Someone asked this a while back: What is the difference between a democracy and a republic.

Here’s the most fundamental difference:

A Republic is government by law while a democracy is government by the majority rule.

A couple of websites explore the difference between the two terms in some detail:

http://www.lexrex.com/enlightened/AmericanIdeal/aspects/demrep.html

http://www.albatrus.org/english/goverment/govenrment/democracy%20versus%20repubblic.htm

Articles online on the subject:

http://www.capmag.com/article.asp?ID=3388

Tony Oller did a cover of “Apologive” by One Republic. Seriously, how has Tony Oller not been signed with a record label? He’s very talented. What do you think?

Hurrah for Europe and for publishers who don’t realise that in these internet-enabled days, even a magazine article in *gasp* a foreign language will be translated and spread all over the net in a matter of hours. Thanks to german magazine “PC Games” (PC Spielen?), the final two classes have been revealed for Bioware’s upcoming Star Wars MMO.

As Massively report in the previous link, Bioware did confirm that the Jedi Consular and Sith Inquisitor will complete the lineup. They have chosen to keep the numbers of classes small, and have stated that each class will have its own personal epic storyline.

So, what do we have on offer? I’m going to run down the list and make some assumptions about the styles of the storylines and what sort of role each class might play in combat. I am assuming a holy trinity based game, I love Dragon Age as if it was my own child, but Bioware’s strength is in storytelling and producing awesome gaming experiences, not in reinventing the rule book.

Republic

Trooper

“The fate of the galaxy rests upon ordinary men becoming extraordinary heroes. This is the path of the Republic Trooper.”

“The Knights of the Jedi Order have defended the Republic for generations, but they have not fought alone. A host of unsung heroes have marched at the Jedi’s side—common men courageous enough to enlist and face the same risks as their Jedi comrades despite not having access to the Jedi powers of protection.”

It sounds as though this storyline is all about how ordinary guys and gals in the Republic special forces become extraordinary heroes and end up fighting alongside Jedi and … err.. smugglers. The gear has a strong military flavour.

As far as their role in combat goes, the official site has this to say:

“A Trooper’s rifle is his best friend, and the military is constantly challenged to design faster, more powerful and more reliable blaster rifles every year. Wielding such rifles and wearing protective battle armor designed by the Republic’s top engineers, the Trooper will not hesitate to step right into the crossfire.”

Sounds like a mostly ranged class to me.

Smuggler

“Stacking up enemies as fast as they stack up credits, Smugglers only survive in this galaxy by being slick, sneaky and street-smart.”

“Experienced in flying under the radar, Smugglers are amazingly elusive. Yet when backed into a corner, they quickly become cunning and often deadly combatants.”

OK, so the smuggler is Han Solo. Since he was the coolest character in Star Wars, that’s not a bad thing, and it  gives a good indication of the sort of storylines to expect.

For the role in combat:

“Smugglers often rely on the element of surprise, using stealth and trickery to catch opponents off guard. Despite the sly tactics, they are more than capable of holding their own in a fair fight.”

So it’ll be roguish, probably with some tricks and traps, but the flavour text sounds as though they prefer pistols to melee.

Jedi Knight

“A source of inspiration to allies and intimidation to adversaries, the Jedi Knight’s presence is welcome in any confrontation.”

“With unwavering allegiance to the Republic and the light side of the Force, the Jedi Knight fights with valiant determination, wading into the thick of any battle to protect freedom and democracy and hold fast against those who oppose it.”

Wading into the thick of battle to protect X  and Y, and hold fast against Z screams tank to me.

The combat tactics section reads:

“Whether defending allies by deflecting a barrage of blaster-fire or charging in to challenge a Sith Lord, the Knight’s role is crucial in any conflict.”

Defending, charging in to challenge nasty Sith Lords … it’s a tank. I have no idea where the storyline might unfold for this one, but I’m thinking Knight at King Arthur’s Court for the style of story and moral dilemma.

Jedi Consular

Not one but TWO Jedi classes on each side. We don’t have much information about this class yet, but it is known to be a ranged heal/ CC type of support class.

Sith

The Sith classes  sound stronger than their Republic counterparts — maybe to encourage players to pick the side they haven’t seen so much about in the films.

Bounty Hunter

“In the bounty business, one’s name is everything, and with each mark a Bounty Hunter takes down, his reputation grows, as does his price.”

Well that pretty much sums up what I’d expect in the storyline.

“Tracking elusive targets across multiple star systems requires expertise, especially when the targets can be prominent, powerful, and often prepared for confrontation.”

“Bounty Hunters are renowned for their versatility on the battlefield and their ability to go toe-to-toe with force-users.”

“Whoever they must face, however, the Bounty Hunter comes armed with the most-advanced weaponry on the black market, packing heavy firepower but always keeping a variety of tricks and gadgets ready to go.”

It certainly sounds more flexible than the poor Trooper who only has her rifle to fall back on. The Bounty Hunter here sounds like a strong dps class with lots of tricks and gadgets up her sleeve.

Imperial Agent

“Agents of Imperial Intelligence track down and eliminate the Empire’s enemies—from intractable Republic senators to traitorous Imperial Moffs to bloodthirsty rebels with Republic ties.”

“Though there are few idealists in Imperial Intelligence, the art of professional perfection is held in deep reverence, and the Agent embodies the Imperial ideal in this respect.”

So you’re going to be Evil James Bond if you play one of these chaps.

“Though striking from a distance or from the shadows plays to the Agent’s strengths, a well-equipped operative is more than capable of evading his enemies when necessary or moving in close to quietly slide a blade between an opponent’s ribs.”

Again, the Agent sounds like a more flexible class than her Republic counterpart. They will be stealthers, with some ability for assassination, and also have ranged capabilities.

Sith Warrior

“Sith Warriors crush their opponents and stride toward their goals with dreadful determination, leaving ruin and annihilation in their wake.”

“A natural leader in any context, a Sith Warrior inspires both fear and undying loyalty into his followers and allies.”

It’s a tank.

“Protected by heavy armor and his powers of intimidation, the Warrior wades into the thick of the fight and unleashes pure hatred and fury to eliminate all who would stand against him.”

Huh, the Sith Warrior actually gets heavy armour. Well that screws up the plans for total world domination via robe.

Sith Inquisitor

The other newly revealed class, as with the Consular we don’t know a lot about this one yet. But it’s likely to fill a similar role.

Keeping down the Jedi numbers

So I think that all the Jedi are actually going to be support classes in this game. The Knight and Warrior will be tanking classes, and the Consular and Inquisitor will be support. The non-jedi will make up the bulk of dps and stealthers.

You have to admit, that’s quite a smart way to keep the numbers of Jedi limited …

]]> http://victory1project.wordpress.com/2009/11/25/americas-new-direction-thanksgiving-special/ Wed, 25 Nov 2009 21:31:51 +0000 victory1project http://victory1project.wordpress.com/2009/11/25/americas-new-direction-thanksgiving-special/

Detective Krum

I decided to post something refreshing – a look at America’s direction through time.  The John Birch Society has developed a short video that describes America’s direction.  What makes this video unique is the way history is recorded and how you see America.

Is America turning to Socialism?  Are we really a Democracy? Why is our nation a Republic? Why do elected Congressmen/women identify America as a Democracy? This short video clearly reveals who we are and where we are headed. The John Birch Society’s effort, in this short video, is admirable. Please share this video with your family and friends and feel free to download the video and send it to every elected representative. One thing I enjoyed hearing from an elected official is Governor elect Bob McDonnell said, “Eight months ago I applied for a job, Governor of Virginia, and you hired me. I will not forget I work for you.”  He is a rare individual – he understands who his employer is – We The People.

America

Video link is here.

Thank you to all our readers and those linking to this blog. I want to take this time to wish all of you and your family, a very Happy Thanksgiving. May we all reflect on God Almighty’s mercy, grace and truth towards mankind as a whole and may we thank our Great Creator for all his blessings bestowed upon us and our country. As George Washington, let us get on our knees and give thanks and ask for mercy and victory. Happy Thanksgiving.

Please take note of NC Freedom who has 100% of my support

by NC Freedom

http://triangle.ncfreedom.us/2009/11/25/how-to-destroy-the-republic-1792/

Thomas Jefferson started the National Gazette newspaper to present his views on our fledgling republic that were in direct conflict with the views of Alexander Hamilton. Philip Freneau was the editor who wrote an editorial in 1792 titled: RULES FOR CHANGING A REPUBLIC INTO A MONARCHY. Of course today, monarchies are known as dictatorships. John Ainsworth directed me to item number 6 of the 15 points detailed  in the editorial:

6. But the grand nostrum will be a public debt, provided enough of it can be got and it be medicated with the proper ingredients. If by good fortune a debt be ready at hand, the most is to be made of it. Stretch it and swell it to the utmost the items will bear. Allow as many extra claims as decency will permit. Assume all the debts of your neighbors — in a word, get as much debt as can be raked and scraped together, and when you have got all you can, “advertise” for more, and have the debt made as big as possible. This object being accomplished, the next will be to make it as perpetual as possible; and the next to that, to get it into as few hands as possible. The more effectually to bring this about, modify the debt, complicate it, divide it, subdivide it, subtract it, postpone it, let there be one-third of two-thirds, and two-thirds of one-third, and two-thirds of two-thirds; let there be 3 percents, and 4 percents, and 6 percents, and present 6 percents, and future 6 percents. To be brief, let the whole be such a mystery that a few only can understand it; and let all possible opportunities and informations fall in the way of these few, to clinch their advantages over the many.

I have provided the definition of the word “nostrum” below since I believe this word is not taught in our public school systems.

1. A medicine whose effectiveness is unproved and whose ingredients are usually secret; a quack remedy.

2. A favorite but usually ineffective remedy for problems or evils.

I think I will using this word often in the future when talking about Climate Change, Healthcare and Stimulus Plans.

I encourage you to read the entire editorial by clicking here.  The analogies to our current economic status are easily seen. I wonder if Cloward and Piven read this editorial and were just plagiarizing “old news”.

David DeGerolamo

Read number 6. closley, and this was written back in the 1700’s

by Philip Freneau

Those who had opposed the Constitution thought their fears justified by the conduct of the government that began to function in 1789. Under the aggressive leadership of Alexander Hamilton, the secretary of the treasury, economic measures were taken that favored the few, while an effective party machine was organized and the army strengthened in such a way as to suggest an intent to control rather than to represent the many. The whole tone of Washington’s administration was aristocratic, favoring as it did the educated, the wealthy, the clergy, and the press, who were fearful of “mob rule” and preferred to see what Hamilton called “gentlemen of principle and property” in command. As Hamilton had at his service a newspaper — John Fenno’s Gazette of the United States — to support his policies, his opponents, led by Jefferson and Madison, decided to establish a rival newspaper, the National Gazette. Philip Freneau, an experienced journalist of known democratic leanings, was chosen to edit the paper. The editorial, reprinted here, is typical of those in which Freneau criticized the Hamiltonian program from 1791 to 1793.

Rules for changing a limited republican government into an unlimited hereditary one.

1. It being necessary, in order to effect the change, to get rid of constitutional shackles and popular prejudices, all possible means and occasions are to be used for both these purposes.

2. Nothing being more likely to prepare the vulgar mind for aristocratical ranks and hereditary powers than titles, endeavor in the offset of the government to confer these on its most dignified officers. If the principle magistrate should happen to be particularly venerable in the eyes of the people, take advantage of that fortunate circumstance in setting the example.

3. Should the attempt fail through his republican aversion to it, or from the danger of alarming the people, do not abandon the enterprise altogether, but lay up the proposition in record. Time may gain it respect, and it will be there always ready, cut and dried, for any favorable conjuncture that may offer.

4. In drawing all bills, resolutions, and reports, keep constantly in view that the limitations in the Constitution are ultimately to be explained away. Precedents and phrases may thus be shuffled in, without being adverted to by candid or weak people, of which good use may afterward be made.

5. As the novelty and bustle of inaugurating the government will for some time keep the public mind in a heedless and unsettled state, let the press during this period be busy in propogating the doctrines of monarchy and aristocracy. For this purpose it will be particularly useful to confound a mobbish democracy with a representative republic, that by exhibiting all the turbulent examples and enormities of the former, an odium may be thrown on the character of the latter. Review all the civil contests, convulsions, factions, broils, squabbles, bickerings, black eyes, and bloody noses of ancient, middle, and modern ages; caricature them into the most frightful forms and colors that can be imagined; and unfold one scene of the horrible tragedy after another till the people be made, if possible, to tremble at their own shadows. Let the discourses on Davila then contrast with these pictures of terror the quiet of hereditary succession, the reverence claimed by birth and nobility, and the fascinating influence of stars, and ribands, and garters, cautiously suppressing all the bloody tragedies and unceasing oppressions which form the history of this species of government. No pains should be spared in this part of the undertaking, for the greatest will be wanted, it being extremely difficult, especially when a people have been taught to reason and feel their rights, to convince them that a king, who is always an enemy to the people, and a nobility, who are perhaps still more so, will take better care of the people than the people will take of themselves.

6. But the grand nostrum will be a public debt, provided enough of it can be got and it be medicated with the proper ingredients. If by good fortune a debt be ready at hand, the most is to be made of it. Stretch it and swell it to the utmost the items will bear. Allow as many extra claims as decency will permit. Assume all the debts of your neighbors — in a word, get as much debt as can be raked and scraped together, and when you have got all you can, “advertise” for more, and have the debt made as big as possible. This object being accomplished, the next will be to make it as perpetual as possible; and the next to that, to get it into as few hands as possible. The more effectually to bring this about, modify the debt, complicate it, divide it, subdivide it, subtract it, postpone it, let there be one-third of two-thirds, and two-thirds of one-third, and two-thirds of two-thirds; let there be 3 percents, and 4 percents, and 6 percents, and present 6 percents, and future 6 percents. To be brief, let the whole be such a mystery that a few only can understand it; and let all possible opportunities and informations fall in the way of these few, to clinch their advantages over the many.

7. It must not be forgotten that the members of the legislative body are to have a deep stake in the game. This is an essential point, and happily is attended with no difficulty. A sufficient number, properly disposed, can alternately legislate and speculate, and speculate and legislate, and buy and sell, and sell and buy, until a due portion of the property of their constituents has passed into their hands to give them an interest against their constituents, and to ensure the part they are to act. All this, however, must be carried on under cover of the closest secrecy; and it is particularly lucky that dealings in paper admit of more secrecy than any other. Should a discovery take place, the whole plan may be blown up.

8. The ways in which a great debt, so constituted and applied, will contribute to the ultimate end in view are both numerous and obvious. (1) The favorite few, thus possessed of it, whether within or without the government, will feel the staunchest fealty to it, and will go through thick and thin to support it in all its oppressions and usurpations. (2) Their money will give them consequence and influence, even among those who have been tricked out of it. (3) They will be the readiest materials that can be found for a hereditary aristocratic order, whenever matters are ripe for one. (4) A great debt will require great taxes; great taxes, many taxgatherers and other officers; and all officers are auxiliaries of power. (5) Heavy taxes may produce discontents; these may threaten resistance; and in proportion to this danger will be the pretense for a standing army to repel it. (6) A standing army, in its turn, will increase the moral force of the government by means of its appointments, and give it physical force by means of the sword, thus doubly forwarding the main object.

9. The management of a great funded debt and an extensive system of taxes will afford a plea, not to be neglected, for establishing a great incorporated bank. The use of such a machine is well understood. If the Constitution, according to its fair meaning, should not authorize it, so much the better. Push it through by a forced meaning and you will get in the bargain an admirable precedent for future misconstructions.

In fashioning the bank, remember that it is to be made particularly instrumental in enriching and aggrandizing the elect few, who are to be called in due season to the honors and felicities of the kingdom preparing for them, and who are the pillars that must support it. It will be easy to throw the benefit entirely into their hands, and to make it a solid addition of 50, or 60, or 70 percent to their former capitals of 800 percent, or 900 percent, without costing them a shilling; while it will be so difficult to explain to the people that this gain of the few is at the cost of the many, that the contrary may be boldly and safely pretended. The bank will be pregnant with other important advantages. It will admit the same men to be, at the same time, members of the bank and members of the government. The two institutions will thus be soldered together, and each made the stronger. Money will be put under the direction of the government, and government under the direction of money. To crown the whole, the bank will have a proper interest in swelling and perpetuating the public debt and public taxes, with all the blessings of both, because its agency and its profits will be extended in exact proportion.

10. “Divide and govern” is a maxim consecrated by the experience of ages, and should be as familiar in its use to every politician as the knife he carries in his pocket. In the work here to be executed, the best effects may be produced by this maxim, and with peculiar facility. An extensive republic made up of lesser republics necessarily contains various sorts of people, distinguished by local and other interests and prejudices. Let the whole group be well examined in all its parts and relations, geographical and political, metaphysical and metaphorical; let there be first a northern and a southern section, by a line running east and west, and then an eastern and western section, by a line running north and south. By a suitable nomenclature, the landholders cultivating different articles can be discriminated from one another, all from the class of merchants, and both from that of manufacturers.

One of the subordinate republics may be represented as a commercial state, another as a navigation state, another as a manufacturing state, others as agricultural states; and although the great body of the people in each be really agricultural, and the other characters be more or less common to all, still it will be politic to take advantage of such an arrangement. Should the members of the great republic be of different sizes, and subject to little jealousies on that account, another important division will be ready formed to your hand. Add again the divisions that may be carved out of personal interests, political opinions, and local parties. With so convenient an assortment of votes, especially with the help of the marked ones, a majority may be packed for any question with as much ease as the odd trick by an adroit gamester, and any measure whatever be carried or defeated, as the great revolution to be brought about may require.

It is only necessary, therefore, to recommend that full use be made of the resource; and to remark that, besides the direct benefit to be drawn from these artificial divisions, they will tend to smother the true and natural one, existing in all societies, between the few who are always impatient of political equality and the many who can never rise above it; between those who are to mount to the prerogatives and those who are to be saddled with the burdens of the hereditary government to be introduced — in one word, between the general mass of the people, attached to their republican government and republican interests, and the chosen band devoted to monarchy and Mammon. It is of infinite importance that this distinction should be kept out of sight. The success of the project absolutely requires it.

11. As soon as sufficient progress in the intended change shall have been made, and the public mind duly prepared according to the rules already laid down, it will be proper to venture on another and a bolder step toward a removal of the constitutional landmarks. Here the aid of the former encroachments and all the other precedents and way-paving maneuvers will be called in of course. But, in order to render success the more certain, it will be of special moment to give the most plausible and popular name that can be found to the power that is to be usurped. It may be called, for example, a power for the common safety or the public good, or, “the general welfare.” If the people should not be too much enlightened, the name will have a most imposing effect. It will escape attention that it means, in fact, the same thing with a power to do anything the government pleases “in all cases whatsoever.” To oppose the power may consequently seem to the ignorant, and be called by the artful, opposing the “general welfare,” any may be cried down under that deception.

As the people, however, may not run so readily into the snare as might be wished, it will be prudent to bait it well with some specious popular interest, such as the encouragement of manufactures, or even of agriculture, taking due care not even to mention any unpopular object to which the power is equally applicable, such as religion, etc. By this contrivance, particular classes of people may possibly be taken in who will be a valuable reinforcement.

With respect to the patronage of agriculture there is not indeed much to be expected from it. It will be too quickly seen through by the owners and tillers of the soil, that to tax them with one hand and pay back a part only with the other is a losing game on their side. From the power over manufactures more is to be hoped. It will not be so easily perceived that the premium bestowed may not be equal to the circuitous tax on consumption which pays it. There are particular reasons, too, for pushing the experiment on this class of citizens.

(1) As they live in towns and can act together, it is of vast consequence to gain them over to the interest of monarchy. (2) If the power over them be once established, the government can grant favors or monopolies, as it pleases; can raise or depress this or that place, as it pleases; can gratify this or that individual, as it pleases; in a word, by creating a dependence in so numerous and important a class of citizens, it will increase its own independence of every class and be more free to pursue the grand object in contemplation. (3) The expense of this operation will not in the end cost the government a shilling, for the moment any branch of manufacture has been brought to a state of tolerable maturity the exciseman will be ready with his constable and his search warrant to demand a reimbursement, and as much more can be squeezed out of the article. All this, it is to be remembered, supposes that the manufacturers will be weak enough to be cheated, in some respects, out of their own interests, and wicked enough, in others, to betray those of their fellow citizens; a supposition that, if known, would totally mar the experiment. Great care, therefore, must be taken to prevent it from leaking out.

12. The expediency of seizing every occasion of external danger for augmenting and perpetuating the standing military force is too obvious to escape. So important is this matter that for any loss or disaster whatever attending the national arms, there will be ample consolation and compensation in the opportunity for enlarging the establishment. A military defeat will become a political victory, and the loss of a little vulgar blood contribute to ennoble that which flows in the veins of our future dukes and marquesses.

13. The same prudence will improve the opportunity afforded by an increase of military expenditures for perpetuating the taxes required for them. If the inconsistency and absurdity of establishing a perpetual tax for a temporary service should produce any difficulty in the business, Rule 10 must be resorted to. Throw in as many extraneous motives as will make up a majority, and the thing is effected in an instant. What was before evil will become good as easily as black could be made white by the same magical operation.

14. Throughout this great undertaking it will be wise to have some particular model constantly in view. The work can then be carried on more systematically, and every measure be fortified, in the progress, by apt illustrations and authorities. Should there exist a particular monarchy against which there are fewer prejudices than against any other; should it contain a mixture of the representative principle so as to present on one side the semblance of a republican aspect; should it, moreover, have a great, funded, complicated, irredeemable debt, with all the apparatus and appurtenances of excises, banks, etc., upon that a steady eye is to be kept. In all cases it will assist, and in most its statute book will furnish a precise pattern by which there may be cut out any moneyed or monarchical project that may be wanted.

15. As it is not to be expected that the change of a republic into a monarchy, with the rapidity desired, can be carried through without occasional suspicions and alarms, it will be necessary to be prepared for such events. The best general rule on the subject is to be taken from the example of crying “Stop thief” first — neither lungs nor pens must be spared in charging every man who whispers, or even thinks, that the revolution on foot is meditated, with being himself an enemy to the established government and meaning to overturn it. Let the charge be reiterated and reverberated till at last such confusion and uncertainty be produced that the people, being not able to find out where the truth lies, withdraw their attention from the contest.

Many other rules of great wisdom and efficacy might be added; but it is conceived that the above will be abundantly enough for the purpose. This will certainly be the case if the people can be either kept asleep so as not to discover, or be thrown into artificial divisions so as not to resist, what is silently going forward. Should it be found impossible, however, to prevent the people from awakening and uniting; should all artificial distinctions give way to the natural division between the lordly minded few and the well-disposed many; should all who have common interest make a common cause and show an inflexible attachment to republicanism in opposition to a government of monarchy and of money, why then * * *

Reprinted from The Annals of America.

In 1863 the Civil War was in its second year.

In January of that year President Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation goes into effect.
However September of 1863 saw,
The bloodiest two days in American history that cost the Federals 1,657 dead, 9,756 wounded, and 4,757 missing for a total of 16,170 casualties out of 58,000 troops. The Confederate losses were 2,312 dead, 14,674 wounded and 1,468 for a total of 18,545 out of 66,000 troops.

However in the midst of that Civil War, a war where every casualty was American, President Lincoln issued a proclamation of national day of Thanksgiving and Praise to our beneficent Father who dwelleth in the Heavens.…and…fervently implore the interposition of the Almighty Hand to heal the wounds of the nation and to restore it as soon as may be consistent with the Divine purposes to the full enjoyment of peace, harmony, tranquillity and Union.

Today we are engaged in a war. Although no shots have been fired, or blood shed, our country has been taken over in a bloodless coup by a Fascists regime that seeks to destroy our Republic with a Unconstitutional ideology.

This Thanksgiving let us give thanks for the bounty of America and let us fervently implore the interposition of the Almighty Hand in repentance for our sins and in preserving our Constitution, our Republic and our very way of life as a free people of a Representative Republic that places our trust in God “In God We Trust”

Proclamation Establishing Thanksgiving Day

October 3, 1863

The year that is drawing towards its close, has been filled with the blessings of fruitful fields and healthful skies. To these bounties, which are so constantly enjoyed that we are prone to forget the source from which they come, others have been added, which are of so extraordinary a nature, that they cannot fail to penetrate and soften even the heart which is habitually insensible to the ever watchful providence of Almighty God.

In the midst of a civil war of unequalled magnitude and severity, which has sometimes seemed to foreign States to invite and to provoke their aggression, peace has been preserved with all nations, order has been maintained, the laws have been respected and obeyed, and harmony has prevailed everywhere except in the theatre of military conflict; while that theatre has been greatly contracted by the advancing armies and navies of the Union.

Needful diversions of wealth and of strength from the fields of peaceful industry to the national defence, have not arrested the plough, the shuttle, or the ship; the axe had enlarged the borders of our settlements, and the mines, as well of iron and coal as of the precious metals, have yielded even more abundantly than heretofore. Population has steadily increased, notwithstanding the waste that has been made in the camp, the siege and the battle-field; and the country, rejoicing in the consciousness of augmented strength and vigor, is permitted to expect continuance of years, with large increase of freedom.

No human counsel hath devised nor hath any mortal hand worked out these great things. They are the gracious gifts of the Most High God, who, while dealing with us in anger for our sins, hath nevertheless remembered mercy.

It has seemed to me fit and proper that they should be solemnly, reverently and gratefully acknowledged as with one heart and voice by the whole American people. I do therefore invite my fellow citizens in every part of the United States, and also those who are at sea and those who are sojourning in foreign lands, to set apart and observe the last Thursday of November next, as a day of Thanksgiving and Praise to our beneficent Father who dwelleth in the Heavens.

And I recommend to them that while offering up the ascriptions justly due to Him for such singular deliverances and blessings, they do also, with humble penitence for our national perverseness and disobedience, commend to his tender care all those who have become widows, orphans, mourners or sufferers in the lamentable civil strife in which we are unavoidably engaged, and fervently implore the interposition of the Almighty Hand to heal the wounds of the nation and to restore it as soon as may be consistent with the Divine purposes to the full enjoyment of peace, harmony, tranquillity and Union.

In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand, and caused the seal of the United States to be affixed.

Done at the city of Washington, this third day of October, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and sixty-three, and of the independence of the United States the eighty-eighth.

A. Lincoln

I remember when I first realized that the notions I had regarding politics and social affairs could most closely be called Anarchy.  I was in one of my Spanish literature class (to my delight my second major, Spanish, was filled with all the exciting peripheral fight-the-power ideas that I had been so disappointed to learn that my original major, English, lacked), taught by my favorite professor, an Argentine.  He lectured about three recent political structures:

1st – The Nation/The People - The Nation is ruled by a government that represents the will of The People.  Top-down.

2nd – The Leader/The Masses - Coming from Argentina my professor was especially familiar with Peronism and this form of organization.  The Leader is one who sweeps to power through the overwhelming support of The Masses .  Not empowered by the national sovereignty such as Rousseau talked about…but instead representing a more coarse group outside the structure of government, one that fills government with its exploding will.  Also top-down.

3rd – The Multitudes/Sporadic Potential – He said this was what truly excited him.  The Multitudes combine to create Sporadic Potential which in turn affects the direction of decisions and policies.  Bottom-up. 

Many in my class, especially one young woman, were furious about his teachings.  She called him a communist.  But what I realized was that his political leanings were something even more taboo, which he was understandably loathe to openly admit – an anarchist.  And for the first time I understood Anarchy and it slotted completely into my misgivings about power, government, corruption and subjection.  It all made so much sense then…although this realization made me distressed and uncomfortable at first. 

 As I read further I came to realize that Anarchy had been developed over centuries, and was not as scary as I had once thought.  It seemed that above all other political theorists, the Anarchists had the most beautiful vision of human potential, the most heartrending devotion to what so many others scoff at.

The following conversation stems from an excellent post on one of my favorite blogs on WordPress, Speak Now Peace Works.  It was specifically in response to the post Positively Deviant, which talks about the success observed when ideas come from within groups instead of from outsiders providing guidance, however well-intentioned. 

It was a good opportunity to try and elaborate further on what, for me at least, Anarchy is.  It also raises some very difficult questions that an ideal conception of the world with sporadic, independently-functioning beings would have to address.  But those are the topics for further posts…

• That is why I am mostly an Anarchist!

People can solve their own problems, if we give them a chance. The human brain is more amazing than any machine could ever be…

I believe in bottom-up solutions always and hope that these ideas catch fire throughout the world!

Great to see you have been writing a lot lately, this is one of my favorite stops while my brain is fried from staring at reports and contracts, ugh…

Oh my!  I just visited Banana Republic’s website to check out their jewelry… And I want it all!  There are so many gorgeous, dainty and exquisite pieces!  I just HAD to share… [hover over each image for details]

All pieces can be found at Banana Republic’s jewelry page.

Beautiful!

This week my quotation comes from Plato’s Republic, which I am reading for a book group. I have to admit that I’m a bit daunted by all the philosophising, but I’m curious to give it a go and read the ideas. As I am only on the introduction right now, this quotation is completely random:

“It turns out, then,  that people to whom intelligence and goodness are unfamiliar, whose only interest is self-indulgence and so on, spend their lives moving aimlessly to and fro between the bottom and the halfway point, which is as far as they reach. But they never travel any further towards the true heights: they’ve never even looked up there, let alone gone there; they aren’t really satisfied by anything real; they don’t experience steady, pure pleasure.”

Page 335, Plato, Republic (Oxford World’s Classics).

Have you read any philosophical writing? What do you think of the point made here?

Before you write this off, I want to say that I am not a conspiracy theorist. Most of the time, I write these types of theories off, mainly because I know I am not prepared to adopt any new behaviors based on believing them. I am, however, a skeptic by nature and a deep thinker. For whatever reason, I decided to actually sit through this entire documentary today.

Realistically, the most beneficial aspect of this movie is not the specific details or the names of the individuals involved, but rather the message that our society must wake up and question whether our government is acting in its citizens best interests. The government operates for the people, so we must make sure that our needs are being met. If these conspiracy theorists are wrong, there is nothing to lose by considering their ideas and ensuring that they are wrong. If they are right, however, our freedom and the freedom of every coming generation may be at stake. Watch this documentary and check out his website, www.infowars.com. The fact that this video has been provided for free is a testament to the fact that Alex Jones is working to spread awareness rather than for his own personal gain.

Universal Motown Republic Group, a division of Universal Music Group, the world’s leading music company, launches two new web portals designed specifically to help unsigned artists get heard. The portals, powered by TuneCore, a leading digital music distribution company, are branded under the Republic and Motown banners:

http://www.unimodigitaldistribution.com/
http://www.republicdd.com/

Following UMG’s recent agreement with TuneCore, UMRG’s new portals will make use of TuneCore’s leading distribution platform to provide unsigned artists worldwide distribution into the iTunes Store, eMusic, Nokia and other digital download stores. In addition, artists may have the chance to be involved in label showcases, creating and producing proper studio demos, or receiving professional reviews of their music by an artist or member of the company’s A&R team.

This brooch from Banana Republic has all of the element needed for a great accessory: classic design, major bling, and a moderate price tag. Pair this with a classic black sheath or a basic blouse  to jazz it up.

Click here to purchase.

Posted by Buellboy

People in the crowd listen as President Barack Obama rallies the U.S. troops at Osan Air Base in Osan, South Korea, Nov. 19, 2009.

I want to deliver, actually, just a quick story, go a little off script. President Lee talked to me about what it was like when he was a young child here in Korea, this country having been torn by war, and the poverty that still existed in the country. And he said, I hope the American people understand how grateful we are for what you’ve done, because we would not be the extraordinarily strong, prosperous nation that we are, had it not been for the sacrifices of your armed services and the continued contributions that you’ve made.

And I thought, when the President of a country that’s become so successful says that America, and America’s armed services in particular, had something to do with the extraordinary success of their country — he said, that’s something you should take great pride in. And I want all of you to know that, because you are carrying that tradition on right here at Osan.

I couldn’t come to the Republic of Korea without coming to see you to deliver a simple message — a message of thanks to you and your families. Because of all the privileges of serving as President, I have no greater honor than serving as Commander-in-Chief of the finest military that the world has ever known.~President Barack Obama

Additional photos @

Republic

Green tea ice cream

Beef stew

Arranged by the Porsche 356 Club of Southern California, American icon Steve McQueen, was the feature draw for a car show held at his Alma Mater, “Boys Republic” in Chino Hills Ca. Steve died nearly 28 years ago but is still giving back to society. His presence on the world stage left a legacy that continues to create new legions of fans. Steve is the only endorsee of Tag Heuer watches that is not alive and yet his Monaco watch is still among their best sellers. Starring in movies like ” Le Mans” (in the opinion of many pro drivers one of the best race movies ever made), Bullit (in the opinion of almost everyone who has seen it, one of the best chase scenes ever filmed) and the Great Escape (with the most famous motorcycle stunt ever filmed), Steve became an American Legend.

The crowd was treated to an eclectic and exciting variety of vehicles. There was no shortage of Porsche 356’s – both street and race. Porsches in general, and Mustangs including vintage versions of the Bullit GT350, the GT500, and the Shelby Cobras where the dominant marques. There were also two special Ford Mustangs there, which were used in the pilot of the `Knight Rider’ remake. Not lost among all this fabulous machinery and drawing their share of admirers were my Graphite Gray 1965 Pinanfarina Alfa Romeo Spider Veloce side by side with a 2005 Black Pinanfarina Ferrari Testerossa.

One of the shows major attractions was, Matt Stone and Chad McQueen doing a joint book signing for Matt’s book “McQueen’s Machines: The Cars and Bikes of a Hollywood Icon” . In addition, thousands of dollars were raised by having a raffle featuring donations from a2z Racer Gear that included a replica of the famous Team Gulf Jacket worn by McQueen in the movie Le Mans, a couple of McQueen Le Mans tribute hats and a laminated version of the famous “2 Finger Poster” and “McQueen Le Mans Movie Poster”.

This event was an first effort by the Porsche 356 Club to put on a Concours of this magnitude and, having attended many hundreds of these events, I can say it was professionally executed and I hope the basis for additional gatherings.

For more information about:
Vintage Racing Apparel
Shop For:
Unique Automotive Accessories

Norman Silverman, in addition to 40+ years of International Buying and Retailing, is a Automobile Afficiando and Vintage Race Driver.

J. Grant Swank, Jr.

Barack Hussein Obama and family sat under this cultic lecturer’s diatribes for twenty years:

The following is from a Jeremiah Wright sermon, “And God Said to Moses: I Hate Those Honkey-Ass Crackers” as posted at IMAO’s website: http://www.imao.us/archives/009779.html

Now this is outright blasphemy against Christ. Read it and call it what it is – the spirit of antiChrist:

“Now some tell me that we shouldn’t be for killing the honkeys. We should just turn the other cheek. Who says this? That cracker Jesus!

“Well, answer me this: Has Jesus ever been called a [n-word]? Did anyone invent AIDS to kill Jesus?

“Well, maybe Jesus should not be lecturing the black man on what he should and should not be doing. As we speak, the government is working on plans to send all black people to Venus! That’s right: NASA is going to send us to Venus where it is inhospitable to life and we will all die.

“So what does Jesus have to say about that? Nothing! God bless Jesus? No. God [expletive] Jesus!

“To hell with him! Throw his cracker ass out of here!”

The sermon begins with this opening paragraph: “When Moses finally escaped the Egyptians, he turned to God and asked, ‘There could surely be no one as bad at those people?’

“God said to Moses, ‘Yes there are. Beware the honkeys. Beware the crackers. Especially beware the Jews. I hate all those people. Frankly, if you blow up their buildings, that’s okay with me.’”

Jeremiah Wright is no Christian preacher. Diatribe as above is satanic. Any biblical clergyperson will vouch for that. There is no question when a biblical believer reads that kind of madness. It is satanic.

I do not believe then that Muslim B. Hussein Obama did not hear that kind of blasphemy over the two decades he sat in that sanctuary. Michelle heard it also. They both listened and took it in.

Why then did Muslim B. Hussein Obama remain there?

Because he thought, with the congregation numbering into the thousands, it would be politically advantageous to his future.

And it was. With that he became popular in Illinois which led to him making it to the US Congress.

In being politically opportunistic by joining that political plant called a “church,” Muslim Obama had likewise to join hands with Nation of Islam Louis Farakkhan for the latter was within Muslim Obama’s political district.

In being friends to Farrakhan and that Muslim conclave, Muslim Obama employed some of those in NOI on his Congressional and campaign staff.

Muslim Obama tolerated outright blasphemy, the misuse of the name of Jesus, the maligning of the ministry and incarnation of the Son of God.

For that, Muslim Obama will pay a dear price at the Judgment Seat of Christ. His soul is in grave danger of damnation.

Adding to his political opportunism by aligning with a mentor blasphemer and Islamic organizations, Muslim Obama also damns his soul by endorsing killing infants in wombs, sodomy, human stem cell research, and erasing the Judeo-Christian heritage from the US in favor of melding all religions into one.

All of the above is absolutely counter to God’s Word.

Read more at the IMAO’s website: http://www.imao.us/archives/009779.html

By J. Grant Swank, Jr.

“In the wake of 9/11, my meetings with Arab and Pakistani Americans … have a more urgent quality, for the stories of detentions and FBI questioning and hard stares from neighbors have shaken their sense of security and belonging,” he laments. “I will stand with them should the political winds shift in an ugly direction.”

That is what Barack Obama wrote in his book, “Audacity.”

Now you can be sure that when Obama is in the White House, something “ugly” will occur to offend the nation’s “Arab and Pakistani Americans”—in other words, Muslims.

So whose side will Obama then take?

He will side with the Muslims per his own public statement in his book. There is no question. It is right there.

That is not the closet Muslim which he’s been. That’s the out-in-the-open Muslim hinted about even present-tense.

“I will stand with them. . .”

That is why he stands with them in the pro-Islam sanctuary called Trinity United Church of Christ. That’s why Obama embraces Jeremiah Wright’s pro-Muslim crowning of Nation of Islam Louis Farrakhan.

That’s why Obama, with his Muslim childhood schooling, endorses the mosque-cleric-like angry yelling of Wright’s pulpit delivery.

That’s why Obama states in “Audacity” that Judeo-Christian heritage will recede as an all-religions country emerges. Obviously, from his siding with Muslims, Muslims in particular will have the upper hand in the new America.

It is scary to read just that one paragraph in his book about siding with the Muslims if matters turn “ugly.”

One can be certain that Muslims reading that paragraph will see to it that some offense will strike their sensitivities once The Boy sits in the Oval Office. Their squeals will trigger their discontent thereby triggering Obama the Muslim to spring forth.

Muslim Obama has already given us warning in his book. If we are too stupid to get it, then we are going to suffer the consequences of not being informed.

Contributor’s website: http://jgrantswankjr.blogspot.com/

Okay, so here’s my first real post: A list of stores I visit at the local mall every week, just to see what I can add to my want or need list!  Kind of weird and compulsive maybe, but I find it strangely relaxing.  So, my list is…

• MAC – The Pro Store and the counter at The Bay… If I don’t visit both, I feel like I’m cheating on the other.
• Banana Republic – I love their clothes, but rarely ever have a place to wear them.  I mostly buy jewelry from here.
• Aldo Accessories – I only buy the most fabulous rings and earrings from here.  You know, the huge, magnificent kind.  Sometimes I like their studs.
• Aritzia – For the clothes.  If you don’t have an Aritzia or know what it is, check out the link.  Amazing!
• Nine West – For purses and flats.  Love them!

J. Grant Swank, Jr.

America has always been under attack.

Communists said they’d bury us.

Remember those days when we were instructed as school children to duck under the desks if we heard the alarms? Civil Defense quarters were broadcast so we could find shelter. Some built underground bunkers in their front yards.

Then came along our own opulence. As a Christian given to frugal lifestyle, I became alarmed as America became more and more enamored with its toys. We were beleaguered by our own materialistic lusts.

Things were gods. Money was the Promised Land. And boasting of tangibles was the all-in-all creed. I pondered if we would implode because of our money success—monster homes, for example.

Add to this the “increase of sin,” as Jesus prophesied in Matthew 24. He said it would be one of the prime signs of the close of the Church Age.

Now sin abounds as that which is right. People opt for living together rather than marriage. It is posh to have that significant other. Same-sex ‘marriage’ is the legitimate right.

Sanctuaries empty. Churches close. Clergy trespass. Denominations go left with immoral doctrines.

In the Church of the Nazarene, the holiness denomination in which I was raised, website NazNet, for instance, has Moderator Hans Deventer champion a Bible that is fraught with errors. This is totally against the reliable divine revelation that was preached since the church’s start.

Deventer is joined by Moderator Scott Cundiff who believes in the same errant Scripture. Site Founder and Moderator Dave McClung does nothing to bring these two persons in line with holiness beliefs, though he states repeatedly that the site is Nazarene-friendly. It is not. It is just the opposite.

Read NAZNET DISTORTS at http://naznetdistorts.blogspot.com/

So we have had threats all along as a biblically originated nation. The thirteen colonies were composed of believers who taught Scripture to school children. Some preachers were renegades; but by and large village pastors delivered sermons regarding biblical truth as God’s Word—without question.

This is the only country on the planet that had such an origin. No other nation had settlers who carried their Bibles, kept the Lord’s Day holy, held to scriptural morality and taught judgment day accountability.

Heaven and hell were real. Jesus was Redeemer. Salvation was through conversion to Jesus. And the God of the Book was the Mighty God.

Of course there were theological liberals who opposed that biblical base; but by and large believers seeking religious freedom in the New World held to the Word’s eternal verities.

In this present age, we have as a citizenry created our own enemies in opulence, outright sinful lifestyles and a steady disregard for the Bible.

But we are still here. Why?

God has continued to show mercy because of the righteous remnant. Their prayers, added to the early colonies’ intercessory prayers, keep divine grace upon America.

It is God’s holy nature to honor is own persona. He cannot go against His caring personhood; consequently, the Republic still stands.

The newest threat to the United States is the Oval Office’s Marxist Muslim and his shadow government/czars impregnating evil government. He is out to destroy our democracy, in that sense beheading the infidels. He has long publicly witnessed that he is Muslim, though too many have never recognized that as fact.

In his left of left policies now set forth with the majority of Democrats in Congress, he is fully intent in obliterating the nation.

Nevertheless, God is still on His throne. God tops Satan.

Therefore, since Allah is Satan, the Koran was scribed by demons, and Islam is a hellish cult, God continues to defend His righteous remnant. His grace children, by simple faith, believe in that with their entire beings.

Consequently, this latest threat from a cult and its devotee, Barack Hussein Obama, will not do away with this Republic. God will level His wrath against those who would obliterate the only country planted in biblical truth.

Read “How Long will God Intervene?” at http://www.magic-city-news.com/J_Grant_Swank_61/How_Long_will_God_Intervene12456.shtml

I’ve been monitoring my blog’s stats and I’ve noticed that when it’s in moments of drought (in terms of views) the post that brings in the most traffic is the Domincano post I made early this year. People seemed really interested in the design that I came up with for the Dominicano AF1s. Therefore I’ve decided to come up with a new design for a pair of low top dunks (unless people prefer the AF1 design) . I’ll be selling this pair of dunks on EBAY when they’re done. If anyone prefers the AF1 design and would like to purchase a pair then hit me up at gyasiottley@yahoo.com

ALSO! Peep This crazy parkour video I found its siiiiick! ^_^

There is no denying that fashion plays a big role in modern society. It does not matter where you live, the current trends and styles sure to be in your community. You can not escape easily. You can not take into compliance, but they will still be to your door, directly transmitted via the TV. Banana Republic clothing is a good example of what I mean. Our society is always exercised on the absolute latest and coolest trend. We love to look beautiful, and many of uswill pay a pretty penny to do so. It's just in our nature.

Banana Republic clothing is a division of Gap Inc., in case you do not realize. I was shopping for jeans at the Gap this weekend, or a beautiful young woman came to help me. She spoke of "Banana Republic", which amazed me. Was she really saying a competitor? No, not quite. They are in fact an employment relationship between the Banana Republic, Gap and Old Navy. It does not take a clairvoyant to figure outit under a blanket. They are different price ranges for various shopping audience by extension, they appeal to all in the economic stratus. It's a pretty smart way of doing business, I think. That's probably why they have been in business for so many years.

I noticed for the first time, Banana Republic clothes when I was always willing to do a photo shoot. I needed some sharp clothes that actually look good in front of the camera. The photographer called Banana Republic, so Iwent and looked. I was a little surprised, but I really liked it, what I saw. If you are a kind of up-beat, high fashion look in a modern world, Banana Republic clothes just right. Whether many of us men, you will be honest enough to admit it or not, we also like fashion. There is no doubt that the ladies love guys who are well dressed. Women go out of their way to look beautiful, why would they want a PC with a single blow. It is actually fairly universal. Theywill tell you that surfing is tuxedo looks much nicer than a Surf in a ragged jeans and a dirty T-shirt.

My wife also loves Banana Republic clothes. He offers her a nice business-Sheikh eye for their profession. I has no idea what that means, but what she told me. It can be a bit expensive for some items, but given the cost of some of the other clothing stores, which she visited, I'd say it's not so bad.

You can easily see for themselvesby for a quick navigation through Nordstrom's or Guess. Looking nice today can be an expensive undertaking. It really does not matter whether you're a man or a woman, you can add a style right for you can be found at Banana Republic. They make very nice on both sides of the gender stew. The clothes are for those in a business atmosphere, suitable, or those who find interest elegance for a night on the town. Whatever your style, you probably will find something exciting in Banana Republic.