Saints?? Bring on the Panters....of PARMA

New Orleans Saints?!?!?!....Don’t Need ‘Em…..We have the Parma Panthers!

12/30/08

Buongiorno.
I have disconnected myself from New Orleans Saints winning seasons long ago.
Yes, I would love for them to win.
Yes, I was excited the first season of the Brees/Bush era. They had a good year.
It they would ever win a Super Bowl, Yes, I would be happy.
When they play foolish and dim-witted, it aggravates me (BECAUSE THEY MAKE LOTS OF MONEY!).
Do I get mad when they lose, not for a long time?
(LSU – that is a different story)

I have read every book written by a few authors (or have them in line to read). Ted Dekker, Joel C. Rosenberg and John Grisham are a few of these authors.
I was fortunate to finish Grisham’s Playing For Pizza recently.
Like another one of books based in Italy (The Broker), I have a strong desire to go to Italy after reading the book.
I won’t go into great detail of the book. It a great read if you get a chance to grab it. In the book, the sport of Americano Football was prevalent.
I always knew they played American Football in Italy and also realized that it paled in popularity to Soccer.
Grisham’s book did what I wish for and crave when I read or watch a movie. It caused me to research, think, and hope and to want to explore.
I researched (the research has only begun) the Parma Panthers http://www.panthers.it/ football club and the Italian Football clubs.
I thought (while reading) about how the portions of Italy discussed in the book would be in real life.
I have a hope of a future visit to Italy (especially Parma – They make Parmesan cheese there) and to watch an American Football game.
It is causing me to explore (not only the Internet but also my own thoughts of Italy).

So back to Football.
The real Parma Panthers http://www.panthers.it/ have 2 new fans.
The 2008 Italian Football League http://www.ifleague.it/ season (runs from about March to May) was a success for the Panthers. The club went 8 wins and 2 losses and made it to the Semi Finals but lost to the mighty Bergamo Lions. The only paid players in the league or the Americans (And each team is allowed to only have 2 or 3). So these guys really do play for the love of the game.
If you are interested in broadening your sports horizons, check out some of the links provided. Until the 2009 season, this starts in about 3 months,
CHAO!

It's Christmas Time in the City

Christmas

12-25-2008

Our Christmas gift to you....

Pictures of our Christmas Cactus.

This plant grew as it's vessel brew. It was in a small pot and it stayed small. We moved it into a larger planter and it grew and flourished.

The REAL meaning of Christmas is like this. We can spread the true meaning around and enlarge the vessel in which we keep it in, us. We can let it out and spread it to the world.

We celebrate this day because Jesus was born to ultimately save us.

Open your Bible, turn to the book of Matthew and start reading.

Now enjoy these pics of our Christmas Cactus.

Notes from China

Notes from China
-sort of –
-not really –

Dec. 20, 2008

Like many towns or areas across the USA, ours has that great American Institution.
THE LOCAL CHINESE RESTAURANT.

We actually have 4 (used to be 5) with in (what is probably) a 10 mile stretch on Hwy. 90. Two of these are menu only and two are buffet style.

We went to one the other night and after we ate and were paying the bill we witnessed one of the most entertaining exchanges between 2 people.
Very little (maybe none at all) words were spoken by one party.
We were paying the bill and one of the cooks brought a “to go” box and put it on the counter by the lady who took our money. She looked at the box, grabbed it and said something fast in half Chinese – half American. She had a disenchanted scowl on her face as she held the box. She immediately began to work on the wire handle of the box. It was totally bent out of shape. As though mesmerized by whatever authority she had over him, the cook just stood there. We, as innocent bystanders, also looked at both of them. As she spoke she looked at him and us. She completed her wire work and wiped the top of the box. She told him something we couldn’t totally make out and he went back to the kitchen to clean the box. She told us sorry – I think – and proceeded to finalize our transaction. Then she said that it is hard to work with the cook because of the language barrier. That is our translation of what she told us. You see, the cook was Latin and we can only assume that he spoke little or no English – based on her broken English explanation to us. It was all rather enjoyable and fun.
It made for a great ending for our meal.

Sports Illustrated has a segment each week that is titled “Sign of the Apocalypse”.
I had my own “Sign of the Apocalypse” moment at the Chinese restaurant.
You know the Apocalypse is close when your local Chinese restaurant is skimpy on the Black mushrooms in their Hot and Sour soup.

Well, we went back the next day and discovered it wasn’t the Apocalypse after all. The next night, the Hot and Sour soup was FULL of those wonderful Black mushrooms.

But much to our disappointment, we did not get an encore of the Chinese-American/Latino-American “go box” exchange.

Things I Circled in the 12-16-08 Times Pic

12-16-08

Today, I had the day off. It was one of those "Have to take it or you lose it day". The company doesn't think that way when I have to work Christmas Eve and the day after Christmas - when 87.3% of the company I work for will be home.
Oh well.
today my wife worked half a day so I drove her in. We had breakfast at Penny's Place - probably our favorite breakfast place. I sat in one of their rooms in her office while she worked and read my book - drank a diet coke - dozed - perused the newspaper ( New Orleans' The Times-Picayune). http://www.timespicayune.com/
I had my trust BLUE pen with me......I love that Pen....time to order more...I only have 3 left.....so I circled some of the Headlines and stories that caught my eye.

COSTLY MANDATE - this was a story about losing our Louisiana coastline. I am not done with the story, but the news is not good and hasn't been for some time.

MIDYEAR CUTS LIKELY IN STATE BUDGET - the writing is on the wall...almost everywhere. And please "anti-Jindal" folks....don't blame our governor.

OBAMA TAPS N.O. GRADUATE FOR EPA - I must say, I have been very happy with the folks President Elect Obama has picked so far.... He even received kudos at the Barber shop - Very Republican people in there - today.

And probably one of my favorites of the day...
BRAWL ERUPTS BETWEEN TWO LAWYERS AT CIVIL COURT - Once a "gentleman's profession" (not my words - but i agree) is becoming what......?
Basically these 2 lawyers got into a fight. They were pushing rival class action law suits. What is this world coming to? These are highly educated people, but highly stupid.

IN SHOE-HURLING INCIDENT, ARABS FIND A HERO (AND IT'S NOT BUSH) - Two thoughts: 1-Bush is lucky this guy didn't have bigger feet. 2-he hummed that shoe pretty hard - I think the DODGERS should sign him as a pitcher.

And finally...........(there are a lot more that I circled - but I am tired)

This is the best of the day....

GUINEA PIGS: THE OTHER HOLIDAY MEAT - It appears that in officials in the Peruvian province Callao "hailed the Andean rodent as a low-cost, low-fat alternative to a traditional turkey or roast pork Christmas dinner." Apparently people in Peru have been eating these for a while. It says that the G. PIG can feed about 7 people for $3.20. That must be a bigger G. Pig than what we are used to.
Last thought......I would love to try it.
mmmmmmmmmmmmmmm

Good night.

Crazy Louisiana Weather

Crazy Louisiana Weather
12-15-08
We had SNOW last week and it was cold!!!!!!
Last night we wore shorts and slept with the ceiling fan on the high speed.

Hurricanes vs. Tornadoes vs. Earth Quakes

The debate always rises. Which would you prefer? Most people down south say the Hurricane due the fact that we know it is coming.
Well if I was given the choice. I would pick NONE OF THE ABOVE - thank you!

Saturday 12/6/08

Saturday – 12/6/08 – and an array of this and that

On Saturday, 12/6/08, I helped my little brother change out hi kitchen floor. We replaced old wood with new. He is putting the tile on this week.
Talk about me feeling out of shape. I didn’t realize before hand that the floor would beat me like it did. I actually wore out. I haven’t been physically beat like that in a while.
That work was a part of a great day. I had a great time working and hanging out with my little brother. We talked about an array of subjects and (not that we aren’t close) I felt really close to him on that day. I had an excellent day with him. Plus not to mention, we were treating to the Hanna Montana “Say What” marathon on Disney channel (it played in the back ground). Plus it was his birthday.
My day was capped off when my wife and I went to see Ricky Graham's Scrooge in Rouge. This was a pretty comical play. You can guess by the title what it is about. If you don’t know about Ricky Graham, you can check out his website. (Google Ricky Graham - you get a bunch but you can easily find his web page)
Also you can see if he was included in Wade’s Dinner piece. Scroll down and check it out - dated 11/15/08.
The night was capped off with a late night sandwich at IHOP. The sandwich did not look like the picture. In the future I will stick to the IHOP breakfast, no matter what the time is.

O.J. Simpson – no comment.

The economy – no comment times 2. IT goes without saying that it is bad. Everyday I am waiting for the next tree to fall.

Glen "Big Baby" Davis. I still haven't been able to look at the video on youtube, but I have to defend the former LSU Tiger. I am sure Kevin Garnett was wrong. He lambasted Davis then turned around and played like crud himself (probably only for a few minutes).

The Illinois Governor. - What can you say?

"Pie" de Manzana WOW

“Pie” de Manzana WOW

12/2/08

Every day – at least 99.999999% of the time, we – me and the 2 wonderful people I work with – eat at our desk. We eat with one hand whacking at a keyboard and one holding the phone to our ear. Sometime we get really talented and have 2 or 3 conversations at the same time.
Well today, I am taking a stand (hoy tomo un soporte). As I am eating my mouth-watering (articule regar) lima beans and rice, I will do no work.
I will let the phone ring.
I will watch drivers out of the corner of my eye try to get my attention and play like I don’t see them.
Today I am taking a stand and writing a BLOG. Or BLOG O in Spanish.
So here it is…

Have you noticed lately that almost everything you read (ads, products, etc) are also written in Spanish or have Spanish verbiage written on the label?
This actually does not bother me. I think it is alluring. Plus it helps our Spanish speaking brothers and sisters get along in our country.
Actually my views on our melting pot are not that interesting or controversial or anything like that.
I don’t have a problem with a person working their but off – even if they can’t speak our language. To be honest, a lot of people in our country should look at some of these hard workers and model them.
Now on to what this is about.

My last name is Cortez.
Do you know how many times get a call with a Spanish speaking person on the other end?
People in my own company asked me yesterday (on an email) if I spoke Spanish. The reason: A Mexican customer and out own company’s Laredo TX terminal pretty much speak Spanish top each other (even on emails). They usually copy “American” people on them and they do type in English. For a few days I was getting copied in on these e mails between the two parties that were in Spanish. Every word. Then I see a reply asking me if I spoke Spanish. Of course I can never give a one word answer but in a round about way I said no.
Then the guy responds in English “No wonder you never answered the question.”
Do you know it took a few more emails back and forth to actually get the question? I thought about replying in French or Russian, but I can’t speak those either.
Interesting.

So in honor of my Spanish speaking friends and cousins from Progresso I bring you a current Winn Dixie’s “Have a Better Holiday Dinner” or “disfruta de una major cena para’ las fiestas.”
(Thanks to my co-worker Lariesha)
Lariesha printed it because we are thinking about having food for our office prior to Christmas.
So we are reading this thing and I must say I know how to say HAM (jamon’) and dinner (cena). I am getting a kick out of it, especially the title of this blog. WOW APPLE PIE.
Here is a little rundown: cena de Pechuga de Pavo Asada; 3.5 lbs pechuga de pavo cocida; 2 lb de acompanantes Praters; 16 oz de salsa de menudos Praters; 16 pannecillos…..only $44.99. WOW
Wasn’t Menudo a Latin young dude singing group? From what I can gather, menudos means giblet.
Live at the Monterey Convention and Visitor’s Center…The Giblets!!!!!!!!
“Pie” de Batato o Calabaza….$5.99.
Galletita con Mensaje……..$9.99.
One final thought on our new traveler’s companion (my Winn Dixie Sale paper) to Mexico…
All this will be a great help while in Progresso in January.
Let one of the locals stop me this time, they will think I just walked out of an ELGROCERYO STOREO.
One last thought: Lo casero es major en el “Deli’ de Winn-Dixie.

ASLEEP AT THE WHEEL

Feb. 07


Asleep at the Wheel


As I speed down a long, dusty, deserted highway, I slam the brakes many times.
The brakes don’t work.
I see black and emptiness to the right and left.
In the rearview mirror, I see the blood red sky fast approaching.
In front of me I see gray.
The brakes don’t work.
I cry.
I shout.
My pulse races but my heart does not beat.
Jealousy
Rage
Lust
Greed
Pride
Arrogance
Indulgence
Gossip
Murder
Slander
Bigotry
Hypocrisy
Debauchery
The view opens up in front of me.
I don’t stop.
Thoughts of jumping enter my mind.
I grab the seat belt.
The seat belt does not give.
I can’t escape.
I cry.
I scream.
I beg.
My body shakes.
My muscles swell.
My fists pound the window until they are cut and bleeding.
The glass does not break.
It is all for naught.
My body shakes.
My body sweats.
My brakes don’t work.
I see the cliff.
I am heading for destruction.
I see myself burning in the wreckage, burning in hell.
I cry to God.
I am sorry.
I want to wake up, but I am not asleep.
I want to stop.
Everything is black except the red coming up from the ravine.
I cry.
I scream.
My brakes don’t work.
My calf is numb from stomping on the brakes.
I jerk the steering wheel.
It doesn’t move.
I see the cliff.
I am almost there.
My eyes open.
My bed is soaked with sweat.
I see the morning light.
Thank you God.
Thank you Lord.
Forgive me.
Love me.
I start my day.
I start my week.
I say my prayers.
My brakes don’t work.

Marbury man

Stephon Marbury – a real class act!

November 26, 2008

In Milwaukee, Wisconsin on Friday, 11/21/08, the out manned and out numbered New York Knicks lost to the Bucks. The Knicks, due to trades earlier in the day, arrived for the game with the NBA minimum of 8 players.
Stephon Marbury should be cut and sent packing. Why? He refused to play. His reasoning for it doesn’t float with me. He said “ The only thing I’m at liberty to say is that I was told that they were moving forward, and I’m not the person who chooses who plays or doesn’t.” Even though the Knicks told Marbury of the direction they wanted to go in at the beginning of the season, he could have been a better man and played in the game against the Bucks. Show all of those young kids who idolize you what it is to be a real man Stephon.
He was inactive for Saturday’s win against Washington. And I am sure he was inactive for last nights Cavs game.
Another over paid prima donna.

Black Dots and a Snake

The Black Dots Beat Me – but not without a fight

11-19-08

A little while before Hurricane Gustav, we noticed these little black dots all over our cars, driveway, walkway and house. We had no clue (and still don’t) what they were. So before we evacuated for Gustav, I washed the Ford (evacuating is hard enough – at least we went in a clean car). It took 3 hours. Those black dots were hard on me. The dodge was covered as well, but that thing stays dirty (where I work) so you could hardly see the black dots. A couple of weeks after Gustav, they re appeared on the Ford. I scratched them and they were red underneath.
They were not sticky.
Weird.
They were washed off of the car again but they remained everywhere else.
A couple of days it was time to pressure wash the house. I did it and knowing the black dots were on the house didn’t bother me. But when the house was washed, I could really see the dots. So I proceeded to hold the pressure washer on each dot. It got them off, but I couldn’t do it for all of them so….They beat me, but the house looks great!








The Mystery of the Windshield Snake

11-19-08

Another marvel of nature.
A little while back we left for work. On the car’s windshield was a weird swirly line with several marks angling from the line.
It resembled the bottom of a snake.
We had no clue what it could be. A couple of mornings later, the same type of mark was on the truck’s windshield. Time passed and we didn’t see the marks. Then, the other day there was a wasp drinking (I guess) the dew off of the car’s windshield.
And guess what – the mystery of the windshield snake was revealed.

Muddy Waters

Muddy Waters

Nov. 2007



Life seems muddy.
Why try to get unpolluted just to get polluted again. Then you try to get unpolluted again and again.
The viscous cycle of it all is exhausting.
It tires you and wears you down.
Repeated over and over and over and over and over and over again.
You battle the day, all day.
You lose your mind regardless of the battles outcome.
You retreat.
Sometimes you retreat to safety.
Sometimes you retreat to more chaos.
Sometimes you retreat to more battles.
Every battle, every fight, every stress can be bowed and twisted however you or the faction choose.
You can’t choose your brawls, but your mind (which is the bona fide regulator) does choose your struggles.
Your mind decides on your outcome, your perception and your opinion.
Your body pays the price.
You see muddy waters.
You see clear skies.
You see it all in a rainbow of contemplations, considerations, reflections, concepts, inspirations, theory’s, notions and philosophies.

Five People I Would Like To Have Dinner With

5 PEOPLE I WOULD LIKE TO HAVE DINNER WITH

Oct. – Nov. 2008


I am sure you have seen these blogs, articles, emails, etc. I actually have been thinking about this as well. In passing, I heard something on one of the National News Shows about it, but I didn’t catch the details. If you Google the subject, you get many hits.
So, here is my list and reasons (if they may make sense) why:
Before I get to the list. Let me narrow the possible choices down. My list includes people who 1-are alive; 2- people I don’t know personally. Unfortunately, these guidelines almost cause the list consist of “famous” people (my list is not intended that way….but).
So here is my list and reasons:

Before I get to the “5”, I will list some “Honorable Mentions” (so to speak).
When I started thinking about this, many people came to my mind. A lot more people came to mind than the number that is listed below. I couldn’t list them all so here are the “Honorable Mentions”.
Note: there are some intriguing people on this list, picking the “5” was difficult.

LUNCH

Queen Latifah – Actress, Singer, etc. she was actually on my short list for dinner. Something about her presence moves me. I think she would be a great Dinner guest.

Michael Stipe – lead singer for R.E.M. his surreal lyrics are attractive. I don’t necessarily agree with all of his views but they would be fun to discuss.

Dave Grohl – in my mind one of the most talented musicians – period. Former drummer for Nirvana and front man for the Foo Fighters. On the first Foo Fighters album – he played all of the instruments and recorded the whole thing himself.

Bob Mould – was Guitarist, vocalist and songwriter for one of my favorite bands, Husker Du. I enjoy his website and his blogs. If he ever played close to New Orleans, I would be there. He appeals to me, not just his music but his thoughts, etc.

John McCain – I had to laugh. He was quoted as saying that he can now rest at night. He has been one of America’s best.

Robert Duvall – by far one of my favorite actors. Bobby. I love his movies and think that he would fun to talk to.

Denzel Washington – like Duvall, one of my favorite actors. I would like to talk about some of the “real life” roles he has taken in the past and his thoughts on the real life people he portrayed.

Morgan Freeman – Again, he is one of the best actors of all time. He is from Mississippi which makes him a neighbor. His knowledge of the past and thoughts of the present and future would be quite fascinating to listen to.

Natalie Merchant – lead singer of the 10,000 Maniacs. Her lyrics and views are significant. Her singing voice is peaceful. She is one of the best female voices (in song and causes) ever.

Kyra Sedgwick – she is just a great actress. Plus she lives in Manhattan.

Will Smith – “In west Philadelphia…” Will Smith is just good! His humor and his serious side would make for a great visit.

Tommy Lasorda – Former manager of MY Los Angeles Dodgers. I actually told him hello at a Dodgers Spring training awhile back. The rest speaks for itself.

Joe Torre – Current manager of MY Los Angeles Dodgers. He is a true winner. Plus he used to live (and probably still has a house) in Manhattan. I would love to pick his and Lasorda’s brain about baseball.

Orel Hershiser – the “Bulldog”. He was one of the best Dodger pitchers ever. I respect him and think highly of him from the baseball standpoint.

Steve Sax – one of my favorite all time Dodger players. He played 2B in the early 80’s. Former Rookie of the Year.

Joel C. Rosenberg – a terrific author. He is one of my favorites. His books are thought provoking even though most of them are fiction. His web site is excellent. And he is a Christian author.

Sandy Koufax – The Best Major League Pitcher….EVER. His record speaks for itself. He still deals with the Dodgers, but he is a very private person. I would like to just sit and chit chat. If I had a dog, its name would be KOUFAX.

Nicholas Cage – Like Duvall, Smith, Washington, etc. He is one of the best actors around. I haven’t seen a Cage movie I did not like.

Joe Paterno – No disrespect to Paul “Bear” Bryant, but Mr. Paterno has to be the greatest College Football coach of all time. He just keeps going………Imagine the conversations you could have with him.

Eric Clayton – Lead Singer of the Christian Gothic Rock band, Saviour Machine. The band’s lyrics are enormous. Their Legend series is awesome. I would pry and ask him when or if the Legend series will ever be completed.

Henry Ross Perot – I just like this guy. Plus I think his financial views could actually help the U.S. through our current crisis.

All of the above listed would be tremendous to have dinner with, but I had to pick 5. Below is my “5”


Ted Dekker – Without a doubt, my favorite author. I have read all but 2 of Ted’s books (and I will be getting to them soon). Two of his books have been turned into movies. In my opinion, all of his books would make a great movie. Ted is a Christian author whose mind is staggering. The stories that come from his pages seize me and don’t let me go. Many of his books and stories intertwine and that blows me away. One of his sayings is to “Dive Deep.” A conversation with him would be deep, but oh so entertaining and thought provoking.

Mike Ness – I like all kinds of music. I like many bands. If you made me choose my favorite band, it would be Social Distortion. Mike Ness started Social Distortion in 1978. I remember watching the Documentary Another State of Mind in the early 80’s. I saw that and thought that this band, Social Distortion would be more than just a young Punk band. And they were. They evolved into something fantastic. Much of this was due to Ness and co-founder Dennis Danell (he passed in 2000). Ness has battled drug addiction and other issues (he is the only original member still with the band) and much of his life has come out in his lyrics. Ness formed Time Bomb records as well as Black Kat Kustoms (he love old cars). He recorded two solo albums in 1999 as well. I think talking to him about life’s experiences and struggles would make for a stimulating dinner. My little brother and I actually met Mike Ness. We went to one of his solo shows in New Orleans and shook his hand in front of his tour bus. He is just a cool dude.

Bobby Flay – This guy can cook. I love his style and combinations in cooking. My wife and I ate at Mesa Grill in Manhattan. Was he there? Who knows, but one thing for sure, the influence he has on that menu is marvelous. I had to include a Chef on this list, but beyond Bobby Flay’s cooking, his business sense and personality (at least what we see on TV) make him worthy of this choice. He has hosted several Food TV programs and owns 6 restaurants. Plus if he is invited to dinner, he can cook (and give some pointers).

Vaclav Havel – “The real test of a man is not when he plays the role that he wants for himself, but when he plays the role destiny has for him.” This quote from Havel is one of my favorites. He is a Czech playwright, writer and politician. He was the tenth (and last) President of Czechoslovakia (from 1989 to 1992) and the first President of the Czech Republic (1993 – 2003). He wrote 20 plus plays and many non-fiction works. He received much recognition for his work and has received many honors. He led the Czech Republic to a multi-party democracy. He is still very influential today (in the Czech Republic and abroad).

Ricky Graham – New Orleans’ own. Ricky is a Home grown actor who is New Orleans through and though. My wife and I first saw him in The Mystery of Irma Vep. After that, we sought out everything that he either performed in or directed. He is side-splitting funny. One of his plays, The Black and White Blues was picked up and performed Off-Broadway. He has traveled all over performing, but New Orleans is his home. It would be a comical dinner with Ricky Graham there.

So this is my list.

Hey, who knows, tomorrow my “5” might change.

CHRYSOSTOM

Chrysostom

11/12/08

“So destructive a passion is avarice that to grow rich without injustice is impossible.” – John Chrysostom

Chrysostom was not his family name. It was a nickname meaning “Golden-Mouthed.” He was a very moving speaker.
He was born in 349 and died in 407. He was kidnapped as a child and elevated to Bishop of Constantinople (capital of the Eastern Roman Empire). He was elevated to Bishop against his will.
All things happen for a reason. Upon being named Bishop, he immediately began reforming the church.
You have to love him. He refused all of the “perks” that came along with being a Bishop. He tossed out the expensive art work and wardrobe of those before him. He even gave money to the poor after selling gold communion cups. He saw the Church in the correct way at that time. He saw it not as a power or political structure but as “the right agent for social change.”
He often taught that it was not enough to worship at the church alter. The genuine alters our bodies that were given to us by God.
Among saints, John Chrysostom is remembered as a great preacher. He preached that “as we serve one another – especially the poor – we grow to be like Christ.”
He was exiled by the Empress Eudoxia after he rebuked her for her public exhibit of vanity. He passed away as a homeless, forgotten prisoner.
Until one day, a former student of St. John, Saint Proclus, Patriarch of Constantinople preached a message glorifying St. John. He said “O John! Thy life was filled with difficulties, but thy death was glorious, thy grave is blessed and reward abundant through the grace and mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ. O graced one, having conquered the bounds of time and place! Love hath conquered space, unforgetting memory hath annihilated the limits, and place doth not hinder the miracles of the saint.”
Those who heard that sermon talked Proclus into getting with the emperor, so that the relics of St. John be transferred to Constantinople. And they were. The emperor sent a message that was read at the grave of St. John then they took his relics to Constantinople. They opened the coffin and his body was their, free of decay.
I won’t go on but please read upon on John Chrysostom. You will be happy that you did.

Today...

Nov. 11, 2008

What am I doing today (or recently).

I am reading: The Darkest Evening of the Year - Dean Koontz. First time reading a Koontz novel.
I just finished Sinner by Dekker.

looking forward to: 2 future Ted Dekker novels in 2009.

Movies: We recently saw August - to quote those two guys on In Living Colour "Hated It".

Young at Heart - must see documentary. check out the link. http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1047007/

http://www.youngatheartchorus.com/

Dancing With the Stars - my inner dancer comes out.

Looking Forward to : Lost - the new season - coming in Jan. 09. Can't wait.

What I am: Tired- driver's truck wouldn't start - up at 0220 - watched the clock until almost 4.

Message to Jarret Lee: When LSU signed you I said that you would be a BIG part in a LSU National Championship. I still believe that.

I thought LSU would lose 3 games this year, go to a decent bowl game, win it, end up in the top 12.

What am I listening to: Tourniquet: Crawl to China and Coldplay on youtube.

Fantasy Football update: I started 4 and 0......haven't won a game since............enough said.

What I am working on for future blogs:
"Wade's 100"
John Chrysoston
Some poems from the archive.

The LAST Political Blog of 2008

The Last Political Blog of 2008
Maybe

11/6/08

The Presidential Race: I didn’t vote for Barack Obama, but he is our President and I will support him. We have no choice. I, in the past, have prayed for our leaders in all areas and will continue to do so. I hope some of the ideas Obama has will go through. I wanted John McCain to win because when he ran against George W. Bush 8 years ago in the Republican primary; I knew he would be our next President. His ideas and values were second to none. I had very high hopes for our country. Then he lost to Bush and the rest (I guess) is history. I don’t think George W. Bush was our worst President ever, but after 8 years, I would have to say that he wasn’t even close to the top. Let me just put it this way:
He is not his dad. His dad is not Reagan. Ronald Reagan was one of the best. I will always like Jimmy Carter. Ironic. I will give George W. Bush a little credit here: based on my lifetime and what I read in the history books, W. is probably in the bottom half.
How much power does a U.S. President really have?

So Barrack Obama – God Speed.

Everyone, Barrack Obama won. Those idiotic emails about race, etc. Give it a rest. Like him or not, no one should be the but of the types of e mails that I have seen (AND DELETED ABOUT 1 SECOND AFTER LOOKING – in other words once opened those e mails don’t last very long.

Also the Palin jokes and McCain jokes on late night TV. Guys, use you talent for something else. IT AINT FUNNY!

Wade – move on………

Sarah Palin in 2012? I will get back to you in 2011.

Bobby Jindal (current Louisiana Governor) in 2012? I do know, based on reports that he plans on running for Governor again in 2011. But I will tell you this, if he runs, he has my vote!!!!!!!!

And finally….Kudos for California, Florida and Arizona!!!!!!!
As you probably know, the state of California voted to BAN Same Sex marriage.
Amendments to ban gay marriage were also approved in Florida and Arizona.
Also, voters in Arkansas approved a measure banning unmarried couples from serving as adoptive or foster parents.

Until the next Hot Political time …..

The Bulldog of Bergen and The Hurricane

Tuesday, November 4, 2008

The Bulldog of Bergen and The Hurricane





The Bulldog of Bergen and The Hurricane11-4-08Cinderella Man was one of the nicknames (along with Bulldog of Bergen) that were given to James J. Braddock. You’ve probably heard of the movie Cinderella Man (starring Russell Crowe, Renee’ Zellweger, and Paul Giamatti – and directed by Ron Howard). This was yet another movie that sparked my interest and made me dig to get more information. I love movies like this.Three of my favorite sports movies are about boxing (and boxing is one of my least favorite sports). Cinderella Man, Resurrecting The Champ (past blog – see Archives), and The Hurricane are three tremendous movies. They are “Wade Must See flicks.” The true stories behind these movies are what draw them to me. I think what “life-lessons” I saw in them just made me fall in love with them. I actually would call them “Life” movies instead of Sports movies.Cinderella Man’s story was an inspiring drama about never giving up (and much more). There are so many movies about never giving up, but something about this one grabbed me. What makes it better is the movie is pretty true to the real life story of the boxer known as Cinderella Man (the account of foe, Max Baer is probably harsher than Baer really was, but much of the movie is right on target with the true story).In the summer of 1935 James Walter Braddock won the Heavyweight Championship of the World as a huge underdog. He beat a younger Max Baer in a unanimous decision. This only capped off an incredible up and down career (after the Baer victory, Braddock lost his title to up and coming Joe Louis). He was born in Hell’s Kitchen in New York City and turned pro at the age of 21. In three years he had a 34-5-7 record with 21 knockouts.His fast rise in the ranks would be followed by a huge slump. He would only win 11 of his next 33 fights.I don’t want to give away too much of the story (in case you watch the movie or read about the Man), but Braddock suffers through injuries and the Great Depression. He gave up boxing during this time to work as a longshoreman. My words would not do Mr. Braddock’s story justice so I encourage you to read up on this remarkable human being. Here some links for that purpose: http://resources.jamesjbraddock.com/

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/James_J._Braddock

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RINFZ_8BhIw - Braddock vs Baer

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0352248/ To read about movie on IMDB.com

http://www.boxrec.com/list_bouts.php?human_id=012072&cat=boxer Braddock's fights

The Hurricane came out in the Box Office in 1999. Another overwhelming boxing movie about life more than anything. If you haven’t heard this story or seen the movie, please put it on your Netflix cue and move it to the top (or go rent it).Rubin “Hurricane” Carter was a middleweight boxer in the early 60’s who was imprisoned for three murders in New Jersey in 1966. Both the convictions and release were controversial. He was in jail for almost 20 years prior to his release. Carter’s boxing career was definitely overshadowed by the Patterson, NJ murders. His professional record was 27-12-1 (1 draw) with 8 knockouts and 11 TKOs.Rubin Carter’s cause was picked up by many people including Bob Dylan (who wrote the song “Hurricane” http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EotM7FH8uQg and the movie Renaldo and Clara http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Renaldo_and_Clara), and Muhammad Ali.

He wrote the book, The Sixteenth Round: From Number 1 Contender to #45472 http://www.amazon.com/Sixteenth-Round-Number-Contender-45472/dp/0140149295.

This book was eventually read by a young man named Lesra when he was learning to read at the age of 16. Lesra was so engrossed in and moved by Carter’s story, he and his Canadian caregivers picked up the cause and were a huge reason for Carter eventually being release from prison, for good. Also to come out of this was another stirring book, Lazarus and the Hurricane: The Freeing of Rubin “Hurricane” Carter (written by Sam Chaiton and Terry Swinton). http://www.amazon.com/Lazarus-Hurricane-Freeing-Rubin-Carter/dp/0312253974

Again, my words will not do this story justice so please watch the movie and read all you can on this story.

Today and Tomorrow

Today is the Day!!!!!
And Tomorrow is the day that we do not have to endure those daft political commercials.
Hallelujah!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!


Hopefully everyone who is registered has or will exercise their right to Vote.

Not they will read this Blog, but whoever wins, Congrats! And God Speed!!!!!!!


11/4/08

What are you up to H. Ross?

In the spirit of this election being almost over..........................
(I actually had a whole Blog written out on the subject but lost it somehow....so this is what you get....sorry
Check this piece out on "Stars of Elections Past." The story from Yahoo! News features my all time Favorite Politician. Ross Perot (i have never voted for him - I wonder why?).
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ynews/20081030/pl_ynews/ynews_pl115_1

Also check out this Ross Perot website: Perot Charts - Charting Government Fiscal Irresponsibility.
http://perotcharts.com/

You gotta' Love Ross Perot.

Here's to "Hoping your candidate wins!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"

“I’m voting for Obama. You know why?”

“I’m voting for Obama. You know why?”

10/28/08

First, notice the title of this blog is in quotes. Therefore, I didn’t say it.
A couple of weeks ago I was talking to my neighbor’s son. I think the son is about 30 years old. He asked who I was voting for (for President) I told him John McCain. He asked why. I told him because when John ran in the Republican primary about 8 years ago (when G.W.B. won his first term) I voted for him. He had thoughts and ideas that I liked. I went on to say that if given the chance, I still believe in John McCain’s thoughts and ideas. I believe he is the best man for the job.
So I asked the loaded question. “Why are you voting for Barrack Obama?”
Not expecting the brainless answer that I got, I was not so shocked by it. He said “I hope he wins so he can get assassinated.”
I asked: “are you serious?”
He said no. So I asked him why he would even say something that sounded so unintelligent.
The conversation quickly turned to other subjects.
I didn’t think about that conversation until I heard on the news about a group (skinheads) who was arrested for planning to kill Obama.
You can read about it at: http://elections.foxnews.com/2008/10/27/government-foils-skinhead-plot-assassinate-obama/

So my thought: What in the World do some people think?
My question: Have you ever heard the song “Take the Skinheads Bowling” by Camper van Beethoven? http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UDB9oCgVHGw

So yes for the record, I am voting for John McCain, but if he wins, I hope nothing happens to him.

Climbing Rose OR Thoughts About Life

Climbing Rose OR Thoughts About Life

Life is fragile.
Life is strong.
The trust we possess can be powerful.
Yet, our skepticism sometimes surfaces and competes with that trust.
Some say time flies while others say time stands still.
End of eras approach.
New beginnings are born.
Old habits die.
New ones form.
Life is comparable to many things.
Its like a steam engine speeding down the rails.
Will it’s steam ever run dry?
Will it make the climb up and over the crest?
Life is like the majestic balloon floating in the air.
Wind blown left.
Wind blown right.
Up.
Down.
Then it fades from sight.
Life is like a baby sleeping quietly in it’s crib.
Then it is awake, crying in the night.
Winston Groom wrote that “Life is like a bunch of chocolates.”
On the surface it is chocolate, but it is what’s inside where the mystery lies.
Life, to me, is like the climbing rose.
The path it takes is a sporadic one.
Yet, if the gardener directs that path, the plant follows the lead.
It follows the directed path for a time.
Then, before too much time passes, the rose’s path is sporadic once more.
The gardener grooms the plant. The plant that seems independent.
The gardener directs it in another direction.
This cycle goes on and on as the plant matures.
It’s path is sporadic then directed.
The rose depends on its grower.
The gardener lets it venture out, but always keeps a watchful eye.
Like our human lives the plant produces flowers.
It’s life’s accomplishments.
But before the flowers there are thorns.
The gardener looks past those thorns as he prunes.
Sometimes the thorns hurt the gardener and he bleeds.
He still loves the plant because he knows it will have a beautiful outcome.
Even after the flowers bloom, there are thorns.
But those thorns are overcome.
They are looked past.
The plant experiences hurt.
It experiences death.
It is watched over.
Sometimes we fear what is around the corner when we don’t know what IT is.
We are afraid to take that peak.
We are comfortable with the known and the familiar as we live our lives.
We have a sometimes hidden desire to want the unknown to remain that way.
Often that desire is hidden from ourselves.
We weren’t born knowing everything and sometimes we fear what we do not know.
We struggle with the uncovering of facts, of truths, of honesty, of love.
Like some, but unlike others, the climbing rose ventures out to the unknown.
It doesn’t know what is around the corner or what the future holds.
It slowly creeps along, finding it’s way and if it ventures out too far, or gets into trouble, the gardener directs it, helps it.
We seem apprehensive of the path less traveled.
It makes us feel uneasy.
But like Frost wrote, taking that path can make a difference.
If we have faith and trust in our gardener, we can confidently take the overgrown, crooked, dusty path.
We can look around the corner with self assurance.
And through life’s twists, turns and changes, our lives will bloom like the climbing rose.

W.Cortez
5/10/08
Revised 5/23/08

Resurrecting Interest in the Past

Resurrecting Interest in the Past
10/21/08
Resurrecting The Champ stirs and results in research and interest


This past weekend, one of my goals was to clean my desk off in our home office. I didn’t get too far (due to many factors) when I came across a bunch of papers clipped together.
I looked down at it, read for about five minutes and then started jotting notes on sticky tabs.
The pack of papers was RESURRECTING THE CHAMP: The original Times story – May 4, 1997.
We enjoy movies of all sorts, but really enjoy movies that cause you to put aside other things to take the time to dig and research and read more about the true stories or the facts that led to the cinematic presentation. Even if the movie is fiction, chances are, if it is good, there are some interested items that inspired it. A few months ago we watched one of those movies on DVD. In a future blog, I will list and talk about some of these flicks.
RESURRECTING THE CHAMP.
The movie stars Samuel L. Jackson and Josh Hartnett (who is steadily becoming one of my favorite actors). Basically it is about and up-and-coming sports reporter (played by Hartnett) who be-friends a homeless man (Jackson). He soon finds out that this man is a boxing legend who many believed to be dead. In IMDB.com’s plot synopsis it says “What begins as an opportunity to resurrect Champ’s story and escape the shadow of his father’s success becomes a personal journey as the ambitious reporter reexamines his own life and his relationship with his family.”
This movie was wonderful from the start. I liked it a lot, but it is what this movie caused inside of me that made it one of my favorites. It caused me to dig and take interest in the True Story. It almost forced me to dig deep into it. Like many Hollywood movies, RESURRECTING THE CHAMP, in my opinion, was loosely based on the truth. I learned the differences (which I have no problem with in this case) through the research.
The “real life” event was experienced by Los Angeles based-reporter J.R. Moehringer who published an article that “retraced” the life of heavyweight boxer Bob Satterfield. I won’t talk about it and ruin any of it.
Really, you need to watch the movie and then read the 1997 original story. To read RESURRECTING THE CHAMP: The original Times story – May 4, 1997, go to http://www.latimes.com/news/columnists/la-me-champ,1,754330.story?coll=la-news-columns Whether you are a boxing fan or not, you will be pleased with this movie and the true story behind it.
For J.R. Moehringer's Memoirs go to http://www.tenderbar.com/

Hindsight is 50/50

Hindsight is 50/50
originally written Aug. 2008

Hindsight is 20-20. How many times have you heard that phrase?
How many times have you used it?
My question - Is hindsight truly 20-20?
What is hindsight?
According to www.m-w.com, hindsight is a noun that means: "perception of the nature of an event after it has happened."
We all know what 20-20 vision is.
I have 20/20 vision and not everything I choose or do is correct. Even correct decisions can lead to disaster.
A "correct" or "right" decision today can still have an impact later.
Positive or Negative.
"Time will tell."
Oops!
I do understand what "hindsight is 20-20" is supposed to mean. But I say HINDSIGHT IS 50/50!!!!!!!!!!!!
If I am driving and decide to go left, there is a 50-50 chance that I will have made the wrong choice. If I hear about an accident on the radio that happens to be in the normal path I drive, the I have another choice to make. If I choose another path there is still a 50/50 chance I hit more problems. The percentages are endless, but the bottom line is if I choose to turn right it will be either good or bad, right or wrong, etc. etc.
Life is ultimately a choice. If we choose right we will be OK.
What is right?
Other examples.
We can choose to smoke or not. We might get cancer regardless. Or we might not.
You can choose to spend money you shouldn't. You can play the lottery. You might win, you might not. This piece was originally "Hindsight is 50/50." Then the idea of a decision not mattering or not having any impact came to light. So I changed the title and thought process to "Hindsight is 33.3333333/33.3333333."
But now I feel that a decision will either end in a positive way or a negative way, right or wrong, good or bad, happiness or sorrow, life or death.
So when you look back on life and say "I should have done this or that and things would be different."
Maybe not!
Think about that.
If you would have made a different decision, there is no way to tell where that decision would have led you to. Even when you think you should have changed a choice or decision, there is no guarantee that the choice would have made things better. No guarantee that the choice would have been wrong.
Hindsight is 50/50.

it is over

it is over

Goings on...

Goings on………….10/13/08
10/14/08

I have many things in my archived mind to Blog about, but lately I have had a bit of Bloggers Block (so-to-speak). I can blame it on the Dodgers (I am BLUE this morning) and LSU, but…
Yesterday was anon-stop day at the office. The trucking world was running on all cylinders despite it behind a Holiday.
But in the middle of the day, I had to pause (albeit) for about 10 minutes, and the stuff (junk, crazy news stories, and some informative) I saw in that little lump of time was remarkable.
Here are some of the tidbits I picked out to “discuss.”

From Yahoo News (and every other news outfit): “Dow Jumps 936 as Government Pledge Bank Aid.” So Wall Street stormed back (if you ever get to see that Big Brass looking Bull, you will enjoy) from last week’s terrible losses. That was great news. Even though I don’t know much about the stock market and such, I do know we have lost about $8,000.00 in about 8 months. I know I am not the only one. I wasn’t looking at our Wachovia statements, but that little pull this past Sunday made my finger rip into the envelope. 5 seconds later I threw it in the file. I’m sure the Presidential Nominees will educate me on what all this means, so if I can make it through the Campaign ads and the debates and the Presidential Hopeful Prayer Breakfast at Wade’s house, I might learn more about the Government’s Pledge. They know it all and have all of the answers.

This one KILLS (for lack of a better word) me.
From SFGate.com: Class Surprises Lesbian Teacher on Wedding Day.WHAT? What class? The middle?
Basically, some First graders in San Francisco took a field trip to City Hall last Friday so they could toss rose petals on their teacher who was just married (to another woman). The 18 students were from Creative Arts Charter School. The mayor of S.F. officiated.
First – the kids don’t know any better BUT they also have minds that will soak up everything. One of the children’s parents came up with the idea. I wonder about that parent’s other views.
Second - ????? I am still scratching my head as to what they are thinking here.
Liz Jaroslow (the school’s interim director) said “It really is what we call a teachable moment.” I guess the teachable moment would be to teach them young? I’m just guessing.
Of course the trip didn’t go without opposition. Chip White, Press Secretary for the “Yes on 8” (to outlaw gay marriages) campaign said “It’s just utterly unreasonable that a public school field trip would be to a same-sex wedding. This is overt indoctrination of children who are too young to have an understanding of its purpose.”
According to White, unless Prop. 8 passes on Nov. 4, children will learn about same-sex marriage in school. I wonder if the Bible study will be down the hall.
Parents noted that although controversial, most didn’t see a big deal about it. Two children were held out of the field trip by their parents. This is my blog so I say HOORAY for those parents.
Parent Marc Lipsett said “How many days in school are they going to remember? This is a day they’ll definitely remember.” And that is a problem.
For those first graders, in this case 1+1 does not equal 2.

I figured out how to win the Lottery…

From Foxnews.com: Boyfriend of Kansas Woman Stuck to Toilet Wins Lottery for Second Time This Year If you recall, this was the lady who was stuck to a toilet seat for 2 years. Google “woman stuck to toilet seat” and you will get all of the info you need. Her boyfriend won the lottery twice this year. His latest winning ticket was purchased in Great Bend, KS. I actually stayed in that town for a week a few years back. Nice town. I believe the biggest Wal Mart in the state of Kansas is in Great Bend.
The way I see it: I will gather all of the books I either want to read and/or re read. I will buy an old Atari game in a garage sale. I will stock up on air freshener. I will quit my job. I will have my wife play the lottery.

From Yahoo Mail: Go to HUDforeclosed.com for “INCREDIBLE DISCOUNTS ON REAL ESTATE.” I’m not sure, but if you are in the market for a house, this might be a good web page to (at least) look at.

And Finally…
From TheLeafChronicle.com out of Clarksville, TN.
Man picks up ‘dead’ Fox, Wrecks after I t RevivesGuess what the man’s name was?
Tommy Fox

Dodgers are KILLING ME!!!!!

Dodgers just lost to the Phillies. 2 in a row in the NLCS.................i will cry myself to sleep tonight. Goodnight.

today 10/9/08

I got this idea from other Blogs I have read.

I am reading : Sinner by Ted Dekker
I also flip through and let my eyes wonder on The Problem of Pain by C.S. Lewis and The Mystery of Irma Vep (and other plays) by Charles Ludlam.
Next novel I am slated to read: The Last Days by Joel C. Rosenburg.

I am anxious about: The Dodgers vs. Phillies - National League Championships - starts tonight. also LSU vs. Florida - this Saturday. (I can't help it.)

I am happy about: Too much to count.

I am contemplating- spending $$$ to get my truck fixed or trade it in for a new car.

I am wondering why: my financial "guy" called every 2 or 3 weeks to talk about things but I have to learn he no longer works for Wachovia when I call with a question.

Recent Movies watched: Georgia Rule - tempted to shut it off midway through but kept it on. It ended up being an OK flick.

I am "tripping out" about: the dream I had last night.

I am working on: (A)2 short stories (1 about the dream I had last night and the other about a man named Allister whose wife is killed and he seeks revenge).
(B) Wade's top 100 tunes of all time.
(c) The Wayne Miller Story
(d) too many other things to count

I am sad about: having to come to this job everyday (but at the same time blessed to have a job - does that make sense?)

I am listening to: Flogging Molly's Within A Mile Of Home (in my truck's CD player)
on my phone: a mix of stuff - More Social Distortion than anything else.

that's it for now. There is so much out in this world to write about but my head is swelling, so this is what you get for today.

The $500.00 Flower Pot

THE $500.00 FLOWER POT
A “RUN IN” at the USCG Training Site

10-6-08

Southern New Jersey was beautiful on October 3, 2008. Except for about 15 minutes, that day was perfect.
My wife and I, along with my step-son’s fiancé flew to Philadelphia and then drove to Atlantic City where our hotel was.
Things happen for a reason. The trip was planned so that we could attend my step-son’s United States Coast Guard training graduation in Cape May, NJ.
We originally had a hotel in Wildwoods, NJ. Expedia.com contacted us and said that the hotel was closing for the season and they booked us in their sister hotel (also in Wildwoods). Just for the heck of it, I called that hotel (the day before we flew out). We were not on the rolls and they were closing for the season as well. Before the sweat bead rolling down my forehead could hit the sheet of paper in front of me, my fingers were dialing Expedia.
Long story short – we ended up in Atlantic City, NJ. This was an awesome thing. It was about halfway between the airport and the Coast Guard facility. Everything was open. Plus the hotel was great. Even if you don’t gamble (like us – I don’t even know how to play poker) this hotel is breathtaking. You do have to walk through the casino to get to your room, but once you are past it you are among 21 world class restaurants (one we ate at would not be considered world class – maybe gym class) and probably about 50 stores. It was cool.
To the graduation. The USCG should be highly praised for the way they planned and performed the graduation ceremony. Yes they practically have a graduation every Friday, but they really make you feel welcomed and comfortable. Also the Good Lord served up an enormously beautiful day. We were proud and elated that day. It was a touching ceremony. We felt blessed and privileged to not only be able to attend but to witness a fantastic step in a young Man’s journey of life.
Prior to the ceremony a flower pot hit our rental car. Actually it was my fault. We were parking (be directed by security) and they told me to back up and go another way. I looked in my mirrors and cut the wheel.
BAM!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I hit something.
I look back thinking I hit another vehicle. I didn’t see anything. I looked out the door and saw a short and fat cement/stone flower pot. I hit it hard because the thing moved almost 8 inches. Well, a big scratch and a fist sized dent and some broken plastic later, I had to cough up my $500.00 deductible when we returned the rental. Honestly, I was only aggravated and agitated for about 15 minutes. The maturity that took me 41 years to find kicked in and we had a terrific time after that.
And thank God, while preparing to type this blog my insurance company called and told me they were sending me the 500.00 because I have full coverage on rentals.
Yes, I smiled.
Another plus to this trip. We paid $3.12 per gallon for gas in Rio Grande, NJ and $3.05 per gallon in Deptford, NJ. I thought I would never say Horrah about gas process over 3 bucks, but when we pay $3.55 or so in South Louisiana, that $3.12 and $3.05 are fantastic prices.
That’s about it. I am off today but I have hay to bail and cows to milk so I got to’ go.

Upcoming posts:
I will periodically dig into my poetry archives and put some “stuff” on the blog.
I am working on short story about……..when it is finished I will post it (probably in steps). And of course I an still researching for the upcoming post on Wade’s TOP 100 songs of all time………………..

Christians "Honor" Ahmadinejad......what really? No!

“Religious Groups Condemn ‘Obscene’ Event…”
Oh! My Gosh…..

9/30/08

My wife’s co worker, knowing we are Mennonites, tossed an internet news article on her desk. She said, ‘you have to read this, you are a Mennonite.’ The headline from Foxnews.com http://www.foxnews.com/ read “Religious Groups Condemn ‘Obscene’ Event Honoring Ahmadinejad”.
My wife scanned the article and thought about it. Then she went to the World Wide Web and proceeded to pull up other pieces regarding the same issue.
We talked about the entire conversation with her co-worker and the research that followed.
What follows is quite interesting.
First an observation prior to the facts: People definitely pick out key words in articles and/or other media related pieces and categorically form opinions. People read half works and are troubled. Individuals see what they want to understand and verbalize their thoughts long before they should.
Let’s get to the substance of this piece.
And please, don’t form an opinion until you read through. Please read through.
I have written, prior to this, a little on Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad. Not all what was written is positive or negative. I do believe he is evil, but he has a heart and a mind. I believe the Prophet Ezekiel wrote accurate words as to what the upcoming actions of Iran will be. With that said, I believe all people have a heart; therefore all people have a chance (one day I may add my piece “Where The Heart Is” to this blog).
The Fox news article that was tossed on my wife’s desk stated that “an event organized by several religious groups to honor Iranian president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad in New York Thursday (the piece was dated Wed. 9/24/08) has drawn ire from the Catholic League and several Jewish organizations, UPI reported.”
“Catholic League President Bill Donahue called on supporters to attend a rally to disrupt the ‘obscene’ event.”
He went on to say that Ahmadinejad “is a menace to freedom-loving people the world over, and the sight of religious groups embracing him is nauseating.”
I agree, he is a menace. Where is the love from Mr. Donahue. Please read further. This is not over.
Fox news reported that the Christian groups behind the vent are the American Friends Service Committee, Mennonite Central Committee, Quaker United Nations Office, Religions for Peace (this should have given UPI and Fox the real idea of this meeting), and the World Council of Churches.
An initial rally to protest this was formed by Women International and the Jewish Action Alliance. Along with Donahue, Wendy Wright, President of Concerned Women for America, encouraged groups to rally against the event.
The New York Sun http://nysun.com/ reporter Benny Avni wrote that “Mr. Ahmadinejad, who has learned in recent years how to steal the show…” He is correct in that, Ahmadinejad does seem to “pop up” and be seen (and heard).
Like I said earlier, my wife went on the web and found some information out.
On the Mennonite Central Committee’s web site ,http://mcc.org/ there was some valuable information.
On September 23, 2008 their was a piece titled “MCC to Co-sponsor Peacemaking Dialogue.” Did they say “peacemaking dialogue”????
On September 26, 2008 (the day after this “dreaded event”) the MCC web site titled a piece “Religious and Political Leaders Hold Peacemaking Dialogue.” There’s that “P” word again.
Here is where those not to be mentioned are missing the point, missing the boat, missing the train, the plain or whatever. They are just missing.
This dialogue was scheduled not just with the Iranian President. There were political and religious leaders from all sorts of faiths who contributed. Christian, Jewish Muslim and other faiths all took part in the conference.
The theme of the dialogue (HOW COULD THE UPI AND FOX MISS THIS???????) was “Has not one God created us? The Significance to Religious Contributions to Peace.”
Watch out. M.A. may have brought a warhead in his lunch pail.
Let’s get a little serious. The New York Sun’s Benny Avni reported that top United Nations officials scrambled to figure out how to prevent Miguel d’Escoto Brockmann (Pres. Of the General Assembly) from eating with and honoring Ahmadinejad. Avni asked Mr. d’Escoto “if his ‘having dialogue’ with Mr. Ahmadinejad meant he was endorsing the Iranian leader’s call for the destruction of Israel, he told me: ‘I don’t want anyone to be wiped off the map, not even any individual, much less a state.’ Neither do the organizers of this religious event.”
William Vendley (Sec. General of Religions for Peace), along with leaders involved in the forums were in quest of “an opportunity for participants to express their deeply held concerns in a direct and face-to-face manner.”
The Bush administration wanted the event scrapped completely. I voted for Bush twice. Is he truly a religious President or are others speaking for him?
Arli Klassen, Mennonite Central Committee Executive Director, said “As Christians, we take Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount very seriously and say ‘Love your enemies and do good to those who persecute you.’” She continued: “Right now the U.S. and Iran are defining each other as enemies and so, as Christians, we are trying to promote dialogue, understanding and bridge-building, rather than leading to war.”
In the Sep. 23 web article MCC stated that they were facing public criticism for co sponsoring the meetings out of a false impression that they were honoring the Iranian President.
There were approximately 300 international religious and political figures who attended the dialogue.
Klassen lit an oil lamp during her welcoming talk. The lamp was a symbol of faith.
She said (Please – critics – listen to this carefully) “As a Christian, I believe that we are following Jesus Christ’s example and his teaching as we eat together and hold this dialogue despite our many differences.”
My ever observant wife pointed out Psalm 23:5. The first part of this scripture says “You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies.”
She continued by asking President Ahmadinejad: “We ask you to find a way within your own country to allow fro religious diversity, and to allow people to make their own choices as to which religion they will follow.”
Again, how can the critics criticize this?
Executive director of the Council on American-Islamic Relations, Nihad Awad said “Has not God created us? Yes – and he wants us to work together.”
President Emeritus of New York University, Dr. John Brademas said that “we believe that war is not the solution to the differences that divide peoples. Dialogue can make a real difference.
Robert J. Suderman, Mennonite Church Canada General Secretary said the participants of the dialogue should reach out to those who objected. Those included various Jewish, Catholic and Evangelical Christian groups. He said “What’s left is to build relationships with people on the other side of the street.”
Much of what you read so far were quotes from the various web pieces that were read. Some words – my personal feelings.
My other thoughts: Would I be writing this if I weren’t a member of the Mennonite Church? No one knows that answer. I would like to think I would.
Perhaps, critics should actually wait for an event to be completed before protesting or speaking out. I believe that if that would have happened, we might not have seen as many protesters.
Also, a rose is beautiful, but does it always smell good? A wolverine can rip you apart, but is it all bad?
Those critiquing can’t possible see the true thoughts of peace. What better way of promoting peace and having an exchange of ideas with those who are considered evil or mean or the enemy? Man wars were won at the “Peace Table”.
Perhaps, critics should actually wait for an event to be completed before protesting or speaking out. I believe that if that would have happened, we might not have seen as many protesters.
People read certain catch phrases and develop an opinion. They try to “throw” that opinion on others. People see things and snub the idea of looking at all sides. They refuse to investigate so that they can establish a proper opinion.
I hope you found this interesting and will dive into all of the information about this enormously important dialogue.
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College Football - A Wild Ride

You Gotta’ Love College Football
9/28/08

In the wacky world of sport, College Football holds it’s own in the realm of “expecting the unexpected”.
Just look back at the last few years and you should agree.
It is early in this year’s season and yes, another wild season is here!
We didn’t see the Michigan loss to Appalachian State scenario to start the season, but their were some upsets early. East Carolina gets the better of West Virginia, and then they barely beat Tulane. Now ECU lost 2 in a row.
Let’s take this weekend for example.
The rankings will look a lot different then they did last week. Personally I don’t care about rankings. Win and that speaks for itself.
Look at LSU last year. They were riding high then lost to Arkansas. Their National Title hope (to many – not me) was lost. A los here and loss there a win here and there by other teams and wham, LSU wins the SEC Title game and is vaulted to the BCS National Title game. Sorry Ohio State, but the rest is history.
This weekend Florida lost to Ole’ Miss. didn’t see that coming. Florida was number 4. Mississippi was not ranked.
Thursday USC lost to Oregon State. Wow. USC was number 1. OSU – not ranked.
Michigan (not ranked) beat Wisconsin (#9). Maryland beat 20th ranked Clemson. Fifteenth ranked Auburn barely beat Tennessee.
Alabama (number 8) manhandled Georgia (number 3). This, to me, actually was not a surprise. It is ok for LSU fans to dislike Nick Saban, but you better respect him. Look what he has done for Alabama.
Oklahoma, Texas and LSU took care of business. No surprise.
ESPN says Alabama might be Number 1. LSU, don’t get mad. Let somebody else wear the target while the season is early. IT might as well be Alabama.
No team is safe in college football. That has been proven over and over.
Let me put a little philosophy in this. Life is College Football. We fumble. We drive. We get penalized. We score. We get it right through the uprights. We miss wide right. We work hard. We bleed. We get injured. We heal. We win. We lose. We play another day.
So as we trod on to next week end, who knows where the College football road will take us. I do know it will be a madcap ride.

Lance Armstrong

Lance Armstrong – Hooray!
Greg Lemond – Give it a Rest!

9/27/08

This will be short and sweet.
Lance Armstrong retired from Professional Cycling in 2005 after winning a record seven Tour de France races in a row.
We all know about Armstrong’s heroics, whether it be closely followed or loosely read. We all know in the same regard his battle with Testicular cancer.
It is hard enough to win one Tour de France much less 7 in a row. Believe me; I tried (not really – except for maybe in my dreams).
Armstrong announced on September 9 this year that he would be making a return to the international cycling scene. He made that announcement official this past Wednesday. He is 37 years old.
Armstrong, who has also been constantly accused of doping, has always denied this and has always tested clean. Come on folks – give it a rest.
But to boost his credibility – in my eyes he does not have to – he says all of his doping tests will be open to the public. He will be working with Don Catlin, founder of the Anti-Doping Institute in Los Angeles. Catlin said: “Everything will be made public and everyone will be able to see the evolution of the results and see if there have been changes. What will happen? His samples will also be frozen for analysis in several years time if need be.”
Armstrong signed with the Astana team (which is run by Johan Bruyneel – his old sporting director). Young up and comer (and 2007 Tour de France winner) Alberto Contador may quit the team because of Armstrong’s presence. I can see his point but think it would be a mistake. Imaging what he can learn from Armstrong. Contador, I feel will join the elite group of multiple Tour winners. He is that good.
Also, Armstrong will take no salary, and no bonuses. He said: “Everything is being done as a type of donation.”
Another Hooray!
Greg Lemond, who I still respect and admire for his Tour de France victories and what he has done for American Cycling, give it a rest.
Lemond has criticized Lance Armstrong in the past. He said this week, “His return is not good news. It’s like a nightmare, that we have lived through all these years, returning.”
According to Yahoo! Sports, during Lance Armstrong’s Q and A session, Lemond “was almost stealing the show as he attempted to ask questions. However Lemond was continually cut off and talked over by Armstrong when he tried to speak.”
Maybe this was wrong for Armstrong to do. Maybe if Greg Lemond would not be a constant “thorn in Armstrong’s side” he wouldn’t have gotten cut off.
I am trying to figure out what Greg Lemond has against Lance Armstrong. So what if he wants to come out of retirement. Let him try.
I promise to research this further and look into Greg’s thoughts on Lance Armstrong.
In the meantime “LIVESTRONG!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!”