Friday, July 18, 2025
"8647 Comey"
"8647 Comey" refers to a recent controversy involving former FBI Director James Comey and a social media post.
Here's a breakdown:
The Incident: Comey posted a picture on Instagram of seashells forming the numbers "8647" on a beach, captioning it, "Cool shell formation on my beach walk". He later deleted the post.
"8647" Meaning: The number "86" is a slang term with several meanings, most commonly "to get rid of" or "throw out". Some also associate it with violence, meaning "to kill". The "47" refers to Donald Trump, the 47th President of the United States. The phrase "8647" has also been used as a way to silently protest Trump.
The Controversy: Republicans and Trump allies interpreted Comey's post as a veiled threat against Trump, even suggesting it was a call for assassination. Donald Trump Jr. specifically accused Comey of "calling for my dad to be murdered".
Comey's Explanation: Comey stated he was unaware of the violent interpretation of "86," saying he believed it was a political message and that he opposes violence of any kind. He told MSNBC he thought the formation was "clever" and created by "somebody with artistic flair" and no "dark intention".
Investigation and Consequences: The U.S. Secret Service and the Department of Homeland Security began investigating the post. Comey was interviewed by the Secret Service for about an hour. There were also calls from some Republicans for Comey to face legal consequences. It is unclear if the investigation has concluded or what any next steps would entail.
Reactions and investigation:
The post generated strong reactions from Republicans and led to an investigation by the Secret Service and the Department of Homeland Security.
Comey voluntarily participated in the questioning for about an hour.
The investigation and the meaning of the post remain subjects of ongoing discussion.
References:
Google AI
FBI Director James Comey's "Hard Truths: Law Enforcement and Race" speech at Georgetown University
In 2015, former FBI Director James Comey delivered a speech at Georgetown University titled "Hard Truths: Law Enforcement and Race". In this speech, he addressed the complex relationship between law enforcement and diverse communities, particularly in the context of race. He acknowledged the disconnect between police agencies and some citizens, especially in communities of color, and called for open and honest conversations about these issues, according to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (.gov).
Comey's speech was prompted by the national conversation surrounding race and law enforcement following incidents like the shooting of Michael Brown in Ferguson, Missouri. He emphasized that racial bias is not unique to law enforcement but exists in all segments of society. Comey urged law enforcement to confront their own biases and work towards building trust with all communities, according to the FBI. He also advocated for improved data collection on police interactions with minority communities to better understand and address systemic issues.
Comey's speech was prompted by the national conversation surrounding race and law enforcement following incidents like the shooting of Michael Brown in Ferguson, Missouri. He emphasized that racial bias is not unique to law enforcement but exists in all segments of society. Comey urged law enforcement to confront their own biases and work towards building trust with all communities, according to the FBI. He also advocated for improved data collection on police interactions with minority communities to better understand and address systemic issues.
The speech was seen as a significant moment, marking the first time a top FBI official had publicly addressed racial bias in law enforcement with such candor. It sparked a national conversation about race and policing.
Subsequent Events:
Comey also spoke at Georgetown's International Conference on Cyber Engagement in 2016, according to Georgetown University.
References:
Former CIA DirectorJohn Brennan is a Distinguished Fellow at Georgetown University's Center on National Security
John Brennan, former CIA Director, is currently a Distinguished Fellow at Georgetown University's Center on National Security. He also holds positions as a Senior National Security and Intelligence Analyst for NBC and MSNBC, and is a Principal at WestExec Advisors. Previously, he served as President Obama's Assistant to the President for Homeland Security and Counterterrorism before becoming CIA Director.
John Brennan, former Director of the CIA, has a connection to Georgetown University through speaking engagements and his role at the Center on National Security. He served as CIA Director from 2013 to 2017. Before becoming Director, he was the Deputy National Security Advisor and also led the National Counterterrorism Center. He also has strong ties to Fordham University, where he earned his bachelor's degree, and the University of Texas at Austin, where he earned his master's.
Brennan's role at Georgetown University involves contributing his expertise and insights on national security, foreign policy, and the rule of law. He participates in conferences, workshops, and other events hosted by the Center on National Security. Additionally, he serves as a mentor to students interested in government service and national security careers.
Prior to his current positions, Brennan had a long career in the CIA, including roles as Chief of Staff to Director George Tenet and Director of the National Counterterrorism Center. He also served as the CIA's daily intelligence briefer to President Clinton. In 2013, he was appointed as the Director of the CIA by President Obama, serving in that capacity until 2017.
Brennan's connection to Georgetown extends beyond this specific event. He is also a figure who has been scrutinized for his role in the 2016 election and the handling of intelligence related to Russian interference. His actions and statements have been the subject of both Congressional investigations and public debate.
Brennan's tenure as CIA Director was marked by several significant events, including the investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election and the raid that killed Osama bin Laden. He has also been a vocal critic of former President Trump.
Sources:
Criminal investigation into former FBI, CIA heads James Comey and John B...
Criminal investigation into former FBI, CIA heads James Comey and John Brennan draws mixed reactions
CBS6 Albany
Jul 15, 2025
A new report claimed the Department of Justice might appoint a special prosecutor for a possible criminal grand conspiracy case as the investigation continues into former FBI Director James Comey and former CIA Director John Brennan.
FBI Director Kash Patel recently called the Russian collusion hoax "the biggest political criminal scheme ever perpetrated by portions of the FBI leadership and other elements of the intelligence community.”
Former FBI Special Agent in Charge Jody Weis said he "couldn’t be happier" the investigation into Comey and Brennan was launched.
Both Brennan and Comey are now under fire for allegedly making false statements to Congress about the investigation and the decision to examine claims in a Steele dossier from a former British spy. The dossier alleged coordination between the Russian government and the Trump campaign.
Read more: https://cbs6albany.com/news/nation-wo...
Thursday, July 17, 2025
Israeli forces strike Catholic Parish in Gaza
The Holy Family Parish in Gaza (AFP or licensors)
The Holy Family Church, the only Catholic Church in Gaza, was struck by a raid this morning, resulting in three deaths and several injuries, including the Parish priest, Father Gabriel Romanelli. In a statement, the Latin Patriarchate in Jerusalem appeals to leaders "to raise their voices and to do all that is necessary in order to stop this tragedy which is humanly and morally unjustified."
By Vatican News
The Holy Family Church, the only Catholic Church in the Gaza Strip, was hit by a tank this morning. Three people subsequently died from their injuries. Others were reportedly wounded more lightly, including the parish priest, Father Gabriel Romanelli.
Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, earlier spoke to Vatican News:
“What we know for sure is that a tank, the IDF says by mistake, but we are not sure about this, they hit the Church directly, the Church of the Holy Family, the Latin Church”, he said. “There are four people seriously wounded, among these four, two are in very dramatic conditions and their lives are in serious danger”.
'Jesus Wept': Chris Coons Decries GOP's Proposed Cuts To Foreign Disaste...
'Jesus Wept': Chris Coons Decries GOP's Proposed Cuts To Foreign Disaster Relief And Food Assistance
During remarks on the Senate floor Wednesday, Sen. Chris Coons (D-DE) spoke about proposed cuts to foreign disaster relief and food assistance
----______----
P.S.
Chris Coons
(Wikipedia)
Personal life
Personal life
Annie and Chris Coons at the inauguration of Joe Biden in 2021
Coons is married to Annie Coons, née Lingenfelter.[108] They have three children, twins Mike and Jack, and daughter Maggie, and they live in Wilmington, Delaware. Coons is Presbyterian, his wife is Catholic, and they attend St. Ann Catholic Church in the city. Coons describes himself as "someone who is, privately, fairly religious," though he has never thought "that needs to be a big part of [campaigning]."[109]
Coons is married to Annie Coons, née Lingenfelter.[108] They have three children, twins Mike and Jack, and daughter Maggie, and they live in Wilmington, Delaware. Coons is Presbyterian, his wife is Catholic, and they attend St. Ann Catholic Church in the city. Coons describes himself as "someone who is, privately, fairly religious," though he has never thought "that needs to be a big part of [campaigning]."[109]
DeVon Franklin gets real in one-man show 'Be True' – only in NYC
DeVon Franklin gets real in one-man show 'Be True' – only in NYC
PIX11 News
Jul 17, 2025
DeVon Franklin — producer, actor, bestselling author, and speaker — brings his most personal project to the stage with "Be True: My Journey from Breakdown to Breakthrough," a bold one-man theatrical debut at New York City's Minetta Lane Theatre for two nights only.
----____----
P.S.
Plot Twist: Meagan Good’s Trainer Played Matchmaker for Ex-Husband DeVon Franklin and His New Fiancée
Posted byBy Y. Kyles | Published on: February 14, 2025
Pastor DeVon Franklin, 46, is headed to the altar again. The Seventh-day Adventist has proposed to his girlfriend, fitness influencer Maria Castillo, two years after divorcing his first wife, Meagan Good.
Castillo, 29, reportedly said yes to Franklin’s proposal during a holiday vacation on Dec. 27, 2024, which was revealed in an interview with People magazine.
The couple wore matching white outfits in their Hawaii-set photographs as his wife-to-be seemed to be under the impression they were posing for photos at a scenic spot.
Wednesday, July 16, 2025
Northern California Conference Offering Psycho-Spiritual Formation Classes for $775
Northern California Conference Offering Psycho-Spiritual Formation Classes for $775
July 14, 2025 Gerry Wagoner
Oh great.
Here we go again.
“Dear Pastor,
We are pleased to announce that registration is now open for the Kintsugi Trauma-Informed Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) Program, designed specifically for Northern California Conference pastors.
This innovative program integrates traditional CPE training with Kintsugi Resilience—a spiritually grounded approach to healing, formation, and pastoral growth. It transcends professional development; it invites personal renewal.
Program Highlights:
Dates: August 11 – December 15, 2025
Format: Weekly Zoom (3.5 hrs) + occasional in-person gatherings
Cost: $775 per unit. Utilize your $500 CEU allowance. Monthly installments available.
July 14, 2025 Gerry Wagoner
Oh great.
Here we go again.
“Dear Pastor,
We are pleased to announce that registration is now open for the Kintsugi Trauma-Informed Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) Program, designed specifically for Northern California Conference pastors.
This innovative program integrates traditional CPE training with Kintsugi Resilience—a spiritually grounded approach to healing, formation, and pastoral growth. It transcends professional development; it invites personal renewal.
Program Highlights:
- 400 hours of supervised clinical ministry per unit
- Trauma-informed care, theological reflection, and spiritual formation
- Small group format (5-member cohort)
- Led by certified CPE supervisors
- CPSP-accredited through Community Care Chaplains
Dates: August 11 – December 15, 2025
Format: Weekly Zoom (3.5 hrs) + occasional in-person gatherings
Cost: $775 per unit. Utilize your $500 CEU allowance. Monthly installments available.
Tuesday, July 15, 2025
‘They Fear Us Like No Other’ — Alice Weidel’s CPAC Speech | Viktor Orban...
‘They Fear Us Like No Other’ — Alice Weidel’s CPAC Speech | Viktor Orban | APT
APT
Alice Weidel, chair of Germany’s Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, gave a bold speech at CPAC Hungary 2025, claiming that the media and political elites “fear us like no other party — with good reason.” Speaking before Prime Minister Viktor Orbán and other conservative leaders, Weidel warned of rising censorship, opposition surveillance, and democratic backsliding in Germany.
Monday, July 14, 2025
Trump announces novel plan to send weapons to Ukraine and gives Russia new deadline to make peace
By Kevin Liptak, CNN
Updated 1:06 PM EDT, Mon July 14, 2025
Bonnie Cash/UPI/Bloomberg/Getty Images
US President Donald Trump walks on the South Lawn of the White House after arriving on Marine One in Washington, DC, US, on Sunday, July 13, 2025.
US President Donald Trump walks on the South Lawn of the White House after arriving on Marine One in Washington, DC, US, on Sunday, July 13, 2025.
CNN —
President Donald Trump on Monday laid out a pair of steps intended to pressure Russia to end its war in Ukraine, including funneling new weapons to Kyiv and threatening economic punishment on Moscow if peace isn’t reached in 50 days, as he grows increasingly disenchanted with his Russian counterpart.
Taken together, the moves amount to a markedly new approach to the conflict, which Trump has worked to distance himself from since taking office in January. Even as he delivered the announcement from the Oval Office, the president argued he wasn’t to blame for the prolonged war.
Still, he appeared entirely fed up with Russian President Vladimir Putin. And he acknowledged American weaponry – however it is delivered – would be necessary if Kyiv is to stave off a full-bore invasion.
“I felt we had a deal about four times,” Trump said, referring to a prospective peace agreement with Russia. “But it just kept going on and on.”
The plan the president unveiled Monday – which would see European nations purchase American weapons, then transfer them to Ukraine – has been under discussion for months, ever since Trump won last year’s election and European officials quickly began deliberating on ways to sustain US weapons shipments to Ukraine under a leader who had vowed to pull back American support.
Sunday, July 13, 2025
2025 – Montréal Inclusive Solidarities: Reimagining Boundaries in Divided Times
Conference dates: 1-3 July 2025 (virtual); 9-12 July 2025 (in Montréal)
Inclusive Solidarities: Reimagining Boundaries in Divided Times
Solidarity is a central value practiced across social and labor movements and a key principle underpinning social democracies. It is also a term with many meanings, referring to the cohesion of groups, the development of social policy and welfare states, or the goals and tactics of labor and social movement organizations. Solidarity in all its forms involves an act of political and social imagination – to identify who one is willing to act in solidarity with, or who are the members of one’s ‘imagined community’ (Anderson 1983). How community is defined, and how the boundaries around that community are drawn or imagined, have implications for who is included and excluded in collective action to redistribute power and resources, to demand rights, and to fight oppression.
The theme of this year’s SASE meeting recognizes the importance of reimagining the boundaries that define commitments to and practices of inclusive solidarity, at a time when the most visible trends are toward intensified divisions. Tens of thousands of lives have been lost in wars, invasions, and violent conflicts over the past year alone. Climate change is fueling displacement and famine, while attempts to mitigate carbon emissions encourage organizing for and against policies to reform farming, manufacturing, and energy production. Far right political parties have experienced growing support, with recent major election wins in Europe and Latin America – and a rising share of the popular vote in many countries world-wide. And multinational companies and their investors continue to adapt to a post-COVID global economy through pursuing particularistic interests within and across national boundaries, from opposing proposed regulation of AI and platform work to challenging the right to strike as a critical dimension of the ILO’s fundamental right to freedom of association.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)