As reported by Dan DeWitt, columnist of Hernando Times, a series of grapevine gossip caused him embarrassment when calling Mary Ann DeWitt to offer condolences for the passing away of her husband Bob DeWitt, soon to leave his volunteer post on the Planning and Zoning Board. Oh, what a relief it must have been to recant misbegotten information! Unfortunately, the grapevine couldn’t be traced from the immediate source of the information, Anna Lisa Covell, who in turn had heard it from Anthony Palmieri.
Hold it right there! All three are on the P&Z department, right? And all three are retiring, again as informed from the reporting of Dan DeWitt, right? And there was some “supposed” misunderstanding about the living dead man amongst Palmieri and Covell, right?
Sounds like a practical joke to me! I don’t think it’s fair to Bob DeWitt to be the brunt of the “mishap” but, fortunately, Bob is an easy-going guy and shrugged it off with humor.
But, what might we expect next? Is there a tit-for-tat in the making from Bob? This may prove to be insightful on my part but, in the meantime, who will be the “source” of the rumor? In retaliation of the band of two, I might suggest that Mary Ann DeWitt join forces with Bob and send a tasty grape about the other two through the vine, but place the roots of the news too far buried to verify the true source.
As touched on Dan DeWitt in his column titled “News of his demise is spun by the Web”, seeking the source of information isn’t easily available from a reputable, recognized source. The perfect example in today’s technology is the Web, just as Dan wrote.
When looking for information on a given topic of interest, I quickly learned how very questionable many sites are. The first telltale signal is a perceived slant of a political view as put forth by the writer, especially when basic prior information conflicts with another source. I entrust my belief in the honesty of journalism to prominent newspapers and magazines. If I want different views on a subject, all I have to do is switch from one cable news station to another.
Blogs, each of mine included, should be viewed as suspect of accuracy. I think I do an honest job of providing a little bit of known knowledge on a subject, enhance it with information from Web searches to a number of official news services and organizations then make my own comments, which I attempt to be creative and/or humorous, if not at least recognized as well-written.
I don’t document where I retrieve information, other than jotting down the site and the information I was looking for and tossed in the trash once the blog entry has been published. If in doubt, I go to two, three or maybe be more sites when there are too many discrepancies with facts and figures. Forbes. Reuters. Bloomberg. Local, state, federal and international governments. These are just a few of my “Favorite Links”, plus sites of various corporations, universities and research groups.
Let me just leave it this way: no more Dan DeWitts writing about any Bob DeWitts from sources who turn out to be half-wits. Just the facts... please, just the facts.
Sunday, December 21, 2008
Monday, December 15, 2008
Where's My Newspapers?
It seems that on a daily basis I go through a series of whiplashes as one business after another either seeks the temporary shelter of Chapter 11 or, worst of all, going out of business entirely. Whiz – there goes another one, not necessarily a name I’ve ever heard but turns out to be another significant cog in the wheel of misfortune of the economic crisis.
Whiz, whiz, whiz – one failure along side a dozen others and I’ve got a very severe crick in my neck. If I should close my eyes to escape the worsening affects of a demoralized business atmosphere, the winds of change won’t shelter my senses from the inevitable bad news.
Over the past few years, newspaper readership has steadily declined, thanks to the ever-flowing streams of data on the Internet. As circulation decreases so do advertising dollars and subscription increases would result in further deterioration of incoming revenues, the announcement that The Tribune Co (L A Times and Chicago Tribune) are biting the bitter bullet of its own filing of bankruptcy. At one time each of these newspapers greeting me every morning at the front door – an entry door to the ways and means of the world.
I’m nearly distraught at the thought that my current subscriptions are in jeopardy. The St. Pete Times and it’s driveway sidekick The New York Times - I dread the thought of loosing touch of local, national and worldly news at my fingertips.
What next? The demise of other publications? The Economist, Time, Discover, Business Week, etc., may one day no longer fill my mailbox with their individual in-depth reporting.
I say with determination that I will never rely on the Inet to gather news as I see fit to read. It’s all time-consuming and cumbersome in the scope of sifting through pop-ups and countless clicking to find items of interest. Generally speaking, an item of importance can be supplemented with information on the Inet but I don’t foresee a day when I will accept this as a primary source of news; I can’t take it with me or save articles for leisurely reading at a later time. Cable news is too extreme with lop-sided viewpoints.
What would I do without the Hernando Times? Days without Dan DeWitt? The loss of being informed on community affairs? I get distraught at the very thought.
I don’t anticipate an immediate loss of newsprint smudges around the house but one day I may have no choice but to accept the loss of the free press as I define it.
Whiz, whiz, whiz – one failure along side a dozen others and I’ve got a very severe crick in my neck. If I should close my eyes to escape the worsening affects of a demoralized business atmosphere, the winds of change won’t shelter my senses from the inevitable bad news.
Over the past few years, newspaper readership has steadily declined, thanks to the ever-flowing streams of data on the Internet. As circulation decreases so do advertising dollars and subscription increases would result in further deterioration of incoming revenues, the announcement that The Tribune Co (L A Times and Chicago Tribune) are biting the bitter bullet of its own filing of bankruptcy. At one time each of these newspapers greeting me every morning at the front door – an entry door to the ways and means of the world.
I’m nearly distraught at the thought that my current subscriptions are in jeopardy. The St. Pete Times and it’s driveway sidekick The New York Times - I dread the thought of loosing touch of local, national and worldly news at my fingertips.
What next? The demise of other publications? The Economist, Time, Discover, Business Week, etc., may one day no longer fill my mailbox with their individual in-depth reporting.
I say with determination that I will never rely on the Inet to gather news as I see fit to read. It’s all time-consuming and cumbersome in the scope of sifting through pop-ups and countless clicking to find items of interest. Generally speaking, an item of importance can be supplemented with information on the Inet but I don’t foresee a day when I will accept this as a primary source of news; I can’t take it with me or save articles for leisurely reading at a later time. Cable news is too extreme with lop-sided viewpoints.
What would I do without the Hernando Times? Days without Dan DeWitt? The loss of being informed on community affairs? I get distraught at the very thought.
I don’t anticipate an immediate loss of newsprint smudges around the house but one day I may have no choice but to accept the loss of the free press as I define it.
Friday, November 28, 2008
A Spring of Life
On November 1, 2008, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection became the proud owner of Weeki Wachee Springs, the latest of the 161 parks in the State Park Service. The deal had been signed on February 18 for a couple of ‘fins’!
Ten bucks and what do you get? Breathing room for “The Only City With Live Mermaids”! After nearly three decades of declining tourism, thanks to Disney and other exotic attractions, the survival of the Springs has ‘sprung’ back to life.
In celebration, bring out the bubbly! through air hoses, giving life support to those wide-tailed beauties!
The depth of the Springs, at 403 feet, is considered the deepest of known natural springs in the United States. Some changes can be expected with the removal of the water slide and a review of the boat ride. Safety and environmental concerns of the Southwest Florida Water Management District, SFWMD or Swiftmud, were factors in the lengthy legal battle with the previous owners of the Springs.
The Springs may never reach the popularity it once had in the 50s and 60s but there’s a strong belief that, with the State Park Service in control, it will be rehabilitated to a newfound glory with Buccaneer Bay, Florida’ only spring-fed waterpark, providing visitors with fun in the sun with its white sandy beaches.
The State can’t do much about the declining water level, which in the past pumped 117 million gallons of 72-degree water from the depths of the Florida Aquifer, but there’ll come a day when Weeki Wachee will be as glorious as Wekiva Springs in Apopka, Florida. Such is my belief, albeit with a unique character of its own.
Just as Blue Springs State Park, in Orange City, and Wekiva, manatees are an attraction in themselves. Big and cumbersome in appearance and endangered by the ways of humans, they’re such lovable creatures, especially when seen lolling about with their young. Such was a sight I witnessed with inspiration and a sense of peace and harmony. Another wonder of Mother nature!
And here I sit with guilt that, as yet, I haven’t taken the time to visit Weeki Wachee. After living in Florida in excess of half my 58 years of life, I’ve not made a trip to Key West. With a personal commitment, this won’t be the case with the Springs located a mere five miles from my home. Shameful.
We should all be honored that Weeki Wachee Springs is safe, secure and reassured that the “Only City With Live Mermaids” will continue to be one of most treasured gifts to Hernando County, knowing the grace and beauty of those aquatic wonders will keep those fins a-flappin’.
Ten bucks and what do you get? Breathing room for “The Only City With Live Mermaids”! After nearly three decades of declining tourism, thanks to Disney and other exotic attractions, the survival of the Springs has ‘sprung’ back to life.
In celebration, bring out the bubbly! through air hoses, giving life support to those wide-tailed beauties!
The depth of the Springs, at 403 feet, is considered the deepest of known natural springs in the United States. Some changes can be expected with the removal of the water slide and a review of the boat ride. Safety and environmental concerns of the Southwest Florida Water Management District, SFWMD or Swiftmud, were factors in the lengthy legal battle with the previous owners of the Springs.
The Springs may never reach the popularity it once had in the 50s and 60s but there’s a strong belief that, with the State Park Service in control, it will be rehabilitated to a newfound glory with Buccaneer Bay, Florida’ only spring-fed waterpark, providing visitors with fun in the sun with its white sandy beaches.
The State can’t do much about the declining water level, which in the past pumped 117 million gallons of 72-degree water from the depths of the Florida Aquifer, but there’ll come a day when Weeki Wachee will be as glorious as Wekiva Springs in Apopka, Florida. Such is my belief, albeit with a unique character of its own.
Just as Blue Springs State Park, in Orange City, and Wekiva, manatees are an attraction in themselves. Big and cumbersome in appearance and endangered by the ways of humans, they’re such lovable creatures, especially when seen lolling about with their young. Such was a sight I witnessed with inspiration and a sense of peace and harmony. Another wonder of Mother nature!
And here I sit with guilt that, as yet, I haven’t taken the time to visit Weeki Wachee. After living in Florida in excess of half my 58 years of life, I’ve not made a trip to Key West. With a personal commitment, this won’t be the case with the Springs located a mere five miles from my home. Shameful.
We should all be honored that Weeki Wachee Springs is safe, secure and reassured that the “Only City With Live Mermaids” will continue to be one of most treasured gifts to Hernando County, knowing the grace and beauty of those aquatic wonders will keep those fins a-flappin’.
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
A Rose Is Still A Rose
In every election there are disappoints whether it be the a national, state or local candidate. The broadest perspective places the voting for the President of the United States of more importance than all other political contests, followed by other national contests, namely Congressional races.
Getting closer to home, the selection of state representatives will shape the direction of where and how taxpayer dollars will be spent.
It’s the local elections that can make the biggest difference in the next four years. County and city candidates have a large control of the landscape of your daily living and what the view outside your front door will be.
In my singular opinion, there’s a sense of regret that the most outspoken and un-molded personality will no longer be among the Hernando County Board of County Commissioners.
Although I fail to understand the importance of the political party affiliation of local officials, it’s the branding of the reds and blues of elected representatives that gives me cause to pause and dwell on the implications that will follow the two defeated Democrats, Chris Kingsley and Diane Rowden. Their lives will go on as will that of the rest of us and yet there’s a sense of loss that’ll bring a time of adjustment.
Chris is an exceptional neighborhood friend and has been considerate of issues most important to constituents. I’ve taken a bit of interest in the goings on in the County these past two years, since Election Day 2006, and feel a loss for what will be his lack of input in making local decisions. His vocal inquiries at County hearings always seemed timely and appropriate.
Diane is a woman consistently vocal in her opinions, taking issue with unabashed determination to make her individuality something of contention to get down to the nitty gritty. Chances have often been 4 to 1 that her viewpoints would be different from the mold of special interests. She hasn’t always displayed the kindest of expressions but, while some people have expressed a certain dislike (without giving specifics because they’re “too numerous”), others have placed her among the best at listening, responding and taking action when warranted.
Diane has been the sole Board member consistently expressing a concern about the too often acceptance of one development after another. I’m talking the Hickory, the Sunrise and the Hideaway decisions. Those decisions are not what I call “forward thinking”. S.O.S.O comes to mind.
Jeff Stabins, in spite of running as a Republican, which I write in jest, remains fully seated for the next four years. He’s still my District 1 Manager, so to speak. Actually, I’d be pleased to nominate his placement as permanent Chairman with his quirky comments and, at times, attire. Nonetheless, he has a mind of his own and makes it known.
Change is good, otherwise this great nation wouldn’t be the leader of this planet called Earth.
I was more in line with the recommendations of the Hernando Times than Hernando Today on local candidates but on this Day 1 after the General Election all is not lost to the past.
James Adkins and John Druzbik will join the Board alongside Rose Rocco and David Russell. Congratulations to both. Whatever influence on future changes in the County, no one can doubt their sincere goals to make Hernando a better community.
I can’t help but make reference to Rose. She must feel the lonely one. She’s a minority of 1 times 2 – a woman and a Democrat. Stand firm, dear lady. Two years on may bring an opponent too familiar to the Board – a Republican man. Stand firm, indeed!
Getting closer to home, the selection of state representatives will shape the direction of where and how taxpayer dollars will be spent.
It’s the local elections that can make the biggest difference in the next four years. County and city candidates have a large control of the landscape of your daily living and what the view outside your front door will be.
In my singular opinion, there’s a sense of regret that the most outspoken and un-molded personality will no longer be among the Hernando County Board of County Commissioners.
Although I fail to understand the importance of the political party affiliation of local officials, it’s the branding of the reds and blues of elected representatives that gives me cause to pause and dwell on the implications that will follow the two defeated Democrats, Chris Kingsley and Diane Rowden. Their lives will go on as will that of the rest of us and yet there’s a sense of loss that’ll bring a time of adjustment.
Chris is an exceptional neighborhood friend and has been considerate of issues most important to constituents. I’ve taken a bit of interest in the goings on in the County these past two years, since Election Day 2006, and feel a loss for what will be his lack of input in making local decisions. His vocal inquiries at County hearings always seemed timely and appropriate.
Diane is a woman consistently vocal in her opinions, taking issue with unabashed determination to make her individuality something of contention to get down to the nitty gritty. Chances have often been 4 to 1 that her viewpoints would be different from the mold of special interests. She hasn’t always displayed the kindest of expressions but, while some people have expressed a certain dislike (without giving specifics because they’re “too numerous”), others have placed her among the best at listening, responding and taking action when warranted.
Diane has been the sole Board member consistently expressing a concern about the too often acceptance of one development after another. I’m talking the Hickory, the Sunrise and the Hideaway decisions. Those decisions are not what I call “forward thinking”. S.O.S.O comes to mind.
Jeff Stabins, in spite of running as a Republican, which I write in jest, remains fully seated for the next four years. He’s still my District 1 Manager, so to speak. Actually, I’d be pleased to nominate his placement as permanent Chairman with his quirky comments and, at times, attire. Nonetheless, he has a mind of his own and makes it known.
Change is good, otherwise this great nation wouldn’t be the leader of this planet called Earth.
I was more in line with the recommendations of the Hernando Times than Hernando Today on local candidates but on this Day 1 after the General Election all is not lost to the past.
James Adkins and John Druzbik will join the Board alongside Rose Rocco and David Russell. Congratulations to both. Whatever influence on future changes in the County, no one can doubt their sincere goals to make Hernando a better community.
I can’t help but make reference to Rose. She must feel the lonely one. She’s a minority of 1 times 2 – a woman and a Democrat. Stand firm, dear lady. Two years on may bring an opponent too familiar to the Board – a Republican man. Stand firm, indeed!
Friday, October 24, 2008
Join Me In My Press Box
Extra!! Extra!! Read all about it!
My reporters are quick on the draw with pens in hand jotting down notes as they interview each and every one of their sources for personal viewpoints. And every story is handled with expertise, as anyone would expect of seasoned professionals. They take newsworthy tips with vigor, clarifying the stories as they question their sources so as not to misrepresent their daily tidbits.
The printed words come in daily sections of the Early Edition, Hernando Today and a section for Health and Beauty advice as some readers need a little clarification on what the paper has to offer for their personal well-being. The Foreign Affairs section is particularly intriguing with for the layers of tidbits to pick and choose from, some of them worthy of consideration as the individual decides what will be of their best interest.
The Mid Day Express is another section, along with the Sunrise or Sunset Editions) but there’s an array of options to keep the reader busy trying to decide which activity will fulfill the day’s needs. By Lunch, it’s a wrap-up but the Evening News is still a great read, hearty and full of the good stuff you can sink yourself into.
You can't go wrong in The Classifieds section and its listed opportunities.
Wes and Donna are the publishers. They’re kind and attentive to the reporters, each of who have already proven their worthiness for the positions they hold. Talk about dedication to the printed word! If they were any more attentive to the words, and the verbal interest of the readers, you’d think they were clairvoyant!
Reportes include Jackie, Nancy and Wes, Jr…. and then there’s Sara who told me, “Get the “h” out of there!” in reference to the spelling of her name! But, yes, she was right on!, accuracy is always first and foremost, right next to making the sure the reader is 100% satisfied. Regardless, each of them are whizzin’ about, doing their jobs with the degree of professionalism that every reporter should attain.
So, I’m the critic as I linger in a booth, not so much judging the bearer of good service but the knowledge that whatever my plate should hold, it’ll be good eatin’ to my palate.
The Press Box is on Mariner just south of Elgin “sandwiched” between a convenient store and an Italian icemaker.
The eatin’s good, to say the least; the service is among the best; prices are easy to digest.
My press box is The Press Box.
My reporters are quick on the draw with pens in hand jotting down notes as they interview each and every one of their sources for personal viewpoints. And every story is handled with expertise, as anyone would expect of seasoned professionals. They take newsworthy tips with vigor, clarifying the stories as they question their sources so as not to misrepresent their daily tidbits.
The printed words come in daily sections of the Early Edition, Hernando Today and a section for Health and Beauty advice as some readers need a little clarification on what the paper has to offer for their personal well-being. The Foreign Affairs section is particularly intriguing with for the layers of tidbits to pick and choose from, some of them worthy of consideration as the individual decides what will be of their best interest.
The Mid Day Express is another section, along with the Sunrise or Sunset Editions) but there’s an array of options to keep the reader busy trying to decide which activity will fulfill the day’s needs. By Lunch, it’s a wrap-up but the Evening News is still a great read, hearty and full of the good stuff you can sink yourself into.
You can't go wrong in The Classifieds section and its listed opportunities.
Wes and Donna are the publishers. They’re kind and attentive to the reporters, each of who have already proven their worthiness for the positions they hold. Talk about dedication to the printed word! If they were any more attentive to the words, and the verbal interest of the readers, you’d think they were clairvoyant!
Reportes include Jackie, Nancy and Wes, Jr…. and then there’s Sara who told me, “Get the “h” out of there!” in reference to the spelling of her name! But, yes, she was right on!, accuracy is always first and foremost, right next to making the sure the reader is 100% satisfied. Regardless, each of them are whizzin’ about, doing their jobs with the degree of professionalism that every reporter should attain.
So, I’m the critic as I linger in a booth, not so much judging the bearer of good service but the knowledge that whatever my plate should hold, it’ll be good eatin’ to my palate.
The Press Box is on Mariner just south of Elgin “sandwiched” between a convenient store and an Italian icemaker.
The eatin’s good, to say the least; the service is among the best; prices are easy to digest.
My press box is The Press Box.
God Hates Gays? What Of Straying Sheep?
In response to Hernando Today’s Guest Column of October 23rd, “Amendment 2 Won’t Correct Genetic Anomaly; Vote ‘No’”, an on-line opinion espoused, “You should know God hates Gays!!”
God hates Gays?
The comment deserves to be worded as "god HATES gays". It's a very small god that embraces hate in a world created by Him.
Supporters of Amendment 2 are unable to articulate anything other than what’s been expressed time and again by every like-minded conservative extremist. They go around in circles to avoid addressing the affects that the passage of Amendment 2 will have on all partners of domestic nature.
"You have the same freedom to marry, etc that all Floridians do" ... is a trumpet song from the ultra-conservative that says it's okay for a gay man and a gay woman to wed and do as they may... perhaps consummate the holy matrimony to have a baby, or adopt an infant, and raise the child as they will... with each of them having their own same sex partner. Very communal.
Homosexuals do not make attempts to force their lifestyle on anyone; they are not
homogeneous to their lifestyle. They are more astute to an individual's needs than are most legally married/divorced non-gays. Gay parents can impress upon their young to consider all viewpoints on religion and politics, which don't mix any better than oil and vinegar, unless the far right shakes 'em up in a frenzy, giving the concoction an appearance of legitimacy when in fact it's an act of collusion.
Because of being chastised and, gays are more astute to giving a more rounded view of the different classes of people and their beliefs that would otherwise be impressed upon them by partisan minds. Gays have broader insights on social awareness than most other minority groups.
There's much more riff raff in traditional marriages than domestic partnerships, putting children at a disadvantage to learning skills and dropping out of school, thus society, than others.
Amendment 2 isn't just about a man and a woman and marriage
Conservatives demand rights to the unborn living, but what of the undead living in poverty, starved for love and nourishment, in poor health with no means to care for life-threatening ailments, abused by health care professionals and ignored by society?The politics of government assures that bureaucracy will continue to leave millions without medical, and mental, treatments thus wasting taxpayer money. Neither presidential candidate can afford taxpayers the medical bills necessary to provide effective health care to every American.
"True believers", as they may call themselves, should become noble saviors to the unfortunate.
They got the moneyThe Church is very rich. It's virtually impossible to find information on the figures that represent the worth of religious groups, although it's easily imagined that it amounts to trillions of dollars.
A Boston Cardinal's home on a 60-acre urban site with a chancery and a seminary is worth $130,000,000.
The Boston Diocese owns a $31,000,000 television station.
The 75-acre estate at the Aldrich Mansion and owned by the Boston Diocese is valued at
$22,000,000. It's rented out for parties.
The Detroit Diocese owns a golf course and conference center: $18,000,000.
A Chicago Cardinal's home is worth $10,000,000.
These are just a few examples of the assets held by the little guys within the Catholic Church. It must be chump change to the riches held by the Vatican and the amounts of money held by other denominational churches.
Give, give, give then give some more
A tithing increase to 15 to 20% could provide massive funds toward saving souls. Love and charity comes from where the money rolls. Yet, Christians only give about 2.5% of their income to churches, not the recommended 10% gratuity. Up the ante for goodwill toward all destitute men, women and children! What value are parishioners willing to place on their salvation toward the betterment of their fellow men, women and children?When faithful followers ask questions about tithing, the pastor will likely avoid the issue. Or, as can also happen, a wife may seek guidance on tithing because a meager salary of less than $6.00 per hour isn't enough to raise a child and provide insulin to her gravely ill husband.
A response unbecoming of spiritual guidance often leads to scripture Malachi 3:10: "Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse … and test me now in this, says the Lord of hosts. If I will not open for you the windows of heaven and pour out for you a blessing until it overflows."The holy man told the woman that she would be cursed without tithing. His words meant for her to hand over dollars, leaving pennies in her hand. A forsaken soul, a lost parishioner.
Churches pay out the dough for litigation, don't you know?
The poor man's contributions have, for years, been used in sex abuse settlements.
The Diocese of St. George sold assets toward a $14 million settlement for the abuse of boys by Rev. Kevin Bennett.
A $7.89M settlement with 15 men was rendered for the sexual abuses of Rev. James McGreal of the Archdiocese of Seattle over a 20-year period. He had served in 10 parishes and 2 Catholic hospitals during that period of time. Of the settlement, $6.89 million was covered by with five insurance carriers and the remainder came from the archdiocese self-insurance program.
In 2003, the Boston Archdiocese paid out a whopping $85M to 552 people sexually abused by clergy. This was the largest settlement in history but by the end of 2002 the church had already paid out over $100M.
In December 2002, Pope John Paul II accepted the resignation of Cardinal Bernard F. Law. Although he hadn't been involved in the abuses, Law admitted his failure at protecting the young and innocent. Pope John Paul II accepted his resignation.
By the end of 2002, over 1200 priests were accused of sexual abuse in the United States. Many of the abused began in the 1940's. Multiply 1200 priests x 62 years = way too many criminal abuses on way too many children's lives, over 70-thousand per year... minimum.
The morals of The Church are always in question. Their deeds are good but only when done for the good of all. The Church has squandered its charitable contributions and poorly distributed them. It has led the most innocent astray and rewarded it’s sinful ministries with freedom to once again pursue.
Estimates put the cost to the Catholic Church in 2002 at $1.5B!
The passage of Amendment 2 will see throngs of lawyers in love with the hourly rates for a lengthy period of more litigation. With moneys that should be spent resolving the sad affairs of destitute people, which is apparently of less concern to The Church.
Everybody looses
In 2003, the Archdiocese of Louisville, Kentucky, paid out over $30M in settlements and legal and medical bills. Some had called for the resignation of Archbishop Thomas C. Kelly who had kept priests in the ministry even though he was aware they had abused minors. Cover-ups and reassignments kept these deeds hidden for decades.
One parishioner, Cathy Stone, then 78, commented on Kelly, "I think the good he's done outweighs the things he let slide. Nobody is perfect." How forgiving of her.
A total of 243 plaintiffs, mostly men, had endured childhoods that left them emotionally scarred. Many of the abuses had occurred in the 1940's before parishes began carrying litigation insurance so the settlement came from church funds, affecting charities, soup kitchens for the hungry and poor, the deaf, those with drug addiction, and the homeless.
How forgiving of Cathy Stone, indeed. Archbishop Kelly left the church in 2007 for retirement.
“Homosexuals are an abomination!” No more so than are predators within The Church and those who lied under God’s temples in denial of these sins.
These crimes aren't exclusive to the Catholic Church but the fortunes spent on litigation rather than toward social consciousness are enormous. The worth of organized religion is unknown. Annual statements aren’t shared - this may be the only example of separation of Church and State.
The world of religion has wealth in trillions upon trillions of dollars. Perhaps godzillions?
The right remains speechless
Those in favor of Amendment 2 continue to ignore questions and comments that put their moral standards on the grandstand of judgment, just as they judge others.
There is still the question as to how determined the religious right is willing to express their dislike of gays. What of companies that provide domestic partner coverage? Do religious convictions become less ethereal when earthly needs and desires override beliefs? Will the truly devout embrace their creed and forsake giving legitimacy to businesses that provide corporate-enforced recognition of homosexual behavior and give benefits to heterosexuals living outside the sanctity of marriage?Or will they stand by with no conviction? Pick and choose as they will, it is they who will surely continue to give-in to the temptation of material goods and services, regardless the source of religious contempt.
What of neighbors, friends, relatives and businesses that have gay members within their realm of acceptance? Are they treated with contempt, as are the targets of their hatred?
What if same-sex marriages were legal, which they aren't? Would those couples be a threat to the unions of the accepted definition of holy matrimony? It's entirely possible that gay marriages would have fewer divorce rates. For sure, there would be no higher infidelity amoung their numbers.
Just as with politicians, the religious tend to skirt the issues, an apparel not in my wardrobe.
Getting’ down to the skivvies
Amendment 2 is much more than just about banning marriage of same-sex, domestic partner or any two people dependent upon one another, including elderly couples. The unintended aftermath of passage of the Amendment will put into jeopardy the health and well-being of countless men, women and children.
The Amendment brings into question the role that The Church is willing to take for those desperately in need, not just those who have wants in their own denominations. Can organized religion uphold the integrity of God through good will toward all men and women?
People shouldn't have to beg, plead or cry to Heaven when this Earthly life treads hard on their souls.
To paraphrase a statement that most of us heard in our youth, If the Church spent as much time and money as it does to goad people into voting Yes on Amendment 2, millions of people would be much better off than they are.
God hates gays? God does not hate. Man hates. Man is not god.
God hates Gays?
The comment deserves to be worded as "god HATES gays". It's a very small god that embraces hate in a world created by Him.
Supporters of Amendment 2 are unable to articulate anything other than what’s been expressed time and again by every like-minded conservative extremist. They go around in circles to avoid addressing the affects that the passage of Amendment 2 will have on all partners of domestic nature.
"You have the same freedom to marry, etc that all Floridians do" ... is a trumpet song from the ultra-conservative that says it's okay for a gay man and a gay woman to wed and do as they may... perhaps consummate the holy matrimony to have a baby, or adopt an infant, and raise the child as they will... with each of them having their own same sex partner. Very communal.
Homosexuals do not make attempts to force their lifestyle on anyone; they are not
homogeneous to their lifestyle. They are more astute to an individual's needs than are most legally married/divorced non-gays. Gay parents can impress upon their young to consider all viewpoints on religion and politics, which don't mix any better than oil and vinegar, unless the far right shakes 'em up in a frenzy, giving the concoction an appearance of legitimacy when in fact it's an act of collusion.
Because of being chastised and, gays are more astute to giving a more rounded view of the different classes of people and their beliefs that would otherwise be impressed upon them by partisan minds. Gays have broader insights on social awareness than most other minority groups.
There's much more riff raff in traditional marriages than domestic partnerships, putting children at a disadvantage to learning skills and dropping out of school, thus society, than others.
Amendment 2 isn't just about a man and a woman and marriage
Conservatives demand rights to the unborn living, but what of the undead living in poverty, starved for love and nourishment, in poor health with no means to care for life-threatening ailments, abused by health care professionals and ignored by society?The politics of government assures that bureaucracy will continue to leave millions without medical, and mental, treatments thus wasting taxpayer money. Neither presidential candidate can afford taxpayers the medical bills necessary to provide effective health care to every American.
"True believers", as they may call themselves, should become noble saviors to the unfortunate.
They got the moneyThe Church is very rich. It's virtually impossible to find information on the figures that represent the worth of religious groups, although it's easily imagined that it amounts to trillions of dollars.
A Boston Cardinal's home on a 60-acre urban site with a chancery and a seminary is worth $130,000,000.
The Boston Diocese owns a $31,000,000 television station.
The 75-acre estate at the Aldrich Mansion and owned by the Boston Diocese is valued at
$22,000,000. It's rented out for parties.
The Detroit Diocese owns a golf course and conference center: $18,000,000.
A Chicago Cardinal's home is worth $10,000,000.
These are just a few examples of the assets held by the little guys within the Catholic Church. It must be chump change to the riches held by the Vatican and the amounts of money held by other denominational churches.
Give, give, give then give some more
A tithing increase to 15 to 20% could provide massive funds toward saving souls. Love and charity comes from where the money rolls. Yet, Christians only give about 2.5% of their income to churches, not the recommended 10% gratuity. Up the ante for goodwill toward all destitute men, women and children! What value are parishioners willing to place on their salvation toward the betterment of their fellow men, women and children?When faithful followers ask questions about tithing, the pastor will likely avoid the issue. Or, as can also happen, a wife may seek guidance on tithing because a meager salary of less than $6.00 per hour isn't enough to raise a child and provide insulin to her gravely ill husband.
A response unbecoming of spiritual guidance often leads to scripture Malachi 3:10: "Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse … and test me now in this, says the Lord of hosts. If I will not open for you the windows of heaven and pour out for you a blessing until it overflows."The holy man told the woman that she would be cursed without tithing. His words meant for her to hand over dollars, leaving pennies in her hand. A forsaken soul, a lost parishioner.
Churches pay out the dough for litigation, don't you know?
The poor man's contributions have, for years, been used in sex abuse settlements.
The Diocese of St. George sold assets toward a $14 million settlement for the abuse of boys by Rev. Kevin Bennett.
A $7.89M settlement with 15 men was rendered for the sexual abuses of Rev. James McGreal of the Archdiocese of Seattle over a 20-year period. He had served in 10 parishes and 2 Catholic hospitals during that period of time. Of the settlement, $6.89 million was covered by with five insurance carriers and the remainder came from the archdiocese self-insurance program.
In 2003, the Boston Archdiocese paid out a whopping $85M to 552 people sexually abused by clergy. This was the largest settlement in history but by the end of 2002 the church had already paid out over $100M.
In December 2002, Pope John Paul II accepted the resignation of Cardinal Bernard F. Law. Although he hadn't been involved in the abuses, Law admitted his failure at protecting the young and innocent. Pope John Paul II accepted his resignation.
By the end of 2002, over 1200 priests were accused of sexual abuse in the United States. Many of the abused began in the 1940's. Multiply 1200 priests x 62 years = way too many criminal abuses on way too many children's lives, over 70-thousand per year... minimum.
The morals of The Church are always in question. Their deeds are good but only when done for the good of all. The Church has squandered its charitable contributions and poorly distributed them. It has led the most innocent astray and rewarded it’s sinful ministries with freedom to once again pursue.
Estimates put the cost to the Catholic Church in 2002 at $1.5B!
The passage of Amendment 2 will see throngs of lawyers in love with the hourly rates for a lengthy period of more litigation. With moneys that should be spent resolving the sad affairs of destitute people, which is apparently of less concern to The Church.
Everybody looses
In 2003, the Archdiocese of Louisville, Kentucky, paid out over $30M in settlements and legal and medical bills. Some had called for the resignation of Archbishop Thomas C. Kelly who had kept priests in the ministry even though he was aware they had abused minors. Cover-ups and reassignments kept these deeds hidden for decades.
One parishioner, Cathy Stone, then 78, commented on Kelly, "I think the good he's done outweighs the things he let slide. Nobody is perfect." How forgiving of her.
A total of 243 plaintiffs, mostly men, had endured childhoods that left them emotionally scarred. Many of the abuses had occurred in the 1940's before parishes began carrying litigation insurance so the settlement came from church funds, affecting charities, soup kitchens for the hungry and poor, the deaf, those with drug addiction, and the homeless.
How forgiving of Cathy Stone, indeed. Archbishop Kelly left the church in 2007 for retirement.
“Homosexuals are an abomination!” No more so than are predators within The Church and those who lied under God’s temples in denial of these sins.
These crimes aren't exclusive to the Catholic Church but the fortunes spent on litigation rather than toward social consciousness are enormous. The worth of organized religion is unknown. Annual statements aren’t shared - this may be the only example of separation of Church and State.
The world of religion has wealth in trillions upon trillions of dollars. Perhaps godzillions?
The right remains speechless
Those in favor of Amendment 2 continue to ignore questions and comments that put their moral standards on the grandstand of judgment, just as they judge others.
There is still the question as to how determined the religious right is willing to express their dislike of gays. What of companies that provide domestic partner coverage? Do religious convictions become less ethereal when earthly needs and desires override beliefs? Will the truly devout embrace their creed and forsake giving legitimacy to businesses that provide corporate-enforced recognition of homosexual behavior and give benefits to heterosexuals living outside the sanctity of marriage?Or will they stand by with no conviction? Pick and choose as they will, it is they who will surely continue to give-in to the temptation of material goods and services, regardless the source of religious contempt.
What of neighbors, friends, relatives and businesses that have gay members within their realm of acceptance? Are they treated with contempt, as are the targets of their hatred?
What if same-sex marriages were legal, which they aren't? Would those couples be a threat to the unions of the accepted definition of holy matrimony? It's entirely possible that gay marriages would have fewer divorce rates. For sure, there would be no higher infidelity amoung their numbers.
Just as with politicians, the religious tend to skirt the issues, an apparel not in my wardrobe.
Getting’ down to the skivvies
Amendment 2 is much more than just about banning marriage of same-sex, domestic partner or any two people dependent upon one another, including elderly couples. The unintended aftermath of passage of the Amendment will put into jeopardy the health and well-being of countless men, women and children.
The Amendment brings into question the role that The Church is willing to take for those desperately in need, not just those who have wants in their own denominations. Can organized religion uphold the integrity of God through good will toward all men and women?
People shouldn't have to beg, plead or cry to Heaven when this Earthly life treads hard on their souls.
To paraphrase a statement that most of us heard in our youth, If the Church spent as much time and money as it does to goad people into voting Yes on Amendment 2, millions of people would be much better off than they are.
God hates gays? God does not hate. Man hates. Man is not god.
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Piddle Drips
A fine mist to those who believe that, if it weren’t for the County Commissioners of the past four years and more, there would have been a different scenario than what has been the tendency to spend beyond fiscal responsibility. Nearly every local, state and federal government has taken part in spending easy moneys garnered from taxpayers.
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A good spraying to Charlie Crist for his absenteeism of governing Florida to resolve issues most worrisome to its residents. His spotlight faded as he shunned the Sunshine State while campaigning with John McCain as a Vice Presidential contender. And where is he right now for McCain, or Florida?
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A steady stream goes to The Blaze, the supporters and self-interest groups who have demonized the three incumbent County Commissioners. The act of contributing thousands of dollars to put a personal brand of politicians in county seats is a bad bet unless the slight of hand will eventually handsomely pay off to make it a wager well pocketed.
A steady stream goes to The Blaze, the supporters and self-interest groups who have demonized the three incumbent County Commissioners. The act of contributing thousands of dollars to put a personal brand of politicians in county seats is a bad bet unless the slight of hand will eventually handsomely pay off to make it a wager well pocketed.
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A deluge goes to Wall Street and its history of pandering to questionable lending practices. Overflows go to Congress for buckling in to the unpopular means of bailing out those who have largely contributed to manipulating homeowners to spend beyond their means.
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