Comments You Will Never Hear In A Priesthood Meeting

Comments You Will Never Hear In A Priesthood Meeting


"I was so embarrassed when I saw Jackson walk in wearing a pinstripped suit exactly like mine."

"We're handing around a sign-up sheet to petition the bishop for a men's Enrichment night. It's not fair that the sisters get one and we don't."

"The bishop is rewarding the quorum with the highest percentage of home teaching done this quarter with $300 for the budget. Let's beat the high priests and party!"

"I've been nervously preparing this lesson for four weeks."


"I hope you like the flowers I brought for the centerpiece. They're from my own garden."


"Our lesson next week is 'Cooking better barbecues with wine.'"


"My nails look awful today. I've got to stop changing the oil in my car on Saturday nights."


"We've been having better family home evenings ever since Janice learned the rules of football."

"We've been getting lots of complaints about our persistent home teaching visits, so we're asking you to not go out this month."


(Latter-Day Saint Wit and Wisdom, p. 116)

A moment with J. Golden Kimball...

A moment with J. Golden Kimball...

A woman came up to Golden after a meeting with one of the toughest Gospel questions he ever faced. She was a sweet and lovely sister.







"Brother Kimball, I've got a real problem. You've got to help me. I have two older brothers. the older of the two was out haying last August and was hit by lightning as he stood in his wagon. As dusk the horses brought him back in the wagon to the corral and he was dead. He was just as fine a man as God ever created, Brother Kimball. He was the bishop and he taught at school and he was a great father and husband and was active in the community. The whole town came to his funeral."






Brother Kimball expressed his sincere regret. She said, "Well, that's not my problem. I miss him but I know I'll see him again. It's my younger brother. He's no good at all. He smokes, he drinks, he gambles, he cheats on his wife. He's a terrible father and husband, and he's still alive. I can't figure it out. Why would the Lord take the good one?"






She started to cry. Golden put his arm around her and said, "Oh, Sister, now there's got to be an answer here."






He prayed, but nothing came to him. He prayed again very hard for several minutes. Finally, he felt inspired. "Sister, he said, "do you know what it is? It's God's will. God doesn't want that jackass brother of yours any more than you do."






The good sister went away happy with this answer. (J. Golden Kimball Stories, p. 37.38)

10 Dead-of-Winter Fitness Motivators

10 Dead-of-Winter Fitness Motivators



By Barbara Call Bourassa


Follow these tips to keep your fitness levels up when temperatures drop.


When the temperature drops and the snow begins to fall outside, it's hard to justify a good reason for getting off the couch. But even though lounging in front of the television feels a lot more tempting than taking a jog or even driving to the gym, there's no reason you have to completely surrender your fitness goals until spring. These ten simple strategies will motivate you to keep moving all season long.

1. Have fun. Let's face it—an hour on the elliptical trainer at the gym can get quite boring, especially if you forgot your iPod or the guy next to you insists on watching boring reruns. Try tapping into your inner child instead. Did you love sledding as a kid? Could you always be found as the ice skating rink? Many of the same activities that gave you pleasure as a kid can be just as fun now. Yes, you may need new equipment; yes, you may need a refresher course; and yes, chances are your muscles will be sore afterwards—especially if you haven't been this active for awhile. But as long as you're having fun, you're far more likely to forget that you're getting a good cardiovascular workout.


2. Try something new. Here's another idea that will reawaken your inner child—name the activity that you always wanted to try as a kid, but weren't able to. Then explore that option as an adult. Better yet, try something completely outside your own personal activity safety zone-such as cardio salsa dancing, snowshoeing, or Tai Chi. You may awaken an old passion or even create an entirely new one.

3. Get outdoors. Fresh air provides a burst of fresh oxygen to your system—an instant energy booster. What's more, there's nothing like the sound of a bird singing, a squirrel chattering, or the icicles dripping to remind you that you're a small piece of something much larger—and that can give you a fresh take on living.

4. Clean your house. If you can't get outdoors to exercise, think about burning some calories while indoors. Giving your home a thorough cleaning will only help you feel better, but it will provide some great health benefits as well. Vacuuming, dusting, and scrubbing, for example, works your muscles and burns calories. Plus, the removal of dust and allergens from your home will help you feel better overall.

5. Buy new gear. There's nothing like some new clothes to give you a boost of confidence. You can use this saying to your advantage when it comes to fitness, too. Use your new outfit to show off your weight loss results, feel more comfortable at the gym, or just dust off your slightly outdated fitness image.

6. Go shopping. Try shocking your system by trying on bathing suits in the dead of winter. Keep in mind that dressing room lighting can be less than flattering—but sometimes jumping into the deep end is just the motivation you need to get moving!

7. Consult an expert. There's nothing like a fresh perspective to get you in the mood to achieve. If you're struggling with emotional food issues, for example, consult a therapist, or find a support group with people who understand your needs. If you're tired of the same old exercise routine, consider meeting with a personal trainer to get some fresh ideas. And if your cooking or eating habits have gone stale, a visit or two with a registered dietician can bring to life a whole range of flavors and possibilities.


8. Set a goal. The summer probably seems far away but actually, it's just about the right amount of time needed to train for a fitness event or race. The key is to find a group will that can support you and/or hold you accountable while you train. There's nothing like knowing that you're going to have to wear running shorts, meet a fundraising goal, or hold up your end of the team to serve as an effective motivator.

9. Enlist a friend. Join forces with your partner, spouse, son, daughter, uncle, mom, sister, neighbor, or dog. Studies show that people who set goals or make appointments with friends to exercise are more likely to go through with it. And the reason is simple: you're accountable to someone else, which often means more to us than being accountable to ourselves.

10. Invest in yourself. Many people spend a lot of time doing things for other people-their kids, their partner, their aging parents. But don't forget this fact: at the end of the day, you are the best caretaker for yourself. Consider getting healthy an investment in yourself. The paybacks include increased energy, better health, and a more positive outlook on life.


Copyright © 2008 MTS Corp. All rights reserved.

Congressional Reform Act of 2010

Here is a proposal to promote a "Congressional Reform Act of 2010." It would contain eight provisions, all of which should be strongly endorsed by the constituents of the members of both houses.



Many of you will say, "this is impossible." Remember, congress has the lowest approval of any entity in government and now is the time for Americans to join together to reform congress - the entity that supposedly represents us.


We need a senator to introduce this bill in the US senate and a representative to introduce a similar bill in the US house. Please contact your senators and congressmen.


If all else fails, something like this needs to be added to the ballot for the next election.


After what's been going on for the past few years, surely the American public will vote for these changes.

***********************************Congressional Reform Act of 2009


1. Term Limits: 12 years only, one of the possible options below.

A. Two Six-year Senate terms


B. Six Two-year House terms


C. One Six-year Senate term and three Two-Year House terms


2. No Tenure / No Pension:


A congressman collects a salary while in office and receives no pay when they are out of office.


3. Congress (past, present & future) participates in Social Security: All funds in the Congressional retirement fund moves to the Social Security system immediately. All future funds flow into the Social Security system, Congress participates with the American people.


4. Congress can purchase their own retirement plan just as all Americans..

5. Congress will no longer vote themselves a pay raise. Congressional pay will rise by the lower of CPI or 3%.

6. Congress loses their current health care system and participates in the same health care system as the American people.


7. Congress must equally abide in all laws they impose on the American people.


8. All contracts with past and present congressmen are void effective 1/1/10.

PLEASE REMEMBER: The American people did not give all these perks to congressmen; congressmen gave all these sweetheart deals to themselves. We need to take back the Congress.


Serving in Congress is an honor, not a career. The Founding Fathers envisioned citizen legislators, serve your term(s), then go home and back to work.

Money-Saving Tips for the New Year

Money-Saving Tips for the New Year



by Michael G. Peterson

Financial goals for the New Year can easily get lost amid the other changes you have in mind for your life. Here are a few simple tips to helps you make those first steps to financial wellness.

Lose weight. Stop biting your fingernails. Read more books. Learn to knit.

If you're like most people, you're planning to ring in 2010 by making a slew of lifestyle changes. The great thing about a new year is that it gives you a fresh start. Maybe you didn't use that home gym as much as you wanted to in 2009, or maybe you didn't stick to that low-carb diet. A new year is a great opportunity to get back on track.

This year, as you gear up to say hello to 2010, don't forget about your finances. Spend a little time getting up-close and personal with your checkbook and make a plan to curb your spending and fatten up your savings account.

Don't know where to start? Read on for seven tips for a financially healthy 2010:

1. Avoid the mall. Seriously. As 2009 draws to a close, your favorite retailers will be running end-of-year clearance sales on everything from major appliances to winter coats. Unless you absolutely must have a new refrigerator, pass on the sales and put your extra money into your savings account instead.


2. Cut the cards. Got credit card debt? There's no time like the start of a new year to change your spending habits and start putting a dent in your debt. Make a resolution to start paying off your credit cards. And, more importantly, make a resolution to stop using your cards, period.


3. Start an emergency fund. Credit cards can be hard to cut when you use them for emergencies. So start an emergency fund! A good way to make sure that you don't have to rack up loads of credit card debt is to start socking money away for those unplanned emergencies. A good rule of thumb for most people is to have about three months' salary in a separate account. But, don't let that figure intimidate you: Decide what you can realistically put away, and go from there. If you start in January, you'll be surprised how quickly your money will add up.

4. Curb your impulses. From fancy cupcakes to fashion magazines, DVD rentals to fast food – everybody has a few inexpensive vices. But, these little luxuries can add up to a big drain on your wallet. The New Year is a great time to cut down on impulse purchases. Got a daily eating out habit? Kick it down to twice a week. Addicted to convenience foods? Make a lunch at home and brown bag it. You'll be surprised at how much you'll save.

5. Be a savvy shopper. Even the most financially savvy people in the world still have to go grocery shopping. But, there are dozens of ways to shop smarter in 2010 and stretch your dollar when stocking up on the necessities. Clip coupons and watch store circulars for double (or even triple) coupon events. Consider switching to store-brand items whenever possible. In most cases, they're just as good as the national brand and can save you some serious money. Also, get in the habit of making a list before you go out – it'll help you stay focused and buy only what you need.

6. Check your credit. From helping you secure a home mortgage to, in some cases, landing a new job, your credit report is used in countless ways. All consumers are eligible for a free annual credit report from the three major credit bureaus: Experian, TransUnion, and Equifax. Start the New Year off right – request a copy from each and read them carefully. Not only does this give you the chance to dispute errors, taking the time to check up on your credit can also alert you to fraudulent activities, like accounts you didn't open or charges you didn't make.

And finally, my most important tip for 2010:


7. Write a budget. And stick to it. Writing a budget isn't nearly as scary as it sounds. And, a budget is a great way to make sure that your finances stay on track in 2010. It's pretty easy: Start with your total monthly household income, then deduct your bills (like your rent or mortgage, utilities, car payments, etc.) and expenses (like gas and food). After that, decide how much you want to put in your savings account and how much will go to your emergency fund. And, don't forget to leave yourself a little fun money for the occasional restaurant meal or night at the movies. And remember to be flexible: If you find yourself a little strapped for cash after you've worked out your budget, don't ditch it altogether – make adjustments until you hit on a budget you can live with.




Making a few simple adjustments to your spending and saving habits can go a long way. Follow these tips and you'll be on the way to a financially secure new year.



Good luck and have a happy, healthy 2010!



Michael G. Peterson co-founded American Credit Foundation, a non-profit credit counseling organization. Visit debtguru.com for more information and financial resources.

WHAT COULD BE BETTER?

What every Star Wars fan wants. The bed, not the girl guys!

5 Most Effective Diet Tips

5 Most Effective Diet Tips



Here, get tried-and-true advice that really works.


Don't eat your favorite foods. Never snack between meals. Always avoid the scale. When it comes to shedding pounds, you've probably heard it all. But unfortunately, these tiny tidbits could end up doing you more harm than good. Want tried-and-true advice that really works? Here, we reveal the five most effective diet tips of all time.

1. Grab a snack. It's often said that you shouldn't eat between meals, but diet experts disagree. Most research suggests that eating six small meals a day, as opposed to three large ones, helps to maintain energy and keeps blood-sugar levels from plummeting. What's more, according to a study published in the British Medical Journal, nibbling throughout the day helps to jump-start your metabolism, allowing your body to process calories more efficiently.


2. Hop on the scale. While diet experts once advised against weighing yourself on a daily basis, patients enrolled in the National Weight Control Registry have proven that weighing yourself every day on the same scale can help people to lose weight and keep it off. Experts attribute the scale's effectiveness to the fact that people can catch small changes as they occur and take measures to correct any weight gain immediately.

3. Don't deprive yourself. Eliminating favorite foods from your diet can actually have adverse effects on your diet goals. People who sacrifice their favorite treats often wind up eating several other foods to replace the ones they gave up because they didn't feel satisfied. Most experts believe that it's okay to eat virtually any food-the key is moderation. Treating yourself to an occasional reward can actually be a practical way to limit unhealthy splurges.


4. Value your veggies and fruits. Fruits and vegetables are perfect diet foods-loaded with fiber to help you feel full and packed with vitamins and nutrients to help prevent disease. But a study conducted by the John Hopkins Bloomberg School of Health revealed that only 11 percent of U.S. adults are meeting the USDA guidelines for fruit and vegetable intake. Be sure to keep both fresh and frozen produce on hand, for a healthy side dish or a quick snack.

5. Enlist the experts. Rather than try to arbitrarily figure out what's going to work for you, check in with those who know for sure. For example, a nutritionist or registered dietician will be able to set you up with an easy-to-follow eating regimen, while a personal trainer can design a strength-training program around your individual needs. Worried about these expenses burning a hole in your pocket? Consider consulting students in a nutrition program at your local college, or meet with a trainer once or twice, just to get motivated.

I ALWAYS MISS MY DAD AT CHRISTMAS

My Dad would have been 66 this Christmas and I still think about him and miss him a lot. I do believe that he knew my children in heaven and was preparing them to put up with such goofy parents! I do believe that he gets a good laugh in now and then watching Liz and I be parents! Merry Christmas Dad!

BIRTHDAY CARD THAT MY DAUGHTER MADE ME

Birthday card that my daughter made me.

Power Up Your Sperm

Power Up Your Sperm



Everyone knows that pregnant women should focus on their health by eating lots of fruits and vegetables, so it really shouldn’t come as a surprise that the same foods appear to benefit men hoping to become fathers. Researchers at the University of Murcia in Spain recently published results of two studies on how diet affects quality of sperm. The studies showed that the antioxidants in fruits and vegetables improve sperm concentration, mobility and morphology and, at the same time, reduce oxidative stress that can negatively affect sperm.


The study included 61 men from couples who came to fertility centers -- 30 men had poor-quality semen, while 31 men had good-quality semen and acted as controls. Study author Jaime Mendiola, PhD, department of preventive medicine and public health, says that the men whose tests showed that they had the healthiest sperm concentration, motility and morphology were the ones who, overall, ate more vegetables, fruit and low-fat dairy products and less meat and full-fat dairy products. When I contacted Dr. Mendiola, he told me that one problem with the latter diet, rich in full-fat dairy and meat products, might be related to xenoestrogens (endocrine disruptors) that result from the growth-enhancers the animals are fed. If not combatted by a diet filled with antioxidants, these could negatively affect semen quality.

There has been concern about poor semen quality throughout Europe in the last 50 or so years. For instance, it is estimated that 40% of the young men in Denmark have semen quality that is below levels for optimal fertility. Dr. Mendiola speculates that this may be related to environmental or occupational pollutants, changes in lifestyle, exposure to toxins and dietary habits. His team is now planning a randomized controlled trial to corroborate how having a healthier diet would improve quality of semen. But men with baby-making on their minds don’t need to wait around for the results -- based on what we already know, we can conclude that eating a healthy balanced diet is a smart strategy for men and women who hope to be parents.

Source(s):

Jaime Mendiola, PhD, department of reproductive biology and medicine, Instituto Bernabeu, Alicante, and department of preventive medicine and public health, School of Medicine, University of Murcia, Spain.

Texas adds jobs again in November, jobless rate falls

Texas adds jobs again in November, jobless rate falls



Texas employers expanded payrolls by 17,300 jobs in November, the second straight month in which the state gained jobs, and the unemployment rate fell to 8 percent from 8.3 percent in October, the Texas Workforce Commission said Friday. The November jobs report amounted to some of the strongest evidence yet that the state economy has begun a recovery after plunging into recession about a year ago. Payroll employment grew by 52,300 jobs in October, according to revised figures released Friday. That was even more than the preliminary figure of 41,700 jobs. "Texas employers added a significant number of jobs in most industries during October and November," said Texas Workforce Commission chairman Tom Pauken. "Job growth coupled with a lower unemployment rate indicate movement in a positive direction for Texas." The U.S. economy as a whole has lost jobs every month since December 2007, although the pace of losses has slowed significantly in recent months. The national unemployment rate stood at 10 percent in November. In Texas, economists have cautioned that recovery might not be smooth. The state may yet lose jobs in the months to come. During November, however, mining and logging employment increased by 5,100 jobs. Leisure
and hospitality employment increased by 4,800 positions. Financial activities employment rose by 4,700 jobs, while employers added 3,300 positions in professional and business services added 3,300 positions. Jobs in trade, transportation and utilities, which includes the retail business, fell by 4,500. Employment in manufacturing fell by 4,200 jobs, while employers cut 2,500 construction jobs. Unemployment in the Dallas-Fort Worth area fell to 7.9 percent in November, down from 8.3 percent in October. Unemployment in Dallas-Fort Worth was only 5.6 percent in November 2008. The local figures on joblessness, unlike the state data, are not adjusted to reflect seasonal variations. Read on for more data on other states. There are also signs of gathering strength nationally: Thirty-six states and the District of Columbia reported unemployment rate decreases in November. That's according to this report from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Here's a ranking of the highest and lowest unemployment rates at the state level:


Highest


Michigan: 14.7 percent


Rhode Island: 12.7 percent


California: 12.3 percent


Nevada: 12.3 percent


South Carolina: 12.3 percent


Lowest


North Dakota: 4.1 percent


Nebraska: 4.5 percent


South Dakota: 5 percent


Kansas: 6.3 percent


Utah: 6.3 percent

40 albums that defined the decade

I think that I only have 4-5 of these albums so I must be getting old....
Dave

40 albums that defined the decade


By Phil Gallo LiveDaily Contributor


Ten years, 40 albums. Not necessarily the biggest sellers, the best-reviewed or year-end list-toppers, but the ones that had an impact on music, the business or culture. These are the albums of the '00s that signified the arrival of new voices, new ways to get music to listeners or new paths to take when crossing boundaries. A few familiar faces are in there as well. In the decade of digital and the dawn of an era in which music is consumed by cherry picking songs, these are albums, listed in alphabetical order, that played the role of game changers.


Ryan Adams, "Gold" (2001) The former leader of Whiskeytown followed his acoustic solo debut, "Heartbreaker," with an album that shed his alt-country kin and established him as a vital, independent voice whose vocabulary came straight from the classic rock of the mid-'70s. A triumph of technique, it set the table for Adams' prodigious output: 10 albums and two EPs in nine years.


Arcade Fire, "Funeral" (2004) Theatrical indie rock--at one time an oxymoron--became the Montreal band's stock in trade. The album was the first to make fans of intelligent, guitar-driven rock look north to Canada, where they found a superb band with a unique sound and a business model that shunned the traditional industry paradigm.

Arctic Monkeys, "Whatever People Say I Am, That's What I'm Not" (2006) The fastest selling debut album in UK history, it was released after the band had become an Internet sensation via the online release of MP3s. The group was the first to successfully circumvent the traditional label system--but certainly not the last.

The Beatles, "Mono Box" (2009) More than just a sonic improvement from the late-1980s releases, the mono editions of The Beatles' albums bore the Fab Four's stamp of approval as opposed to the stereo versions. In mono, "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band" and the white album provided the dramatic revelations in the reissue project.


Beyonce, "Dangerously in Love" (2003) Destiny's Child was as big an R&B act as existed when its lead singer stepped forward with a solo debut that broadened her sound and increased her fan base. The singles "Crazy in Love," "Baby Boy," "Me, Myself and I" and "Naughty Girl" were Top 10 staples in 2003 and '04.


Bright Eyes, "Lifted or The Story Is in the Soil, Keep Your Ear to the Ground" (2002) The first album to attract comparisons between Conor Oberst and Bob Dylan. A dramatic and sweeping--even epic--work, it announced the arrival of a significant talent who was only 22 at the time.


Johnny Cash, "American IV: The Man Comes Around" (2002) By the time Cash died on Sept. 12, 2003, his rebirth was so complete that acts in every genre--from gangster rap to Justin Timberlake--respected the Man in Black. "American IV" was producer Rick Rubin's finest production effort and included Cash's dramatic reading of Nine Inch Nails' "Hurt."

Cafe Tacuba, "Cuatro Caminos" (2003) The single most important band to rise out of the Spanish-language rock movement of the 1990s, "Cuatro Caminos" was the Mexican act's most significant--and most accessible--work to date. Few bands merge as many elements as Cafe Tacuba and maintain such a raw edginess to their sound.

Bob Dylan, "Love & Theft" (2001) Released on Sept. 11, 2001, album sales never hit the mark that was expected. Still, the album stands as Dylan's finest in decades and, upon release, played significantly in the revitalization of the singer's career.

Eagles, "Long Road Out of Eden" (2007) By being available at only one retailer--Walmart--and selling more than 700,000 copies in its first week, the first Eagles studio album in 28 years established the viability of exclusive releases.

Eminem, "The Marshal Mathers LP" (2000). It is arguable that the decade's rap masterpiece was released three months into the new millennium. With the massive global hits "Stan" and "The Real Slim Shady," Eminem emerged as the first polarizing rap artist whose support stretched across the ethnic and musical spectrum.

Feist, "1, 2, 3, 4" (2007)/Flaming Lips - "Do You Realize??" (2002) OK, so they're not albums--but they represent the power of a television commercial to drive album sales. Apple used Feist, Hewlett Packard turned to the Lips. And both acts not only survived claims of selling out, but her "The Reminder" and their "Yoshimi Battles the Oink Robots" saw sales spikes.

"Garden State" soundtrack (2004) A rare example of a soundtrack of pre-existing music that becomes a character in a film. Most of the music highlighted the vulnerability and indecision of the characters, which in turn made not only the music important, but the order in which it is played. The Shins, Zero 7 and Thievery Corporation gained new fans and Simon & Garfunkel's "The Only Living Boy in New York" was given a new life.


Gnarls Barkley, "St. Elsewhere" (2006) "Crazy," the best of the decade's ubiquitous records, seemingly made its way on nearly every radio format. Nothing else on the album sounds like "Crazy," a testament to the varied talents of Danger Mouse and Cee-lo Green, and the label realized it by refraining from releasing a second single until "Crazy" was out for nine months--a rare strategy.


Green Day, "American Idiot" (2004) After a few efforts that suggested Billie Joe Armstrong had matured, the Bay Area trio delivered this impressive concept album that pushed their songwriting to a new level. A punk-song cycle, the album has been turned into a stage musical that is likely to land on Broadway in 2010.

Keith Jarrett Trio, "My Foolish Heart" (2007) Jarrett celebrated the 25th anniversary of his trio with bassist Gary Peacock and drummer Jack DeJohnette by releasing this 2001 concert appearance in Montreux, Switzerland. Most bands don't stay together that long in any genre, and the ones that do rarely achieve the level of musicianship and communication that this trio, which only performs standards, has done for decades.

Jay-Z, "The Blueprint" (2001) Rivals "The Marshall Mathers LP" for rap album of the decade. The freshness and inventiveness in the rhymes and the beats are stunning--a dozen tracks, each as good as the next. First single "Izzo (H.O.V.A.)" sent a message that rap had a new kingpin; "The Blueprint" reinforced that point.

Norah Jones, "Come Away With Me" (2002) The album that made baby boomers want to buy CDs again, and they did so in droves. Not only did it sell 10 million copies, but it did so gradually--a rarity this decade--before running the table at the Grammy Awards.


Alicia Keys, "Songs in A Minor" (2001) It had all the trappings of hype at first--Clive Davis, who recorded her, could not talk about anyone else--but Keys has proven herself to be the complete artist, a rarity among R&B performers in the '00s. She keeps the focus on the music and away from dramas.


Miranda Lambert, "Crazy Ex-Girlfriend" (2007) The second album from the first star produced by the televised country singing competition "Nashville Star," Lambert proved to be a strong writer as well as singer. Funny thing is, she didn't win on "Nashville Star."


"Light in the Piazza" original cast album (2005) Adam Guettel's inventive score--filled with art songs and tone poems--indicated that musical theater does have an heir to Stephen Sondheim. In the land of "Spamalot," "Hairspray" and "Wicked," this proved Broadway can still succeed with the cerebral and risky.


New Pornographers, "Mass Romantic" (2000) The sprawling debut from the Canadian cooperative that gave us Neko Case, the record is chock full of songs that deserved to be hit singles. As we saw later in the decade, the concept of co-op bands such as Broken Social Scene can be remarkably fruitful.


Outkast, "Speakerboxxx/The Love Below" (2003) "Stankonia" is a better, more cohesive album, but this semi-collaboration between Andre 3000 and Big Boi was the disc that crossed over and had a cultural impact. The album gave the world "Hey Ya" and "The Way You Move."


Radiohead, "In Rainbows" (2007) The first major success story for a Do It Yourself project by an established band. They were the first major act to willfully ask each member of their fan base, "What is the financial value of our music?"


Radiohead, "Kid A." (2000) On many levels, the first taste of modern rock in the new millennium. Rich in assimilating influences from rock and dance clubs to create songs that follow few rules of form.


Sigur Ros, "()" (2002) The songs have no titles, the language is inscrutable and the tempos are quite similar to their sumptuous 1999 debut. But there's a power in the Sigur Ros sonic-sphere that's so distinctive, it opened domestic doors for acts recording in countries known for snow cover, 23 hour days of light or dark, and social welfare.


Spoon, "Girls Can Tell" (2001) This album was followed by three more albums in four years. Like an actor that makes four films per year and gets the term "working" attached to the front of their name, Spoon was the decade's ultimate working rock band, touring and recording seemingly endlessly and being rewarded with a bigger fan base after each release.


Bruce Springsteen, "The Rising." (2002) The post 9-11 balm that made believers out of everyone. It was almost against the law to criticize it.


Sufjan Stevens, "Illinoise" (2005) The breakthrough album for the folk-oriented singer-songwriter established his 50 states/50 albums project as more than a lark. Ambitious and earnest, "Illinoise" is a crucial indie-rock document.

Ali Farka Toure & Toumani Diabate, "In the Heart of the Moon" (2005) Guitarist Ali Farka Toure from Mali and kora player Toumani Diabate perform a mix of songs that date back to the 1950s and tunes written for the album to create a West African Buena Vista Social Club. (Not surprisingly, Ry Cooder is in the band.) Stunningly beautiful in places and technically jaw-dropping elsewhere, it's as good as anything produced in Africa this decade.


Carrie Underwood, "Some Hearts." (2005) The first "American Idol" winner to be taken seriously out of the box, she quickly became a darling of country radio. Underwood won two Grammys for songs on her debut and has blossomed away from "Idol" controls as a bona fide country star.


Vampire Weekend, "Vampire Weekend" (2008) Ivy League students try their hand at South African township jive and create an indie-rock gem. As debuts go, few arrived so fully formed as this.

Kanye West, "The College Dropout" (2004) The solo debut from the producer, West proved he could create his own hit singles, write compelling rhymes and deliver music that would quickly propel him to superstardom. In a genre with a limited number of "career artists," West deserved that tag the day "Dropout" dropped.


The White Stripes, "Elephant" (2003) The album that established Jack White as a rock star. Dark and gloomy yet laser-focused, it set the bruised and battered tone for The White Stripes.


Brian Wilson, "SMiLE" (2004) Finally. The follow-up to the Beach Boys' "Pet Sounds" was finished ... and it was magnificent.


Amy Winehouse, "Back To Black" (2006) For about two years, no artist was discussed more than Winehouse. Musically, she was a compelling force of nature; offstage, her private life was a disaster. How many other artists can have a rise, a fall and a shot at redemption within a year and half?


Wilco, "Yankee Hotel Foxtrot" (2002) Warner Bros. tells the band to get lost after turning in the most uncommercial record of their career, so they go to sister label Nonesuch and outsell every other Warner Music act during the week of the album's release. A landmark album to boot.


Neil Young, "Archives: 1963-1972" (2009) Released in three configurations, Young's multi-disc set was the first box to make a compelling case for Blu-Ray as an audio medium. Music's pretty damn good, too.


Warren Zevon, "The Wind." Not sure if a dying person has ever used their last months on earth to make a record besides Zevon. His final statement is divine, especially "Keep Me in Your Heart."

MY WIFE

In honor of Tiger Woods getting his butt whooped by his wife rencently for cheating on her I would like to share with you the lyrics to the classic Who song "My Wife".

My life's in jeopardy

Murdered in cold blood is what I'm gonna be

I ain't been home since Friday night

And now my wife is coming after me

Give me police protection

Gonna buy a gun so

I can look after number one

Give me a bodyguard

A back belt Judo expert with a machine gun

Gonna buy a tank and an aeroplane

When she catches up with me

Won't be no time to explain

She thinks I've been with another woman

And that's enough to send her half insane

Gonna buy a fast car

Put on my lead boots

And take a long, long drive

I may end up spending all my money

But I'll still be alive

All I did was have a bit too much to drink

And I picked the wrong precinct

Got picked up by the law

And now I ain't got time to think

Gonna buy a tank and an aeroplane

When she catches up with me

Won't be no time to explain

She thinks I've been with another woman

And that's enough to send her half insane

Gonna buy a fast car

Put on my lead boots

And take a long, long drive

I may end up spending all my money

But I'll still be alive

And I'm oh so tired of running

Gonna lay down on the floor

I gotta rest some time so

I can get to run some more

She's comin'!

She's comin'!

DOUG

A few weeks ago in the midst of having a garage sale I got a letter in the mail that broke my heart. It seems that my friend of 25 years, Doug Martin had recently lost his battle with Melanoma. I didn't even know that he was sick. I had talked to him awhile back and he did not even mention that he had been sick. Doug did not drink or smoke and got plenty or sleep and exercise so it was a shock that we was even sick let alone passed away.

I first meet Doug's brother, Cliff Martin and I spent sometime hanging out with him. In the process I got to know Doug and a long lasting friendship began. One of my earliest memories of Doug is when went to see "Iron Eagle". Doug loved the movie and did a high kick after the movie because he liked it so much! That was Doug to a T! Doug was "Brody" in the movie "Point Break" without the bank robbing. He was his own man and went to the beat of his own drum. I have fond memories of going to the gym with Doug, playing Chess (he taught me how to play), long nights playing Risk, Doug's date to Orio's Halloween party, going to the movies, Doug helping my sister, Jenafer with math, my Mom asking Doug the "submarine" question while playing Trivial Pursuit one night, spending time in Las Vegas, long conversations on just about anything in life, Doug hanging out at YA activities and so many more memories! More so then anything Doug was a good friend no matter what. He would help you in anyway that he could and did not judge others. It is nice to have a good friend both in the good times and the bad.

Letter from Doug's Mom

This is a letter that Doug wrote to me back when I was trying to be a DJ. The letter means more to me then any gift that he could have given me on that Christmas so long ago.

A few pictures of Doug. I do not have a lot because Doug did not like having his picture taken. He is the one with the mustache.

7 Steps to a Longer Life

7 Steps to a Longer Life



As we get older and presumably wiser, many of us cringe at some of our former bad health habits -- whether cigarette smoking, overindulgence in food and drink, sun worship or even reckless behavior on the ski slopes that has made middle-aged knees sore and stiff. Though not all damage can be undone, according to Mark Goldstein, MD, chief of adolescent and young adult medicine at Massachusetts General Hospital and coauthor with Myrna Chandler Goldstein and Larry Credit of Your Best Medicine, it is indeed possible to revise some aspects of your bad health history by emphasizing particularly important healthful habits now. "It’s never too late to make changes that will bring about better health," he says.

Weighing in


If you are or were obese, you’re at risk for a host of diseases, including type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, coronary artery disease, stroke, sleep apnea and osteoarthritis. Yet, despite the known risks, we’re in the midst of an obesity epidemic. About one in three Americans is obese and, among those between ages 50 and 60, that figure may be twice as high.


Although being or having been underweight for long periods of time is less prevalent than being overweight, it’s also a potential problem. "Under-nourishment or self-starvation is common in this country, especially for people who have body image issues or exercise excessively," says Dr. Goldstein. "Those who had an eating disorder earlier in life may pay a price with their health later on." For instance, the heart may pump less efficiently, causing blood pressure to fall. What’s more, bones become undercalcified and too thin, creating the likelihood that osteoporosis will develop. Hormone-related issues may arise due to such a history as well, including infertility and thyroid and adrenal disorders.

Good nutrition is key

Good nutrition is important for everyone, but especially for those who know they face certain health challenges as the result of dietary changes in their past. In addition to consuming a sensible number of calories, avoiding excess sugar and salt, and eating healthful foods, such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains, Dr. Goldstein suggests the following foods for their wide-ranging benefits...

Garlic. Studies have shown that garlic lowers blood pressure, reduces LDL cholesterol while raising HDL cholesterol, and also may help prevent Alzheimer’s disease. Garlic, which contains several antioxidants, also boosts the immune system and helps fight fatigue. The recommended daily "dose" of fresh garlic is two to three cloves.


Pomegranate. Another superfood, pomegranate juice contains antioxidants in much higher levels than do other fruit juices. A recent study showed that drinking six ounces of pomegranate juice every day for three months reduced the risk of developing atherosclerosis. Another study found that eight ounces of pomegranate juice daily may help slow the progression of prostate cancer.


Tea. Both black and green tea contain powerful antioxidants that prevent narrowing of the arteries, reduce blood pressure and help keep cholesterol in the normal range. Drink three cups a day.


Bone-building foods, such as walnuts, oysters, leafy greens, beans (black, white and pinto) and salmon.


Bananas. People with a history of an eating disorder may be left with imbalanced electrolyte levels, which can lead to potassium deficiency, increasing risk for heart arrhythmia, stroke and death.


Dried plums (prunes) may have a health benefit for osteopenia and osteoporosis, according to studies in laboratory animals.


Other strategies


Get plenty of sleep. "Sleep deprivation can lead to problems, such as high blood pressure and mood disorders like depression, that can make you more vulnerable to illness and injury," says Dr. Goldstein. Insufficient sleep has been linked to a variety of cardiovascular risks, including diabetes. "Lack of sleep also can disrupt the hormones that control appetite, leading to overeating." Getting plenty of sleep, on the other hand, helps tissue repair, proper immune system function, memory and concentration. The ideal amount of sleep is seven to eight hours per night.


Exercise regularly. Everyone needs to exercise. Period. It lowers blood pressure, slows heart rate and improves arterial flow. It also may reduce plaque deposits, reversing atherosclerotic disease. Exercise is, of course, important for losing weight and managing stress. One study showed that people who exercised intensely enough to cause breathlessness for 20 to 30 minutes at least twice a week cut their risk for Alzheimer’s and dementia by 50%.


Avoid excessive caffeine. Caffeine may clear your head after a restless night, but too much of it can cause elevated heart rate and high blood pressure. Caffeine also increases the body’s production of stress hormones, placing you at greater risk for cardiovascular problems and aggravating anxiety symptoms. For some people, as few as two cups of coffee can cause rapid heartbeat, sweating and shakiness. Remember, caffeine is found not just in regular coffee, but also in tea, chocolate, cocoa, soft drinks and some over-the-counter medications.

Manage stress. When you are stressed, your body releases hormones that narrow blood vessels and increase heart rate. As a result, blood pressure rises temporarily. And, if you are frequently stressed, your blood pressure can stay high, potentially damaging (possibly permanently) the brain, kidneys, heart, eyes or arteries. There’s also a link between stress and overeating, gum disease, hair loss, fatigue, sexual dysfunction and many other problems. To combat stress, Dr. Goldstein suggests trying yoga, meditation, tai chi and/or deep breathing. These calming relaxation techniques help reduce heart rate and blood pressure.


Limit sun exposure. Besides increasing your risk for skin cancer, ongoing direct exposure of the eyes to sunlight increases risk of cataracts. To prevent cataracts, wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses that block out 100% of UVA and UVB rays and filter out at least 85% of blue-violet rays. However, try to get 15 minutes of sunlight each day to obtain an adequate amount of vitamin D.


Take care of your gums. Gum disease is extremely common and is linked to an ever-lengthening list of ills, including respiratory infection, cancer, coronary artery disease and stroke. Behaviors that can impact gums include tobacco smoking or chewing, poor oral hygiene and use of certain medications, including steroids, oral contraceptives and cancer therapy. To prevent gum disease, drink at least eight glasses of water every day so your mouth can produce enough saliva, which can be helpful in reducing inflammation. Replace your toothbrush monthly -- a worn brush is less effective at removing plaque -- and floss. Get an adequate amount of vitamin C in your diet. Vitamin C deficiency is linked to gum disease. And cut down on sugar, which helps plaque-producing bacteria to multiply.


As the saying goes, "today is the first day of the rest of your life." The healthier you make yourself, the better your life will be.




Mark Goldstein, MD, chief of adolescent and young adult medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, professor of pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston.