It is quite interesting to read the blogs of the Iraqi people as they write about their experience with the election on 30 January 2005. I feel the the new blogoshere will reshape the entire middle east, as more and more people are allowed to express their views and read those of others. It is an historic time. The Iraqis are brave people. God Bless America.
BBC NEWS | Middle East | Iraq election log: 31 January 2005
The New Iraq
So much for the argument that Arabs don't want democracy.
Monday, January 31, 2005
Electing to Leave The US
A reader’s guide to expatriating on November 3Originally from "Harper's Magazine", October 2004.
By Bryant Urstadt.
"So the wrong candidate has won, and you want to leave the country. Let us consider your options.
Renouncing your citizenship:Given how much the United States as a nation professes to value freedom, your freedom to opt out of the nation itself is surprisingly limited. The State Department does not record the annual number of Americans renouncing their citizenship—“renunciants,” as they are officially termed—but the Internal Revenue Service publishes their names on a quarterly basis in the Federal Register. ... The number of renunciants is small. In 2002, for example, the Register recorded only 403 departures, of which many (if not most) were merely longtime resident aliens returning home." Electing to Leave (Harpers.org)
Law of Unintended Consequences
The following story, although published in the News Telegraph, may not be accurate. See http://www.snopes.com/media/notnews/brothel.asp
for more information.
for more information.
The job seeker said that she had worked in a cafe as a waitress and was willing to work as a bar maid in the evenings, so the state decided that qualified her for the world's oldest profession. Other women who had worked as telephone callers were sent to jobs in the telephone sex industry. Anyone who refuses to take these jobs, risks having her unemployment benefits recinded. One has to wonder what kind of "interesting" positions are offered to males at German Unemployment Offices.
"If you don't take a job as a prostitute, we can stop your benefits ~~ A 25-year-old waitress who turned down a job providing "sexual services'' at a brothel in Berlin faces possible cuts to her unemployment benefit under laws introduced this year. Under Germany's welfare reforms, any woman under 55 who has been out of work for more than a year can be forced to take an available job – including in the sex industry – or lose her unemployment benefit."
"There is now nothing in the law to stop women from being sent into the sex industry," said Merchthild Garweg, a lawyer from Hamburg who specialises in such cases. "The new regulations say that working in the sex industry is not immoral any more, and so jobs cannot be turned down without a risk to benefits."
"Now that prostitution is no longer considered by the law to be immoral, there is really nothing but the goodwill of the job centres to stop them from pushing women into jobs they don't want to do."
After the War
Congratulations to Arthur Chrenkoff, an Australian blogger, for making the Wall Street Journal's Editorial Page today.
AFTER THE WAR
Happy Birthday
A roundup of the past two weeks' good news from Iraq.
BY ARTHUR CHRENKOFF
Monday, January 31, 2005 12:01 a.m. EST
Sunday, January 30, 2005
Demand Perfection!
"It is hard to say that something is legitimate when whole portions of the country can't vote and doesn't vote," ~Senator John Kerry, D-Mass., 30 January 2005
What if ... John Kerry had been George Washington, unanimously elected by his countrymen in 1789? John Kerry, true to his principles would have abdicated, because of the Illegitimacy of the election. Only one in fifteen of his countrymen was permitted to vote in the new republic.
The founding fathers had worried about the liberalization of suffrage laws. John Adams wrote: "It is dangerous to open so fruitful a source of controversy and altercation as would be opened by attempting to alter the qualifications of voters; there will be no end of it. New claims will arise: women will demand a vote; lads from twelve to twenty-one will think their rights not enough attended to; and every man who has not a farthing will demand an equal voice with any other in all acts of state."
When my mother was born, although voting rights had been expanded to some descendants of slaves, her own mother was not eligible to vote because she was a woman. Somehow our democracy has muddled through to the "perfection" of today. Thank God that John Kerry was not George Washington, as the "imperfect" fledgling Republic of 1789 would have been too illegitimate to bother with.
The "Illegitimate" Election of 1789
"It is hard to say that something is legitimate when whole portions of the country can't vote and doesn't vote," ~Senator John Kerry, D-Mass., 30 January 2005
The election of 1789 was the first presidential election in the United States of America. New York failed to appoint its allotment of eight electors, and subsequently cast no electoral votes. North Carolina and Rhode Island also did not cast votes, as they had not yet ratified the United States Constitution.
Women, non-whites, non-property owners and others were not allowed to vote. How does John Kerry characterize America's first election? How does it compare to the Iraqi election today? Seems to me, to remain consistant, Senator Kerry would have to describe our very first election, as a brand new democracy, to also have been illegitimate. Then again, who in his or her right mind expects John Kerry to be consistent?
Women, non-whites, non-property owners and others were not allowed to vote. How does John Kerry characterize America's first election? How does it compare to the Iraqi election today? Seems to me, to remain consistant, Senator Kerry would have to describe our very first election, as a brand new democracy, to also have been illegitimate. Then again, who in his or her right mind expects John Kerry to be consistent?
Sour Grapes Kerry
"It is hard to say that something is legitimate when whole portions of the country can't vote and doesn't vote," Senator John Kerry, D-Mass., said on NBC's "Meet The Press" today.
Was he speaking of the very first election on American soil at the birth of the first democracy in the world? Let's see, those Americans elected their Revolution's military commander as President of their country with only one in fifteen people eligible to vote. About half the population was ineligible because of its female gender. Another large percentage was counted out because of its race being other than white. In addition, anyone not owning real estate in the new country was unqualified to vote also. Even religion was a factor in some of the new states.
Oh no, Kerry was speaking of Iraq! Their election was NOT legitimate he says. Please, someone ask him about the election of George Washington. Also, how about the votes for the Constitution and the Bill of Rights of the United States? Were they illegitimate, because my great great great grandmothers were not allowed a say?
Say a prayer of gratitude that such a "non-leader" is NOT president of these United States.
No Joy says Kerry!
Oh dear, I was too joyous, too soon! Senator Kerry is warning that there is to be NO JUBILATION! John Kerry was just speaking on "Meet the Press" and he said “No one in the United States should try to over-hype this election.” Let us all hide our joy under a bushel somewhere, so as not to offend - whomever. And suppose the election had been a total failure? Would the same John Kerry be saying "No one should try to disparage this election?" Oh yeah - think again.
70% - 75%?
Can it be true? The Iraqi election turnout is much higher than anyone expected! Indications are that 75% of Baghdad turned out. Contemplate the meaning of such actions of the populace in the face of horrific violence. Could it be that Iraqi people love democracy more than we do? Could the naysayers be proved totally wrong? Hallelujah! Hallelujah! Contemplate the ramifications of a democratic regime in the heart of the Islamic world. God bless us all! God bless America!
"And the chief captain answered, With a great sum obtained I this freedom. And Paul said, But I was free born." ... Acts of the Apostles 22:28
Saturday, January 29, 2005
Hate Tracts in American Mosques
In the United States, Muslim hate ideology has escaped notice until recently because of America's traditional respect for all religions. We do not attact and criticize the faiths of others. However, what is being taught in American mosques is not religion, but political dogma. We tolerate this because we have been told that Islam is a religion of peace and that most Muslims are moderates.
From The Washington Times: World - January 29, 2005:
The government of Saudi Arabia is spreading 'hate propaganda' in religious tracts sent to mosques throughout America, telling Muslims to hate Christians and Jews and to kill any Muslim who converts to another religion, a leading human rights group charged yesterday. Saudi government literature collected during the past year from American mosques also tells Muslims living in the United States to 'behave as if on a mission behind enemy lines.' according to a report: "Saudi Publications on Hate Ideology Fill American Mosques." The report studied more than 200 original documents, all published and disseminated by the government of Saudi Arabia. "When a government agitates hatred and intolerance, when it counsels people in an authoritative voice to kill other people, that's a human rights violation. That's not protected by First Amendment or free speech," said Nina Shea, director of the Freedom House's Center for Religious Freedom and the editor of the report. Freedom House, which was founded by Eleanor Roosevelt, is one of the oldest human rights groups in the United States. In most instances, the report said, involvement by the Saudi government was immediately evident from the seal or name of a government department emblazoned on the cover of the literature. These documents advised Muslims in the United States on how to snub Jews and Christians, for example by refusing to greet them and congratulate them on religious holidays.In addition to demonizing "nonbelievers," documents call Muslims who practice a moderate interpretation of Islam and embrace tolerance traitors deserving of punishment, even death. Says one document: "Those who reside in the land of unbelief out of their own choice and desire to be with the people of that land, accepting the way they are regarding their faith, or giving compliments to them, or pleasing them by pointing out something wrong with the Muslims, they become unbelievers and enemies to Allah and his messenger."
One particularly chilling tract urges Muslims to kill any Muslims who convert to another religion. It says of Muslims who accept Judaism or Christianity: "If you do not repent, you are an apostate and you should be killed because you have denied the Koran." This tract was published by the Saudi Ministry of Religious Affairs and collected at the King Fahd Mosque in Los Angeles.
From The Washington Times: World - January 29, 2005:
The government of Saudi Arabia is spreading 'hate propaganda' in religious tracts sent to mosques throughout America, telling Muslims to hate Christians and Jews and to kill any Muslim who converts to another religion, a leading human rights group charged yesterday. Saudi government literature collected during the past year from American mosques also tells Muslims living in the United States to 'behave as if on a mission behind enemy lines.' according to a report: "Saudi Publications on Hate Ideology Fill American Mosques." The report studied more than 200 original documents, all published and disseminated by the government of Saudi Arabia. "When a government agitates hatred and intolerance, when it counsels people in an authoritative voice to kill other people, that's a human rights violation. That's not protected by First Amendment or free speech," said Nina Shea, director of the Freedom House's Center for Religious Freedom and the editor of the report. Freedom House, which was founded by Eleanor Roosevelt, is one of the oldest human rights groups in the United States. In most instances, the report said, involvement by the Saudi government was immediately evident from the seal or name of a government department emblazoned on the cover of the literature. These documents advised Muslims in the United States on how to snub Jews and Christians, for example by refusing to greet them and congratulate them on religious holidays.In addition to demonizing "nonbelievers," documents call Muslims who practice a moderate interpretation of Islam and embrace tolerance traitors deserving of punishment, even death. Says one document: "Those who reside in the land of unbelief out of their own choice and desire to be with the people of that land, accepting the way they are regarding their faith, or giving compliments to them, or pleasing them by pointing out something wrong with the Muslims, they become unbelievers and enemies to Allah and his messenger."
One particularly chilling tract urges Muslims to kill any Muslims who convert to another religion. It says of Muslims who accept Judaism or Christianity: "If you do not repent, you are an apostate and you should be killed because you have denied the Koran." This tract was published by the Saudi Ministry of Religious Affairs and collected at the King Fahd Mosque in Los Angeles.
The Faith of Our Fathers
On 8 June 1783, General Washington, upon his disbanding of the Continental Army, addressed a missive to the governors of the thirteen orginal states. Here is what the Father of our country wrote:
The words quoted above are said to be inscribed on a bronze tablet adjoining the Washington pew in Saint Paul's chapel in New York City. Someone please, remind me again about the debate over "separation of church and state".
Cross Posted at "Blogging the Revolution".
"Now I make it my earnest prayer that God would have you and the State over which you preside, in His holy protection, that He would incline the hearts of the citizens to cultivate a spirit of subordination and obedience to government, to entertain brotherly affection and love for one another, for their fellow citizens and the United States at large, and particularly for their brethren who have served in the field, and finally, that He would most graciously be pleased to dispose us all to do justice, to love mercy and to demean ourselves with that charity, humility and pacific temper of mind which were the characteristics of the Divine Author of our blessed religion and without an humble imitation of whose example in these things we can never hope to be a happy nation. I have the honor to be, with much esteem and respect, Sir, your Excellency's most obedient and most humble servant. George Washington."
Cross Posted at "Blogging the Revolution".
Who Deserves Freedom?
Are we idealists or realists for attempting to spread freedom to people and places where it has never been known? In 1775, not so long ago by historical reckoning, there were no democracies anywhere. Then, a band of ragtag colonials, lead by a realist general, fought a Revolution, at the end of which there was one nascent fragile democracy in the entire world. Today, 230 years later, there are 117 democratic governments. In South America, the Caribbean, Asia, the Pacific, the former Soviet Union and Sub-Saharan Africa there are countries with governments elected by their citizens. Our forebears truly did fire the "shot heard round the world" and it is still reverberating.
Tomorrow we have an opportunity in Iraq. By helping the Iraqis, we are helping ourselves remain free. We need to hope and pray that the elections will be a success. The Middle East and the French are fighting our efforts. Our own citizens of the left are hoping that we will fail, as they do not believe people in that part of the world can govern themselves. Or perhaps, they just hate George Bush that much. If their hopes come true, we all lose. Let us try to have the courage of our forebears. Let us fight the fight, however long it may be. That was the commitment made by the American patriots of 1776, and they bequeathed freedom to their heirs and the world. They were idealists. We are realists, as we know that democracy is possible, and that it can survive, at least for a few centuries. Who deserves freedom? All of God's children - that's who!
I am proud that twenty-six of my mother's Virginia ancestors acted the part of patriots in the first Revolution for human freedom. They were her great great great grandparents. They put their lives and fortunes at risk for freedom. Today, some Americans are still doing that.
My Patriot Ancestors
Freedom - Just Another Word?
"By the rude bridge that arched the flood, Their flag to April's breeze unfurled, Hence once the embattled farmers stood And fired the shot heard round the world."~~ EmersonWe have managed to keep freedom's torch burning and to share it with others of God's children yearning to be free. However, freedom has not been allowed to flourish in the Middle East and North Africa. There is only one democratic government there, Israel, and it is in constant threat of annihilation. This area, lacking essential human rights, is the same area where terrorists are trained to attack and destroy free peoples and their works. Democracies do not spawn terrorism.
Tomorrow we have an opportunity in Iraq. By helping the Iraqis, we are helping ourselves remain free. We need to hope and pray that the elections will be a success. The Middle East and the French are fighting our efforts. Our own citizens of the left are hoping that we will fail, as they do not believe people in that part of the world can govern themselves. Or perhaps, they just hate George Bush that much. If their hopes come true, we all lose. Let us try to have the courage of our forebears. Let us fight the fight, however long it may be. That was the commitment made by the American patriots of 1776, and they bequeathed freedom to their heirs and the world. They were idealists. We are realists, as we know that democracy is possible, and that it can survive, at least for a few centuries. Who deserves freedom? All of God's children - that's who!
I am proud that twenty-six of my mother's Virginia ancestors acted the part of patriots in the first Revolution for human freedom. They were her great great great grandparents. They put their lives and fortunes at risk for freedom. Today, some Americans are still doing that.
My Patriot Ancestors
Freedom - Just Another Word?
Friday, January 28, 2005
The Justice of Roosting Chickens
On February 3rd, at Hamilton College in Clinton, New York, where parents pay almost $40,000 a year for their children's liberal arts education, in the name of "academic freedom", those children will listen to Ward Churchill, a teacher of ethnic studies at the University of Colorado. This is the same person who, on September 12, 2001, in his "Some People Push Back: On the Justice of Roosting Chickens", described "gallant sacrifices" of the "combat teams" that struck America's heart the day before, and that those Americans who died that day got what they deserved.
This passage is from darknightpress.org: "The [Pentagon] and those inside comprised military targets, pure and simple. As to those in the World Trade Center: Well, really. Let's get a grip here, shall we? True enough, they were civilians of a sort. But innocent? Gimme a break. They formed a technocratic corps at the very heart of America's global financial empire--the 'mighty engine of profit' to which the military dimension of U.S. policy has always been enslaved--and they did so both willingly and knowingly. If there was a better, more effective, or in fact any other way of visiting some penalty befitting their participation upon the little Eichmanns inhabiting the sterile sanctuary of the twin towers, I'd really be interested in hearing about it."
This passage is from darknightpress.org: "The [Pentagon] and those inside comprised military targets, pure and simple. As to those in the World Trade Center: Well, really. Let's get a grip here, shall we? True enough, they were civilians of a sort. But innocent? Gimme a break. They formed a technocratic corps at the very heart of America's global financial empire--the 'mighty engine of profit' to which the military dimension of U.S. policy has always been enslaved--and they did so both willingly and knowingly. If there was a better, more effective, or in fact any other way of visiting some penalty befitting their participation upon the little Eichmanns inhabiting the sterile sanctuary of the twin towers, I'd really be interested in hearing about it."
Thursday, January 27, 2005
Liberal Lunacy
If you want to wake up with a bit of the Liberal Lunacy, check out
Too Stupid To Be President
and We Are Fascists.
Too Stupid To Be President
and We Are Fascists.
Dutch murder suspect described as fanatic
Theo Van Gogh was brutally slaughtered, in the way of Allah with knives, in broad daylight, and a note speared to his body with one of the knives.
The Theo van Gogh murder in the Netherlands indicates that at least some will not hesitate to enforce Sharia penalties even in the lands of the infidels.
Van Gogh Murderer was Doing God's Will
The new details underscore concerns over homegrown radicals in the Netherlands after the Nov. 2 killing of Van Gogh, who offended many Muslims with his film "Submission," which criticized the treatment of women under Islam.
Dutch murder suspect described as fanatic
"Amsterdam -- The man accused of murdering filmmaker Theo van Gogh on Nov. 2 dreamed of replacing the Dutch government with an Islamic theocracy, and was supported by a network of like-minded fanatics, prosecutors said yesterday at his first public hearing.
The suspect, Amsterdam native Mohammed Bouyeri, 26, did not appear at the pretrial hearing, but his lawyer said Mr. Bouyeri wants to 'be held accountable for his actions' and sees them as part of a religious war.
Mr. van Gogh offended many Muslims with his film Submission, which criticizes the treatment of women under Islam. AP"
How stands freedom of speech in Holland now?
Dutch fest pulls film by slain director
ROTTERDAM: A screening of the controversial short film Submission Part 1 by murdered director Theo van Gogh has been cancelled by Rotterdam International Film Festival organisers because of security concerns.
The 10-minute short, a critical look at the way Muslim women are treated, was to be shown Sunday as part of a debate about filmmakers' freedom of speech.
Van Gogh was murdered in November. In a note left on his body, the assassin indicated that one of his motives for the killing was the film.
The film's producer, Gijs van de Westelaken of Column Prods, has withdrawn the film. "We do not want to take any chance of endangering anyone else who participated in the film," he said in a statement.
The writer of "Submission," politician Ayaan Hirsi Ali, only recently returned to the Dutch Parliament after two months in hiding following the showing of the film on Dutch television in November.
The festival screening was set to take place the same week the trial of a suspect charged with van Gogh's murder was due to get under way in the Netherlands.
Islamism's feisty female foe
Explosives found near Rotterdam port
Then They Came for the Copts ...
~~
First they came for the communists, and I did not speak out--
because I was not a communist;
Then they came for the socialists, and I did not speak out--
because I was not a socialist;
Then they came for the trade unionists, and I did not speak out--
because I was not a trade unionist;
Then they came for the Jews, and I did not speak out--
because I was not a Jew;
Then they came for me--
and there was no one left to speak out for me.
Martin Niemoeller's message still carries a powerful moral impact. He was speaking of the culmination of the Nazi genocide of the Jews, so long ago now, that many have seemingly forgotten it.
First they came for the communists, and I did not speak out--
because I was not a communist;
Then they came for the socialists, and I did not speak out--
because I was not a socialist;
Then they came for the trade unionists, and I did not speak out--
because I was not a trade unionist;
Then they came for the Jews, and I did not speak out--
because I was not a Jew;
Then they came for me--
and there was no one left to speak out for me.
Martin Niemoeller's message still carries a powerful moral impact. He was speaking of the culmination of the Nazi genocide of the Jews, so long ago now, that many have seemingly forgotten it.
Wednesday, January 26, 2005
". . . they will have to kill me to keep me from voting"
Retired Air Force Colonel Ronald Wassom, is in Iraq working with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. He is quoting an Iraqi worker at his current base at Al Ramadi. I'm not so sure about voting in Iraq, Mr. Ron. Maybe, how you say 'absentee' voting would be the way to do it here. Many people may die trying to vote here, Mr. Ron. Maybe it would be better for me to go to Paris or Rome and vote from there, it would be safer for me, he said chuckling.
I agreed it might be safer and then asked Mustafa if he planned to vote any way. 'Mr. Ron, I have lived many years in Iraq. I can remember before there was a Saddam Hussein in Iraq. I have never been free to vote here, Mr. Ron. Iraqis don't know about voting. If I don't get killed going to vote or at the voting place, my vote may not even count anyway. So what have we gained? But I will tell you something, Mr. Ron; they will have to kill me to keep me from voting. And many of my tribesmen feel the same. We have suffered too much and been denied too long to not go this last step. Mr. Ron, it may be just a trickle at first, but when Iraqis see the results of their votes it will be like a flood over all Iraq. Iraqi people, Mr. Ron, want to be free more than anything else.'
I agreed it might be safer and then asked Mustafa if he planned to vote any way. 'Mr. Ron, I have lived many years in Iraq. I can remember before there was a Saddam Hussein in Iraq. I have never been free to vote here, Mr. Ron. Iraqis don't know about voting. If I don't get killed going to vote or at the voting place, my vote may not even count anyway. So what have we gained? But I will tell you something, Mr. Ron; they will have to kill me to keep me from voting. And many of my tribesmen feel the same. We have suffered too much and been denied too long to not go this last step. Mr. Ron, it may be just a trickle at first, but when Iraqis see the results of their votes it will be like a flood over all Iraq. Iraqi people, Mr. Ron, want to be free more than anything else.'
How many of you Liberals does it take to win a war?
(A War Poem from a Vietnam Vet)
How many of you Liberals
does it take to win a war?
Well how the hell can we tell?
You won’t fight one anymore.
You say that you support the troops,
but the truth’s plain as your face,
You’d pull us from the battle,
march us home in full disgrace.
You’ve no stomach for the fighting,
got no mettle, got no pluck;
If you ran this war on terror,
we’d be a very well plucked duck.
The wolves of Jihad smell your dread,
can smell your craven breath,
And emboldened by the fear they scent,
lust for our bloody death.
~~The Rest of the Poem
How many of you Liberals
does it take to win a war?
Well how the hell can we tell?
You won’t fight one anymore.
You say that you support the troops,
but the truth’s plain as your face,
You’d pull us from the battle,
march us home in full disgrace.
You’ve no stomach for the fighting,
got no mettle, got no pluck;
If you ran this war on terror,
we’d be a very well plucked duck.
The wolves of Jihad smell your dread,
can smell your craven breath,
And emboldened by the fear they scent,
lust for our bloody death.
~~The Rest of the Poem
DeFazio says ....
You've just got to wonder about that investigation of the Coptic murders in New Jersey. Just what is the meaning of all the conflicting statements we get from this guy, Edward DeFasio? A few days ago he was quoted as saying there was no evidence of it being a hate crime. Here is the latest:
They were bound, gagged, and had bled to death from multiple stab wounds, including wounds to their throats, before they were found two days later, DeFazio said. ... But DeFazio said religious items in the victims' home were not desecrated, there was no mutilation of the bodies, and that no religious message was left at the scene.
Jihad in Jersey City
Egypt Grudge Eyed in Killings
Why the Copts are so upset
They were bound, gagged, and had bled to death from multiple stab wounds, including wounds to their throats, before they were found two days later, DeFazio said. ... But DeFazio said religious items in the victims' home were not desecrated, there was no mutilation of the bodies, and that no religious message was left at the scene.
Jihad in Jersey City
Egypt Grudge Eyed in Killings
Why the Copts are so upset
Carter & Oil for Food
Could it be? Was our do-gooder ex-President, Jimmy Carter, doing good for Saddam Hussein and himself with the "Oil for Food" program? Don't we give these people enough life-time retirement benefits when they leave government service? Is this why he has been on the other side of our foreign policy efforts?
Group presses Carter on oil-for-food scam - ex-president linked to key figure
Jimmy Carter linked to oil-for-food scam
Ex-president worked with key figure in scandal combating Iraqi sanctions
"Did President Carter know he was dealing with an agent of Saddam Hussein or was he just terribly gullible?" asked Morgan. "And if he truly was naïve as to Samir Vincent's true agenda, then now is the time for him to come forward and repudiate Mr. Vincent and his actions."
Group presses Carter on oil-for-food scam - ex-president linked to key figure
Jimmy Carter linked to oil-for-food scam
Ex-president worked with key figure in scandal combating Iraqi sanctions
"Did President Carter know he was dealing with an agent of Saddam Hussein or was he just terribly gullible?" asked Morgan. "And if he truly was naïve as to Samir Vincent's true agenda, then now is the time for him to come forward and repudiate Mr. Vincent and his actions."
Air Head America Radio Gunning for Gonzales
This is from the Museum of Left Wing Lunancy. Don't you just love his blog banner?
Tuesday, January 25, 2005
No Proof or Evidence
Yesterday, the Hudson County, New Jersey prosecutor, Edward DeFazio, said there was no proof that religious hatred was to blame for the Armanious family's murder. He added "Certainly, based on the viciousness of the attacks, we think there's more than taking the money that was in the apartment". When asked if it could be a Muslim against Christian murder, authorities are saying that nothing so far supports that theory. "Is it possible? Yes," DeFazio said. "Do we have anything that gives us reason to believe this is what it was, factually? No. Nothing indicates that was the prime motivation for this. That we can clearly say."
So we are told, the murders were more than a robbery, but it is clear that the murders had nothing to do with religious hatred. That seems to be the government's conclusion and probably all that we will know for now. Jihad Watch seems to be staying on top of the story, so if you want to keep up with it, check with them. This is a brutal crime that the news outlets find uninteresting. The Muslim PR group CAIR, seems to have convinced the MSM, and investigators, that a robber gang armed with knives, instead of guns, is on the loose, and to top off the robberies the gang "inexplicably" leaves their victims bound and beheaded.
So we are told, the murders were more than a robbery, but it is clear that the murders had nothing to do with religious hatred. That seems to be the government's conclusion and probably all that we will know for now. Jihad Watch seems to be staying on top of the story, so if you want to keep up with it, check with them. This is a brutal crime that the news outlets find uninteresting. The Muslim PR group CAIR, seems to have convinced the MSM, and investigators, that a robber gang armed with knives, instead of guns, is on the loose, and to top off the robberies the gang "inexplicably" leaves their victims bound and beheaded.
Monday, January 24, 2005
C.A.I.R. Watch
CAIR - True to Form ~~ The Washington-based Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) contacted a New York radio station on Friday complaining about a song it aired that mocked victims of the recent tsunami in South Asia. The radio station, HOT 97 FM, issued a public apology; "HOT 97 regrets the airing of material that made light of a serious and tragic event. We apologize to our listeners and anyone who was offended."
Interesting it is, that the song which CAIR found to be so offensive, is now posted on the front page of their web site, with an invitation from them to "Click Here to Hear the Song" >>. Very telling.
Interesting it is, that the song which CAIR found to be so offensive, is now posted on the front page of their web site, with an invitation from them to "Click Here to Hear the Song" >>. Very telling.
Faithful live for Christ
Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia says that the faithful should live for Christ and he advises that Christians live fearlessly.
U.S. Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia said Saturday that people of faith should not fear being viewed by "educated circles" as "fools for Christ."
"If I have brought any message today, it is this: Have the courage to have your wisdom regarded as stupidity. Be fools for Christ. And have the courage to suffer the contempt of the sophisticated world."
TheAdvocate.com
U.S. Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia said Saturday that people of faith should not fear being viewed by "educated circles" as "fools for Christ."
"If I have brought any message today, it is this: Have the courage to have your wisdom regarded as stupidity. Be fools for Christ. And have the courage to suffer the contempt of the sophisticated world."
TheAdvocate.com
Buy Nokia? -- Think again!
Nokia CEO voices concern about U.S. mores
Ollila said he thinks people are more concerned about individual rights than taking responsibility for their actions and trying to have a positive influence on society.
"What I'm worried about is that if this disintegration of values continues and develops further, we'll get a conservative counter-reaction precisely like what has actually happened in the USA," he said.
"This ultraconservatism, coupled with the elements of the church ... which, as we well know, has also supported the current (U.S.) administration, is a powerful counter-reaction to a longtime vacuum of values in society," Ollila said.
Time to trade in your cell phone, and let Nokia sell to Finland and Russia where they are more enlightened.
Ollila said he thinks people are more concerned about individual rights than taking responsibility for their actions and trying to have a positive influence on society.
"What I'm worried about is that if this disintegration of values continues and develops further, we'll get a conservative counter-reaction precisely like what has actually happened in the USA," he said.
"This ultraconservatism, coupled with the elements of the church ... which, as we well know, has also supported the current (U.S.) administration, is a powerful counter-reaction to a longtime vacuum of values in society," Ollila said.
Time to trade in your cell phone, and let Nokia sell to Finland and Russia where they are more enlightened.
Sunday, January 23, 2005
News on the Coptic Slayings?
NOTHING - except, according to Hudson County, New Jersey Prosecutor, Edward DeFazio, who said the slayings were not random and carried out by "a number of people," conceded the possibility that investigators might meet a dead end.
The killers, numbers unknown, are still on the loose and may not be found.
The heads of the family has been separated from their bodies (they have been beheaded) at their home at Jersey ~~This is a posting from a Muslim (Religion of Peace) Message Board. It has been translated from the original Arabic. The members of the Religion of Peace are joyous: "The good planting has started to yield thank Allah and soon, Allah willing, an intense Islamic revolution all across America that holds the right and bring down the falsehood that they’ve created 'Bushie Bushie' you have no exit, you’re surrounded with the hatred that you’ve planted. Allah, please, bring victory to Muslims on earth east and west oh your almighty and wisdom…amen.”
A Coptic Illusion
The killers, numbers unknown, are still on the loose and may not be found.
The heads of the family has been separated from their bodies (they have been beheaded) at their home at Jersey ~~This is a posting from a Muslim (Religion of Peace) Message Board. It has been translated from the original Arabic. The members of the Religion of Peace are joyous: "The good planting has started to yield thank Allah and soon, Allah willing, an intense Islamic revolution all across America that holds the right and bring down the falsehood that they’ve created 'Bushie Bushie' you have no exit, you’re surrounded with the hatred that you’ve planted. Allah, please, bring victory to Muslims on earth east and west oh your almighty and wisdom…amen.”
A Coptic Illusion
Bobby Burns
The post about Robert Burns and the Burns Suppers has been moved to:
http://neddy.blogsome.com/2006/01/22/rabbie-burns/.
http://neddy.blogsome.com/2006/01/22/rabbie-burns/.
Saturday, January 22, 2005
Do you know ...
I sit in one of the dives
On Fifty-second Street
Uncertain and afraid
As the clever hopes expire
Of a low dishonest decade.
Opening lines of the poem by W.H. Auden,
entitled "September 1, 1939"
Opening lines of the poem by W.H. Auden,
entitled "September 1, 1939"
Do you know that World War IV has begun? You are in it, right now. It is around you. You can fight, you can run, you can capitulate, you can surrender. The choice is yours and the reality is the future. You cannot escape the reality.
World War IV: How It Started, What It Means, and Why We Have to Win by Norman Podhoretz, September 2004
World War IV: How It Started, What It Means, and Why We Have to Win by Norman Podhoretz, September 2004
Anti-Muslim Bias?
More than a week ago, an entire Christian family was slaughtered in Jersey City, and there has been no comment from police as to the status of investigations. The killers are still at large! Yes, killers, as the investigators say that the ritualistic crime required more than one perpetrator. The Coptic community in that part of America is in mortal fear, as they knew this type of hate crime in their Egyptian homeland. So is it not telling that when you get the news today, the BIG STORY is that Anti-Muslim Bias has returned to Jersey City? Thank you AP, for getting to the heart of the matter! Meanwhile, I am just hoping that the police find the killers soon.
N.J. Deaths Spark New Anti-Muslim Bias
Suzanne Loutfy, a Muslim leader of the Egyptian-American Group, asked people not to blame Islam if the killers are found to be Muslim.
"People are so willing to condemn an entire religion," she said. "That's what the big problem is. People commit crimes; religions don't. I hope we can be intelligent enough to separate those two."
N.J. Deaths Spark New Anti-Muslim Bias
Suzanne Loutfy, a Muslim leader of the Egyptian-American Group, asked people not to blame Islam if the killers are found to be Muslim.
"People are so willing to condemn an entire religion," she said. "That's what the big problem is. People commit crimes; religions don't. I hope we can be intelligent enough to separate those two."
Friday, January 21, 2005
Imagination
Did you know that mathematics was invented by the ancient Babylonians? Do you know that many Muslim Americans believe that the massive tsunami of last month was not a natural occurance, but was caused by the United States detonating a nuclear device in the ocean? Do you realize that it took seven years to send a probe from our planet Earth, to land on Titan--Saturn's largest moon? Do you understand that many people on Earth will never believe that it happened? The people of the West look to the stars -- the heavens -- the future, to start their imaginations swirling, while others are hurtling themselves into the deep caverns of a bygone era, the dark ages of repression and cruelty.
Scientific Unease
To some, all moons are saturnine.
BY TUNKU VARADARAJAN ~~ Our Islamist antagonists have an underdeveloped sense of science, chiefly because of their inability to let the (sacred) Word slip out of the mullah's grasp. The empirical will always struggle to exist alongside the religious in lands where godly texts are not open to candid evaluation. How can there be data-testing--and an impartial imagination--if no one asks hard questions, if one is taught that all the answers to everything exist already, in the Book?
Scientific Unease
To some, all moons are saturnine.
BY TUNKU VARADARAJAN ~~ Our Islamist antagonists have an underdeveloped sense of science, chiefly because of their inability to let the (sacred) Word slip out of the mullah's grasp. The empirical will always struggle to exist alongside the religious in lands where godly texts are not open to candid evaluation. How can there be data-testing--and an impartial imagination--if no one asks hard questions, if one is taught that all the answers to everything exist already, in the Book?
Military on the Mall
And no, I'm not in Fallujah. This is Washington, D.C.
While a grand miltary presence guards the Inauguration ceremonies, the President speaks of extending freedom in the world. Even more amazing, he spoke of the Ten Commandments, the Sermon on the Mount and the Qur'an, as moral equivalents. While military aircraft hover overhead, we are to believe, as Mr. Bush said, that the Old Testament's "Thou shall not kill", the New Testament's "Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you" and the Qur'an's "Muhammad is Allah's Apostle, Those who follow him are ruthless to the unbelievers but merciful to one another", are all pretty much the same moral message? To protect these democratic traditions in a democratic nation, now requires a massive deployment of military hardware, including anti-aircraft missile batteries on the ground of our nation's capital. Sharpshooters are on Washington rooftops but in Iraq our military commander, General John Vines, has advised his senior staff to learn about Islam by reading from the works of jihad and sharia law appologists, Karen Armstrong and John Esposito. The blinders and sugar coating continues in effect.
President George W. Bush, God bless him, said "So it is the policy of the United States to seek and support the growth of democratic movements and institutions in every nation and culture, with the ultimate goal of ending tyranny in our world."
How does he go about accomplishing such when, according to Islamists Allah has commanded "And kill them until there is no more dissent and the religion of Allah is supreme."
Islamists say that the Koran forbids democracy and that Muslim practitioners are to be killed:
1.) Ruling is for Allah alone - not for the people - and the people should merely obey Allah's commands and his Islamic law..." ...
3.) The religion of Allah is complete, as are his Islamic laws comprehensive and complete. Therefore, casting ballots over his already known and established laws is considered to be the worst of the forbidden acts. ...
6.) The basic concept in democracy is 'rule of the majority', yet Allah in his power and majesty has demonstrated to us before that the majority of the people have strayed from the path [of the religion]... so how are we to let that majority lead us when most people are ignorant?
From Daniel Sensing: Our enemies wish us lethal harm, have present means to inflict it and seek means to deliver mass destruction to our shores. There is a large, well-funded terrorist organization, active in many nations, possessed of men who will die to achieve their aims. Sept. 11, 2001 and terrorism in Iraq prove that they have the will to do so. If Iran's mullahs or North Korea are not actual allies already, they will be, especially if we give them or their successors years and years to do so. The campaign against terrorism is foundationally a contest of wills - and dare I say it, a spiritual struggle.
The real issue is whether the Western Civilization shall prevail against the last vestige of medievalism; whether the rule of men who behead their prisoners, enslave their women and deny the rights of self-determination to their own people, shall kill us and displace us, to whom the individual and individual rights are sacred and whose laws require respect for freedom of conscience, freedom of religion and whose traditions preserve freedom from fear and cruelty. In the long history of civilization, this task is to be done now. Daniel Sensing
While a grand miltary presence guards the Inauguration ceremonies, the President speaks of extending freedom in the world. Even more amazing, he spoke of the Ten Commandments, the Sermon on the Mount and the Qur'an, as moral equivalents. While military aircraft hover overhead, we are to believe, as Mr. Bush said, that the Old Testament's "Thou shall not kill", the New Testament's "Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you" and the Qur'an's "Muhammad is Allah's Apostle, Those who follow him are ruthless to the unbelievers but merciful to one another", are all pretty much the same moral message? To protect these democratic traditions in a democratic nation, now requires a massive deployment of military hardware, including anti-aircraft missile batteries on the ground of our nation's capital. Sharpshooters are on Washington rooftops but in Iraq our military commander, General John Vines, has advised his senior staff to learn about Islam by reading from the works of jihad and sharia law appologists, Karen Armstrong and John Esposito. The blinders and sugar coating continues in effect.
President George W. Bush, God bless him, said "So it is the policy of the United States to seek and support the growth of democratic movements and institutions in every nation and culture, with the ultimate goal of ending tyranny in our world."
How does he go about accomplishing such when, according to Islamists Allah has commanded "And kill them until there is no more dissent and the religion of Allah is supreme."
Islamists say that the Koran forbids democracy and that Muslim practitioners are to be killed:
1.) Ruling is for Allah alone - not for the people - and the people should merely obey Allah's commands and his Islamic law..." ...
3.) The religion of Allah is complete, as are his Islamic laws comprehensive and complete. Therefore, casting ballots over his already known and established laws is considered to be the worst of the forbidden acts. ...
6.) The basic concept in democracy is 'rule of the majority', yet Allah in his power and majesty has demonstrated to us before that the majority of the people have strayed from the path [of the religion]... so how are we to let that majority lead us when most people are ignorant?
From Daniel Sensing: Our enemies wish us lethal harm, have present means to inflict it and seek means to deliver mass destruction to our shores. There is a large, well-funded terrorist organization, active in many nations, possessed of men who will die to achieve their aims. Sept. 11, 2001 and terrorism in Iraq prove that they have the will to do so. If Iran's mullahs or North Korea are not actual allies already, they will be, especially if we give them or their successors years and years to do so. The campaign against terrorism is foundationally a contest of wills - and dare I say it, a spiritual struggle.
The real issue is whether the Western Civilization shall prevail against the last vestige of medievalism; whether the rule of men who behead their prisoners, enslave their women and deny the rights of self-determination to their own people, shall kill us and displace us, to whom the individual and individual rights are sacred and whose laws require respect for freedom of conscience, freedom of religion and whose traditions preserve freedom from fear and cruelty. In the long history of civilization, this task is to be done now. Daniel Sensing
Latest on the Coptic Murders
It has been more than a week since the ritualistic slaying of a Coptic New Jersey family and still no word from the police nor FBI. The many press releases from Muslim organizations say that it is being investigated as a robbery. The reality is that the persons who committed the grisly act are still at large in the community, whether they be burglars or Islamists. There was a large amount of jewelry remaining in the home and there were no signs of forced entry, indicating the family trusted the assasins. The community of Egyptian Christians, because of their awareness of religious persecution in their homeland by Muslims, are convinced from the particulars of the crime, that is was not random, but was done in accord with Sharia law.
A close friend of the Coptic Christian brutally murdered in New Jersey along with his family, Hossam Armanious, is the source of this information, which comes to you exclusively from Jihad Watch:
The Armanious family had inspired several Muslims to convert to Christianity — or thought they had. These converts were actually practicing taqiyya, or religious deception, pretending to be friends of these Christians in order to strengthen themselves against them, as in Qur'an 3:28: "Let believers not make friends with infidels in preference to the faithful -- he that does this has nothing to hope for from Allah -- except in self-defense."
It was these "converts" who knocked on the door of the Armanious home. Of course, the family, not suspecting the deception, was happy to see the "converted" men and willingly let them in to their home. That's why there was no sign of forced entry. Then the "converted" Muslims did their grisly work.
A close friend of the Coptic Christian brutally murdered in New Jersey along with his family, Hossam Armanious, is the source of this information, which comes to you exclusively from Jihad Watch:
The Armanious family had inspired several Muslims to convert to Christianity — or thought they had. These converts were actually practicing taqiyya, or religious deception, pretending to be friends of these Christians in order to strengthen themselves against them, as in Qur'an 3:28: "Let believers not make friends with infidels in preference to the faithful -- he that does this has nothing to hope for from Allah -- except in self-defense."
It was these "converts" who knocked on the door of the Armanious home. Of course, the family, not suspecting the deception, was happy to see the "converted" men and willingly let them in to their home. That's why there was no sign of forced entry. Then the "converted" Muslims did their grisly work.
Poll Workers Needed
The following is from 2nd Lt. Lance Frizzell, a Medical Platoon Leader with the Tennessee National Guard 278th Regimental Combat Team, currently serving in Northern Iraq. He writes that they are looking for a few of those "Human Shields" that were all over Iraq before it was liberated. They need their bravery as poll workers and poll watchers at the upcoming Iraqi elections. But where are they? No one has seen them trying to help the Iraqi people to become free.
"Back in January '03, you may remember a group of Western liberals who volunteered to go to Iraq as human shields in case the US enforced UN resolutions that Saddam violated.
"...they are willing to put themselves in the firing line should US and British forces bomb Iraq. They plan to identify potential bombing targets such as power stations and bridges and act as human shields to protect them."
Well, I think I have just the job for these globe-travelers: Iraq Election Poll Worker. They are familiar with the terrain and people, they have a self-professed desire to help and they seem very articulate. However, their biggest asset is bravery. If they are willing to hunker down between Coalition Forces and a bridge, standing between a foreign terrorist and a polling precinct should be no big deal. Any takers?
"Back in January '03, you may remember a group of Western liberals who volunteered to go to Iraq as human shields in case the US enforced UN resolutions that Saddam violated.
"...they are willing to put themselves in the firing line should US and British forces bomb Iraq. They plan to identify potential bombing targets such as power stations and bridges and act as human shields to protect them."
Well, I think I have just the job for these globe-travelers: Iraq Election Poll Worker. They are familiar with the terrain and people, they have a self-professed desire to help and they seem very articulate. However, their biggest asset is bravery. If they are willing to hunker down between Coalition Forces and a bridge, standing between a foreign terrorist and a polling precinct should be no big deal. Any takers?
Thursday, January 20, 2005
The Fatwa is Back!
Death threat returns to haunt Salmon Rushdie
The threat against the author of "The Satanic Verses" seemed to have gone away forever, the fatwa is back. It was reaffirmed by Iran's spiritual leader in a message to Muslim pilgrims. According to the Iranian media, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran's supreme leader, told pilgrims making the annual pilgrimage to Mecca that Rushdie was an apostate whose killing would be authorised by Islam.
The threat against the author of "The Satanic Verses" seemed to have gone away forever, the fatwa is back. It was reaffirmed by Iran's spiritual leader in a message to Muslim pilgrims. According to the Iranian media, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran's supreme leader, told pilgrims making the annual pilgrimage to Mecca that Rushdie was an apostate whose killing would be authorised by Islam.
American Muslims Condemn Christian Aid
CAIR - a Muslim political organization has been objecting to the aid relief given to the predominately Muslim tsunami victims by Christian groups in the United States. They are condemning the message of the gospel of Jesus Christ which, they claim, is tied to the relief. But why? Muslims supposedly honor Jesus Christ as a prophet and the New Testament is one of their holy books. If anyone refuses to accept Jesus as their savior, the most that can happen is that the Christians will pray for them. There is no belief among Christians to send unbelievers off to heaven by way of killing them ritualistically. Perhaps the Muslims living in America are too well fed, clothed and sheltered, to understand the plight of the unfortunates tossed by the Christmas Tsunami. Could it be envy, that the western world, per capita, has contributed much, much more to their relief than any Muslim country, including those many oil rich states. And guess what, Israel, who has no oil at all, contributed the most!
U.S. Muslims say exploitation of Tsunami aid hurts America's image
by OfficialWire NewsDesk
WASHINGTON, D.C. -- (OfficialWire) -- 01/19/05 -- A prominent national Islamic civil rights and advocacy group has called on the Bush administration to repudiate missionary groups that harm America's international image by seeking to exploit suffering caused by the recent earthquake and tsunami in South Asia.
Christians 'Exploiting' Tsunami Disaster, Group Says
U.S. Muslims say exploitation of Tsunami aid hurts America's image
by OfficialWire NewsDesk
WASHINGTON, D.C. -- (OfficialWire) -- 01/19/05 -- A prominent national Islamic civil rights and advocacy group has called on the Bush administration to repudiate missionary groups that harm America's international image by seeking to exploit suffering caused by the recent earthquake and tsunami in South Asia.
Christians 'Exploiting' Tsunami Disaster, Group Says
Wednesday, January 19, 2005
Barbara Boxer & Al-Jazeerah
The Democrats never fail to show us exactly who they side with. This is from the pro-islamist terrorist publication, Al-Jazeerah.
Senator Boxer Shows Conde Rice to Be a Liar, by Sam Hamod
Al-Jazeerah, January 19, 2005
Senator Boxer Shows Conde Rice to Be a Liar, by Sam Hamod
Al-Jazeerah, January 19, 2005
Happy Inauguration Day!
JIB-JAB's BACK!
Here's JibJab's "Second Term", just released today. Don't miss it!
And don't miss An Inauguration Speech, written by P.J. O'Rourke.
Here's a picture of the VP kicking back in his cowboy boots!
Killed in the Way of Allah?
No Motive Still?
An autopsy has revealed that the cause of death for all four was the slashing of their necks. The police are continuing to investigate the murders as a robbery event, however considering the particular savagery of the crimes, and the belief of the police that more than one person was involved, most find that theory a bit difficult to comprehend.
"The bodies were found - bound, gagged and stabbed in their necks and bodies - early Friday morning after relatives reported them missing, but investigators believe they were killed two days before." from the Jersey Journal, January 19, 2005
Here are the words of MUHAMMAD, revealed at MADINA, in the name of Allah, the Compassionate, the Merciful.
The Qur'an 47:5-7
47: 5. And when you meet in regular battle those who disbelieve, smite their necks; and, when you have overcome them, by causing great slaughter among them, bind fast the fetters - then afterwards either release them as a favour or by taking ransom - until the war lays down its burdens. That is the ordinance. And if ALLAH had so pleased, HE could have punished them Himself, but HE has willed that HE may try some of you by others. And those who are killed in the way of ALLAH - HE will never render their works vain.
47: 6. HE will guide them to success and will improve their condition.
47: 7. And will admit them into the Garden which HE has made known to them.
Another New Jersey Beheading?
Severed Head Found Near Movie Theater
This occurred a week after and about 35 miles from the previous story.
This occurred a week after and about 35 miles from the previous story.
Tuesday, January 18, 2005
If You Ever Doubt ...
the resolution of President Bush to take the war to the terrorists; if you ever doubt the struggle be worth the blood, limbs and lives of our soldiers; then read the following articles. They are omens of a bleak future if we allow evil religions to gain a foothold. Imagine a future time, when in the glorious land settled, created and founded by Christians, neither they, nor Jews, nor atheists, nor any creed other than Islam, will be allowed to express beliefs and criticisms without fear of mortal reprisals, such as "we are going to track you down like a chicken and kill you". No more the sign of the cross, no more the wearing of symbols of faith, the crucifix, the star of David.
According to the New York Times all four victims received multiple stab wounds and had their throats slit; the latter would be in accord with ritualistic Quranic law. Other reports say that the young teen, Sylvia Armanious, herself an outspoken defender of religious freedom, sustained the most severe wounds, with slash marks on her throat, chest, and through the coptic cross tattoo upon her wrist. Investigators site the gruesome slashing of the cross as an indicator of a hate crime. Other official sources say that all the family members had cross tattooes and none were disturbed. Many in the community say they were beheaded, although this has not been verified by the police. These Coptics who were martyred for their faith on American soil were members of the oldest sect of Christandom, founded by the Apostle Mark in what is now Egypt.
This is a difficult story to follow, as there is contradicting information about the slayings. Although the FBI is involved, some say this is usual for multiple murders. I posted the story yesterday, and then deleted it after reading reports it was likely a robbery. Today, I am tending to see that it was more than that, although I await confirmation from investigators. However, I have come to realize that the fact that so many believe that it was a Muslim against Christian hate crime is the important story. The fact that people, including myself, believe that it COULD be true is the real story! That people believe that members of a religion could commit these heinous murders in the name of their god, is the true sad story.
As Jesus taught so long ago "Ye shall know them by their fruits. ... every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit. Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them." (Matthew 7)
U.S. Copts Association Decries Slaying By Muslim Extremists of Coptic-American Family "Muslim extremists' gruesome slaying of an innocent Coptic family is not only appalling, but disturbing in its implications for the Coptic-American community," said Michael Meunier, president of the U.S. Copts Association. "Since Egypt's exponential increase in anti-Coptic hate crimes, Copts have fled to the U.S. seeking religious liberty and freedom from persecution. That such deadly prejudice has followed Coptic immigrants out of Egypt is deeply alarming, and must serve as a warning to U.S. officials in their campaign against terrorism. The Armanious family members are modern-day martyrs in Islamic fundamentalists' war on Christianity and the freedom it advocates. Al-Qaeda is not only in the Middle East but in New Jersey and we call on the FBI to hunt down the killers and bring them to justice."
The Washington Post • JERSEY CITY -- A funeral for an Egyptian Christian couple and their two daughters slain last week devolved into a melee after the services, with mourners shoving and punching each other as many blamed Muslims for the killings. Investigators are looking into the possibility that Hossam Armanious, 47, his wife, Amal Garas, 37, and their daughters, Sylvia, 15, and Monica, 8, were slain by a Muslim angered over postings that the father wrote in an Internet chat room
'ISLAMIC HATE' EYED IN SLAYS Hossam Armanious, 47, who along with his wife and two daughters was found stabbed to death in his Jersey City home early Friday, would regularly debate religion in a Middle Eastern chat room, one source said. Armanious, an Egyptian Christian, was well known for expressing his Coptic beliefs and engaging in fiery back-and-forth with Muslims on the Web site paltalk.com. He "had the reputation for being one of the most outspoken Egyptian Christians," said the source, who had close ties to the family. The source, who had knowledge of the investigation, refused to specify the anti-Muslim statement. But he said cops told him they were looking into the exchanges as a possible motive. The married father of two had recently been threatened by Muslim members of the Web site, said a fellow Copt and store clerk who uses the chat room. "You'd better stop this bull---- or we are going to track you down like a chicken and kill you," was the threat, said the clerk, who was online at the time and saw the exchange.
An Emotional Holy War
Rage Expodes
Religious Tensions in Jersey City
Mourners Link Religious Feud to 4 Slayings
Murder of a New Jersey Christian Family The jihad against Christianity has now entered our homes.
Look what happened in Holland just a few months ago. Holland is the most tolerant nation in all of Europe (probably the world) and just what did that toleration earn for them? MURDER in broad daylight for offending Islam. Netherlands braces for 'jihad'
According to the New York Times all four victims received multiple stab wounds and had their throats slit; the latter would be in accord with ritualistic Quranic law. Other reports say that the young teen, Sylvia Armanious, herself an outspoken defender of religious freedom, sustained the most severe wounds, with slash marks on her throat, chest, and through the coptic cross tattoo upon her wrist. Investigators site the gruesome slashing of the cross as an indicator of a hate crime. Other official sources say that all the family members had cross tattooes and none were disturbed. Many in the community say they were beheaded, although this has not been verified by the police. These Coptics who were martyred for their faith on American soil were members of the oldest sect of Christandom, founded by the Apostle Mark in what is now Egypt.
This is a difficult story to follow, as there is contradicting information about the slayings. Although the FBI is involved, some say this is usual for multiple murders. I posted the story yesterday, and then deleted it after reading reports it was likely a robbery. Today, I am tending to see that it was more than that, although I await confirmation from investigators. However, I have come to realize that the fact that so many believe that it was a Muslim against Christian hate crime is the important story. The fact that people, including myself, believe that it COULD be true is the real story! That people believe that members of a religion could commit these heinous murders in the name of their god, is the true sad story.
As Jesus taught so long ago "Ye shall know them by their fruits. ... every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit. Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them." (Matthew 7)
U.S. Copts Association Decries Slaying By Muslim Extremists of Coptic-American Family "Muslim extremists' gruesome slaying of an innocent Coptic family is not only appalling, but disturbing in its implications for the Coptic-American community," said Michael Meunier, president of the U.S. Copts Association. "Since Egypt's exponential increase in anti-Coptic hate crimes, Copts have fled to the U.S. seeking religious liberty and freedom from persecution. That such deadly prejudice has followed Coptic immigrants out of Egypt is deeply alarming, and must serve as a warning to U.S. officials in their campaign against terrorism. The Armanious family members are modern-day martyrs in Islamic fundamentalists' war on Christianity and the freedom it advocates. Al-Qaeda is not only in the Middle East but in New Jersey and we call on the FBI to hunt down the killers and bring them to justice."
The Washington Post • JERSEY CITY -- A funeral for an Egyptian Christian couple and their two daughters slain last week devolved into a melee after the services, with mourners shoving and punching each other as many blamed Muslims for the killings. Investigators are looking into the possibility that Hossam Armanious, 47, his wife, Amal Garas, 37, and their daughters, Sylvia, 15, and Monica, 8, were slain by a Muslim angered over postings that the father wrote in an Internet chat room
'ISLAMIC HATE' EYED IN SLAYS Hossam Armanious, 47, who along with his wife and two daughters was found stabbed to death in his Jersey City home early Friday, would regularly debate religion in a Middle Eastern chat room, one source said. Armanious, an Egyptian Christian, was well known for expressing his Coptic beliefs and engaging in fiery back-and-forth with Muslims on the Web site paltalk.com. He "had the reputation for being one of the most outspoken Egyptian Christians," said the source, who had close ties to the family. The source, who had knowledge of the investigation, refused to specify the anti-Muslim statement. But he said cops told him they were looking into the exchanges as a possible motive. The married father of two had recently been threatened by Muslim members of the Web site, said a fellow Copt and store clerk who uses the chat room. "You'd better stop this bull---- or we are going to track you down like a chicken and kill you," was the threat, said the clerk, who was online at the time and saw the exchange.
An Emotional Holy War
Rage Expodes
Religious Tensions in Jersey City
Mourners Link Religious Feud to 4 Slayings
Murder of a New Jersey Christian Family The jihad against Christianity has now entered our homes.
Look what happened in Holland just a few months ago. Holland is the most tolerant nation in all of Europe (probably the world) and just what did that toleration earn for them? MURDER in broad daylight for offending Islam. Netherlands braces for 'jihad'
Monday, January 17, 2005
Praying the Suspicions are Untrue!
This is one horrendous story! A New Jersey family was murdered in their home. They were devout Eqyptian Christians who left their homeland ten years ago because of religious persecution. Some believe the murders had to do with the the father's criticism of Islamists at Internet chat rooms. He was accused of insulting Islam and had been threatened with murder. Supposedly, one of the posters had threatened "we will track you down and kill you like chickens".
The homicide, according to published reports, may have been an act of rage on the part of an Islamic extremist group.
Police are still investigating whether the brutal murders were committed because of an exchange about religion in a chat room on the Web.
Slain Jersey City family buried
Theories Emerging
The homicide, according to published reports, may have been an act of rage on the part of an Islamic extremist group.
Police are still investigating whether the brutal murders were committed because of an exchange about religion in a chat room on the Web.
Slain Jersey City family buried
Theories Emerging
More Liberal Media Bias
Mike Levine, an Israeli/American accuses the NY Times, LA Times, Boston Globe, Denver Post, Atlanta Constitution, CNN, Times of London, and thousands of other newspapers and TV networks worldwide of gross bias against, and naked hatred towards the Jewish state of Israel. Why?
Remember the Christmas Tsunami and the hundreds of thousands of Muslims who were lost and parts of their countries devastated? Remember which nation was ready within hours to provide humanitarian relief? Do you know which nation of the world contributed the most relief per capita? Yes, of course, it was a democratic state, but not the United States. You did not hear about it because the MSM did not report it. It was Israel, a tiny nation smaller than major cities of the world, surrounded by oil rich larger states, full of hatred towards it. Israel sent substantial aid, well trained rescue teams and experience medical personnel within a few hours. Did you know that some of the devastated areas refused the help because it was given by Jews? Read Mike's letter, and ponder just why it is that the major news organizations of the world hate Israel. And continue to ponder about whose side they are really on.
How much help was offered by the oil rich Islamic brotherhood nations? When after days, they were finally shamed into coming forth with relief, it was a pittance! Think upon this. Following a week of Muslim bodies washing ashore, Saudi Arabia "pledged" $10 Million, which they have yet to pay! Imagine, this is from the same country that provided $150 Million ($150,000,000 versus $10,000,000) in 2004 alone to families of Palestinian suicide bombers! Kuwait, the second richest Muslim nation, pledged an equally paltry ten million! Did the main stream media tell you about that? NO!
http://www.isralert.com/archives/2005/01/jaaccusea.php
Remember the Christmas Tsunami and the hundreds of thousands of Muslims who were lost and parts of their countries devastated? Remember which nation was ready within hours to provide humanitarian relief? Do you know which nation of the world contributed the most relief per capita? Yes, of course, it was a democratic state, but not the United States. You did not hear about it because the MSM did not report it. It was Israel, a tiny nation smaller than major cities of the world, surrounded by oil rich larger states, full of hatred towards it. Israel sent substantial aid, well trained rescue teams and experience medical personnel within a few hours. Did you know that some of the devastated areas refused the help because it was given by Jews? Read Mike's letter, and ponder just why it is that the major news organizations of the world hate Israel. And continue to ponder about whose side they are really on.
How much help was offered by the oil rich Islamic brotherhood nations? When after days, they were finally shamed into coming forth with relief, it was a pittance! Think upon this. Following a week of Muslim bodies washing ashore, Saudi Arabia "pledged" $10 Million, which they have yet to pay! Imagine, this is from the same country that provided $150 Million ($150,000,000 versus $10,000,000) in 2004 alone to families of Palestinian suicide bombers! Kuwait, the second richest Muslim nation, pledged an equally paltry ten million! Did the main stream media tell you about that? NO!
http://www.isralert.com/archives/2005/01/jaaccusea.php
Sunday, January 16, 2005
It is not our fault!
I constantly read comments by young people from Western countries who feel it is wrong for the West to have so much wealth, while in Africa people are dying of hunger and disease. It is wrong for the West to consume as much as we do, as somehow that is the cause of their misery. Of course, they never mention that the greatest causes of death in Africa are AIDs and politically motivated murders. Someone wrote "Doesnt it make you angry? I'm angry today about the state of the world, Ive seen some wierd things recently, I've been and worked in a very poor country this year and coming back to the UK i'm alarmed at what I see. Massive consumption exceesice, it's disgusting people have so much more than they need, whilst people in Africa are dying of disease everyday, It makes me so sad and also so angry, how can we just let it be like this, how can we let the world be in such a mess." I couldn't help responding - they need to be educated.
No it does not make me angry. It makes me grateful for the legacy we received from our forebears. Our wealth comes from our liberal Western beliefs and ideas. Because we consume much has nothing to do with the cause of poverty and death in Africa. In fact, without our riches, which enable us to contribute to their relief, they would be much worse off. Everything that we consume helps someone economically. You say that you feel powerless to help. That is indeed sad, because there is much you could do. However, you will not help the less fortunate and miserable, by killing the goose that lays the golden eggs. So many wonderful ideas of economic freedom were taught by great thinkers of your own country, long ago. Study your history. The nations today that espouse the greatest economic liberalism are the same with the highest per capita incomes. There is a cure for the misery of these unfortunates, and to put it simply, its name is economic freedom. Go forth and teach Africa and other repressed peoples about the marvelous ideas of your own homeland and the Western world and explain to them, that they can become prosperous too. Do that if you truly want to help.
Or help feed and clothe one child in Africa: Christian's Children Fund
No it does not make me angry. It makes me grateful for the legacy we received from our forebears. Our wealth comes from our liberal Western beliefs and ideas. Because we consume much has nothing to do with the cause of poverty and death in Africa. In fact, without our riches, which enable us to contribute to their relief, they would be much worse off. Everything that we consume helps someone economically. You say that you feel powerless to help. That is indeed sad, because there is much you could do. However, you will not help the less fortunate and miserable, by killing the goose that lays the golden eggs. So many wonderful ideas of economic freedom were taught by great thinkers of your own country, long ago. Study your history. The nations today that espouse the greatest economic liberalism are the same with the highest per capita incomes. There is a cure for the misery of these unfortunates, and to put it simply, its name is economic freedom. Go forth and teach Africa and other repressed peoples about the marvelous ideas of your own homeland and the Western world and explain to them, that they can become prosperous too. Do that if you truly want to help.
Or help feed and clothe one child in Africa: Christian's Children Fund
William Saroyan
In the time of your life, live - so that in good times there shall be no ugliness for yourself or for any life your life touches. Seek goodness everywhere, and when it is found, bring it out of its hiding-place and let it be free and unashamed.
Place in matter and in flesh the least of the values, for these are the things that hold death and must pass away. Discover in all things that which shines and is beyond corruption. Encourage virtue in whatever heart it may have been driven into secrecy and sorrow by the shame and terror of the world. Ignore the obvious, for it is unworthy of the clear eye and the kindly heart.
Be the inferior of no man, nor of any man be the superior. Remember that every man is a variation of yourself. No man's guilt is not yours, nor is any man's innocence a thing apart. Despise evil and ungodliness, but not men of ungodliness or evil. These, understand. Have no shame in being kindly and gentle, but if the time comes in the time of your life to kill, kill and have no regret.
In the time of your life, live--so that in that wondrous time you shall not add to the misery and sorrow of the world, but shall smile to the infinite delight and mystery of it. - William Saroyan
Place in matter and in flesh the least of the values, for these are the things that hold death and must pass away. Discover in all things that which shines and is beyond corruption. Encourage virtue in whatever heart it may have been driven into secrecy and sorrow by the shame and terror of the world. Ignore the obvious, for it is unworthy of the clear eye and the kindly heart.
Be the inferior of no man, nor of any man be the superior. Remember that every man is a variation of yourself. No man's guilt is not yours, nor is any man's innocence a thing apart. Despise evil and ungodliness, but not men of ungodliness or evil. These, understand. Have no shame in being kindly and gentle, but if the time comes in the time of your life to kill, kill and have no regret.
In the time of your life, live--so that in that wondrous time you shall not add to the misery and sorrow of the world, but shall smile to the infinite delight and mystery of it. - William Saroyan
Saturday, January 15, 2005
Prince Harry
This is a great article explaining the sensitivities of the British and the Royal Family ala Hitler and the Nazis. Yes, Prince Harry was a dunderhead. He is a Royal it is true, but even young Royal boys can swerve off direction on their road to adulthood. Give 'em a break! He's really just a kid. The true villain is the fellow party patron who surreptitiously photographed Harry at his worst. He/She is the one who is many slices shy of a loaf of integrity and morals, not Harry.
Oh Dear!
Oh Dear!
Inaugural Map
How to find your way to the Inauguration on January 20th.
Too bad that this great map was created by Bush Haters et al who want to disrupt the festivities. However, it can still serve as a guide for the rest of us. No matter how wrong headed politically the creators are, you've certainly got to admire the software implementation of this well-done map containing nine feature layers, four-directional panning, and four different zoom levels. WOW!
How to Smile!
How to be Motivated!
Too bad that this great map was created by Bush Haters et al who want to disrupt the festivities. However, it can still serve as a guide for the rest of us. No matter how wrong headed politically the creators are, you've certainly got to admire the software implementation of this well-done map containing nine feature layers, four-directional panning, and four different zoom levels. WOW!
How to Smile!
How to be Motivated!
Thursday, January 13, 2005
Walk for Life - West Coast
Saturday, January 22, 2005
WOMEN DESERVE BETTER than abortion.
Abortion HURTS: Women, Children, Men, Families, ALL of us!
EVERYONE DESERVES BETTER THAN ABORTION.
~~a message from Feminists for Life of America
Long Time Coming
Homecoming USA is a national celebration, not for our current heroic servicemembers from Iraq, but for the men and women who served and returned from Viet Nam, thirty years ago, without a welcome of any kind. It will be held at Branson, Missouri, June 2005. It's been a long time coming for the Vietnam Band of Brothers.
Wednesday, January 12, 2005
US Marines Disarmed!
Yes it is true. Our Marines were required to disarm in order to aid Tsunami victims according to the Associated Press, January 11, 2005.
ABOARD THE USS BONHOMME RICHARD
In an effort to ease the fears of local officials, Marines participating in the humanitarian mission to help Indonesia recover from the earthquake and tsunami that have killed more than 100,000 people on the island of Sumatra have agreed to leave their weapons behind whenever they go ashore.
For many Marines, that's tantamount to traveling naked.
"They didn't even want us to have protection like helmets and body armor, let alone weapons, because it might look threatening," said Foley, of Erie, Pa. "That's crazy."
His concern isn't unfounded. What do you think? Join the discussion.
Tuesday, January 11, 2005
US Navy and Tsunami Relief
Amelia at American Daughter Blog reminds us to check out the great US Navy pictures of the Tsumani Relief which continues. Here we see the relief work being carried out by the crew of the Carrier USS Abraham Lincoln. Amelia writes "While the Europeans laugh at us dumb Americans for sending an aircraft carrier to a disaster zone, our Navy is providing the clean water that is probably the reason there has been no outbreak of disease. And the UN is still holding meetings and having discussions only. Only the Dutch of the EU have done much of anything. Everything that has been done of any magnitude is STILL the Australians and the US....Bush might say the EU is all hat and no cattle. While their inaction might be understandable, their insults are just not acceptable. And we shall remember,".
Thursday, January 06, 2005
Brenna Cirrus
Welcome to Our World
On the Day of Epiphany, or Old Christmas Day, January 6th, little Brenna Cirrus arrived in the world. She is a fourth generation oldest child. To her father she is a very special little girl. He says that she is especially blessed because she is so loved. She is healthy and beautiful! Little Brenna was a breech baby, but with great praise and gratitude to superior medical care, both she and her mother are well. In earlier generations, likely neither would have survived the birth. Here is the little miracle within minutes of her birth.
Wednesday, January 05, 2005
Old Christmas Eve
The Eve of Epiphany
Today, the Eve of Epiphany, was Old Christmas Eve to the pioneer mountain folk of Appalachia. On this night they knew the Holy Spirit to be abroad in the land, with manifestations unknown at any other time or season. At the exact stroke of midnight, when Old Christmas begins, God's lowly beasts and creatures around the world begin to pray. We may hear them if we quietly listen. We hear their soft animal crys of praise to God if we listen with faith. We understand their words if we listen with our hearts. For in Bethlehem, so long ago, the beasts of the stable witnessed the birth of Mary's son, and they were present when God revealed the Christ Child to the three king seekers.
Today, people no longer celebrate Old Christmas. However, wondrous happenings can still be witnessed by those bravehearts who seek to find the truth for themselves, on Old Christmas Eve. ~~Neddy
When they had heard the king they went their way; and lo, the star which they had seen in the East went before them, till it came to rest over the place where the child was. When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy; and going into the house they saw the child with Mary his mother, and they fell down and worshiped him. Then, opening their treasures, they offered him gifts, gold and frankincense and myrrh. ~~Matthew 2: 9-11
Tuesday, January 04, 2005
Old Iraqi Church circa 500s
This very interesting sixth century edifice is the oldest Christian church in Iraq. It is located in Tikrit, and American soldiers attended mid-night mass there on Christmas, according to Brad at Brad's life in Iraq. He has a larger image available at his site.
Monday, January 03, 2005
John Donne (1572 -1631)
"No man is an island, entire of itself; every man is a piece of the continent, a part of the main. If a clod be washed away by the sea, Europe is the less, as well as if a promontory were, as well as if a manor of thy friend's or of thine own were. Any man's death diminishes me because I am involved in mankind; and therefore never send to know for whom the bell tolls; it tolls for thee…" (Meditation 17, 1624)
The 10th Day of Christmas
January 3, Feast of the Holy Name of Jesus
That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. Philippians 2: 10,11
That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. Philippians 2: 10,11
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