The Price of Bail

24 murders and 9 rapes in 32 months committed by suspects on bail in just one county...

In two and a half years suspects let out on bail committed 24 murders and 9 rapes in one county alone, it was revealed last night.

The shocking statistics from Lancashire Police caused outrage - with one MP demanding a "far more vigorous system".

The figures showed that people on bail were responsible for 11,171 crimes across Lancashire between January 2007 and September 2009.

As well as the murders and rapes, they included 62 attempted murders, 63 other sexual offences, 45 arsons, 283 robberies, 667 burglaries and 3,100 shoplifting incidents.

Stunned local Tory MP Nigel Evans "The figures are very large indeed. These are obviously people who are repeat offenders."

Calling for a more rigorous system, he added: "They should be kept under lock and key in the future."

Kirk Bullen, of the Make Lancashire Safer charity, said "people are losing faith" in the system.

But police chiefs said far more people were being released on bail, while officers continued investigations and waited for forensic tests.

And Justice Secretary Jack Straw, whose constituency is in Lancashire, said courts were "toughening up" on bail. "They face a difficult decision but they get it right most of the time." he said

Story courtesy of www.policeoracle.com

HAPPY CHRISTMAS TO ALL BLOGGERS

I do not know how they do this, but I do know it is absolutely brilliant. Make sure your speakers are turned on. Enjoy!

Wise old Henrietta!

How to decrease your carbon footprint and help prevent climate change!

Tribute to Constable Bill Barker of Cumbria Police

Cumbrian police have confirmed that the body found on a beach on the county's west coast is that of 44-year-old Pc Bill Barker, who was swept away by torrential floods early this morning. Resisdents of the village of Cockermouth are seen being rescued from their homes by members of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution and the R.A.F Rescue Helicopters.

A man was rescued in Cockermouth in Cumbria after torrential rain caused rivers to burst their banks. Almost 15 inches of rain fell in 36 hours non-stop.

Cumbria Police chief constable Craig Mackey said: "It is with deep sadness that I can confirm that the body found on a beach at Allonby this afternoon is that of our friend and colleague Pc Bill Barker."

Father-of-four Pc Barker had worked for the force for 25 years as a traffic policeman and family liaison officer looking after bereaved families. Now, the day before they were due to celebrate his 45th birthday, his family are now mourning his loss.
"Pc Bill Barker, who has served the communities of Cumbria with the Constabulary for 25 years and currently works as a Roads Policing officer in Workington. He was directing motorists off the bridge, saving lives, when the tragic incident occurred," ACC Graham said.

"He is a valued colleague and friend of many officers and staff within the constabulary - and to those in West Cumbria where he lives and serves."

More than 250mm (9.8 inches) of rain fell in little over 24 hours in the area, causing the Rivers Derwent and Cocker to burst their banks.

Four bridges have now collapsed, main roads are blocked, schools are closed and more than 200 people have been forced to leave their homes in nearby Cockermouth overnight after the deluge struck.

PC Barker disappeared after Northside bridge, one of the main routes into Workington, collapsed in the early hours of this morning.

RNLI lifeboat operations manager Captain Brian Ashbridge said: "There is a massive current coming down through the Derwent so, although the sea isn't very rough, conditions for the RNLI volunteers searching in the river basin have been very challenging.

"It's absolutely horrendous. There is a huge amount of debris around in the water at the moment as well, which adds to the difficulties."

Hilary Benn, the Environment Secretary, said the downpour may have resulted in "the wettest day ever recorded" in famously rainy Cumbria.

He claimed the resulting flood in worst-hit town Cockermouth was "a one in a thousand year" occurence which could not have been prevented by the town's flood defences.

Police and fire services, the RNLI and RAF staff worked throughout the night, using lifeboats and wading chest-deep in water to rescue residents trapped in their homes in Cockermouth, Workington and Keswick. One worker finishing his shift this morning described the scene as close to "armageddon".

In Cockermouth, a tourist attraction because it is the birthplace of William Wordsworth but also a historic flooding hotspot because it sits between the rivers Cocker and Derwent, around 1,000 properties were thought to have been flooded and 50 people had to be airlifted to safety by helicopter.

A lifeboat commander told The Times that firemen had to break into a bank on Main Street to rescue two women trapped inside by flood waters of up to eight feet.

"There was a massive torrent going past the front of the building and they were on the first floor behind barred windows, said Sarah Nimmo-Scott, deputy divisional commander in the RNLI.

"In the end we had to get the fire brigade to basically break into Barclays Bank and they we shipped them out."

Gwenda Davies said was staying at a friend's home and both were trapped in upstairs. She described a "raging torrent" around six feet high in the lane outside the house.

"The water is now up to the downstairs ceiling and I can hear the furniture downstairs knocking on the ceiling," she said by phone. "The River Cocker is apparently one of the fastest flowing in the country apparently and we certainly know it now."

Tony Cunningham, MP for Workington, suggested the flood was “of biblical proportions” to be able to take down the Northside Bridge.

“I went down to the bridge last night and I’ve never seen the River Derwent as wide as it was," he said. “The force of the river was absolutely incredible. This is a stone bridge, to wash away a bridge of that size and dimension is incredible.”

The Army has now been called out to help the civilian emergency services to rescue people still trapped in their homes and begin to clean up as the water levels abate.

Mr Benn, who is in Cockermouth, said the while flood defences there had been strengthened recently, they were only built to withstand a "one-in-100-years flood".

"What we dealt with last night was probably more like one-in-a-1,000, so even the very best defences, if you have such quantities of rain in such a short space of time, can be over-topped," he told BBC Radio 4's Today programme.

Gordon Brown, the Prime Minister, contacted the chief constable of Cumbria Police to offer any Government assistance he needs.

"Our thoughts are with all those who have been impacted by these floods and our thanks go out to the emergency services who continue in their extraordinary efforts to help the people affected," he said.

Flooding has also been reported in Cork where the River Lee has burst its banks, and there were reports that a family of five including an 87-year-old woman had to be airlifted to safety from their home in the early hours of the morning.

Flooding was also reported in north-west Wales and in Dumfries and Galloway in Scotland, and the inclement weather caused widespread distruption on trains and roads around the country as well as at sea, where gale force seven winds raged.

The Environment Agency Floodline service has received more than 12,000 calls from members of the public over the last 48 hours and issued more than 43,000 flood alerts via phone, text, email and fax.

It currently has six severe flood warnings in place - all in Cumbria - 29 flood warnings, and 65 less serious flood watches.

Julian Mayes, a forecaster with MeteoGroup UK, the weather division of the Press Association, said the rainfall in Cumbria was an "historical event".

Mr Mayes said the levels of rain were equivalent to five or six months of rainfall typically experienced over London and the south east of England.

"The fact that there's eight feet of water in some places is not that surprising," he said.

"Primarily, it's the sheer quantity in the last 36 hours that has caused the flooding.

"But in November the ground is saturated. The rain can't get into the soil, it just runs off.

"That means rivers rise very quickly and suddenly."

T'was the month before Christmas

They say what happens in America happens here eventually.........oh hang on! It seems in many areas it already has!

T'was the month before Christmas*
*When all through our land,*
*Not a Christian was praying*
*Nor taking a stand.*
*See the PC Police had taken away,*
*The reason for Christmas - no one could say.*
*The children were told by their schools not to sing,*
*About Shepherds and Wise Men and Angels and things.*
*It might hurt people's feelings, the teachers would say*
* December 25th is just a ' Holiday '.*
*Yet the shoppers were ready with cash, checks and credit*
*Pushing folks down to the floor just to get it!*
*CDs from Madonna, an X BOX, an I-pod*
*Something was changing, something quite odd!*
*Retailers promoted Ramadan and Kwanzaa*
*In hopes to sell books by Franken & Fonda.*
*As Targets were hanging their trees upside down*
*At Lowe's the word Christmas - was no where to be found.*
*At K-Mart and Staples and Penny's and Sears*
*You won't hear the word Christmas; it won't touch your ears.*
*Inclusive, sensitive, Di-ver-si-ty*
*Are words that were used to intimidate me.*
*Now Daschle, Now Darden, Now Sharpton, Wolf Blitzen*
*On Boxer, on Rather, on Kerry, on Clinton !*
*At the top of the Senate, there arose such a clatter*
*To eliminate Jesus, in all public matter.*
*And we spoke not a word, as they took away our faith*
*Forbidden to speak of salvation and grace*
*The true Gift of Christmas was exchanged and discarded*
*The reason for the season, stopped before it started.*
*So as you celebrate 'Winter Break' under your 'Dream Tree'*
*Sipping your Starbucks, listen to me..*
*Choose your words carefully, choose what you say*
*Shout MERRY CHRISTMAS, not Happy Holiday !*
Please, all Christians join together and wish everyone you meet

***HAPPY CHRISTMAS***


Christ is The Reason for the Christ-mas Season!

I Only hope we find GOD again before it is too late ! !

Remarks from CBS Sunday Morning - Ben Stein
I Only hope we find GOD again before it is too late ! !

The following was written by Ben Stein and recited by him on CBS Sunday Morning Commentary.

My confession:

I am a Jew, and every single one of my ancestors was Jewish. And it does not bother me even a little bit when people call those beautiful lit up, bejeweled trees, Christmas trees. I don't feel threatened. I don't feel discriminated against.. That's what they are, Christmas trees.

It doesn't bother me a bit when people say, 'Merry Christmas' to me. I don't think they are slighting me or getting ready to put me in a ghetto. In fact, I kind of like it. It shows that we are all brothers and sisters celebrating this happy time of year. It doesn't bother me at all that there is a manger scene on display at a key intersection near my beach house in Malibu . If people want a creche, it's just as fine with me as is the Menorah a few hundred yards away.

I don't like getting pushed around for being a Jew, and I don't think Christians like getting pushed around for being Christians. I think people who believe in God are sick and tired of getting pushed around, period. I have no idea where the concept came from, that America is an explicitly atheist country. I can't find it in the Constitution and I don't like it being shoved down my throat.

Or maybe I can put it another way: where did the idea come from that we should worship celebrities and we aren't allowed to worship God as we understand Him? I guess that's a sign that I'm getting old, too. But there are a lot of us who are wondering where these celebrities came from and where the America we knew went to.

In light of the many jokes we send to one another for a laugh, this is a little different: This is not intended to be a joke; it's not funny, it's intended to get you thinking.

Billy Graham's daughter was interviewed on the Early Show and Jane Clayson asked her 'How could God let something like this happen?' (regarding Hurricane Katrina). Anne Graham gave an extremely profound and insightful response. She said, 'I believe God is deeply saddened by this, just as we are, but for years we've been telling God to get out of our schools, to get out of our government and to get out of our lives. And being the gentleman He is, I believe He has calmly backed out. How can we expect God to give us His blessing and His protection if we demand He leave us alone?'

In light of recent events... terrorists attack, school shootings, etc.. I think it started when Madeleine Murray O'Hare (she was murdered, her body found a few years ago) complained she didn't want prayer in our schools, and we said OK. Then someone said you better not read the Bible in school. The Bible says thou shalt not kill; thou shalt not steal, and love your neighbor as yourself. And we said OK.

Then Dr. Benjamin Spock said we shouldn't spank our children when they misbehave, because their little personalities would be warped and we might damage their self-esteem (Dr. Spock's son committed suicide). We said an expert should know what he's talking about. And we said okay..

Now we're asking ourselves why our children have no conscience, why they don't know right from wrong, and why it doesn't bother them to kill strangers, their classmates, and themselves.

Probably, if we think about it long and hard enough, we can figure it out. I think it has a great deal to do with 'WE REAP WHAT WE SOW.'

Funny how simple it is for people to trash God and then wonder why the world's going to hell. Funny how we believe what the newspapers say, but question what the Bible says. Funny how you can send 'jokes' through e-mail and they spread like wildfire, but when you start sending messages regarding the Lord, people think twice about sharing. Funny how lewd, crude, vulgar and obscene articles pass freely through cyberspace, but public discussion of God is suppressed in the school and workplace.

Are you laughing yet?

Funny how when you read this message, you will not tell many of your friends about it because you're not sure what they believe, or what they will think of you for drawing attention to it.

Funny how we can be more worried about what other people think of us than what God thinks of us.

Tell others about it if you think it has merit.

If not, then just disregard it... no one will know you did. But, if you disregard this thought process, don't sit back and complain about what bad shape the world is in.

My Best Regards, Honestly and respectfully,

Ben Stein

My thanks to my cousin Elfrieda in Florida for drawing my attention to this statement with much of which I fully concur!

Love & Sorrow with the Sparrows

I know this is anthropomorphic but nonetheless I liked it and hope you do as well

Here a female mate is injured and the condition is soon fatal.She was hit by a car as she swooped low across the road.



Here he brought her food and attended to her with love and compassion.


He brought her food again but was shocked to find her dead.




He tried to move her ... a rarely-seen effort for swallows! Aware that his sweetheart is dead and will never come back to him again, He cries with adoring love.



He stood beside her, saddened by her death.



Finally aware she would never return to him, he stood beside her body with sadness and sorrow.




Millions of people cried after seeing these photos in America, Europe, Australia, and even India. The photographer sold these pictures for a nominal fee to the most famous newspaper in France. All copies of that edition were sold out on the day these pictures were published.

And many people think animals don't have brains or feelings? You have just witnessed Love and Sorrow felt by God's creatures. The Bible says God knows when a sparrow falls & how much more He cares for us. Matthew 10:29 & 6:26

We WILL remember them!

The average British soldier is 19 years old…..he is a short haired, well built lad who, under normal circumstances is considered by society as half man, half boy. Not yet dry behind the ears and just old enough to buy a round of drinks but old enough to die for his country – and for you and for me. He’s not particularly keen on hard work but he’d rather be grafting in Afghanistan than unemployed in the UK . He recently left comprehensive school where he was probably an average student, played some form of sport, drove a ten year old rust bucket, and knew a girl that either broke up with him when he left, or swore to be waiting when he returns home. He moves easily to rock and roll or hip-hop or to the rattle of a 7.62mm machine gun.

He is about a stone lighter than when he left home because he is working or fighting from dawn to dusk and well beyond. He has trouble spelling, so letter writing is a pain for him, but he can strip a rifle in 25 seconds and reassemble it in the dark. He can recite every detail of a machine gun or grenade launcher and use either effectively if he has to. He digs trenches and latrines without the aid of machines and can apply first aid like a professional paramedic. He can march until he is told to stop, or stay dead still until he is told to move.

He obeys orders instantly and without hesitation but he is not without a rebellious spirit or a sense of personal dignity. He is confidently self-sufficient. He has two sets of uniform with him: he washes one and wears the other. He keeps his water bottle full and his feet dry. He sometimes forgets to brush his teeth, but never forgets to clean his rifle. He can cook his own meals, mend his own clothes and fix his own hurts. If you are thirsty, he'll share his water with you; if you are hungry, his food is your food. He'll even share his life-saving ammunition with you in the heat of a firefight if you run low.

He has learned to use his hands like weapons and regards his weapon as an extension of his own hands. He can save your life or he can take it, because that is his job - it's what a soldier does. He often works twice as long and hard as a civilian, draw half the pay and have nowhere to spend it, and can still find black ironic humour in it all. There's an old saying in the British Army: 'If you can't take a joke, you shouldn't have joined!'



He has seen more suffering and death than he should have in his short lifetime. He has wept in public and in private, for friends who have fallen in combat and he is unashamed to show it or admit it. He feels every bugle note of the 'Last Post' or 'Sunset' vibrate through his body while standing rigidly to attention. He's not afraid to 'Bollock' anyone who shows disrespect when the Regimental Colours are on display or the National Anthem is played; yet in an odd twist, he would defend anyone's right to be an individual. Just as with generations of young people before him, he is paying the price for our freedom. Clean shaven and baby faced he may be, but be prepared to defend yourself if you treat him like a kid.

He is the latest in a long thin line of British Fighting Men that have kept this country free for hundreds of years. He asks for nothing from us except our respect, friendship and understanding. We may not like what he does, but sometimes he doesn't like it either - he just has it to do.. Remember him always, for he has earned our respect and admiration with his blood.

And now we even have brave young women putting themselves in harm's way, doing their part in this tradition of going to war when our nation's politicians call on us to do so.

Police Officers march for Royal Marines' charity

British Royal Marines turned cops are digging out their marching boots for charity.

More than 80 officers from around the UK are joining forces under the banner of Commando Cops to perform a half-marathon speed-march.

Nearly a third of the ex Royal Marines taking part are officers from my former force namely the Devon & Cornwall Constabulary.

The Royal Marine Association hopes to raise enough funds to send 62 Royal Marines, all of whom have suffered life-changing injuries, to the 2010 Winter Paralympics and the 2012 London Paralympics.

Originally setting a target of £40,000, the Commando Cops have already raised £60,000 with a significant proportion of the sum raised by two local officers from Devon. Detective Chief Inspector Ken Lamont and Detective Constable Peter Boorn have already raised over £6,000 between them.

Det. Chief Inspector Lamont said; "Support has been fantastic. The generosity of colleagues and local people from Devon has made us proud."

The speed-march will take place in Central London on Saturday, November 7th, the day before Remembrance Sunday.

If you would like to donate please visit; www.bmycharity.com/commandocops
and sponsor any officer's name you may choose from the list provided.

Police win data deletion appeal

My thanks to my former colleague Andy Pierce for drawing my attention to this news report and I must say that I wholeheartedly agree with his sentiments as follows; A sensible decision by the Court of Appeal which must leave some like me, who constantly and consistenly argued the toss with the Data Protection / Freedom of Information lobby, feeling quite smug.

The rules state information must be relevant, up to date and not excessive
Five police forces which challenged a ruling that they should delete records on criminal convictions from their database have won their appeal.

The court of appeal said convictions, however old and however minor, can be of value in the fight against crime.

The court said that as a result the retention of that information should not be denied to the police.

The forces said if they had lost, they may have been forced to delete details of as many as one million people.

The police added if the original ruling had been upheld, the result would have been a "liars' charter" - where people would be able to deny criminal convictions on job applications if they knew the deletion deadline had passed.

'However old or minor'

Three judges ruled that retaining information was far easier to justify than actually disclosing the information to others.

"If the police say rationally and reasonably that convictions, however old or minor, have a value in the work that they do, that should, in effect, be the end of the matter," said Lord Justice Waller, sitting with Lord Justices Carnwath and Hughes.

The appeal was made by the chief constables of the Humberside, Staffordshire, Northumbria, West Midlands and Greater Manchester forces.


"This data assists police officers in their work in preventing crime and protecting the public" Quote from ACPO (Association of Chief Police Officers.

The five convicted people who had contested the case were refused permission to appeal to the Supreme Court.

The Association of Chief Police Officers (Acpo) welcomed the ruling, adding that "the ramifications of losing the appeal were potentially huge".

Ian Readhead, Acpo director of information, told the BBC: "This data assists police officers in their work in preventing crime and protecting the public and the loss of such valuable information would have been detrimental to that.

"Although principally used for police purposes, these records are also critical to the courts, the Criminal Records Bureau, the Independent Safeguarding Agency, the Crown Prosecution Service and the Home Office, who all supported this appeal."

But Anna Fairclough, a lawyer for the civil rights group Liberty, said the judgement "forgets the privacy rights of millions of people".

She said: "Exceptions to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act and the net of employment vetting are being cast so wide that people will be forever haunted by the minor indiscretions of their youth.

"We need a tighter rein on the circumstances when spent convictions can be disclosed."

Held for 100 years

The original ruling came about after five people complained to the information commissioner because their criminal records showed up when they applied for jobs.

One of the cases was a record held by Humberside Police about the theft of a 99p packet of meat in 1984. The person involved, who was under 18 at the time, was fined £15.

Another, held by West Midlands Police, referred to a theft which took place more than 25 years ago, for which the individual was fined £25.

And a third, held by Staffordshire Police, related to someone under 14 who was cautioned for a minor assault.

Under current policy, criminal records remain on the police national computer for up to 100 years.

Information courtesy of http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/8314032.stm

Lloyd Gardner - A remarkable young man from Devon

A good Samaritan given a £10,000 reward for helping catch a brutal rapist has handed all the money to the stunned victim.

Big-hearted Lloyd Gardner, 22, said the woman had far more need of the cash as she was left crippled by the savage attack.

The 48-year-old, who can not be named, was left for dead, unconscious and naked, in the centre of Exeter, Devon, and still uses a wheelchair over three years later.

Lloyd, a restaurant manager, gave cops vital information which helped them track down sex beast Jakub Tomczak to Poland.

The 24-year-old fugitive monster was arrested and brought back to the UK and given two life sentences in January 2008.

Lloyd responded to a TV appeal over the attack when he recognised two Polish girls spotted on CCTV with Tomczak.

He had worked with them before they returned to Poland but he told detectives where they came from and they led officers to the rapist in Poznan.

Modest Lloyd told police he wanted the victim to have all the money and said: "I didn't feel like I'd earned it.

"The fact that such a horrific thing happened to that lady, I thought it would benefit her life more than it would mine.

"I just wanted to try and improve her standard of life.

"It's a huge amount of money but I've been lucky throughout my life - she nearly died and was left in a horrendous state after the attack.

"I thought the money would go a lot further to improve her situation. I just wanted to help in any way possible and I hope this has done that."

Lloyd, of Ottery St. Mary, Devon, added: "I thought what I told police was quite minor at the time but they told me it was what they needed and had been a vital part of the case."

Lloyd has now been chosen by police in Ottery St. Mary to officially open their new station next week.

Local Sergeant Nick Harper said: "Lloyd's act of kindness was unbelievable. He is an outstanding member of the community."

Tomczak was working as a hotel night porter when he struck and left his badly injured victim under a van.

He was brought back to the UK under a European arrest warrant and convicted on DNA evidence which matched his semen with samples found at the scene.

He told the court: "I do not know the truth of what happened to her."

He was given two life sentences for rape and grievous bodily harm, to run concurrently, and was sent back to Poland to serve them.

Story courtesy of www.policeoracle.com

Dr. Kent Holtorf - Fox News "Tracking H1N1" (Swine Flu)

Dr. Kent Holtorf talks with Fox News about the symptoms and treatment of H1N1 (Swine Flu). He is an expert on infectious diseases and his views on the new vaccine coming to the market in October are very alarming to say the least.

I am aware that other medical experts disagree with him but who are we to believe? I am in an "at risk" group being a heart patient, so I am confused as to what to do if or when I am offered this vaccination by my medical surgery. Annually, I receive the normal winter flu jab and have never suffered any ill effects but this is an additional vaccination with questionable trial research.

Your considered views and informed opinions would be most welcome.

Police Apprenticeship Scheme

Seven young people have been awarded qualifications through an apprenticeship scheme run by Avon and Somerset Constabulary, many of whom have joined the force as full time employees.

The apprentices completed the business administration level 2 apprenticeship scheme, which has been giving young people the opportunity to earn while they learn for over 10 years. The apprentices have now attained a National Vocational Qualification (NVQ).

Jake Lambert, 17, who completed a 12 month placement in the Criminal Justice Unit, in addition to his NVQ was also recognised for his outstanding contribution and dedication with an award for 'Apprentice of the Year.' He has accepted a full time position with the force as a clerical officer.

Two others received certificates for successfully completing their second year apprenticeship for light vehicle technicians. They will go on to complete the remainder of their course in Cabot Park in Avonmouth, where they will continue to service, maintain and repair police vehicles.

Assistant Chief Constable Rod Hansen, who presented the awards, said: "Apprenticeships are hugely important for young people, as they offer them the chance to benefit from salaried employment with sector-specific training. These bright young individuals are our workforce of the future and we are very pleased to celebrate their achievements.

"The apprenticeship scheme is a way for us to support the local community and economy, as well as giving us the opportunity to interact with the young people of today – something which is vitally important for an organisation such as ours."

The business administration apprentices completed placements in various departments across Avon and Somerset Constabulary including; Bath and Yeovil Police Stations, the Criminal Justice Unit, Legal Services Department and in the Administration Department at the Force's Headquarters in Portishead.

Many have subsequently been offered permanent positions including Sophie, 20, who has joined the Force as a National Criminal Records Bureau Research Officer and also volunteers her time as a Special Constable.

Sophie said: "I'm very excited and proud to join Avon and Somerset Police as a full time employee. It's been a fantastic year and not only have I gained a qualification but also now secured a really excellent job. My career aspiration is to stay within the force and maybe one day apply to be a full time police officer."

Another apprentice has gained employment as PA to Head of Communications and a further one has joined the HR communications team as an administration assistant.

Vicky Evans, Human Resources Planning Manager for Avon and Somerset Police, said: "The apprenticeship schemes have been such a success that we are looking to expand our apprenticeship programme. In such a tough economic climate we are really pleased to be able to help young people gain the skills they need to enter employment, and also earn at the same time.

For further information about Avon and Somerset Constabulary's apprenticeship scheme contact Rose Tucker, Senior HR Planning Officer, on 01275 816542

Supplied courtesy of www.policeoracle.com

Why we are in Afghanistan

Below is a copy of an e-mail circulating to members of the Conservative Party from the Leader of the Party, the Rt.Hon. David Cameron, M.P. I believe his sentiments are entirely correct.

This week was the seventieth anniversary of the outbreak of the Second World War. It's a time to remember all those who fought, died and sacrificed for Britain. But it's a time, too, to remember the lessons.

Some of those lessons apply in Afghanistan today. We're fighting a ferocious war and after eight years there still seems to be no end in sight. Our troops lack vital equipment, especially helicopters. Many people want Ministers to explain more clearly what our troops are fighting for. And that anxiety is now really affecting the Government, with the resignation of an aide to the Defence Secretary. It's clear we cannot go on as we are.

We need to make it clear to the British people why we're in Afghanistan. It's simple - to stop terrorism here in Britain. We must help the Afghans to stop their country from once again hosting the world's most dangerous terrorists. So we need to train and equip the Afghan army to root out terrorists, and to support them until they can do this for themselves.

We must make sure our soldiers have the tools they need - more counter-IED capability, more helicopters, more surveillance drones, more heavily armoured vehicles, and more transport aircraft. We must support their families here in Britain, and give every assistance to the injured.

And to do all these things we need one thing more than anything else - leadership. That's something that's been desperately lacking. We've had four defence secretaries in as many years; the last one was part-time and the current one ranks 21st out of 23 in the Cabinet. That's not a great starting point when we're fighting a conflict thousands of miles away. This is a new kind of war, it's a necessary war, and we need strong leadership and relentless focus to explain that to people in Britain.

The lessons of 1939 show that Britain can turn things around in war. Six years of effort later, we won the war. I'm confident we can see success in Afghanistan. I've been out there and seen what a tremendous job our servicemen and women do. It's time they got the right kind of support from the Government at home.

Signed: David Cameron

The Bear - Film by Jean-Jacques Annaud

"The Bear" is an unusually involving film about animals that will give you a fresh perspective on their world. I found this film totally captivating and recommend you take a few moments to view it. It will be well worth the time. The cougar versus the bear!"

Special thanks to my friend Dean Eddy for drawing this amazing video clip to my attention. It has been viewed by over 10.5 million internet users worldwide.

A return to the bad old days?

Police and football club officials are scanning CCTV footage to idenitfy those responsible for mass violence which broke out between rival fans during Tuesday night's Carling Cup match between West Ham and Milwall, resulting in a man being stabbed in the chest.

There were running battles before and after the match at Upton Park and the game was held up when home supporters invaded the pitch after West Ham took the lead in extra time.

At least 10 people were arrested as bitter rivalry between rival supporters erupted into what police described as "large-scale" violence before game in east London.

A man was stabbed in the chest and two others taken to hospital following clashes between hundreds of rival football supporters in east London.

The 44-year-old man was stabbed in Priory Road, just yards from West Ham's ground, before the game. He was said by police to be in a stable condition last night. The other two were last night being treated in hospital for non-lifethreatening injuries. One man was found in Rancliffe Road suffering head injuries, while another was taken to hospital following an alleged assault at a pub in Green Street.

Onlookers described how bricks and bottles were lobbed as hundreds of supporters rioted.

And inside the ground fans fought with police and stewards and play was suspended when scores of supporters invaded the pitch.

A Metropolitan Police spokeswoman said officers were now scanning CCTV footage to identify those behind the clashes."We will be reviewing all the events, looking at CCTV both inside and outside the ground to identify offences and offenders."

The Football Association said last night it would investigate the violence and said anyone involved would be banned from football for life.

A spokesman said: "We absolutely condemn all of the disorder that has occurred at Upton Park both inside and outside of the ground.

"We will be working with all parties, including the police and clubs, to establish the facts surrounding (last night's) events.

"We strongly expect all culprits to be banned from football for life. They have no place in our game."

West Ham boss Gianfranco Zola said the scenes were unlike anything he had seen before. "I've been involved in difficult games and things happened. Here, I've played seven years and I've never seen it like this.

"It's certainly not good for football. I was completely shocked. Totally.

"I knew it was a game that meant a lot for the two sets of supporters, but I didn't imagine it like this."

Millwall boss Kenny Jackett added: "I wasn't aware of the stabbing outside the ground. I'm very sad to hear that.

"We've got a passionate game in this country, but when it oversteps the mark then things have to be done."

The fighting started shortly after 6pm as thousands of fans made their way to the ground. One West Ham fan who went to the match said the District Line underground train from Barking stopped just before Upton Park at 7.20pm and did not move for around 15 minutes. "Tempers flared on board as kick-off approached, people tried breaking open the doors," he said. The atmosphere was tense in surrounding streets, the police helicopter was up and riot police were everywhere."

The fan said he saw about 30 police with shields and batons "storm" towards the nearby Boleyn pub.

A 29-year-old man, who runs a kebab shop in Green Street said: "All hell broke loose, it was very frightening. It's not every day you see stuff like that."

National Police Memorial Day

Sunday 27th September 2009 marks the sixth National Police Memorial Day, an annual event that honours police officers throughout the United Kingdom who have given their lives in the line of duty.

National Police Memorial Day is designed to remember every officer killed on duty since modern policing began more than 175 years ago and aims to recognise the courage and dedication shown by all police officers across the UK every day.

As with the previous five years, the Police Federation of England and Wales is working in partnership with the Home Offices and other police associations across the UK to ensure the day is memorable for everyone attending particularly the widows, family and friends of fallen officers.

Paul McKeever, Chairman, Police Federation of England and Wales says,

“this day is a way for the nation to recognise the best of all human qualities – selfless and devoted courage – and the example and valour of those officers who died on duty acts as an inspiration to us all."

I will be particularly remembering a fellow officer from my Police Force, the late Police Constable Dennis Smith of the Devon & Cornwall Constabulary, who was murdered on duty at Torquay several years ago now by a crazed gunman who went on the rampage in the town killing several people.

Details of formal events marking National Police Memorial Day will be posted on this blog as they become known to me.

Congratulations to Stephen Wray - my music maestro!

Steve Wray is the 23 year old son of a lifelong friend of mine who lives in Pennsylvania, USA. He has a keen interest in acoustic guitars and recently entered an Accent Music Guitar Solo Contest in Wilmington, Newark, and won second place. His father said in an e-mail to me;

My son Stephen won 2nd prize in a lead guitar contest at Accent Music, where he takes lessons. (a $50.00 gift card) Here is the link to his performance. He had to choose from 8 tracks the song he wanted to play lead to. Then he had to improvise the lead. He got the track list on Wednesday and the contest was Saturday. He did a great job and I am very proud of him.



I too am proud of you Steve. Your father's influence has clearly rubbed off on you! The next time your family put on a Hootenanny may be I shall be there to congratulate you in person. Mark Winfree eat your heart out. You now have serious competition from a true professional to contend with! Well done Steve and keep up the good work.

I want my England!

ENGLAND I think this really sums it all up.

After hearing that many cities did not want to offend other cultures by putting up Christmas lights, so DIDN'T!

After learning that the British Red Cross shops were instructed not to display Christmas decorations lest they cause offence. (A move which cost them my support thereafter.)

After hearing that the Birmingham council changed its opinion and let a Muslim woman have her picture on her driver's licence with her face covered. You try it!

After hearing of a Primary School in Birmingham where a boy was told that for PE they could wear Football League shirts (Aston Villa, Birmingham, West Brom etc) but NOT an England shirt as it could offend others !

This prompted the editorial below written by a UK citizen,and published in a British newspaper.

IMMIGRANTS. NOT BRITONS, MUST ADAPT

Take it or leave it. I am tired of this nation worrying about whether we are offending some individual or their culture. Since the terrorist attacks on London , we have experienced a surge in patriotism by the majority of Brits.

However, the dust from the attacks has barely settled and the 'politically correct' crowd begin complaining about the possibility that our patriotism is offending others.

I am not against immigration, nor do I hold a grudge against anyone who is seeking a better life by coming to Britain . However, there are a few things that those who have recently come to our country, and apparently some born here, need to understand.

This idea of England being a multicultural centre for community has served only to dilute our sovereignty and our national identity. As Britons, we have our own culture, our own society, our own language and our own lifestyle. This culture has been developed over centuries of wars, struggles, trials and victories fought by the untold masses of men and women who laid down their lives and of the millions of men and women who have sought freedom.

We speak ENGLISH, not Spanish, Lebanese, Arabic, Chinese, Japanese, Russian, or any other language. Therefore, if you wish to become part of our society, learn the language!

If God offends you, then I suggest you consider another part of the world as your new home, because God is part of our culture. If St.George's cross offends you, then you should seriously consider a move to another part of this planet.

We are happy with our culture and have no desire to change, and we really don't care how you did things where you came from. This is OUR COUNTRY, OUR LAND, and OUR LIFESTYLE, and we will allow you every opportunity to enjoy all this.

But once you are done complaining, whining, and griping about Our Flag, Our Pledge, Our National Motto, or Our Way of Life, I encourage you take advantage of one other great British freedom, 'THE RIGHT TO LEAVE'.

We didn't force you to come here. If you don't like it GO HOME!!

You asked to be here.. So accept the country that accepted YOU. Pretty easy really, when you think about it.

First it was politicians now it's policemen - Abuse of expense claims. Who will be next?

Scotland Yard chiefs have agreed a secret amnesty for more than 1,000 officers and staff who misused corporate credit cards, it has been revealed.

An internal audit discovered 1,183 Metropolitan Police employees broke rules governing the use of American Express charge cards.

Senior officers were so overwhelmed by the number of cases they decided the card holders would not be punished - deciding instead that the staff, the vast majority of whom worked in counter terrorism and other specialist crime inquiries, would be given "training and guidance".

More than 300 people were initially referred to anti-corruption detectives when evidence emerged their claims were potentially fraudulent.

Of these cases, 50 were passed to independent investigators. Three officers have since been convicted of criminal offences and two more await trial.

Jenny Jones, of the Metropolitan Police Authority, said training and guidance is "not enough" and some disciplinary action should be taken. She said: "I find it unacceptable that the police have just let these officers go with guidance. They must have known what they were doing was wrong."

Members of the MPA, the force watchdog, have been told privately how an initial sift of accounts exposed the scale of the problem.

Internal auditors decided 1,183 people who used a card, but did not break the law, should be put to one side and labelled "category B". These cases included those who purchased personal items and later repaid the money or bought equipment that should have been purchased by other means.

Meanwhile, claims found to be "potentially unacceptable", including cases of suspected fraud, were labelled "category A" and passed to anti-corruption detectives. Inquiries into abuse of the credit card system by officers are expected to continue until next March, two and a half years after they first began.

A total of 3,533 officers and staff were issued with the cards and at one point £3.7 million of public money was unaccounted for. The majority of this money has been paid back, but legal action is expected against two officers who owe £82,000 and £1,100.

Puritanical, pragmatic, proselytizing pratt!?

I have just been paid the biggest compliment of my blogosphere experience! Robert "Bob" Mercer of South Australia has been moved to post the below item on his blog with the title has shown above. I have been called some names in my time but nothing as interesting as this! I believe he expected me to censor his link but, on the contrary, I was pleased to publish it within my comments section. I have never had a full posting devoted to me on any blog so far! It resulted in greatly increased traffic to my site. I rarely reach a hundred hits per week but already I have received 144 visits and there is still tomorrow to go before I receive my weekly update. Thanks very much Bob! This is what he wrote;

Came across a blog which I found interesting particularly the page ….link http://old-plod-of-plympton.blogspot.com/2009/08/this-man-would-get-my-vote.html More people like this mayor are needed not only in the UK but also in Australia…….please!

Unfortunately whilst some of the articles were interesting the “discussion” options were somewhat limited by the somewhat puritanical attitude of the “Old Plod” the ex-policeman who owns the blog. His profile includes the statement

” I consider myself to be a pragmatic and deeply spiritual person. I will endeavour to avoid unnecessary censorship on this Blog. However; I will not accept any xenophobic, homophobic, racist, sexist or indeed any other form of extreme bigotry within comments posted on this blog. Measures to prevent postings of this nature are in place.”

Well, what a puritanical, pragmatic pratt! His listing is in itself a form of bigotry, since the word means intolerance or narrow-mindedness. Perhaps as an ex-plod he has become mired in the upper echelon bigotry that exists within the police forces of the world. One can be xenophobic, racist, sexist etc., without being a bigot! [I do not include the non-word "homophobic" since it is the most stupid meaningless concoction ever. A mishmash of homo meaning "the same" and phobia meaning "fear" hence a fear of the same!? Rubbish!]. Perhaps his spirituality is obtained from a bottle of sorts. However, that being said, how come he allowed the article to which I referred originally, namely “This man would get my vote” since it is definitely anti-pervert [I refuse to use the word "gay" and say it as it is!] and is surely xenophobic since he is advocating telling the EU where to stick it!

If he is so sensitive [and after 33 professed years as a copper I doubt that] and becomes lachrymose when people post such anti-pervert or xenophobic comments, has he never heard of censoring comments? If he so desired he could edit or delete what he deems “unsuitable” wording.

He does have a suggestion to link to his blog or any particular page but……………somehow I don’t think my link would be too welcome!

If you would like to view Bob Mercer's blog and leave him a comment in defence of me or support of him here is the address;

http://rhmercer.com/blog/?p=398

I feel we could develop an interesting debate here. LOL! I warn you though he has some pretty strong views on many subjects. I shall certainly be paying him a few return visits in the future! G'day Bob!!!!!

A Pastor with great courage!

This took courage (although it shouldn't have) It is absolutely great ! ! !There might be hope yet!

A Pastor with GUTS!
I thought you might enjoy reading this interesting prayer given in Kansas at the opening session of their Senate. It seems prayer still upsets some people.. When Minister Joe Wright was asked to open the new session of the Kansas Senate, everyone was expecting the usual generalities, but this is what they heard:

Heavenly Father, we come before you today to ask
Your forgiveness and to seek your direction and
Guidance. We know Your Word says, 'Woe to those
Who call evil good,' but that is exactly what we
Have done.

We have lost our spiritual equilibrium and reversed
Our values.

We have exploited the poor and called it
The lottery.

We have rewarded laziness and called it
Welfare.

We have killed our unborn and called it
Choice.

We have shot abortionists and called it
Justifiable.

We have neglected to discipline our
Children and called it building self esteem..

We have abused power and called it
Politics.

We have coveted our neighbour's possessions
And called it ambition.

We have polluted the air with profanity and
pornography and called it freedom of expression.

We have ridiculed the time-honoured values
Of our forefathers and called it enlightenment.

Search us, Oh, God, and know our hearts
Today; cleanse us from every sin and set us free.
Amen!
The response was immediate.A number of Legislators walked out during the prayer in protest.In 6 short weeks, Central Christian Church,where Rev. Wright is pastor, logged more than 5,000 phone calls with only 47 of those calls responding negatively. The church is now receiving international requests for copies of this prayer from India , Africa and Korea.

Commentator Paul Harvey aired this prayer on his radio programme, 'The Rest of the Story,'and received a larger response to this programme than any other he has ever aired.

With the Lord's help, may this prayer sweep over our nation and wholeheartedly become our desire so that we again can be called 'one nation under God.'

My thanks to Mr.Brian Eastwood for sharing this with me.

This man would get my vote!

I LIKE THE SOUND OF THIS MAN
A maverick mayor elected after promising to slash council spending, clear the streets of yobs and ditch politically correct services is the torchbearer for how towns should be run.

On his first morning as Mayor of Doncaster in South Yorkshire , Peter Davies cut his salary from £73,000 to £30,000 then closed the council’s newspaper for "peddling politics on the rates".
Now three weeks into his job, Mr Davies is pressing ahead with plans he hopes will see the number of town councillors cut from 63 to just 21, saving taxpayers £800,000.
Mr Davies said: "If 100 senators can run the United States of America , I can’t see how 63 councillors are needed to run Doncaster ".

He has withdrawn Doncaster from the Local Government Association and the Local Government Information Unit, saving another £200,000. Mr Davies said, "They are just talking shops".
" Doncaster is in for some serious untwinning. We are twinned with nine other cities around the world and they are just for people to fly off and have a binge at the council’s expense".

The mayor’s chauffeur-driven car has also been axed by Mr Davies and the driver given another job. Mr Davies, born and bred in Doncaster, swept to power in the May election with 24,244 votes as a candidate for the English Democrats, a party that wants tight immigration curbs, an English Parliament and a law forcing every public building to fly the flag of St. George.

He has promised to end council funding for Doncaster ’s International Women’s Day, Black History Month and the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender History Month.
He said, "Politicians have got completely out of touch with what people want.
"We need to cut costs. I want to pass on some savings I make in reduced taxes and use the rest for things we really need, like improved children’s services".
Mr Davies has received messages from well wishers across the country and abroad as news of his no-nonsense approach spreads.
Now it’s your chance to spread this most sensible way to run a town council.

Do not eat chicken sandwiches!

Don't Eat Chicken Sandwiches no matter What.......................

A little boy and a little girl attended the same school and became friends.
Every day they would sit together to eat their lunch. They discovered that they both brought chicken sandwiches every day! This went on all through the fourth and fifth grades, until one day he noticed that her sandwich wasn't a chicken sandwich. He said, 'Hey, how come you're not eating chicken, don't you like it anymore?' She said 'I love it but I have to stop eating it.'

'Why?' he asked. She pointed to her lap and said 'Cause I'm starting to grow little feathers down there!' 'Let me see' he said. 'Okay' and she pulled up her skirt. He looked and said, 'That's right. You are! Better not eat any more chicken.' He kept eating his chicken sandwiches until one day he brought peanut butter. He said to the little girl, 'I have to stop eating chicken sandwiches, I'm starting to get feathers down there too!' She asked if she could look, so he pulled down his pants for her! She said

'Oh, my God, it's too late for you! You've already got the NECK and GIBBLETS!!!

My thanks to Ruth for sharing this little gem with me. I am surprised at you naughty lady!!!!!!LOL !!!!

Wisdom of a Retiree

I've often been asked, 'What do you old folks do now that you're retired? Well, I'm fortunate to have a chemical engineering background, and one of the things I enjoy most is turning beer, wine, Scotch, and margaritas into urine!

What more can I say!

My thanks to Jim Doney for sharing this gem with me.

Marketing the Church

A must-see television advertisement chronicling the significance of the Catholic Church now and throughout history. http://CatholicsComeHome.org

I am grateful to Thom Curnutte of Anglican Wanderings for drawing my attention to this advert. ...but what do you think about Christian "marketing?" Positive or negative? Necessary or wasteful? Your views would be appreciated.

PS. I am disappointed to learn that the Anglican Wanderings blog has come to an end. It has been of enormous interest to me and has taught me a great deal about many aspects of my Anglo-Catholic faith. I have, for a very long time, carried a link to Anglican Wanderings in my list of Favourite Blogs to the left of this posting. I started following it soon after Rev'd Andrew Teather first launched the site. I shall miss the postings but wish Andrew, Fr. Lee Kenyon and Thom Curnette every good wish for the future and I hope to see them blogging again sometime in the future. Many congratulations on a job well done. Your Online ministry has been greatly appreciated. Come back soon!

Theodore Roosevelt 1907

The year is 1907, one hundred and 2 years ago.

Theodore Roosevelt's ideas on Immigrants and being an AMERICAN in 1907.

'In the first place, we should insist that if the immigrant who comes here in good faith becomes an American and assimilates himself to us, he shall be treated on an exact equality with everyone else, for it is an outrage to discriminate against any such man because of creed, or birthplace, or origin. But this is predicated upon the person's becoming in every facet an American, and nothing but an American...There can be no divided allegiance here. Any man who says he is an American, but something else also, isn't an American at all. We have room for but one flag, the American flag... We have room for but one language here, and that is the English language.. And we have room for but one sole loyalty and that is a loyalty to the American people.'

Theodore Roosevelt 1907

Every American citizen needs to read this! As the underlying message equally applies to Great Britian today so should every Brit read it!

My thanks to my friend Mark Winfree of Pennsylvania for sharing this photograph and message with me.

Pearls of the Aegean

THOMSON CELEBRATION
Captain's Reception 27th June, 2009
Captain Roy Dearman

Having just returned from a wonderful cruise aboard the Thomson Celebration around the Greek Islands I am about to return to my regular blogging pattern. In case you may be interested I will tell you of some of the interesting places we visited on the cruise.

Having flown to Corfu to join the ship we sailed to Crete and visited Knossos, the most impressive and best known palace of the Minoan civilization. Famous from Greek Mythology as the capital of the Minoan culture, Knossos is inextricably linked to many thrilling myths and legends like the 'Labyrinth of the Minotaur'.

We sailed overnight to Kusadasi in Turkey and enjoyed a visit to Ephesus and The House of Mary. Leaving the port behind we headed up into the hills to the house of The Blessed Virgin Mary, recognised by the Vatican as a place of pilgrimage. The small chapel has been built on the foundations of a humble dwelling where Mary's believed to have spent her last days. One does not have to be religious to appreciate this very serene setting. From there we travelled to the world famous archaeological site of Ephesus for a walking tour of such wonderful sights as the Temple of Hadrian, the Marble Streets and Celsus Library. I could not help but cast my mind back to the days when St. Paul lived here for three years and told the Ephesians the good news of the Messiah, Jesus Christ. No less than 3,000 people received the good news and it is widely accepted by theological scholars that this was the place from where the Christian religion spread to Greece, Europe and the rest of the world.

We then sailed overnight to Santorini and visited the beautiful village of Oia which reminded us of the setting for the film Mama Mia although,of course, it was on a different island. We saw the cave homes once occupied by the original inhabitants. The village is perched on a cliff top and afforded breathtaking views over the caldera. On the return journey we visited a winery and spent some free time in Thira town before taking the cable car back to the ship's tenders on the harbour side.

Next we sailed to Piraeus, Greece where we took an excursion to the captivating city of Athens passing some of the main sights including Constitution Square, the Houses of Parliament, the Neoclassical-style university buildings, the Royal Palace and the Old Olympic Stadium of Athens. However, the real highlight of this tour was when we arrived at the foot of the magnificent Acropolis, one of the most famous and photographed ancient monuments in the world. After a steep climb in scorching temperatures we finally came upon the ancient temples of Athena Nike and the towering Parthenon. Again breathtaking views over the city of Athens down below.

Sailing on we arrived at the island of Katakolon where we experienced a visit to the famous site of Olympia, one of the most important sanctuaries of antiquity, dedicated to the father of the Olympian Zeus and birth-place of the Olympic Games. The sanctuary of Olympia spreads around the green wooded feet of the Kronion Hill, where the rivers Alpheios and Cladeos meet. We learned a lot of interesting facts about about Ancient Greece and the Games. After this we visited the Archaeological Museum, which is one of the most important of its kind in Greece and hosts an impressive collection of artefact's and treasures from its past.

The last day saw us return to Corfu still with time to spare before our flight home. We used this time to include yet another excursion visiting some of the most spectacular places in the north of the island. First we called at the island's Greek Byzantine Monastery set in fragrant gardens and still in use to this day. Following this we arrived at Paleokastritsa, a quiet resort nestled in a beautiful bay where we took a boat ride to view various caves around the bay. After this we headed up to Bella Vista, the most famous viewpoint in Corfu, to capture some magical views overlooking Paleokastritsa and the island's west coast. We returned to the ship via the village of Makrades,the Troumbeta mountain passage and a string of traditional Greek villages.

Special thanks to Captain Roy Dearman, his officer's and crew for making it such a truly memorable holiday. The service on board was first class throughout the entire cruise and one felt one was staying at a 5 star floating hotel. Well done Thomson Holidays for all your attention to every little detail which all added up to a perfect holiday.

Pearls of Wisdom by the late George Carlin

GEORGE CARLIN (His wife died in recent years...and George followed her, dying July 2008)

Isn't it amazing that George Carlin - comedian of the 70's and 80's - could write something so very eloquent...and so very appropriate.

The paradox of our time in history is that we have taller buildings but shorter tempers, wider motorways, but narrower viewpoints. We spend more, but have less, we buy more, but enjoy less. We have bigger houses and smaller families, more conveniences, but less time. We have more degrees but less sense, more knowledge, but less judgment, more experts, yet more problems, more medicine, but less wellness.

We drink too much, smoke too much, spend too recklessly, laugh too little, drive too fast, get too angry, stay up too late, get up too tired, read too little, watch TV too much, and pray too seldom.

We have multiplied our possessions, but reduced our values. We talk too much, love too seldom, and hate too often..

We've learned how to make a living, but not a life. We've added years to life not life to years. We've been all the way to the moon and back, but have trouble crossing the street to meet a new neighbour. We conquered outer space but not inner space. We've done larger things, but not better things.

We've cleaned up the air, but polluted the soul. We've conquered the atom, but not our prejudice. We write more, but learn less. We plan more, but accomplish less. We've learned to rush, but not to wait. We build more computers to hold more information, to produce more copies than ever, but we communicate less and less.

These are the times of fast foods and slow digestion, big men and small character, steep profits and shallow relationships. These are the days of two incomes but more divorce, fancier houses, but broken homes. These are days of quick trips, disposable nappies, throwaway morality, one night stands, overweight bodies, and pills that do everything from cheer, to quiet, to kill. It is a time when there is much in the showroom window and nothing in the stockroom. A time when technology can bring this letter to you, and a time when you can choose either to share this insight, or to just to ignore it...

Remember; spend some time with your loved ones, because they are not going to be around forever.

Remember, say a kind word to someone who looks up to you in awe, because that little person soon will grow up and leave your side.

Remember, to give a warm hug to the one next to you, because that is the only treasure you can give with your heart and it doesn't cost a penny.

Remember, to say, ' I love you ' to your partner and your loved ones, but most of all mean it. A kiss and an embrace will mend hurt when it comes from deep inside of you.

Remember to hold hands and cherish the moment for someday that person will not be there again.

Give time to love, give time to speak! And give time to share the precious thoughts in your mind.

AND ALWAYS REMEMBER:

Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away.

George Carlin
My thanks to Brian Eastwood for sharing these wonderful words of wisdom with me. How true they are!

You are never too old to have fun!

In the Mayo Buildings somewhere in USA there is a piano that sometimes people stop to play. This is a cute video of two older folks playing the piano in the Gonda Building, and it is really worth watching. It made my day! Fran and Marlo Cowan (married 62 years) playing an impromptu recital together in the atrium of the Mayo Clinic. He was 90 in February. Make sure your speakers are turned on. Enjoy.

For more information about the Mayo Clinics visit www.mayoclinic.com

My gratitude to my friend Dean Eddy in California for sending me this video clip. Many thanks Dean.

The Right Honourable Members for Fraud Prevention?

Targeting Benefit Cheats !

Footnote: "It is better to put trust in the LORD than to put confidence in man"

Psalms 118: 8 (NKJV)

AN ITALIAN BOY'S CONFESSION

This could only happen with a little Italian kid…..
'Bless me Father, for I have sinned. I have been with a loose girl'.
The priest asks, 'Is that you, little Joey Pagano ?'
'Yes, Father, it is.'
'And who was the girl you were with?'
'I can't tell you, Father, I don't want to ruin her reputation'
Well, Joey, I'm sure to find out her name sooner or later so you may as well tell me now.
Was it Tina Minetti?'
'I cannot say.'
'Was it Teresa Mazzarelli?'
'I'll never tell.'
' Was it Nina Capelli?'
'I'm sorry, but I cannot name her.'
'Was it Cathy Piriano?'
'My lips are sealed.'
'Was it Rosa Di Angelo, then?'
'Please, Father, I cannot tell you.'

The priest sighs in frustration. 'You're very tight lipped, Joey Pagano, and I admire that. But you've sinned and have to atone. You cannot be an altar boy now for 4 months. Now you go and behave yourself.'

Joey walks back to his pew, and his friend Franco slides over and whispers, 'What'd you get?'

Joey replied,

"4 months vacation and five good leads!"

MUSLIM DEMOGRAPHICS-THE END OF EUROPE AS WE KNOW IT TODAY!

Islam will overwhelm Christendom unless Christians recognize the demographic realities, begin reproducing again, and share the gospel with Muslims.And you thought the banking crisis was a problem.Get your yashmaks out ladies ! Watch this YouTube videoclip for a serious wake up call to all Christians in Europe. Make sure your speakers are turned on.

I am grateful to Nicolas Krebs for posting his comments on this item. (Click on "Comments" below) Please view his references especially the one concerning the Abuse of Statistics.

The Cacti Clowns!

A good laugh is always nice. *Warning---if you are drinking coffee swallow it now*

CLASS PROJECT GONE WRONG

An elementary school class started a class project to make planters to take home to their parents.

They wanted to have a plant in it that was easy to take care of, so they decided to use cactus plants.

The students were given green-ware pottery planters in the shape of clowns which they painted with glaze.

The clown planters were professionally fired at a class outing so they could see the process.

It was great fun!

They planted cactus seeds in the finished planters and they grew nicely, but unfortunately, the children were not allowed to take them home.

The cactus plants were removed and small ivy replaced them and the children were then allowed to take them home instead.

The teacher said cactus seemed like a good idea at the time. Now scroll down !!!!!

May the rest of your day be the best of your
day!

A SHOCKING LOOK INSIDE CHINESE FUR FARMS

PETA is an animals rights organisation. PETA represents People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals

When undercover investigators made their way onto Chinese fur farms recently, they found that many animals are still alive and struggling desperately when workers flip them onto their backs or hang them up by their legs or tails to skin them. When workers on these farms begin to cut the skin and fur from an animal's leg, the free limbs kick and writhe. Workers stomp on the necks and heads of animals who struggle too hard to allow a clean cut.
When the fur is finally peeled off over the animals' heads, their naked, bloody bodies are thrown onto a pile of those who have gone before them. Some are still alive, breathing in ragged gasps and blinking slowly. Some of the animals' hearts are still beating five to 10 minutes after they are skinned. One investigator recorded a skinned raccoon dog on the heap of carcasses who had enough strength to lift his bloodied head and stare into the camera.

WARNING! THE VIDEO IS OF A HORRIFIC NATURE AND I RECOMMEND YOU ONLY WATCH IT IF YOU DOUBT THE TRUTH OF WHAT IS WRITTEN HEREIN. YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED.

Pledge to go fur-free at PETA.org.

Before they are skinned alive, animals are pulled from their cages and thrown to the ground; workers bludgeon them with metal rods or slam them on hard surfaces, causing broken bones and convulsions but not always immediate death. Animals watch helplessly as workers make their way down the row.

Undercover investigators from Swiss Animal Protection/EAST International recently toured fur farms in China's Hebei Province, and it quickly became clear why outsiders are banned from visiting. There are no regulations governing fur farms in China—farmers can house and slaughter animals however they see fit—meaning miserable lives and excruciating deaths. The investigators found horrors beyond their worst imaginings and concluded, "Conditions on Chinese fur farms make a mockery of the most elementary animal welfare standards. In their lives and their unspeakable deaths, these animals have been denied even the simplest acts of kindness."

On these farms, foxes, minks, rabbits, and other animals pace and shiver in outdoor wire cages, exposed to driving rain, freezing nights, and, at other times, scorching sun. Mother animals, who are driven crazy from rough handling and intense confinement and have nowhere to hide while giving birth, often kill their babies after delivering litters. Disease and injuries are widespread, and animals suffering from anxiety-induced psychosis chew on their own limbs and throw themselves repeatedly against the cage bars.

The globalization of the fur trade has made it impossible to know where fur products come from. Skins move through international auction houses and are purchased and distributed to manufacturers around the world, and finished goods are often exported. China supplies more than half of the finished fur garments imported for sale in the United States. Even if a fur garment's label says it was made in a European country, the animals were likely raised and slaughtered elsewhere—possibly on an unregulated Chinese fur farm.

Because a fur's origin can't be traced, anyone who wears any fur at all shares the blame for the horrific conditions on Chinese fur farms. The only way to prevent such unimaginable cruelty is never to wear any fur. Take PETA's pledge to be fur-free today!

Consumers everywhere need to know the truth about fur. When people learn that millions of innocent animals are beaten, boiled, hanged, and electrocuted for their fur every year ... when they learn that every fur coat, lining, trim, or fur cat toy represents the intense suffering of several dozen animals and when they learn that furriers intentionally mislabel fur as not taken from dogs and cats or as fake ... then every decent human being will want to go FUR-FREE.

You can make a donation to help in the fight against this cruel trade. Here is the web address of PETA.Org (copy & paste into your browser)

http://www.peta.org/feat/ChineseFurFarms/index.asp

Tell all your friends about these evil farmers and help bring pressure to force the Chinese government to take immediate action to outlaw such barbaric practices and -
NEVER WEAR FUR AGAIN !!!!!!!!!!