My Friend has Superbug MRSA, Please Pray!

A friend of mine has a Superbug - community-associated MRSA, or CA-MRSA. She has had emergency surgery. The wound was infected. She is on maga antibiotics now. The doctor will get the test results soon, and find out if the antibiotics are working, or not. Today she told me that she felt VERY sick. She could only eat half of one of her favorite sandwiches. I am asking everyone to please pray for her. If your not into praying then please send her your good thoughts, and wishes. She has had more then her share of physical problems. She will see the Doctor soon. Thank you!

UPDATE: She saw her Doctor. The antibiotics she was taking didn't do the trick. She is on new antibiotics, and they hope that it will not go to the BONE. Ekk!

Twitter and People on My Blogroll

Have you heard about Twitter? It's a cool way to stay connected though short messages. A way to network, and publicize your blog, or anything else. I found out that FatDoctor accidentally erased her blog through Twitter. It only takes a moment to join. I have a new Twitter Wedget on my blog, you can join, and follow me on Twitter that way. Or you can just click here. But be careful it's almost as addictive as Blogging! I thought that I would Twitter about the wonderful people that are on my blogroll list, and spread some link love too.

The two most frequent, and faithful at commenting are Moments Of Randomness, and Sheep and Goats. (by Tom sheepandgoats). Thanks guys! Against the Grain, written by a lesbian who won an historic and precedent setting ruling which says that all legal same-sex marriages must be recognized in New York State. Yahoooo! Thanks Pat, and Lisa! And So It Goes On - A caregiver in Michigan who has an obvious flair for writing, and a good heart. Debo Hobo dot Com - She just had a birthday. Can you guess her age? If you can you just might win a $10 Amazon.com gift card. Check out her post dated March 13, 2008. Dr. Deb is a Psychologist. I'm not big on therapists, but I would like to be on her couch. Ahh, no Freudian slip intended. dcr Blogs- A smart cookie who likes to blog about blogging, and other things. I've learned from him. Eastcoastlife has a very popular blog. I'm learning about Singapore from her.

Forging Iron Man - He's a nursing student, into martial arts, and cancer survivor. We have several things in common- Christianity, Health Care, and Star Trek. We have had our disagreements, but work though them, (see link below). He's a good guy. Lady Banana is a cheeky Brit who has an addiction problem. She blogs about it openly. Laurensfitness.com - I wish I could hire her as my personal trainer. I could have used this info when I was a vegetarian. Living Our Dream is about a couple from my area who sold everything they owned and purchased a boat. They have been traveling around the world for 3 years. Now that's living!

If you want a good laugh visit Odd Planet. which has humorous news stories, dumb criminals, odd people, and funny pictures. The Isle of Kevin- A brit with a very funny blog. Trying to Catch the Wind - She's from my area, a substitute teacher and an animal care assistant. Way Khool Sites has the most interesting websites listed in her blog. She lives in Hawaii. About a Nurse is the newest addition to my blog family. It's amazes me how well she treats her patients. Beth Allen ll Recommended blogger to me. Google Blogger has worked well for me, and blogging is additive. I now have a general rule to only put one blog site up per person, but back then I blogrolled 2 other of Beth's sites - Beth Allen Inc. and Writing 5 to 9.

So please visit my blogroll friends, tell them that Awake In Rochester sent you. And I would love it if you joined me on Twitter!

I have posted about some of you-

Monroe County to appeal same-sex ruling

As a Bible College graduate why can't you see that Homosexuality is a sin?

FatDoctor.org: Erased? Her Blog Erased?

UPDATED- FatDoctor.org: Erased? Her Blog Erased?

UPDATED- SHE'S BACK! ... The problem is solved, she now has all of her posts. FatDoctor is now back online with a new blog! Please stop over and say hi, give her your suport. Reconstructing a blog must be a pain in the butt. Tell her that I sent you ;o)

http://fatdoctor.blogspot.com/

My blog buddy FatDoctor of FatDoctor.org posted this on Twitter yesterday.... "Accidentally erased my whole blog. And I don't have a backup. No sense crying - it's not like a family member dying...or is it?" It was a shock to me. She had one of the best blogs I have ever seen, and is a very sweet, caring, down to earth person.

I have been working closely with FatDoctor, and managed to retrieve most of her posts, but without the graphics. I would like her to be able to retrieve ALL her posts, or her blog. I'm not very computer savvy, and am running out of ideas. So I am asking for your help. If you have any ideas on how she can get her blog back, or posts, please leave a comment. I have her e-mail, but will not give it out due to privacy issues. However, I will drop her an e-mail, and let her know about your comments.

As you many know my blog is only a few months old, so currently I don't have a huge following. I am asking that you consider telling your readers about her dilemma. Maybe creating a post about it. She is not the first one who has lost a blog, and will not be the last. I think that we can all sympathize with her.

I have heard that whatever has been placed on the internet never really gets erased, and can be retrieved. We would appreciate your help.

Rochester N.Y. Weather - Snow Storm !

Yes, Rochester is going to have another snow storm. We are still having winter weather here. We have enjoyed a few days above freezing, but here we go again. The early daylight savings time has thrown me off. It feels like we should have spring weather. The storm won't be bad. Nothing we can't handle. But don't put your snow shovels away yet.

Forecast-

Evening Rain and Snow Mixed, Low 30° WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY IN EFFECT FOR ALL OF WESTERN NEW YORK FROM 8PM THURSDAY UNTIL NOON FRIDAY A mix of rain and wet snow arriving this evening, then changing to wet snow overnight. Much of the area should see 2-4" of snow by morning, but further south of Rochester, in the higher elevations, 4-8" of heavy, wet snow is possible by morning.
Tomorrow Mostly Cloudy with Snow, High 35°, Low 22° WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY IN EFFECT UNTIL NOON TODAY Steady snow will taper to snow showers through the day, but not before additional accumulations occur.
------------------------

On T.V. they said the higher the elevation the more snow. The higher areas in the Finger lakes could get up to 10 inches of snow. Some power outages, and falling tree limbs are expected there.

Information from: 13 WHAM

Wordless Wednesday

My Worst Easter

The following story has been altered in order to protect the confidentiality of the patient, and family members. This topic may not be suitable for young people.

This Sunday many have been my worst Easter ever. I worked in the nursing home that morning. I was assigned a 1 on 1 case. Before I walked in I received report from the Nurse on duty... "Joe is a dying patient. He had stopped eating, and drinking. Joe is in his late 80's, unresponsive, and had the death rattle, (chain stokes breathing), with slight modeling to one small area on one of his legs. He is DNR (do not resuscitate), and on hospice care." The Nurse added that she didn't believe that Joe would die on our shift.

The family was obviously grieving, but were as nice as could be. His daughter Julie came up to me immediately, and introduced herself, and her brother Sam. Throughout the shift they included me in the conversation, and even offered me some food that they had brought in. You could tell that they were both caring, down to earth people.

Throughout the shift I made sure that Joe received the best of care. I bathed him, put lotion on him, changed his gown, oral care, frequent repositioning. You know the works. When that family left to have lunch I read to Joe from his favorite book, and talked to him.

In my 20 years as a C.N.A. I have seen scores of dying patients. I have witnessed the death of about a half dozen or so. This was not foreigner to me. I noticed that Joe had some strength. He wasn't limp when I turned him. Also his breathing was very regular. I didn't need to count his reparations, but did often. They were always around 14 which was average. I concluded that Joe was to strong to die during my shift. I silently agreed with Nurse Julie's assessment. Of course I didn't tell the family that. Being an Aide, I was in no position to do so, besides it is all subjective.

Later in the shift the Nurse came in, and gave Joe his Morphine. I wish that I had looked at the clock, because that is when the change occurred. Minutes later there were several changes. Over a period of about 20 minutes Joe seem to weaken, his jaw dropped, his breathing changed. Breathing wise, he went on automatic. That's what I call it. It's the very slight difference between an unresponsive patient having some input into his breathing, to no input. It was like he was no longer in control, and part of him seemed gone. I can't describe it other then that.

The family had gathered around the bed, talking to him, and holding his hands. They were both crying. Joe soon stopped breathing, about 30 seconds later he was white as a sheet. Joe was gone. It happened so fast. I remember looking up just above Joe's head, half expecting to see his spirit, or feel his spiritual presents. It happened so fast, that I wondered if he was hovering over his body for a few seconds. But I saw/felt no ghost.

My eyes filled up. It caught me off guard. I didn't expect him to die. I muttered a few words to the family in a fruitless attempt to comfort. I have never been good at that. I never know what to say. My voice cracked as I spoke. I was on the verge of crying, but needed to get a hold of myself. I had learned professional distancing. Usually I could hold back the tears until I got home. That's something that you learn in this business, but still it is very difficult sometimes. Losing a patient is always hard.

Julie the Nurse came in. I couldn't help but wonder if she had killed Joe by administering the Morphine. I knew that the doctor ordered it, but she did administer it. There are some days that I am glad I didn't finish Nursing school.

Morphine is often given to dying patients in order to control pain. It can change breathing patterns, and decrease the respiration rate. It is somewhat controversial. I have heard discussions though out the years. Some Nurses refused to give the P.R.N. med, because they feel that it could kill the patient. Other Nurses give the Morphine to make sure the patient is comfortable.

When I was in my early 20's taking care of my mother who was dying of cancer, one of my mothers meds was Morphine. None of the hospice Nurses told me that it possibly could hasten my mothers death. They should have! The family should always know. Fortunately, I know from the circumstances that it was not the Morphine that killed mom. Otherwise I would feel guilt stricken even to this day. You would think that after all these years, they would have found a drug that could be effective for relieving pain without affecting the breathing. Yes, there are days that I am glad I am not a Nurse. They have to make some very difficult choices.

When I got home I received an e-mail from a friend. She had contracted a Superbug, and had to go into the hospital for surgery. Yes, this Easter was my worst Easter ever.


Additional reading:
Dying and Death in a Nursing Home

HAPPY EASTER! The Easter Song by 2nd Chapter of Acts

This song brings back memories. It was written in 1974, but I never heard it until I was in Bible College. It was one of my favorites. It was written during a time in which they had the best Christian music that I have ever heard. It was during the era called Jesus movement. Enjoy!


The Easter Song by 2nd Chapter of Acts

Cute Joke

“The Bible contains six admonishments to homosexuals, and 362 to heterosexuals. This doesn’t mean God doesn’t love heterosexuals, it’s just that they need more supervision.”
~ Lynn Lavner, a lesbian comic

As a Bible College graduate, why can't you see that Homosexuality is a sin?

One of my blog buddies Scott, left an interesting comment on my "Ellen DeGeneres Calls State Representative Sally Kern" post.

Here is part of his comment-

"I'm sorry, but I disagree. Maybe the Representative went a little far, but I fully believe the essence of what she was saying. The Bible is VERY clear that homosexuality is a sin. I am confused how you DON'T see it that way if you've been to Bible College. Of course I don't think it is any worse of a sin than anything else that God considers sin. I was a drunk for 6 years; I believe that when I was sinning in that manner, it was just as offensive to God as if I had been gay. Personally, I don't see why it is a sin, but I am going to go with the Bible on this. It is not MY place to judge, but if the Bible is the inspired Word of God, how can we overlook the passages that say being gay is detestable in the Lord's eyes?"
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Well Scott, you got my synapses firing with that comment. I don't know how long you have been a Christian, or what denomination you are. But I will try to answer you in what I believe is the best way for you, and for anyone who may be reading this.

The Bible might be written in black and white, but it is difficult to interpret. The Bible is 66 books written by about 40 authors over a period about 1500 years. It was written in a different time, county, language, and very different customs. Studying the Bible, and being familiar with these differences are imperative to the understanding of it.

Years ago, I made a serious study of homosexuality. I had been listening to much to others, which confused me because I heard dogmatic teaching both pro, and con. Ministers seemed to vehemently believe that they were correct, and determined to prove others wrong. I was searching for the truth, and was getting no where. So I decided to make a study for myself. I knew that it would be tedious work, numerous hours, but took on the task.

First I wrote down the main scriptures that I thought had to do with homosexuality. It was awhile back. I used books not a computer. I read each passage, chapter, and became familiar with them. I read the main verses in 6 different Bible versions writing them all down. That was interesting in itself. For example. In 1 Corinthians 6:9 the Greek word Malakos is translated- effeminate (KJV), male prostitute (NIV), is a pervert (Promise) and homosexuals (Living Bible). So which one was it?

I had to find out what was meant by going back to the original language of the Bible, Old Testament Hebrew, New Testament Greek. I'm not a Greek, or Hebrew scholar so need to use some very good study books. I used The New Strong's Exhaustive Concordance of Bible, W.E. Vine Expository Dictionary both Old and New Testament, and Nelsons Expository Dictionary of the Old Testament by Unger, and White. What I found was fascinating. For example the word Sodomite in my American dictionary means male homosexual, but the definition in the original language is very different.

During a study of the history, I realized that in some cases the main theme was prostitutes who worshiped idols by having sex, (including homosexual sex). This is sometimes refereed to as shrine prostitution, or religious prostitution. Excerpt from Today's Handbook of Bible Times and Customs by William L. Coleman - "The pagan religious that surrounded and contaminated Israel's history frequently practiced some form of cult prostitution, usually centered on the theme of fertility. . . One means of pleasing the fertility gods was to engage in sex with the female or male prostitutes available at the temple. As bizarre as this may sound, the practice was common; it endured into New Testament times and frequently was assimilated into the worship of Jehovah "

The key in understanding the Bible is to make a serious study for yourself, trying to keep an open mind, open heart, and with prayer.

I have several books on how to study the Bible. Unfortunately I don't have one very good book. Therefore, I will compare them, and show you several recommends. The majority of these recommendations are widely accepted. You may be able to find many of these books over the internet.

The study books emphasis that before you study a book of the Bible, read a summery about it. (Bible study guides). You should know 1. Who- Who is writing the book, and who is it being written to. 2. Location. 3. Main Events 4. Major Ideas 5. When it was written.

BIBLE STUDY TOOLS-

It's good to have at least one in each category. You can fine may of these tools listed in the "On-line Bible Study Tools" section below. (If this section seems overwhelming go to the bottom and read the "Shortcut Version of Bible Study Tools.")

Study Bibles

Scofield Reference Bible, Ryrie Study Bible, NIV Study Bible, Life Application Bible.

Bible Handbooks

Eerdmans, plus Bruce & Stan's Guide to the Bible, are my personal favorites. Halley's, Unger's.

Concordance

Strong's Concordance, Young's Concordance, Cruden's Concordance.

Bible Dictionary

New Compact Bible Dictionary by Bryant, New Bible Dictionary by Douglas, Unger's Bible Dictionary.

Commentaries

Unger's, Jameson Faucett Brown, Matthew Henry, Wycliffe

Bible Manors and Customs

Eerdman's Family Encyclopedia, Haper's Encyclopedia of Bible Life, Manners and Customs of Bible Lands.

Meaning of Words, (no knowledge of Greek or Hebrew necessary.)

As stated before in my study - Strong's and Nelson's. Vine's (old and new testament). Vine died before he could finish his book on the Old Testament, it's excellent, but incomplete. That's why I bought Nelson's, to supplement. Nelson's is a gem, my favorite. It's best to use all these books, or the equivalent because this study is heavy on original language. If I had to choose only one I would chose Strong's. It's complete. It has both Old and New Testament, and is wildly accepted. However, I find having a second set, with the authors comments, improves my understanding.

METHODS OF BIBLE STUDY

How to study the Bible - A good comprehensive teaching. An excellent website!

The Eight Rules of Bible Interpretation - Good practical tips to always keep in mind.


ONLINE BIBLE STUDY TOOLS

Top 4 On-line Bible Search

Bible Toolbox

Bible.org

The Unbound Bible

crosswalk.com

Bonus- rbc Ministries - Good devotionals

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

SHORTCUT VERSION OF BIBLE STUDY TOOLS
(Bible Study, a less comprehensive method.)

It's good to read "The Eight Rules of Bible Interpretation" and keep them in mind when studying. Go to crosswalk.com . Use the search tools to find the scriptures that you want to study. Read several Bible translations. You can read various references like dictionaries, commentaries, concordances, etc. BiBlos.com may be a better site for a word study.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

If you want to make a lighter, or everyday, Bible study about something, then you don't need as many Bible study tools. (See link- How to study the Bible, second paragraph) But if you want to really dig into the meat of the word, especially difficult portions of scripture, then I would advise using more Bible study tools, as I have listed. I had a pastor who used to repeatedly say, "In order to understand the Bible you need to know the 1.) Context, and keep it in context 2.) History 3) Original Language." He didn't mean that you need to be fluent in Greek, and Hebrew, but have the study tools to find out what actually was being said. If you look at the link "The Eight Rules of Bible Interpretation", it has those three elements included, and are good rules to keep in mind.

THE FINAL WORD by Rev. Dr. Kathlyn James
"The only way we will arrive at a consensus on how this question should be answered is by taking time, over the coming year, to examine ourselves, study the Bible, think, read, pray, listen, and share our diverse life experiences with each other, asking together what God is calling this congregation to do and be."

Some Bible study material was from- How to Study the Bible and Enjoy It by skip Heitzig, How to Study The Bible For Yourself by Tim LaHaye, and Guide To Understanding Your Bible by Josh McDowell. Mr. McDowell has a huge list of Bible study book helps in the back of his book. Many that I was not able to mention. The list that I gave was basic, not comprehensive.

Disclaimer: Even though I have posted many online links, and mentioned many books that does not mean that I agree with everything said in those books, or links.


Related Post: What I believe about Homosexuality and the Bible

Rochester Gay Man Beaten Unconscious

Rochester, N.Y. is suppose to be one of the most tolerant cities, but you wouldn't know it sometimes. Look at this mans face. When they find his attacker, I hope that they lock him up for a very long time.

Hate crime victim talks about the attack.

He said he was beat up until he was unconscious because he's gay, and police agree. Now police are looking to arrest a suspect in what they're calling a hate crime. News 10NBC talked exclusively with the victim.

Lance Neve said he was in the bar minding his own business and was then attacked.

"I was punched and I went to the floor," Lance said. "He continued to beat my head into the floor." Lance Neve doesn't remember much until he woke up at Strong Hospital. "With a tube down my throat and my arms tied to the bed," Lance said.

Mr. Neve has a surprising reaction. See more including video at the link.

Update March 17th-

The jerk turned himself in. Jesse Parsons turned himself in to Ogden Police. On the TV they said that Parsons has been in jail before. The attack left Lance Neve with a fractured skull, a broken nose as well as multiple bruises. Parsons is currently in jail and held on $15,000 bail. He is scheduled to be in court on Thursday.

Ellen DeGeneres Calls State Representative Sally Kern

Homophobic Oklahoma State Representative Sally Kern was called by Ellen DeGeneres.

Let me give you a brief background on this story first. In a small meeting Oklahoma State Representative Sally Kern made some homophobic remarks. She said that homosexuality was the biggest threat, worse "then terrorism or Islam". She also said that gays "want to indoctrinate two year olds", and other very young students.

Apparently Ms. Kern was unaware that her speech was being recorded. It became very popular on YouTube. That is how Ellen DeGeneres found out about it. Ellen, (my hero), played the recording on her show, and decided to call the "misinformed" Sally Kern. I won't spoil the ending for you. You can watch it yourself. I originally saw the first YouTube video on the blog Against the Grain owned by my new blog buddy, the notorious ;o) Patricia Martinez.

The YouTube video "Republican Hate Speech"



Ellen DeGeneres' response to Ms. Kern

Williamson High Closed Friday Due To Flu Illnesses

Williamson High school was closed today due to the Flu. As many as 25 percent of the school's 420 students and several faculty and staff are currently out sick. All weekend activities are also canceled, so the building can be cleaned and sanitized. Williamson High school is located in Williamson, N.Y., Wayne county about 30 miles East of Rochester.

According to what I heard on the news, Wayne county is at the peak of their flu season. Monroe county, (where Rochester is), has just passed peak flu season.

Poll results- gay marriage, NEW Gov. Eliot Spitzer Poll

Eliot Spitzer poll is next. Perhaps I should have phrased that another way. ;o)

I want to thank everyone who participated in my last poll. 27 people participated, which is good considering this is a new blog. It was a 2 week poll. Here are the results...

Q. Where do you stand on same-sex marriage?

22 people (81%) said Gays should have the right to legally marry.
2 people(7%) said Civil Unions, but not gay marriage.
2 people (7%) said Domestic partnership with limited legal rights.
1 person (3%) Gay partnership should not have legal rights and should not be acknowledged.

I realize that the percentages don't exactly add up, but those were the result given. Close enough.

The next poll is a short 5 day poll concerning New York State Governor Eliot Spitzer. I thought it was appreciate to have a quick, short poll. Please leave your comments here concerning Gov. Spitzer.

Spitzer Jokes

David Letterman's Top 10 Eliot Spitzer Excuses

"Eliot Spitzer admitted publicly that he was involved in a prostitution ring, which means Hillary Clinton, now, only the second angriest wife in the state of New York." --Jay Leno

"Gov. Spitzer responded just a few hours ago. He said, quote, 'I violated my obligations to my family and I violated my sense of what is right and wrong.' Spitzer also admitted violating someone named Amber." --Conan O'Brien

"This is the guy who vowed to clean up New York. But to be fair, he did bring prostitution to its knees one girl at a time." --Jay Leno

"The thinking is the governor may step down now to spend less time with his family. The good thing is, he was caught soliciting a hooker, but on the bright side, it did not involve an airport men's room." --David Letterman


Joke credit and more jokes here
Daily Show video on Spitzer

New York State Gov. Eliot Spitzer Is Linked to Prostitution Ring

Gov. Eliot Spitzer, who gained national prominence relentlessly pursuing Wall Street wrongdoing, has been caught on a federal wiretap arranging to meet with a high-priced prostitute at a Washington hotel last month, according to a law enforcement official and a person briefed on the investigation....

Continued - The New York Times

Betsy and Linda (Office Talk)

Linda walked into Betsy's office.

I haven't heard from you in a while. I hope that every thing's all right, Linda said.

Betsy flashed Linda an angry look, then said, I didn't want you to be a friend. I just wanted us to be acquaintances.

Linda replied. I did try. I truly did, but it didn't work. We aren't strangers. We didn't just meet. We knew one other years ago. We were lovers. We were good friends, maybe best friends. You weathered a storm to be with me. You asked me to move in with you. You told me that you were in love with me. Betsy, we have history together.

I know that you are hurting at this point of your life. You have major intimacy issues. You have suffered loses. Sorting out past abuse. You have been hurt, and are very bitter, and angry. I understand why you want to distance yourself, but I can't pretend. I can't act like a stranger to someone whom I shared so much. I care about you, and you don't know how to handle it. Now, don't panic. I'm not in love with you. I don't want to become lovers again. But I do care, and have a connection to you, history with you. I do now, and always will. So I can't pretend to be mere acquaintances. I can't pretend that I don't know you. I have never been good at pretending.

Betsy replied, That was many years ago. People change. You don't know me.

Linda said, People do change. We have had different experiences. Both of us have changed, but basically we are still the same people down deep inside. Doesn't psychology say that our personality is formed when we are young? Basically I am still me, and you are still you.

I know it was a long time ago, but our relationship was significant. It happened. Just because you think you might be straight now, and have been though difficulties, doesn't mean that "we" didn't happen. It doesn't mean that you can negate the fact that we were lovers, and good friends.

You once told me that you were more terrified of me, then of the person who abused you. Your terrified because I care. You have difficulty with intimacy. You want to sweep it all under the rug. You want to abolish our passed.

Betsy, I can't deny our passed relationship. I can't make the jump to being just acquaintances because we're not. We are more then that.

Linda left the room, and as she did she kept the door open a crack.

Related Post: I have Evidence!

"Souper Spices" Products by Barbara Tranello

My cousin is selling wonderful 100 percent organic herbs and spices called Souper Spices. They have no sodium. No MSG. They are convenient, economical, and easy. Personally I prefer organic herbs, and spices. Not only are they better for you, but the taste is sooo much better! Once you try them, you won't go back. My cousin who is a fabulous cook, even includes a free recipe along with every Souper Spice mix that you purchase. She even has delicious recipes at her website! If you read this local Democrat and Chronicle newspaper article it will tell you all about it. You can also check it out right now at her web-site.

Click here for Souper Spices...Tell her that "Awake In Rochester" sent you!

If Allowed, Florida, Michigan Could Tip Nomination

• Story Highlights
• Florida, Michigan stripped of delegates for scheduling primaries too early
  
• States have 366 Democratic delegates -- enough to put a candidate over the top
  
• Clinton, Obama running tight race; likely won't clinch nomination before convention
  
• Party leaders fighting to get their state delegates seated

Florida and Michigan could go from having no say in the Democratic nominating process to deciding the nominee if their states' political leaders succeed in getting their delegates seated.

The Democratic National Committee stripped both states of their delegates for violating party rules by scheduling their primaries too early.

But Sens. Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama are running such a tight race that it looks like neither candidate will get the 2,024 delegates needed to clinch the nomination. If Florida and Michigan count, their delegates could put either candidate over the top. The states have 366 pledged delegates and superdelegates between them.

Florida Gov. Charlie Crist says "common sense would dictate that every vote should count.

"The argument that we are making is that the people of our respective states voted. They cast that precious right. They made their voice heard, and those delegates who represent them should be seated at both conventions," Crist said on CNN's "American Morning." ... Continued...

Read the whole story at... CNN Politics

Similar Story... Democratic Party debates primary do-overs in Michigan and Florida

Picture credit

UPDATED: (Monday 10th) - MAJOR STORM - ROCHESTER

ONE FOOT OF SNOW IS COMING TO ROCHESTER. It's 11:30 Thursday night. I have just listened to all 3 local weather reports on the news. This is a brief summery of them...

There is a winter storm watch in effect from Friday afternoon through Sunday morning. Approximately 12 inches of snow is coming to Rochester. We will also have some frozen precipitation in the form of sleet and freezing rain. The snow fall total is difficult to predict because the more frozen precipitation, the less snow we will get. They think about a foot. N.W. Monroe county by the lake should get more snow. This storm is similar to the one we got around Feb. 27. This will be a prolonged event Starting Friday into Sunday. Saturday will be the worst day. Actually there are two snow storms in this time period. I have post the links to all 3 local stations below, but as of now they have not updated to reflect the latest forecast.

Local Weather Links
WHAM 13 Weather
Rochester Homepage.Net News 8
News 10 WHEC

Saturday 11:30 P.M. Update-

If you can stay at home please do so, the roads are treacherous. The official Rochester snowfall as of 5:00 p.m. is 9.1 inches at the airport, 8 to 20 inches across the area. Plus sleet, and freezing rain which makes for slippery road conditions. Winds gusts of 30 to 40 mph.with whiteouts add to the problem. Dozens of accidents have been reported, including 2 teens from Henrietta that died in a weather-related car crash.

The weather caused several cancellations at Rochester airport. We have had scattered power outages. Many local events have been canceled due to the weather. And the storm is not over. We are in the beginning of the next phase, or some say the next storm.

Rochester, and surrounding areas have been hit by all kinds of precipitation- hail, freezing rain, sleet, snow, even thunder, and lightning in the gates area. It just depends what area you live in. We either got hail, or freezing rain here. I could hear it pounding rapidly against the window. There are many weather alerts out, and they are changing all the time. It's best to click the links above for the latest. The worst of the storm is this evening into Sunday morning. According to WROC ch. 8 on T.V. we should get 5 to 8 inches MORE of snow in the Rochester area, 8 to10 inches more near the lake. The storm should taper off tomorrow, but it will be colder. Due to the wind there will be white outs making driving tricky tomorrow. Use extra caution.

When it's all over snow fall totals are expected to be 12-18" in the Rochester area. 18-24 N.W. near the lake, and 8-12 towards the finger lakes. That's according to WHEC news 10. Wow!

SUNDAY UPDATE: 15.7 inches is the official storm snowfall total at the Rochester airport. (Wolcott 15", Hamlin 21", Gaines 24"). Yes, it's over for now, but they say that another storm is coming Friday. UG!

STORM AFTEREFFECTS:
~16,000 in central and eastern N.Y. still without power. "Power has been restored to some areas. The situation is still bad." "Warming centers" are open.

~ Winter weather clean-up begins.

~ Students at Rush-Henrietta deal with loss of two classmates. Their deaths are thought to be related to the storm.

~ Tow truck driver encountered "quite a few accidents", ..."very, very, busy non stop."

Personal note- I've been very fortunate this winter. I have only had one power outage, and that lasted only a few hours. You might wonder why I'm so interested in storms. On March 3-4, 1999, Rochester had a blizzard. We had 24.3" of snow within 24 hours. It was the second greatest snowfall here within 24-hour period. The blizzard was not forecast. I went to work, and was snowed in at work for 36 hours. The facility was good to us, but I much rather have been home. It was no picnic.

cartoon credit

Hillary Clinton Ad Featuring Jack Nicholson (endorsement)

Jack Nicholson endorses Hillary Clinton in this ad. This is so cleaver, and funny, no wonder it is gaining popularity on YouTube!


Title on You Tube: "Jack and Hill"

Big Wins for Clinton in Texas and Ohio; McCain won G.O.P. Choice

Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton defeated Senator Barack Obama in the Ohio and Texas primaries on Tuesday, ending a string of defeats and allowing her to soldier on in a Democratic presidential nomination race that now seems unlikely to end any time soon. Mrs. Clinton also won Rhode Island, while Mr. Obama won in Vermont. But the results mean that Mrs. Clinton won the two states she most needed to keep her candidacy alive.

The Associated Press reported that all told, Mr. Obama retains his lead in the delegate count, with 1,477 pledged delegates compared to Mrs. Clinton’s 1,391. The A.P. said that 170 delegates from Tuesday’s contests have yet to be assigned, many from the Texas caucuses.

On the Republican side, Senator John McCain swept to victory in Ohio, Rhode Island, Texas and Vermont and claimed his party’s nomination, capping a remarkable comeback in his second bid for the presidency. Mr. McCain’s main remaining rival, Mike Huckabee, a former governor of Arkansas, announced he was dropping out minutes after the polls closed and pledged his cooperation to Mr. McCain.

Read about it- The New York Times

Photo credit

Rochester Weather: "Potential For Major Ice Storm" Plus- 1991 Ice Storm Anniversary

It's difficult to think of an ice storm now. Finally we have a gorgeous day today. The temperature is 60 degrees, sunny, spring is in the air...BUT! Tomorrow, (Tuesday), the temperature will plummet, and we may have a major ice storm. We could get more then half and inch of ice! On T.V. they said that it was not certain, so stay tuned. They also said to be prepared for power, or tree damage. Here is the weather report verbatim from WHEC news 10. You might want to click the link for the most current forecast.

"A winter storm watch is in effect from late Tuesday afternoon through Wednesday.

Low pressure lifting northeastward from the lower Mississippi valley will reach west Virginia by Tuesday evening. This will wrap warmer air over the cold air at ground level and a mixture of freezing rain and sleet will develop during Tuesday afternoon.

The mix of icy precipitation will spread over much of the watch area during late Tuesday afternoon and continue through Tuesday night before diminishing by noon Wednesday.

There cold be ice accumulations of more than a half an inch over the watch area with a significant sleet accumulation as well.

Stay tuned to News 10NBC for updates."

I will be sooo glad when Spring comes to Rochester to stay. We have had more then our share of mixed precipitation storms...ice, ice, and more ice. I'd rather have snow then ice. UG! The photo is of the famous ice storm of 1991 taken at the University of Rochester. Here are more photos of that storm. and more photos plus a first hand account. Ironically this upcoming ice storm will mark the anniversary of the ice storm we had in 1991. Thank God they are not expecting that much ice this time. What is with these major storms in March? I hope that this storm is a dud. Happy anniversary Rochester, and batten down the hatches!... Again!


"ice Strom - part 1" from YouTube (Day after the March 1991 Ice Strom in Rochester, NY)

Bargain: Wegmans Food Market 50% off Sale

I was in Wegmans at Pittsford, (New York), and found some great bargains I wanted to share with you. I'm not sure that they have these bargains in other Wegmans, but possibly.

I needed cheese, and noticed a "50% off discontinued" item, yellow sign. It was Kraft Velvetta slices, 20 slices 1 lb. for $2.04, half price! I compared it with other cheeses, and realized it was a great buy. Now I was looking for those little "50% off discontinued" signs. Next I found Weaver Chicken strips, and Chicken Bites were both on sale for $3.09, (18.5 oz bag), again 50% off. The next one was hard to believe, Banquet Chicken & Broccoli Pot Pie (7 oz) for only 25 cents! I only got a few, but wished I had picked up more. They were very tasty, and two of them with soup at dinner filled me up, (I'm a big eater). The next was on sale , but not 50%. I crunched some numbers, and it's about 40% off, Van de Kamp's Fish Sticks only $1.99.

Look for the yellow "50% off discontinued" sign. It was slightly bigger then the regular signs, and the same color so look carefully. By the way, if your interested in these particular items, they were going fast, so you might want to call first. I had limited time, so I'm sure that's not the extent of sales. If you have never been to Pittsford Wegmans it's a real treat. It's relatively new, and huge. It's three times the size of the average supermarket. You can get lost in the place. It has a salad bar, chinese food, (Wegmans Wok), and a European-style cafe, and much, much, more. The selection is out of this world. I never saw so many diffident kinds of mushrooms, (for example). Actress/singer Cher visits Wegmans when she comes here. She loves it!. Check it out next time your in the neighborhood. ~~If I Could Turn Back Time~~