We go back in time to the middle ages where the idea for Halloween is first pitched to a group of enthusiastic villagers who quickly turn it into a binge-drinking, slut-fest.
SuperNews! is moving to Thursday nights!
Catch all new half-hour episodes beginning Nov 12 at 11/10c on Current TV.
www.current.com/supernewsWe go back in time to the middle ages where the idea for Halloween is first pitched to... more
Mexico is filled with history, tradition, and celebrations. In the state of Guanajuato lies the town of San Miguel De Allende. It was recently named a World Heritage site and was directly involved with Mexico's Priest Miguel Hildalgo and General Ignacio Allende finally gaining its independence from Spain on September 16th 1821 after 11 years of war. Local Lorenzo Almaguer explains some of the favorite local traditions, how San Miguel De Allende came to be, and what to expect from the Independence day festivities, one of the most popular in Mexico.Mexico is filled with history, tradition, and celebrations. In the state of Guanajuato... more
A man walking from Texas to his hometown in Washington state has had a cross to bear for months. James Strickland says he's been dragging a 12-foot cross from Longview, Texas, to his Aberdeen home since May.
The 39-year-old says he was praying about his troubled past when he received a message to start walking on a journey of renewal. He took along the cross, which rolls on wheels with his belongings tied near the bottom.
He expects to reach home Tuesday or Wednesday. Strickland says the trek has taken him through Texas, Oklahoma, Colorado, Utah and Idaho.
He says he hopes to reconcile with the mother of his two children.
Aberdeen police Capt. John Green told KXRO-AM that Strickland also has several misdemeanor warrants to clear up...A man walking from Texas to his hometown in Washington state has had a cross to bear... more
Image: A counselor holds up cards used to educate women about female genital mutilation (FGM) in Minia,
Scandinavian courts are taking action against immigrants who still practice FGM on their daughters.When she was 11, a Swedish-born girl was taken on vacation to her mother’s native Somalia. The mother wanted to “make her daughter clean” and paid a man to cut off her daughter’s clitoris and labia while two women held her down.
Afterward, the girl was stitched to her urethra.
No anesthesia was used.
Last year, at age 19, a Swedish court convicted the mother for those illegal acts, awarding the victim record demages.
Scandinavians — rather than quietly recoiling as immigrant mothers take their Europe-born daughters on vacation to Africa be circumcised — are fighting the traffic in female genital mutilation (FGM).
Sweden, Norway and Denmark are doggedly pursuing perpetrators of FGM, practiced by African and Middle Eastern cultures. Those perpetrators are mostly the immigrant mothers of the young girls.
Jail sentences, record damages and controversial immigration laws are Scandinavia’s weapons in this war. Meanwhile Africans — who have immigrated with their families for a better life in northern Europe — wring their hands, imploring Westerners to understand that they are doing what they think is best for their daughters.
“The reasons given for female circumcision are traditional, cultural and religious. It is believed to encourage cleanliness, to control promiscuity, enhance the males’ sexual pleasure, preserve virginity and protect against unwanted pregnancies,” said Timnit Embaye of the International Organization for Migration (IOM) in Kenya.
But Scandinavian leaders refuse to interpret tolerance of female circumcision as politically correct.
FGM "is a very serious assault on children,” said Norway’s Secretary of Justice Knut Storberget. “It is important that they will be given a chance to value this independently when they are old enough to understand.”
* * * * * Do you think tradition, culture and religion are a good enough reasons for this practice? Should Western countries such as the US interfere with this practice? If so, how can this practice be stopped?
The Festival of Jewish culture “Negba – Verso Sud” makes its debut in the Italian region of Puglia: in seven towns, with Trani first in line, comes a programme of concerts, performances, exhibitions and tastingsThe Festival of Jewish culture “Negba – Verso Sud” makes its debut in the... more
I feel that it is relevant point out that Leonard Peltier has been incarcerated for thirty-three years based upon what your own courts have admitted was fabricated evidence, both withheld, and then later discovered to be tampered with and questionable. These very courts have admitted that Leonard Peltier did not commit the murders of FBI agents at Pine Ridge Reservation in 1976. It is clear Leonard Peltier was upon the peoples at Pine Ridge during that time.I feel that it is relevant point out that Leonard Peltier has been incarcerated for... more
Next - hopefully you can join Peltier supporters at Lewisburg on July 28th - the date of the parole hearing and World Day of Prayer for Leonard. If not - please hold something in your own area - even if its just you and a sign at a coffee house. People will ask you about it and you"ll have an opportunity to share. By the way - if you're feeling uneasy about case details - the broadcast above will give you the needed information.
Last - the White House has a comment line. The number is 202 - 456 - 1111. Call and message that you are in support of parole for indigenous political prisoner Leonard Peltier.
Today is July 10th...July 28th is so close...take a moment as you read this to send thoughts, prayers his way. We're so close...freedom. It is time...Greetings friends...
First off - thank you for your efforts. We know that Leonard... more
What's the best way to show the world that you love America this July 4th? Though we don't recommend it, you could always shoot some bottle rockets out of your butt!
infoMania is a half-hour satirical news show that airs on Current TV. The show puts a comedic spin on the 24-hour chaos and information overload brought about by the constant bombardment of the media. Hosted by Conor Knighton and co-starring Brett Erlich, Sarah Haskins, Ben Hoffman, and Sergio Cilli, the show airs on Thursdays at 10 pm Eastern and Pacific Times and can be found online at http://current.com/infomania/ or on Current TV. And make sure to check out our facebook profile for special features at http://infomaniafacebook.com.What's the best way to show the world that you love America this July 4th? Though we... more
From Kari Ann Cowan - Leonard's niece (my comments follow):
I received a disturbing call from Leonard today. He is now having blood in his urine and he desperately needs to have an oncologist examine him. A general practitioner operating in the prison system is not sufficient; he needs to be seen by a specialist.
Your support with letters and phone calls to the proper officials is greatly needed at this time. The urgency is due to his previous scare of cancer. Only a specialist can determine the state of his health. According to his medical he is supposed to receive an exam every three months, but according to Leonard he has only been seen once a year. How can this be?
As everyone knows one examination can give you warning, anyone who has had a prognosis or scare with prostate cancer, you need to see an oncologist and be examined regularly. He has never received proper medical attentions for his medical problems, unless this problem is addressed by his supporters he will not get this matter taken care of. As we found when he did not have his diabetic supplies last year, until the outcry was so great. Then they could not deny him.
Please ask the warden at Lewisburg Prison to give Leonard Peltier the proper medical attention he has the right to.
Warden Bledsoe ~ Warden for Lewisburg Prison
The prison number is: (570) 523-1251 Fax: 570-522-7745 E-mail address: LEW/EXECASSISTANT@BOP.GOV Lets get him the treatment he deserves.From Kari Ann Cowan - Leonard's niece (my comments follow):
I received a disturbing... more
Give a listen and feel the passion.
In this edition of Weekend Update, Russell Means tells of the gap between belief and understanding. Why is the American public accepting war as the only commerce? Why accept a government that can only provide surveillance? Why the focus on the minuscule differences that separate, rather than the large commanality we share? Russell Means speaks to these and points how we can bridge some of the chasms between us.Give a listen and feel the passion.
In this edition of Weekend Update, Russell Means... more
Greetings friends,
We need to keep up our efforts in this critical period before the parole hearing! A couple of thoughts:
Certainly if you are able, we hope that you will join Leonard Peltier supporters at Lewisburg on July 28th! How amazing for Leonard to know that during his meeting with the board, many of you will be outside the prison in solidarity with our brother.
If you cannot go to Lewisburg – organize an event in your area – a vigil to be in solidarity with those in Lewisburg. We would love to see rallies going on from mid July on thru the 28th. July 18th is a Saturday – might be ideal.
BUT FIRST – Please contact the LP DOC just in case there is something already organized in your area from one of the support groups – they are an incredible voice for Leonard. Ask for Ben or Wanbli and they will be able to put you in touch with a support group in your area. www.whoisleonardpeltier.in
fo or call 701 235 2206.
For our supporters outside the United States: gatherings at U.S. embassy sites would be powerful. We would like these to occur mid-July -July 18th is a Saturday so might be good for people because of work etc. Please let me know details by July 20th, so we can let our legal team know this information well ahead of the hearing: where, how many people attended, and a light overview of what happened. (July 20 deadline)
And if for some reason you just can’t…hold a good thought for our brother that day. Keep the energy flowing for freedom. July 28th is World Day of Prayer for Leonard – join us in whatever your practice is that day – keep all the thoughts flowing to him that day…thank you. Hold a sign on a corner in support, gather with friends at a coffee house with a sign for Leonard, whatever you can – and know there will be millions of people around the world doing exactly the same all day on the 28th…Invite people to join us…now is the time for freedom!
Know that you are all very important and every thought is an action, every letter important, every message valued by all of us – but most of all Leonard.Greetings friends,
We need to keep up our efforts in this critical period before the... more
Rez Bomb Starring Tamara Feldman, Trent Ford, Russell Means and Chris Robinson from Scottish director Steven Lewis Simpson and set on Pine Ridge Indian Reservation (the poorest place in the US)
"gripping and disturbing -- twist on Romeo and Juliet with a dash of Tarantino"
"this edgy and explosive film rocks as a nail-biter" The Times Colonist
REZ BOMB TO PLAY BILLY MILLS HALL ON PINE RIDGE MONDAY THE 29TH JUNE
We are planning on screening Rez Bomb at Billy Mills hall in Pine Ridge
village on Monday the 29th on the big screen.
The main screening is at 8pm but we may do additional screenings at 2.30pm
and 5.00pm. Tickets are $4.
DVD's shall also be on sale at the event and shall be discounted by $2 for
those holding a ticket for a screening. They can also be purchased at www.rezbomb.comRez Bomb Starring Tamara Feldman, Trent Ford, Russell Means and Chris Robinson from... more
What about sunrise
What about rain
What about all the things
That you said we were to gain
What about killing fields
Is there a time
What about all the things
That you said was yours and mine...
Did you ever stop to notice
All the blood we've shed before
Did you ever stop to notice
This crying Earth this weeping shore?
What have we done to the world
Look what we've done
What about all the peace
That you pledge your only son...
What about flowering fields
Is there a time
What about all the dreams
That you said was yours and mine...
Did you ever stop to notice
All the children dead from war
Did you ever stop to notice
This crying Earth this weeping shore
I used to dream
I used to glance beyond the stars
Now I don't know where we are
Although I know we've drifted far
Hey, what about yesterday (what about us)
What about the seas (what about us)
The heavens are falling down (what about us)
I can't even breathe (what about us)
What about Africans (what about us)
I ain't even you (what about us)
What about nature's worth (ooh ooh)
It's our planet's womb (ahat about us)
What about animals (what about it)
We've turned kingdoms to dust (what about us)
What about elephants (what about us)
Have we lost their trust (what about us)
What about crying whales (what about us)
We're ravaging the seas (what about us)
What about forest trails (ooh ooh)
Burnt despite our pleas (what about us)
What about the holy land (what about it)
Torn apart by creed (what about us)
What about the common man (what about us)
Can't we set him free (what about us)
What about children dying (what about us)
Can't you hear them cry (what about us)
Where did we go wrong (ooh ooh)
Someone tell me why (what about us)
What about babies born (what about it)
What about the days (what about us)
What about all their joy (what about us)
What about the man (what about us)
What about the crying man (what about us)
What about Abraham (what about us)
What about death again (ooh ooh)
Do we give a damnWhat about sunrise
What about rain
What about all the things
That you said we were... more
Leonard Peltier's first full parole hearing was held in 1993, at which time his case was continued for a 15-year reconsideration. Mr. Peltier has recently applied for and been granted a parole hearing. The hearing is scheduled for July 28, 2009. All supporters are encouraged to step up their efforts in support of parole for Leonard Peltier.
Below is our suggested letter for you to send. It is critical that everyone write - no matter where you are in the world. Please invite others you know to write letters as well.
Thank you. Your voice has never been more important for Leonard than now. He needs you - your heart, your writing...
Pray or whatever your practice with the Creator is - for Leonard and freedom....the time has come, for our action, and his freedom.
The Leonard Peltier Defense Offense Committee
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
United States Parole Commission
5550 Friendship Blvd., Ste. 420
Chevy Chase, MD 20815-7286
(Insert Date)
Re: LEONARD PELTIER #89637-132
Dear Commissioners,
I am writing in behalf of support for Parole for Leonard Peltier. While I am aware of the seriousness of the conviction, I am also aware that people have the ability to go forward out of the past and give to the larger society. I believe that is the case with Leonard Peltier.
I ask you to consider the humanitarian work he has done during his 33 years of incarceration. More than most people can ever do who are not locked up.
I ask you to consider his nomination for the Nobel Peace Prize for the 6th straight year. There are those who make light of this, but who else among us have had that honor.
He consistently donates his art work for charities such as battered women's shelters, halfway houses, alcohol and drug treatment programs, and Native American scholarship funds.
Mr. Peltier has won several awards including the North Star Frederick Douglas Award; Federation of Labor (Ontario, Canada) Humanist of the Year Award; Human Rights Commission of Spain International Human Rights Prize; and 2004 Silver Arrow Award for Lifetime Achievement.
He has expressed sadness for the tragedy that occurred that day at Oglala and pain for the families of the two agents and the Indian man that died that day.
Thirty-three years is a long time. I ask you to look with empathy upon a 64 year-old man who, over the 33 years, has done so much good while in prison, and I think has the ability to do even more good for the community if he were to be allowed parole.
While I know of the misconduct by government officials in his case, I will not bring details up because I am certain that you are aware of the misconduct, and will consider that as you have the discretion to rule above or below the guidelines. I would hope that you will exercise that discretion in favor of Leonard Peltier. It seems to me it would be a gross miscarriage of justice if he were left to die in prison.
Please grant parole.
Respectfully,
Your NameLeonard Peltier's first full parole hearing was held in 1993, at which time his case... more
I know in other countries, prisoners who have been held by their government have been placed in house arrest after they have attained international support as I have. If the BOP cannot guarantee my safety to the extent the prisoners here can, then I demand to be returned to my nation, Turtle Mountain, where I can be assured of my safety!
Turtle Mountain has issued a resolution to transfer me into their custody, and they have asked to meet with Obama on a nation-to-nation basis. This has to happen and it will when a lot of energy is placed behind it. In the past 18 days your efforts brought me out of the hole and to where there is a measure of safety.
Again, I want to thank everyone who wrote, called and emailed. My hand in appreciation is extended to those who have held rallies and protests on my behalf to call attention to the attack on me. I also extend my gratitude to Cynthia McKinney, former congresswoman for her recent letter to President Obama urging him to free other political prisoners and myself. In all these years, there have been so many people who have prayed for my safety and freedom from all faiths. There is power in those prayers and that is what I know will bring about my freedom. I can feel something different this time, and many others have expressed the same thought to me. So when you pray, don’t pray only for me, but the warriors of AIM who have died for our people, the victims of the “Reign of Terror” on Pine Ridge, and other victims who has suffered as we have. Pray for their families as well. They must not be forgotten and they must have justice!I know in other countries, prisoners who have been held by their government have been... more
In New Town ND – A collaborative effort by the Boys and Girls Club of The Three Affiliated Tribes, Fort Berthold Community College, the Three Affiliated Tribes as well as NDSU Extension Office and the TAT Agriculture Department, the Maakoti Summer Camp will again be held in the newly constructed Earthlodge Villages five miles west of New Town ND. The purpose of the camp is to generate an interest in math, science, engineering, and technology from a traditional holistic view. Traditional knowledge will be shared by elders from each of the three tribes.
The camp will be held in two segments, with K-5 going July 13th and 14th. Due to the age, these camps will be day camps with the family invited for evening activities. The 6th-12th grade will be July 15th – 17th. These will be overnight camps where students will be able to sleep in the Earthlodges and Tipis.In New Town ND – A collaborative effort by the Boys and Girls Club of The Three... more
I found this not only funny but also a great way to look at the archaic laws that govern our lives and see how they do not translate into days timesI found this not only funny but also a great way to look at the archaic laws that... more
Syria has a conservative Muslim society where many women still wear the hijab, and pre-marital sex is almost unheard of. But since its appearance in the market a decade ago, the demand for sexy lingerie has exploded.
Al-Hamidiyeh Souk – a large commercial quarter – stands in the shadow of the most famous mosque of Damascus. Inside you can buy carpets, antiques, water pipes and musical instruments – all of which are traditional market goods.
However, these days something else is drawing in the customers. Most of the regulars are married women, like Shahed, and mothers bolstering their daughters' dowries.Syria has a conservative Muslim society where many women still wear the hijab, and... more
In Ecuador, people burn effigies called Años Viejos that are styled to look like a negative figure from the past year (I like this idea a lot, maybe there's still time for me to build a Sarah Palin ...).
Spain and many other Spanish speaking countries eat twelve grapes in twelve seconds after the bell tolls midnight (my mother still sends me off with a baggy full of grapes for me and whoever I'm spending New Year's with ... newcomers to the tradition have a had time gulping them down so quickly).
And in the Netherlands, people relax with family until midnight, then they hit the streets.
More traditions from around the world at the link.In Ecuador, people burn effigies called Años Viejos that are styled to look like a... more
Richard Dawkins reveals that he not only likes Christmas carols, but had a tree when his daughter was younger. The world's most-famous atheist says he is not a "kill-joy" and enjoys family traditions on Christmas - just not church.Richard Dawkins reveals that he not only likes Christmas carols, but had a tree when... more
