal filing represents.'
The lawsuit is seeking repayment of the debt, along with at least $10,000 in legal fees.
The outstanding debt appears to be significantly lower than the value of the site if it were to be developed.
El-Gamal first acquired the dilapidated building in 2009. The premises formerly housed a Burlington Coat Factory store and had been damaged by the fuselage of one of the hijacked planes.
The store's two selling floors were destroyed when the landing gear from one of the planes tore through during the attacks.
El-Gamal put forward plans for a mosque as part of a proposed 13-story Muslim community center, which would have included a swimming pool, gym, theatre and sports facilities.
Blueberry Funding, which lent the money to developer Sharif El-Gamal's company, is seeking the right to repossess 49-51 Park Place, along with an incomplete luxury condo tower at 45 Park Place
The site has a rocky history dating back to when it was first acquired by El-Gamal in 2009 who obtained permission to build a mosque despite the fierce backlash. Pictured: Leaders from various Muslim organizations at a press conference in front of the proposed site of mosque near Ground Zero on September 20, 2010
Today the site remains vacant except for a construction crane. El-Gamal decided to pivot to building luxury condos at the site in the wake of the protests which remain unfinished. However, the businessman remains positive about its prospects and teased 'big announcements' for the property
Construction was due to begin on September 11, 2011 - the 10th anniversary of the attacks.
The plans were divisive, with some 9/11 victims' families branding the proposals insensitive, while others stressed the need for religious freedom.
Protests against the construction were met with anti-racism demonstrations.
At some point amid the furor, El-Gamal quietly shelved the plans and, in 2014, began to develop luxury condos.
Plans for a scaled-down Islamic center stalled due to a lack of benefactors and funding.
Today, the 4,700-square-foot lot is only home to a construction crane, with the proposed condos unfinished.
But El-Gamal remains positive about the project's completion next year after recent success in a foreclosure lawsuit initiated by Malaysia's Maybank.
However Maybank's $170 million position was recently acquired by MSD Partners, which has ramped up the battle to foreclose 45 Park Place.
In a recent email, El-Gamal teased forthcoming 'big announcements' for the embattled project, the New York Post reports.
Any developments will be running in tandem with his ongoing foreclosure battles, including at Margaritaville, his Times Square hotel.
Construction was due to begin on September 11, 2011 - the 10th anniversary of the attacks.
The plans were divisive, with some 9/11 victims' families branding the proposals insensitive, while others stressed the need for religious freedom.
Protests against the construction were met with anti-racism demonstrations.
At some point amid the furor, El-Gamal quietly shelved the plans and, in 2014, began to develop luxury condos.
Plans for a scaled-down Islamic center stalled due to a lack of benefactors and funding.
Today, the 4,700-square-foot lot is only home to a construction crane, with the proposed condos unfinished.
But El-Gamal remains positive about the project's completion next year after recent success in a foreclosure lawsuit initiated by Malaysia's Maybank.
However Maybank's $170 million position was recently acquired by MSD Partners, which has ramped up the battle to foreclose 45 Park Place.
In a recent email, El-Gamal teased forthcoming 'big announcements' for the embattled project, the New York Post reports.
Any developments will be running in tandem with his ongoing foreclosure battles, including at Margaritaville, his Times Square hotel.
Unvaccinated Migrants Fuel Dramatic Spike in Chickenpox Cases in Chicago
Story by Andrew Stanton
A migrant father from Venezuela feeds his 15-month-old son in a police station in Chicago, Illinois on May 9, 2023. Chicago has experienced a surge in chickenpox cases as it continues grappling with an influx in migrants bused from Texas.
© Scott Olson/Getty Images
Unvaccinated migrants are fueling a surge in chickenpox cases in Chicago, local health officials said Thursday.
Nearly 400 cases of chickenpox in Chicago have been identified so far this year, with the past four weeks specifically marking an increase in cases, according to a health alert released by the Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH). From 2005 to 2022, the city averaged 53 cases of chickenpox per year, local television station WLS-TV reported.
The rise in chickenpox cases come as city officials across the country grapple with an influx of migrants. Migrants have been bused to several major cities as crossings remain high at the U.S.-Mexico border, but many officials say they lack the resources to cope with the increase. In Chicago, more than 25,000 migrants have arrived since August 31, 2022, according to city data.
Chickenpox is caused by the varicella-zoster virus and leads to an itchy rash with small, fluid-filled blisters. It is often mild and non-life-threatening, but can become serious and lead to other health problems such as infected skin, dehydration, pneumonia or the swelling of the brain. It can also lead to death in rare cases.
The illness spreads easily to individuals who have not received the vaccine or previously been infected, according to the Mayo Clinic. However, most Americans have received the vaccine, resulting in a decline in cases since its introduction in 1995.
A spokesperson for the CDPH told Newsweek on Friday that their team is working to provide infection control guidance to shelters.
"The Chicago Department of Public Health has a team dedicated to detecting and responding to reportable communicable diseases in shelters and other congregate settings. Cases of varicella have been reported in new arrivals, and in response the team has consulted with shelter managers and other facilities to provide infection control guidance," the statement said.
Most Chicagoans are not at risk of infection due to the high vaccination rate against the illness and others including measles, mumps, rubella, polio, according to the health alert.
In schools, the CDPH said it will provide a letter to parents or guardians whose children have come into contact with an infected individual, assist in reviewing vaccination records of close contacts, determine if any close contacts need to stay home from school and provide advice to immunocompromised students or staff exposed to the illness, according to the alert.
Texas has sent migrants to various "sanctuary cities" by bus since August 2022, a move critics say is playing politics with migrants and meant to overwhelm cities and states with more lenient policies surrounding immigration. Texas officials, however, say border communities struggle to contend with the rise in migration in recent years.
There were more than 2.4 million encounters at the U.S.-Mexico border during the 2023 fiscal year, up from roughly 1.7 million in 2021, according to data from U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP).
Chicago's City Council earlier this year approved $51 million in 2021 budget surplus to provide care for migrants. The vote divided the city's Democratic lawmakers, as some residents instead said the funds should be used to address Chicago's homeless population or to invest in its Black population. The money was set to be used to provide food, housing and staffing for migrants.
Update 12/15/23, 11:57 a.m. ET: This article was updated with comment from the Chicago Department of Public Health.
A migrant father from Venezuela feeds his 15-month-old son in a police station in Chicago, Illinois on May 9, 2023. Chicago has experienced a surge in chickenpox cases as it continues grappling with an influx in migrants bused from Texas.
© Scott Olson/Getty Images
Unvaccinated migrants are fueling a surge in chickenpox cases in Chicago, local health officials said Thursday.
Nearly 400 cases of chickenpox in Chicago have been identified so far this year, with the past four weeks specifically marking an increase in cases, according to a health alert released by the Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH). From 2005 to 2022, the city averaged 53 cases of chickenpox per year, local television station WLS-TV reported.
The rise in chickenpox cases come as city officials across the country grapple with an influx of migrants. Migrants have been bused to several major cities as crossings remain high at the U.S.-Mexico border, but many officials say they lack the resources to cope with the increase. In Chicago, more than 25,000 migrants have arrived since August 31, 2022, according to city data.
Chickenpox is caused by the varicella-zoster virus and leads to an itchy rash with small, fluid-filled blisters. It is often mild and non-life-threatening, but can become serious and lead to other health problems such as infected skin, dehydration, pneumonia or the swelling of the brain. It can also lead to death in rare cases.
The illness spreads easily to individuals who have not received the vaccine or previously been infected, according to the Mayo Clinic. However, most Americans have received the vaccine, resulting in a decline in cases since its introduction in 1995.
A spokesperson for the CDPH told Newsweek on Friday that their team is working to provide infection control guidance to shelters.
"The Chicago Department of Public Health has a team dedicated to detecting and responding to reportable communicable diseases in shelters and other congregate settings. Cases of varicella have been reported in new arrivals, and in response the team has consulted with shelter managers and other facilities to provide infection control guidance," the statement said.
Most Chicagoans are not at risk of infection due to the high vaccination rate against the illness and others including measles, mumps, rubella, polio, according to the health alert.
In schools, the CDPH said it will provide a letter to parents or guardians whose children have come into contact with an infected individual, assist in reviewing vaccination records of close contacts, determine if any close contacts need to stay home from school and provide advice to immunocompromised students or staff exposed to the illness, according to the alert.
Texas has sent migrants to various "sanctuary cities" by bus since August 2022, a move critics say is playing politics with migrants and meant to overwhelm cities and states with more lenient policies surrounding immigration. Texas officials, however, say border communities struggle to contend with the rise in migration in recent years.
There were more than 2.4 million encounters at the U.S.-Mexico border during the 2023 fiscal year, up from roughly 1.7 million in 2021, according to data from U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP).
Chicago's City Council earlier this year approved $51 million in 2021 budget surplus to provide care for migrants. The vote divided the city's Democratic lawmakers, as some residents instead said the funds should be used to address Chicago's homeless population or to invest in its Black population. The money was set to be used to provide food, housing and staffing for migrants.
Update 12/15/23, 11:57 a.m. ET: This article was updated with comment from the Chicago Department of Public Health.
Wednesday, December 13, 2023
Vivekian America
-Wikipedia.
(Vivek) Murthy was born in Huddersfield, Yorkshire (England),[7] to immigrants from Karnataka, India. He is the grandson of the late H. C. Narayana Murthy, the former director of Mysore Sugar Company, and son of Florida-based H. N. Lakshminarasimha Murthy and Maithreya Murthy. In 1978, the family crossed the Atlantic to Newfoundland, where his father worked as a district medical officer. When he was three years old, the family relocated to Miami,[7] and his parents established their medical practice.[8]
-Wikipedia.
Tuesday, December 12, 2023
Sunday, December 10, 2023
Saturday, December 09, 2023
Friday, December 08, 2023
DOUG THORNTON & THE BORDER WAR
Today's Show: DOUG THORNTON & THE BORDER WAR - 12.6.2023
Chris has an exclusive interview with former Federal police officer, Doug Thornton -- host of the American Vindicta podcast. We discuss his experience working on the Mexican border and the many warnings that have been given by federal agents and border patrol concerning the mass invasion of our country. Also discussed is the condition of the migrants (i.e. as "fighting age males") along with the role of the Roman Church in this process of violating America's national sovereignty through globalization. Chris also gives an update on the new documentary, "American Jesuits."
Listen
Thursday, December 07, 2023
US Risks Being Dragged Into Third War
Dec 07, 2023 at 11:36 AM EST
The U.S. could be heading toward involvement in another global conflict as tensions between Venezuela and neighboring Guyana skyrocket following a controversial referendum that sparked fears of a land grab in South America.
The U.S. military said on Thursday that its Southern Command forces would carry out "flight operations within Guyana" later in the day, and that Washington would "continue its commitment as Guyana's trusted security partner."
On Sunday, voters in Venezuela backed the proposals of Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro to claim sovereignty over the contested Essequibo region, which has been a bone of contention between Venezuela and Guyana for more than a century. The resource-rich Essequibo region is controlled by Georgetown, making up more than two-thirds of Guyana's territory.
An 1899 ruling declared Essequibo a part of Guyana, which was then a British colony. A 1966 agreement between the U.K. and Venezuela to resolve the dispute has not stopped the flaring of tensions between the two countries, which intensified after oil and gas giant ExxonMobil said in 2015 it had made a "a significant oil discovery" in the region.
READ MORE
Map shows region Venezuela has voted to take from Guyana
Guyana had asked the court to stop the referendum, suggesting Venezuela could take "unilateral measures to 'resolve' the controversy with Guyana by formally annexing and integrating into Venezuela all of the territory at issue."
Following the vote, Guyanese President Irfaan Ali denounced "a direct threat to Guyana's territorial integrity, sovereignty and political independence." Ali said Georgetown would "intensify precautionary measures to safeguard its territory," adding that he had spoken with the United Nations, global leaders and reached out to the U.S. military.
The Venezuelan government's actions "fly in the face of international law and constitute a grave threat to international peace and security," Ali said in an address to Guyanese citizens on Wednesday.
The language has clear echoes of the U.S. rationale for its involvement in the ongoing wars in the Middle East and eastern Europe, prompting speculation over how far U.S. military backing for international peace and order will extend in the Americas.
The U.S. is currently providing aid, including military backing, to Israel, increasing its support in the wake of the October 7 attacks launched by Palestinian militant group Hamas from the Gaza Strip. Washington has also thrown its weight behind Kyiv following Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.
The U.S. could be heading toward involvement in another global conflict as tensions between Venezuela and neighboring Guyana skyrocket following a controversial referendum that sparked fears of a land grab in South America.
The U.S. military said on Thursday that its Southern Command forces would carry out "flight operations within Guyana" later in the day, and that Washington would "continue its commitment as Guyana's trusted security partner."
On Sunday, voters in Venezuela backed the proposals of Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro to claim sovereignty over the contested Essequibo region, which has been a bone of contention between Venezuela and Guyana for more than a century. The resource-rich Essequibo region is controlled by Georgetown, making up more than two-thirds of Guyana's territory.
An 1899 ruling declared Essequibo a part of Guyana, which was then a British colony. A 1966 agreement between the U.K. and Venezuela to resolve the dispute has not stopped the flaring of tensions between the two countries, which intensified after oil and gas giant ExxonMobil said in 2015 it had made a "a significant oil discovery" in the region.
A member of the Bolivarian Militias stands guard at a polling station during a consultative referendum on Venezuelan sovereignty over the Essequibo region controlled by neighboring Guyana, in Caracas, Venezuela, on December 3, 2023. The U.S. could be shuffling toward involvement in another global conflict as tensions between Venezuela and Guyana skyrocket following a controversial referendum that sparked fears of a land grab in South America.PEDRO RANCES MATTEY/AFP VIA GETTY IMAGES
Venezuela says the 1966 Geneva Agreement effectively undid the 1899 ruling by international arbitrators.
The vote's results were perceived by Guyana as a step toward annexation. And there's precedent for such anxieties, as Russia has held referendums widely believed to be sham votes to try to legitimize claiming swathes of Ukraine.
"We have taken the first steps of a new historical stage to fight for our Guayana Esequiba, for peace and to recover what the liberators left us," Maduro said following the announcing of the referendum's results, referring to the region by its alternative name.
The U.N.'s top court, the International Court of Justice, had said that Caracas should not take any action that could change Guyana's control over the Essequibo region, but it stopped short of blocking Venezuela's vote.
Venezuela says the 1966 Geneva Agreement effectively undid the 1899 ruling by international arbitrators.
The vote's results were perceived by Guyana as a step toward annexation. And there's precedent for such anxieties, as Russia has held referendums widely believed to be sham votes to try to legitimize claiming swathes of Ukraine.
"We have taken the first steps of a new historical stage to fight for our Guayana Esequiba, for peace and to recover what the liberators left us," Maduro said following the announcing of the referendum's results, referring to the region by its alternative name.
The U.N.'s top court, the International Court of Justice, had said that Caracas should not take any action that could change Guyana's control over the Essequibo region, but it stopped short of blocking Venezuela's vote.
READ MORE
Map shows region Venezuela has voted to take from Guyana
Guyana had asked the court to stop the referendum, suggesting Venezuela could take "unilateral measures to 'resolve' the controversy with Guyana by formally annexing and integrating into Venezuela all of the territory at issue."
Following the vote, Guyanese President Irfaan Ali denounced "a direct threat to Guyana's territorial integrity, sovereignty and political independence." Ali said Georgetown would "intensify precautionary measures to safeguard its territory," adding that he had spoken with the United Nations, global leaders and reached out to the U.S. military.
The Venezuelan government's actions "fly in the face of international law and constitute a grave threat to international peace and security," Ali said in an address to Guyanese citizens on Wednesday.
The language has clear echoes of the U.S. rationale for its involvement in the ongoing wars in the Middle East and eastern Europe, prompting speculation over how far U.S. military backing for international peace and order will extend in the Americas.
The U.S. is currently providing aid, including military backing, to Israel, increasing its support in the wake of the October 7 attacks launched by Palestinian militant group Hamas from the Gaza Strip. Washington has also thrown its weight behind Kyiv following Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken spoke with Ali to "reaffirm the United States' unwavering support for Guyana's sovereignty" on Wednesday, the U.S. government said in a statement.
Just before the vote, Guyanese Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo said that "all options are on the table for the defense of our country." Brazil's Defense Ministry had also said it was bolstering its military presence along its northern border with Venezuela and Guyana.
Just before the vote, Guyanese Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo said that "all options are on the table for the defense of our country." Brazil's Defense Ministry had also said it was bolstering its military presence along its northern border with Venezuela and Guyana.
Tuesday, December 05, 2023
Monday, December 04, 2023
Cop28 president says there is ‘no science’ behind demands for phase-out of fossil fuels
Cop28
Exclusive: UAE’s Sultan Al Jaber says phase-out of coal, oil and gas would take world ‘back into caves’Cop28 live – latest updates
Damian Carrington and Ben StocktonSun 3 Dec 2023 05.33 EST
The president of Cop28, Sultan Al Jaber, has claimed there is “no science” indicating that a phase-out of fossil fuels is needed to restrict global heating to 1.5C, the Guardian and the Centre for Climate Reporting can reveal.
Al Jaber also said a phase-out of fossil fuels would not allow sustainable development “unless you want to take the world back into caves”.
The comments were “incredibly concerning” and “verging on climate denial”, scientists said, and they were at odds with the position of the UN secretary general, António Guterres.
Al Jaber made the comments in ill-tempered responses to questions from Mary Robinson, the chair of the Elders group and a former UN special envoy for climate change, during a live online event on 21 November. As well as running Cop28 in Dubai, Al Jaber is also the chief executive of the United Arab Emirates’ state oil company, Adnoc, which many observers see as a serious conflict of interest.
Cop28 president refuses to commit to phasing out fossil fuels – video
More than 100 countries already support a phase-out of fossil fuels and whether the final Cop28 agreement calls for this or uses weaker language such as “phase-down” is one of the most fiercely fought issues at the summit and may be the key determinant of its success. Deep and rapid cuts are needed to bring fossil fuel emissions to zero and limit fast-worsening climate impacts.
Sunday, December 03, 2023
The Pope: 'Faiths are bound to guard our common home together'
(Translated version of original article in Italian)
'The climate drama is also a religious drama, it is urgent to act for the environment'
DUBAI, December 03, 2023 12:58 pm
ANSA editorial staff
Pope Francis - All rights reserved
"It is important to come together, beyond our differences, as brothers and sisters in humanity, and above all as believers, to remind ourselves and the world that, as pilgrims waiting in this land, we are obliged to guard our common home."
This was stated by Pope Francis in his greeting on the occasion of the inauguration of the Faith Pavilion at Expo City, in Dubai, as part of COP28, which was read out by the Cardinal Secretary of State, Pietro Parolin.
"Religions, as consciences of humanity, remind us that we are finite creatures, inhabited by the need for the infinite," the Pontiff said. Yes, we are mortal, we are limited, and guarding life also means opposing the delusion of voracious omnipotence that is ravaging the planet. It arises when man considers himself lord of the world; when, living as if God did not exist, he allows himself to be carried away by the things that pass away."
"Then the human being, instead of having technology at his disposal, allows himself to be dominated by it," he emphasizes, "he 'commodifies' himself and becomes indifferent: incapable of weeping and pitiing (pitying), he remains alone with himself and, rising above morality and prudence, goes so far as to destroy even what allows him to live." "This is why the climate drama is also a religious drama," Francis adds, "because its root lies in the presumption of self-sufficiency of the creature."
The Pavilion of Faith, a platform to promote religious commitment
The Faith Pavilion established at Expo City Dubai by the Interfaith Center for Sustainable Development (ICSD), together with the Muslim Council of Elders, the UN Environment Program's Faith for Earth and other partners, is the first Pavilion of its kind in the history of UN COP climate conferences. The Pavilion serves as a global platform to promote religious engagement and interfaith dialogue in the implementation of effective measures to address the climate crisis. The initiative, emphasizing the importance of engaging religious figures and leaders in developing strategies to address global challenges, including the pursuit of environmental justice, gives them the opportunity to launch proposals and present ideas that support the efforts of all nations and peoples of the world to combat climate change. In this regard, at the end of the inauguration ceremony, a "Confluence of Conscience" will also be signed by the Pope (Cardinal Parolin will do so in his place), the President of the United Arab Emirates, Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar.
'It is urgent to act for the environment, faiths must educate to change lives'
"It is urgent to act for the environment, but it is not enough just to use more economic resources: we need to change the way of life and it is therefore necessary to educate to sober and fraternal lifestyles." This is what Pope Francis said in his greeting. "It is an indispensable action for religions, which are also called to educate in contemplation, because creation is not only a system to be preserved, but a gift to be welcomed," the Pontiff added. And a world poor in contemplation will be a world polluted in the soul, which will continue to discard people and produce waste; A world without prayer will say many words but, devoid of compassion and tears, it will live only on a materialism made up of money and weapons."
'Preserving creation, the little ones and the poor ask of us'
"I cordially greet you and I am very sorry that I cannot be with you. I entrust to Cardinal Parolin the words that I would have liked to address to you. I would like to say 'thank you': thank you because you have created, for the first time, a religious pavilion within a COP. And thank you because this testifies to the willingness to work together."
"Today the world needs alliances that are not against anyone, but in favor of all," the Pontiff continued. It is urgent that religions, without falling into the trap of syncretism, set a good example by working together: not for their own interests or those of one party, but for the interests of our world." Among them, "the most important today are peace and climate."
"Let us set an example, as religious representatives, to show that change is possible, to bear witness to respectful and sustainable lifestyles, and let us ask the leaders of nations to preserve our common home," Francis said. "This is what the little ones and the poor ask of us in particular, whose prayers reach the throne of the Most High," he concludes. For their future and the future of all, let us protect
'The task of faiths is also to preserve peace, no inconsistencies'
"We know how interdependent peace and the care of creation are: it is clear to all how wars and conflicts damage the environment and divide nations, hindering a shared commitment on common issues, such as the protection of the planet." This was stated by Pope Francis in his greeting on the occasion of the inauguration of the Faith Pavilion.
"A home, in fact, is livable for everyone only if a climate of peace is established inside," the Pontiff said. So it is with our Earth, whose soil seems to unite with the cry of children and the poor to make a single plea reach heaven: peace!"
"Preserving peace is also the task of religions," Francis warned. Please don't let there be any inconsistencies on this. Do not deny with facts what you say with your lips: do not limit yourself to talking about peace, but take a clear stand against those who, by declaring themselves believers, feed hatred and do not oppose violence." The Pope concludes his greeting with an invitation to "be, together, builders of peace and guardians of creation."
All rights reserved © Copyright ANSA
'The climate drama is also a religious drama, it is urgent to act for the environment'
DUBAI, December 03, 2023 12:58 pm
ANSA editorial staff
Pope Francis - All rights reserved
"It is important to come together, beyond our differences, as brothers and sisters in humanity, and above all as believers, to remind ourselves and the world that, as pilgrims waiting in this land, we are obliged to guard our common home."
This was stated by Pope Francis in his greeting on the occasion of the inauguration of the Faith Pavilion at Expo City, in Dubai, as part of COP28, which was read out by the Cardinal Secretary of State, Pietro Parolin.
"Religions, as consciences of humanity, remind us that we are finite creatures, inhabited by the need for the infinite," the Pontiff said. Yes, we are mortal, we are limited, and guarding life also means opposing the delusion of voracious omnipotence that is ravaging the planet. It arises when man considers himself lord of the world; when, living as if God did not exist, he allows himself to be carried away by the things that pass away."
"Then the human being, instead of having technology at his disposal, allows himself to be dominated by it," he emphasizes, "he 'commodifies' himself and becomes indifferent: incapable of weeping and pitiing (pitying), he remains alone with himself and, rising above morality and prudence, goes so far as to destroy even what allows him to live." "This is why the climate drama is also a religious drama," Francis adds, "because its root lies in the presumption of self-sufficiency of the creature."
The Pavilion of Faith, a platform to promote religious commitment
The Faith Pavilion established at Expo City Dubai by the Interfaith Center for Sustainable Development (ICSD), together with the Muslim Council of Elders, the UN Environment Program's Faith for Earth and other partners, is the first Pavilion of its kind in the history of UN COP climate conferences. The Pavilion serves as a global platform to promote religious engagement and interfaith dialogue in the implementation of effective measures to address the climate crisis. The initiative, emphasizing the importance of engaging religious figures and leaders in developing strategies to address global challenges, including the pursuit of environmental justice, gives them the opportunity to launch proposals and present ideas that support the efforts of all nations and peoples of the world to combat climate change. In this regard, at the end of the inauguration ceremony, a "Confluence of Conscience" will also be signed by the Pope (Cardinal Parolin will do so in his place), the President of the United Arab Emirates, Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar.
'It is urgent to act for the environment, faiths must educate to change lives'
"It is urgent to act for the environment, but it is not enough just to use more economic resources: we need to change the way of life and it is therefore necessary to educate to sober and fraternal lifestyles." This is what Pope Francis said in his greeting. "It is an indispensable action for religions, which are also called to educate in contemplation, because creation is not only a system to be preserved, but a gift to be welcomed," the Pontiff added. And a world poor in contemplation will be a world polluted in the soul, which will continue to discard people and produce waste; A world without prayer will say many words but, devoid of compassion and tears, it will live only on a materialism made up of money and weapons."
'Preserving creation, the little ones and the poor ask of us'
"I cordially greet you and I am very sorry that I cannot be with you. I entrust to Cardinal Parolin the words that I would have liked to address to you. I would like to say 'thank you': thank you because you have created, for the first time, a religious pavilion within a COP. And thank you because this testifies to the willingness to work together."
"Today the world needs alliances that are not against anyone, but in favor of all," the Pontiff continued. It is urgent that religions, without falling into the trap of syncretism, set a good example by working together: not for their own interests or those of one party, but for the interests of our world." Among them, "the most important today are peace and climate."
"Let us set an example, as religious representatives, to show that change is possible, to bear witness to respectful and sustainable lifestyles, and let us ask the leaders of nations to preserve our common home," Francis said. "This is what the little ones and the poor ask of us in particular, whose prayers reach the throne of the Most High," he concludes. For their future and the future of all, let us protect
creation and protect our common home; Let us live in peace and promote peace!"
'The task of faiths is also to preserve peace, no inconsistencies'
"We know how interdependent peace and the care of creation are: it is clear to all how wars and conflicts damage the environment and divide nations, hindering a shared commitment on common issues, such as the protection of the planet." This was stated by Pope Francis in his greeting on the occasion of the inauguration of the Faith Pavilion.
"A home, in fact, is livable for everyone only if a climate of peace is established inside," the Pontiff said. So it is with our Earth, whose soil seems to unite with the cry of children and the poor to make a single plea reach heaven: peace!"
"Preserving peace is also the task of religions," Francis warned. Please don't let there be any inconsistencies on this. Do not deny with facts what you say with your lips: do not limit yourself to talking about peace, but take a clear stand against those who, by declaring themselves believers, feed hatred and do not oppose violence." The Pope concludes his greeting with an invitation to "be, together, builders of peace and guardians of creation."
All rights reserved © Copyright ANSA
Saturday, December 02, 2023
Societal Malaise
Volume 42 Issue Twelve December 2023
Last Trumpet Ministries · PO Box 806 · Beaver Dam, WI 53916
Phone: 920-887-2626 Internet: http://www.lasttrumpetministries.org
“For if the trumpet give an uncertain sound, who shall prepare himself to the battle?” I Cor. 14:8
Societal Malaise
“And thou hast removed my soul far off from peace: I forgat prosperity. And I said, My strength and my hope is perished from the LORD.”
Lamentations 3:17-18
Reading the news can be quite exasperating. Those who set out to learn about current events will often find confusing headlines and mixed signals. For example, countless news stories are proclaiming that the American economy is surprisingly strong. This includes a November 3, 2023, piece by The Wall Street Journal with the headline, “The Improbably Strong Economy.” (1) The report notes that unemployment in the United States is low, average hourly earnings have been rising, and despite the many predictions from economists to the contrary, recession has been avoided in 2023. We’re even told that inflation is finally cooling down. (2) This all sounds like good news. Yet, the national mood in the United States tells a different story.
Despite the efforts of the mass media to convince us that everything is wonderful, the American populace remains unconvinced. A headline from CNN published on November 8, 2023, declares, “Americans think the economy stinks, but wages are up and so is spending. Economists and political strategists are baffled.” (3) The report goes on to cite a recent CNN poll that found 72 percent of respondents say “things in this country today are going badly.” Another poll from the New York Times and Siena College found that a mere 2 percent of respondents said the economy is excellent. (4) Why is there a disparity between what we are told by the media and how the American people feel? Is everything getting better and better every day as they suggest, or is the reality far different for people living in the real world?
One of the primary reasons the American people are so down on the economy is because of persistently high inflation. When inflation is high, it affects almost everything we buy. Every time we visit a supermarket, we’re reminded of the fact that we’re spending far more money on our groceries than we were three years ago. While reports indicate that inflation in October 2023 fell to only 3.2 percent, (5) the prices we pay still remain much higher than they used to be. In fact, the cost of groceries has risen on average by 25 percent since February 2020. (6)
One of the reasons economists say the economy is strong is because consumers have continued to spend gobs of money even as inflation remained stubbornly high. How is this possible? The American people have taken dramatic and sometimes desperate steps to maintain their standard of living. According to the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, Americans now owe a record-high 1.08 trillion dollars on their credit cards. (7) As credit card debt rises, the number of delinquent accounts is also increasing, which prompted The Wall Street Journal to report on November 25, 2023, “American borrowers are getting closer to maxing out.” The piece notes that households earning less than $50,000 per year with delinquent accounts are utilizing on average 80 to 90 percent of their available credit. (8) Thus, many who have been using credit cards to get by in recent years won’t be able to do this for much longer. Not only that, but getting new credit cards is becoming more difficult. “Tighter financial and credit conditions for households and businesses are likely to weigh on economic activity, hiring, and inflation,” the Federal Reserve said in a November 2023 statement. (9)
Friday, December 01, 2023
Canon law must be part of church's mission of mercy, pope says
Code of Canon Law books for the Latin and Eastern Catholic churches are pictured in Rome at the Pontifical Oriental Institute in this Sept. 15, 2016, file photo. (CNS photo/Paul Haring)
CINDY WOODEN
CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE
Vatican City — December 1, 2023
All the Catholic Church's structures, including tribunals and faculties of canon law, must undergo a "pastoral and missionary conversion" to ensure the church is giving the world "the only thing it needs: the Gospel of the mercy of Jesus," Pope Francis wrote.
"To be pastoral does not mean that the norms should be set aside, and one sets off in whatever direction one wishes, but that in applying the norms one should make certain that the Christian faithful find in them the presence of the merciful Jesus, who does not condemn but exhorts them to sin no more because he gives grace," the pope wrote to an international group of canon law scholars.
Francis made his remarks in a message to the "Consociatio Internationalis Studio Iuris Canonici Promovendo" (literally translated as the international association for promoting the study of canon law), which was celebrating its 50th anniversary with a conference in Rome Dec. 1.
When canon law is an instrument of mercy, the pope wrote, "even when a severe sanction is to be applied to one who has committed a very serious crime, the Church, which is mother, will offer him the help and spiritual support that is indispensable so that in repentance he may encounter the merciful face of the Father."
In its application, he said, each church law must be interpreted in light of the "supreme law," which is "salus animarum," the salvation of souls.
The application of canon law is something which must be done in prayer and with fidelity to the word of God, the living tradition of the church and the magisterium or teachings of the popes, he said.
"The wisdom that comes from God, received in prayer and in listening to others," he said, should guide canonists "in distinguishing what is essential in the daily life of the Church, inasmuch as it is desired by Christ himself and established by the Apostles, and also expressed in the Magisterium, and what instead is merely a set of external forms, perhaps useful and significant in the past, but no longer so in the present or, indeed sometimes, an impediment to a witness that, especially today, requires greater simplicity to be credible."
As a model, Francis pointed to most Catholics' mothers, who first taught them the faith. This essentiality of faith is what was transmitted to us by our mothers, the first evangelizers. "Why not take her as a point of reference regarding the attitude of spirit to be lived in the various situations of Church life?"
The pope thanked the canon lawyers for their contributions to church life and prayed that they would be "instruments of God's justice, which is always inseparably united with his mercy."
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