Fliers, experts expect complications from AA's new bag fee

Fliers have expressed surprise and outrage to the move
USA Today

A day after American announced it would add a $15 fee for a first checked bag, customers and industry observers are still gauging the fallout from the move.

Fliers have expressed surprise and outrage to the move, while industry observers warn the new fee could further complicate the flying experience. MarketWatch.com suggests "the new baggage fee is likely to create havoc in airports and jet aisles as travelers try to beat the system by squeezing all their belongings into carried-on bags, further straining overhead bins' capacity. And it won't just be seasoned travelers but also newer ones, who might not know they can't bring aboard water bottles, razors or nail files, which will hold up the lines at security checks."

"Everyone is going to try to beat the system," Henry Harteveldt, an airline analyst with Forrester Research, predicts to MarketWatch.com. "When you can check your bags for free on Greyhound, but not on an airline, it's a sad comment on the state of the whole industry," he adds. The Chicago Tribune (free registration) writes AA "will rely on security screeners to remind passengers of restrictions that limit them to two carry-on items, and that the airline's workers also would be on the lookout for passengers toting overly large bags."

See: <http://www.usatoday.com/travel/flights/item.aspx?type=blog&ak=50259758.blog>

More US Companies Move to 4-Day Work Week

Gas Prices Drive 4-Day Work Week
Fox 8 News

RAVENNA, Ohio -- With the price of gas these days, more companies are giving their employees the option to work four-day work weeks.

One of those is Neighborhood Development Services in Ravenna.Executive Director Dave Vaughan says it will really help employees save some money and cut down on gas consumption.

If more companies did this, the demand for oil would be less and that would result in lower fuel costs.Some custodial workers at Kent State University will also have the same option to go to four day work weeks this summer.

Spokesperson Scott Rainone says "this is probably the trend we'll see as more companies try to become a little more competitive and try to recruit workers.

You might see this spreading everywhere because gas doesn't look like it'll get any cheaper anytime soon."Rainone says if it works out well this summer, the University may expand it to include more employees in the fall.

Tornadoes Devastate Three US States

US President George W Bush said it was a "sad day" for the devastated communities
Sky News

At least 23 people are dead after a series of tornadoes pummelled the US, leaving homes and business destroyed.

Fourteen people were killed in Missouri, seven in Oklahoma, and two in Georgia. US President George W Bush said it was a "sad day" for the devastated communities and promised federal aid.

"We send our prayers to those who lost their lives and the families of those who lost their lives, and the federal government will be moving hard to help," he said.

A spokeswoman for Missouri's emergency management department said search and rescue operations were continuing, and several people were in a critical condition in hospital.

See: <http://news.sky.com/skynews/article/0,,30200-1315734,00.html>

Rising costs reshaping air travel

As jet fuel and fares soar, many are likely to be priced out of flying
By Marilyn Adams and Dan Reed
USA TODAY

Record-high oil prices are threatening to ground millions of travelers who have grown accustomed to flying for fun and business during the past 30 years.

Air travel in the USA has grown at a rate five times faster than the population since 1978, when deregulation first allowed airlines to compete by setting their own prices and routes without government approval. Last year, 769 million passengers boarded U.S. airline flights.

But with today's unprecedented jet fuel prices, airline executives and aviation analysts are warning that only extreme fare increases and dramatic cutbacks in flights will enable the industry to cover a 2008 jet fuel bill the airlines' trade group projects will be 44% higher than last year's.

By this time next year, there could be as many as 20% fewer seats available if carriers respond to oil prices well above $100 a barrel by cutting as many flights as securities analysts such as JPMorgan's Jamie Baker are suggesting.

That would be like shutting down a carrier the size of American Airlines, (AMR) the world's largest, which, with its regional carriers, operates 4,000 flights daily. That alone would sharply increase demand and prices for plane tickets.

See: Rising costs reshaping air travel across the USA - USATODAY.com

Xcel disconnects 600-650 customers daily

Unpaid utility bills soar as economy sags
By Judy Keen
USA TODAY


CHICAGO - Hundreds of thousands of utility customers are at risk of disconnections as the sagging economy drives up the number of past-due home heating bills and the amounts owed, utility companies in cold-weather states say.

Xcel Energy says 17%-19% of its 1.1 million Minnesota customers and its 280,000 Wisconsin customers are in arrears. That's about the same as a year ago, but balances owed are up 10% in Minnesota and up 20% in Wisconsin, says Pat Boland, Xcel's credit policy manager.

Xcel disconnects 600-650 customers daily, he says. "Obviously the economy is playing a very big role in the disposable income that folks have," Boland says. Another factor: Cold weather added 7%-8% to this year's bills.The extent of the problem is becoming apparent now because most states in the Midwest and Northeast have moratoriums on disconnecting utilities in winter months. Those restrictions typically end March 31 or April 15.

Companies try to work out payment plans before curtailing service, and aid is available for some low-income customers.A record $40 million was owed by 226,670 delinquent customers of rate-regulated utilities statewide in March, says Jerry McKim of Iowa's Bureau of Energy Assistance. "What we have is a crisis that never goes away," and more federal and state assistance is needed, he says.

See: http://www.usatoday.com/

Mass Shut-offs Looming

More people in US need help with utility bills
By Jason Hidalgo

The nation is on pace for a record number of unpaid utility bills this year, with state agencies facing shortages to maintain assistance programs. In Northern Nevada, many residents said they have been shocked after opening their electric bills in the past few months. Lauren Williams, a clerk for a textile company in Reno, recently got a 10-day notice for a $121 bill. "I have no idea on how to pay this bill. I will be calling and making arrangements like I have the last couple of times.

"The rise in the number of people falling behind on their utility bills is the result of a slowing economy marked by rising fuel prices and a struggling housing market, said the Washington, D.C.-based National Energy Assistance Directors' Association. In its latest report, the association of directors who oversee state energy assistance programs also found an increase in the number of families receiving energy assistance nationwide.

"With the way things are, I have to choose between paying my rent, which is the No. 1 choice, then food and then the power," Williams said.

Lisa Jordan had her power cut off recently after also experiencing problems with her payment plan. The plan required Jordan to pay $100 installments."I had received some overtime, and so instead of paying the $100 I owed, I paid $300," Jordan said. "They shut me off the following Friday because I didn't send them another $100 that week. The power company is very hard to work with and does not take making payment arrangements very well. I had to come up with money I did not have just because I made a larger payment the week before."

Breastfeeding makes children smarter

Study provides the strongest evidence to date that breastfeeding makes kids smarter
By Roger Highfield
Science Editor

Breastfeeding makes children smarter, concludes the biggest study of its kind.

There have been a number of studies which have suggested a link between breast feeding and IQ but this has been treated with scepticism because they had studied children whose mothers chose to breastfeed and compared with those whose mothers chose not to, and there were always fears that the link could say more about social factors than breast milk itself.

Now these confounding factors have been swept away in the largest scientifically designed study of breastfeeding ever conducted which concludes that breastfeeding raises children's IQs and improves their academic performance.

"Our study provides the strongest evidence to date that prolonged and exclusive breastfeeding makes kids smarter," says Prof Michael Kramer at McGill University, lead investigator, who believes the findings will be a boon for efforts "to promote, protect and support breastfeeding."

See: Breastfeeding makes children smarter - Telegraph

Cyclone death tolls 15,000

At least 15,000 people were killed in the Myanmar cyclone and the toll was likely to rise
By Aung Hla Tun
Reuters News Service

YANGON (Reuters) - At least 15,000 people were killed in the Myanmar cyclone and the toll was likely to rise as officials made contact with the worst-hit areas, the military government's foreign minister said on Tuesday.

Foreign Minister Nyan Win said on state television that 10,000 people had died in just one town, Bogalay, as he gave the first detailed account of what is emerging as the worst cyclone to hit Asia since 1991, when 143,000 people were killed in Bangladesh.

"In Irrawaddy Division the death toll amounts to more than 10,000," he said in a state television broadcast, in which he also said the military government welcomed outside assistance, an unprecedented green light to governments and aid agencies who want to help with the recovery.

"The missing is about 3,000. In Bogalay, the death toll is about 10,000," the minister said in the broadcast monitored outside of the Southeast Asian country.

See: Cyclone kills 10,000 in just one Myanmar town

Credit Card Ticks to Avoid

Top 5 Sneaky Credit Card Tricks
AOL Money & Finance

Credit-card companies are quite inventive when it comes to charging fees or finding new reasons to jack up your interest rate. After all, it's how they make money.

In 2005 alone (the latest year available), consumers paid nearly $88 billion in interest charges and penalty fees, according to Cards & Payments, an industry magazine. That's an increase of nearly 10% over 2004.

But with some vigilance, you can avoid getting burned. Here are five of the latest credit-card tricks to watch out for.

Click Here: Top 5ive Sneaky Credit Card Tricks -- Intro - AOL Money & Finance

Israel Continues to Embrace African Hebrews

Click below to see Reuters News Service video on the Kingdom of Yah:

http://www.mediascrape.com/news/ViewNewsItem.aspx?newsItemId=35505&amp;rootVideoPanelType=1

Submitted by Tovleeyah B. Israel

KNN-Israel/Ghana

KNN’s Energy Saving Tip for the Week

Replace your incandescent light bulbs with compact fluorescent lights (CFLs)
KNN-Green Staff

Look closely at labels when buying light bulbs. Those marked as CFLs last 10 times longer and use 66 percent less energy than incandescent bulbs while delivering the same light levels. As a result, CFLs accrue net savings between $30 and $45 over their lifetimes, depending on your cost of electricity, the wattage size of the CFL, and the lamp's lifespan (manufacturers make CFLs that last 6,000, 8,000, or 10,000 hours).

The return on investment is 15 times higher than leaving your money in a bank account or the average return on Dows-Jones stock investments. CFLs also reduce the release of greenhouse gas emissions and are safer because they burn at a lower temperature (160° F or less) than incandescent and halogen lights, which can burn at temperatures up to 500° F. To learn more download this PDF from energystar.gov.

KNN-Go Green!!!!!

Crown Dr. Khazriel Addresses the U.N.

Check a little Kingdom History Out
KNN-Dimona

Shalom Everyone,

Check a little Kingdom History out. The presentation is at the United Nations Geveva, Switzerland. Crown Dr. Khazriel is presenting to the General Assembly representing some of the leading NGO's from the African Diaspora.

1. Click on: http://www.un.org/
2. Click on Welcome
3. Click on Webcast
4. Scroll down click on Durban Review Conference
5. Click on Achived Video (make sure you click on to the bottom achived videos)
6. Click on April 23
7. Scroll down, click on Non Government Organizations: Joint Statement: Tiye International, Stiching National Monument, Stiching Sophiedel, African Hebrew Development Agency

Enjoy History!!!!!!

Eating Vegan Helps the Earth

Yogis for a Sustainable Diet
by Andrea Kowalski

Submitted by
Zemrah E. Moriel
KNN-St. Louis

Amid all the hype surrounding Earth Day, a yogi can't help but wonder how much he or she, acting individually, can make a difference. Of course, the answer is that every choice counts, including riding your bike to work, composting, recycling, and consuming less. However, the factor that can reduce your carbon footprint most dramatically is the choice that you make three times daily: what to eat for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

In a 2006 United Nations study, meat consumption was cited as one of the most significant factors in global warming: Scientists declared that raising animals for food is responsible for more greenhouse gases than the entire transportation sector. And according to a 2005 University of Chicago study, adopting a vegetarian diet can shrink your carbon footprint by up to 1.5 tons of carbon dioxide a year. (In comparison, trading a standard car for a hybrid cuts about one ton.) Aside from the undeniable environmental benefits of eating such a diet, yogis may also consider the ahimsic benefits: A vegetarian diet spares the lives of more than 100 innocent beings per year.

This week, make a significant impact on your carbon footprint by establishing a plan to go veg several days a week (if not completely). Get guidance and some great recipes from this free Vegetarian Starter Kit from the editors of Vegetarian Times and the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine. Patronize restaurants that tread lightly on the earth, or consider growing your own organic fruits and veggies in a backyard or rooftop garden. Finally, inspire us with your in-progress plans, or make a pledge to reduce your carbon footprint. Happy Earth Day!

Global Food Crisis - Rice Prices up 141%

A new crisis is emerging, a global food catastrophe that will reach further and be more crippling than anything the world has ever seen
by Alia McMullen
Financial Post

A new crisis is emerging, a global food catastrophe that will reach further and be more crippling than anything the world has ever seen. The credit crunch and the reverberations of soaring oil prices around the world will pale in comparison to what is about to transpire, Donald Coxe, global portfolio strategist at BMO Financial Group said at the Empire Club's 14th annual investment outlook in Toronto on Thursday.

"It's not a matter of if, but when," he warned investors. "It's going to hit this year hard."

Mr. Coxe said the sharp rise in raw food prices in the past year will intensify in the next few years amid increased demand for meat and dairy products from the growing middle classes of countries such as China and India as well as heavy demand from the biofuels industry.

"The greatest challenge to the world is not US$100 oil; it's getting enough food so that the new middle class can eat the way our middle class does, and that means we've got to expand food output dramatically," he said.

The impact of tighter food supply is already evident in raw food prices, which have risen 22% in the past year.

See: Forget oil, the new global crisis is food

Passover 2008 in Dimona Israel

The Morning After Passover Evening in Dimona Israel

Photo by Ahk Shokaid B. Israel

The Value of Family in the Kingdom of Yah

The Kingdom of Yah Promotes a Strong Family Structure
By Ahtur Keymah
KNN-Cleveland

In the Kingdom of Yah we promote the growth and expansion of the family unit. Children grow up in families with both parents present and a strong support system in place.

Children are raised in household where Yah-centered values are taught from an early age and all the parents are involved in the nurturing and up bringing of the children.

This system of child development gives the children a balanced and sound foundation to develop into adulthood from. Also, as adults these children will become and integral of our society promoting the same values and socials systems from which they were developed.

Unfortunately, children who do not have this type of support structure are many times adversely affected. The effects of the absence of this support system have been well documented.

There are currently 14 million single parents in the U.S. today. They are responsible for raising 21.6 million of the U.S.’s children.

The statistics about single parents show that most single parents are mothers. Statistics show that 83.1% of the single custodial parents are mothers as compared with 16.9% being custodial fathers.

Further single parenting statistics show that single mothers are either divorced or separated. There are 45.9% of single mothers that are either currently separated or divorced, 30.5% of single mothers have never been married or 1.7% of single mothers are widows.

Previous studies have found that children being raised in single-parent homes are at greater health and other kinds of risks. The new study shows that these risks include higher risk of childhood sexual abuse. This especially concerns low-income one-parent households.

Сhildren from one-parent homes do need more communication with their moms or dads. However, the parents are often absent from the home, being busy working to provide their children with basic necessities. The children have to find someone who would be a parent-substitute with whom to communicate and to share experiences. Molesters take advantage of this situation and become friends to these emotionally-needy children.

Let us in the Kingdom of Yah continue to promote a strong family structure that offers the world an alternative to single parents and single parent households.

5.4 earthquake rocks Illinois; felt 350 miles away

The strongest recorded in the region rocked people up to 450 miles away
Associated Press

WEST SALEM, Ill. - A 5.4 magnitude earthquake that appeared to rival the strongest recorded in the region rocked people up to 450 miles away early Friday, surprising residents unaccustomed to such a powerful Midwest temblor.

The quake just before 4:37 a.m. was centered six miles from West Salem, Ill., and 66 miles from Evansville, Ind. It was felt in such distant cities as Chicago, Cincinnati, Milwaukee, and Des Moines, Iowa, 450 miles northwest of the epicenter, but there were no early reports of injuries or significant damage.

"It shook our house where it woke me up," said David Behm of Philo, 10 miles south of Champaign. "Windows were rattling, and you could hear it. The house was shaking inches. For people in central Illinois, this is a big deal. It's not like California."

See: Moderate earthquake rattles Ill. residents, felt 350 miles away

S. Africa Eastern Cape amaXhosa embrace Hebrew roots

SONS OF ABRAHAM- Ananyah Ben Israel, left, the mission head of the African Hebrew Israelites and Tsadekyahu Ben Israel, the community’s head of the ministry of information
KNN-S. Africa

UNTIL eight years ago Ananyah Ben Israel, 34, from Scenery Park, East London, went by his Xhosa name, Songezo Filita. But in 1999 he changed his name when he learnt that he might be a descendant of the ancient Israelites.

Now Ben Israel is the mission head of the Eastern Cape branch, a group of like-minded believers who call themselves African Hebrew Israelites.

These are 50 isiXhosa speakers living in King William’s Town and East London, 35 in Ngcobo and about 80 in Port Elizabeth. These are part of a larger international group of African Hebrew Israelites worldwide, including in countries like Israel, the United States and England.

Ben Israel, a business system officer at Eskom, became a convert after hearing about the African Hebrew Israelites from another believer.

They hold the view that all Bantu people are the blood descendants of the Israelites of the Old Testament. As a result they live a lifestyle directed by the rituals and laws that God gave Israel.
This includes observing holy days like the Sabbath and Passover, circumcising boys eight days after birth, refraining from sex before marriage and marrying within the community.

“We also maintain a vegan diet and avoid all animal by-products. We only wear natural fabrics like cotton, wool, linen and silk,” said Ben Israel.

See: Eastern Cape amaXhosa convert to Hebrew faith

The 11th Hour DVD has now been released

Get your copy today of this powerful DVD
KNN-Cleveland

"Global warming is not only the number one environmental challenge we face today, but one of the most important issues facing all of humanity ... We all have to do our part to raise awareness about global warming and the problems we as a people face in promoting a sustainable environmental future for our planet."—Leonardo DiCaprio

With contributions from over 50 of the world's most prominent thinkers and activists, including former Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev, physicist Stephen Hawking, Nobel Prize winner Wangari Maathai, and journalist Paul Hawken, the film documents the grave problems facing the planet's life systems. Global warming, deforestation, mass species extinction, and depletion of the oceans' habitats are all addressed. The film's premise is that the future of humanity is in jeopardy.

The film offers hope and potential solutions to these problems by calling for restorative action by the reshaping and rethinking of global human activity through technology, social responsibility and conservation. Scientists and environmental advocates such as David Orr, David Suzuki, and Gloria Flora paint a portrait for a radically new and different future in which it is not humanity's intent to dominate the planet's life systems, but to mimic and coexist with them.

Pick up your copy today from your local bookstore. Only $4.99 per copy!!!

Or see: The 11th Hour - Narrated by Leonardo DiCaprio - The Official Site ...

Knowest thou not yet that Egypt is destroyed?

G-7 Says Outlook `Weakened,' Warns on Currency Swings
By Simon Kennedy
Bloomberg.com

Submitted by
Eitai B.N. Aharon

April 11 (Bloomberg) -- Finance chiefs from the Group of Seven nations said the global economic slowdown may worsen amid an ``entrenched'' credit squeeze and signaled concern over the dollar's slide.

``Since our last meeting, there have been at times sharp fluctuations in major currencies, and we are concerned about their possible implications for economic and financial stability,'' the G-7's finance ministers and central bankers said in a statement after talks in Washington today.

The officials downgraded their outlook for the world economy from that of two months ago, blaming the U.S. housing recession, credit-market turmoil, commodity prices and inflation pressures. The dollar has lost 8 percent against the euro and 6 percent versus the yen since the G-7 last met in Tokyo in February.

``They're trying to discreetly throw a lifeline to the dollar,'' said Sophia Drossos, a currency strategist at Morgan Stanley in New York, who used to help manage the Federal Reserve's foreign-exchange holdings. ``Had they not said anything, the dollar would have resumed its sell-off. This acknowledges there has been increased volatility.''

See: http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=email_en&refer=home&sid=a2skLAx9NKZY

New From Communicators Press

The Sacred Truth Scrolls
KNN-DC

Direct from the Holy Land......

We are making available for a limited time this unique and attractive set of five Sacred Truth Scrolls, plus a thought- provoking booklet and CD specially narrated by the author H.E. Ben Ammi, Anointed Spiritual Leader of the Kingdom of Yah.


The $100.00 offering for this fine collection goes toward the support of our ongoing rural development projects presently being implemented throughout the African Continent.

Click here to get the details: Sacred Truth Scrolls

Shanah Tova - Happy New Year

Today marks the beginning of the new year as stipulated in the Bible
by Zia
Antigua Sun

No, I haven’t gotten my calendar twisted, nor am I on or need to go on medication. I’m celebrating the new year on the Hebrew-Israelite calendar. Today marks the beginning of the new year as stipulated in the Bible.

Joining other nations which keep Biblical laws, the Hebrew-Israelites in Antigua, led by Ammi Ben Israel, a son of the soil, will join their fellow African Hebrew Israelites of Jerusalem in Dimona, Israel and other parts of the world, to exclaim, “Shanah Tova!” This means “Happy New Year!”

Unconvinced? Don’t be. Their lifestyle is based on the laws and teachings of the Old Testament. In fact, as a gift of appreciation to the Antiguan public, the Institute of Regenerative Truth under the auspices of the African Hebrew Israelites of Jerusalem will be holding a special seminar tomorrow at the City View Hotel, beginning at 2 p.m. The topic being discussed will be “Righteous cycles, seasons and set times” to commemorate the celebration of the New Year.

See: Shanah Tova - Happy New Year

Continental to add fee for checking second bag

Continental Airines is joining the "pack light or pay up" chorus
By BILL HENSEL JR.
Houston Chronicle

Citing the continued high cost of fuel, Continental is joining most of its rivals in adding a $50 round-trip fee for many passengers checking second bags. Houston-based Continental announced Friday the fee will be tacked on to economy-class tickets, except for those passengers who pay full fare or are elite members of its OnePass frequent-flier program.

That means most leisure travelers who check two bags will be hit. Many business travelers and people buying tickets at the last minute already pay higher prices and won't be dunned further The policy will apply only for destinations within the U.S., Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and Canada for travel on or after May 5. That's also when other major U.S. carriers also will begin their $25-each-way fees for extra bags. United Airlines originated the fee in February.

American Airlines said Friday it has not changed its policy regarding a second checked bag, but experts expect it to fall in line.

"Plan on it," aviation consultant Mike Boyd said. "They are not going to leave money on the table." Southwest Airlines recently started charging $25 for third bags, but second bags remain free for all customers. The airlines, which have made repeated attempts to raise fares and cut costs in recent months, are taking the action in the face of stubbornly high fuel prices.

Northwest Airlines said late Thursday that in addition to its bag fee, it will reduce the number of seats it flies domestically more than it originally planned. Northwest said it will remove an additional 15 to 20 planes from service this year.

Continental has not announced similar moves, but its chairman and chief executive, Larry Kellner, has said the carrier will have to look at the size of its network if high fuel prices persist. Although Continental did not say how much money it expects to generate from the second checked bag fee, Northwest said it anticipates collecting $25 million more annually. From 2000 to 2007, the price of jet fuel more than doubled, according to the Air Transport Association, which represents most major U.S. airlines.

A Continental passenger checking just one bag won't have to pay extra as long as the bag meets weight and size limits already in place. The majority of travelers only check one bag. Continental said its premium travelers in economy class may check two bags at no charge. Those travelers are elite OnePass and SkyTeam members, Continental Airlines Presidential Plus credit card holders and non-elite customers who purchase full-fare tickets.

There is no change in the checked bag policy for passengers traveling in first class and BusinessFirst, Continental said. Boyd said the increase is driven strictly by high fuel costs and is different than charging for items such as pillows or blankets. "It is not opportunistic nickel-and-diming," he said. "It is a case of we are carrying another 35 pounds of weight, and that takes fuel."

Payday Loan Co's Charge as Much as 800% Intrest

Desperate for cash, many in U.S. taking high-interest 'payday' loans
By Nick Carey
Reuters News Service

As hundreds of thousands of American homeowners fall behind on their mortgage payments, more people are turning to short-term loans with extreme interest rates, just to get by.

While hard figures are hard to come by, evidence from nonprofit credit and mortgage counselors suggests that the number of people using these so-called "payday loans" is growing as the U.S. housing crisis deepens.

"We're hearing from around the country that many folks are buried deep in payday loan debts as well as struggling with their mortgage payments," said Uriah King, a policy associate at the Center for Responsible Lending.

A payday loan is typically for a few hundred dollars, with a term of two weeks, and an interest rate as high as 800 percent. The average borrower ends up paying back $793 for a $325 loan, according to the center.

The center also estimates that payday lenders issued more than $28 billion in loans in 2005, the latest available figures.

In the Union Miles district of Cleveland, which has been hit hard by the housing crisis, all the conventional banks have been replaced by payday lenders with brightly painted signs offering instant cash for a week or two to poor families.

See: Desperate for cash, many in U.S. taking high-interest 'payda...

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