Census report: Broad racial disparities persist

Differences in income, education, home ownership continue, data finds
Associated Press

WASHINGTON - Decades after the civil rights movement, racial disparities in income, education and home ownership persist and, by some measurements, are growing. White households had incomes that were two-thirds higher than blacks and 40 percent higher than Hispanics last year, according to data released Tuesday by the Census Bureau. White adults were also more likely than black and Hispanic adults to have college degrees and to own their own homes. They were less likely to live in poverty. See: U.S. report: Racial disparities continue

Blacks In US Have Suicide Attempt Rate Higher Than Previously Reported

Medical News Today

New research indicates that blacks in the U.S. have a lifetime prevalence of attempted suicide of about 4 percent, a rate comparable with the general population, but higher than previous estimates, according to a study in the November 1 issue of JAMA. Among all Americans, suicide is the 11th leading cause of death and the rates range across specific demographic subgroups. In recent years, suicide and nonfatal suicidal behavior have emerged as crucial health issues for blacks, particularly among older adolescents and young adults, according to background information in the article. Although suicide has traditionally been viewed as a problem that affects more whites, the rates of suicide among blacks have increased significantly since the mid 1980s. Lack of data on the lifetime prevalence and age at onset of suicidal thoughts, plans, and attempts among blacks in the United States have limited the development and evaluation of interventions to reduce suicide among black Americans. See: Click here: Blacks In US Have Suicide Attempt Rate Higher Than Previously Reported

Cleveland's own Gerald Levert Dies at 40

R&B Crooner Gerald Levert Dies at 40
Associated Press

NEW YORK -- Gerald Levert, the fiery singer of passionate R&B love songs and the son of O'Jays singer Eddie Levert, died on Friday. He was 40. His label, Atlantic Records, confirmed that Levert died at his home in Cleveland, Ohio. "All of us at Atlantic are shocked and deeply saddened by his untimely death. He was one of the greatest voices of our time, who sang with unmatched soulfulness and power, as well as a tremendously gifted composer and an accomplished producer," the statement read. Dan Bomeli, public relations manager at University Hospitals Geauga Medical Center in suburban Cleveland, said Levert had been brought to the hospital. Bomeli said Levert had died but he had no further details....Later reports say he deid of a heart attack.

Need a word? Try Webster-Online

KNN Cleveland

Looking for the definition to a word? Click on the link below to use the Merriam-Webster's Dictionary Online. This is a must for all scholars and truth seekers. It is an exhaustive tool to aid in your class preparations and research. This tool can also be added to your "Favorites" links for quick and ready use. Enjoy.

Click Here: Try Merriam-Webster Online

Label May Say Healthy, but Grocer Begs to Differ

By ANDREW MARTIN, The New York Times

For many grocery shoppers, the feeling is familiar: that slight swell of virtue that comes from dropping a seemingly healthful product into a shopping cart. But at one New England grocery chain, choosing some of those products may induce guilt instead.

The chain, Hannaford Brothers, developed a system called Guiding Stars that rated the nutritional value of nearly all the food and drinks at its stores from zero to three stars. Of the 27,000 products that were plugged into Hannaford's formula, 77 percent received no stars, including many, if not most, of the processed foods that advertise themselves as good for you.

These included V8 vegetable juice (too much sodium), Campbell’s Healthy Request Tomato soup (ditto), most Lean Cuisine and Healthy Choice frozen dinners (ditto) and nearly all yogurt with fruit (too much sugar). Whole milk? Too much fat — no stars. Predictably, most fruits and vegetables did earn three stars, as did things like salmon and Post Grape-Nuts cereal. Must Read Article: Click here: Label May Say Healthy, but Grocer Begs to Differ - AOL News

Is this 21st century colonization?

Submitted by Herta Malita Shikapwashya
KNN Staff-International Geopolitics Reporter

The large influx of Chinese people in Africa has to raise eyebrows. Why is China suddenly taking a massive interest in African countries? Yes, China has help several African countries in the past, but has never demonstrated such a huge interest in Africa. We understand that Africa has many untapped resources and perhaps this is one of the reasons China (a G7) is taking an interest in Africa.

Is the interest in Africa genuine, or is there a hidden agenda? Arguably, China might be helping Africa to meet its needs via tapping into those resources that Africa is yet to recognize. In the recent past, China has become an oil hungry country and Africa is emerging as an oil continent. In return, Africa is getting help in the areas of reconstruction (bridges, roads etc). But are there any real gains for African countries? Can’t Africans themselves reconstruct what the Chinese are doing for them? We can only hope that these questions will be answered by African leaders after they have gathered at the summit between China and Africa scheduled in Beijing this week.

China’s motives are clearly economic but we also know that they have one of the worst human rights records in the world and this has to concern our African leaders. China, a super power and all weather friend is showing interest in Africa unlike other members of the G7 who never wanted Africa to be self-sufficient. China claims that “it will lead Africa to its own development”. But we must remember that today, China is importing more oil from Africa than it does from Saudi Arabia. Isn’t this the way colonialism started? By finding resources, tricking the people into believing that this would benefit them, then only to use a divide and conquer tactic. Perhaps it does not matter at this point in time what color the cat is, as long as it catches mice. So who is next after the Chinese? India? And then the grabbing of territories? This might be a rebirth of colonialization. Africa must not be blind sighted.

Beijing facelift for Africa summit , BBC News, Beijing: The Chinese capital has undergone a really extraordinary transformation this week as Beijing welcomes 48 heads of African governments. Out in the street now there is a hoarding that must be about 30ft (9m) high and 50ft (15m). On it are 10ft-high zebras and giraffes and an enormous African elephant - and these hoardings are all over the city. Beijing is festooned with pictures of Africa, with new flower beds that have been rolled out overnight, even with Christmas decorations. The Chinese are really rolling out the red carpet for this China-Africa jamboree. To give another example: the street behind me at this time of day is usually completely clogged with traffic. But today there are virtually no cars on the streets, because half a million vehicles have been ordered out of Beijing for this week in order to keep everything flowing nice and smoothly. Above me the sky is blue, another rather unusual event in the Chinese capital. Many factories have also been closed down.

Special relationship: This is in many ways a dress rehearsal for the 2008 Olympics. It also shows just how important the Chinese now consider their relationship with the African continent. But what is that relationship really about? Well, the slogan on the wall behind me here says "Friendship, peace, co-operation and development". It is very clear what the Chinese are getting out of this relationship. China now imports more oil, for example, from Angola than it does from Saudi Arabia. The Chinese economy has a voracious appetite for all sorts of resources from Africa, from timber to iron ore to diamonds.

What I think is far less clear is what this new relationship is bringing in terms of benefits to the economies and, more importantly, to the people of Africa.

Women sue over popular birth control patch

Lawsuits claim contraceptive caused serious illness and at least one death - Associated Press

SAN FRANCISCO - More than 40 women sued the makers of a popular birth-control patch Wednesday, claiming the contraceptive caused serious illnesses and at least one death. One lawsuit alleges that 43 women suffered from blood clots and other health ailments after taking Ortho Evra, one of the fastest-growing forms of contraception in the U.S. A second complaint claims that 25-year-old Kelly Bracken of Elk Ridge, Md., died of severe blood clots in her lungs and legs after she started wearing the skin patch. See: Women sue over birth-control patch

El-Tsadeek Ben Baruch - The next Tiger Woods???

Flowers High team scores well at county championships
Thursday, Oct. 26, 2006
by Ted Black, The Gazette - Staff Writer

"Flowers’ Geoffrey Napper shot an 83 at the county championships last week at Enterprise Golf Course in Mitchellville. It was the lowest male score."

Prince George’s County placed three girls among the top 10 in the state in this week’s state high school championships at the University of Maryland. Among county boys participating at the state tournament, Roosevelt senior Alex Mihalik (158) shot consecutive rounds of 79 to finish among the top 30. Mihalik was 16 strokes behind South River’s Josh Eure (142). Flowers junior Geoffery Napper (166) also had a respectable showing on rounds of 81 Monday and 85 on Wednesday...Sweet was the top female player and was the lowest junior. Napper (83) and Roosevelt’s Matt Zaiger (86) were the top male juniors. Nicole West (85) won the sophomore crown, followed closely by Bowie’s Rob Wiemann (88) and Flowers’ sophomore Gavin Thompson (88). Bowie’s Steven Hyre (87) recorded the lowest round among freshmen, six strokes better than Roosevelt’s Jake Park.

OIL AND GAS DISCOVERED IN ZAMBIA - Part 2

Zambia has announced its first discoveries of oil and gas reserves.
Submitted by Herta Malita Shikapwashya - KNN Staff-International Geopolitics Reporter

The discoveries were made in western Zambia, near the border with Angola, already a major oil exporter. President Levy Mwanawasa said that samples from 12 sites have proved positive in tests conducted in Germany. Exploration had been carried out for the past two years, as part of efforts to diversify the economy away from copper exports.

'Strengthen the economy'
Mr Mwanawasa said the government would now appoint a special cabinet committee to select foreign oil firms to conduct comprehensive exploration. "These results confirm the presence of oil and gas in the sub-surface of the two districts of Chavuma and Zambezi," he said. He said he hoped they could also look for oil in other parts of the country. "It is hoped that the country will see more exploration and extraction activities for oil and gas in different parts that would strengthen the country's economy," said Mr Mwanawasa. The president won a second term in office in September, having campaigned on his economic record. Western donors have praised him for boosting economic growth above 5% and attracting foreign investments, helped by his anti-corruption campaign. Yet Mr Mwanawasa's main rival for the presidency, Michael Sata, alleged that he was cheated of victory.

Britain seeks ‘bold’ climate action, hires Gore

Report by senior economist says it's cheaper to fight than let it happen
MSNBC News Services

LONDON - Unchecked global warming will devastate the global economy on the scale of the world wars and the Great Depression, according to a major British report released Monday that seeks to quantify the costs and benefits of action as well as inaction. British Treasury chief Gordon Brown, who commissioned the report and who could very well become Britain's next prime minister when Tony Blair steps down next year, said former U.S. Vice President Al Gore, who has dedicated himself to warning about global warming, would advise the British government on climate change.

Introducing the report, Blair said unabated climate change would eventually cost the world between 5 percent and 20 percent of global gross domestic product each year...He called for “bold and decisive action” to cut carbon dioxide emissions and stem the worst of the temperature rise. And Blair called the report “the most important document on the future” that he had read since becoming prime minister...Blair emphasized that the scientific community agrees that the world is warming, and that greenhouse gas emissions from burning fossil fuels are largely to blame. “It is not in doubt that if the science is right, the consequences for our planet are literally disastrous,” he said. “This disaster is not set to happen in some science fiction future many years ahead, but in our lifetime. Unless we act now ... these consequences, disastrous as they are, will be irreversible,” he added. See Article: UK issues warming warning, hires Gore

OIL AND GAS DISCOVERED IN ZAMBIA

Is this a blessing? Who is to blame for Africa’s misfortunes?

Submitted by Herta Malita Shikapwashya
KNN Staff-International Geopolitics Reporter

In celebration of Zambia’s 42nd Independence day, October 24, 2006.

Part 1

Where is Zambia? Formerly known as Northern Rhodesia, The Republic of Zambia, a peaceful landlocked country is located in South Central Africa and surrounded by 8 neighbors: Angola on the West, Botswana, Mozambique, Zimbabwe and Namibia to the South, Malawi on the East, Tanzania on the North-East and the Democratic Republic of Congo to the North. Zambia is named after the Zambezi River. Zambia, a country lightly larger than Texas, the 39th largest country in the world (after Chile) is divided into nine provinces, and an appointed deputy minister performs the duties of a governor. Each province is subdivided into districts with a total of 72 districts in the country and 72 Bantu speaking tribes. The Provinces are: Central, Copperbelt, Eastern, Luapula, Lusaka, Northern, North-Western, Southern and Western. The capital city of Zambia is Lusaka.

So why are the blessings of discovering oil, in an unknown landlocked country making the news? In order to understand the reasoning readers must have some knowledge of Zambian history.

Zambia a former British colony got her independence on October 24, 1964 under the leadership of Dr. Kenneth David Kaunda. The liberation (struggle for) independence took a great toll on Zambians and its economy. Despite its considerable mineral wealth (copper), there were many challenges as Zambia’s neighbors, Zimbabwe (formerly Southern Rhodesia) and the Portuguese colonies (Mozambique and Angola) were under colonial rule. Additionally, Zambia shared a border with Namibia (formerly South-West Africa) which was under the control of White South Africa. To better understand the price of liberation, Zambia hosted the ANC (African National Congress) to liberate South Africa, Swapo (South-West Africa People’s Organization) to liberate Namibia, Zanu (Zimbabwe African People’s Union) and allied parties to liberate Zimbabwe, MPLA (Movimento Popular de Libertação de Angola translation: The Popular Movement for the Liberation of Angola) and Unita (União Nacional para a Independência Total de Angola translation: National Union for Total Independence of Angola) to liberate Angola. Today, Zambia continues to host and attempt to stabilize other African Countries. Resources that were meant for the local people were utilized not only to support the struggle for liberation, but to also host many refugees that migrated to Zambia to look for a peaceful home. In addition, Zambia has hosted exiled leaders such as the late Milton Obote who died in Lusaka, Zambia (1985-2006). Since independence, Zambia has had other Presidents, Dr. Frederick Titus Chiluba and the current President, Patrick Levy Mwanawasa, sc. Zambia’s prized possessions are peace, and its motto: One Zambia, One Nation.

Zambia has always understood that its independence was incomplete unless her neighbors were equally independent of external interference. Therefore, Zambia positioned herself to champion the liberation of other countries and the result of that was, a number of countries from east and west Africa joining in towards the struggle of independence for Namibia, Angola, Mozambique, Zimbabwe and today, South Africa. A stable Southern Africa is born.

The discovery of Oil
While discovering oil in a landlocked country could bring employment to many of Zambia’s poor people, one must not forget what has already happened in Africa. Zambia has always valued peace and has welcomed many people from all walks of life. But the one thing that Zambians must do is safe guard the peace that most African countries can only wish for. History has demonstrated that wherever there is oil, gold, or diamonds in Africa: there is a war or instability.

So who can be blamed for Africa’s misfortunes? The beautiful thing about African’s is that we are a forgiving people. We continue to forgive despite the fact that we have been raped time and time again. If you are wondering about the who’s, why’s and when’s then all you have to do is read books such as ­–Confessions of an Economic Hitman, by John Perkins, and if you are not satisfied, then look at some of the richest companies in the world, GlaxoSmithKline (GSK), Firestone, Monsanto and Ford Automobile. Once you conduct your research, you will find that it is not a coincidence that the rest of the world is trying to help Africa. It is not by accident that some of the richest men and women are in Africa conducting “charity work”. The likes of Jay-Z holding concerts; BET’s Bob Johnson’s $30 million dollar donation and consortium; and Bill Gates/Rupert Murdock philanthropy demonstrates high motivation to possibly help. It simply comes down to exploitation of people, exploitation of resources, and exploitation of generosity. Nothing that is going on in Africa is a coincidence or happenstance. The rest of the world owes Africa and her children, and owes them enormously.

If you have any question please use the comments link below.

SCLC to Play Global Peacekeeping Role

by George E. Curry - NNPA Editor-in-Chief
BlackPressUSA.Com

DAYTON, Ohio (NNPA) – With a conflict resolution center already established in Israel and a direct line of communication to Hamas, one of Israel’s most ardent foes, SCLC President Charles W. Steele Jr. says Dr. Martin Luther King’s old organization is poised to play a key role in defusing tensions around the world.Steele, a former Alabama state senator, made that observation Sunday in his keynote address opening the group’s 48th annual convention here.“In a world of prejudice, violence, poverty and ignorance, the message of SCLC is to teach and apply Martin Luther King Jr.’s principles of non-violence and conflict resolution,” Steele said.

One of SCLC’s goals, he said, is: “To bring peace, security and hope to the afflicted people in the South, throughout America and around the world.” Steele said that mission was crystallized in a conversation he had in December 2004 with Prime Minister Ariel Sharon and his chief of staff.“I was in Israel talking with the chief of staff and the prime minister and he [the chief of staff] said, ‘You all can bring about world peace. You all have been through the Trans-Atlantic African slave trade and you got lynched, you were murdered, your women were raped and killed, but you didn’t turn out to be terrorists. You didn’t strap yourselves with a bomb, you don’t have any blood on your hands.’“I said, ‘What are you saying Mr. Chief of Staff to the Prime Minister?’ He said, ‘Charles, what I am saying is you can stop the war.’” Steele said representatives of Hamas have recently gotten in touch with him, urging SCLC to help diffuse tension in the Middle East. And Steele says he plans to do just that. For Complete Article See: SCLC to Play Global Peacekeeping Role

USVI reparations leader says Danes altered UN Resolution

KNN-ST JOHN, USVI
by Susan Mann
Caribbean Net News St Thomas-St John Correspondent

ST JOHN, USVI: The St Croix, US Virgin Islands-based African Caribbean Reparations and Resettlement Alliance president, Shelley Moorhead, has accused the UN Danish Mission of "backpedaling at the United Nations." In a letter dated October 20, written to Danish Consul General Soren Blak, Moorhead explained that a UN Resolution passed in June of 2006, has been modified by the Danish Mission, and now excludes a significant reference to reparations activities between the USVI and Denmark, as well as statements of endorsements by the United Nations. The UN Resolution is entitled "Implementation of the Declaration on the Granting of Independence to Colonial Countries and Peoples." The original document, dated June 9, 2006, included the following statement; "Noting the ongoing cooperation between the territorial Government and Denmark on the reparation of artefacts and archives, and the agreement between the Danish Human Rights Institute and the African Caribbean Reparations and Resettlement Alliance, a non-governmental organization based in the Territory, to examine the question of reparations between the people of Denmark and the people of the United States Virgin Islands with respect to the institution of slavery..."

Moorhead has announced that last week, before the document was to reach the General Assembly for vote, "the Danish Mission used its 'diplomatic muscle' to procure an amendment to the resolution," editing the latter paragraph and also "removing the UN recognition, endorsement, and acknowledgment of the USVI/Denmark shared past with respect to the institution of slavery." A representative from the office of USVI Delegate to Congress, Donna M. Christensen, said Christensen could not comment on the matter because she had not reviewed the current UN document. Moorhead issued the following statement to Caribbean Net News: "The abrupt withdrawal at the United Nations level arouses great concern that Denmark might be continuing along its historically traveled path to denying its role and responsibility in the tragic slave history of its former colony." The ACRRA President told the Consul General, " If the Danish Foreign Ministry can do nothing positive to influence the agreement between the Danes and Virgin Islanders with respect to our shared history and the restoration of our collective humanity, then perhaps it may be advisable that they do nothing at all until they are prepared to accept the reality of Denmark's history and its impact on her former colony."

There are currently several joint endeavors underway between the USVI and Denmark, all of which were spearheaded by ACRRA. In addition, during the month of July, a USVI delegation traveled by official invitation to Ghana where they participated in a reparations-related healing ceremony. Caribbean Net News will report any further developments concerning the final content of the United Nations document following a General Assembly vote.

Preliminary Research Links Cell Phone Use, Weakened Fertility

By K.C. Jones, TechWeb Technology News

Cell phone use could affect sperm and it may be linked to a decline in fertility, according to recent findings. The number of hours men use cell phones each day was linked to sperm counts and quality, according to findings announced Monday and presented at the 62nd annual meeting of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM). The findings are preliminary and have not been confirmed. Researchers in Cleveland, Mumbai and New Orleans observed 364 men, who were divided according to cell phone use. Those who did not use cell phones at all had sperm counts of 86 million per milliliter, with 68 percent motility (ability to move) and 40 percent normal shape and form.

Men who used cell phones more than four hours a day had a sperm count of 66 million per milliliter, with 48 percent motility and 21 percent normal shape and form. That is a significant reduction, according to the ASRM. The World Health Organization states that normal sperm count is at least 20 million per milliliter, with normal at least 50 percent motility and 30 percent normal shape and form. Researchers believe the effect of cell phones on sperm may be due to electromagnetic radiation or to the heat cell phones generate. They noted that more study is needed to identify the mechanism involved in the reduction of sperm quality due to cell phones. Also see: Cell Phone Use May Reduce Sperm Count

The End of an Era?

With Farrakhan Ill, the Nation of Islam Prepares for Change
By Darryl Fears and Hamil R. Harris - Washington Post Staff Writers

Nearly 30 years after Louis Farrakhan seized control of the Nation of Islam, the organization is preparing for a change at the top. The controversial minister is battling what he has described as a "life-threatening" illness -- painful swelling of the prostate that has left him more than 30 pounds underweight, dehydrated, anemic and unwilling to eat. Farrakhan, 73, recently relinquished his duties and turned control over to an executive panel of trusted lieutenants, exhorting them to move the Nation of Islam forward and prove that it is more than the charisma and influence of one man. See Complete Article: http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/10/21/AR2006102100337.html

Kindergartners get sex ed classes

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

CLEVELAND - City schools will expand sex education curriculum to include age-appropriate lessons that begin as early as kindergarten, officials said. The initiative comes as Cleveland's teen birth rates are high but dropping - about 40 of every 1,000 girls ages 15-19 become pregnant every year, according to state data - and rates of some sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV, are rising. Cases of chlamydia, the most common STD, rose 30 percent over the past five years while HIV, rarely diagnosed in adolescents, turned up in 19 Cuyahoga County teens.

"One-third of all the HIV/AIDS cases in Ohio are in Cleveland," said Lita Townsend, responsible sexual behavior coordinator for the district. "Really, the best weapon we have right now is education." Cleveland schools already offer sex education to many of their middle- and high-school students. The schools also are required to teach HIV prevention. The new classes, which begin soon, will address self-esteem and peer pressure as well as biology. Children in grades K-3 will learn about how viruses work and appropriate and inappropriate touching. Grades 4-6 will start learning about menstruation and other aspects of reproductive health.

In grades 7-12, the discussion shifts to interpersonal relationships, HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted diseases, teen pregnancy and respect for sexual orientation. Abortion will be explained and defined but not promoted, said Townsend, adding that she's unaware of other programs in the state that target every grade level.

Middle class America living on the edge?

Could your family absorb the financial strain of a job loss or medical emergency? By Debora Vrana - MSN Money

The middle class today is less prepared for an economic emergency, such as losing a job or visiting an emergency room, than at any time since the late 1970s, concludes a new study from a political think tank in Washington, D.C., that's funded by Democrats.

"Middle Class in Turmoil," produced by the Center for American Progress and the Service Employees International Union, mines data from the Federal Reserve, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, census records and other sources to paint a picture of increasing peril for those in the middle 60% of income distribution, about $18,000 to $88,000.

"People are incredibly anxious, and families are stressed out. We're seeing too many families passing like ships in the nights in the driveway," said Andy Stern, the head of the Service Employees International Union, the largest and fastest-growing union in the United States. "The rising tide is not raising all boats -- only luxury liners. It's not building the kind of America that any of us want." To see complete click Here: Middle class living on the edge?

Being overweight tied to poor memory

Substance produced by fat cells may affect the brain, study suggests-Reuters News Service

NEW YORK - Overweight middle-aged adults tend to score more poorly on tests of memory, attention and learning ability than their thinner peers do, researchers reported Monday. The findings, they say, suggest that a heavier weight in middle age may mean a higher risk of dementia later in life. Reporting in the journal Neurology, the researchers speculate that higher rates of cardiovascular disease or diabetes might help explain the link. But it’s also possible that substances produced by fat cells, such as the hormone leptin, have direct effects on the brain. See: Fat tied to poor memory

Bad drug reactions send 700,000 to ER yearly

Accidental overdoses, allergies to common medicines cause most problems-Associated Press

CHICAGO - Harmful reactions to some of the most widely used medicines — from insulin to a common antibiotic — sent more than 700,000 Americans to emergency rooms each year, landmark government research shows. Accidental overdoses and allergic reactions to prescription drugs were the most frequent cause of serious illnesses, according to the study, the first to reveal the nationwide scope of the problem. People over 65 faced the greatest risks.

“This is an important study because it reinforces the really substantial risks that there are in everyday use of drugs,” said patient safety specialist Bruce Lambert, a professor at the University of Illinois at Chicago’s college of pharmacy. See:Drug reactions send 700,000 to ER yearly

Our Greatest Fear

Nelson Mandela, 1994 Inaugural Speech

Our greatest fear is not that we are inadequate,but that we are powerful beyond measure.It is our light, not our darkness, that frightens us.We ask ourselves, Who am I to be brilliant,gorgeous, handsome, talented and fabulous?Actually, who are you not to be?You are a child of God.Your playing small does not serve the world.There is nothing enlightened about shrinkingso that other people won't feel insecure around you.We were born to make manifest the glory of God within us.It is not just in some; it is in everyone.And, as we let our own light shine,we consciously give other people permission to do the same.As we are liberated from our fear,our presence automatically liberates others.

Reflections on what is a CFF

by A. Yaheerah e. S. Ahdeev-KNN Dimona

Shalom to all you C.F.F. out there, far and near, whom have dedicated your lives to the greatest endeavor now being undertaken on the face of the earth – the building and expansion of the Kingdom of Yah. Yah Chai!!!

We humbly invite you to turn your attention to a topic which should be a focus of constant meditation, reflection and introspection for all of us who have been channeled into one of the largest, most vibrant and powerful entities in the Kingdom of Yah, the Chosen First Fruit. The central question for us in this season: “What is a C.F.F.?”

At first glance, it may seem that the answer to this question is obvious. A. C.F.F. is a young adult Saint from the age of coming-in to approximately 40 years of age right? If you think so, think again. Does a person automatically become a soldier because he’s reached the age to enlist in the army? Does he not have to meet and maintain a set of requirements before he can be called a soldier? Furthermore, if he does not fulfill the requirements, will you feel secure if you know that he’s the one who will be defending and representing you, just because he falls into the same age group as the other soldiers who have proven themselves? Of course not! We must view the C.F.F. in the same manner if we are to meet the requirements of the 7th year of the Marriage Realm. So we pose the question again: “What is a C.F.F.?”

For our direction, let us consider the following scripture:

“Speak unto the children of Israel, and say unto them,
When you are come into the land which I give you, and
Shall reap the harvest thereof, then ye shall bring a sheaf
Of the first fruits of your harvest unto the priest…

Even unto the next day after the seventh Sabbath shall
Ye number fifty days: and ye shall offer a new meal
Offering unto the Lord. Ye shall bring out of your
Habitations two wave loaves of two tenth parts; they
Shall be of fine flour; thwy shall be baked with leaven;
They are the first fruits unto the Lord…”

Leviticus 23: 10, 16-17

At your convenience, please study Leviticus 23:9-22 in order to see the full scriptural foundation specific to the C.F.F. given in this book as a part of the High Holy Day requirements.

We have narrowed our focus upon the verses above in order to highlight the significance of two words written in the original Hebrew text – ראשית and בכורים. In English, they are both translated as “first fruits”. We will extract the eternal idea from these two words via Hebraic thought, in order to round out our understanding of our purpose as C.F.F. in the Kingdom of Yah.

The root letters of the word ראשית are ראש. This is a word which means “head” or “beginning”. The first is the beginning. All things must begin in dedication unto the creator of Yah. This is what sanctifies them, placing all things (actions, cultural expressions, etc.) in the context of holiness and divinity. It properly orientates the mind, i.e. maintains our focus and respect unto the Creator as the author of all things. In this manner, we express thanks unto Yah, the source of our increase/harvest.

The word בכורים means “chosen by Yah; early crop.” The season spoken of in the scripture above is the High Holy season of Shavuote – a season of harvest. Every harvest begins with a sower – one who plants and cultivates in anticipation of the harvest. In order to be chosen or preferred by Yah, a C.F.F. must be as the early crop – ripe for harvesting. This means that a C.F.F. must be in a state of readiness that the sower may reap those things which bring benefit unto him. This is the essence of service unto Yah- rendering unto him those activities and cultural expressions which are representative of that which serves his interests, with an eye always toward productivity (fruitfulness) and expansion of Kingdom interests. Hence, our motto: Total Performance!

Shavuote is the season of lifting up a living savior. The Holy Messiah has taught us that we are the offering, the harvest that must be rendered unto Yah. We must seek to harmonize our thoughts, actions and cultural expressions with what we know to be pleasing unto the Messiah (Yah’s representative). We’ve been taught so we don’t have to guess about those things that bring pleasure unto Him and those things that do not. By keeping ourselves in cycle, we acknowledge the earthly covenant between Yah and man: We will serve Yah via following the instructions of Yah’s anointed/image/representative, the Holy Messiah.

Finally, Shavuote follows Passover – a time of cleansing, purging. We should arrive at this season in a state of purity and with a high level of focus. We should be able to present ourselves before Yah without blemish, i.e. free of the thought patterns, behaviors and cultural influences of the anti-Yah world system. Harvesting season is the culmination of a season of hard work and preparation. If there has been no preparation, there can be no harvest.

Rising tide of sewage threatens world’s oceans, endangering human health, wildlife

United Nations

While good progress has been made in curbing oil and chemical pollution, a rising tide of sewage is threatening the world’s seas and oceans, endangering human health, wildlife and livelihoods ranging from fisheries to tourism, according to a new United Nations report published today.
“An estimated 80 per cent of marine pollution originates from the land and this could rise significantly by 2050 if, as expected, coastal populations double in just over 40 years time and action to combat pollution is not accelerated,” UN Environment Programme (UNEP) Executive Director Achim Steiner warned.

“We have a long way to go politically, technically and financially if we are to hand over healthy and productive seas and oceans to the next generation,” he said, with $56 billion needed annually just to address the waste water problem. Compounded by rising coastal populations, inadequate treatment infrastructure and waste handling facilities, up to nearly 90 per cent of sewage entering coastal zones in many developing countries is estimated to be raw and untreated, according to the UNEP study, the State of the Marine Environment report. See: Click here: Rising tide of sewage threatens world’s oceans, endangering human health, wildlife – UN

Powerful earthquake strikes Hawaii

Numerous aftershocks follow temblor; power out, but no tsunami alert
ASSOCIATED PRESS

HONOLULU - A strong earthquake shook Hawaii early Sunday, causing a landslide that blocked a major highway on Hawaii Island and knocking out power across the state, authorities said. The state Civil Defense had unconfirmed reports of injuries, but communication problems prevented more definite reports. People were also trapped in elevators in Oahu, authorities said. The quake occurred at 7:07 a.m. local time, 10 miles north-northwest of Kailua Kona, a town on the west coast of the Big Island, said Don Blakeman, a geophysicist at the National Earthquake Information Center, part of the U.S. Geological Survey.
The Pacific Tsunami Center reported a preliminary magnitude of 6.5, while the U.S. Geological Survey gave a preliminary magnitude of 6.3. It was followed by several strong aftershocks, including one measuring a magnitude of 5.8, the Geological Survey said. See : 6.3 earthquake strikes Hawaii

CFF-Tallahassee-On the Move!!!!

Tallahassee opens the KOY’s 3rd Soul Vegetarian Restaurant on Wheels! A Kingdom Success Story!

Article submitted by Ahk Ahmahtsiyah-KNN Tallahassee

On Wednesday October 4, 2006, the saints of the Tallahassee, Florida mission opened the KOY’s third Soul Vegetarian Restaurant on wheels. And the report is awesome! Shortly after the Tallahassee Brotherhood set up the food trailer the first group of customers excitedly approached the counter and placed their orders while exclaiming their appreciation for being able to get Soul Vegetarian’s delicious cuisine during the evening hours (Monday thru Friday, 5pm to 10pm). As the evening progressed, the Tallahassee Sisterhood served scores of customers as they continued to come until just minutes before closing. At the end of the first night of business, the new food trailer’s performance had met and exceeded all expectations. Prior to the opening of this new location, Soul Vegetarian on Wheels had only been operating during the lunchtime hours (Monday thru Friday, 11am to 4pm). This latest expansion will now provide the extremely loyal Soul Vegetarian customer base with greater access to our cuisine!

To give some background, Soul Vegetarian Restaurant on wheels began back in 1995 as an idea of Prince Rahm Ben Yehudah (Southern Region Representative and Holy Council member of the African Hebrew Israelites of Jerusalem) and made its initial appearance in the 1996 Olympic Games in Atlanta Georgia. During the Olympic Games the KOY and partners successfully operated three food trailers and served multitudes of people. Then in October of 1997, after learning that Prince Rahm was offering two of the food trailers for sale on behalf of the KOY, the young saints of the Tallahassee, Florida mission purchased one of the food trailers and began operating on Florida A&M Universities campus. The food trailers still currently operate on the campus today. The original team of saints consisted of Ahmahtsiyah, Nehehmahnyah, Zacoor, Daniella, Zohariah, Emah Hotirah and Prahkeet. Several months later as they recognized the great potential of the food trailers, the saints purchased the second food trailer in January of 1998. It currently operates in the heart of downtown Tallahassee on Kleman Plaza (200 N. Duval St) which the saints have aptly renamed Kingdom Court.

The new food trailer sits just off the corner of Gaines Street and Railroad Avenue in a well populated area just blocks from downtown Tallahassee. The two major universities in town: Florida A&M (FAMU) and Florida State (FSU) are within walking distance of the new food trailer. The location is also home to a very well developed artist community and there is a 300 room Residence Inn by Marriott near completion on the corner adjacent to the food trailer.

The look of the new food trailer is totally different from the two existing trailers. The first and most astounding aspect of the new trailer is that the Divine Jerusalem Brotherhood in the Southern Region, again inspired by and under the direction of Prince Rahm, conceptualized, designed and then piece by piece built the new food trailer. You see, the original food trailers are stainless steel and were purchased “ready made” from a company in New Jersey. But Prince Rahm envisioned that the KOY could build a trailer with all of the desired custom features and at the same time save money doing it! And the results are awe inspiring! The exterior of the trailer is made from the finest marine lumber that has been stained and coated with 3 layers of poly urethane seal. This process protects the wood and gives it a high gloss shine. Also, the new food trailer design is 2 to 3 feet taller than most mobile units, a feature that harmonizes with the distinguished manner in which the KOY implements all its expansion projects. Surely all heads turn when viewing this perfectly functional design of skill and craftsmanship. The interior has all the amenities that one needs to prepare and serve delicious Soul Vegetarian cuisine including a refrigerator/freezer, steam table, counter top stove, blenders, 3 compartment sink, cabinet space and electricity. The menu consists of all the Soul Vegetarian favorites (Bar-b-que tofu, mac & cheese, kale-bone, Garvey burgers, soy beam ice cream, sweet potato pie, live/raw platters, etc.) as well as a few regional selections.

Respect and continued encouragement is given not only to the saints of the Tallahassee mission, but to all saints near and far who unify under the KOY platform of the divine order of all things in common to bring about expansion. The current team of saints consists of Ahmahtsiyah, Anahv, Ahmdiel, Aveeazer, Daniella, D’Gahnyah, Prahkeet, sister Candy, sister Simone and sister Renee. This great expansion is evidence of the great advancements taking place on the earth within the framework of the KOY paradigm. It demonstrates once again that there is no need to look “outside” for the answers; for it has been revealed to us that the Living Yah dwells in the midst of us and therefore so does all of the answers to life’s blessings! Halleluyah! Yah Khai! And thanks and praises to His Excellency Ben Ammi Ben Israel, the Living Yah, for the power that He has given us in this season!

Dining Out: Soul Vegetarian South

KNN Staff

PETA pal John Feldmann, lead singer of the punk band Goldfinger, raves: “Soul Vegetarian has the most awesome vegan lasagna and vegan gyro sandwiches ever!”John’s not the only one singing the praises of the Soul Vegetarian restaurants. PETA’s elephant specialist, Jane Garrison, says, “When you walk into Soul Vegetarian South, the aroma of the food carries you (running) down the hall to the dining room. The people who run the restaurant always greet you as if you are entering their home—after the second visit, we were greeted with hugs!“My favorite dish is the ‘bar-b-que twist’—absolutely incredible fib ‘ribs.’ The texture is amazing—not too mushy and not too tough. The homemade sauce is so delicious, you will find yourself trying to lick every bit off your fork! This dish is served with the best vegan potato salad I have ever had and some yummy Southern-style greens.

Every meal at Soul Vegetarian for me is followed by my favorite dessert: sweet potato pie topped with vegan vanilla ‘ice cream.’ The crust of the pie is so sweet and delicious, you feel like you are eating a pie that has been placed on a cookie!“Other amazing dishes include the lasagna, baked tofu, pasta casserole, divine protein salad (mock chicken salad)—and anything else they are serving as the special for the night! “The food, the people, the price: Soul Vegetarian can’t be beat!”

Philosophy: For more than a decade, Soul Vegetarian has been the place where vegetarians and nonvegetarians come to enjoy a more healthful way of eating without concern for loss of flavor or the joy of eating. Colorful and delicious dishes, exotic décor, and superb staff combine to create a completely vegan dining adventure that must be experienced to be believed. See: KingdomOfYah.com/SV.htm

Spiritual Foundation of the Chosen First Fruit

By Bikeeah B. Israel-KNN Dimona

The spiritual foundation of the CFF is rooted in the Divine Cycles of Yah. In agricultural terms, the “First Fruits” or “Harvest” of one’s labor in the field was a great blessing. The first fruit was the increase (blessing) of the farmer’s hard labor and toil in the field. Yah worked and created the heavens and the earth – the fruit of Yah’s creative life-giving spirit. This creation was termed “Genesis” or “Berasheet” in Hebrew which means “in a beginning” or a new birth of the consciousness of Yah in the minds of men.

“Rasheet” ראשית, a derivative of “Berasheet”, means choice of First Fruits indicating that Yah set into motion his choicest work. In this New World Order (new birth of the consciousness of Yah in the minds of men today), we, the Chosen First Fruit, stand as Yah’s choices work: the First Fruits of this New World Order.

The Chosen First Fruits from Dimona

By Akote Bikeeah B. Israel
KNN-CFF Staff

Shalom to all of you Chosen First Fruit out there, near and far, whom have dedicated your lives to the greatest endeavor ever to be undertaken on the face of the earth – the building and expansion of the Kingdom of Yah! And shalom to all of our friends and associates who also have seen the need to fight for a new world. We, the Chosen First Fruit Council from Jerusalem, extend our love and blessings to you all.

The Chosen First Fruit Worldwide is being created to increase communications between CFF Worldwide. This can serve as the vehicle by which we can unite across the distances that separate us, strengthening us to expand our efforts in building this great new world. As the youth of the Kingdom of Yah, it is time for us to arise and shine and show forth our great works to let the world know that Yah Khai-Yah Lives!

CFF Worldwide will cover news from our chapters worldwide. In this way we will always stay well informed about all CFF activities. We are requesting that every extension participate in this great new endeavor. We are now seeking volunteers to fill the following positions:
Extension representative for CFF Worldwide – The person who fills this position will solicit articles, creative submissions like photos, poetry, creative writings, menus, testimonies, etc. from CFF in their extension. All entries must be emailed to our email site which is cffworldwide@yahoo.com. All those interested in filling these positions, please email your contact information to our email site.

CFF-Ahk Yiore taking care of "Big Business" in the V.I.

Yah Khai!!!

Ahk Yiore is a member of the CFF-Chosen First Fruits from our St. Croix Mission. He has been taking care of "Big Business" as a member of the CFF. This season he has traveled to Israel and Africa spreading the good news of the Kingdom of Yah. Click on the links below to see some of the latest accomplishments he has achieved:

Danish scientists to discuss excavation of slave burials by Aesha DuvalThursday, September 21st, 2006Virgin Islands Daily News

Bones Tell Ancestors' Stories, Anthropologist Tells UVI Audience by Melody Wiggins Saturday, September 23rd, 2006St. Croix Source

Hidden Plantation Houses Island's History by Melody Wiggins Saturday, September 23rd, 2006St. Croix Source

USVI excavation project seeks to reveal 'Voices From Beyond the Grave'by Melody WigginsTuesday, September 26, 2006Caribbean Net News

Yah Khai for the CFF!!!!!!!

Special Edition CFF-Chosen First Fruit-Coming This Week

Yah Khai!!! This week KNN will highlight the accomplishments of the Chosen First Fruits of the Kingdom of Yah. The Chosen First Fruits (CFF) is an international organization of leaders who are setting new standards for world change. The CFF are mature adults ranging from ages 18-40, characterized by a renewed appreciation for values, morals, ethics, and spirituality. The CFF have dedicated their lives to creating a new world, taking a stand to combat those false perceptions that have resulted in the confusion and rampant immorality presently destroying youth globally. Plug in to KNN this week for highlights of the CFF in action. Yah Khai!!! We Got This!!!!!!!

IGNORANCE IS BLISSFULLY DANGEROUS, WASH OUT!!!

KNN- ST. LOUIS-Nehehmahnyah Ben Shaleak, The National Skin Therapist

Researchers at the National Institutes of Health have found a correlation between an ingredient found in shampoos and nervous system damage. The experiments were conducted with the brain cells of rats and they show that contact with this ingredient called methylisothiazoline, or MIT, causes neurological damage. Which products contain this chemical compound MIT? Head & Shoulders, Suave, Clairol and Pantene Hair Conditioner all contain this ingredient. Researchers are concerned that exposure to this chemical by pregnant women could put their fetus at risk for abnormal brain development. In other people, exposure could also be a factor in the development of Alzheimer's disease and other nervous system disorders.

The chemical causes these effects by preventing communication between neurons. Essentially, it slows the networking of neurons, and since the nervous system and brain function on a system of neural networks, the slowing of this network will suppress and impair the normal function of the brain and nervous system. These finding were presented December 5th at the American Society for Cell Biology annual meeting. There is an unknown danger of using brand-name personal care products. The vast majority of these products contain toxic chemical compounds like MIT that contribute to cancer, liver disorders and neurological diseases. In fact, this chemical, MIT, is just one of dozens of such chemicals that are found in personal care products.

Why are these dangerous personal care products allowed to remain on the market? Because the FDA, which is responsible for regulating these products, spends almost no time, money or effort actually investigating the safety of such products. Instead, the FDA spends the vast majority of its time approving new prescription drugs rather than protecting the public against the dangers from such drugs or personal care products like shampoos, soaps, deodorants and fragrance products. In fact, it may surprise you to learn that manufacturers can put practically any chemical they want into shampoos, even if it is a hazardous chemical listed in the RTECS database of toxicity and even if it is considered a toxic waste chemical by the EPA. The FDA allows all sorts of chemicals to be used in these products, including chemicals that are known carcinogens and that contribute to liver failure and nervous system disorders. How's that for protecting public health?

If you thought prescription drugs were dangerous, just take a look at the toxic chemicals found in personal care products used by virtually all Americans every single day. Americans bathe themselves in toxic chemicals and they do it by buying and using products made by brand name companies that have premier shelf positioning at convenience stores, grocery stores and discount clubs. One of the more curious personal care products on the market is Herbal Essences Shampoo by Clairol. Personally, I think this product is very deceptive, it's trying to exploit the word "herbal" to imply that the shampoo is healthy, even though it is primarily made with the same ingredients as other popular shampoos. The first three ingredients, for example, are: water, sodium laureth, and sodium lauryl sulfate. Big deal, huh? You can find the same three ingredients in 99-cent shampoo at Wal-Mart. Plus, the product contains all sorts of other ingredients that I personally would never allow to touch my skin (like methylchloroisothiazolinone, if you can believe there's actually a chemical with a name that long). Think the color of the shampoo is from the herbs? Think again. Three other ingredients in the shampoo are Yellow #5, Orange #4 and Violet #2.

In other words, this is a shampoo product purchased by naive consumers, in my opinion. People who really know herbs and natural products can only laugh at a product like this. Want a real shampoo? Or healthy skin care products, buy from Faithful Beauty Skin Care Products, Neem Botanicals, or Gotcha Covered Products. The bottom line to all of this, though, is that every week, it seems like we see a new announcement about some toxic chemical found in personal care products that is related to either cancer or neurological disorders. And yet week after week these products are being sold by retailers and consumed in large quantities by the American people who remain oblivious to the real damage these products are causing to their health.

Once again, the solution here is to protect yourself by learning the truth about these products and switching to products made with safe ingredients. There are safe shampoos, safe soaps, safe laundry detergents, dishwashing liquids and even deodorant products. You don't have to expose yourself to toxic chemicals to take care of personal hygiene, because whether you agree with it or not, these disease-causing chemicals are going to remain quite legal in the use of personal care products for many years to come. Why? You can bet that the manufacturers of these products will fight against any attempt to regulate or outlaw these toxic chemicals. That's because the chemicals are convenient for such manufacturers. It's much the same way in which food manufacturers use sodium nitrate in bacon and other packaged meats. It's all about their convenience rather than protecting your health. So, here's the idiot test for today: if I was standing on a street corner with a bottle of colored liquid, and I told you that liquid contained a toxic chemical that caused neurological disorders, Alzheimer's disease and birth defects, would you buy that product from me and scrub it into your scalp under warm water? Of course not. But if you're buying these popular shampoo products, that's exactly what you're doing right now. Such is the power of mechanics of evil reasoning and marketing in America.

Shooting jolts Amish country

By MARK SCOLFORO
The Associated Press

NICKEL MINES, Pa. -- The nation's third deadly school shooting in less than a week occurred Monday, and it could not have happened in a more unlikely place. After taking over a one-room schoolhouse in bucolic Amish country in Lancaster County, Charles Carl Roberts IV sent the boys and adults outside and barricaded the doors with two-by-fours. Most of the victims -- all girls -- were shot at point-blank range, after being lined up along the chalkboard, their feet bound with wire and plastic ties, authorities said. Three were killed, and at least seven were critically wounded. "This is a horrendous, horrific incident for the Amish community," state Police Commissioner Jeffrey Miller said. "They're solid citizens in the community. They're good people. They don't deserve ... no one deserves this." See: Shooting jolts Amish country

Childless Women Risk Poorer Health In Later Life

Submitted by Akote Ivryah - KNN Atlanta

Childless women run the risk of earlier death and poorer health in later life. A new study funded by the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) finds that not only childless women but also mothers of five or more children, teenage mothers and mothers who have children with less than an 18 month gap between births all have higher risks of death and poor health later in life. Findings are based on a study of three separate datasets of women born from 1911 onwards in Great Britain and the USA. "We already know quite of lot about the impact of a person's very early life or their socio-economic history on health and mortality in later life," explains researcher Professor Emily Grundy of the Centre for Population Studies, School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London. "But, in this study we were able to analyse the long-term health implications of a person's partnership and parenting experiences while taking into account education and other indicators of socio-economic status as well." See:Click here: Childless Women Risk Poorer Health In Later Life

Yeshua the Hebrew Messiah or Jesus the Christian Christ II; 8 CD set Now Available

All praises to Yah!
Crowned brother Ahtur Khazriel has just completed a successful U.S. tour of Yeshua The Hebrew Messiah or Jesus the Christian Christ Part 2. This seminar has brought unparalleled clarity to many age old questions about the validity of hellenistic influenced christianity while verifying the true hebraic perspective and definition of a messiah.

The DC MOI is proud to present the Yeshua the Hebrew Messiah or Jesus the Christian Christ II – 8 CD set (Scholar Edition) This is the complete presentation of one of most dynamic presentation from the Jerusalem School of the Prophets. Place your order today! The set is available for $30.00 per set. Click on the link below for more information:

http://www.kingdomofyah.com/Ahtur%20Khazriels%20Page/ahtur.html


Call 202-797-8110 or write ahtur@yahoo.com for you copies today!

Facts about "e. coli"

by Laviyah E. Nahum-KNN Cleveland

I have been researching the spinach situation and here's what I've found:

1. 73,000 people a year, roughly 200 people a day are affected by e. coli contamination from Beef.

2. Only 20 people have been affected by e. coli contamination from produce in the last 10 years.

3. Some news sources especially the AP are trying to make it sound like there have been 20 e. coli outbreaks from produce in the last five years. Their wording is very clever. You have to read carefully to see that it is only 20 individual cases. This is hardly worth mentioning when you consider that around 200 people a day are affected by e. coli from Beef.

4. However this is not all bad, as now farmers will be more careful to not wash produce with water that could be contaminated by cattle feces.

5. Don't buy produce from big farms that pre-package produce if you can buy from a farmer's market instead.

6. Don't buy from farms that have livestock. Small produce farmers at farmer's markets often just grow vegetables and fruits, and don't have animals.

For more details on the Spinach situation, articles from the FDA and CDC, and emails from fellow readers etc... see http://www.TheG ardenDiet.com/spinach.html

U.S. loosens airline security rules

OK as of Tuesday: toiletries in small bags, drinks bought in secure areas-MSNBC News

WASHINGTON - The U.S. government is partially lifting the ban against carrying liquids, gels and aerosols onto airliners that was instituted after a bomb plot was foiled last August, officials said Monday. “We now know enough to say that a total ban is no longer needed from a security point of view,” said Kip Hawley, head of the Transportation Security Administration, at a news conference at Reagan National Airport. Under the new rules, travelers may carry:

-Drinks and other items purchased in the secure areas of the airport.
-Travel-size toiletry containers of 3 ounces (90 ml) or less that are placed in a “quart-size, clear plastic, zip-top bag.”
-That includes items like lip gloss and hand lotion. The bags will be screened and returned if they are cleared.

Hawley called the new procedures a “common sense” approach that would maintain a high level of security at airports but ease conditions for passengers. “We have also taken additional security measures throughout the airport that make us comfortable allowing passengers to bring beverages and other items purchased in the secure area onboard,” he said. Traveling soon? See complete article: Travel rules

Experts: Junk culture is killing childhood

Video games, academic pressures contribute to rise in behavioral problems-Reuters News Service

LONDON - Britain’s children are being poisoned by a “junk culture” of processed food, computer games and over-competitive education, an influential group of authors and experts warned on Tuesday. In an open letter to the Daily Telegraph, 110 teachers, psychologists and children’s authors — including the internationally acclaimed Philip Pullman and Penelope Leach, a leading childcare expert — called on the government to act now to prevent childhood being killed off altogether. Forced “to act and dress like mini-adults”, children are becoming increasingly depressed and experiencing growing levels of behavioral and developmental problems, they said. Must read article, recomended reading from Dimona - Click here: Experts: Junk culture is killing childhood also see Academics warn 'junk culture' ruining childhood

Why the future doesn't need us.

Our most powerful 21st-century technologies - robotics, genetic engineering, and nanotech - are threatening to make humans an endangered species.
By Bill Joy-WIRED magazine

From the moment I became involved in the creation of new technologies, their ethical dimensions have concerned me, but it was only in the autumn of 1998 that I became anxiously aware of how great are the dangers facing us in the 21st century. First let us postulate that the computer scientists succeed in developing intelligent machines that can do all things better than human beings can do them. In that case presumably all work will be done by vast, highly organized systems of machines and no human effort will be necessary. Either of two cases might occur. The machines might be permitted to make all of their own decisions without human oversight, or else human control over the machines might be retained.

If the machines are permitted to make all their own decisions, we can't make any conjectures as to the results, because it is impossible to guess how such machines might behave. We only point out that the fate of the human race would be at the mercy of the machines. It might be argued that the human race would never be foolish enough to hand over all the power to the machines. But we are suggesting neither that the human race would voluntarily turn power over to the machines nor that the machines would willfully seize power. To see extensive article click here: Why the future doesn't need us.

Woman slain, fetus cut from her womb

Police detain a 26-year-old woman, described only as a person of interest
Associated Press

EAST ST. LOUIS, Ill. - The body of a woman who apparently had a fetus cut from her womb was found in a vacant lot, and police said Friday they had captured a woman in the case. State police said a 26-year-old woman, whom they described as a person of interest, had buried a baby Thursday that she said had been stillborn, East St. Louis Police Chief James Mister told the Belleville News-Democrat. An autopsy will be performed on the baby Friday to determine if it was removed from the dead woman's womb, Mister said. The East St. Louis case is the area's second recent case involving babies. A 36-year-old woman is accused of slashing a young mother's throat and kidnapping her baby on Sept. 15. The baby was found in good condition four days later. Another woman is to stand trial next April in the abduction of an unborn girl taken from the womb of Bobbie Jo Stinnett in December 2004 in Skidmore, Mo. The baby survived. See: Woman slain, fetus cut from womb

Music lessons help young child memories

Submitted by Tovleeyah Baht Israel
Article by Jennifer Kwan (Reuters)

TORONTO (Reuters) - Parents who spend time and money to teach their children music, take heart -- a new Canadian study shows young children who take music lessons have better memories than their nonmusical peers. The study, to be published in the online edition of the journal Brain on Wednesday, showed that after one year of musical training, children performed better in a memory test than those who did not take music classes. "(The research) tells us that if you take music lessons your brain is getting wired up differently than if you don't take music lessons," Laurel Trainor, professor of psychology, neuroscience and behavior at McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario, told Reuters. This is the first study to show that brain responses in young, musically trained and untrained children change differently over the course of a year," said Trainor who led the study. Over a year they took four measurements in two groups of children aged between four and six -- those taking music lessons and those taking no musical training outside school -- and found developmental changes over periods as short as four months.

The children completed a music test in which they were asked to discriminate between harmonies, rhythms and melodies, and a memory test in which they had to listen to a series of numbers, remember them and repeat them back. Trainor said while previous studies have shown that older children given music lessons had greater improvements in IQ scores than children given drama lessons, this is the first study to identify these effects in brain-based measurements in young children. She said it was not that surprising that children studying music improved in musical listening skills more than children not studying music. "On the other hand, it is very interesting that the children taking music lessons improved more over the year on general memory skills that are correlated with nonmusicalabilities such as literacy, verbal memory, visiospatial processing, mathematics and IQ," she said.

Sar Moriel attends UAPO Economic Summit

Up you mighty race!
By Jayson X (FinalCall.com)

ST. LOUIS, Mo. (FinalCall.com) - The Universal African Peoples Organization (UAPO) hosted the first National African Peoples Political and Economic Summit Aug. 17-19 to mark the 119th birthday of Jamaican-born Black Nationalist Marcus Garvey. The seminars covered many topics at the heart of the Black community, including Pan African Networking; Reparations and Constitutional Law; Holistic Health; and Entrepreneurship. With over 150 attendees over the weekend, the summit received a wide range of support from Christians, Hebrews, Muslims, Black Panthers and elected government officials. See:Up you mighty race!

E. coli outbreak spreads from tainted spinach

FOOD: Illnesses are reported in 19 states; outbreak is linked to a California company.
BY ANDREW BRIDGES
ASSOCIATED PRESS

WASHINGTON - A California natural foods company was linked Friday to a nationwide E. coli outbreak that has killed one person and sickened almost 100 others. Supermarkets across the country pulled spinach from shelves, and consumers tossed out the leafy green. Food and Drug Administration officials said that they had received reports of illness in 19 states including Minnesota and Wisconsin. The outbreak was traced to Natural Selection Foods, based in San Juan Bautista, Calif., and the company has voluntarily recalled products containing spinach. FDA officials stressed that the bacteria had not been isolated in products sold by Natural Selection Foods but that the link was established by patient accounts of what they had eaten before becoming ill. An investigation was continuing. "It is possible that the recall and the information will extend beyond Natural Selection Foods and involve other brands and other companies, at other dates," said Dr. David Acheson, the chief medical officer with the FDA's Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition. See: E. coli outbreak spreads from tainted spinach

Marriage and Divorce in America

The statistics are alarming
KNN Staff

In 2004, 784 marriage licenses were issued in Clark County while 747 marriages were terminated, a 95% failure ratio. It is stunningly sad that for nearly every marriage license issued, a marriage is terminated in Clark County. No one wins in a divorce. Every family member is affected in a number of different ways. One third of all children are born out of wedlock, and 35 million have seen their parents divorce since 1970. Compared to children from intact families, children from broken homes are . . . 5 times more likely to live in poverty, 3 times more likely to be expelled from school, 12 times more likely to be jailed. Children from fatherless homes are . . .4 times more likely to abuse drugs and alcohol, 2-3 times more likely to experience physical and emotional health problems
2 times more likely to drop out of school, 5-10 times more likely to experience sexual activity and teen pregnancy.

FDA says viruses safe for treating meat

KNN-Cleveland

(AP) -- A mixture of six bacteria-killing viruses can be safely sprayed on meat and poultry to combat common microbes that kill hundreds of people a year, federal health officials said Friday.

61% of American Christians believe God wants them to be financially prosperous.

Preaching the prosperity gospel
KNN-Cleveland

"The debate about God and wealth is big and it's getting bigger," says David Van Biema, co-author of this week's cover story in Time magazine titled "Does God Want You to Be Rich?" Van Biema says the debate is being propelled, at least in part, by Joel Osteen's book, 'Your Best Life Now.' "That book really took the whole question of what's known as prosperity gospel out of a little subculture of evangelicalism and put it out there for everybody," he says. See complete article:Joel Osteen preaches the gospel of prosperity

Group pushes cervical cancer vaccine for 6th grade girls

By DAN BEWLEY

LANSING -- A bipartisan group of female state lawmakers is behind a bill that would require all sixth grade girls to be vaccinated in an effort to fight cervical cancer. The vaccine, called Gardasil, prevents infections from some strains of the sexually transmitted human papilloma virus, which has been found to cause cervical cancer and genital warts. If passed, the bill would be the first of its kind in the country. The Food and Drug Administration approved the vaccine in June for girls at least nine years old. Sherry Miedema is one mother who opposed the legislation. "I'm happy to have the experts make recommendations but then leave it up to the parents to make the choice," Miedema said. "I just feel each year there are more things introduced telling us parents what to do with and for our children, and I'm getting a little weary of it."

Sen. Beverly Hammerstrom (R-Monroe County) supports the legislation. "The test that the FDA has done has proven to be so fantastic that everybody is really excited, and they are going to prove safe over time," Hammerstrom said. The American Cancer Society estimates 9,700 women will be diagnosed with cervical cancer in 2006, with 3,700 fatal cases. Miedema said cervical cancer in Michigan is on the decline, citing a 48 percent decline in the past 12 years, compared to a 33 percent drop nationwide. She said the vaccine should not replace good parenting. "I feel this particular one we can teach the kids to abstain from pre-marital sex rather than give them a band-aid for something they've done after the fact," Miedema said. The bill, as with other school-required vaccines, has a provision allowing parents to opt out for medical, moral or philosophical reasons. The bill's supporters are hoping it passes the senate before lawmakers break later this month.

Gore speaks on Gobal Warming

KNN-Video

According to the National Academy of Sciences, the Earth's surface temperature has risen by about 1 degree Fahrenheit in the past century, with accelerated warming during the past two decades. There is new and stronger evidence that most of the warming over the last 50 years is attributable to human activities. Human activities have altered the chemical composition of the atmosphere through the buildup of greenhouse gases – primarily carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide. The heat-trapping property of these gases is undisputed although uncertainties exist about exactly how earth’s climate responds to them. Go to the Emissions section for much more on greenhouse gases.

Click here to see Gore video on global warming. (note: video quality is poor). Gore speech about the global warming

Support A Child receives a U.S. Department of Education Grant

KNN-St. Louis

Yah Chai! Support A Child recived a United State Department of Education Grant to provide fitness education and nutrtion education training to St. Louis public schools and recreation centers. We were the only recipient from the State of Missouri in a very competitive process. The award was $411,417 and the grant is for four years.

The purpose of the Carol M. White Physical Education Program is to provide funds to local educational agencies and community-based organizations (including faith-based organizations) to initiate, expand, and improve physical education programs (including after school programs) for students in one or more grades from kindergarten through 12 in order to make progress toward meeting State standards for physical education by providing funds for equipment, support, and the training and education of teachers and staff. For more information contact, Support A Child International, 5261 Delmar Blvd. Suite 216, St. Louis, MO 63108-1094, Project Director: Linda McClerklin, Email: SACINT@aol.com, (314) 454-9830.

This is another testimony of the blessings of Yah in the Seventh Realm of the Marriage of the Lamb.

Too much T.V.

Experts Warn of Dangers to Kids from Falling TVs
By Tovleeyah B. Israel-KNN Staff

The Consumer Product Safety Commission is sounding the alarm about an increase in childhood injuries caused by falling television sets and other furniture. TV and furniture "tip-over" accidents normally cause about five deaths a year, according to statistics from the Consumer Product Safety Commission. But so far this year there have been 10 children killed nationwide. Kristine Biggie, a trauma nurse at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, says her emergency room sees several serious cases a year: "Think how heavy a TV is when you lift it up, or a bookcase that can fall on them. It can cause severe crushing injuries, like severe brain damage, broken bones, internal organ injuries." She urges parents to put heavy TVs on low, well-built furniture, and to secure the cords and bolt rickety furniture to the wall so it can't topple over. And, she adds, make sure inviting toys aren't left on top of the TV, which could entice a young child to climb on top. (Original article written by KYW's Lynne Adkins)

Where you live can decide how long you live

Differences are so extreme it's as if there are ‘eight Americas,’ report says-Associated Press

WASHINGTON - Where you live, combined with race and income, plays a huge role in the nation's health disparities, differences so stark that a report issued Monday contends it's as if there are eight separate Americas instead of one. Murray analyzed mortality data between 1982 and 2001 by county, race, gender and income. He found some distinct groupings that he named the "eight Americas:"

-Asian-Americans, average per capita income of $21,566, have a life expectancy of 84.9 years.
-Northland low-income rural whites, $17,758, 79 years.
-Middle America (mostly white), $24,640, 77.9 years.
-Low income whites in Appalachia, Mississippi Valley, $16,390, 75 years.
-Western American Indians, $10,029, 72.7 years.
-Black Middle America, $15,412, 72.9 years.
-Southern low-income rural blacks, $10,463, 71.2 years.
-High-risk urban blacks, $14,800, 71.1 years.
-Longevity disparities were most pronounced in young and middle-aged adults.

A 15-year-old urban black man was 3.8 times as likely to die before the age of 60 as an Asian-American, for example. That's key, Murray said, because this age group is left out of many government health programs that focus largely on children and the elderly. See: Where you live can decide how long you live

United Nations recognizes ACRRA

Virgin Islands-KNN

The United Nations General Assembly has passed a resolution which historically gives respect, recognition, and endorsement to ACRRA’s Memorandum of Understanding with the Danish Institute for Human Rights and our efforts for reparations from Denmark for the people of the Virgin Islands. For more info contact: acrra.vi@gmail.com

Special 2006 National Jerusalem Brotherhood Issue

By Keymah B. N. Aharon-KNN Cleveland

From Aug. 31st – Sept. 4th ,2006 the brothers of the African Hebrew Israelite Community held their annual International Brotherhood Conference. This year’s brotherhood conference was a remarkable event. It captured the essence and true spirit of brotherhood in the 7th realm of the Marriage. Various members of Kingdom Leadership address the brotherhood regarding the need for the brother to realize their true power and the need for the brothers to elevate to their required roles of the New World designers and definers. The speakers consisted of Sar Amiel, Sar Malahk, Prince Rham, and Prince Asiel just to name a few.

Nasik Asiel Addresses the Brotherhood

The brothers were blessed to have our mighty International Ambassador Prince Asiel address us. He spoke to the need for the brothers to conquer our fear of being who we were created to be. He told us that he could see our greatness but could we see it in ourselves. He told us that we were chosen to be the saviors and redeemers of the brothers and sisters around the world that were searching for truth. Prince Asiel’s discourse really caused the brothers to go within themselves and take an evaluation of weather we have lived up to our calling or not. He said that we were in the season of expansion in the Kingdom of Yah and the brother must make that happen. All the brothers in attendance vowed to make this happen. Prince closed by saying that all of those that stayed true to their vow would be blessed, and everyone who didn’t would not.