Son of O'Jays lead singer reportedly found dead

Sean Levert, son of O'Jays lead singer Eddie Levert, was found dead in a Cleveland, Ohio, jail over the weekend
BY STELLA FOSTER
Sun-Times Columnist

Sean Levert, son of O'Jays lead singer Eddie Levert, was found dead in a Cleveland, Ohio, jail over the weekend, sources said.

Sean Levert, 39, was being held for allegedly failing to pay about $80,000 in child support. The cause of death was not immediately known.

Sean Levert was a member of the R&B group LeVert with his late brother Gerald Levert and Marc Gordon. Gerald Levert died Nov. 10, 2006 at the age of 40.

Sean Levert had recently completed an album with Gordon, sources said.
Sean Levert appeared in the movies Dope Case Pending (2000) and New Jack City (1991).

Has the 'notion of sin' been lost?

Is sin dead?
By Cathy Lynn Grossman
USA TODAY

Is sin dead? How can Christians celebrate Jesus' atonement for their sins and the promise of eternal life if they don't recognize themselves as sinners?

Take it from Pope Benedict XVI. He says the modern world "is losing the notion of sin." And not just personal sins such as greed, lust or the rest of the infamous Seven Deadlies, but social sins, too, such as polluting the planet or allowing injustice to flourish.

A new survey by Ellison Research in Phoenix finds 87% of U.S. adults believe in the existence of sin, which is defined as "something that is almost always considered wrong, particularly from a religious or moral perspective."

Topping the list are adultery (81%) and racism (74%).

But other sins no longer draw majority condemnation. Premarital sex? Only 45% call it sin. Gambling? Just 30% say it's sinful.

"A lot of this is relative. We tend to view sin not as God views it, but how we view it," says Ellison president Ron Sellers.

David Kinnaman, president of Barna Research, a company in Ventura, Calif., that tracks Christian trends, draws a similar conclusion: "People are quick to toe the line on traditional thinking" that there is sin "but interpret that reality in a very personal and self-congratulatory manner" — I have to do what's best for me; I am not as sinful as most.

Indeed, 65% of U.S. adults say they will go to heaven, and only 0.05% believe they'll go to hell, according to a 2003 Barna telephone survey of 1,024 adults.

See: Has the 'notion of sin' been lost? - USATODAY.com

What Americans Call Sin

USA Today






• Adultery: 81%

• Racism: 74%

• Using "hard" drugs, such as cocaine, LSD: 65%

• Not saying anything if a cashier gives you too much change: 63%

• Having an abortion: 56%

• Homosexual activity or sex: 52%

• Not reporting some income on your tax returns: 52%

• Reading or watching pornography: 50%

• Gossip: 47%

• Swearing: 46%

• Sex before marriage: 45%

• Homosexual thoughts: 44%

• Sexual thoughts about someone you are not married to: 43%

• Doing things as a consumer that harm the environment: 41%

• Smoking marijuana: 41%

• Getting drunk: 41%

• Gambling: 30%

• Not attending church or religious services regularly: 18%

• Drinking any alcohol: 14%

What are your plans for the future?

Medicare benefits are expected to depleted by 2019, and Social Security by 2041
Chicago Sun Times


Resources in the Medicare trust fund that pays hospital benefits are expected to depleted by 2019, and reserves in the Social Security trust fund are expected to be exhausted by 2041, according to an annual report from trustees.

Both dates are the same as last year.

"The financial difficulties facing Social Security and Medicare pose enormous challenges,'' the trustees said in their report. ''The sooner these challenges are addressed, the more varied and less disruptive their solutions can be.''

We’re spending so much money on Social Security and Medicare that the programs - which are larger than any other line item on our national budget up to and including defense spending and war spending - are actually going to run out of money. And the solution? Make Americans pay more for the programs while getting less out of them.

See: Social Security to run out of money

The Regenerative Health and Nutrition Program in Ghana has reached South Africa

Prince Immanuel spoke to the Land and Agriculture Committees, Culture Committee, and the Moral Regeneration Movement
by
Prince Immanuel Ben-Yehuda
KNN-Africa

The good news of the Regenerative Health and Nutrition Program in Ghana has reached South Africa and resulted in an invitation being extended to the African Hebrew Development Agency to send representation to meet with the National House of Traditional Leaders and attend the opening of the legislative season of the National House in Cape Town at the end of February.

Prince Immanuel Ben-Yehuda, the International Projects Director of AHDA and his Executive Assistant, Ahkote Yielah Eshet Nasik Gavriel attended the annual speech given by the South African President Thabo Mbeki, to African royalty, Kings, Chiefs, Queen Mothers, and delegations from South Africa and other SADAC countries, including Zimbabwe, Zambia and Namibia.















After the address by Mbeki, Prince Immanuel was invited to address the National House and explain to them the elements of Regenerative Health and Nutrition and also the Restoration Village Organic Agricultural Program presently being initiated in Ghana.

It is believed that these programs might have great impact in South Africa, especially being directed through the National House of Traditional Leaders as 70% of our people in rural areas remain under the leadership of Traditional Leaders.

Prince Immanuel spoke to the combination of the Land and Agriculture Committees along with the Culture Committee and then later met with representatives from the Moral Regeneration Movement to determine how the African Hebrew Development Agency might form a strategic partnership with NHTL to address the health conditions threatening the people in South Africa as well as initiate viable agricultural projects and education in rural areas to encourage young people to remain there.
















The Chosen First Fruit youth organization (CFF) of the African Hebrew Israelites were featured participants in a conference organized by the Moral Regeneration Movement in the Eastern Cape in 2005. Later the CFF delegations organized another MRM conference in Johannesburg.

"It is important to know that we have not come here as guests and visitors, but as members of the extended family who have come to join hands, and add our experience to the solving of problems which we see as affecting many of our communities across the African Continent and around the world. Meeting with the Traditional Leaders, who are recognized as the custodians of the land and the culture, two essential elements to ensure our future of strength is most essential if there is to be progress among our people,"

Prince Immanuel said. "The Traditional Leaders and their authority must continually be enhanced as so much of the richness of our past which has sustained us to this point, is under their care. Therefore, we should consistently turn our attention to and work through with and through them in conjunction with the governmental legislative bodies to ensure the progress of our people."Prince Immanuel was also the featured speaker at an engagement sponsored by the Hon. Jacqueline Mofokeng, ANC Parliamentary representative from Gauteng.

Cignon Introduces 2008 New World Passover Collection

Get Kingdom Fine with "Ghan Ha Cignon - Garden of Style" Attire
by
A. Eetiyah E. Rhavyah HaCohane
KNN-Dimona


Ghan Ha Cignon is proud to make available to our international family the "Jerusalem Fine" New World Passover 2008 Collection. Tailor made garments designed for you in our international color for this year (standard red) can be ordered now!!

Innovative designs from Jerusalem with embroidery and or print are included on every garment.

Brothers and young male adults garments only: $65.00

Sisters and young female adults garments only: $65.00

Children garments: $40.00

Family/Entity rates are available and negotiable based on family/entity size. Shipping not included.

Garments for those traveling up to Jerusalem can be picked up at Cignon. Lifeline for all orders is March 31, 2008!!!!!

For more info contact: Acote Eetiyah E. Rhavyah HaCohane
International Sales and Marketing Representative
Email: hacignon@gmail.com

Fifth largest investment bank in US collapses

80-Year-Old Bear Stearns' Fall - Ripple Effect Felt
by Adam Davidson
NPR.org



The collapse of Bear Stearns, the country's fifth largest investment bank, is big news on Wall Street, but is it also affecting everyday people - the kind of people who work right in Bear Stearns' neighborhood?

Bear Stearns' collapse has a clear, direct impact on a few thousand people. Investors lost billions. Many of the 14,000 thousand employees might lose their jobs.

Other banks in serious trouble

Yes, and everyone is asking who's most at risk. Some of the names mentioned most frequently are UBS and Lehman Brothers, both of which have a lot of exposure to subprime and mortgage-related securities. Shares of UBS dropped more than 14 percent in Zurich on Monday, after news reports suggested the company is weighing deep cuts in jobs and assets and might sell off its U.S. brokerage business.

Lehman, meanwhile, recently announced it was laying off 5 percent of its workforce. At one point, Lehman shares plummeted 48 percent on Monday. The stock closed down 19 percent, despite assurances from Lehman's CEO that the company was not having cash flow problems. The firm is one of several financial institutions that will report quarterly results on Tuesday, and investors are bracing for news of further losses.

"All of them could cause significant market volatility," Randy Frederick, director of derivatives at Charles Schwab & Co Inc., told Reuters. "Fear is higher now than it has been in a long time."

African Hebrew Israelite healthy lifestyle model for the Caribbean

This historical event will make a tremendous impact the health, environment and economy of Jamaica
Written by Sharon Parris-Chambers
Submitted by Sis. Ahmahlyah E.S. Elyahshuv

Ben Tsedek Ben Yehdua, representing Everlasting Life Health Complex and Soul Vegetarian Restaurant will be exhibiting his conscious and healthy lifestyle model at the Caribbean VeggieFest and Health Tourism & Spa Conference.

Accompanying Ben Tsedek will be Minister of Agriculture for the African Hebrew Israelite nation of Jerusalem who will establish official diplomatic eternal relationship for mutual benefit to Jamaica as well as The Hebrew Israelite Nation of Jerusalem. The Minister will be arriving in Jamaica on March 13, 2008 and returning to Israel on April 4, 2008.

Dr. Minister Yadiel and his delegation will be meeting with relevant government officials to present his proposal on sustainability i.e. Organic Agricultural Training, Experimentation and Bio Diesel Production, which will foster economic development and employment in the rural areas of Jamaica. Dr. Yadiel will be giving an overview of his land acquisition in Clarendon (Spring Plain) and discussing his NGO achievement at the VeggieFest and Health Tourism & Spa Conference.

This historical event will make a tremendous impact the health, environment and economy of Jamaica and the Caribbean region, vis a vie Caricom and the CSME. Accompanying Dr. Sar Yadiel, will be other members of his delegation, Minister Malak Ben Israel, Director of Hasarah NGO, who will tour the island, as well as, meet with groups of indigenous Herbalists, Healers and representatives of the Jamaica Organic Agricultural Association and organic farmers and farming communities.

This would enhance their learning of the Jamaican Cultural milieu as well as give them the avenue to imparting his/their knowledge to our people.

Time permitting the delegation will be stage a speaking engagement at the University of Technology and or University of the West Indies.

Programme Sponsored by: Jamaica Ministry of Tourism, Jamaica Tourist Board, Jamaica Trade & Invest, Private Sector Development Programme, Jamaica Business Development Centre, Jamaica Tourist Board, Jamaica Wellness Network, Tourism Product Development Co., Resort & Day Spa Association, Sunday Herald Newspaper, Rhodes Hall Plantation, Hot 102 FM, Positive Tourism Network, Day Spa Association, International Medical Spa Association, Reggae Drops Water, JNN TV, HOT 102 FM, News 93 FM, Positive Tourism VIP Club & The Duty Free Association Entry to the venue is free; however, there is a charge for seminars designed for professional spa and wellness practitioners.

The event runs from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. both days. For more details visit: http://www.caribbeanveggiewellness.com/ or call Positive Tourism Limited at 876-381-1591 or 957-9243.

Dead Man's Body Used in Attempt To Cash Check

By SARAH GARLAND
Staff Reporter
The New York Sun

Two men used an office chair to wheel a dead man to a Midtown check-cashing establishment yesterday and attempted to cash his Social Security check, police said. The men were detained by police after onlookers noticed the dead body falling from side to side as the men pushed him along Ninth Avenue near 52nd street — but not before they entered the Pay-O-Matic check-cashing store and attempted to cash his check. The dead man, identified by police as Virgilio Cintron, 66, was the roommate of one of the suspects. He apparently died of natural causes, police said. The suspects lived around the corner from the Pay-O-Matic, and were known to the employees there.

The roommate and a third man, who was a friend of the deceased, reportedly left Cintron outside as they entered the establishment, pointing to him through the window when the cashier told them that Cintron would have to be present to cash the check, according to the police account. When the cashier asked them to bring Cintron inside, they exited the building, where they were confronted by an on-duty Real Time Crime Center detective who had been in the building next door when he noticed the commotion. The two men were taken into police custody, where they were questioned and may face charges related to criminal impersonation or check fraud. Cintron was taken to the hospital, where he was declared dead. Police did not disclose the exact amount of the check, but said it was small.

KNN: This story was written on January 9, 2008.

Tornado Tears Through Atlanta

Another Storm Follows Atlanta Twister
By DORIE TURNER
Associated Press

ATLANTA (March 15) - Crews hauled broken glass and furniture out of downtown streets Saturday and homeowners surveyed damage caused by a tornado that caught residents and basketball fans by surprise.

More thunderstorms headed across northern Alabama toward the city Saturday. "We're bracing for another round of whatever mother nature throws at us," said Lisa Janak of the state emergency management agency.

The National Weather Service posted a tornado watch for a large area of Georgia, including the Atlanta area, plus portions of South Carolina and Alabama, and a warning was issued for parts of northern Alabama and northwestern Georgia.

At least 27 people were hurt Friday night, though no injuries were believed to be life-threatening.

All downtown events scheduled for Saturday were canceled, including the St. Patrick's Day parade."It's a mess," Janak said.

See: Rips Into Arena During Game

Dollar hits all-time low against euro and yen

The dollar fell to its weakest ever
International Herald Tribune

NEW YORK: The dollar fell to the weakest ever against the euro and to an eight-year low vs. the yen after a government report showed the United States unexpectedly lost jobs for a second straight month in February.

The U.S. currency touched an all-time low against the euro for the eighth trading day in nine as the report bolstered speculation that the Federal Reserve will cut the benchmark interest rate as much as a full percentage point to 2 percent at a policy meeting scheduled for March 18.

"There is the view that we're quickly sinking into recession and that the Fed only has a limited ability to offset that," said Michael Woolfolk, senior currency strategist in New York at the Bank of New York Mellon. "We certainly see more dollar weakness from here."

The dollar traded at $1.5426 at 8:44 a.m. in New York from $1.5380 Thursday, and touched $1.5459, the weakest level since the euro's debut in 1999. The U.S. currency traded at ¥101.68 from ¥102.67 Thursday, and fell to the lowest since January 2000.

The economy lost 63,000 jobs in February, after a decline of 22,000 in January, the Labor Department said.

See: Dollar hits all-time low against euro - International Herald Tribune

Chicago's Ahk Zarakyah hits the air waves with special guests Dead Prez

THIS WEEK ON SOUL REPATRIATION RADIO--DEAD PRECEDENTS WITH SPECIAL GUESTS DEAD PREZ
KNN-Chicago

LISTEN TO THE VOICE OF THE NEW WORLD--SOUL REPATRIATION RADIO ON WHPK 88.5 FM CHICAGO THE ONLY PLACE ON THE AIRWAVES WHERE TRUTH HAS THE INHERENT POWER TO PRODUCE THE PROMISED EFFECTS...

THIS WEEK (THURSDAY MAR. 13TH @ 12 NOON CST) ON SOUL REPATRIATION RADIO, WE WILL CONTINUE OUR DISCUSSION ON CHANGE VS. REVOLUTION WITH SPECIAL GUESTS DEAD PREZ!!!

IN JUST THE PAST TWO WEEKS, IT'S GOTTEN MUCH THICKER OUT HERE--OIL IS OVER $109 A BARREL, RANDOM SHOOTINGS, SCHOOL CHILDREN DYING, THE ECONOMY IS FALLING APART, AND A BLACK PRESIDENT IS BECOMING MORE AND MORE POSSIBLE IS CHANGE REALLY ENOUGH OR IS IT TIME FOR SOMETHING A BIT MORE DRASTIC--UPHEAVAL MAYBE, REVOLUTION CERAINLY...

WE WILL DELVE FURTHER IN DEPTH AS TO WHAT THIS REVOLUTION MUST ENTAIL--WHAT ARE WE REVOLTING FROM, WHERE TO? WE WILL ANALYZE PAST "REVOLUTIONS" AND THE CONCEPTS OF PAST REVOLUTIONARIES IN ORDER TO SHINE LIGHT ON OUR PATH FORWARD!

WE WILL ALSO REVIEW THE DEMISE OF PREVIOUS CIVILIZATIONS IN ORDER TO GAIN INSIGHT AS TO THE DEATH OF THE PRESENT IT AIN'T JUST ENOUGH TO WEAR RED, BLACK, AND GREEN ARMBAND AND MALCOLM X BUTTONS, OR TO VOTE FOR A BLACK PRESIDENT--FREEDOM HAS A CRITERIA

WE WILL ALSO ANALYZE THE CURRENT SOCIAL PLIGHT AS A BACKDROP OF THE INEVITABLE--GET OUT BEFORE YOU GET CAUGHT!

SOUL REPATRIATION RADIO IS HEARD WORLDWIDE ON: WWW.WHPK.ORG

Dr. Sar Yadiel to speak at Caribbean Veggie Fest

Today is the first day program of the Caribbean Veggie Fest
by Sis. Ahmahlyah E. S. Elyahshuv
KNN - Dimona

The Caribbean Veggie Fest is proud to announce the merger of three (3) leading wellness segments (health, spa and culinary) under one roof, comprising VeggieFest, Health Tourism & Spa Conference scheduled for March 15-16, 2007 at the breath taking Rhodes Hall Plantation located between Orange Bay and Green Island, Hanover, Jamaica.

The culinary section will have a focus on every conceivable type of vegetarian food available in the Caribbean including five star gourmet preparations, raw foods, healthy juices, natural pies, natural herbs & spices, natural wines (from plant sources). Exhibitors will include vegetarian restaurants, vegetarian food purveyors, juice makers, natural seasoning producers, herb growers, and a farmers market.

The health section will take a more professional approach by having wellness professionals from around the world sharing their knowledge and expertise in the form of workshops and seminars. This section is usually reserved for individuals who are in the health and wellness industries and are looking to improve their skills, knowledge and marketing strategies.

Opening Programme Ceremony and Ribbon Cutting

9:00 a.m. Welcome by Sharon Chambers, Co-Producer

9:05 a.m. Opening remarks by Theo and Sharon Chambers, Founders & Co-Producers

9:10 a.m. Greetings: Dr. Reinhard Bergel, Day Spa Association, USA

9:15 a.m. Greetings: Karen Ford Warner, Executive Director, Tourism Product Development Co.
9:25 a.m. Greetings: Harold Davis, Executive Director, Jamaica Business Development Centre

9:40 a.m. Greetings: Lisa Bell (Representing Robert Gregory), President, Jamaica Trade & Invest

9:45 a.m. Greetings: (Representative of the Ministry of Tourism)

Opening address:

9:55-10:30 Dr. Sar Yadiel Ben Israel, Minister of Agriculture , for the African Hebrew Israelite Nation of Jerusalem

10:35 a.m. Ribbon Cutting - End of Ceremonial Programme: Drumming, IIon Station

Tour of Exhibitions (Culinary/Health/Spa)

Programme Sponsored by: Jamaica Trade & Invest, (PSDP), Jamaica Business Development Centre (JBDC), Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB), Jamaica Wellness Network, Tourism Product Development Co. (TPDCo), Resort & Day Spa Association, Sunday Herald Newspaper, Hot 102 FM, Positive Tourism Network.

Celebrating Yom L’Mokereem with Royal Appreciation

by Zia
Antigua Sun Newspaper

So, my first thought was, “I really need to get some African evening attire.”

There’s something so regal and sophisticated about men and women adorned in the beautiful garments, with their unique and intricate designs that are synonymous with African beauty and pride. So, even though I would’ve been “decked out” by Western standards, I couldn’t help but feel a bit underdressed in the company of men and women who had gathered to celebrate Yom L’Mokereem.

But garments and accessories were the last thing on anyone’s mind as members and friends of the Hebrew Israelite community gathered to celebrate a season of love.

Notably, the day itself was filled with celebration, as millions around the world show their appreciation and love for women in recognition of International Women’s Day; but within the millions, there were also thousands who recognised the day as not only a celebration or appreciation for women, but appreciation for everyone.

The African Hebrew Israelites of Jerusalem, abiding by the laws and lifestyle ascribed in the Old Testament, do not recognise nor celebrate Western events such as Christmas or Valentine's.

Yom L’Mokereem is a season of appreciation, where gifts are exchanged and people are celebrated. So without the hoopla of a fuss that accompanies the frenzy of Valentine’s Day or Christmas, gifts are exchanged “just because I appreciate you."

The Divine Day of Appreciation was celebrated in Antigua at the Saffron Restaurant in Jolly Harbour. With a healthy and scrumptious spread of vegan delights, the chatter was lively, the merriment in abundance and the genuine celebration for life, friendships and a close relationship with God was evident.

With prayers offered to God in the Hebrew tongue, the evening followed with the dinner, and then entertainment in the form of poetry, amusing skits and songs.

The members of the Hebrew Israelite community will tell you that their beliefs are not of a religious system, but a lifestyle based on the Old Testament. Theirs is a life filled with peace, an appreciation for life, education and the performing arts. But most importantly, with an offering of “Halleluyah” being heard ever so often, the most important element of their life is their praise of and relationship with Yah. In case you’re wondering, “Yah” is the Hebrew word for God.

One of the skits that I enjoyed was a two-man drama of one of the member's life changing experience when he was introduced to the “Kingdom of Yah”. Once living a life of parties, regular clubbing at Web (remember that night club, pretty close to where the Savoy Nightclub is located). Overwhelmed and completely mesmerised by his fellow Antiguan’s life change, Ammi Ben Israel, the young man returned to the God of his childhood days, accepted the teachings of the Old Testament and traded in his old Western influenced lifestyle, for one of peace, health and an enriching relationship with God.

Even though some may still not be able to understand, appreciate or even respect the Hebrew Israelite community and their lifestyle, there is a valuable lesson that we could all take from them and their celebration of Yom L’Mokereem. The lesson? To appreciate each other more, for no reason other than pure appreciation. The best type of appreciation or gift exchange? The one that’s given for no other sake than the sake of giving and showing the people around you that you love and appreciate them and their presence in their lives.
Happy Yom L’Mokereem to you from me!

Quarter of U.S. teen girls have sex-related disease

Forty-eight percent of black teen-age girls were infectedBy
by Will Dunham
Reuters News Service

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - More than one in four U.S. teen girls is infected with at least one sexually transmitted disease, and the rate is highest among blacks, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said on Tuesday.

An estimated 3.2 million U.S. girls ages 14 and 19 -- about 26 percent of that age group -- have a sexually transmitted infection such as the human papillomavirus or HPV, chlamydia, genital herpes or trichomoniasis, the CDC said.

Forty-eight percent of black teen-age girls were infected, compared to 20 percent of whites and 20 percent of Mexican American girls. The report did not give data on the broader U.S. Hispanic population.

"What we found is alarming," the CDC's Dr. Sara Forhan, who led the study, told reporters. "This means that far too many young women are at risk for the serious health effects of untreated STDs, including infertility and cervical cancer."

See: Quarter of teen girls have sex-related disease Reuters

Probe Finds Drugs in Drinking Water

A vast array of pharmaceuticals — including antibiotics, anti-convulsants, mood stabilizers and sex hormones — have been found in the drinking water
AOL News
Submittted by A. Zemrah E. Moriel

A vast array of pharmaceuticals — including antibiotics, anti-convulsants, mood stabilizers and sex hormones — have been found in the drinking water supplies of at least 41 million Americans, an Associated Press investigation shows.

But the presence of so many prescription drugs — and over-the-counter medicines like acetaminophen and ibuprofen — in so much of our drinking water is heightening worries among scientists of long-term consequences to human health.

In the course of a five-month inquiry, the AP discovered that drugs have been detected in the drinking water supplies of 24 major metropolitan areas — from Southern California to Northern New Jersey, from Detroit to Louisville, Ky.

Here are some of the key test results obtained by the AP:

--Officials in Philadelphia said testing there discovered 56 pharmaceuticals or byproducts in treated drinking water, including medicines for pain, infection, high cholesterol, asthma, epilepsy, mental illness and heart problems. Sixty-three pharmaceuticals or byproducts were found in the city's watersheds.

--Anti-epileptic and anti-anxiety medications were detected in a portion of the treated drinking water for 18.5 million people in Southern California.

--Researchers at the U.S. Geological Survey analyzed a Passaic Valley Water Commission drinking water treatment plant, which serves 850,000 people in Northern New Jersey, and found a metabolized angina medicine and the mood-stabilizing carbamazepine in drinking water.

--A sex hormone was detected in San Francisco's drinking water.

--The drinking water for Washington, D.C., and surrounding areas tested positive for six pharmaceuticals.

--Three medications, including an antibiotic, were found in drinking water supplied to Tucson, Ariz.

The situation is undoubtedly worse than suggested by the positive test results in the major population centers documented by the AP.

See: Probe Finds Drugs in Drinking Water - AOL News

Winter Storm Pounds Cleveland

Up to 2 feet of snow in some areas
KNN-Cleveland

The storm pounding the county is only expected to intensify as the night wears on, and the National Weather Service has issued a blizzard watch starting at 4 a.m.

A winter storm warning will continue through midnight Saturday.

The service is predicting 6 to 10 inches of snow in midday Saturday in our area — and as much as 10 to 15 inches in areas east of Interstate 71.

Freezing arctic winds of 20 to 30 mph are also expected to rake the area, leading to horrible visibility and drifting snow for drivers.

Blizzard conditions could set in Saturday as winds increase to 30 to 40 mph. Blizzard warnings are only issued when the weather service expects incredibly heavy snow to fall for several hours at a time.

The storm has already grounded dozens of flights at Hopkins International Airport in Cleveland.

Airport Director of Marketing Todd Payne said Continental Airlines has cancelled 60 percent of its affiliated flights for tonight and Southwest has cancelled 50 percent of its flights.

Hopkins remains open and a fleet of 25 plows are working to keep runways clear, Payne said. But those expecting to depart should anticipate delays, he said.

Sugarless Week and Live Week to Commence

Akote Hodahvyah-KNN Chicago

I pray that this message finds you all in excellent health and high spirits in this glorious season. Please be advised that Sugarless and Live Weeks are fast approaching.

In our pursuit of perfect health and Everlasting Life it has been decreed that four (4) times a year there will be a Sugarless Week and a Live Food Consumption Week. During Sugarless Week we will consume no sugar, honey, or other sweeteners that have not been approved by the Ministry of Divine Health. During Live Food Consumption Week we will consume the required live food diet.

Sugarless Week will commence on Yom Shee Shee (Friday) March 7, 2008 (at sundown) and end on Motsai Shabbat (Saturday) March 15, 2008 (at sundown).

Live Food Week will commence on Motsi Shabbat (Saturday) March 15, 2008 (at sundown) and end on Yom Shee Shee (Friday) March 21, 2008 (at sundown).

1 in every 100 adults in America are in jail

Study shows prison numbers high
NBC News

WASHINGTON -- For the first time in history more than one in every 100 adults in America are in jail or prison -- a fact that significantly impacts state budgets without delivering a clear return on public safety.

According to a new report released by the Pew Center on the States' Public Safety Performance Project, at the start of 2008, 2,319,258 adults were held in American prisons or jails, or one in every 99.1 men and women, according to the study. During 2007, the prison population rose by more than 25,000 inmates. In addition to detailing state and regional prison growth rates, Pew's report, One in 100: Behind Bars in America 2008, identifies how corrections spending compares to other state investments, why it has increased, and what some states are doing to limit growth in both prison populations and costs while maintaining public safety.

As prison populations expand, costs to states are on the rise. Last year alone, states spent more than $49 billion on corrections, up from $11 billion 20 years before. However, the national recidivism rate remains virtually unchanged, with about half of released inmates returning to jail or prison within three years. And while violent criminals and other serious offenders account for some of the growth, many inmates are low-level offenders or people who have violated the terms of their probation or parole.

See: One in 100 Adults behind bars

Yom L’mokireem

By Yehuda H. Cohane
KNN Staff













Around the world this week, many are celebrating Yom L’mokireem (a day of appreciation). The festive season / day, being officially inaugurated in Jerusalem sunset 27 February 2008, will find family, loved ones, admirers and well-wishers alike exclaiming “Khag Samayahk” or “Yom L’mokireem Samayahk”, loosely translated from Hebrew to mean have a happy joyous day of appreciation.

All too often we as members of the human family take each other for granted. Never really taking time to convey our gratitude or display in the midst of one another a great attitude towards the creator for blessing us with wonderful family and friends.

That is why contained in the Hebrew root (Yud, Koof, Resh =Yakar) from which the word mokireem derives, the Hebrew thought causes us to glean understanding when we take a cursory glimpse at the subsequent definitions that grow out of that root:

From Yud, Koof, Resh = valuable, expensive, dear, costly, beloved, rare, scarce, precious, dignity, to respect, to honor, to appreciate, to elevate the price of.

We must take a moment this season to introspect and inquire of ourselves if any of these aforementioned definitions truly embellish our thoughts of our brothers and sisters in this great-extended human family of ours. For thoughts such as this are the seedbeds of a heavenly new world.

Yom L’mokireem Samayahk

African Hebrew Israelites

American black community finds spiritual home in the Negev
By John L. Jackson, Jr.
and Ahmadiel Ben Yehuda
MyJewishLearning.com

African Hebrew Israelites, often referred to as Black Hebrews, are the largest organized group of African-American expatriates living anywhere in the world. The African Hebrew Israelites are the followers of Ben Ammi Ben Israel, who they believe received a vision in 1966 in which he was directed to return African-American descendants of the ancient Israelites to the Promised land, and to establish the long-awaited Kingdom of God on earth.

By 1967, Ben Ammi convinced approximately 400 African-Americans (largely from Chicago) to leave, America (known as the "Lands of the Great Captivity"), and travel to Israel. The first group of "returnees" arrived in Israel in 1969, after a brief sojourn in the wilderness of Liberia.

The movement can be understood in the context of the "great awakening" to historical roots and cultural identity that African-Americans underwent in the 1960s. The Hebrew Israelites maintain their return was not just to their ancestral homeland of Israel (which they consider northeastern Africa), but to a way of life that would testify to the power of God.

While only approximately 3,000 saints (as they call themselves) reside in Israel, thousands live across the US, Caribbean, Europe and Africa and identify with the community, living according to their doctrinal tenets.

Members of the community are vegans. Tobacco, drugs, and alcoholic beverages aside from naturally fermented wines are avoided. Regular exercise (three times weekly) is mandatory for all adults, as is a monthly massage. No-salt days, sugarless weeks, and live food weeks dot their calendar. According to the community's belief system, the choice of relationships, clothing, and music all matter where health is concerned, and every effort is made to create an environment conducive to healing. This consciousness is woven into the lifestyle, resulting in an admired comprehensive health literacy. In 2006, Ghana's Ministry of Health summoned a team from Dimona to assist in the development of a health and nutrition program crucial to that West African country.

See Complete Article: African Hebrew Article

The Ramle Seven-Book Tour

The Ramle Seven Book is now on sale
KNN-DC

Their confidence and calm belied the fact that they carried on their shoulders the hopes and fears of a people. And while some had never been to a jail before they were not afraid. This was their time to prove God was with them and no matter what… they were up to the challenge.

The incredible, inspiring story of the Ramle 7 recounts one of those rare moments in history when the principled stand of a few encapsulates the longings of generations. It is a testimony of when courage and commitment to righteousness yields the fruit of its seed and becomes the platform for the re-birth of heroism in a resurrected people.



Book Tour featuring Prince Rahm Ben Yehuda-Tour Schedule



ATLANTA Sunday, February 24, 2008 @ 2:00pm
Soul Vegetarian Restaurant
879 Ralph Abernathy Blvd - Atlanta, GA
tel: 404-752-5194

WASHINGTON-BALTIMORE METRO Saturday, March 8, 2008 @ 2:00pm
Everlasting Life
9185 Central Avenue, Capitol Heights, MD
tel: 202-797-8110


CHARLESTON, SC Sunday, March 23, 2008 @ 2:00 pm
Soul Vegetarian Complex 3225-A Rivers Ave. -
North Charleston, SC

CHICAGO, IL Saturday, March 29, 2008 @ 2:00pm
Soul Vegetarian Restaurant
205 East 75th St., Chicago, IL
tel: 773-224-0104

TALLAHASSEE, FL Sunday, April 13, 2008 @ 2:00 pm
Florida A & M University Tucker Hall, Room 200
3102 Martin Luther King Blvd. - Tallahassee, FL

Order a copy of your book today at: http://www.kingdomofyah.com/index.html

Airline in first biofuel flight

The first flight by a commercial airline to be powered partly by biofuel has taken place
BBC News

A Virgin Atlantic jumbo jet has flown between London's Heathrow and Amsterdam using fuel derived from a mixture of Brazilian babassu nuts and coconuts.

Environmentalists have branded the flight a publicity stunt and claim biofuel cultivation is not sustainable.

Earlier this month, Airbus tested another alternative fuel - a synthetic mix of gas-to-liquid.
Virgin boss Sir Richard Branson said the flight marked a "vital breakthrough" for the entire airline industry.

"This pioneering flight will enable those of us who are serious about reducing our carbon emissions to go on developing the fuels of the future," he said.

But he said fully commercial biofuel flights were likely to use feedstocks such as algae rather than the mix used on the passenger-less flight.

Virgin's Boeing 747 had one of its four engines connected to an independent biofuel tank that it said could provide 20% of the engine's power.

Special Holy Day Series - The Biblical High Holy Days

Special 3-Disc Set is now available
KNN Staff












Yah Khai!!!! Shalom Family. As you know the Holy Day season for 2008 is swiftly approaching.

To aid you in getting a more in depth understanding of these sacred Holy Days, KNN in conjunction with Yehuda Ha Cohen has produced an exhaustive teaching and study aid on the meaning of the Sacred Days.

Don't miss out on the opportunity to get your own personal set for his years Holy Days.

If you are interested in obtaining your 3-disc set please contact Ahtur Keymah at keymah777@aol.com for more details.


"Now these are the commandments, the statutes, and the judgments, which your Yah commanded to teach you, that ye might do them in the land whither ye go to possess it:

That thou mightest fear thy Yah, to keep all his statutes and his commandments, which I command thee, thou, and thy son, and thy son's son, all the days of thy life; and that thy days may be prolonged.

Hear therefore, O Israel, and observe to do it; that it may be well with thee, and that ye may increase mightily, as the Yah of thy fathers hath promised thee, in the land that floweth with milk and honey.

Hear, O Israel: the Lord our Yah, is one: And thou shalt love thy Yah with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might.

And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart: And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up.

And thou shalt bind them for a sign upon thine hand, and they shall be as frontlets between thine eyes. And thou shalt write them upon the posts of thy house, and on thy gates.

Deuteronomy 6:1-9

U.S. sees largest meat recall in history

The subject of an animal-abuse investigation, that provided meat to school lunch programs
By Greg Risling
Associated Press Writer
Sbmitted by Laviyah E. Nahum-KNN

LOS ANGELES - The U.S. Department of Agriculture on Sunday ordered the recall of 143 million pounds of frozen beef from a California slaughterhouse, the subject of an animal-abuse investigation, that provided meat to school lunch programs.

Officials said it was the largest beef recall in the United States, surpassing a 1999 ban of 35 million pounds of ready-to-eat meats.

"Today marks the largest beef recall in U.S. history, and it involves the national school lunch program and other federal food and nutrition programs," said U.S. Sen. Tom Harkin, chairman of the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry. "This begs the question: how much longer will we continue to test our luck with weak enforcement of federal food safety regulations?"

Everlasting Life on Fox 5-D.C.

Health Food Stores Reach Out to African Americans
KNN-DC

Tens of millions of Americans enjoy soul food, but it's packed with calories and fat that many blame for epidemic levels of diabetes and heart problems. Today, more African-Americans are seeking out healthier foods and the vegan movement in DC is changing the minds and appetites of many. Fox 5's Allison Seymour has details.

Click Here to See Fox 5's Live Video: Everlasting Life Fox 5

Washington DC Mayor Anthony Williams Visits Everlasting Life D.C.

Mayor Williams holding a press conference at the Everlasting Life Annex where he emphasized his commitment to the businesses on Georgia Avenue in D.C.

Mayor Williams visiting the Everlasting Life Health Complex and Organic Market

Mayor Williams inside the Everlasting Life Juicebar and hot foods section speaking with the founder of Everlasting Life, Brother Baruch.

Erykah Badu finds kinship with Hebrew Israelites

She made a point of seeking out the Hebrew Israelites
By Lamia Lahoud
The Jerusalem Post

When R&B star Erykah Badu landed in Israel this month, she wasn't only interested in performing to promote her upcoming album, New Amerykah. She also made a point of seeking out the Hebrew Israelites (also known as the Black Hebrews), the Dimona-based group of African Americans who settled in Israel nearly 40 years ago.

"I know the community mostly for its art and culture… and of course its food, I eat at their restaurants," she said.

After meeting with several members of the Hebrew Israelite community for lunch at the Taste of Life restaurant in downtown Tel Aviv, Badu remarked, "they make you feel like taking off your shoes... it feels like home."

Badu, of course, isn't the only international star to have taken a special interest in the Hebrew Israelite community. Stevie Wonder, Whitney Houston and Motown legend Kim Weston are among some of the other big names who have been drawn to visit and perform with the Dimona settlers. When asked why musicians like herself feel attracted to the community, Badu retorted, "You mean musicians of color? Well, we all come from the same source... we are all related.

"As musicians we already work for a higher source, whether we know it or not, and when musicians come to the Holy Land and find other African Americans doing the same, they feel connected. Their music comes from the same source - Africa and spirituals. There is something in the tones - the frequency of tones that brings you home - it's genetically encoded."

This year the Hebrew Israelites are celebrating the anniversary of their integration into Israeli society by building their first kibbutz, where they will grow organic vegetables to support their vegan diet and nurture the many musical talents in their community. Today they number 3,000, and are the largest African American community outside the US - praying to the God of Israel, sending their children to the Israeli army, and of course, creating soul music.

Badu was amazed to learn about the success of the community in Israel and was especially interested in meeting its musicians, who are known for their Songs of Deliverance, primarily aimed at praising "Yah", the God of Israel. For Badu, whose music stems from a similarly spiritual perspective, there was an immediate kinship. "I am the first soul artist in America to address music from a spiritual teacher perspective," she said. "I consider myself a student, but my music comes from a teacher's point of view."

Badu was also eager to philosophize, if somewhat cryptically, about the positive changes unfolding for African Americans around the world. "Change is coming, there is definitely something happening... it's something good. It's like we have paid our cosmic debt as a people, as if our chains are being shattered," she explained, leaning forward and shaking the many bracelets around her wrist.

"Americans have an election year coming up. Barack Obama, a man of color, is running for president. He came out of nowhere. And here in Israel, the Hebrew Israelite community have reached the biblically symbolic 40 year landmark… Astrologically we are moving into the age of Aquarius, which represents knowledge and we have just completed the year of Pisces, which represents belief. If you believe in something strongly enough, it will come to pass."

Her astrological beliefs hold true, she said, for the peace process between Israelis and Palestinians. "We all need to take a united decision, and then make a plan and implement it. It may take a few generations, but then it too will come to pass."

After meeting with the Hebrew Israelites, Badu and members of her crew held hands and prayed together in Hebrew. "Later this year in Dimona," she promised, saying that she would definitely return for a visit to the community.

Badu's double album New Amerykah will be released in stages, the first disc coming out on February 26.

WWW.YAHKHAI.COM is now online!!!!!

Kingdom Videos and live content from Yahkai.com 24/7
Ahk Chashavyah Yisrael
KNN-Houston

Shalom family please visit www.yahkhai.com/ to view "The 45 Second Vision" by Ben Ammi.

www.yahkhai.com/ will introduce the world to Kingdom of Yah video's and live content from Dimona & Worldwide 24 hours a day 7 days of the week.

www.yahkhai.com/ will be coming soon to www.kingdomofyah.com . Todah!!!!

Enjoy!!!!

News Release: To Our Extended Family and Friends:

All members of the African Hebrew Israelite Community are safe and accounted for
Ministry of Information
Washington DC

Thank you for the many prayers, calls and letters of support in the wake of the recent suicide bombing attack in the city of Dimona, Israel. Please know that all members of the African Hebrew Israelite Community, the Village of Peace are safe and accounted for.

On Feb. 4, a suicide bomber entered the commercial center in the middle of town and detonated a belt of explosives. Another attacker was killed by security police on the scene before he could do the same. As a result, one person was killed in addition to the assailants and 10 were wounded. Our hearts go out to the families of those harmed. While some were in the area, none of the brothers and sisters from our community, were harmed in this, the first ever incident of its kind in Dimona’s 50 year-history.

Dimona remains home to a diverse population - Jews, Arabs, Moroccans, Indians, Russians, Ethiopians and more -- who have lived without violence over the years. With the Village of Peace at its center, Dimona will remain the beacon of hope and light to so many, around the world who long to see peace and sensitivity prevail in a troubled world.

Thank you

"Euros Accepted" signs pop up in New York City

The latest example that the U.S. dollar just ain't what it used to be
Reuters News Service

NEW YORK (Reuters) - In the latest example that the U.S. dollar just ain't what it used to be, some shops in New York City have begun accepting euros and other foreign currency as payment for merchandise.

"We had decided that money is money and we'll take it and just do the exchange whenever we can with our bank," Robert Chu, owner of East Village Wines, told Reuters television.

The increasingly weak U.S. dollar, once considered the king among currencies, has brought waves of European tourists to New York with money to burn and looking to take advantage of hugely favorable exchange rates.

"We didn't realize we would take so much in and there were that many people traveling or having euros to bring in. But some days, you'd be surprised at how many euros you get," Chu said.

"Now we have to get familiar with other currencies and the (British) pound and the Canadian dollars we take," he said.

While shops in many U.S. towns on the Canadian border have long accepted Canadian currency and some stores on the Texas-Mexico border take pesos, the acceptance of foreign money in Manhattan was unheard of until recently.

Not far from Chu's downtown wine emporium, Billy Leroy of Billy's Antiques & Props said the vast numbers of Europeans shopping in the neighborhood got him thinking, "My God, I should take euros in at the store."

Leroy doesn't even bother to exchange them.

"I'm happy if I take in 200 euros, because what I do is keep them," he said. "So when I go back to Paris, I don't have to go through the nightmare of going to an exchange place."

(Reporting by Angela Moore, writing by Bill Berkrot; Editing by Doina Chiacu)

The Large US Companies That May Disappear In 2008

Here are the big ones that probably won't make it
24/7 Wall St.

Firestone. American Motors. Texaco. Pan Am. Worldcom. At one point or another these large American companies were at the top of their industries. Pan Am was the leading global airline for decades. All are gone. Some were sold off. Others went bankrupt. Who could have predicted it?

There are several iconic US companies that may well not exist at the end of 2008. Some may not even make it halfway through the year. Not all will go out of business. Some may simply be auctioned off in pieces. Others may be bought. These companies will not exist in their current forms as they are known to their shareholders and consumers now.

When a company ceases to exist as an independent entity, it is not necessarily bad for shareholders. Some may be worth more in parts. Often a bust-up or merger is what brings owners the most money.

Here are the big ones that probably won't make it.

See who these companies are: http://www.247wallst.com/2008/01/the-large-us-co.html

KNN Celebrates its 2nd Anniversary

Thanks to everyone for 2 wonderful years
Ahtur Keymah B.N. Aharon
KNN-Cleveland

Greeting family and friends. We at KNN are blessed to announce that this month we will celebrate our 2nd year of reporting on breaking news around the world. It has been our divine honor in serving you and keeping you up to date on events occurring within all sectors of society and within the Hebrew Israelite Community. It is our prayer that our articles have been informative, enlightening, and thought provoking.

Within these past 2 years we have had over 30,000 people visit KNN and we are excited about reaching even more people in the years to come. It is our goal to continue to provide you with up to date news articles that will give you a broader understanding about the world that we all live.

Thank you again for all of your support and for plugging in to KNN. Peace and Blessings.

Fliers will have to pay to check a second bag

United on Monday became the first major U.S. carrier to impose a $25 fee each way on domestic passengers
By Marilyn Adams
USA Today News

Millions of passengers who like to pack heavily on trips soon will have to pay extra to check a second bag on United Airlines (UAUA).

Citing the extraordinary cost of jet fuel, United on Monday became the first major U.S. carrier to impose a $25 fee each way on domestic passengers who buy the cheapest tickets and check two suitcases. Checking a third bag will cost an additional $100 each way.

Until now, checking two bags on flights has been free on United, the USA's No. 2 airline, and every other major carrier.

But luggage is heavy, and extra weight requires more fuel to transport. In the October-December quarter, fuel cost United $1.4 billion, 26% more than a year earlier. Fuel is airlines' largest expense, eclipsing wages.

"The passenger who checks two bags should pay the extra cost of carrying two bags," said Robin Urbanski, spokeswoman for the Chicago-based carrier.

See: Fliers will have to pay to check a second bag

Metabolic Syndrome Linked to Diet Soda

People who drink diet have a 34 percent higher risk of heart disease and diabetes
AOL News

People who drink one diet soda a day have a 34 percent higher risk of factors leading to heart disease and diabetes than those who do not, a study finds. The report's co-author says it's unclear whether the jump is caused by chemicals in the drinks or a behavioral pattern common to diet soda lovers.

See: Metabolic Syndrome Linked to Diet Soda

The Earth Enters a New Epoch In History

Man's Impact On The Planet Brings About New Epoch In Earth's History
ScienceDaily

Geologists from the University of Portsmouth are proposing that humankind has so changed the earth that it has brought about an end to one epoch of earth’s history and marked the start of another. They believe that human dominance has so physically altered the earth that the Holocene epoch has ended and we have entered a new epoch - the Anthropocene.

Dr Andrew Gale of the University of Portsmouth and his colleagues on the Stratigraphy Commission of the Geological Society of London identified the major causes of human impact on the planet and discovered that the last 200 years had caused more impact then previously understood.

They examined phenomena such as changes in the patterns of sediment erosion and deposition, major disturbances to the carbon cycle and global temperature, ocean acidification and wholesale changes to the world’s plants and animals.

“Human activity has become the number one driver of most of the major changes in Earth's topography and climate, said Dr Gale. “You can’t have 6.5 billion people living on a planet the size of ours and exploiting every possible resource without creating huge changes in the physical, chemical and biological environment which will be reflected dramatically in our geological record of the planet.”

See: Man's Impact On The Planet Brings About New Epoch In Earth's History

One Great Sandwich: Soul Vegetarian East's BBQ Twist

Soul Vegetarian East, a well-known spot serving up plates of soul food seen through vegan lenses
Chicagoist.com

Soul Veg's owners, African Hebrew Israelites, may maintain a vegan diet for religious reasons, but the food itself draws a wide range of diners to 75th street. Everyone from local businessmen to families; from U of C students to North Side vegans can be found at the simple tables and chairs in the modesty-decorated restaurant for cheap plates of favorites like collard greens, carrot supreme salad and veggie gyros.

But don't let the promise of "vegan" food fool you into thinking this is necessarily diet food: if the delicious chicken nugget-esque "protein tidbits" are any indication, you might need to loosen up your belt if you're a regular visitor. But for vegetarians and vegans looking for a good guilty pleasure nosh, we'll see you at Soul Veg.

That said, a recent sojourn to the south side neighborhood of Chatham might have made us a mock meat convert. Soul Vegetarian East, a well-known spot serving up plates of soul food seen through vegan lenses. Although we sampled a few of the restaurant's varied sandwich offerings, the waitress's recommendation of BBQ Twist ended up being the big winner. The mock meat at Soul Veg is unlike any we've sampled elsewhere--even in the huge, riblet-like chunks that are served up on a simple bun and topped with lettuce, the pieces maintained a surprisingly fibrous texture. BBQ pork and chicken sandwiches were popular in this writer's house growing up, but slathered in Soul Veg's sweet and mild BBQ sauce, this incarnation retains a chewy, juicy quality that we'd venture to guess could even convert our meat-loving parents.

Soul Vegetarian East is located at 205 E 75th St.

Fingerprints are now being required for international travel

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced today that it has begun collecting additional fingerprints from international visitors
Forbes.com

WASHINGTON, Feb. 1 /PRNewswire/ -- The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced today that it has begun collecting additional fingerprints from international visitors arriving at George Bush Houston Intercontinental Airport (Bush Intercontinental). The change is part of the department's upgrade from two- to 10-fingerprint collection to enhance security and facilitate legitimate travel by more accurately and efficiently establishing and verifying visitors' identities.

"Biometrics have revolutionized our ability to prevent dangerous people from entering the United States since 2004. Our upgrade to 10-fingerprint collection builds on our success, enabling us to focus more attention on stopping potential security risks," US-VISIT Director Robert Mocny said.

For more than four years, U.S. Department of State (DOS) consular officers and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers have been collecting biometrics -- digital fingerprints and a photograph -- from all non-U.S. citizens between the ages of 14 and 79, with some exceptions, when they apply for visas or arrive at U.S. ports of entry.

Bush Intercontinental is the next port of entry to begin collecting 10 fingerprints from international visitors. Washington Dulles International Airport began 10-fingerprint collection on November 29, 2007. Thus far, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, Boston Logan International Airport, and Chicago O'Hare International Airport have also begun 10- fingerprint collection. Five other airports will soon begin collecting additional fingerprints, including: San Francisco International Airport, Miami International Airport, Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport, Orlando International Airport, and New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport. The remaining airports, seaports and land border ports of entry will transition to collecting 10 fingerprints by the end of 2008. See: DHS Begins Collecting 10 Fingerprints From International Visitors at ...

Satellite is weeks away from hitting Earth

A large U.S. spy satellite has lost power & could hit the Earth in late February
CNN.COM

WASHINGTON (AP) -- A large U.S. spy satellite has lost power and propulsion and could hit the Earth in late February or March, government officials said Saturday.

A senior government official says lawmakers and other nations are being kept apprised of the situation.

The satellite, which no longer can be controlled, could contain hazardous materials, and it is unknown where on the planet it might come down, they said. The officials spoke on condition of anonymity because the information is classified as secret.

"Appropriate government agencies are monitoring the situation," said Gordon Johndroe, a spokesman for the National Security Council. "Numerous satellites over the years have come out of orbit and fallen harmlessly. We are looking at potential options to mitigate any possible damage this satellite may cause.

He would not comment on whether it is possible for the satellite to be perhaps shot down by a missile. He said it would be inappropriate to discuss any specifics at this time. A senior government official said that lawmakers and other nations are being kept apprised of the situation.

The largest uncontrolled re-entry by a NASA spacecraft was Skylab, the 78-ton abandoned space station that fell from orbit in 1979. Its debris dropped harmlessly into the Indian Ocean and across a remote section of western Australia.

In 2000, NASA engineers successfully directed a safe de-orbit of the 17-ton Compton Gamma Ray Observatory, using rockets aboard the satellite to bring it down in a remote part of the Pacific Ocean.

In 2002, officials believe debris from a 7,000-pound science satellite smacked into the Earth's atmosphere and rained down over the Persian Gulf, a few thousand miles from where they first predicted it would plummet.

Ghana Health Ministry To Expand Regenerative Health Programme

The Ministry hopes to introduce it in 50 other districts this year
Source: GBC NEWS

The Ministry of Health, as part of its paradigm shift has introduced the Regenerative Health and Nutrition Programme which it has been successfully launched in 10 districts. The Ministry hopes to introduce it in 50 other districts this year. A statement issued by the Ministry said people from all walks of life including journalists have been sent to Dimona , Israel to understudy their concept and system.

It said beneficiaries of that trip assembled at the Manna Heights Hotel in Mankessim to review the concept and share their experiences and the way forward. After three-days of deliberation, participants came out with a communiqué which advocated the development of a national policy on cultivation of organically grown foods including vegetables and fruit and the production of regenerative health food and crops at reasonable cost.

It called for the introduction of health education and nutrition as examinable subjects in school curriculum and increasing access to potable water.

The Communiqué asked for a scale up in consultation with relevant stakeholders including establishing strategic partnerships with community radio stations, the programme of mass communication of the Regenerative health message at the national and district level including packaging the Regenerative message into local languages and the production of jingles as well as build capacity of change agents.

It noted that there is the need to explore options for setting up a National Commission on Regenerative Health and Nutrition and introduction of alternative and sustainable source of financing the programme.

The Communiqué suggested the empowerment of MPs, Chiefs and other opinion leaders to disseminate the Regenerative Health and Nutrition messages and lifestyles in collaboration with the Ghana AIDS Commission to promote the use of nutrition in the management of HIV and AIDS.

Regenerative Health and Nutrition Team from Dimona helps Cut Medical Costs in Ghana

Ghana Loses $762 Million Annually In Malaria Control
by Shirley Asiedu-Addo
Ghana General News

About $762 million is lost in controlling malaria in the country yearly. The loss includes labour loss, cost of transportation to facilities, cost to families and cost in treating patients.

According to the Minister of Health, Major Courage Quashigah (retd), if the cost of preventable and avoidable diseases continued to increase, it might be necessary to sell the country to pay for the ill-health of its people.Major Quashigah, who was addressing a meeting to review the new Regenerative Health and Nutrition Programme (RHNP) introduced to ensure good health by adopting healthy lifestyles, said, “It is important that the country work to ensure that limited resources are not wasted on preventable diseases.” Health service providers, district chief executives and media practitioners attended the meeting in Mankessim in the Central Region.

The RHNP was adopted from Dimona, Israel, where a community of about 3,500 African Hebrews live without encountering any diseases as a result of the programme. Major Quashigah stated that in the near future, all diseases would be costed to know their cost to the nation and the need to work to prevent them. He noted that since 2006, the RHNP had been piloted in 10 districts in seven regions of Ghana in the form of week-long training of change agents and advocates.

The minister stated that more than 700 change agents and 5,000 advocates had so far received training in RHNP across the country, adding that he expected them to work hard to touch the people in the communities and families to adopt the programme. He said it was unfortunate that eating junk food was associated with sophistication, adding that eating healthy foods, exercise and rest could do a lot of good to the body.

The Director of the programme, Dr Edward Addai, stated that RHNP had been found to be an important way of improving the lives of the people in any nation.He, therefore, urged all stakeholders to ensure that the programme was successful. The Omanhen of the Mankessim Traditional Area, Nana Amanfo Adu VI, urged the people to ensure the proper handling of fruits and vegetables to avoid contracting diseases.He also called on them to adopt personal hygiene and good environmental sanitation practices to ensure healthy living.

US To Launch New National ID

All Citizens Must Have "REAL ID" By 2009
PR Newswire

WASHINGTON, PRNewswire-USNewswire-- Under the final REAL ID regulations issued Friday by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), states will be required to verify Social Security numbers and immigration status before issuing driver's licenses beginning in October 2009. Residents of states that resist compliance with REAL ID could find their driver's license rendered useless for federal identification purposes as early as May 2008. These regulations represent an important breakthrough in the effort to enhance homeland security and the enforcement of laws against illegal immigration, says the Federation for American Immigration Reform (FAIR).

After formal comments submitted by the Immigration Reform Law Institute (IRLI), the legal affiliate of FAIR, final regulations now require verification of Social Security numbers and immigration status before a license may be issued and, unlike many of the other provisions of REAL ID, will be implemented by October 2009.

"Establishing that all people with state-issued driver's licenses or ID cards are legal residents of the United States is crucial to the effort to protect our nation's security and control mass immigration," commented Dan Stein, president of FAIR. "Preventing people who have no legal right to be in the country from obtaining these documents will make it more difficult to live and work here in violation of the law. This objective was the driving rationale behind the REAL ID Act."