Methane Hydrate, which is also called “flaming ice”, is a highly concentrated methane which is enclosed in frozen water deep under the ocean. It burns clean and has a greater energy capacity than oil, coal and natural gas combined. There are over 100,000 trillion cubic feet of it in the world and may be a good bridge fuel for the US as we try to become more energy independent. For more information, see:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bi9xK8jmXzc

Fewer women in Afghanistan are dying in childbirth now. Evidence has shown that when you increase the education of women, their rate of employment goes up and their age of marriage is delayed.

It is believed that yelling and swearing at a child is as harmful as hitting. This type of verbal abuse can make the behavior worse because it reduces their feelings of worth and leads to anger or depression. Other examples include constant teasing or criticism, name calling, threatening, and humiliation. See http://www.teach-through-love.com/types-of-emotional-abuse.html

A recent study suggests that the brain washes away toxins while it sleeps. Failure to get enough sleep could lead to some brain disorders, including Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.

Google Earth has helped human rights activists identify the prison camps in North Korea. It is estimated that more than 250,000 prisoners are being held in dozens of these  brutal and inhumane labor camps. Approximately 50,000 men, women and children are housed in Camp 22 (pictured), and there are reports of prisoners stoning each other to death over a few kernels of corn, and women frequently being raped by prison guards. Many are in for minor offenses (such as watching a foreign soap opera) or because their relative committed a crime.

The novel Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte, which was written in 1847, is still an inspiration for women today. The strong heroine believed you can overcome your past (no matter now bad it is) and change your destiny. With her virtuous integrity, perseverance and intellect, Jane overcame class barriers and won the respect of the man she loved.

George Lincoln Rockwell, the founder of the American Nazi Party, believed in racial, ethnic and religious separation. Before his murder in 1967, he was quoted as saying: “I will kill every Jew, Catholic and Negro.”

Wildlife conservationists in Europe say that certain species such as bear, bison, beaver, wolves and eagles have made a comeback over the past 50 years due to protection and curbs on hunting and pollution.

It is estimated that 80% of counterfeit drugs come from overseas, and most are manufactured in China or India. According to the World Health Organization, approximately 50% of drugs sold online on illegal websites are fake and many people die annually from either wrong ingredients or poor quality. Viagra is the most counterfeit drug worldwide.

Germany is expanding its coal production. Recently, the village of Immerath has been turned into a ghost town as 7,600 residents have been forced to move out in order to allow energy company RWE to enlarge its open pit coal mine called Garzweiler. It will measure 19 square miles (the size of central Paris), and it has been granted a license to extract 1.3 billion tons of lignite by 2045. Twelve other plants are due to open by 2020, and pollution is a major concern.

A Utah high school football coach, Matt Labrum, suspended 80 players on his team after reports of poor grades, skipping class and cyber-bullying a fellow student. He has required them to attend character classes and perform community service before they can earn a spot back on the team.

Poachers in Africa are poisoning the discarded carcasses of elephants in an attempt to kill masses of vultures who would typically fly above the scene and alert authorities. Thousands have been killed, and their population is now at risk. Vultures are not only important to the eco-system because they clean up a garbage scene, but they can also prevent the spread of disease.

The flag of the City of Detroit was designed in 1907. The lower left quarter represents France, who founded it in 1701. The upper right represents Britain, which controlled the fort from 1760 to 1796; and the remaining two sections represents the 13 colonies and the stars and stripes of the American flag. The two Latin mottos in the center mean “We hope for better things” and “It will rise from the ashes”, which referred to the fire of 1805 which destroyed the entire city. The flag is a symbol of hope for the future and a belief that Detroit will once again rise above its struggles and be a great city.

To honor International Day of Peace on September 21, British artists and volunteers took to the beaches of Normandy.  With rakes and stencils, they etched 9,000 silhouettes in the sand …. representing ALL the men that gave their lives during the WWII D-Day beach landing on June 6th, 1944.  No distinction was made between the nationalities.

Workers on a fire escape risked their lives to help rescue a stranger from the fifth floor of a burning New York apartment building.

The Culinary Command Program trains active military members and veterans how to be professional chefs. It is an intense 45-day class offered twice a year in Chatham, New York and taught by Chef David James Robinson, who began the program in 2010. For more information, see:  http://www.culinarycommand.com/the-program/

Abraham Lincoln was the only US President to ever receive a patent. Lincoln, who was always fascinated with inventions and anything mechanical, designed a device that could lift boats over obstructions in shallow waters after his flatboat became stranded on a sandbar in 1848.

In 1932, Edsel Ford commissioned Mexican artist Diego Rivera to do a series of 27 frescoes called the Detroit Industry. Given full artistic freedom, Rivera depicted the arduous work conditions and strict supervisorial scrutiny the employees dealt with at the Ford River Rouge Plant. For more on this story, please read:    http://www.michelleparsons.com/henry-ford-the-international-jew/

For the past 31 years, the American Library Association has published a list of the Top 100 “Banned” or “Challenged” books.  Many of these are very popular award-winning books that are viewed as classics.  Banned Books Weeks, which is held this year from September 22-28, celebrates the freedom to read.  For more information, please see:              http://www.ala.org/bbooks/bannedbooksweek

During the winter of 1838, more than 16,000 Cherokee Indians were physically removed from their birth land in the South and forced to relocate to the Indian Territory in what is now known as Oklahoma. They had little clothing and almost no food, and many died during the thousand-mile death march known as the Trail of Tears.

Hachiko was a golden brown Akita who belonged to a Japanese professor. Every day the dog met his owner in front of the Shibuya Train Station in Tokyo when he returned from work. One day in 1925, the owner died of a brain hemorrhage and never returned home. But for the next 9 years, Hachiko faithfully went to the exact same spot every day to wait for him. Each year on April 8th, a memorial service is held to honor him in front of his bronze statue.

After the 7.8 earthquake in San Francisco in 1906, almost 80% of the city was destroyed. In the aftermath, 225,000 were left homeless and lived in refugee camps temporarily. During the first few days after news of the disaster reached the rest of the world, relief efforts reached over $5,000,000.

Yom Kippur begins at sunset tonight and ends at nightfall tomorrow. It is the holiest and most important holiday for Jewish people and is traditionally observed with a 25-hour period of fasting and prayer. Also known as the Day of Atonement, people try to change their behavior by first confessing their sins and then asking for forgiveness for wrongs done against God and others.

Singapore has the largest proportion of millionaires in the world, with 17.1% of the population having a net worth of more than $1M. It is also ranked second among countries with regard to those with an ULTRA-HIGH net worth of more than $100 million.

9/11 Day is the international non-profit movement to observe September 11th as a day of charitable service and doing good deeds. It was founded by MyGoodDeed, and you can make a personal pledge of service OR organize a project at your work place, school, or community agency. For additional information and ideas on how to get started, please visit: http://www.serve.gov/?q=site-page/september-11th-national-day-service-and-remembrance

Last week, the wills of 230,000 British and Empire soldiers from WWI were placed on a website (https://www.gov.uk/probate-search).  Most were written quickly before the troops entered battle and some included a letter to loved ones.  They give historians new insights into the lives and thoughts of these war heroes.

An Egyptian court has ordered the closure of 4 television news stations, including Aljazeera’s local affiliate. Their broadcasts during the riots have been declared a national threat, and they have been accused of showing bias and spreading rumors. The other 3 stations that were shut down included one affiliated with Hamas, one affiliated with the Muslim Brotherhood and one based in Jordan.

A replica of the Liberty Bell, which was cast in 1915, was used to promote women’s suffrage. It traveled throughout America with its clapper chained to its side, silent until women finally won the right to vote. In 1920, it was brought to Independence Hall and rung when the 19th amendment was ratified.

Kid’s Wish Network, an international charitable organization that grants wishes to children with life threatening diseases, is ranked as the WORST charity because of the $127 million dollars raised, less than 3 cents of every dollar actually went to the children. The vast majority went to the founder of the organization and to paid telemarketers who solicited the donations.

Although prostitution has been legal in Switzerland since 1942, the city of Zurich has recently outlawed street solicitation and is requiring sex workers to work only in drive-in areas in compounds that are guarded, clean and have safety alarms.

Studies have shown that approximately 77% of American students have been bullied either verbally, mentally or physically. For more information on how to stop bullying, please see: http://www.stopbullying.gov/respond/support-kids-involved/ and http://www.kidpower.org/library/article/prevent-bullying/?gclid=CK_yj9jD_bgCFeZxQgodLnoAqg

New Zealand is the latest country to legalize gay marriage. The first country to do so was the Netherlands in 2001. Since then, Belgium (2003), Spain (2005), Canada (2005), South Africa (2006), Norway (2009), Sweden (2009), Portugal (2010), Iceland (2010), Argentina (2010), Denmark (2012), Brazil (2013), France (2013) and Uruguay (2013) have followed suit. In some countries such as the US and Mexico, it is allowed in certain states only. Other countries like Australia only recognize a civil union.

Yemen is experiencing a severe water crisis. More than half the population has no access to clean water, and nearly 80% of conflicts in the rural areas are water-related. Experts are proposing that irrigation of crops needs to be more efficient and dams, as well as other rainfall collection methods, be employed.

The world intelligence community has strong evidence that the extremely dangerous nerve gas Sarin is currently being used on civilians in Syria. It is considered 500 times MORE toxic than cyanide and not easily detected because it is colorless, tasteless and odorless.

It is estimated that more than 300 million people in India have no access to electricity and many have never even seen a light bulb. Their lives are beginning to change dramatically now, however, as some private companies and charities are helping build small solar energy plants to power clusters of small villages.

A distressed bride in Kent, Washington recently discovered her wedding gown had been stolen only a few hours before the scheduled wedding. She called 911 to report the crime, and a compassionate dispatcher on call came to the rescue. She had just been married herself 18 months earlier and was the same dress size as the bride. She offered her own dress and even personally delivered it.

The American television series MASH dealt with both the atrocities and absurdities of the Korean War. In the pilot episode, which aired on September 17, 1972, surgeon Hawkeye Pierce (played by Alan Alda) came up with a solution on how to end the war: “We’ve got to throw away ALL the guns and then invite the jokers from the North and the South to a cocktail party. The last man standing on his feet at the end of the evening wins the war.”

Young people in Mumbai, India press together to build a human pyramid to represent unity for Janmashtami, a holiday honoring Krishna (the Hindu God of Love). Devotees celebrate by fasting all day and staying up until midnight.

A project called Art Everywhere will showcase 22,000 classic art posters throughout the UK during the next two weeks. With the goal of spreading beauty and celebrating talented British artists, art will replace advertising… and billboards, train stations, shopping malls, buses and even black cabs will be transformed.

In a landmark lawsuit, a female bar owner is suing a crime boss of one of Japan’s largest organized mafia gangs, known as the Yakuza. She is demanding reimbursement of approximately $175,000, which represents the protection money she paid over a period of 12 years when they repeatedly threatened to torch her bar. It is estimated that the Yakuza are six times larger than the Italian mafia, with approximately 83,000 gangsters operating in 22 crime syndicates.

Police in Hong Kong have recently discovered that traffickers have smuggled cocaine in through photo albums by soaking the drug in absorbent paper and hiding it between laminated photographs. Over 5 pounds of cocaine were discovered behind 39 photos.

Pakistan’s latest cartoon superhero is The Burka Avenger. She’s a teacher who doubles as a crime fighter and slays extremists with books and pens. Her message is that education triumphs over violence and that the pen is mightier than the sword. She also fights child labor, discrimination and sectarian violence.

It is estimated that 1 out of every 6 boys are sexually abused before they turn 18. They can be abused by straight men, gay men, girls or women and has nothing to do with the sexual orientation of the boy.  This is a physical ASSAULT rather than a sexual “experience”, and there is a lot of guilt and shame associated with it. For help or more information, please read: https://1in6.org/men/myths/

The small town of Angelica, NY is the only place in America where the obscure sport of roque is still being played. Dating back to 1899 and once called “The Game of the Century”, it replaced croquet as an exhibition sport in the 1904 Olympic Summer Games in St. Louis, Missouri.

It is estimated that 6.6 million Americans are stalked every year. Most are women who are harassed, threatened or followed by a former partner. It is important to recognize that stalking is a very serious crime that can lead to physical violence or homicide. Many victims suffer emotional distress for many years. For help or more information, please see http://calvcp.blogspot.com/2013/01/bringing-awareness-to-prevalence-and.html

Operation Babylift was the name given to the mass evacuation of babies and young children from South Vietnam to the United States and other countries (including Australia, France, and Canada) at the end of the Vietnam War from April 3–26, 1975. Thousands were airlifted and adopted by families around the world.

GlaxoSmithKline, one of the largest pharmaceutical companies in China, has been accused of bribing hundreds of doctors, hospitals and government officials to pump up sales of their products. It is believed the price spent on bribes make up almost 30% of the drug cost, and that its the Consumers who are paying for the corruption. More than 60 other companies are also under investigation.

A scholarly library dedicated to the Study of George Washington is scheduled to open September 27, 2013.  Located next to Washington’s Mount Vernon estate in Virginia, the 45,000 square foot library will have dozens of rare artifacts owned by the first American President. Although he had no formal education, Washington was a voracious reader and had a large personal collection of books ranging from gardening to taxation.

Nazi gold refers to the gold transferred by Nazi Germany to overseas banks during World War II. Their regime routinely stole the assets of its victims to fund their war efforts and then worked with several financial institutions to transfer the gold into cash. Recently, The Bank of England has admitted its role when it transferred gold stolen from Czechoslovakia during the Nazi invasion in 1939. Records show that cash from the sale of approximately 2,000 gold bars worth 5.6 Million Euros was transferred to Germany’s Reichsbank account.

In support of the LBGT community, bars around the world have stopped serving Russian vodka to protest the country’s recently-enacted anti-gay laws. These news laws implemented by President Vladimir Putin allow police to arrest foreigners they suspect as being “pro-gay,” prohibit same-sex couples from adopting Russian-born children, and have made it illegal to give information regarding homosexuality to anyone under 18 years old. 

Most Cuban farmers are still using old Russian tractors from the 1940’s and 1950’s with original plow and cart. They have had to learn how to repair the equipment themselves because spare parts are hard to find.

The flag of the Philippines is the only flag in the world where its colors can be reversed.  In wartime, the upper band is red and the bottom is blue.  In times of peace, the reverse is displayed.  Without meaning to, the United States insulted the Philippines in 2010 when it mistakenly displayed their flag upside down during a United Nations meeting between President Barack Obama and President Benigno Aquino.

Researchers studying the brains of psychopathic criminals in the Netherlands have discovered they can “switch on” empathy at will, which enables them to manipulate others around them so easily. Psychopaths can go from callous and uncaring to charming and sympathetic in just a few seconds.

Martin Luther King, Jr. (with his son by his side) removing a burnt cross from his front yard in Atlanta, Georgia in 1960.

Every Wednesday, Anthony Cymerys, also known as “Joe the Barber”, sets up a folding chair in the local park, hooks up his hair clippers to a car battery, and begins cutting the hair of the homeless of Hartford, Connecticut. He has been doing this for 25 years. He also gives them a hug (the only payment he requires). Most homeless people are so used to being “avoided” that it means the world to them just to be touched.

An exhibition in London looks at the Korean War from an artist’s perspective. Often referred to as “The Forgotten War”, the conflict lasted three years (1950-1953) and led to the permanent division of North and South Korea. Twenty nations were involved, three million people were injured and one million lost their lives.

Dogs are now being trained to help people who suffer with dementia. They can respond to a set of alarms which tell them to do specific tasks, such as waking up a person or bringing them a pouch of medication. Also, dogs have a calming nature which helps diminish the anger and frustration dementia patients experience. There are also dogs that have been trained to smell cancer and low blood sugar levels.

Coffin makers in Pakistan have seen a surge in their industry with all the growing violence in recent years. Many of these workers say now that they would be happy to see their business slow down because it would mean that peace has come to their region.

This oil painting entitled “Gassed” was completed in 1919 by artist John Singer Sargent.  It illustrates the aftermath of a mustard gas attack during World War I.  Sargent’s painting is based upon a saying of Jesus that appears in the Gospels: “Can the blind lead the blind? Will they not both fall into the ditch?”

Jack London, author of “Call of the Wild”, was also an accomplished photojournalist.  In 1902, he spent several months living with the homeless in the East End of London, sometimes sleeping on the streets, in parks or in workhouses. Many times, he walked ALL night with them (to avoid being arrested for vagrancy) and then slept during the day.  The above photo was included in his book, “The People of the Abyss” (1903).

First Lady Betty Ford received this silver bound Tanakh when she attended a Jewish National Fund dinner in NYC in June, 1976. The Tanakh is the holy scripture of Judaism, consisting of 3 parts: Torah (the law), Nevi’im (the Prophets) and Ketuvim (the Writings). The first 5 books of the Tanakh correspond closely to the Old Testament because early Christians relied on the Jewish writings for their history and truth. Any inconsistencies have been attributed to the fact that Christians used a Greek translation rather than Hebrew text.

Austrian boy receives NEW shoes during World War II.

Egypt is experiencing the worst economic crisis since the 1930’s with more than half their population living in absolute poverty or near-poor levels. The recent political upheaval, devaluation of their currency, and loss in tourism have led to soaring food costs, rapid rise in unemployment, and a shortage of fuel and cooking gas. Some food prices have DOUBLED since last Fall, and wheat supplies are expected to run out in 2 months.

According to the Center for Disease Control, more than 1.1 million people in the US are living with HIV infection but approximately 20% are NOT aware of their infection. Although the annual number of HIV infections has remained fairly stable, there has been an increase in young black men who now account for more than 45% people living with HIV in the U.S. For more statistics, please refer to:  http://kff.org/hivaids/fact-sheet/the-hivaids-epidemic-in-the-united-states/

According to UNICEF, 1 out of every 6 children in the world are working under slave-like conditions that are dangerous, illegal and exploitative, including the drug trade, prostitution or serving as soldiers. The majority DO NOT ATTEND SCHOOL, and the only lessons they learn is that no one protects them and life is a miserable test of endurance.  For more information on child labor, see: http://www.continuetolearn.uiowa.edu/laborctr/child_labor/about/ending.html

“I want to send a very clear message to the men and women who are wearing – or who have worn – our country’s uniform and to their spouses: when you have finished your service to our nation, you’ve got 2,000 great American companies ready and waiting to bring you on board”  – Michelle Obama

On a recent visit to the Italian island of Lambedusa, Pope Francis honored the 7,000 refugees from North Africa who have lost their lives at sea over the past 20 years. He has called on Europe to show compassion for these desperate immigrants who are trying to seek a better life and believes we have “lost a sense of brotherly responsibility and have forgotten how to cry” over their pain and misery.

Many countries around the world, including the UK, Germany, Australia, S. Korea and certain states in the US, have implemented laws allowing for the chemical castration of repeat sex offenders. It is basically a hormone treatment that can reduce sexual urges and compulsive fantasies but is viewed as more humane than actual castration, sterilization or life imprisonment.   It is also more cost effective for society in the long run, and offenders can be reintroduced into society with less chance of a repeated assault.

Senator Mark Kirk, a Republican from Illinois who is known for his bipartisanship, returned to work earlier this year after suffering a stroke in January 2012. Although it took him nearly 10 months to learn how to walk again, he said the BEST day of his life was when he was received a standing ovation from both sides of the Senate who lined the Capitol steps to give their support and welcome him back. He hopes people can look beyond his physical disability and see the “twinkle in his eye” as proof that he still has a LOT to contribute.

Muslims around the world will begin celebrating the holy month of Ramadan today.  This is not only a time of fasting from sunrise to sunset, but it is also a period of introspection with the goal of self-improvement and a closer connection to God. This is also a time of  charity and fellowship with family, friends and the community, and many attend large buffets at sunset for their evening meal.

Qollqas were sophisticated storage units used by the Incas in South America during the 14th century. Designed to protect the community against natural disasters that could affect the food supply, they stored such food as corn, grain, potatoes, fish, partridge, dried fruit, etc. for up to 4 years.  Built typically on hills with wind, cooler temperatures and a special ventilation system to prevent rot and decay, many anthropologists think this system was what contributed to the success of the Incan Empire.

Albert Einstein, one of the greatest inventors of all time, believed imagination and intuition were more important than knowledge because most scientific discoveries have first originated from the creative side of the brain.

http://home.wfp.org/stellent/groups/public/documents/communications/wfp229327.pdf

It has been 150 years since the Battle of Gettysburg where both armies suffered thousands of casualties. Four months later, Abraham Lincoln gave his famous speech where he honored the men who lost their lives but also stated that the war was a test as to whether the principles on which our nation was formed could endure:  “Fourscore and seven years ago, our fathers brought forth upon this continent a new Nation, conceived in Liberty, and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal”.

A new law in China requiring family members to visit their elderly parents has caused much debate. Not only is it too ambiguous to effectively enforce, it is also an impractical law given how many children are now migrant workers living in remote areas. Nor does it take into consideration the emotional relationship between the parties. But since China’s one-child policy went into effect, there is a growing population of retirees living longer and fewer children (and almost no resources) to care for them. For more on this, see the following article:  http://www.michelleparsons.com/chinas-one-child-policy/

At a United Nations conference in December 2012, there was a strong division over the issue of how government should manage the internet. One side, represented primarily by the US, the EU and Australia, adamantly supported FULL internet freedom. The other side, including China, Russia, and Saudi Arabia, favored allowing the internet to grow but wanted to retain the right to monitor, filter, censor and criminalize online speech. Some of these countries also block access to certain foreign websites as well as some internal opposition sites.

The Japanese are the lowest organ donors in the world. This may be due in part to religious or superstitious beliefs, but in general, charity and helping strangers is limited to the family unit in Japan.   As a result, thousands of Japanese have died from organ failure that could have been saved from transplantation, and many have to look OUTSIDE their country to find a donor.

The popularity of Palestine’s new reality show called “The President” has proven that the Palestinian people want an opportunity to participate in a democratic election.  Contestants running for “president” are questioned by a panel of professors, politicians and businessmen regarding topics such as the Israeli settlements, the death penalty and how to strengthen a weak economy. The audience responds each week by voting for their favorite candidate.

Viewed by the Indian government as their single biggest internal security challenge, the Naxalites are militant Communists supportive of Maoist ideology. They appeal most to poor villagers who own no land, live on less than $2 a day and have no medical facilities and little chance of education. Referred to as “agrarian extremists”, the Naxalites have spread their influence through 14 Indian states and have killed and abducted top bureaucrats to further their cause and put an end to upper class “enemies”.

After two weeks of violent demonstrations and street battles with the police, the anti-government protest in Istanbul’s Taksim Square has shifted to a silent and peaceful one. They are now able to protest with dignity and without fear of being attacked or arrested. Many believe that passive resistance is a better approach because government (and the rest of the public) are no longer distracted by the violence and will be more open to consideration of the issues and a possible dialogue.

Since 2006, TOMS Shoes has given 10 million shoes to needy children in 59 countries around the world.  Their “buy one, give one” business model was so successful that an eyewear company was also launched in 2011.  To date, TOMS has helped restore the vision for 150,000 people in 13 countries.

Lebanon has the most restrictive anti-Israeli laws of any country in the world.  Dating back to 1943, it is still ILLEGAL today for a Lebanese citizen to have any direct communication with an Israeli person or business.  If they engage in conversation or have any personal contact whatsoever, they could face criminal prosecution. It is also illegal to even buy an Israeli publication or friend an Israeli on Facebook.  Lebanon is currently comprised of 54% Muslims and 41% Christians.

Human trafficking is modern-day slavery, where people have been bought, illegally smuggled and then sold into a life of misery they can’t escape. They are often beaten, starved and forced to work as prostitutes or to take grueling jobs as migrant, factory, restaurant or domestic workers with little or no pay. In the US, it is most prevalent around international travel hubs w/ large immigrant populations, like California and Texas.  See the following link to help stop human trafficking: http://www.state.gov/j/tip/id/help/www.state.gov/j/tip/id/help/

In the 1943 classic Western film “The Ox-Bow Incident”, Henry Fonda’s character reads a letter written by a man who is about to be lynched by a mob of townspeople:  “A man just naturally can’t take the law into his own hands and hang people without hurtin’ everybody in the world, ’cause then he’s just not breaking one law but all laws. Law is a lot more than words you put in a book, or judges or lawyers or sheriffs you hire to carry it out. It’s everything people ever have found out about justice and what’s right and wrong. It’s the very conscience of humanity. There can’t be any such thing as civilization unless people have a conscience, because if people touch God anywhere, where is it except through their conscience?”

What originally sparked the “Arab Spring” has now spread to Brazil, a predominantly Catholic country.  A million people took to the streets in over 100 cities to protest government corruption, high taxes, poor public services and the high cost of hosting next year’s World Cup. A violent clash between the police and demonstrators resulted, and the use of tear gas, pepper spray and rubber bullets were used.

The wine producers in Turkey have been devastated by the current government’s bans on when and where people drink and how the product can be advertised and promoted domestically. Also, taxes on alcohol keep rising while the price paid for a kilo of grapes keeps decreasing.  Many fear that the industry, which has had a 7,000 year history with over 800 grape varieties and a winner of many international awards, will be destroyed if this conservative religious government gets its way.

Many businesses have closed down in Syria since their civil war started more than 2 years ago. While hundreds of thousands of people have either been killed or have fled, the owner of Bakdash (an ice cream parlor in Damascus) has vowed to stay open.  Although it is hard to get raw materials now and profits have diminished considerably, he wants to do his part to brighten everyone’s mood during these difficult times and is putting “a smile and hope” into his ice cream.  “We have to keep going and need to look forward to better days.”

North Korean dictator Kim Jung-Un reportedly handed out copies of Hitler’s autobiography to his top officials, urging them to read it.  Mein Kampf is also gaining popularity in India with the extreme right who admire “strong” leaders.  But many Indians use the word “Hitler” to denote anyone who is angry and controlling with an explosive temper.

Fourth graders in Berkeley, CA have started a campaign to bring their former classmate, Rodrigo Guzman, back home. His family was deported to Mexico in January when their visa expired, and they can’t reapply for entry for 5 years. Rodrigo, who was born in the US and was a good student, does not speak Spanish well and is having a major difficulty adjusting to a new life in Mexico. His friends believe that no matter how he got to the US, he belongs here now.  www.bringrodrigohome.org/

The new athletic director at Rutgers, Julie Hermann, was accused of verbal abuse by the female volleyball players she coached 16 years ago at the University of Tennessee.  ALL 15 players of the team signed a letter in 1997 where they wrote about the mental cruelty they experienced while working with her. They were called “whores, alcoholics and learning disabled”, and one player said later that they all came to hate the game they once loved.

Human rights activist Liu Xia, a Chinese poet, painter and photographer, has been living under house arrest in her Beijing apartment  for the past 2.5 years with no access to phones or the internet.  She has endured strict government surveillance and no personal freedom since her husband, political activist Liu Xiaobo, won the Nobel Peace Prize in 2010.   He is currently in prison serving an 11-year sentence for “subversion” after he circulated a charter calling for democratic reforms.  Liu Xia has recently appealed to President Xi Jinping,  imploring him to choose “justice” over “merciless oppression”.

According to a 2012 Report on Security Clearance by the Office of the Director of National Intelligence, more than 4 million US government employees (including contractors) have “security clearance” at some level, while 1.4 million have “Top Secret” security clearance like Edward Snowden. Senator Susan Collins from Maine is calling for a review of how these clearances are granted.  See pages 3 -4 of the following report:  www.dni.gov/files/documents/2012%20Report%20on%20Security%20Clearance%20Determinations%20Final.pdf

Voted last year by Forbes as the 21st “Most Powerful Person in the World”, Iran’s Supreme Leader for life, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, holds absolute power. But every 4 years, a President is elected who is head of the government. The upcoming election to replace Mahmoud Ahmadinejad has been tightly controlled by the Supreme Leader (who has disqualified many reformist candidates who pose a threat to elite conservative clerical rule).

These three slogans were used by the British government during WWII to motivate the people and inspire them to stay strong during a difficult period.

“Two Schools Under One Roof” refers to the schools in Bosnia and Herzegovina, which have remained ethnically divided since the Croatian-Bosnian War (1992-1994).  Children from two different ethnic groups attend classes under the same roof but are physically separated from each other and taught different curricula. At the school in the photo, the Muslim Bosniaks attend classes on the left side of the building, while the Catholic Croats attend the renovated school on the right side.

Many large corporations pay little to no US federal or state income taxes.  According to a Public Campaign report, 29 major corporations (including GE, Verizon, Wells Fargo and Boeing) paid NO federal income tax from 2008-2010. However, these same companies paid a combined total of $475 million lobbying Congress and influencing lawmakers.

In Nato’s 2nd largest army, more Turkish soldiers have died from suicide than from combat in the past 10 years.  Human rights activists and family members blame severe bullying as the cause for many of these deaths, which involved cruel and humiliating verbal abuse, physical torture, and sleep deprivation.  One soldier’s death was classified as a “suicide”, but his body was found covered with boot marks.  His family believes he was stomped to death by fellow soldiers.

Most people do not get enough Potassium, an essential mineral that affects many organs in the body. It can help lower blood pressure, prevent strokes, and relieve headaches, excessive sweating, muscle weakness, anemia, abnormal heat beat, sleep disturbances, etc.  It is found in many foods such as bananas, avocados and nuts, but many people need an additional supplement to get the 4,700 mg recommended per day:   http://www.webmd.com/vitamins-and-supplements/lifestyle-guide-11/supplement-guide-potassium

In a devastating blow to the people of Tunisia, the EU Court recently reversed its freeze on the assets of the family of former dictator Ben Ali. Convicted of embezzling billions of dollars of state funds, murder, drug trafficking and money laundering, the Ben Ali family stashed away large sums of money in foreign banks prior to the Revolution in 2011. The family is now free to spend the money that the Tunisians were counting on to rebuild their country.  Furthermore, the Court’s refusal to help Tunisia recover these stolen assets is viewed by many as their support of a corrupt regime. 

A prominent Chinese law professor, Zhang Xuezhong, recently revealed in his Sina Weibo microblog that the Chinese government has instructed university professors to NOT teach seven subjects, including freedom of the press, past mistakes of the communist party, the privileged capitalist class and citizen rights. Soon after, his account was frozen and the term “Seven Speak Nots” was blocked on major social media in China.

In the psychological thriller Fatal Attraction, Glenn Close played a mentally ill woman suffering from a delusional disorder called “erotomania“. Often confused with borderline personality disorder or paranoid schizophrenia, an affected person believes they are loved by another and may exhibit extreme psychotic behavior ranging from simple harassment to deadly stalking.  Sometimes involving a fear of abandonment, there can also be frequent episodes of severe anger, verbal abuse and self-harming behavior.

After Christianity and Islam, Atheism is the 3rd largest “faith” with 16 percent of the World’s population. But in many countries, it is still “illegal” to be an atheist, and one could be subject to the death penalty in the following countries:  Afghanistan, Iran, Maldives, Mauritania, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Sudan.  Also, some countries like Bangladesh, Egypt, and Kuwait make it illegal to publish atheist materials, while in the United States, it is illegal for an atheist to hold public office in 7 states: Arkansas, Maryland, Mississippi, Tennessee, Texas, Pennsylvania and South Carolina.

Sen. Joseph McCarthy claimed in the 1950’s that homosexuals were more dangerous to the US than Communists. He alleged they were so motivated to keep their sexual orientation secret that they were susceptible to blackmail by foreign special agents and would give up government secrets. This led to an order issued by Pres. Eisenhower outlawing the employment of gay individuals in the federal government. “Over the next three decades, FBI and other federal agents hunted down thousands of LGBT workers who were summarily fired from their jobs. Careers were ruined, lives destroyed, and more than a few committed suicide rather than be exposed to their families.”

More companies are abandoning cubicles and opting for an open plan workplace.  Not only has it proved to boost morale, creativity and collaboration, it reduces costs by using a smaller real estate footprint. There is also a track record of fewer ethics violations as workers are more visible to each other. In addition, the companies that have taken even the CEO’s out of private offices have produced a less status conscious and hierarchial environment.

Cuba announced that it will make public internet access available at 118 centers across the country at a cost of $4.50 per hour. Since the average monthly salary is only $20, only the wealthy will be able to afford it.   Due to the  US embargo, Cuba can only use cables shared with Venezuela.  Currently, only 5% of the country has access to the world web and content is censored by the government.

The two most powerful street gangs in Honduras, Salvatrucha and 18 Street, have declared a truce.  They are looking for an alternative to violence, and with the help of Catholic Bishop Romulo Emiliani, they are trying to broker a deal with the Honduran government to support craft workshops so they can earn an honest living and be reintegrated into society. The deal follows a similar pact reached more than a year ago in neighbouring El Salvador, which has since experienced a 52% reduction in homicides.  A gang spokesperson said:  “Our truce is with God, with society and with authorities”  and asked for forgiveness for the damage they have done.

Once described as a modern-day Pontius Pilate, Cardinal George Pell has confessed false documents were created and Australian priests took part in “reprehensible” cover-ups of child sexual abuse.  When asked about the compensation of $27,000 to a man that had been raped 20 times, he referred to it as “miserly” and said he would re-examine old settlements.  Many victims still remain unconvinced that he really cares, however, and believe he has a “sociopathic disregard for any empathy”.

There are approximately 300,000 prisoners in jail in India, and it is estimated that 70% of them have not even had their trial yet because of a very slow and very corrupt legal system (e.g. the Delhi High Court has a backlog of 466 years despite the average hearing taking only 4 minutes, 55 seconds). The large majority have been arrested for either a minor vehicle violation or petty crimes such as minor theft or insulting or slapping someone. Many have been waiting over 10 years for their trial.

In the past, society moved from the country to the city to better their lives.  But now that unemployment is so high in southern Europe, many trained professionals are turning back to the land.  It’s an enormous change but a more peaceful life where they can be their own boss and enjoy the beauty of nature.  For other new and innovative job ideas, see: http://www.dw.de/top-stories/plan-b/s-100269

The Swastika is an ancient symbol that has been used for 3,000 years by different cultures and religions around the world.  To many, it still remains a positive symbol of life, well being and good luck. But others see it only as a symbol of Nazi Germany, representing hate, anti-Semitism, violence and death.

Many Russians believe the Beatles (and rock and roll music) helped bring an end to totalitarianism and inspired a Cultural Revolution.  It taught Russians to speak more freely and eroded the fear that the government evoked.  As Pavel Palazchenko, Gorbachev’s English-language interpreter, explained: “They were not only a source of musical relief. They helped us create a world of our own, a world different from the dull and senseless ideological liturgy that increasingly reminded one of Stalinism. The Beatles were our quiet way of rejecting ‘the system’.”

Osaka Mayor Toru Hashimoto, a leader of the far-right Japan Restoration Party (JRP), has caused an international debate by declaring that the Japanese army’s policy of keeping thousands of “comfort women” as sex slaves throughout Asia during World War II was necessary for troop morale and discipline. An estimated 200,000 women were forced to become sex slaves for troops.  Majority of these women came from Korea, China, Japan and the Philippines, and many were abducted or lured with promises of work in factories or restaurants.

German software company SAP will start employing more people with autism because many have off-the-chart abilities with technology. In the film Rain Man, Dustin Hoffman played an autistic savant with awkward social skills and a fear of change, but he had an exceptional memory and an amazing ability to count hundreds of objects at once.  Savants can also be gifted in art, music, calendar calculation and spatial skills.  Some savants have autism while others have a brain injury or a mental illness.

In order to comply with international human rights standards, Thailand announced it will release prisoners from shackles (some weighing more than 10 pounds). Thai Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra said they want to try and change the behavior of prisoners without the use of chains. One former prisoner, who had been chained for 4 years, said the physical and mental pain caused by the chains is still alive in his mind even though years have passed: “It was a feeling of constant discomfort while I was sitting, sleeping, going to the toilet.” But the pain was at its greatest in his heart. He said that he felt like he was a hell creature, a non-human. He thinks that all chained inmates feel the same way.

According to a 2012 Gallup Poll, religiosity has dropped 9 percent globally since 2005. The most religious country in the world is Ghana at 96%. The least is China at 14%. The US rate of religiosity is at 60%. However, the greatest rise in Atheism occurred in France, which is now at 29%.   See Report:  http://redcresearch.ie/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/RED-C-press-release-Religion-and-Atheism-25-7-12.pdf

Lt. Colonel Darin Haas, the head of the Sexual Assault Program at Fort Campbell, KY, was arrested in a domestic dispute (and subsequently fired from his job) for violating a restraining order and stalking his ex-wife.

Ulysses S. Grant was ashamed of the American invasion of Mexico in 1846 because Texas had no claim beyond the Nueces River… and Stephen Douglas referred to it as the “rape of Mexico.”  Many others, including Abraham Lincoln and John Quincy Adams, thought the war was only being fought to expand the area under which slavery could be legal and that it was unconstitutionally begun by President James Polk.

Wade Robson, an award-winning Australian dancer and choreographer, told Matt Lauer that Michael Jackson sexually abused him for years when he was a child. Although he denied this in 1993, he admits now that he was manipulated and brainwashed by Jackson and was “psychologically and emotionally unable to understand it was sexual abuse.” He hopes to inspire OTHER molestation victims to come forward with their story.

The IRS rules simply state that nonprofit CEOs should receive ‘reasonable compensation.’  According to the Chronicle of Philanthropy, 20 nonprofit CEOs earned a salary greater than $1 million in 2010 and 2011. See http://philanthropy.com/article/Nonprofit-Chief-Executives-Who/134328/

Greece has presented Germany with a bill in the amount of $200 billion for WWII reparations and for the repayment of a forced loan Greece gave Germany during the occupation.  Over 250,000 Greeks were killed when the Nazis invaded in April 1941.  Some towns lost every man over the age of 12.  Many Greeks had NOTHING after the Nazis left, and some said even their shoelaces were taken.

The stray dog problem in Romania is worse than ever with many dogs being shot in the streets or picked up by the dog mafia and left in “death camps” where they experience inhumane conditions with little food and water.  Animal rights activists want these camps either shut down or renovated.

French “daredevil” Philippe Petit was admired by the public in 1974 when he illegally walked a tightrope between the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center. Expelled from 5 schools when he was growing up and arrested over 500 times, he admits he doesn’t like “authority”.

An American Child

Vatican restorers have unveiled a fresco once owned by Pope Borgia, which may be the first European depiction of Native Americans. This painting of the Resurrection of Christ was completed in 1494, two years after Columbus’ voyage to the New World.  During his time in Haiti, Columbus and his men treated the Native Americans like “savages” (see http://www.michelleparsons.com/christopher–columbus-the-barbarian/)

For the first time in Israel’s history, police fought off thousands of Ultra-Orthodox Jews who were protesting the “Women of the Wall”, a Jewish women’s group that recently won a court ruling allowing them to pray at the Western Wall in Jerusalem just as men do. 

By studying rhino dung at the Chester Zoo in the UK, researchers have been able to determine the overall health of female rhinos as well as when they are most fertile. After a decade during which the zoo had no new baby rhinos, there have now been four births in the past four years. They hope to help other zoos around the world increase their birth rates also so many can be released back into the wild.  Rhinos are on the critically endangered list due to the demand by some cultures who use their horns for ornamental or medicinal purposes.

Human rights leaders in the UK are concerned about the anti-foreigner rhetoric of the extreme right wing of the Conservative Party, called UKIP.  Not only are they proposing a 5-yr freeze on permanent citizenship for immigrants, but they also want to secede from the EU.  Viewed as a party run by self-made businessmen, they also want to build more prisons, increase the military defense budget by 40%, reverse the partial bans on hunting and smoking and are opposed to gay marriage and adoption.

According to Save the Children, the DR Congo is the world’s most difficult place to be a mother.  A woman there has a 1 in 30 chance of dying during childbirth, 48,0000 babies die within 24 hrs of birth, and 1 in 6 children die of malnutrition before the age of 5.  Out of 176 countries surveyed, the top 10 best places to be a mother were in the “fairest skin” countries of the world (e.g. Finland, Sweden, Netherlands, Germany, etc.) while the bottom 10 were all in Sub-Sahara Africa.

China and South Korea view the recent visit by 168 Japanese officials to the Yasukuni Shrine (which honors WWII Japanese war dead as well as convicted war criminals) as a sign that Japan is becoming more militant and nationalistic.  Prime Minister Abe’s controversial comment that Japanese “aggression” during WWII is a matter of debate implied to many that his current government views their past aggression, expansion and colonial rule as a “proud history and tradition”.

During a speech celebrating the 20th Anniversary of the US Holocaust Memorial Museum, Bill Clinton said that science has proved through DNA that all humans are 99.9% genetically the same.  So why then do so many of us concentrate on our “differences” instead of our “common humanity”?  Clinton believes the lessons from the Holocaust are still relevant today, and that it’s  our intolerance of others that  is still “the major cause of heartbreak around the world”.

Facial hair transplants for Muslim men are on the rise in Turkey, Saudia Arabia and the UAE.  A full beard is seen by some as a “God given sign of manhood” and a direct command from the Prophet Muhammad who wanted his followers to look different and distinct from non-believers (e.g. Jews, Christians, Pagans, etc.).

Kenneth Bae, an American tour guide from Washington state and a devout Christian, has just been sentenced to 15 years hard labor in North Korea. He was convicted of  “hostile acts against the regime” but human rights activists believe he was arrested for photographing starving children as well as public executions of government dissenters. Others claim North Korea wants to just use him as a “bargaining chip” with the US over the nuclear arms issue.

The Dutch Prince of Orange (aka William the Silent because he was legendary for keeping his opinion to himself) was supposedly the first head of state to be assassinated by handgun (1584). He was murdered by Catholic Frenchman Balthasar Gerard because he betrayed the Spanish king and the Catholic religion. Gerard was brutally tortured afterwards. His right hand was burned off with a red-hot iron, and then he was quartered and disembowelled alive.

Laotian civil rights activist and Asian Nobel Prize winner Sombath Somphone has been missing since Dec. 15th. It is believed he was abducted by Communist authorities who were trying to silence him and stop change from occurring. Before he went missing, he was educating rural villagers and organizing local meetings where they could speak up for their rights.  Laos is still a police state where speech and media are tightly controlled.

Leona Helmsley, who was nicknamed the “Queen of Mean”, was once quoted as saying: “Only the little people pay taxes.” She was eventually convicted of the white-collar crime of tax fraud but served only 19 months. Other famous tax evaders include: Martin Luther King, Willie Nelson, Nicholas Cage, Marc Anthony, Wesley Snipes, Dionne Warwick, OJ Simpson, Sinbad, Richard Hatch, Pete Rose, Spiro Agnew and Al Capone.

Nothing will ever change if we don’t have the courage to speak up against corruption, illegal activities and crimes against humanity. Individual “whistleblowers” are often persecuted because they are easy targets. We need to come together and support those who are telling the truth.  http://whistleblowerdirectory.com/

Referred to as the “marshmallow generation” in Australia, further studies have shown that children who have over-protective parents are more likely to be bullied.  Buffering a child from negative experiences makes them more vulnerable, but “parenting that includes clear rules about such behaviour while being supportive and emotionally warm is most likely to prevent victimization”.

Controversial “Octomom‘ Nadya Suleman is now facing charges of welfare fraud. In addition to state assistance, this mother of 14 (who is infatuated with Angelina Jolie) has made a semi-steady income through striptease, filming of a solo porn video and “celebrity” boxing events. She has also filed for bankruptcy, gone through rehab for drug addiction, and is currently being investigated for child neglect, property damage and not paying back rent.

Very few women have been allowed to work in the conservative patriarchal Muslim town of Ayvelik, Turkey. A community project was recently started that hires local women to produce fashionable handbags made from discarded trash to both reduce waste as well as provide the women with a reliable income for the first time in their lives.

Adapted from Shakespeare’s Hamlet, the 1945 film “Leave Her to Heaven” features a beautiful socialite who jilts one man to marry another. Her pathological jealousy toward anyone that her husband cares about causes her to commit murder and try to “trap” others. Starring Gene Tierney as the femme fatale, Cornel Wilde (husband/accessory to the crimes), Jeanne Crain (victim/wholesome sister) and Vincent Price (jilted lover/lawyer).

Almost HALF of the 166 prisoners at the US-run Guantanamo Bay prison in Cuba are on a hunger strike. Many have been detained for over a decade without ever having been charged of a crime or put on trial. Some have already been “cleared for release” but remain because of restrictions imposed by Congress. They are also protesting their living conditions and the inhumane treatment they receive, including disrespect of their right to prayer.

Saint Barbara, who lived in 4th century Turkey, spent most of her life locked up in a fortress tower upon orders by her rich, tyrannical father. When he discovered she converted to Christianity during her confinement, he beheaded her himself but was struck and killed by lightening immediately afterwards.  St. Barbara, after which the city of Santa Barbara is dedicated, is the protector against thunder and lightning and revered by soldiers and miners who face sudden death from their work with dangerous explosives.

After Germany’s defeat in WWII, at least 12 million German-speaking civilians were forcibily ejected from their places of birth (in Czechoslovakia, Hungary, Romania, Yugoslavia, Poland and the Netherlands) by order of the United States, Britain, and the Soviet Union. In the largest episode of forced migration in history (and the European atrocity that no one ever talks about), an estimated 500,000 people died from starvation, disease, and inhumane treatment.

Indian millionaire, Datta Phuge, has bought what is believed to be the world’s most expensive shirt. Made entirely of GOLD, and costing $250,000, Datta said this was his “dream” and a good investment. He does wear it out in public but brings along an entourage of 30-40 relatives to safeguard him.

Production of Opium in Afghanistan has TRIPLED since NATO-led troops took over in 2006.  Viktor Ivanov, the head of Russia’s Federal Drug Control Service, criticized the US/NATO occupiers’ unwillingess to destroy the opium crops (following orders given in 2010 by Gen. Stanley A. McChrystal):   “As long as there are opium poppy fields, there will be trafficking.” Afghanistan is currently the producer of 90% of the world’s heroin.

After the bombing at the Munich Olympic games in 1972, marathon runner Frank Shorter refused to give in to fear and went on to win a gold medal. He did not want the perpetrators to “win” in their attempt to terrorize. Frank also spoke out in 2011 about the violence he and his siblings faced growing up with a father who severely abused them. See the following article and short eight minute video:  http://www.runnersworld.com/print/29182?page=single

Hitler believed we are all capable of small, petty lies, but few would believe that anyone would be bold or brazen enough to tell a BIG lie. So hence, it must be true, particularly if it is told over and over again in simple terms.  Propaganda can “brainwash” a society.

Parkinson’s patients face prejudice and verbal abuse on a daily basis. They are often mistaken for being drunk or on drugs because of symptoms such as slurred speech, hand or head tremors and a shuffling walk. Less commonly known symptoms can also include expressionless face, drooling, rigid muscles, quiet or monotone voice, stooped position and difficulty swallowing. This disease is on the rise, and more tolerance and patience by the public is needed.

Many Japanese, who have always clung to the popular myth that their nation is primarily middle class, are having dificulty adjusting to the statistics that show that one out of six people live below the poverty level.  But also suprising was the government’s admission that it had been keeping poverty statistics secret since 1998.

The “skywalking” craze started in Moscow where roofers illegally climb a skyscraper, hang out on a ledge without safety harnesses, and later post their photo on the internet. They have discovered a world where no rules or laws apply, where they can be heroes even if for only a few minutes. “It’s a form of escapism that cries out for attention and recognition,” a Moscow psychologist says.

It’s the 3rd richest country in the world with one of the lowest unemployment rates, yet Singapore is ranked as the most “Emotionless” society in the world. Only a third of the population feel any emotion (positive or negative) on a daily basis. Classified as highly productive and discliplined people, one researcher gave his explanation of these poll results: “We are taught to keep going and not make much of a fuss.”

According to the 2010 National Survey of Congregations, Christian churches in the US remain one of the most segregated places in American life. Almost 90% have no racial diversity, a statistic that has barely changed since Martin Luther King pointed this out in 1956. But when surveyed, most parishioners prefer a multi-cultural environment.

Ten years after US Marines toppled the statue of Saddam Hussein, Iraq remains a divided country without a real identity, a flag or an anthem. For some, April 9, 2003 was a day of liberation from a cruel and oppressive regime. For others, it will only be a reminder of all the death, destruction and occupation that followed.  Is War really the solution?

There is much evidence that the most dangerous organized crime syndicate in the US, the Aryan Brotherhood, is working closely with the Mexico Mafia in drug trafficking, prostitution and sanctioned murders. This White Supremacist group marks themselves with distinctive tattoos.

Dachau was the first Nazi concentration camp in Germany. Over 200,000 prisoners from more than 30 countries were held there during the years of the Third Reich, of whom two-thirds were political prisoners (from all walks of life) and nearly one-third Jews. They all suffered beyond human measure, and many died from torture, starvation, disease, horrific living conditions, medical experiments and hard labor. Even though it was not classified as an “extermination camp”, did any of these prisoners really believe that God was helping them?

More than 28,000 rivers in China have disappeared. Officials have attributed the decline to global warming and outdated mapping techniques, but many experts say that water levels have declined everywhere.  They believe that explosive economic development and poor environmental stewardship may be more at fault.

Within 30 minutes after a request for help on the radio, over 300 motor bikes and taxies in a remote village in Peru rushed to the local airport to light up the runway for a plane that needed to take three seriously ill people to a hospital. 

Since 1964, there has been no freedom of the press in Myanmar (formerly called Burma).  For the first time in almost 50 years, sixteen privately owned newspapers have been granted licenses to publish without government control.

Australia has appointed a commission to investigate wide spread reports of child sexual abuse. More than 5,000 victims are expected to testify. “The simplest way to describe it is to say it is psychological bondage. Essentially, what happens is that the abuser uses whatever power they have to set up a relationship where the victim is persuaded into living within the abuser’s reality. You do not have the option to say no really. I think the biggest thing it will do is bring openness to the whole issue and a measure of responsibility. Abuse operates in a culture of secrecy,” Claire Pascoe, a sexual abuse victim told Press TV.

It’s been over sixty years since the book 1984 was first published, but the ideas expressed by author George Orwell are more relevant than ever. This futuristic society was in a constant state of war and overseen by the god-like “Big Brother” who controlled everything.   Individuality was outlawed… and propaganda, surveillance, mind control and paranoia were his tools.

Opting for a generic drug over a brand name could save billions of dollars per year. They are safe, tested and FDA approved. Drug makers are strong lobbyists and will fight to uphold their patents and eliminate competition. Last year, a Canadian court ended the patent on Pfizer 2 years before it ran out.

Despite tough economic times around the world, art collectors are still willing to pay top dollar for paintings such as this version of Edvard Munch’s “The Scream” which  sold last year for $119 million US.

Racism has existed since the beginning of time. We will never achieve peace until we can look at our neighbor and see his heart and not his skin color.

A judge has ruled that Oscar Pistorius can leave South Africa and compete in int’l track meets despite the fact that he has been charged with the murder of his girlfriend. Known as the “Bladerunner“, he is the country’s most famous athlete but police have confirmed his history of violence against women.

In the Wizard of Oz, Dorothy says “There’s No Place Like Home!”.  For those of us who have been away for awhile, we should try and figure out who and what feels like home …. and then return as soon as possible.

This picture of a child in the Palestinian city of Hebron is symbolic of the daily struggle the people of this region face. In Hebrew, the word hebron means to “Unite as Friends”; in Arabic, it means “Friend” or “Beloved of the Merciful”. This holy city is now deeply divided and full of hatred and intolerance.

Millions of people watched last week’s papal inauguration where Pope Francis pleaded for protection of the poor, the weak and the environment: “I would like to ask all those who have positions of responsibility in economic, political and social life, and all men and women of goodwill: Let us be protectors of creation, protectors of God’s plan inscribed in nature, protectors of one another and of the environment.”

This “hotel” website is a unique campaign to bring attention to the 3,500 homeless people that live every day in freezing conditions in Gothenburg, Sweden. Visitors to the site are shown ten different “rooms” used by the homeless around the city and you can donate by booking a room for one or more nights starting at around $15.

Many very influential people were members of the Klu Klux Klan, including U.S. Presidents Calvin Coolidge, Warren Harding, Harry Truman, Woodrow Wilson and William McKinley, Gen. Robert E. Lee, Supreme Ct Justices Hugo Black and Edward White, and Sen. Robert Byrd.  Note that it is believed that Hitler’s Nazi Party adopted the KKK salute.

According to Transparency International, the LEAST Corrupt Countries in the world are Denmark, Finland and New Zealand.  The MOST Corrupt Countries are Afghanistan, North Korea and Somalia.   Corruption translates into human suffering.

The Basra maternity hospital in southern Iraq has seen a 60% rise in birth defects since 2003. Doctors believe exposure to heavy metals in ammunition during the war is the only explanation.

Footballer Giorgos Katidis was banned for life from playing for Greece after giving a Nazi salute during a game. The Greek Football Foundation has stated it will take whatever steps necessary to promote peace, solidarity, cooperation and respect.

According to Native American folklore, the Raven symbolizes change and transformation. They are also the bearers of magic and can heal long distance. Interestingly, they were also thought to be the keepers of secrets and can help us expose the truth behind those secrets and wing us back to health and harmony.

Robert Mugabe, Prime Minister of Zimbabwe, attends the pope’s installation despite EU travel sanctions. Mugabe, a conservative Catholic, is viewed by many as a racist dictator comparable to Hitler. He has previously referred to gays as being “worse than dogs and pigs”.

Like North Korea, China also has its own “gulags” (referred to as re-education thru labor camps). This is where many are sent to be “silenced” if they cross gov’t officials. It is estimated that 300 of these camps still exist with over 50,000 prisoners.

Saint Patrick is credited with bringing Christianity to Ireland and ridding the country of the Druids, who he called “snakes”. Druids were priests of the Celtic society and were teachers of moral philosophy and science. According to the legend, St Patrick stamped his staff on the ground when he encountered a Druid who would not convert. He would then walk away, and his followers would attack and kill the non-believer.

Shane Todd, an engineer who was working for a company in Singapore, was found dead in his home last June. Singaporean authorities called it a suicide, but his parents believe he may have been murdered. They say that he lived in fear that his employers were using him to help China get its hands on sensitive material that could breach American security. He was working on an amplifier device powered by gallium nitride.

The co-founder of the brutal Khmer Rouge has died while standing trial for genocide and war crimes. Ieng Sary (Brother #3) was arrested in 2007.  Led by the notorious Pol Pot, the Khmer Rouge killed an estimated 2 million Cambodians through starvation, overwork, or execution in an attempt to create an agrarian utopia.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has been forced to give up his alliance with the religious political party, the “Ultra-Orthodox”, and form a new coalition government that will be more neutral and more secular than ever before. This new government is expected to push for restarting peace negotiations with Palestine.

In a historic move, Queen Elizabeth has signed a new charter that stamps out “discrimination against homosexual people and promotes the ‘empowerment’ of women”.   Impacting 54 commonwealth nations, this is the first time the Queen has taken a stand supporting gay rights in her 61-year reign.  This also could affect the lines of succession in the monarchy if William and Kate’s first child is a daughter.

Based on estimates from 2011, this chart is a ranking of the world’s most “miserable” countries based on their unemployment and inflation rates.

Multi-millionaire John McAfee, founder of the McAfee anti-virus software, was arrested in Belize in April 2012 for operating a meth lab & possession of an unlicensed weapon. He was released without prosecution but is now wanted for questioning over the death of a neighbor in Belize.  A few days prior to the murder, he donated equipment to the local police dept.  Evading arrest & adopting a diguise, he is now living in Oregon and blogging.

The newest Chief of Police of Coopertown, TN is trying to clean up the town’s police dept which has been plagued by racism. He is requiring all applicants to take a polygraph test to determine if they are racist. Coopertown is 94.58 percent White and 2.22 percent Black.

The most well-known image in the East Side Gallery (what is remaining of the Berlin Wall) depicts the alliance between Soviet leader Leonid Brezhnev and the GDR’s Erich Honeckerare. The text tranlslates as, “My God, help me outlive this deadly love.” This mural and others painted by famous artists from around the world may be torn down and replaced with high-end apts if local protests are not successful.

Saudi Arabia’s Prince Alwaleed Bin Talal is rumored to have cut ties with Forbes Magazine over his ranking on the global billionaires list.  Forbes puts Alwaleed at 26th place, with a net worth of 20 billion dollars, while he claims a net worth of $28 billion (which should be 16th place).

Reports that Iran’s leading nuclear scientist, Dr. Mohsen Fakhrizadeh, was present for North Korea’s third nuclear test on Feb. 11 are raising concerns that Iran has outsourced its nuclear program to North Korea. Evidence of military cooperation between Iran and North Korea has been compounded by satellite images showing distinct similarities between an Iranian missile launch pad and a North Korean missile facility.

The Crazy Horse monument in South Dakota has been in progress since 1948 and is far from completion, even though Mt Rushmore took only 14 years to finish.   Funding is a large part of the problem.  This Lakota warrior led his tribe numerous times against settlers and miners and won the Battle of Little Bighorn in 1876.

Warren Buffett and  Brazilian billionaire Jorge Paulo Lemann’s purchase of Heinz is a windfall for John Kerry, US Secretary of State.  Kerry, who is married to the heir of the Heinz fortune, owns $3M of Heinz stock and approximately $750,000 of Berkshire stock.  Shareholders will receive a 20% premium from the merger.

More than 25,000 elephants were killed last year due to the increasing demand for ivory from China. Although some poachers have been caught, it’s the investors that are never arrested.  Many are known but too influential to be prosecuted.

The “Kibera Peace Walls” youth project uses public art to encourage unity and peace between ethnic and political groups in Kenya to try and prevent any violence that may result from the election scheduled for tomorrow.  Kibera, one of Africa’s largest slums, was strongly affected by the violence from the last election in 2007.

Latin America has the largest number of Catholics in the world (41.3%) compared to Europe which has only 23.7%.  So why are only 19 cardinals from Latin America eligible to participate in the new papal election while Europe has 60 cardinals voting?

Gordillo Morales, one of the most powerful women in Mexican politics, has been accused of embezzling over $200M of the Teacher Union’s funds to pay for plastic surgery, private jets, a Nieman Marcus account and 2 luxury homes in San Diego.

UNESCO could pull the Great Barrier Reef’s World Heritage status if proposed coal facilities go through.  Australian gov’t critized for not doing more to protect the reef.

Records reveal that some of the UK’s wealthiest familes received the modern equivalent of billions of pounds in compensation for “loss of property” after slavery was abolished in the British colonies in 1833. The freed slaves, however, received nothing.

Along with Jay-Z, David Beckham, and Barack Obama, Pope Benedict XVI was named by Esquire magazine in 2007 as one of the best-dressed men in the world.  In addition to wearing red Prada shoes, he has also been photographed with Serengeti glasses.

Turkish Air uniforms have become conservative.  Some believe this is to appease the strict traditionalist views of the Turkish government, which owns 50% of the airline.

Over 90% of Cubans voted in the recent one-party election.  Proponents say the lack of multiple parties or political campaigning keeps corruption and special-interest money out of elections. Critics call it a farce.

Class rooms in Uganda can have up to 80 students, and many have no books.  Learning is all done orally.  The below organization collects donations for books and buys them locally to save costs:

Finland ranked #1 as the country with the most amount of press freedom, while the UK is ranked at #29 and the US at #32.   Japan fell 31 places to #53 due to nuclear disaster coverage.  Singapore, China and North Korea remain toward the bottom at #149, #173, and #178 respectively.

The bones of Richard III (1452-1485) were found under a UK carpark. It is believed that he killed family members to gain power and used wit and flattery to deviously plan the downfall of enemies and supposed friends.

Rosa Parks is being honored today for her fight against racism.   She was once quoted as saying: “The only tired I was, was tired of giving in.”

Chess classes are mandatory in Armenian schools.  The game strengthens memory and teaches critical thinking, how to play honestly and how to handle defeat.

Millions of Hindu devotees make a pilgrammage to the holy River Ganges to cleanse them of their sins.   According to ancient mythology, this Festival also celebrates the victory of God’s eternal battle with the Demons.

The saying goes:  “Where There’s a Will, There’s a Way”

An 8-story Apt Bldg in Alexandria, Egypt collapses.  Built only 5 years ago, this type of collapse is typically blamed on violations of building specs and bribery of gov’t officials.

The Italian mafia clan Camorra, who have taken over garbage disposal in the region of Campania, frequently mix industrial and household garbage together and dump near public roads.  This has led to severe soil and air pollution and caused a dramatic increase in birth defects and cancer.

High-end bicycles like Brompton Junction’s foldable bike may soon become a mainstream trend in Chinese cities.  They move more quickly through grid-locked traffic, can help prevent pollution and are good exercise.  Air quality is a major concern, however.

The Hawaiian lei is a symbol of eternal love. It is also a symbol that life is temporary. As the flowers fade and die, we are reminded to live in the moment and cherish those we love the most.

Scientists have discovered that the cousin of the HIV virus actually developed in primates millions of years ago. Knowing how they fought off the virus will help us develop human immunity to AIDS.

Sikhism is a blend of the Hindu and Muslim beliefs.  Their guiding principles are Truth, Equality, Freedom, Justice and Karma.

Nairobi Prison is one of the most unsanitary and congested in the world. Originally built to house 800, it now holds over 3,000 inmates. Many are not even given clothing.

Every year, a team of experienced eco-friendly climbers clean up trash left by others on Mt Everest.  Last spring, over 8 tons were picked up.

In an effort to combat eating disorders and promote healthy looking bodies, Israel has a law banning skinny models and photoshop fraud.

After his wife dies in childbirth, an Indian rickshaw driver (who is unable to pay for babysitters) takes his one-month old daughter with him to work.

The Nigerian military have been sent into Mali to help restore peace to the region.  They have one of the srongest armies in Africa, and many of their officers are trained in Pakistan.

The Golden Reception Room of the Kremlin is a sharp contrast to the reality of the average Moscovite.

Research published by the Journal of Experimental Biology reveal that crabs feel electric shock. Crabs are often killed and prepared without any regard for whether they feel pain.

USAID has funded midwife training to help reduce the high rate of infant mortality in Liberia.  Due to a poor health care system and inadequate transportation, more than half the births occur without trained medical assistance.

Air quality in Beijing yesterday was so hazardous that it went off the index charts, surpassing 700 mcg per cubic meter.  The World Health Organization considers 25 mcg to be a safe level.

About 15,000 Kurds from all over Europe protest the death of three female Kurdish peace activists who were shot in the head in Paris

The United States has been secretly releasing detainees from a military prison in Afghanistan as part of negotiations with insurgent groups.  The released prisoners must promise to give up violence.

A monumental underwater museum was formed in the waters surrounding Cancun to help lure tourists away from fragile coral reefs

Buddhist Monks light candles in remembrance of an Indian woman who died after a gang rape on a moving bus.

Human rights workers are outraged that a 70-yr old Saudi Arabia man marries a 15-yr old girl after paying a $20K dowry.  Saudi Arabia is ranked 2nd as worst suppressor of women.

Polish prosecutors have opened an investigation into a Swedish artist’s claim that he used the ashes of Holocaust victims (taken from crematorium furnaces in the Majdanek death camp) to make a painting.

Members of the group Anonymous, wearing Guy Fawkes masks, are protesting that more people should be charged in the case of two high school football players accused of  raping a 16-year-old girl in Steubenville, Ohio.  One is carrying a sign that says “Injustice & Corruption Will Not Be Tolerated. The World is Watching”.

Coptic Christians, who represent about 10 percent of Egypt’s 85 million people, are celebrating their first Christmas on January 7th under an Islamist president.  Some Christians are afraid that the new constitution will open the door for more strict Islamic law in Egypt.

Annual cake show in Bangalore, India represents different cultures and faiths from around the world. This is a replica of Mumbai’s Taj Mahal Palace Hotel made from five tons of sugar.

Environmentalists are outraged after approximately 18,000 shark fins were discovered drying out on a rooftop in Hong Kong, hidden from public view. The delicacy, often used in soup, is very popular in China. But the practice of fisherman removing the animal’s fin and throwing it back into the sea to die, and the over-harvesting of sharks, has begun to change public opinion

If the average Beijing resident spent his ENTIRE YEARLY INCOME on housing, he could buy only 10 square feet of residential property

Clowns pose in Mexico City.  A poll of nearly 150,000 people around the world says seven of the world’s 10 countries with the most upbeat attitudes are in Latin America

Safety and working conditions in China are in question as a laborer walks between scaffolding at a highway construction project in the Anhui province

A third of South African women use skin lighteners.  Singer Mshoza made headlines when she stated she was “tired of being ugly” and wanted to be “Christina Aguilera white”.   Those opposed say she is covering up “a gift from God”.

There are more than 20 bagpipe and drum bands in Sialkot, Pakistan (the largest producer of bagpipes in the world)

Indian Jews Descended from one of the “Lost Tribes” Return to Israel after 8th Century Exile

A creek polluted with trash in a Philipino slum

Muslims and Hindus in Bali have been Living Together Harmoniously for over 300 Years

Famous Painter, Writer, Poet and Fashion Designer Yayoi Kusama has been Living in Seiwa Mental Hospital since 1977.  She Suffered Severe Abuse as a Child, and Many of Her Works Deal with Sexual Obsession

Despite Protests, Italian Winemaker Lunardelli Continues to Sell Wine with Labels Depicting not just Hitler and Other Prominent Nazis but also Mussolini, Stalin and Franco

There Are Over 1 Million Orphaned Children in China

Orangutans are found only in the rainforests of Borneo and Sumatra and are among the most intelligent of primates

War Weary Syrain Refugees in Lebanon Struggle to Find Basic Supplies of Food, Water, and Medical Care

Same Sex Legal in Washington State