Brush Fires in the Northeast and the Impact of Climate Change

Brush Fires in the Northeast and the Impact of Climate Change

In recent years, the Northeast United States has experienced an alarming increase in brush fires, a phenomenon traditionally more associated with the arid landscapes of the West. This shift is a stark reminder of the pervasive impacts of climate change, which is altering weather patterns and exacerbating fire risks in regions previously considered less vulnerable.

The Current Situation

The Northeast has seen a significant uptick in brush fires, with recent incidents highlighting the severity of the situation. For instance, wildfires have raged across the region, fueled by warm, dry conditions and strong winds. Cities like New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut have been under red flag warnings, indicating a high risk of fire danger due to low humidity and dry vegetation. Fires in areas such as Brooklyn's Prospect Park and the Palisades in New Jersey have caused significant damage and posed serious threats to both natural habitats and human settlements.

Climate Change and Its Role

Climate change is a critical factor driving the increase in wildfire activity in the Northeast. The region has experienced historically dry conditions, with rainfall deficits exacerbating the dryness of vegetation, making it more susceptible to ignition. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) reported that last month was the second-warmest October on record, with rainfall significantly below average. These conditions create a perfect storm for wildfires, as dry fuels and high temperatures combine to increase fire risk.

How Climate Change Fuels Wildfires

1. Increased Temperatures: Global warming has led to higher average temperatures, which dry out vegetation and soil. This creates more fuel for fires and extends the fire season.

2. Drought Conditions: Prolonged periods of drought, intensified by climate change, reduce the moisture content in plants and trees, making them more flammable.

3. Extreme Weather Events: Climate change is linked to more frequent and severe weather events, such as heatwaves and strong winds, which can ignite and spread fires more rapidly.

4. Longer Fire Seasons: Warmer springs and longer, drier summers extend the fire season, increasing the window of time during which fires can occur.

The Human and Environmental Impact

The impact of these fires is profound. They not only destroy homes and infrastructure but also have severe environmental consequences. Wildfires release large amounts of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, further exacerbating climate change. The loss of vegetation also reduces the land's ability to absorb carbon, creating a vicious cycle of increasing temperatures and more frequent fires.

Moreover, the smoke from wildfires poses significant health risks, particularly for vulnerable populations such as the elderly and those with respiratory conditions. The recent fires in the Northeast have led to deteriorating air quality, prompting health advisories and highlighting the broader public health implications of climate change-induced wildfires.

Mitigation and Adaptation Strategies

Addressing the growing threat of wildfires in the Northeast requires a multifaceted approach:

1. Improved Fire Management: Enhancing fire detection and response capabilities, including the use of technology such as drones and satellite imagery, can help manage and contain fires more effectively.

2. Vegetation Management: Reducing the amount of flammable vegetation through controlled burns and other land management practices can help mitigate fire risk.

3. Climate Action: Reducing greenhouse gas emissions is crucial to slowing the pace of climate change and its associated impacts. This includes transitioning to renewable energy sources, improving energy efficiency, and supporting policies aimed at reducing carbon footprints.

4. Community Preparedness: Educating communities about fire risks and promoting preparedness measures, such as creating defensible spaces around homes and developing evacuation plans, can help reduce the impact of wildfires.

Conclusion

The increasing frequency and severity of brush fires in the Northeast are a clear indication of the far-reaching impacts of climate change. As the region grapples with these new challenges, it is imperative to adopt comprehensive strategies that address both the immediate risks and the underlying causes. By improving fire management, reducing emissions, and enhancing community resilience, we can better protect our environment and communities from the devastating effects of wildfires.

We are seeing weather patterns unlike anything before. It has not rained in months in the northeast!  These conditions have set up what we are seeing now with the massive wildfires taking place in New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut. It will only get worse if we do not act and cut down CO2 emissions. We have to make difficult choices if we are to keep the social order we have built in the world.  

It is clear not many want to heed the warnings despite seeing the effects of global warming taking hold on the climate.  Recently, I posted similar words to those on Instagram and X (formerly known as Twitter) under posts by the NYPD showcasing the arrival of the massive tree that will be displayed at Rockefeller Center for the holidays:

They need to start using an artificial one. Cutting down trees is contributing to the climate change. The northeast is already seeing the brush fires. According to the Arbor Day Foundation, in one year a mature tree will absorb more than 48 pounds of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and release oxygen in exchange.

Almost immediately, I was met with ridiculous trolls posting jabs, insults, and mockery to the comment. It is extremely disturbing to see how ignorant people really are and how blind they are to reality.  Until the fires reach their doorstep or the waters in their homes, they will not listen.  We cannot wait until this happens.   Both Pope Benedict XVI and Pope Francis have been ahead of this situation commenting on its importance and even writing on them. Pope Francis even wrote two encyclicals titled Laudato Si calling the world to take action to protect and save the environment.  

: [MSN](https://www.msn.com/en-us/weather/topstories/wildfires-rage-across-the-northeast-as-27-million-people-remain-under-fire-alerts/ar-AA1tNtxo)

: [Gothamist](https://gothamist.com/news/brush-fire-delays-amtrak-northeast-service-in-and-out-of-penn-station)

: [CBS News](https://www.cbsnews.com/newyork/news/palisades-new-jersey-wildfire/)

: [NBC News](https://www.nbcnews.com/news/wildfires-rage-northeast-27-million-people-remain-fire-alerts-rcna179456)

: [USA Today](https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2024/11/13/jennings-creek-fire-rapid-spread-conditions-stymie-crews/76263884007/)

: [Nature](https://www.nature.org/en-us/what-we-do/our-priorities/tackle-climate-change/climate-change-stories/extreme-wildfires-are-getting-worse-with-climate-change/)

: [Carbon Brief](https://www.carbonbrief.org/explainer-how-climate-change-is-affecting-wildfires-around-the-world/)

: [EPA](https://www.epa.gov/climate-indicators/climate-change-indicators-wildfires)

: [Climate Council](https://www.climatecouncil.org.au/not-normal-climate-change-bushfire-web/)

New York 4.8 Earthquake

The Earthquake in New York on April 5, 2024

On the morning of April 5, 2024, residents across the Northeast were jolted awake by a rare seismic event. A 4.8 magnitude earthquake, centered in New Jersey, was felt strongly in New York City and as far as Connecticut and Boston. This unexpected tremor, one of the largest to hit the region in the last century, raised immediate concerns about safety and infrastructure resilience.

The quake struck at 10:23 a.m. ET, followed by a series of aftershocks, the strongest being a 4.0 magnitude. Despite the significant magnitude, New York City's skyscrapers, engineered to withstand such events, remained intact, showcasing the city's preparedness for seismic activities. Governor Kathy Hochul and Mayor Eric Adams were promptly briefed and reassured the public that there were no life-threatening situations reported and that the city's infrastructure had held up well.

The earthquake was a stark reminder of the 2011 tremor that similarly shook the East Coast. It reignited discussions on the importance of earthquake preparedness in an area not typically known for seismic activity. The event also highlighted the advancements in construction and engineering that have been made since then, allowing buildings to better absorb the shockwaves of such natural occurrences.

In the aftermath, authorities conducted thorough inspections and assessments to ensure the continued safety and functionality of buildings and infrastructure. The quick response and lack of significant damage were a testament to the effectiveness of the city's emergency protocols and building codes designed to mitigate the impact of earthquakes. There were some building with damage including a public school. 

The event was a wake-up call for many, emphasizing the unpredictability of natural disasters and the importance of readiness, even in regions where certain types of natural events are considered rare. It also served as a reminder of the resilience of New York City and its people, who have historically shown strength and unity in the face of various challenges.

However, New Yorkers and most folks in the north east do not have to worry. The ground under these regions are solid bedrock so it is highly unlikely that an earthquake will develop there. This is why NYC feels the quakes that originate elsewhere. The quakes feel more like a subway train coming into a station or someone rolling a garbage cart in a hallway.  

I felt the earthquake along with my sister when visiting Mt. Sinai hospital. While sitting in a chair, I felt the floor vibrate and slightly move. It felt like someone rolling a large cart down the hall at first, but then it felt too strong to be man-made. Other relatives and friends felt it in the Bronx. Phone lines were briefly jammed as a result of everyone using the networks simultaneously. 

For more detailed information on the earthquake and its effects, you can refer to the comprehensive reports provided by the U.S. Geological Survey and other agencies.

Atheists Sue Animal Shelter Over Blessing

The infamous atheist troll group American Atheists is at it again. This time, they are targeting an animal shelter in Bergen County, New Jersey. The group claims that an animal blessing conducted by Kenneth Reihl, a Lutheran minister who dresses like a Franciscan friar and is part of the  Franciscan Order of the Divine Mercy, violates the first and fourth amendments. They filed a lawsuit in the US District Court in Newark.

American Atheists was notified of the blessing by a local resident who describes herself as a "humanist atheist." A representative of American Atheists Nick Fish claims that government money or taxpayer dollars are being used to promote Christian services.

It will be interesting to see how the court handles this lawsuit. Technically, an animal shelter is not a "government agency" per se as in the case of a public school. Moreover, non-human animals are not considered citizens or persons so a blessing on them would not be unconstitutional because they do not have the rights granted by the Constitution.  I believe this case will be thrown out. It is just an attempt by American Atheists to garner attention in the media.

Note, the Franciscan Order of the Divine Mercy is not affiliated with the Catholic Church or the Order of Friars Minor which is the real Franciscan order founded by St. Francis. Some articles describe Kenneth Reihl and his blessing as "Catholic," this is not accurate. Hopefully, these articles will update their reports with accurate information.

 




Source:

http://www.ibtimes.co.uk/atheists-sue-new-jersey-shelter-over-catholic-blessing-animals-1648272

http://pix11.com/2017/11/21/atheist-group-sues-new-jersey-shelter-over-catholic-blessing-of-animals/

http://www.northjersey.com/story/news/bergen/2017/11/21/animal-shelter-operated-bergen-county-sued-atheists-over-pet-blessings/884146001/

http://dailycaller.com/2017/11/21/atheists-sue-animal-shelter-over-annual-catholic-blessing-of-animals/http://hackensack.dailyvoice.com/news/atheists-file-suit-against-bergen-shelter-over-blessing-of-the-animals/727425/

https://www.rawstory.com/2017/11/atheists-sue-to-halt-annual-blessing-of-the-animals-at-shelter/

http://www.fodmusa.org/index.html

https://www.facebook.com/FranciscanOrderOfTheDivineOrder/

Atheist Vandalizes NJ Catholic Parish

 In a world where atheists are getting more empowered via anonymous online accounts, we are starting to see them become more active in public.

Just last week, an atheist attacked a Baptist community in Texas killing 27, many of them children.  Days before, an atheist vandalized a Catholic Church in Monmouth Beach, New Jersey.  The parish of the Precious Blood has been targeted by an atheist for the past several months.

 In a recent attack, a window was broken, a statue damaged, fecal matter left on the stairway and a marker was used to write "God is FAKE" on the exterior steps of the parish building.

Parishioners are concerned that this is going on. Their worries are even more validated after the attack on the Baptist community by atheist Devin Kelley. All Catholics must be on the lookout in their respective parishes for these demented souls looking to publicly display their diatribe against God and religion in any form.

If you live in Monmouth Beach, NJ and know anything, please contact detective Peter Rechtman at 732-229-1313 or at prechtman@monmouthbeach.org.

We must get this lunatic off of the street and in jail, so he or she can get the help he or she needs.








Source:

https://patch.com/new-jersey/redbank/god-fake-vandal-writes-monmouth-beach-church-police

http://newyork.cbslocal.com/2017/11/07/community-on-edge-after-beloved-monmouth-county-catholic-church-vandalized/

Hero Altar Boy

In recent years, any mention of altar boys and priests has unfortunately, been associated with sexual abuse. However, the recent attack on Bishop Manuel A. Cruz will hopefully change that, see: http://www.sacerdotus.com/2017/01/bishop-attacked-during-mass-in-nj.html.

Bishop Manuel was interviewed by CBS News today. His lips looked a bit swollen with a shiny substance, possibly Vicks rubbing ointment, and he has stitches. He said he is in a lot of pain and believes that the man who attacked him, Charles Miller is mentally ill.

However, he also said something that touched my heart and I think will touch yours. The bishop recalled how the altar boy (pictured here) who was assisting him held him in his arms with such concern and was protecting him. The altar boy, probably thinking the worse (bishop dying), told the bishop, "Don't go father, I'm here" as he cradled the bishop.  The image is just touching.  I posted a screen capture of it below.

This young man truly has Jesus in him. I hope the Lord calls him to the priesthood. We need great souls like this kid. I wish I knew his name and contact to send him a Rosary or set up a gofundme to help him with his studies (college or seminary).  I felt compelled to highlight this hero on my blog as a thank you for being there for a bishop and to hopefully inspire other altar servers out there.

One of my first assignments in the Church was master of ceremonies for a bishop. I was his assistant and went with him everywhere also like a secret service agent.  So as you can imagine, the news of the attack on Bishop Cruz made me cringe.

If you are from the Newark Archdiocese or a friend/relative and know who this altar boy is, please contact me.  Please pray for this beautiful soul.

Source:


http://newyork.cbslocal.com/2017/01/30/newark-bishop-attacked-during-mass/

newyork.cbslocal.com/2017/01/30/newark-bishop-attacked-during-mass/

Manhunt for Ahmad Khan Rahami

The NYPD and FBI have just announced that they are looking for Ahmad Khan Rahami who is believed to be connected to the bombings in Chelsea in Manhattan as well as in New Jersey. Rahami is believed to be armed and dangerous. If you see him, contact the authorities at 911 or 1-800-557-TIPS.  Do not engage the suspect! I will update this post as I learn more.  STAY TUNED!

If you see Ahmad Khan Rahami or know where he is, call 911 or 1800557TIPS #Elizabeth #Chelsea #catholic #apologetics pic.twitter.com/7SU066W0R2

— Sacerdotنs (@Sacerdotus) September 19, 2016

Just got emergency alert regarding Ahmad Khan Rahami on my cell. #chelsea #Elizabeth #catholic pic.twitter.com/DBOLePLURX

— Sacerdotنs (@Sacerdotus) September 19, 2016

Ahmad Khan Rahami is listed by FBI as armed and dangerous. #Elizabeth #ChelseaExplosion #chelsea pic.twitter.com/HjnU7FK1A7

— Sacerdotنs (@Sacerdotus) September 19, 2016

Fbi looking for Ahmad Khan Rahami in connection to the recent bombings. #Elizabeth #ChelseaExplosion #chelsea pic.twitter.com/Xzezo1ExYr

— Sacerdotنs (@Sacerdotus) September 19, 2016

UPDATE:   Ahmad Khan Rahami was just apprehended by Elizabeth police in New Jersey.  He was spotted sleeping at the entrance of a bar. The bar owner found him and recognized him. He immediately notified the police.  Police officers arrived and got into a shootout with Rahami injuring him in the leg and possibly the shoulder. The officers involved suffered injuries, but will be okay. Rahami was seen on surveillance video carrying rolling carry-on and duffel bag. He is seen leaving the pressure cookers on the scene of the explosion in Chelsea.  Let us thank God for our brave police officers and FBI agents.  

From mugshot to shootout: The amazingly quick capture of Ahmad Rahami https://t.co/azy8bg8dyR pic.twitter.com/iGwJpqqVib

— CNN (@CNN) September 19, 2016

Jersey Police Shooting

Back in December of 2014, Jerame C. Reid who was 36 years old was killed by police after being pulled over with another passenger.  There is a dashboard video of the stop. Police officers from Bridgeton, New Jersey followed a Jaguar vehicle which has passed a stop sign.  The vehicle was ordered to pull over.  Immediately the police officers went to investigate. One of the officers is seen shouting that there is a gun. The officer seems to know the man in the passenger side since he calls him by name and apparently had arrested him before.  During the encounter, the officer tells Reid not to move.  Reid continues to move despite the officer telling him not to and to show his heads. The officer warnings him not to move or he will kill him. Despite the warnings, Reid exits the vehicle with hands up and is gunned down by the police officer.

The debate is now ongoing with some saying the shooting was justified, while others state that it was not.  I have seen the video several times and have mixed feelings.  Reid should not have moved or come out of the car. When an officer gives someone instructions, it is important that he/she follows them. However, the officer who shot Reid seemed a bit paranoid and emotional. He was shouting hysterically even as Reid came out of the car with his hands up. I would have to see more evidence before I comment further.

Jerame C. Reid

Source:

http://news.yahoo.com/video-shows-man-shot-jersey-police-raising-hands-150049422.html

http://www.nj.com/cumberland/index.ssf/2015/01/driver_in_bridgeton_shooting_video_is_long_branch.html

http://www.foxnews.com/us/2015/01/22/dashboard-camera-video-shows-man-shot-by-nj-police-raising-his-hands/

Bridge-gate

Reelected New Jersey governor Chris Christie is in hot water for his staff's involvement in political bullying against a mayor of the state he runs who refused to support Christie's election bid.  He could face a criminal probe.

The George Washington bridge had many lane "shut downs" during the early fall of 2012. These "shut downs" were done in the name of surveying and repairs; however, news personalities such as Rachel Maddow speculated an ulterior motive.  She was correct.

The shutting down of lanes on the George Washington bridge had nothing to do with traffic surveys or repairs.  They were an attempt to indirectly attack mayor Mark Sokolich of the town of Fort Lee.  Sokolich did not support Chris Christie's bid for reelection as New Jersey's governor and apparently some staffers on Christie's entourage decided to punish him and his town.

However, this bullying and revenge effected tens of thousands of commuters who rely on the GWB to travel.  This bridge is probably the most important one of the nation.  Moreover, there were medical emergencies that were delayed because of the closing of lanes, one from which the death of a woman resulted.

Christie claims to not have had knowledge of this and is extremely upset and contrite over the whole matter.  This "Bridge-gate" will most likely have a ripple effect in his 2016 presidential bid. He already has lost supporters for his cowardice against a ruling that legalized so-called "same sex marriage."  This scandal will surely add to the list.

Most likely he will fire these staffers and they will most likely retaliate by revealing to the news world whether or not Christie was directly involved or had knowledge of this behavior.  Time will tell...





Source:

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/01/08/chris-christie-bridge_n_4563921.html

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/01/08/chris-christie-traffic_n_4561448.html

http://www.northjersey.com/fortlee/GWB_lane_closures_delayed_EMS_response_in_Fort_Lee.html

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/01/08/new-jersey-lane-closures_n_4564480.html

http://www.motherjones.com/mojo/2014/01/chris-christie-bridge-lane-closure-slowed-search-missing-child

http://www.nytimes.com/2013/12/25/nyregion/accounts-of-petty-retribution-reinforce-christies-bullying-image.html?_r=0

http://blog.nj.com/njv_editorial_page/2014/01/gov_chris_christies_officials.html

http://www.nydailynews.com/opinion/christie-waterloo-article-1.1570246

Lying Lesbian II

Another member of the LGBT community was caught fishing for pity.  Instead of crying out gay bashing by faking an assault, Dayna Morales who was in the marines and serves at the Gallop Asian Bistro claims she was a victim of discrimination because of her lesbian lifestyle.

Morales claims a couple that dined at her workplace did not tip her because she is a lesbian.  She posted a photo of a receipt on her facebook showing what appears to be a receipt with some writing on it.  The writing says that they (customers) cannot tip her because they do not agree with her lifestyle.

However, the guests at the restaurant who are being accused of discrimination and of being misers shot back at Morales saying that her story is not true.  They have the receipt which does not have the writing that the receipt on Morales' facebook has.  Their copy of the receipt shows that they did in fact tip the server.  Apparently, Morales forged the receipt in order to get pity and possibly donations from others as in the case of the Red Lobster server who had a racist remark written on a receipt and was given 10,000.

 The restaurant won't produce their copy of the receipt but said they are investigating the matter.

Source:

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/11/26/family-anti-gay-receipt-hoax_n_4343563.html

http://weaselzippers.us/2013/11/26/nj-lesbian-waitress-who-claimed-customer-wrote-anti-gay-note-on-receipt-a-hoax/

http://news.ninemsn.com.au/world/2013/11/27/06/08/waitress-forged-anti-gay-restaurant-bill

The Blimp full of Hot Air

Governor Chris Christie of New Jersey is known for his "in-your-face" attitude and refusal to budge on any of the issues he holds a solid opinion on.  Well on one particular one, he broke his integrity as a leader.

After vetoing many bills promoting the legalization of so-called "gay marriage," Christie dropped his state appeal against a ruling given by Judge Mary Jacobson allowing gay couples to marry in New Jersey making it the 14th state to allow this atrocity.  Christie's decision may be a surprise to some but not to those who are politically savvy.

Christie is up for reelection in the state and has a strong vocal opponent in Barbara Buono.  She has called Christie on his views against so-called "same sex marriage" in an attempt to make herself the viable modern candidate that New Jersey needs.  Christie is trying to get votes from everyone, even gays and liberals in a largely democratic state.  By doing so, he has shown himself to be hypocritical, dishonest and lacking of integrity for changing his position along the way, so to speak.
Christie is a 2016 presidential contender and has disappointed many republicans as well as those who want marriage defended and protected.  He has demonstrated himself to be the typical politician who lies to get elected and does not hold onto his values.  
 
It is a sad time for New Jersey now and will be for America if this guy becomes president.
    


Source:
http://www.politico.com/story/2013/10/chris-christie-gay-marriage-decision-98607.html

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/tag/chris-christie-gay-marriage

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/tag/chris-christie-gay-marriage

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/tag/chris-christie-gay-rights

http://news.yahoo.com/chris-christie-gay-marriage-move-stirs-gop-072124880--election.html

http://www.cnn.com/2013/10/23/opinion/zelizer-chris-christie-gay-rights/

http://www.nydailynews.com/news/politics/chris-christie-abandons-gay-marriage-appeal-article-1.1491545

http://articles.latimes.com/2013/oct/21/news/la-pn-chris-christie-gay-marriage-decision-2016-20131021

NJ Judge Okays Gay Marriage

On Friday, judge Mary Jacobson ruled that New Jersey must allow so-called "Gay Marriage" starting October 21st.  Once again, judicial activism is attempting to bypass our republic by making laws via autocracy. 

This is scary indeed.  Why have elections and representatives if a single judge can decide what is law in our states? 

Governor Chris Christie has vowed to fight this in court by appealing to a higher court.  Hopefully, this irresponsible ruling that is an affront to our legislative process will be knocked down and this judge removed from the bench. 

There is no place for judicial activism in the Land of the Free and Home of the Brave!  Our Founding Fathers came together to formulate a government whose power would come from the people.  This government cannot become a monarchy or dictatorship.  For this reason, 'checks and balances' exists so that no branch of the government can have too much power.  Having a judge decide what is law is wrong and contrary to the wishes of our Founding Fathers. 

 





Source:

http://hosted.ap.org/dynamic/stories/U/US_GAY_MARRIAGE_NJ?SITE=AP&SECTION=HOME&TEMPLATE=DEFAULT&CTIME=2013-09-28-00-50-59

Boobs and Buns

I was reading a few things online and found them amusing and had to write on them.  This is why I chose the title "Boobs and Buns" to make light of what I read.

Boobs
Apparently, it is legal in NYC for a woman to go shirtless.   When I say shirtless, I don't mean wearing a bra, sports bra or even a bikini top.  I mean completely shirtless with the breasts exposed to the world.  Women in NYC can bare it all without issue from the cops.  As a matter of fact, the NYPD was instructed to leave women who do this alone and break up crowds that may form around her who are naturally curious to see some boobies.

The issue began in the early 90's when five women were arrested at Rochester.  The issue went to court (People v.Ramona Santorelli and Mary Lou Schloss) and the judge ruled that the women had a right to be shirtless in public.  These women of course are remnants of the hippies of the past who under the banner of "freedom" and feminism burned their bras in protest.

Buns
Another story involves a proposed law to ban what is called "sagging."  No.. this law does not
involve breasts... it involves a style of wearing - or not wearing - clothes.  "Sagging" is a style usually visible on males and sometimes lesbians in which their jeans/pants hang so low that underwear is visible to all.

In New Jersey, some politicians are taking the issue seriously by claiming that residents and visitors are complaining about the rear views as they try to enjoy some time on the Jersey Shore.  The style is usually visible on youngsters who don't seem to care much about who is viewing their undergarments and its contents.

"Sagging" supposedly originated from prison.  Prisoners are not allowed to wear belts, so pants sag low and cannot be contained so inmates simply leave them sagging.  Rappers and Hip Hop artists adopted the trend and their fans are now imitating them.  Moreover, it is also mentioned that sagging is a homosexual cue to attract a sex partner.  A theory exists that while in prison, inmates who may be homosexual or just sexually aroused, sag in order to signal others that he wants to be penetrated by another male - usually a well endowed one.  The display of his buttocks is an attempt to arouse other males and attract a sexual partner.   Another theory that goes around is that some guys want to show off their underwear brands in an attempt to show "social status" since not all underwear costs the same.

My thoughts
These stories are strange but interesting, to say the least.  The debate can go either way in my opinion.  Men and women have breasts, so why do men get to be shirtless and women must be clothed?  It seems unfair right?  Well unfortunately, our species is a species that sometimes cannot have full control of bodily desires.  We cannot shut off appetites of any kind with ease.  That being said, if women are allowed to walk bare-chested, rest assured that she will be sexually attacked in some way.  This may not be because she is "asking for it."  It is because there will be males who simply cannot control themselves.  They may be mentally ill or simply so aroused that they cannot help but attack a woman.

The body is good.  God made it.  We should not be ashamed of our bodies.  There is so much sexual taboo regarding female breasts, but they serve a function: the feeding of human offspring.  Round breasts exist on women, not only to identify her as female; but also to provide nutrition for her offspring.

As an apocrine gland, the breast produces milk with antibodies geared towards helping an infant develop.  Men find breasts attractive not because they are 'sexy' or what not, but because of this function.  Males are hardwired to find the best mate in order to produce the best offspring.  Women with the "best" breasts are perceived as more attractive because of this hard-wiring.  Because of this, I think it is wiser to have women cover up.  This is not because of any issues with equality, but for safety.

In regards to "sagging," I am all for freedom of expression; however, sagging is a bit silly, tacky and unhygienic.  It makes no sense to walk around with your pants hanging below your buttocks while your underwear is showing.  This makes it nearly impossible to walk with a good posture and simply makes the sagger look ridiculous.  Moreover, the exposing of the rear is unhygienic.  This is an area where human waste is released from the body.  When sitting or leaning on a surface, fecal matter and smells will bond with seats and other places where the buttocks rest.  This is disgusting and poses a health risk for those who sit or lean wherever the sagger was resting at.  Health risks also affect the sagger.  If a sagger is sitting on a bus seat, subway seats, park bench; the bacteria present on those surfaces can be transferred to the buttocks which may lead to boils or even abscesses.  The warm weather will further aggravate this because the area is prone to sweat/moisture and body heat that will increase bacteria growth.

Furthermore, since sagging can be interpreted as a signal for homosexual attraction, homosexual
men may mistake heterosexuals males for homosexual ones and a problem may arise if the former flirts with the latter.  There is also the issue of voyerism.  While reading on sagging, I noticed videos on youtube that show cell phone quality videos of saggers being stalked.

The videos were obviously recorded by voyeurs who seem to get off on watching the movement of a sagger's buttocks in a public area.  Unbeknownst to the sagger, he is being videotaped from behind and his parts are then displayed on the internet.  I seriously doubt that a guy would want someone following him and having his buns recorded by a cell phone camera.

In closing, there are a lot of crazy people out there.  It is better to be safe than sorry.  Women should cover up and guys need to wear their pants correctly.  A woman is not defined by her breasts.  Keeping them covered does not make her less equal than a male.  Moreover, a guy has no need to show his "booty" or "cakes" - as the youth call them - for the world to see.  This is behavior unbecoming of a heterosexual gentleman.

So ladies, keep the clothes on and guys keep the cakes in the bakery.                  




Source:

http://www.policymic.com/articles/42359/topless-women-in-public-not-breaking-the-law-says-nypd
http://www.boston.com/travel/destinations/2013/06/11/cheeky-problem-town-restrict-baggy-pants/Vqu0PM6Tx8oeIQji6z8FRJ/story.html

Is "Sandy" a punishment from God?

Statue is all that is left in Breezy Point, Queens

"See, the storm of the Lord will burst out in wrath, a whirlwind swirling down on the heads of the wicked."  Jeremiah 23:19

Recently, a huge hurricane nicknamed "Frankenstorm" hit the north eastern section of the United States of America.  The storm was predicted to be one for the record books.  Those predictions were not far off.  The storm was the biggest storm to hit the area in a century or so.  Some parts of the region had just finished recovering from hurricane Irene which passed nearby in the summer of 2011 only to have more destruction.

New Jersey saw floods like never before.  Towns are under water.  Homes and other buildings were washed away like sand castles.  Even New York City, a city that is known to handle anything suffered flooding of the kind that has never been witnessed.  Lower Manhattan was overtaken by huge surges from the Hudson river.

Further north, both the Hudson and East rivers had a surge so large that it reached deep into Manhattan!   As a New Yorker, I was left dismayed by the footage of the waters flooding the city.  These things seem to only happen in the south.  We New Yorkers always see these kinds of floods and surges occur in Florida, New Orleans, and so on; however, it happened to our beloved town.

Like scenes from the movie "The Day After Tomorrow," the waters rushed through streets and avenues causing power outages and severe damage to the MTA's transit system.  Subway tunnels were flooded.  Tunnels where thousands of cars pass to and fro were flooded.  Even the WTC's "Ground Zero" became a waterfall with water falling downward almost like Niagra falls.  There was even worry that the sea wall holding back the Hudson was compromised.  I was in shock as I saw Brooklyn's Coney Island flooded.  I visited there during the summer and saw the spots I was at completely underwater.  So much disaster in just a few hours.  (see http://sacerdotvs.blogspot.com/2012/10/hurricane-sandy.html)

Many quickly began to ask, "Is God bringing down His wrath?"  Others asked, "Where was God?"   These questions are two among many that clergy much wrestle with.  They are sometimes not easy to answer.

Jesuit priest, Father James Martin, SJ tweeted:

If any religious leaders say tomorrow that the hurricane is God's punishment against some group they're idiots. God's ways are not our ways.
— James Martin, SJ (@JamesMartinSJ) October 29, 2012

Is this so?  Is God not punishing anyone with this "act of God?"  This is hard to answer.  While I understand Fr. Martin's attempt to calm everyone down, he does not know what God's will was in this instant - no one does.  All we can do is speculate.

As we all know, the Old Testament is full of verses regarding God showing His justice.  From fire from the sky to floods and plagues, God has shown people that He is not one to mess with or ridicule.  In the New Testament, God seems calm, but does show His wrath when people are using the Temple to make money and when Jesus died on the Cross.

God is indeed merciful, but He is just as well.  There cannot be peace or order without justice.  That being said, we must take this time as we heal to recollect and try to understand why this storm occurred apart from the reasons science gives us.

The north east has the most states that recognize so-called "same sex" marriage.  Ironically, after New York legalized it, there was an earth quake and Irene hit.  Was this God showing disapproval?  Again, this is hard to say.  Moreover, New York City recently passed laws making it harder for Pro-Life people to counsel and help women seeking an abortion.  Bigots like those of Westboro are allowed to bother people at funerals, but pro-life people can't help women.  What is the world coming to?

If that is not bad enough, New York City has allowed graphic sex ed courses to be taught to children and is even distributing contraception to them!  What's crazy is that if a child has a headache, the school nurse cannot give any aspirin.  However, the child can get birth control with ease and without consent from parents!

The City has also tried hard to ban religious groups from using public schools on weekends.  What harm can a religious group do by using a school auditorium to worship?  The buildings belong to the public.  As long as a particular religion is not taught in a public school during normal school hours, then there should be no issue with using the school for worship especially when done on a weekend.

I can go on and on, but you get the point.  An atmosphere against God and morality has overtaken the region.  What's good is now considered bad and what's bad is now considered good.

"The LORD is slow to anger but great in power; the LORD will not leave the guilty unpunished. His way is in the whirlwind and the storm, and clouds are the dust of his feet."  Nahum 1:3

While we as Catholics believe in the Divine Mercy, we must also remember that God is just.  Are these natural disasters a warning?  

St. John Vianney had this to say:

"In fact, my children, it is sin that brings upon us all calamities, all scourges, war, famine, pestilence, earthquakes, fires, frost, hail, storms - all that afflicts us, all that makes us miserable." (Chapter 14 paragraph 8)

Nature rebels when sin gets out of control.  Nature ever since the fall has waited in frustration for the holy ones to rise up and bring about God's redemption and glory. (Romans 8:19-23)

Yes, God's ways are not ours as Father Martin states; however, that does not mean He will not show justice.  St. Faustina wrote about an angel sent to punish a city in her diary:

"I saw an Angel, the executor of God's wrath... about to strike the earth...I began to beg God earnestly for the world with words which I heard interiorly. As I prayed in this way, I saw the Angel's helplessness, and he could not carry out the just punishment...."

She continues in the diary speaking of mercy and how she was taught the Divine Mercy chaplet which somehow assists in holding back God's wrath.

I truly believe God is merciful.  Humanity has gone wild for centuries, yet we are still around.  If this does not show that God is merciful, then I don't know what does.  Moreover, if God was punishing the north east with Sandy, then why weren't the guilty ones targeted?  On the news, we see and hear of children and elderly dying, hospitals full of newborns and the sick being left in darkness without electricity.  What did these people do to deserve this huge hurricane?

We just don't know what was the reason behind this storm other than it was a natural phenomenon that is part of the package of living on planet Earth.   Maybe it was God trying to wake everyone up, who knows.  
We must reflect on it.

In any event, we must stop wasting time pointing fingers and focus that energy on helping those affected as we contemplate why this storm happened where it did and when it did.    


To help the relief efforts, please go here: http://sacerdotvs.blogspot.com/p/hurricane-sandy-reli.html
    


Source: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/10/29/hurricane-sandy-god-theology-clergy-victims-cope_n_2041936.html

Chris Christie Crushes Gay Marriage

A few hours ago Governor of New Jersey, Chris Christie went through with his promise to veto any bill presented to him that will allow so-called "Gay Marriage."   He insisted that the vote should go to the people by way of ballot.

The media often makes it seem like every American is for so called "Gay Marriage," but this is just not true.  The majority of Americans favor the protection of marriage between a man and woman.

I applaud Governor Christie for being a valiant man who kept to his decision despite knowing that the liberal media will come down on him.  Already news articles, blogs and the like are labeling him as an archaic out of touch governor.  The comments on news blogs are filled with angry attacks targeting Chris Christie's weight and the like.

These people are tolerant of unnatural unions, but are intolerant of obese people... go figure.


Source:  http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2012/feb/18/chris-christie-veto-new-jersey-bill

The Rainbow becomes Black n White

Recently in New Jersey a Special Education teacher Vicki Knox posted some anti homosexual status posts on her Facebook profile.  She supposedly wrote that 'homosexuality is a sin and is spreading like cancer.'   This has caused outrage among gay people and their supporters.  The whole incident began when her school put up a wall in honor of "Gay, Lesbian, bi and Transgender History Month."  She was not happy about its existence and criticized it being in a public school.  I agree with her.  This should not be in any school.  Gay lifestyle is not academia.  

Gay people and their supporters are calling for the dismissal of this teacher.  Protests have gathered outside during a meeting where both sides spoke about the situation.  In light of the recent rise of gay suicides, much attention is being focused on this teacher and it is clear they want to make an example out of her.

While her comments regarding homosexuality were harsh, what bothers me most is that her freedom of speech is being violated.  It is scary that a teacher cannot write on her Facebook profile her thoughts or opinions without threats of suspension or losing her job.  She did nothing illegal with the post.  She is entitled to her opinion and everyone must respect it.  As long as she does not use those same words while in the function of teacher, there should not be any problem.  

The LGBT movement has taken the Rainbow as their symbol.  This symbol is supposed to represent a "sign of diversity and inclusion."  However, obviously if you are not of the LGBT community or believe their lifestyle is unnatural, you are not included in this symbol.  The Rainbow now is just Black and White.  LGBT vs Everyone else.

I hope this teacher is reinstated and allowed to keep her job and is granted the protection of free speech which she has right to under the US Constitution.

What is next?  Will Clergy be brought to trial for preaching against the homosexual lifestyle?  Will Bibles, Qu'ran's and other texts be edited or banned?  Will students be punished for speaking their views on homosexuality?  I for one will speak and write my mind.  God help anyone who tries to take away my freedom of speech. :)  

"No person can be punished for entertaining or professing religious beliefs or disbeliefs, for church attendance or nonattendance." - U.S. Supreme Court Justice Hugo Black, majority opinion; Everson v. Board of Education 330 U.S. 1 (1947)