text:
Cell phone thieves accustomed to turning big profits on stolen devices may soon find themselves out of business as a new national system comes on line to render any phone reported stolen permanently inoperable.
That may be small comfort to anyone with a missing phone now. But authorities expect the new system—a shared database of stolen phones—will vastly cut down on cell phone crime, which by one estimate makes up at least a third of all robberies.
The database "could probably kill this black market pretty quick," said Kenneth Angarone, a Chicago police commander who until recently ran a downtown precinct where much of the city's smartphone crime occurs. "You take away the black market and you take away the issue."
U.S. & World
The first phase of what advocates hope will grow into a nationwide effort to track pilfered devices, involves AT&T and T-Mobile. On Oct. 31 the two carriers, which operate on the GSM network, began sharing records on all devices reported lost or stolen to prevent them from being reactivated.
Verizon and Sprint, which operate on the CDMA network and maintain their own individual blacklists, will merge their data into a more comprehensive database by November 2013. That will give the country's four major carriers access to a nearly complete roster of phones reported stolen in the United States.
It's a big change, and one authorities welcome.
Until recently, most phones operating on GSM technology have been tracked by their SIM cards, which can easily be tossed. The new joint database will track the handsets themselves, through a unique identification number, akin to a car's VIN.
"What the database does is to try to make the hardware a useless two-ounce piece of plastic and metal," said Chris Guttman-McCabe, vice president of regulatory affairs for the CTIA, an industry trade group.
Thirty to 40 percent of all robberies in major cities involve cell phone heists, according to FCC data released last spring, with iPhone crime topping the charts. Asurion, the insurance giant that provides coverage for Verizon, Sprint and T-Mobile wireless customers, saw a 140 percent spike in smartphone claims between 2009 and 2011, with iPhones representing more than half of all lost or stolen phones last year.
One police chief's quest
These sorts of statistics prompted Cathy Lanier, chief of police in Washington D.C., to spearhead a nationwide initiative to weaken the black market that's been fueling the crime wave.
Her efforts began in May 2011 when her morning review of crime reports showed a dramatic spike in stolen iPhones in her city.
"I kept reading over and over, not just about robberies, but robberies in all different areas of the city in which they were specifically asking victims for their phones" Lanier said. There were snatch-and-grab crimes, armed holdups and even cases of masked gunman storming retail shops, bypassing the cash registers and demanding boxes of iPhones.
Alarmed, she sent an email blast to police commanders in other cities asking if anyone else was having the same problem. Immediately, the responses poured in.
"This is a nationwide problem here," she remembers thinking.
As Lanier and her staff continued researching the issue, they noticed that authorities in the United Kingdom had thwarted a similar problem by developing a national blacklist that prevented the thieves from activating phones that had been reported stolen. She wondered why there was no such database in America and began mustering police executives to lobby telecommunications carriers to create one.
The carriers had to be on board, she believed, for the crime wave to end. The stolen-car epidemic of the 1980s and 1990s, Lanier pointed out, only ended when carmakers began including technology that made new cars "nearly impossible" to heist.
The response from the phone companies, however, was disappointing.
"They entertained us a little, but I didn't think they were really getting our sense of urgency, to put it lightly," Lanier said.
She took her case to local news publications and the FCC, and was eventually invited on the "Today" show in March, where she blasted the wireless companies for putting profits over the safety of their customers. "Shame on you," she said on the show. "This is something that's fixable. It's not all about profit."
Visit NBCNews.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy
Just a month later, nearly a year after Lanier's initial requests, the telecommunications companies finally agreed to phase in a centralized database.
Leading up to the launch, smartphone crime in her city and others remained a problem. In September, the NYPD announced a 40 percent jump in the theft of Apple products, year over year, and a joint effort with the city's Metro Transit Authority to hide decoy cops on subway trains where muggings frequently occur. The same month in Las Vegas, police announced that they had busted two snatch-and-grab cell phone rings that "were making a living" off their crimes, according to spokesman Sgt. Bill Cassell. And in Chicago the release of the iPhone 5 was met with beefed up security to prevent "apple-picking."
Apple serves as a leader
Throughout the crime wave, Apple's "Find My iPhone" application has been one of the most successful tools for tracking down phones once they've gone missing, and one that cell carriers are urging their customers to use. Apple has trained some police departments, like the Chicago police department, in using the tool, which can pinpoint the location of a stolen device using GPS technology.
Det. Sgt. Daniel Herrington from Florida's Port St. Lucie Police Department recalls recently using the app to track a stolen phone that went missing at a high school volleyball game the night before.
Herrington and his partner, using login information provided by the victim's father, activated the tool and were given an address.
"We drove right to the kid's house and knocked on his door," Herrington said. "He answered and said, 'is this about the iPhone?"
While the app has been a godsend to the millions of Apple customers who lose their phones each year, it's still a reactive tool and not one that attacks the source of the crime problem the way the database might—particularly once it expands in 2013 to include devices operating on the LTE network, which is used beyond the United States.
The FCC and Mexican government agreed this month to share their expanding databases, a step that authorities hope will curb the smuggling of stolen phones across the border.
Commander John Graeber of the Chicago Police Department's transit division expressed optimism about the blacklist shortly before AT&T and T-Mobile synched their databases. "The word is going to get out there really quick when that guy I sold to wants to get it re-upped and it's dead weight," he said. "I'm very anxious to see this go into place."
Still, security experts warn that more sophisticated thieves, including members of organized crime rings, will figure out ways around the database—how to mask stolen phones' electronic fingerprint, for example.
"It's not a silver bullet," said Dana Adams, a telecommunications security consultant based in Canada. The database "is a tool to focus on petty crime and hopefully it will grow into a national database." But some crime, Adams said, will persist. "There's too much money in it."


text:
Jinhua, Zhejiang, China
Member Since: 2016
Business Type: Manufacturer/Factory & Trading Company
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subset: commoncrawl


text:
Electronics — Some Possibilities and Limitations
Presented at the Twelfth Naval District Electronic Data Processing
Systems Conference, Alameda, California — March 1956
"The potential for application of automatic data-processing techniques
in Defense is both tremendous and immediate. Virtually every known business or industrial application has its counterpart in Defense (usually magnified many times)". These are quotations from a report by the Advisory Committee on Electronic Computers for Defense Business.
Just what do these statements mean to your department, the Navy?
It seems that two points are raised here. First, we must become
informed and convinced as to why there is a tremendous and immediate
potential for electronic data processing; and second, we must become better acquainted with the Navy's business problems in order to determine whether or not they can be solved on these remarkable machines.
Perhaps the only way to become informed and convinced of the possibilities inherent in electronics is to step down from Cloud 9 and look closely and critically at the machine systems and their hardware. That is the fundamental reason for this conference — namely, to acquaint
you with electronic data processing so that you can realize the significance of this development. It is entirely possible that your individual
problem — seemingly insurmountable hitherto — is subject to solution by this new technique. That is what is especially important about this conference. It is an opportunity to expose your thinking mechanisms to an unexplored wilderness of potential uses for the most powerful processing system yet devised for business applications.
What do electronic systems offer that is unique? Is it some new concept in office-machine construction with wholly new characteristics? Is it the novelty of magnetic-tape files? Is it the high level of automation
using the minimum of human supervision for performance of


text:
Will Nike attend the free agent summit?
There are all kinds of people in that conversation. LeBron James has said he is the ringleader. Dwyane Wade, Chris Bosh, Joe Johnson … it's a who's who of this year's free agent class. In terms of having a lot at stake, those players are at the top of the list with the owners, staffs and fans of the various teams.
But there is another interested party no one has mentioned: Nike, and its affiliated Jordan brand.
That is a giant corporation with a lot of branding tied up in basketball, and specifically the footwear of the best basketball players in the world, including James, Bosh, Wade and Johnson as well as Amare Stoudemire, Dirk Nowitzki and dozens more who could change teams this year. Where they all end up will not just determine the fortunes of various NBA teams, but also the abilities of those players to inspire fans to buy shoes.
Link to article by Henry Abbott on ESPN Truehoop
HoopsVibe's Very Quick Call: While furthering The Swoosh may not be priority one, it will be a major priority.
Players like Chris Bosh, LeBron James, and Dwyane Wade view themselves as brands and value their lucrative relationships with Nike.
These players have people whose job is to figure out the impact playing for a certain team will have on sponsors. For instance, fact or fiction, much has been speculated about Nike wanting James in the world's largest media market, New York City.
Clearly, The Great Free Agent Chase of 2010 is about the business of basketball, and not so much the game of basketball.
Got thoughts on Nike's role in the free agent summit?


text:
Hewlett-Packard Takes Second $8 Billion Deal Charge This Year
Hewlett-Packard continues to rue the day it bought Autonomy.
A deal that was controversial before the ink even dried, just got even more controversial as the PC giant took an $8.8 billion write-down.
The deal was already seen as a key reason former, and short-tenured, Hewlett-Packard CEO Leo Apotheker lost his job. Now H-P has started throwing around accusations of accounting issues.
Amazingly it is H-P's second $8 billion writedown this year, following pretty closely on the heels on August's $8 billion mark against the 2008, $13.25 billion purchase of Electronic Data Systems.
But even with over $18 billion of goodwill written down in just the final six months of its fiscal year, H-P remains packing a hefty amount on its balance sheet. There remains $35.6 billion on the company's books as of the end of the quarter.
Shares are slumping 9.4% to $12.05 in premarket trading.


text:
MACON, Ga. – The Atlantic Sun preseason cross country polls were announced, Wednesday, with the Bison and Lady Bison squads poised for big years. The women's team was picked to finish second, while the men's team was chosen seventh.
The Lady Bisons were picked second behind defending champion North Florida, garnering two of the 10 first-place votes and 92 points total, just behind the Ospreys total of 98.
"Our women were second last year," said Lipscomb head coach Bill Taylor. "With North Florida returning everyone from their championship team, and adding more talent, they're definitely the top team coming in."
The women's squad returns sophomore Danielle Walker, who was the Atlantic Sun's Female Freshman of the Year for the 2010 cross country season. She finished fourth, the best finish ever by a Lady Bison, in the 2010 A-Sun Cross Country Championships.
She was joined on the All-Freshman team and as an all-conference representative by Alex Newby, who finished 13th at last year's A-Sun Championships.
Senior Ashley Lehman was also second-team all-conference last season after an 11th-place run. Senior Louisa Van Batavia was also a top-20 performer last year, finishing 19th.
"We are fortunate to return a lot of talent and to add very talented girls to our roster," said Taylor. "With the whole conference getting stronger on the women's side, it's going to be a very fun season."
On the men's side, two-time defending champion Kennesaw State was picked to make it a three-peat, garnering nine of 10 first-place votes and 99 points. Belmont took the lone other first-place vote, finishing second with 82 points.
The men's squad finished ninth at last year's A-Sun Championships, and return their top six finishers from a year ago. Among those is all-conference performer Geoff Musick, who was 13th at last year's A-Sun Championships.
"The men have a lot of work to do," said Taylor. "We did not compete well at conference last year. They have some motivation to show that they are better than that performance and better than their ranking. We have a great opportunity to up this season and move the program forward."
The cross country teams will open the season Friday, Sept. 2, in the Belmont Opener at Percy Warner Park.


text:
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Learn how BirdEye can help you get new reviews, be found online, and grow your business - easily and effectively.
Dr. Dennis Brender, DDS
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text:
TOWSON, Md. – Senior Thomas DeNapoli had a five-point game (4g, 1a) and freshman Joe Seider added four points (3g, 1a) to lead Towson men's lacrosse to an 11-8 season-opening win over High Point at Unitas Stadium Saturday morning.
The Tigers finished the first quarter tied, 3-3, with High Point and went into the half trailing, 5-4. But Towson exploded to outscore the Panthers 5-0 in the third quarter and withstand a late three-goal rally from HPU. DeNapoli's four goals paced the Tigers. Christian Beith and Dan Lomas each had two goals for the Panthers. Tiger goalie Tyler White made four saves in his collegiate debut while Austin Geisler stopped 12 shots for High Point.
"I thought this first game would be an adjustment, with so many guys in different roles," said Head Coach Shawn Nadelen. "Our guys continue to get comfortable with each other. It's why I wanted to play Syracuse in the preseason, to give our guys the chance to come out and execute. I'm excited they came out onto the field [today] and attacked and played with a lot of poise, for the most part."
DeNapoli recorded his 11th career hat trick at 7:18 when he scored back-to-back tallies – the first was an extra-man goal and the eventual game-winner. DeNapoli was the last Tiger to have a four-goal game when he led Towson in a 9-8 overtime win over Mercer on Feb. 24, 2013.
Seider made his 19th birthday memorable with his first career hat trick. He scored two straight goals at 6:14 and 2:09 in the third quarter before scoring falling down from close range at 9:30 in the fourth.
"I didn't really focus on my birthday; it was the first game of my college career," said Seider. "I was just focused on scoring goals and helping my team win as much as I can."
The game was uneven to start, with both teams running the field and committing turnovers. Spencer Wichert got High Point on the board first, at 8:57 in the first quarter. The Tigers and Panthers matched goals for the rest of the frame. Senior Max Siskind had his first multi-goal game of his career when he opened the second and third quarters with tallies. The goal at 9:22 in the third came on an extra-man opportunity off a pass from DeNapoli.
DeNapoli and Seider each scored back-to-back goals in the third quarter as part of that 5-0 run. Beith scored his first of the season for HPU to start the fourth quarter, but it was too late to mount a comeback.
Towson outshot High Point 41-26 and picked up 25 ground balls to HPU's 14. The Tigers also won 11 of 20 face-offs.
Next up, Towson faces Johns Hopkins on Saturday, Feb. 15 at 4 p.m. on Homewood Field. The game will be broadcast on ESPN3.


text:
NASHVILLE, Tenn. -Lipscomb cross country coach Bill Taylor sent his front line men's runners into competition Saturday morning in the Commodore Invitational hosted by Vanderbilt at Percy Warner Park.
There were four races on the schedule. Lipscomb runners participated in three of them.
In the Men's 8-K Gold Run the Bisons finished 16th of 24 teams. In the Men's 8-K Black Run the Bisons placed seventh out of 15 teams. In the Women's 6-K Gold Run the Lady Bisons, competing without their top 15 runners, finished 20th in a field of 24 teams.
"Overall the men improved over our last race," Taylor said. "We've made progress, which is positive,"
In the Gold Run the Bisons were paced by a pair of freshmen _ Daniel Gardner in 53rd place with a time if 26:02.16 and Matthew Hall in 59th with a 26:07.37.
"Daniel Gardner tied the fastest ever time by a Lipscomb freshman on the Vaughn's Gap course, a place we race at least once every year," Taylor said. "He and Matt Hall are going to be really good.
"They are just figuring this whole college and 8-K thing out. Once they realize they can run and stay with the top runners in any race, big things are going to happen."
Rounding out the field in the Gold Run were sophomore Ryan Gadsey (114, 27:02.66); freshman Austin Casassa (121, 27:06.98); sophomore Tate Honaker (122, 27:07.62); senior Ben Wright (123, 27:07.74); sophomore Tyler Glenn (147, 28:05.14).
Freshman Jared Wingerter placed 23rd for the Bisons in the Black Run with a time of 27:09.40. Sophomore Dan Coleman finished in the 38th spot with a time if 27:46.10 and freshman Mason Shepherd crossed the finish line in 41st place with a time of 27:52.40.
Also finishing the race for the Bisons were sophomore Zak Vruwink (57, 28:34.30); freshman Max McBride (97, 30:23.60); sophomore Ben Ashley (105, 30:42.30) and junior Philip Brasher (112, 31:47.60).
The top Lady Bisons finisher in the Women's Gold Run was sophomore Renee Menzie in 106th place with a time of 23:50.34.
The rest of the Lady Bisons finishers were sophomore Lana Hojeij (142, 24:44.20); junior Katie Bunker (155, 25:05.58); junior Anna Belner (165, 25:26.80); and freshman Makenna Rickner (176, 26:04.29).
"I was happy with the effort of the five women we ran," Taylor said. "They put it all out there."
The Lady Bisons travel to Toledo, Ohio for the Inter-regional "Bubblebuster" Sept. 21. The men will take the weekend off.
"It will be fun to see the whole women's team in action together next Friday though," Taylor said. "It was odd not having our top women racing at Vaughn's Gap today.
"They learned a lot from watching the race though. Sometimes you learn by racing and sometimes you learn by observing."
Written by Mark McGee, Senior Publisher/Director of Media Relations for Athletics.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. -Lipscomb cross country coach Bill Taylor sent his front line men's runners into competition Saturday morning in the Commodore Invitational hosted by Vanderbilt at Percy Warner Park.


text:
Larry J. King is sick of uranium. After mining the metal in the '70s and '80s, he means that literally and figuratively. "We weren't told about the hazards," he says.
He started working in the mines before OSHA laws were routinely followed. "Thirty years later, I've got an unexplained respiratory problem," he says, and other former employees have similar health issues.
King has seen the effects of uranium not just on his body but on his land. Hundreds of abandoned mines pit the landscape of the Navajo Nation. They are remnants of the Cold War's hunt for ore. The sovereign nation outlawed uranium mining and processing in 2005 in response to high cancer rates. Yet King is one of many members of the tribe who are fighting plans to mine uranium from an aquifer.
Hydro Resources, Inc. requested a permit 23 years ago to dig into the West Water Canyon Aquifer, which sits directly underneath Church Rock, N.M. The company was granted the permit. The only reason it hasn't started work is it doesn't have the money, says Eric Jantz, staff attorney at the New Mexico Environmental Law Center.
Hydro Resources CEO Alton Cherry did not return calls for comment.
Jantz is leading an effort to revoke the company's permit. He represents more than 300 members of Eastern Navajo Diné Against Uranium Mining, a group for which King is a board member. Hydro Resources wants to mine four sites in two towns: Church Rock and the neighboring burg of Crownpoint. The latter already taps the aquifer for much of its drinking water. Church Rock used to have wells in the aquifer, but they were closed a few years ago, Jantz says, because of contamination from past uranium mines. Although Church Rock doesn't use the aquifer today, it does consider it a future water source. Mining it for uranium will pollute the water under the two towns and make it undrinkable.
Rich Abitz, a geochemist, explains the process: Uranium deposits occur naturally in aquifers throughout the Southwest. Left undisturbed, those deposits are basically harmless. But when mined, uranium and other heavy metals that attach to it are broken up and released into the aquifer. Even though the metals are extracted, the process "releases a number of contaminants that destroy the water quality," Abitz says. Those include toxins such as arsenic and radium. "Once the mining commences, you would not want to drink that water."
Usually, the Navajo Nation would have authority over a project that affects its water supply. But in this case, the 160-acre parcel Hydro Resources wants to bore into is private land, even though the region is home to a Navajo community and surrounding land is tribal.
Since the Navajo Nation doesn't have jurisdiction over the land, the anti-uranium mining group and the law center have asked the Environmental Protection Agency to revisit Hydro Resources' permit. A month ago, the EPA agreed.
This battle has been waged for years, slowly winding its way through bureaucracy. It started in 1994, when concerned people formed Eastern Navajo Diné Against Uranium Mining after finding out about the company's plans.
In order for Hydro Resources to mine, the company needed three things: a permit from the EPA, a license from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission and a state permit. By the time the group learned of the project, Hydro Resources had all three. The Environmental Law Center first approached the nuclear commission in 1995 and asked that the license be overturned. The case lasted until 2010, when that request was denied.
The EPA is revisiting its decision to grant Hydro Resources a permit, but there's still no timeframe for a ruling. In the meantime, King has started a campaign on Change.org that asks people to sign a petition to prevent the mining. Up since the first week of April, it's already accrued more than 10,300 signatures. The goal is 20,000.
"Being in the Southwest, and being where every drop of water is precious—and where water is sacred, too—we need to preserve the water not only for ourselves but for future generations," says King. "Without water, there is nothing."
Geochemist Abitz adds that pulling uranium from beneath American soil wouldn't benefit the local economy and would only go to the free market. "It's nonsense when people talk about, Let us help our domestic costs," he says. Still, he adds that he's not against the practice. "I believe you can go and do uranium mining, as long as you don't do it in someone's drinking water supply," he says. "There are finite water resources out there, and the water is far more valuable than any uranium."


text:
Diseñadores de todas las partes del mundo están proponiendo diseños creativos a bleitzel en la categoría de diseño logotipo - custom.
Looking for a high-end logo design. Our clients will be the large world-wide wireless telecoms and handset manufacturers. We need something that looks good in presentations.
Desired Color Scheme:
Multi-colored desired
Accepted File Formats:
We've developed and patented a fantastic advancement in cell phone technology that allows a consumer to own and use several different styles of cell phones at the same time with their one mobile telephone number. This would allow fashionistas to own cell phones that meet all of their wartdrobe needs, not be tied to just one style/color/design. Our intent is to license our tech to handset manufacturers who will create several styles of phones in partnership with major retailers and sell them through the retailers. Our logo should have our name and some graphic with multiple handsets in different colors, designs, styles etc., with or without a graphic that gives the impression of interchangability or cell service jumping from mobile to mobile.
Descubre cómo funciona un concurso de diseño u obtén más información sobre nuestros servicios de diseño de logo.


text:
There are eight million merchants in the United States that accept credit cards.
In just over a year of existence, one million of them now use Square, the small device that plugs into the headphones jack on an iOS or Android device.
Square CEO Jack Dorsey tweeted the milestone for the small San Francisco startup Tuesday.
"Just as small businesses are growing with Square, we're growing with them: Over 1 million merchants now accept credit cards via @Square," he tweeted.
Give further context to the achievement he sent a second tweet that read "To put that in perspective: there are only 8 million merchants who accept credit cards in the US. @Square has added 1 million."
Square processed over $2 billion in credit cards this past year, taking home 2.75 percent of every swipe.
While the startup with about 200 employees is still very much in the growing stages, it has shown strong growth and growing power by building on a small business and small entrepreneur market.
The industry leader for mobile payment processing is still PayPal, who processed about $3.5 billion worth of transactions this past year.
Square Reaches 1 in 8 Credit Takers
There are eight million merchants in the United States that accept credit cards.


text:
Total $0.00
Designed for specific vehicles the Injen Titanium Tip (TT) Edition gives the Super SES exhaust line its added flare. With a more aggressive burnt titanium tip finish larger diameters (where applicable) and featuring a slip fit design- the Injen SES TT edition has proven to be the next best thing since the release of the SES line.
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text:
Today the State Archives of Florida remembers John Glenn. Glenn passed away on December 8th, 2016 at the age of 95.
Glenn led a remarkable life full of accomplishment. After serving as a highly decorated Marine Corps pilot in WWII and Korea, he set the transcontinental flight speed record in 1957. Glenn set further records after joining the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) as a test pilot in 1959. During his time at NASA, Glenn was the first American to orbit Earth in 1962 and the oldest person to travel to space when he returned with the Space Shuttle program in 1998, at the age of 77. Glenn also served from 1977 to 1999 as United States Senator for his home state of Ohio.
Glenn and his fellow Project Mercury astronauts, the "Original Seven," were the United States' best hope against the Soviet Union in the space race. The group of test pilots accomplished many firsts from the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, including the first American in space (Alan Shepard) and John Glenn's monumental trip around the Earth.
The achievements of Glenn and his fellow pioneers bolstered American interest in NASA and space exploration. Their work propelled NASA through the Apollo program, the Moon landing, and the Space Shuttle program, cementing the place of space exploration in the minds of young Americans for years to come.


text: Judge. b. Oklahoma. B.S., University of Tulsa, 1980; J.D., University of Tulsa College of Law, 1987; LL.M., Taxation, University of Denver College of Law, 1993. Admitted to the Supreme Court of Oklahoma and U.S. District Court for the District of Oklahoma, 1988; U.S. Tax Court, U.S. Court of Federal Claims, U.S. Court of Appeals for the Tenth Circuit, 1993; Supreme Court of Colorado, 1994. Former partner, Brumley Bishop and Paris, 1992; Senior Associate, McKenna and Cueno, 1994; Tax Partner, Reinhart, Boerner, Van Deuren, Norris and Rieselbach, 1998. Tax Counsel to the United States Senate Finance Committee, 2000-2008. Member of the American Bar Association, Section of Taxation and Real Property and Probate Sections, formerly served as Vice Chair to both Agriculture and Entity Selection Committees. Member of Colorado and Oklahoma Bar Associations. Recognized as Distinguished Alumnus by the University of Tulsa School of law. Author of numerous tax, estate planning, real property, agriculture articles and chapters. Former Adjunct Professor, Georgetown University Law Center, LL.M. Taxation Program, and University of Tulsa College of Law. Appointed by President George W. Bush as Judge, United States Tax Court, on July 30, 2008, for a term ending July 29, 2023.


text:
(877) 584-7458
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Sizing hint:These gloves run true to size.
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text:
Combining ornamental grasses can give your landscape a very naturalized look. Pictured from front
are Mexican feather grass, purple fountain grass, lavender, the pink-beige tufted oriental fountain grass
and miscanthus. The deep burgundy spiked blades in the right foreground belong to the annual
'Baby Bronze' New Zealand flax. (Photo by Saxon Holt.)
Whether you're planning a new landscape or rejuvenating an established one, ornamental grasses can add surprising pizzazz. They are dynamic, versatile and carefree in ways that few other plants can match. Widely known as the stars of autumn with their showy, long-lasting plumes, they can provide almost year-round interest. These grasses not only bring structure to the landscape, but sound and movement as well. Ornamental grasses are enjoying a wave of popularity as today's gardeners discover their many outstanding qualities. So, if you are looking for a plant that can hold its own in any landscape, ornamental grasses are well worth considering.
Ornamental grasses usually perform unfailingly. Many are native to U.S. soils, so they need no special treatment. Remarkably resilient and able to tolerate Virginia's hot and often dry summers to the point of drought, once established they require a minimal amount of care. Easy to grow, they need little pruning during the growing season and have virtually no disease or pest problems. Even deer tend to avoid them. Not surprisingly then, they are a top choice among homeowners with a penchant for low maintenance landscapes.
Nothing brightens up a lightly shaded border like golden hakone grass. Here, from bottom right it is interplanted with bright blue forget-me-nots and the silvery leaves of lamb's ears. Beyond the second clump of hakone grass is purple 'Nimbus' geranium. (Photo by Saxon Holt.)
Besides being dependable, grasses are amazingly versatile and will fit seamlessly into either a naturalized or a more manicured design. Ornamental grasses add structure and drama to borders and beds and come in a host of shapes, from columnar to mounding; sizes, from towering to diminutive; and many different textures. A breeze can set their flowing forms swaying, filling the garden with a soft rustling sound.
Ornamental grasses, including grass-like plants, can be annuals or perennials. They grow either in a neat clump, or, as is the case with ribbongrass and many bamboos, by underground stems, often spreading aggressively and becoming invasive. The majority of ornamental grasses are sun lovers, but others, such as sedges and Hakone grass, work best in a moist, shady spot.
Ornamental grasses can be fast growers. They can shoot up much like Jack's beanstalk in the spring, reaching their full height in mere weeks. They add volume and depth to the summer garden with their dense foliage in greens and blues, reds and burgundies, and stunning variegated patterns, providing a backdrop to other perennials and long blooming annuals. In fall, they are ready to take center stage when summer-blooming flowers are on the wane. Their spectacular flower stalks yield to dramatic, feathery plumes and seedpods in muted reds and pinks, beiges and whites, that seem to shimmer in the bright sun. When cold temperatures arrive, they age gracefully to various shades of blended yellows, tans, beiges and browns.
Fountain grass in full bloom lends a light and airy accent that not only enhances the other colors
and textures in this garden bed but also draws the eye through it.
(Photo courtesy of Hidden Lane Landscaping, Herndon, VA.)
If you want to add eye-popping color to your perennial garden, try bright red Japanese blood grass. It makes a bold statement when contrasted with the silvery green 'Powis Castle' artemisia, behind and right, and the white flowered gaura, directly behind. (Photo by Saxon Holt.)
By providing privacy for this lakeside patio, serving as a backdrop for lower growing plants and hiding a timber wall, miscanthus does triple duty in this landscape. (Photo courtesy of Hidden Lane Landscaping.)
Regardless of the season, ornamental grasses have great curb appeal. They can be used to provide a contrast of color, an accent or focal point, or a backdrop for other plants in the garden. Try Japanese blood grass to add stunning color to a border. Small, clump-forming grasses, such as dwarf fountain grass, can provide garden accents. Larger types, like miscanthus or pampas, can work either as an accent plant or provide structure for lower growing plants in a flowerbed.
Ornamental grasses can take on other duties as well. When planted en masse or combined with evergreens, tall grasses, like miscanthus and feather reed grass, can create privacy, screen out undesirable views or shape a special nook in the garden. They will readily soften a fence or a vertical wall of your home, helping it blend into the surrounding landscape. At the front of a border, lower growing grasses, such as blue fescue, can provide a flowing bridge between shrubs and perennials and a lawn beyond. Low growing grasses also look great lining a pathway.
Grasses thrive in difficult areas such as steep slopes or poor soils. Try low growing blue moor grass or oriental fountain grass instead of lawn grasses for a practical and attractive ground cover. Those with limited space could experiment with one dramatic accent grass or mass smaller ones with interesting leaves, flowers or seed heads instead.
If you like to plant in pots, planters and window boxes, ornamental grasses offer many options for sun or shade. This is the place to try annual grasses, such as purple fountain grass or the beautiful (but invasive) golden bamboo. And if you want to dress up a water garden, turn to grasses such as horsetail or umbrella plant.
So if you haven't incorporated ornamental grasses into your landscape, what are you waiting for? Surely there's at least one that will work perfectly for you.
A closer look at the fountain grass (Photo courtesy of Hidden Lane Landscaping.)
(From Virginia Gardener Volume 2005 Issue May.)


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As we look back on 2012, many small-business owners operated under uncertainty.
From potential new tax hikes in 2013 to rising health-care costs beginning in 2014, many entrepreneurs postponed key hiring and spending decisions on big-ticket items. Main Street—a traditional driver of new jobs and economic recovery—was at a standstill, and in some cases deteriorated.
Even after the November presidential race, anxiety about tax hikes and government spending cuts left many small companies paralyzed and wondering, "So what's actually changed?" So far not much. Congress remained locked in a stalemate about the pending "fiscal cliff."
"Since October, my business has dropped off 80 percent and I attribute that directly to the 'fiscal cliff' discussion and the economy," said Charlie Arnold a month ago. He has been running a power-washing business in Lewes, Delaware for 13 years. (Read more: Amid 'Fiscal Cliff' Stalemate, Main Street Deteriorates)
As the government deadlock drags on, we look back at some of the key issues faced by small-business owners, entrepreneurs and younger workers. Lending remained tight in 2012, while technology—from the proliferation of social media to questions about online deal websites such as Groupon—continued to transform upstarts.
(Read more: Five Key Issues Facing Small Business in 2013)


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France: U.K. vote does not change will to act on Syria
PARIS (AP) — French President Francois Hollande expressed willingness Friday to push ahead with plans to strike Syria for allegedly using chemical weapons despite the British parliament's rejection of military action. Washington also was preparing for the possibility of a strike against the Damascus regime within days.
"The chemical massacre of Damascus cannot and must not remain unpunished," Hollande said in an interview with the newspaper Le Monde, published Friday, as U.N. experts in Damascus began what is expected to be the last day of their probe into the alleged attack.
The French president reiterated that France wants a "proportional and firm action." When asked about the type of intervention, however, he said "all options are on the table."
Hollande suggested that action could even come ahead of Wednesday's extraordinary session of the French Parliament, called to discuss the Syria situation; lawmakers' approval is not needed for Hollande to order military action.
"I will not take a decision before having all the elements that would justify it," he told Le Monde. However, noting that he had convened parliament, he added: "And if I have (already) committed France, the government will inform (lawmakers) of the means and objectives."
The British parliament voted late Thursday against military action in Syria, whittling down the core of the planned coalition to the United States and France. Italy and Germany have said they won't take part in any military action.
The British 'no' vote raised questions about France's participation — and ratcheted up pressure on U.S. President Barack Obama, who is also facing domestic skepticism about military intervention in Syria.
Amid the resistance, the U.S. administration shared intelligence with lawmakers Thursday aimed at convincing them the Syrian government used chemical weapons against its people and must be punished.
Obama appeared undeterred by the difficulties forming an international coalition, and advisers said he would be willing to retaliate against Syria on his own.
"The president of the United States is elected with the duty to protect the national security interests in the United States of America," said White House spokesman Josh Earnest.
France has more intimate ties to Syria, having once ruled the country; it also has warplanes and strategic interest in the region. Paris has embraced the Syrian opposition and urged a firm response against Assad over the purported Aug. 21 chemical weapons attack outside Damascus. But Hollande appears to be facing increasing political and public resistance against moving against Syria quickly.
Hollande said that France is among the few nations capable of "inflicting a sanction by the appropriate means" and "it is ready." But a decision will be made in close coordination with allies, he added.
French military analysts say France's most likely role would be from the air, including use of Scalp cruise missiles that have a range of about 500 kilometers (300 miles), fired from Mirage and Rafale fighter jets. French fighters could likely fly directly from mainland France — much as they did at the start of a military campaign against Islamic radicals in Mali earlier this year — with support from refueling aircraft. France also has six Rafale jets at Al Dhafra air base, near Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates on the Persian Gulf, and 7 Mirage-2000 jets at an air base in Djibouti, on the Red Sea.
Hollande reiterated that any action is aimed at punishing the regime of Bashar Assad, not toppling him.
"I won't talk of war but of a sanction for a monstrous violation of the human person. It will have a dissuasive value," he said.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has warned that military strikes would lead to long-term destabilization of Syria and the region. He has spoken against any use of force without U.N. Security Council approval, which he said would be a "crude violation of international law." Russia has remained a strong ally of Syria throughout the civil war, which has left more than 100,000 people dead.
In Damascus, three U.N. vehicles headed out for more on-site visits on Friday, after an early morning delay.
The U.N. said Thursday that the inspectors would wrap up their investigation Friday and leave Syria the following day. Some of the experts will travel to laboratories in Europe to deliver the material they've collected this week during trips to the Damascus suburbs purportedly hit by toxic gas.
The mandate of the U.N. team is to determine whether chemical agents were used in the attack — not who was responsible. But the U.N. has suggested that evidence collected by investigators — including biological samples and interviews — might give an indication of who was behind the attack.
Hollande said that a chemical attack is "an established fact ... and the question is to know who are the authors of this frightening act." But he reiterated what France has said for several days, that Paris has a "range of indices which point to the responsibility of the regime."
Angela Charlton in Paris and Albert Aji in Damascus, Syria, contributed to this report.
Follow Ganley on Twitter at: https://twitter.com/Elaine_Ganley


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In this issue:Israeli Journalist Infiltrates Tiferet Yeshua Congregation | What Tehiya didn't Say About Us!United we Stand...and Grow Stronger! | New Exposure for Israel's Messianic Jewish Community
Monthly Report: September 2008Elul - Tishrey 5768
The headline reads, "Baptizing Cult". The darkened pict ure is meant to portray us as weird and secretive.
By Shira Sorko-Ram
Last May, an Israeli journalist was handed a flyer in Tel Aviv about Yeshua the Messiah of Israel. Jews for Jesus conducted a major campaign with many Israelis and foreign volunteers spreading out across the country to give Israelis a chance to ask questions about faith in Yeshua.
Today, the number of Israeli Messianic Jews is increasing at a much faster rate than ever before. In fact, many favorable articles have been written at face value concerning the presence and lives of the Messianic Community in Israel. (See Last Article)
With that in mind, their journalist Tehiya Barak set off with a goal to infiltrate a Messianic Jewish congregation in Tel Aviv. She picked our congregation, Tiferet Yeshua.
She arrived while Ari and I were in Germany, and began making friends among the congregation's young people. She attended a number of times until a few days ago, when Ari received a rather unpleasant phone call from one of the editors at Yediot. He began by accusing us of "converting to Christianity" under-age kids without their parent's permission - illegal in Israel.
Three days later, (on 08.08.08), a vicious, twisted article of nine solid pages (24 type-written pages) came out in their weekend magazine which has very wide coverage. The article was designed to scare the public - to prove that Messianic Jews are dangerous, law-breaking, mystical misfits.
This newspaper uses the same hate-filled rhetoric that Hamas uses against the Jewish people, that anti-Semites use against Jews. It caricaturizes the believers in a way that makes us appear all-bad with no redeeming value.
So as Ari and I began our one week Maoz business trip and two week vacation in Germany this summer, the journalist attended her first service at Tiferet Yeshua. She was to continue her visits until the first week of August.
The tabloid cover showed a leader in our congregation praying for a young lady. Blazened across the darkened, eerie greenish picture (though taken in broad daylight) was the title "The Baptizing Cult." We cannot reprint the whole nine pages, but here are excerpts from her article which shecalled "The Messianic Code" (Like the Bible Code).
Newspaper journalist (center) posing as a Messianic Jewish believer. She brought a "friend" along who took this picture for her newspaper.
May 25th: Penetrating the Messianic CultMy name is Tehiya Barak [tehiya means "resurrection"], a journalist, 28 years old, a Jew. During the past two and a half months I wore different clothing. A flyer, one of thousands that were distributed on the streets of Israel in the framework of a campaign run by "Jews for Jesus" sent me on a long-term journalistic mission: to infiltrate a Messianic Jewish congregation as a sister among the minyan [group].
Because of her mindset and her mission to write a salacious article, she viewed and described everything as mystical, abnormal, occultish. She wrote about our faith as a ridiculous assortment of rituals and she spells Yeshua's name as "Yeshu", the way non-believers pronounce the Messiah's name in Hebrew. (Yeshua's name means "Salvation;" Yeshu means "may his name be obliterated," although when Israelis use this pronunciation, they do not usually know the meaning of this acronym given by rabbinical authorities centuries ago who did not want to call him "Salvation.")
Tehiya continues: For the duration of several long weeks I was thrown into a parallel universe. I turned into a fervent member of an ancient cult that combines a concoction of faiths, symbols, and messages from various religions. Our father Abraham with Yeshu, Old Testament with New Testament, prayer shawl with baptism, Israeli festivals with holy bread [the Lord's supper, editor], and also a threatening satan, who lurks at every corner and appears in the form of man, jellyfish or evil inclination.
Much of Tehiya's article focuses on what she calls "missionary" work, one of the most hated words in the Hebrew language. In the mind of the typical Israeli, a missionary is one who lives to destroy the Jewish nation. How? By converting Jews into non-Jews, thus slowly decreasing the number of Jews in the world. For most Jews, it is still beyond their imagination how a Jew can remain a Jew and believe in Yeshua the Messiah. Only Christians can be a follower of Yeshua, not Jews, in their thinking. So her constant reference to missionary activities are buzz words which cause great concern among the Israeli public.
TOP LEFT: Ari and Youth Leader Motti with new believer as he is immersed in the Mediterranean sea. BOTTOM LEFT: Ari speaking with Tehiya after the immersion. At the time she was posing as a new believer. RIGHT: Yacov Damkani takes his Christian volunteers to sing to the soldiers in army camps.
Furthermore, the Messianic Jews of Israel stress over and over again that Yeshua has given them the power and the guidance to be Jews in every sense of the word, living lives devoted to the God of Israel who created the Jewish people for His own purposes. Yeshua makes it possible to fulfill that purpose. Nevertheless, Tehiya's descriptions are sure to bring fear to the hearts of many. She continues:
My Sabbaths were spent in ecstatic, long prayers, and the rest of the weekdays I dedicated to aggressive missionary activities and internal social events of the congregation. I won their trust, and they - slowly but surely - embraced me into their world.
Little by little a Messianic-spiritual world was exposed to me, which at its core lies a closed [closed?? That is an interesting observation! editor] and embracing congregation, at times mesmerizing, which forms a warm and sheltering home with not so few people who found it difficult to find their place in Israeli society - and a moment before they were crushed in its margins, found refuge in the bosom of Yeshu; despairing youth who had descended into crime, ultra-Orthodox Jews who left their way and suffered alienation by their families, lone soldiers, immigrants, foreign workers.
Tehiya relates that one of the Jews for Jesus members "connects me to a congregation, 'Tiferet Yeshua' in southern Tel Aviv that belongs to the 'body of Messiah.' The Messianic cults have been active in Israel since the last century and include thousands. Even though the Messianics view themselves as Jews, experts define them as a cult from the Christian world. They, from their side, maintain close connections with Christian congregations worldwide.
Tehiya was told by her Jews for Jesus friend: "this is a large congregation, with a lot of young people and a lot of the Holy Spirit. I am certain that you will be happy there." And so, within a moment, my journey begins, which by its end I am sentenced to find myself confused and divided - Judas Iscariot woman that I am.
Tehiya describes her first impressions of the Sabbath service at Tiferet Yeshua Congregation:
May 31st: To come apart in religious ecstasy"Welcome, Yeshua, we invite you to come." I enter into the prayer hall as this song is sung in a powerful voice. On the stage there is a keyboardist, a guitarist, three singers, a trumpeter and a drummer. The Messianics are standing on their feet; some of them are dancing. Everyone is singing in one accord, in religious ecstasy, with burning faith. Their hands are spread out upwards. The words are displayed on a large screen; however, no one needs to refer to them.
A ll this occurs at the outskirts of the industrial area of southern Tel Aviv. The entrance is in between two peeling buildings. On the entrance floor is a small kiosk and adjacent to that is a gas station. In the area, such is told to me by one of the brothers, there is also a casino and other dubious businesses.
TOP LEFT: Tehiya passing out flyers as she pretends to be a believer. BOTTOM LEFT: Congregants praying together. RIGHT: Yacov Damkani with soldiers.
However, the staircase is sparkling clean. A few of the youth in the congregation come early in the morning every Saturday, and sweep the filth - cigarettes, syringes, hard liquor bottles. At one stage, when passersby and members of an ultra-Orthodox organization harassed the Messianics, there was a security guard at the entrance. A t present day, for discretion purposes, there is not even a sign.
When one enters, the filth disappears from sight. From the sparkling marble floor up to the ceiling, everything points to prestige. The congregation rents the second and third floors of the building.
I … do not know where to look first. At the elderly believer who is dancing with great fervor, at the singer who breaks down in the middle of the song in front of all to see weeping bitterly, or at the barefooted, long haired youth who is closing his eyes and singing in somewhat of a sensual intoxication. "I want to lie at your feet, Yeshua," implores the singer. "Allow us to feel You."
The spiritual shepherd of the congregation, Ari Sorko-Ram, a veteran immigrant from the U.S.A., is presently abroad. In his absence Motti, his 'spiritual' son, takes front stage. He is dressed in jeans and sneakers, upon his cheek is a microphone. "Yeshua, open our eyes so that we may see You, and our ears so that we may hear You. Allow us to feel You, here, now, in this room," he calls with shut eyes.
Tehiya adds: Over the course of my mission, I meet quite a number of Messianic soldiers, some of whom arrive at the congregation meeting in their uniforms.
Tehiya tells how she advanced her deception, sitting in our fellowship room after our Sabbath meeting, talking to evangelist Yacov Damkani.
TOP: A young man, once himself a drug addict, has opened a home in downtown Tel Aviv for addictted prostitutes. The pictures on the floor are of the prostitutes and are points of prayer. BOTTOM: Believers talking to soldiers.
For several weeks I have been attending the Messianic congregation as one of the believers. I am in command of the secrets of prayer, am present at the social events, am in good contact with most of the brothers. "To be saved, to be evangelized, God has placed a message on my heart," have become a part of my vocabulary. I proved my dedication; I won the trust of the members. Now I want to join the secret missionary assignments reserved for the faithful.
…At the conclusion of the Sabbath prayer, I sat opposite [Yacov Damkani] on a couch in the congregation of Messianic Jews named, "Tiferet Yeshua" in Tel Aviv, asking with a shaky voice to join the most important and spiritual mission in the eyes of believers in the cult: evangelism of Yeshu throughout Israel…
Damkani hesitates. He fixes an extended look at me, penetrating, and then proceeds with a series of questions.
Tehiya then narrarates her madeup story to Damkani. She adds, "It is not every day that a young Israeli requests to join the mission field, considered horrendous in the eyes of most residents of the State of Israel. I find it hard to breathe under his gaze: what will happen if my cover story should collapse?"
She emphasizes again and again our outreach to the lost and she portrays it in a most negative way.
One cannot separate the compassion of the congregation from their objective: the spreading of the faith, under every condition, among as many people as possible. The Messianic representatives reach neglected corners, at times unseen, to which the Israeli society does not bother to direct its gaze: they distribute foodstuffs to the poor, to terror victims and Holocaust survivors, who do not know what they will eat tomorrow, and they speak to them about Yeshu; they wrap in love and holy songs drug addicted prostitutes in a shelter for the needy which they established in the heart of Tel Aviv; diminish the loneliness of soldiers in training fields, with the help of songs, candies, literature, and volunteers from abroad. The possibility of adding new people to the faith increases amazingly after you show them kindness.
Tehiya talks about the lifestyle of the young believers:
In the event that you are a member in the Messianic cult, your daily routine is full. Long prayer times, gatherings that continue long into the night, communal 'praise' songs, picnics, ball games on the beach.
The meeting takes place on the third floor of the building, in a room that belongs to the youth of the congregation. On the red wall appear large letters that the youth wrote: "Thank you, Lord Yeshua."
The Messianics are standing on their feet, some of them are dancing. Everyone is singing in one accord, in religious ecstasy. Their hands are spread out upwards. All of a sudden the singer bursts into tears and cries, "I want to lie at your feet, Yeshua!"
Tehiya then talks about the persecution of the believers in Israel. She, of course, ignores the fact that articles such as hers can cause fanatical Orthodox Jews to target the believers with violence. Thank God, there is a growing number of fearless believers, soldiers, young people, elderly people, lawyers, doctors, scientists, and simple beautiful citizens of Israel who are ready to face the persecution that comes with serving the One who gave His all to us. Here is her summary of some of the incidents of persecution that have taken place lately:
TOP: Another prayer meeting at Tiferet Yeshua
These days are not easy for the Messianic Jews. From time immemorial the believers have suffered harassment, however, during the past year, they have a growing sense that the satanic circle is closing in on them and getting stronger.
During this past March, an explosion caused severe injury to the son of a Messianic family in Ariel; two months thereafter, in a large bonfire, recorded on photographs which shocked many, New Testament books that were distributed by Messianic Jews were burned in Or Yehuda [translates Light of Judah]; In the meantime, the call to cancel the traditional, annual Bible Quiz [on Israel's day of Independence] was on account of the participation of a young Messianic girl. [See last article].
At the end of the article, the editor who called Ari a couple of days before it went to press, quoted three sentences from their telephone conversation - in order, I am sure the editor thought - to make the article "fair and balanced." This is the quote:
The Messianic Jews: We are Jews and our activities are legal. Ari Sorko-Ram, the spiritual leader: "We are Jews who believe in biblical Judaism; it is the right of every Jew to explain his Judaism. We do this among acquaintances, friends, family, and whoever wants to know. We are permitted by law to explain our faith.
We cannot end this article without stating our earnest desire to draw closer to our Lord and receive divine discernment concerning those who join our congregation. In no way do we wish to be suspicious of newcomers, for that is what the enemy would want. But we do ask from our Heavenly Father wisdom to stand against the wiles of those who are working to harm and persecute the Body of Messiah in Israel. Your prayers for us and all of the Messianic leaders of Israel will make a difference.
An added column written by Danit Keren, general manager of the Israel Center for Cult Victims, who adds a few paragraphs with the purpose of warning people to flee from Messianic Jews:
"The members of the congregation undergo tremendous pressure to participate in as many activities and meetings as possible, while neglecting everything that is outside of the faith: family, friends, work and studies, for the reason that they 'belong to this dark world' and to 'satan's control.' Since the belief in satan is so strong and tangible in the life of a believer, there is a great fear of leaving." [These paragraphs may be true in reference to cults, but certainly have no accuracy concerning Israel's Messianic community, editor.]
Keren continues: "A Messianic believer is not allowed to marry someone who is not a believer. There is a prohibition among the community members to study material that denies the Messianic faith, since this is within the realms of a stumbling-block and may raise heretical thoughts, such as Darwinist scientific books, among others. There is also a very strong mystical element, and a certain contempt towards education, science and logic."
"Treating homosexuality as a serious disease which one needs to be cured from, making strange sounds, seeing hallucinations and visions, as well as speaking in tongues (trance-gibberish speaking) - constitute a characteristic of development/growth of the faith of a community member and raises their position."
Our reply is that our congregants are normal, wonderful believers, part of the family of God that is world-wide. Our theology is Biblically based, we would say, normal, middle of the road. But the way the newspaper describes us, (cult like) as those who make it very difficult to leave the congregation, gives the reader the impression of a bonafide cult. In fact, all who are believers know that when a Jewish person comes to the faith, the leaders, throughout the land, encourage and instruct these young believers to strengthen their ties with their families and to be exemplary in their work place and/or in their studies.
Back to Top
Although Messianic Jews are far from perfect, the accepted theological base for our faith is that without love we are but sounding brass and a clanging cymbal.
On the other hand, the state religion of Israel, Orthodox Judaism, teaches its adherents to love those who are similar in religion and to hate those who are different.
Lying, cheating, stealing and violent behavior is not acceptable to any congregation of Messianic Jews and those who are found doing so are seen as outside the fold.
In Orthodoxy, lying, cheating, stealing and violent behavior are acceptable if the goal is "worthy."
One does not need to be a statistical genius to point out that Messianic Jews have the lowest crime rate of any community in Israel, including all other religious groups. A moral lifestyle is central to a Messianic believer.
Messianic Jews are encouraged to study at universities or learn a profession and work for a living and pay taxes.
A majority of ultra-Orthodox men do not work and do not pay taxes. On the contrary, their politicians agree to join government coalitions mainly in return for handouts from the taxpayer's pocket to support their own non-working population.
Messianic Jews serve with pride in the Israeli Defense Forces, knowing we have a duty to protect our nation.
Ultra-Orthodox refuse to serve in the army, and some branches even refuse to recognize the legitimacy of the government of Israel, although willing to take government grants.
In a nation that suffers from severe corruption in the government, ultra-Orthodox politicians headed up by rabbinical authorities have been role models of corruption in every area of public and governmental service.
Think of it! In Israel, drug dealers, mafia, pimps, criminals and perverts are accepted as Jews. Gurus, witches and transvestites are part of the Jewish people.
But Messianic Jews, whose contribution to society is almost always positive, are despised and rejected by the establishment, and told they are not Jews.
Messianic Jews pray for their enemies.
The Orthodox curse their enemies.
Messianic Jews are being continuously persecuted, especially in Beersheva and Arad, and the police are doing nothing. In fact, after five months, the police have not even talked to the witnesses that have agreed to testify in behalf of Ami Ortiz, the youth who was bombed by ultra-Orthodox terrorists in Ariel because his father David is a Messianic pastor.
As one honest ultra-Orthodox man told David: "Mohammed doesn't bother us. Buddha and Confucius do not bother us. No other religion really bothers us. But Yeshua bothers us. In fact he bothers us so much that one of our own was ready to kill you and your family."
We have been greatly encouraged by the phone calls and messages of support we have received from leaders and pastors of the Messianic community in Israel. It is just one more proof that theMessianic Jews of Israel are growing in number, in confidence and in love.
Dear Brothers,
I would like to take a moment to encourage our brothers from Tiferet Yeshua who were highlighted in the recent Yediot ar ticle I just now read.
Of course the article was very negative, and probably you could have had more discernment, and we all need to learn from this kind of thing.
However, I was very encouraged to read about your congregation's activities, the way you are reaching out to Israelis, the way you are following up on those that visit, your commitment to fasting and prayer and the devotion you have to caring for the poor and needy. In many ways I saw this ar ticle to be a powerful testimony to Yeshua, in spite of the harmful and destructive motives from which it was written.
The thing about persecutions is that it groups us all together. Persecution is no respecter of persons. We are all in it together, whether we like it or not.
Today I was approached by a friend of mine about the article who knows that I am a follower of Yeshua.
Because he knows us quite well he understood that much of what was written was intentionally put in a negative light. I told him that though I don'talways agree with what Damkani, Sorko-Ram or other Messianics always do, that I was very proud of the way they are standing up for what they believe.
And I want to say that to you as well, my brothers. I am proud to stand with you and your congregation, even though it may mean suffering or loss for the sake of my Messiah.
God bless you,
David Lazarus Senior Pastor Beit Immanuel Jaffa
The recent Yediot article has sparked some very good discussion with our neighbors, close friends, and family members.
We love Ari, Shira and family - and Yacov. It is a great privilege to stand with them. 'Chazak v'Amatz'!! [Be strong and courageous!] Glory be to God!
Love and blessings,
Richard 'Ayal' and Yardena Frieden Founder/Director Jerusalem Street Production/JAMM
Brothers and Sisters,
I also want to express my solidarity with the Tiferet Yeshua congregation who have recently been the target of a ver y negative newspaper ar ticle in the Yediot.
Like David Lazar us, we had non-believing friends that called us to express their support and sadness that the article was so obviouslyand intentionally negative. I see this as par t of a national strategy by those that hate us and our beliefs and is an attempt to influence theBeer sheva court case.
I do suspect that it will have the effect of creating curiosity and you will see people drawn to the Lord and his people.
Stand strong and peace be with you,
Evan Thomas Pastor Beit Asaph Netanya
As the Messianic movement grows in Israel with many fine examples of strong believers who are healthy active citizens of Israel, there has also been favorable media concerning believers. Our friends Martin and Norma have written about this fairly new phenomenon in Israel. Ari & Shira
By Martin and Norma Sarvis
"Now, Lord, look on their threats, and grant to Your servants that with all boldness they may speak Your word, by stretching out Your hand to heal, and that signs and wonders may be done through the name of Your holy Servant Yeshua" (Acts 4:29-30).
Not long ago the English language Jerusalem Post carried a story on its front page, "Messianic Jews to Protest 'Discriminatory' Immigration Policies". The article focused on the concerns of a visiting group of 300 members of a large union of Messianic Jews in the United States. Within the same paper was an entirely separate article entitled, "Local Messianic Jews Say They Face Increasing Fear of Attack". This article was bordered, highlighted in a different color, and bore a picture of Ami Ortiz, the young Jewish believer terribly wounded when opening a booby-trapped gift basket left on his doorstep during the Feast of Purim.
One remarkable thing about these headlines is the presence within them of the words "Messianic Jews". This name (in its Hebrew form, Yehudim Meshihim) within the past few months has also begun appearing in the mainstream Hebrew-language press. Messianic Jews are Jews by birth who believe that Yeshua/Jesus is the promised Messiah, but who do not believe that their faith in His saving work cancels out their inheritance as descendants of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.
Until recently, their presence as an entity within Israel was considered negligible if at all. Most Israelis had never heard of them—equating Christianity with Gentiles and Roman Catholicism. The highly regarded and in many ways enlightening book, The Israelis, by Donna Rosenthal (2005, paperback updated edition) bears no listing of "Messianic Jews" in its index, nor is there mention of them in the chapter, "The Christians: Uneasy in the Land of Jesus." Part of this isundoubtedly related to the fact that Israeli Jews, religious or secular, are taught from childhood that it is impossible to be a Jew and to believe in Jesus.
Bat-El Levi, a 11th grader Messianic Jew, won this year's National Bible Quiz for state schools and was one of four finalists from Israel competing for the International Bible Quiz Championship on Independence Day.
Jews may be Orthodox, or secular or into New Age or most anything else—still they remain Jews and are allowed citizenship under the Law of Return. But believing in Yeshua supposedlycuts one off from the faith and even the race of the Fathers. And so, for the past thirty years the presence of a Messianic Jewish community here within Israel has gone largely ignored.
When mentioned at all in the media, there has been a strong reluctance to include the word "Jew" in any title given to these people, or to use the Hebrew name "Yeshua" to describe theLord they serve. But recently this has begun to change—and it's doing so quickly.
In several newspaper articles of recent weeks, Messianics have actually been allowed to describe their beliefs, in some cases without the usual "equal time" comments of an "anti-missionary" representative from the ultra-Orthodox community.
New exposure is also being made during the past summer on television talk shows and in the entertainment arena. On a recent Friday, a Jewish believer was interviewed on Channel 2's "Good Morning Israel" show. The evening of the same day the rival Channel 1 carried a segment on the family of the young man injured in the Purim bombing. Part of the program took place in the lad's bedroom, his mother sitting next to him singing softly in Hebrew over him the words of Romans 8—"I am persuaded that neither life nor death…shall separate me from the love of God which is in Messiah Yeshua our Lord— Yeshua is Lord!"
It was one thing when Messianic Jews were seen as a tiny fringe group or "cult", made up mostly of new immigrants. Now they appear to be in an almost phenomenal way rising into the public awareness as something integral within the culture, made up of thousands, many of whom are native "sabra" Israelis. (Even such a negative article in Yediot Aharonot raises awareness!)
Of course, the evil one is not taking this "exposure" lying down; the anti-Messiah (i.e. anti-Christ) spirit which operates powerfully in the religious community appears to be manifesting itself in a growing campaign of acts to intimidate Jewish believers and to foment adverse discriminationagainst them. In some cases, the new media coverage is causing such tactics to backfire.
An assistant mayor of a city in which New Covenants (New Testaments) had been recently disseminated, in an act ironically and alarmingly reminiscent of scenes perpetrated by the Nazis70 years ago, organized a "book burning" in which volunteers went door to door gathering the materials for the bonfire. This resulted, however, in an outcry regarding religious freedom in Israel, with one of the popular newspapers featuring a color spread on the incident.
An attempt during the nation's celebration of our 60th year of independence by the Orthodox to disqualify a Messianic Jewish teenager from the annual International Bible Quiz for Jewish youth was rejected, and the incident was sympathetically covered in the media.
There has always been oppression by elements within the religious Jewish community of modern Israel against Jewish believers—in some cases accompanied by violence. With this oppression appearing to have now advanced into the area of attempts to maim or murder, there is a serious question as to what this portends for the future.
Even with the growing media exposure and coverage mentioned above, incidents appear to be on the increase, not always making it into the news. Nor is the news coverage itself always resulting in blessing. We spoke with a young pastor recently who was ready to "sign" on a new meeting place for his congregation. The owner was aware it would be an organization of Jewish believers in Yeshua, but assured him that it made no difference.
Then he read the articles about the bombing in Ariel, with the strong implication that it had been perpetrated by Orthodox Jews against Messianic Jews, and he backed down—the fear that the presence of Messianics might bring similar acts of violence adversely affecting businesses in his area was too great.
Lately, leaflets appeared in a southern-Jerusalem neighborhood with pictures of several Messianic pastors, and bearing in Hebrew the words, "These people are members of a cult called "Messianic Jews". The Supreme Court ruled regarding this cult that 'Judaism vomited them out" BEWARE OF THEM !!!" This kind of harrassment is common enough but these leaflets also included the home addresses beneath the pictures of each of the Believers.
* That accurate testimony regarding the existence of Messianic Jews in Israel and of their beliefs would continue to be released through the Israeli media.
* That the believing Jewish community in Israel would continue like their Master "increasing in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men" (Luke 2:52).
* That Israeli believers in Yeshua would permeate the marketplace, the arts, the military, and the government.
* For love, courage, endurance and vision for those who are beginning to experience persecution for their faith.
* For special protection for those targeted by satan, that angels would keep violence from coming to their doors. That they would move in strong spiritual discernment regarding those who might knock on their doors.
* That God will work in the hearts of those bound up in traditional religion, using the very plans of the enemy to awaken a curiosity which might lead them to the Truth. We know former ultra-Orthodox who have come to faith because they had questions which their rabbis couldn't answer—and they contacted those which their media had warned them to stay away from. It is interesting that even the threats have begun to use the words "Messianic Jew"—implying that these really are Jews who are choosing to follow Yeshua as Messiah and Savior!
Martin and Norma Sarvis serve on leadership of Succat Hallel, a 24/7 worship-intercession ministry in Jerusalem.
This year's Jewish New Year begins on the evening of September 29.
We have a beautiful Jewish calendar for you, our partner with Maoz Israel Ministries and Congregation Tiferet Yeshua. The 16-month calendar (September 2008 - December 2009) has simply gorgeous paintings by famous Messianic Israeli artist, Pamela Suran.
Be sure to ask for your copy when you partner with Maoz by giving a gift of $35 or more this month to:
Maoz Israel Ministries | istandwithisrael | Hebrew BooksCongregation Tiferet Yeshua | Coffee House Outreach Media Projects | Hebrew New Testament | Burkina Faso Arab Congregations | Persecuted Believers
September 2008
Dear Maoz Partner,
As you can see, things are heating up in Israel. More interest. More exposure. More persecution. More seekers. More people coming to faith.
The Gospel is taking root in Israel. The Messianic movement is steadily making progress in the large cities, the medium-size cities, in villages, farms and kibbutzim.
The leaders are moving toward more unity. We are getting together to discuss how to stand against such organizations as Yad L'achim that are turning violent against the Messianic Jews.
Believers are bolder than ever, and our growing congregations give individual believers more confidence to witness and to introduce friends to our community.
After this Yediot newspaper article came out, we received encouraging phone calls and emails from all over the country. Here is one from a good friend whose name we will not publish because of his sensitive job in Jerusalem.
Dear Ari and Shira,
This is a classic case of God already working for good what the enemy intended for evil. There would have never been an article like this if interest in the true identity of Messianic Jews were not growing significantly.
Now this interest will grow even more and the cult allegations will be exposed for what they are. No doubt this has been a very agonizing experience for you. But I am convinced in my spirit that the Lord is going to do something great through it and that down the road, you and Tiferet Yeshua will be fully vindicated.
I still remember a vivid dream from two years ago in which God was using you, Ari, to enlarge the path for Jews to be saved. May your gifts and calling be fully realized in the days to come!
Now our job is to keep moving forward. To not let up for a single minute, but to look to God for effective and better ways to bring the message of GOOD NEWS to a nation that sees little hope on the horizon.
As always, the army of the Lord must work in unison - linked together.
Those who are called to stand on the front lines. Those who are called to pray, and those who are called to financially support what God is doing in the Land of Israel—exactly as He promised to do.
Against all odds, against every type of scheme that satan has used over the generations to keep God's chosen people from returning to Him, the evil one is still losing. He is furious, but he is losing. And by God's mighty grace, power, plan and love, we are winning—one heart, one soul ata time.
Our team - you and all of us called to serve in Israel - cannot be stopped. No newspaper article, no slander, no lies, no circumstances, no temporary setbacks can stop God's truth from going forward in Israel. Together, we are unshakeable!
We love being on the team with you. We cannot win and finish the race without you and we are grateful you are on the team. Together, we will win!
For the salvation of Israel,
Ari & Shira Sorko-Ram
P.S. Be sure to request your beautiful 16 month Messianic calendar this month! It's yours for your gift of $35 or more for the salvation of Israel.
Maoz Israel Ministries | istandwithisraelHebrew Books | Congregation Tiferet Yeshua


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Warriors and Rhinos set for Man of Steel Challenge
Wigan Warriors, Leeds Rhinos, Warner Bros. Home Entertainment, ISC Sport and Sky Sports have partnered for the ultimate display of human ability. Fans of Super League are used to being amazed by the supreme skills of the players on show but when Wigan clash with Leeds on Thursday 5th September at DW Stadium live on Sky Sports 2, both teams will bear the mark of the Man of SteelTM
The two teams will feature the famous Superman logo on the front of their shirts to celebrate the release of Man of SteelTM which will be available on Blu-ray 3DTM, Blu-ray, DVD from 2nd December and can be pre-ordered now. Man of SteelTM will also be available in the Sky Store from December..
The game kicks off the final round of games in the Super League regular season, a week ahead of the start of the play offs and the race to Old Trafford for the Grand Final to see who will be crowned Champions, with all the play off games live and exclusive on Sky Sports. Leeds have won five of the last six titles with only Wigan in 2010 breaking their grip on the Super League title.
Leeds and Wigan have met twice already this season, with the Champions taking the spoils at Headingley Carnegie back in March and Wigan snatching victory in a close contest at Manchester City's Etihad Stadium at the conclusion of the Magic Weekend in May.
The title Man of Steel has long been associated with Rugby League, and has a strong tradition within both Wigan and Leeds. The supreme player of the Super League each season is awarded the Man of Steel award, an honour that dates back to 1977 when Leeds captain David Ward won the inaugural title for the first time. Since then Wigan players have been crowned the game's ultimate player on more occasions than any other club with eleven. Wigan boast two Man of Steel winners in their side in Pat Richards and reigning holder Sam Tomkins, whilst Leeds star Jamie Peacock lifted the title in 2003. The last Leeds player to win the title was Iestyn Harris back in 1998, who is now on the Wigan coaching staff.
Wigan and Leeds' official apparel partner, ISC Sport, is producing a limited number of replica shirts per club for retail sale. The shirts will be available to pre-order from wiganwarriors.com and therhinos.co.uk from Saturday 31st August.
Fans coming to the match are also encouraged to dress up as their favourite superhero, with prizes for the best costumes. Plus fans should look out for promotions on both club websites to win exclusive Man of SteelTM merchandise in the build up to the big clash.
Tickets are available now for the game priced from £21 for adults and £15 for concessions. These can be booked by calling the Wigan ticket office on 0871 6633552 or the Leeds ticket hotline on 0871 423 13 15 (calls are charged at 10p per minute - calls from mobiles may vary). You can watch Wigan v Leeds on Sky Sports 2 from 8pm on Thursday 5th September.
Man of SteelTM
From Warner Bros. Pictures and Legendary Pictures comes "Man of Steel," starring Henry Cavill in the role of Clark Kent/Kal-El under the direction of Zack Snyder.
The film also stars four-time Oscar® nominee Amy Adams ("The Master," 2012, "The Fighter" 2010, "Doubt" 2008, "Junebug" 2005), Oscar® nominee Michael Shannon ("Revolutionary Road," 2008), Academy Award® winner Kevin Costner ("Dances with Wolves," 1990), Oscar® nominee Diane Lane ("Unfaithful," 2002), Oscar® nominee Laurence Fishburne ("What's Love Got to Do with It," 1993), Antje Traue, Ayelet Zurer, Christopher Meloni, and Academy Award® winner Russell Crowe ("Gladiator," 1992).
"Man of Steel" is produced by Charles Roven, Christopher Nolan, Emma Thomas and Deborah Snyder. The screenplay was written by David S. Goyer from a story by Goyer & Nolan, based upon Superman characters created by Jerry Siegel & Joe Shuster and published by DC Entertainment. Thomas Tull, Lloyd Phillips and Jon Peters served as executive producers.


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Robert is learning to give kisses and they are the sweetest, spittiest little kisses any baby boy ever gave, mmm-mah!
Robert is cutting his eye teeth and at least one molar. Ouch. Last night he finally fell asleep around midnight, I think. Jordan has always been the primary baby cuddler and puts Robert to sleep each night. He is awesome like that. The way Robert has been lately, if he does fall asleep we're afraid to put him down in the bed. That'll probably wake him up, and he hasn't even wanted to nurse to sleep at night lately. I feel bad for him, because clearly the poor little guy is uncomfortable a lot of the time and there's only so much I can do to help.
It's been hard for the rest of us, too. It's hard to juggle baby cuddling, meal preparing, spending time with my girls, homeschooling, cleaning, and other assorted projects I must do. We've been taking a break on the homeschooling. I am sure the girls would love for me to read to them more, without the baby whining and crying at us. Jordan does most of the cooking. The house gets really messy sometimes. Do you know how many dirty dishes and dirty clothes a family of five can generate? It's nuts! By the time I've dealt with all that, I barely have any time or focus to tackle what I call second-tier cleaning jobs. You know, things you say you'll do once the laundry is put away and the floor isn't covered in toys. Stuff like cleaning out the craft (crap) room, going through the kids' outgrown clothes, clearing the dining room table, or seeing if I can find the top of my dresser. I've been thinking about making a list of all these tasks I'd like to do and checking one or two off every week. Maybe then I could eventually work on third-tier stuff like reorganizing and decorating.
By the way, I am still skating! I love and need this in my life right now. Here is what's going on with derby.


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A prosecutor on Tuesday dropped disorderly conduct charges against Paul Simon and his wife, singer Edie Brickell, who were both arrested in April.
A police report says the 48-year-old Brickell and the 72-year-old Simon became physical with each other during an argument inside a cottage on their New Canaan property that houses a recording studio.
Brickell told police he shoved her during the argument, and she slapped him.
The report says Simon suffered a superficial cut to his ear and Brickell, who smelled of alcohol, had a bruise on her wrist.
Both said in court on April 28 that they did not consider the other a threat and no protective order was issued.
In May, the couple's case was continued Friday until June 17.
On Tuesday, prosecutors told a judge they were declining to pursue the case, meaning the charges will be dropped and eventually erased after 13 months.