I Just Came to Write

Twitter Like Wire Telegraphs?

2011-05-06T06:44:00.000-07:00

My dad had a stroke about three years ago, but he's still pretty opinionated about things and when he is interested in a topic he says it in total and complete clarity. A few months ago he brought up Twitter and said that he didn't understand the need for it. Well today, my father in his ultimate hilarity compared Twitter to wire telegraphs.

Citing that King Solomon in Ecclesiastes said that there was nothing new under the sun, he made the connection that wire telegraphs were the Twitter of their time. Yes, electrical telegraphs where morse code was transmitted over wiring to send messages (to my dad) is like Twitter. I wonder if smoke signals were the original Twitter/text message?

Either way, I guess I see what he's saying. We have phones, radios, then we get TVs and think that we're advancing. But are we really? Who knows? I'm going to post this in my Twitter feed and see what happens. As opposed to a wire telegraph, people will see it and be able to read my post instantaneously. I guess we really are advancing. Kind of.

White House Releases Obama's Birth Certificate

2011-04-27T11:43:00.000-07:00

In yo face Trump! Listen, I may be a registered democrat, but for some reason I would've voted for Donald Trump. The reason being he's a good businessman. In fact, I would say he's a great businessman, but the way he handled this whole birther business rubbed me and many people the wrong way.

There was a sense of distastefulness about the whole thing that I couldn't get past. First off, if you're trying to be a candidate for presidency, you should make yourself likable by all parties. This is not the way to get liked. Well, it doesn't matter cause the White House released the birth certificate today.

Many argue now that it was unnecessary, but I think it was a good move. The President himself was surprised by how much attention a simple thing like his birth certificate was drawing. White House Communication Director Dan Pfeiffer said "The President believed the distraction over his birth certificate wasn't good for the country. It may have been good politics and good T.V., but it was bad for the American people and distracting from the many challenges we face as a country.

He continued, "At a time of great consequence for this country--when we should be debating how we win in the future, reduce our deficit, deal with high gas prices, and bring stability to the Middle East, Washington D.C., was once again distracted by a fake issue. The President's hope is that with this step, we can move on to debating the bigger issues that matter to the American people and the future of the country."

Radiation Milk

2011-04-01T08:22:00.000-07:00

Everyone has heard of and has been following the recent devastation that has hit Japan. Radiation is a huge issue for the Japanese, but now it seems that the radiation has crossed the pond. While the amount is minimal, it is still a concern to some who worry that it will effect our food, bodies, and environment.

So yesterday, it was discovered that milk in Washington state had trace amounts of radiation. FDA senior scientist Patricia Hansen released a statement that “radiation is all around us in our daily lives, and these findings are a minuscule amount compared to what people experience every day. For example, a person would be exposed to low levels of radiation on a round trip cross country flight, watching television, and even from construction materials."

I really am not scared about radiation at all, unlike many people I know and the media that makes it seem like we're going to die because of it. I am however, tired of the FDA not really trying to protect our interests because they're probably being paid off by the companies they support.

I mean, the reality is one minute the FDA tells us that taking too many vitamins is hazardous and the next they're saying that drinking Fukushima Milk is safe. I wish that they would just once and for all say that they are either for the people or releasing whatever statement they feel necessary according to who writes the biggest check.

Fat Ho Burgers TX

2011-03-25T13:28:00.001-07:00

The new burger joint in Texas is causing a stir. The name is Fat Ho Burger, and the young 23 year old business owner thinks it's pretty funny. She says that it's all in good fun and is just to bring a sense of humor to a weighty topic.

And the community seems to be responding. If you see the video, you'll notice a lot of heavier set individuals waiting in line to get one of these burgers. Area businesses such as the Christian, volunteer run cafe aren't too thrilled. They say that the business owner should have thought about the name before she opened.

Regardless of the name of the restaurant, this burger place is just another example of the obesity in America. And goes back to a prior entry about the Heart Attack Grill. People seem to be making money on the growing waist sizes of America. But is this really something we should be proud of as Americans?

95 Year Old Vet

2011-03-24T13:24:00.000-07:00

As a follow up to the last article. A 95 Year Old WWII vet is not considered a U.S. Citizen. Do you also need to see his birth certificate, Trump?

Donald Trump Wants Obama's Birth Certificate

2011-03-24T11:01:00.000-07:00

I actually kind of like Donald Trump, but when he went on The View to say he wanted to see Obama's birth certificate, I was like "this again?" Of all the things the President has done regarding Libya, all Donald Trump can talk about is the fact that he hasn't shown his birth certificate.

I just think (much like those on The View) that a man who was born to a white mother in Hawaii has nothing to prove. Much like our ex-President Bush didn't have anything to prove. But then it clearly becomes a black and white debate. And unfortunately, people have to speak up for their blatant hypocrisies.

If you want Obama to show his birth certificate, I want every living former President to line up and show theirs as well. And then I want a copy of the ones that are dead.

Egypt's Cry for Freedom

2011-02-03T08:09:00.000-08:00

It's not news to anyone that Egypt is fighting for freedom and democracy. It's all over the news, in newspapers, and on the internet. Americans seem outraged that such a thing is happening as they believe that democracy should be granted to the Egyptian people.

While I agree, I think it's difficult for Americans to truly understand what is happening. Even after being there or speaking to Egyptians, the feelings that they have can never truly be conveyed because it's something they feel inside and are experiencing daily.

And it's dangerous for us as Americans to try and force anything on any country. It's an ongoing thing that always happens, as we are a superpower, we try to help other countries, but the "helping" turns more into "fixing". We need to remember that our own pursuit for true democracy took hundreds of years and was a delicate process.

Hopefully (and prayerfully) Egypt will soon be at peace. But it may not look like the freedom we have in the United States which is still to this day transforming and changing with every new battle whether it's abortion, gay rights, or the gun laws. Democracy has a say in all of these situations.

Let us continue to send our prayers and good thoughts to countries like Egypt and embrace what they have in the way of democracy when change finally takes hold and happens for them and their future generations.

FL Preacher Worried About NYC Real Estate

2010-09-10T07:01:00.000-07:00

A small Christian "outreach center" in Florida, whose website is still under construction is causing quite a stir. Why? Because they don't want the proposed "mosque" (which is actually an Islamic Center of prayer) to be built on Ground Zero. Real Estate. Even from Florida a small time preacher can control what gets built where. Oh and the best part is that he obviously doesn't realize that the Islamic Center isn't actually ON Ground Zero.

So the debate rolls on, should we burn Qurans to protest? Should the preacher agree to not burn Qurans if they agree to move the site. Well Pastor Jones, they are holding up their agreement, they're not building on Ground Zero, that is what you asked; isn't it? I'm not even sure if this pastor has even been to NYC let alone whether or not he knows where they're building or not building.

So called "Americans" support this pastor and agree that we should burn Qurans and fight for our "rights". What rights? The right for American citizens to buy property and do what they want with that property? Oh, yeah, Muslims need not apply. I believe people will always be divided on this topic. Although to me, the right thing to do seems crystal clear.

President Obama's Mosque Support

2010-08-15T08:03:00.000-07:00

President Obama was quoted as saying that Muslims "have the same right to practice their religion as anyone else in this country...the right to build a place of worship and a community center on private property in lower Manhattan.This is America and our commitment to religious freedom must be unshakeable. The principle that people of all faiths are welcome in this country, and will not be treated differently by their government, is essential to who we are."

This has outraged many conservative people and groups as they claim that Obama is not an American, he is a Muslim and is pushing Muslim agenda, and that this group shouldn't be allowed to build so close to the WTC site as it is an insult to what happened on 9/11. These claims seem to be fair enough, however I believe most of these people overlook that the President is actually being very fair in what he's saying.

If a large Evangelical Church decided to build a church there, no one would have opposed it and in fact it may have been welcomed. But these people are showing racism towards a certain group of people. They're saying that a Muslim Church isn't welcome because Al-Qaeda committed an act of terrorism close to that place. And really, President Obama isn't being "politically correct"; he's separating Church and State.

Because the reality is that President Obama is a Christian and if he were to say "no you can't build here" that would be putting his own beliefs into a legal matter. Furthermore, how would it look for our President who is trying to create peace with Islamic countries, to deny a Muslim group to build a Mosque close to WTC?

The reason that in THIS country we can allow this and in other countries they don't is because we're a country built on the idea that there's freedom. Freedom of speech, freedom of assembly, and freedom of religion. That's why if anyone with the money wants to buy a building and convert it into a mosque; they can and have a right to! There's nothing strange about a President who supports the right to do something. It would be strange if he said "no, you can't build there". The agreement is between the landowner and the group or person purchasing the building.

What's Anti-American is to tell someone that they can't build something somewhere because we don't want you to. There have been so many atrocities done in this country to minority groups including blacks, Japanese, and Muslims. Wouldn't it be nice to finally be able to look past someone's color or religion and truly allow them the opportunity to experience freedom? That's what President Obama is doing and I believe he would stand in support of this for all people.

This is Alabama and we speak Southern!

2010-04-28T16:22:00.000-07:00

Tim James is probably going to get a lot of votes this election year. That's because in Alabama, they speak English! The recent commercial released by the candidate talks about making it so that there aren't so many accommodations made for non-English speaking residents. Tim James is singlehandedly going to rid his state of diversity.

I know all of the Patriotic and average Americans who don't really think about this stuff will stand up and shout that as Americans we should speak English and if people don't want to learn our language, well they can just get out! But here's some points that I think people should really examine before they start getting angry.

First: People say "Well, when you go to Russia, you don't speak English there!" Actually, how many Americans GO to other countries not knowing the language and still manage to get around at restaurants, hotels, and different sightseeing destinations? Why is that? Could it be because in most countries, people DO speak more than one language? Maybe it's not so far-fetched to think that our lack of language diversity is something that's restricted to us.

Second: The last I checked, when the British didn't know how to speak the language of whichever native tribe was here, they didn't try and learn. There were hundreds of tribes massacred for their land. The only reason we speak English is because of the British. If anything we SHOULD be speaking Spanish, since the Spaniards (Juan Ponce de León people) was the first documented European to arrive here.

Third: As far as I can see, we're probably one of the most diverse countries in the world. That means that we have people from ALL OVER the world coming and living here. And guess what? That's how it has always been. If the United States is changing, it wouldn't be the first time. And we're not the only ones that "accommodate" to this change in our country.

And most importantly, in the long run, seeing more than one language isn't really hurting us. If you look around the world, most people KNOW more than one language. People were surprised by how well my parents spoke English. Well, it's because we're taught it in Pakistan since childhood. And guess what? Studies show that bilingual and trilingual children are usually smarter than those who only speak one language.

Maybe, just maybe, it would've helped Tim James to know another language.

In God We Trust

2009-10-29T10:17:00.000-07:00

This country is a place that has freedoms other countries don't. Most people don't choose to practice their faith outwardly, but if you're Muslim and a woman, you might cover your head or if you're a Jewish male you might be seen donning a skullcap. As for Christians, I believe they should submit to a different standard.

A couple of weeks ago, Trevor Keezer of Florida said that he was fired from Home Depot because of his "One Nation God" pin which he said he wore to support his brother in the war overseas. While the sentiment seems noble, when I think of his life as a Christian, it comes across a little bit below the mark.

The former cashier began to bring his Bible to work and while the news portrays this man as more of a patriot rather than a religious person, I have to question his and the Christianity of Americans today. More than any other major faith including Muslims and Jewish people, Christians are called to lead a life that few follow and a path that's difficult and filled with persecution.

Unfortunately, the line between secular and religious has been skewed in this country thanks to the rights we have. Christians are probably one of the most prominent groups that voice the wrongs which have been done to them. I won't lie, the majority of people are turned off by Christians and their faith. But instead of embracing a life of humility, some suffering, and thankfulness that we have a God who loves us--we fight for our "rights".

In Somalia, a Christian was KILLED because they refused to wear a veil, while in my native country of Pakistan a man was killed because he "desecrated" the Qur'an. To this day people are stoned to death and even crucified in the name of Christ. These people take John 15:18-21 literally when it says “If the world hates you, you know that it hated Me before it hated you. If you were of the world, the world would love its own. Yet because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you. Remember the word that I said to you...If they persecuted Me, they will also persecute you...because they do not know Him who sent Me."

The bottom line for American Christians which they forget when they fight for "rights" in this country is that they're not called to be loved or even apart of this world. The issues of this country which are law are not ones they have to follow or even live by, if anything what they do on their own and in their lives speaks louder than taking away the rights of those around them.

One Way Ticket

2009-08-02T13:33:00.000-07:00

The other day as I was leaving work to go home, I noticed a young twenty something boy donning a sign by the subway. He was thin, dirty, and his sign was one that simply read "Need money for one way bus ticket to Wilkes-Barre, PA". I wished I had the money to book him a ticket, but I myself was suffering my own financial woes.

About a week ago, I read about Mayor Bloomberg's plan to get rid of homelessness in New York City and it reminded me of that boy. He has took it upon himself to use the money (normally used for sheltering the homeless) to buy them one way tickets back to wherever it is they're originally from. With numbers like 36,000 people without shelter, more than 15,000 of which are children, it's no wonder that something needs to be done.

Homeless rights advocates say that it's a terrible idea and it will only move the problem to another jurisdiction. I believe they're just afraid they'll be out of a job at their local non-prof when this plan of Bloomberg's turns out to be a good idea. Normally I myself would be outraged, but since it costs $36,000 a year to keep shelters up (not a lot in the grand scheme of things, but still) wouldn't it be more realistic to simply pay for a $200 ticket to move the person back to a loved one?

The plan states that the person must demonstrate that they have someone on the other side waiting for them, be willing to do it and the City will even call to make sure the party arrived safely to their destination. These destinations include France, India, Florida, and Puerto Rico. With so many financial difficulties for regular people who live in the City, it kind of seems like this plan may prove more humane in the long run.

Some people move to NYC, get jobs, lose their jobs and end up on the streets with no way to get back to family or friends. It's a tough place to try and make a decent living, so in this case it seems like both the homeless person and the City would win. There would be less loitering, a cleaner City, and people passing by wouldn't feel inclined to give money to someone simply because they're homeless.

Of course there would still be some homelessness with those who choose not to leave, those who don't have anywhere they can go instead, or those who are not in the right state of mind to know what's happening. But then the space in shelters would free up so they can get the proper care and shelter they deserve.

Apparently, this program has been going on since 2007, which is why it seems like I see fewer and fewer homeless people than I did say three years ago. Hopefully thanks to this program, that kid I saw looking for a way back home, finally got his wish!

Forced Chemotherapy

2009-06-26T10:46:00.000-07:00

It seems like these days, we don't have control over our own lives. While advancements are made in giving people rights to determine whether or not the "cord" should be pulled or not when the time comes; it seems like we take steps back every day. When it comes to parents and their children; parents have very little rights.

Danny Hauser is a thirteen year old who was diagnosed with Hodgkin Lymphoma. After going through chemotherapy, the family decided together that they wanted to look into alternative, healing options. This is where the problems started for Danny Hauser and his family.

The desire for Americans and people all over the world to return to a more pure and natural state is one that comes after years and years of being fed not only poisonous foods, but also being medicated with poisons. Our world has become like a science project and every day we are the lab rats, enslaved by the ongoing.

Well when Danny Hauser's oncologist heard that the family wasn't going to continue chemotherapy, he filed for a court injunction. That's right, now thanks to a court order, Danny Hauser MUST continue chemotherapy. Otherwise, he will placed in a foster home and the parents will lose custody. That means a child with loving, caring parents will lose their son to a foster home.

The idea that the chemotherapy is helping is debatable. For all they know, his alternative therapy is what's making Danny Hauser better. While both parties are thinking about his life, still, Danny is left with the feeling that he's being filled with poison.

If the oncologist were truly so concerned, he could've made an agreement with the family that a doctor would oversee his care and if the alternative medicines failed--then they would have to return to chemotherapy. Unfortunately, as it is, another family has lost their rights to the courts.

According to Danny Hauser's website: "The Hauser Family is facing enormous medical and legal fees. The family has been asked if there is a way for individuals to help. A fund has been created at Wells Fargo Bank."

Checks made out to:

The Danny Hauser Benefit Fund

Mailed to:

Wells Fargo Bank
The Danny Hauser Benefit Fund
226 North Minnesota Street New Ulm, MN 56073

Michael Jackson Broke this Young Girl's Heart

2009-06-26T08:16:00.000-07:00

There's no doubt that everyone has felt some sense of loss over the King of Pop Michael Jackson. He was a figure that was and still is surrounded by a feeling of mystery. I think (like me), there are many who are surprised and shocked and yet really don't know who he REALLY was. It's hard to believe that this is truly the end.

There's not much more that I can say that hasn't been said before. The influence of an entertainer who reaches over generations is one that has touched everyone. And although at fifty, he has lived a long life compared to many tragic entertainment deaths; there is still a feeling that it happened too soon and that the loss was premature.

Michael Jackson's sordid past has been forgotten and perhaps in death he has found an escape from the torturous life that he lead in life. Many condolences to his family (especially his mother) and we will miss all that was and could have been. Peace.

Thriving On the Weak to Becoming One of Them

2009-06-03T08:29:00.000-07:00

There was a post on the Yahoo News channel taken from the Wall Street Journal. The writer, Mary Pilon tried to paint a somber picture of one Carlos Araya. To the untrained eye, this is just another sad tale of how one man has had to downsize when he has worked hard to make money for himself and his family. He has been wronged due to the economy, the stock market, and several other entities which have changed the dynamics of the lifestyle to which he is accustomed.

Upon closer examination however, it becomes apparent very quickly that this man was making money off of the very people he now works with and for. Yes, Carlos Araya was making $200,000 a year and now makes only $25,000, but did anyone else catch what he was making that salary doing? Crude Oil Trader. Yep, that's right folks the people that brought you crude oil barrel prices above $100 are now being shown as modern day martyrs; examples of the injustices of the recession.

I know people work hard and work honestly for their money; thus they feel that when something bad happens to them people should be sympathetic. But people like Carlos Araya (although may have worked hard), got his money from poor Americans who at the time couldn't afford a full tank of gas. When gas prices soared to above $3 a gallon; who do you think was cashing in? Probably Carlos Araya and his family.

I don't mean to sound heartless, but let's be real and honest. When prices for gas are up--they affect millions of people, but when they're down they affect only a few like Carlos Araya who lose their job and have to settle for a hosting job at a five star restaurant. There are hundreds out there who work and work and never have health benefits, those who never own more than one car, and those who don't have enough to put food on the table every night for dinner. These people are in trouble no matter what happens in the job market.

That is the reality of the economy and of the world. Every day no matter what is happening in the stock market; there are people who don't have enough to eat and yet somehow they survive. Coming from a family where my parents both worked (and had 4 children to boot) since stepping on American soil; oftentimes two jobs at a time--I think there are unfortunately more tragic stories out there than a man who was making $200,000 a year as an oil trader.

Anti-Piracy Pup

2009-06-03T08:08:00.000-07:00

I wish, oh how I wish it weren't true. But it is! The Motion Picture Association is serious about preventing piracy and in this day and age it's almost laughable that they would hire dogs to sniff out pirated DVDs in Singapore.

Now I understand that lots of people spend a ton of money to make movies. They spend time and there are countless people involved who are used to create these elaborate films--everything from "Terminator Salvation" to "Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian", but in a lot of ways the Motion Picture Association has been kind of screwing us over for quite some time. That's why although I'm empathetic, I'm in no way blinded to the fact that they're taking this a bit too far.

There's the price of the movie ticket which averages around $10 these days full price, concession stand costs where a small popcorn can run $5 and up, and then when the film is on DVD--even on sale at Walmart; it can cost up to $20. I know in the long run; that's not a huge amount of money for an investment that will survive for years to come, but when faced with spending $20 or $1 on a bootleg DVD...chances are people might opt for the cheap DVD.

These are not however, the people who want deleted scenes, commentary, and HD quality. Those people will probably STILL pay full price, they'll still pay to see the movie in the theater and they'll probably turn their noses up in the air to the Asian woman selling dollar DVDs in the laundromats. Admittedly, partially because they've probably already downloaded the HD quality directly on their iPhone (oftentimes illegally).

The bottom line is, having a dog to sniff out drugs is one thing, but is the MPA really so self-important as to think that their multi-billion dollar industry is in danger that they need to hire animals to "protect" it? Apparently so.

Betty Brown's Blooper

2009-04-13T14:15:00.000-07:00

If Betty Brown could go back and change what she said...for real that is; I would like to believe that she would. Maybe I have my own biases about people who come from Texas making racist comments. Or maybe it's just that I think enough is enough.

In 2009, it would seem that we've come a long way from where we were, say forty years ago. But apparently people don't think before they speak and we're left where we started. For a state representative to allow such words to exit her mouth...it just leaves me shocked. I know she apologized, but some how that doesn't make up for it.

This country is a nation made up of immigrants. The only true "Americans" as it were are the Native Americans or Original people who were here. Everyone knows that this country was theirs and the British came in and took that from them. The indigenous people who were here before the British took over are almost gone. That's why we speak and write in English. And that's why some people think they're entitled to say things that they shouldn't.

For the record, this country is not a "melting pot". If this were such, there would be one integrated culture. But as much as Americans like to believe that there is...there really isn't. This can be proven by the myriad of cultures who come here and retain their cultural heritage (thank God!). So to even address this false idea of "easier for Americans"; I can't help but ask what Americans?

Are we talking about Irish Americans with last names like Gallagher or Hennessey? Or Italian Americans with last names like Angeletti or Maletta. Or maybe it's East Indian Americans with names like Chopra or Singh? Because at one point, one or more of these names were not easy for "Americans" to pronounce. At one point these names were even considered too difficult.

Betty Brown saying that she needed names that were "easier for Americans to deal with" is not only insulting but causes separation. This country is not a country that is meant to exclude. That's the whole reason people come here. But she singlehandedly excluded a people who make up the largest population in the world. And managed to show her ignorance while doing it.

Her apology more than anything else is probably a way to "say sorry" without really meaning it or knowing why it was wrong. She's a public figure and as such can't afford to have people pissed off at her. Thus the apology was quickly issued and Asian Americans are supposed to just forget like it didn't happen. Well, it leaves a bad taste in my South Asian mouth.

I myself may have an "easy" first name, but sometimes I wish it was some pretty Pakistani name like Zahra or Raani. It's because although I am a citizen of this nation, I want to keep my heritage and my culture and have it follow me everywhere I go. And the next time I meet someone who came here from China...I want to know how to say their Chinese name not their "American" name.

Social Networking Woes

2009-04-10T06:07:00.000-07:00

I've been talking to a close friend recently about social networks such as Myspace, Facebook, and Twitter and we can't help but wonder whether or not all this technology works against us. I work a full-time job where I'm in front of a computer all day and to be honest the internet can get kind of boring. It's a vast resource for all the information you could possibly need at your fingertips, but sometimes is it a little too much information?

Let's say you're dating someone and then you hit a rough patch. Now, thanks to the internet and social networking sites; you can see what they're saying about you. You have the opportunity to singlehandedly cyber-stalk (whether you're doing this on purpose or not) someone you really want to be with and see everything that's happening in their life.

Now I'm not saying cyber-stalk in the way that you're hanging outside their house or being shady. I mean that sometimes when you're really into someone (not in a creepy way people); you can't help but want to know everything that's going on with that person. Sometimes that works against you. If you are unsure of the status of your relationship any post, update, or "new friend" will seem like that person is just not that into you. And more than likely you're wrong.

All of our new technology keeps us informed, but at what cost? Does it impede on our privacy? And for those of us that want information, but really shouldn't have it; does it make us crazy over nothing?

I have to wonder if staying so connected is really that good. Sometimes, I think it's just better to get away from the computer and actually go out and experience life. You never know, you just might learn something by actually talking to the person instead of looking at their updates.

Heart Attack Grill

2009-04-09T08:54:00.000-07:00

I haven't written in a while. Been busy with other things, but I'm writing now because the last few weeks I've been transitioning from vegetarian (I was still eating dairy and eggs) to vegan/raw foodist. I want to at least try this lifestyle if not forever--for a while. I'm proud to say that I've been a vegetarian since 2007. Yea!

Anyway, I like to watch shows like 'Man vs. Food' on the Travel Channel just to see all the overweight people caking their arteries. Last night before that show came on there was a Travel Channel show on pig-out restaurants and that's how I came across this fine establishment.

No, I'm not joking. There is actually a place in Arizona called the Heart Attack Grill. It's a restaurant that serves only two things: Burgers & French Fries. Guess what? They are both cooked in lard. Pure, disgusting LARD. Not to mention they do not serve diet soda (for this I'm a little thankful cause it's worst for you than the regular stuff) or light beer. And the fries are all you can eat--served much like a salad buffet.

The man who created this restaurant who calls himself "Dr. Jon" (no, he's not a real doctor) used to be a nutritionist. He says he got tired of all the books, videos, etc that told people they couldn't eat what they really liked. He said that he wanted to make a restaurant that told them that they would die from eating food like the kind the Heart Attack Grill serves, but he wanted them to enjoy themselves.

It's not surprising that he dresses up in a doctor's coat and wears a stethoscope around his neck. It's also not surprising that the "nurses" or waitresses wear trashy nurse outfits you'd only see in a porn or on Halloween. And it's also not surprising that if you eat the quadruple bypass burger (yes, it's actually called this) that they wheel you out in a wheelchair. All the food is named after surgeries. There's the single bypass, double bypass, triple bypass and the quadruple bypass burgers. And then there's the flatliner fries.

Everyone in the restaurant was overweight; the exception being college boys. One guy proudly said that he was already on cholesterol pills, so what difference did it make if he indulged? It's a pretty disgusting sight. It's not because I'm a vegan and don't like the sight of meat, I once in my life ate a Ruby Tuesdays Colossal Burger (two 1 pound patties), with fries, soda and and half of a dessert. It's disgusting because people eat this crap and think that joking about death and unhealthiness is okay.

People talk about the obesity epidemic and lots of them reason that it's just genes. There's medication out there for people and of course liposuction, but the fact of the matter is people are not healthy. They complain that they're overweight, but they have no discipline in their eating habits. Americans have food available to them any time of the day; sometimes just a phone call away. We're not overweight because it's in our genes, we're overweight because we eat too much of the wrong stuff.

When there are shows that detail 'pig-out' spots across the country or show eating contests--that's proof enough that there's a problem with our relationship to food. Food is no longer about sustenance. People use food to make themselves feel better, they use food to fight boredom, and they use food to "live a little". If you want to "live a little" go out and climb a freaking mountain.

People freak out when they find out I'm trying to be a vegan and even worst when I'm trying to be a raw foodist. It makes them uncomfortable to hear that someone is doing something healthy for themselves because then A. They think I'm trying to "preach" to them about their lifestyles or B. They think I'm doing it as a cover up to be skinny.

I (unlike the people at Heart Attack Grill) want to live a long life. I don't want to just live a long life; I want to live a long life that is free of disease and full of energy. And the added benefit of that will be that I'm fit and my body and mind will be clear and able to function at it's best.

See, "Dr. Jon" of the Heart Attack Grill said that he thought people needed to indulge in what they enjoy and not be told that they shouldn't eat what they like. He wants people to just have fun and not worry about the fact that they're eating trash.

The problem is that people may be inundated with advice on diet and exercise, but that doesn't mean they're listening. If they were there wouldn't be a new season of 'The Biggest Loser' and personal trainers and nutritionists would be exponentially richer than doctors. And now we've come to the truth..."Dr. Jon" is probably making more money as the owner of the Heart Attack Grill than he ever was as a nutritionist.

Poor Nicole Buffet?

2008-12-17T14:03:00.000-08:00

Nicole Buffet is the adopted granddaughter of the famous billionaire tycoon Warren Buffet. According to Yahoo News, the long and short of it is that the Johnson & Johnson kids were making a documentary about the poor and the rich and some who come from wealthy families and don't see any of the money. Oh boo-hoo, get over it! The only possibly sad part about the story is that he disowned her, but the only reason he did is cause she said some things which he didn't like.

Now, I understand that she is the granddaughter of a billionaire, but Warren DID pay for her schooling and for her housing and food while she was in school. That means, books, food, cultural events/experiences, tuition, etc was all covered! The thirty-something also didn't study anything like medicine or business, she went to art school. I went to school for writing and music, but I'm also in so much student debt that I could've bought a house with all the money I spent on school.

The way the article was displayed, it made it seem so tragic. I almost laughed when I read "she lives on only $40,000 a year and has no health insurance". The average liberal arts student only makes about $30,000 starting and most of them are burdened with debt. Not to mention the young woman lives in Berkley, California which explains her lack of funds. Still, as someone who lives in New York City, works three jobs, makes only about $30,000 a year and yes, still doesn't have health insurance, I can honestly say that Nicole doesn't have it that bad...not so bad that she needs to tell the media like she's overcome some unbelievable ordeal.

I would be thankful to not have to worry about all the money I owe in student loans and credit card debt which I accrued from going to school. Furthermore, Nicole gets to do what she loves to do and it's amazing that as an artist she's making that much money. Most of us either have to give up on our dreams or work on them during our free time, while working in a job we hate. Be thankful for what you've got!

President Obama

2008-11-05T07:36:00.000-08:00

I am thrilled that after all this time, we have finally elected a new President and that Barack Obama has prevailed. I believe after eight years of a Republican white President, we were in need of a change whether that was the addition of a black person or the addition of a woman as President or Vice President. I hope that people will come together no matter who they voted for and really begin to help make this country a better place.

Two things got to me in McCain's concession speech last night, at one point he said: "This is an historic election, and I recognize the special significance it has for African-Americans and for the special pride that must be theirs tonight." I don't know if anyone took that offensively, I know one of my friends watching the speech in CA was taken back by those words, but I believe most people didn't really hear what was said. I would like to say that this is NOT a historic election for African-Americans especially and their pride should be no more than a white person's pride seeing countless white males in office.

There should be a special pride and special significance for ALL Americans. We have overcome eight years of a Republican President whose lack of regard for the environment, deterioration of the economy, and endless war rampage has torn us apart as a nation. What President Obama brings is hope, rebuilding, and most importantly unity. That is why it is not something only a certain race should be in celebration of.

Senator McCain also added "A century ago, President Theodore Roosevelt's invitation of Booker T. Washington to dine at the White House was taken as an outrage in many quarters. America today is a world away from the cruel and frightful bigotry of that time. There is no better evidence of this than the election of an African-American to the presidency of the United States." After it is established that President Obama's victory is a victory of all of us, it still needs to be remembered that we are not that far from "the cruel and frightful bigotry of that time." During this election there have been countless moments where race became an issue, not entirely from the Democratic party, but from the Republican party as well.

People need to realize that while a lot of progress has occurred, there is still work to be done. President Obama has great ideas and plans for this country, but none of them will work if Americans don't begin to come together once more and unite under the same flag. There's a lot of things that need to be fixed and made right and I believe it's time for us to roll up our sleeves and get to work.

Election Day

2008-11-04T09:43:00.000-08:00

There are many reasons that I personally wish I could vote today. After eight years of a Republican president, I believe it's time for a change. That change needs to occur on many issues including health care, the economy, to the war. It's difficult for me as much of my family votes Republican simply because of our Christian values. It saddens me that we believe we are voting the way Christ would wish because one candidate is opposed to abortion and gay marriage. In particular, I find it hilarious that votes are considered pro-life (in terms of abortion), and yet they are the votes that support a war killing hundreds of people whether Americans or those we are fighting. Unfortunately, I am unable to vote because my citizenship has not come through in time.

But whether you are for McCain or Obama or are voting for an independent party, it's really important that we get out there and vote. Many people believe that they don't know about the issues or it doesn't affect them, so they don't vote, but I believe this is a sad and grave mistake. One of my friends says she feels as if she's taking a stand by NOT voting. I cannot understand how people fought for us to have that right and we waste it as if it's worthless. So today, although I am clearly biased towards one candidate over the other, I urge everyone to get out there and make a difference if you can. Use the right that you have that many don't and support this amazing country we live in.

Our Plastic Planet

2008-10-20T09:58:00.000-07:00

I went to a deli in Brooklyn where I live and watched the man wrap my eggplant parmigiana sandwich very carefully first in wax paper, then in deli paper, and finally place it in a brown paper bag which he stapled closed to prevent any spilling. I was rather appreciative, if somewhat surprised at the care he took. The deli and market is owned by an Italian family and I'm certain there are no cameras or security people walking the store. That's why I was surprised when I approached the counter, paid, and asked the girl not to give me a plastic bag and she said to me "It's because you're carrying it out."

I have heard one too many plastic bag explanations which include everything from "These bags aren't that strong, you need two" to "It's a security measure" to "You HAVE to take a bag". By now, I should not have been taken back, but somehow I always am. So when this young woman said what she said to me, I still after all of these countless interactions, did not have the words to say. I simply am always at a loss when confronted with such obvious nonsense.

I'm assuming people think when I decline a bag that I'm being rude, picky, or just plain annoying. They think I'm being a jerk and being difficult. I have worked in a retail environment for several years and I have never been offended by the preference of the customer. Because the bottom line is that just because you have a bag, does not guarantee that you have paid for your merchandise. The ACTUAL security measure is the receipt in your hand. That's really the only proof you have that you in fact did pay make a purchase.

The discomfort I have doesn't actually stem from the fact that people want to take security measures, it stems from a thing called the Great Pacific Garbage Patch. The Great Pacific Garbage Patch or "Patch" as many call it, is a huge part of the North Pacific Ocean which is filled with so much plastic waste that it is TWICE the size of the United States. Instead of feeding on plankton, animals from marine life to birds have been mistakenly eating this garbage for years and as a result are dying from it or getting caught in it.

Many people would call me an animal rights advocate at this point and not continue reading, but the effects of this pollution are certainly reaching us as well. Not even attempting to explain the way the ecosystem is being destroyed and how this directly effects us, I will give a practical example that plastic in our water is not exactly the most healthy option for our bodies as it causes a myriad of diseases. Not to mention that plastic is a derivative of fossil fuels and petroleum based which are not renewable resources. Once they are consumed and gone, they are gone for good. Gas prices are affected by the consumption of petroleum and to forgo the use of a plastic bag would not be so inconvenient if one stopped and considered these things.

I am always happy to see that small steps are finally being taken to reverse the way that we have raped our environment. Many stores offer earth friendly bags, in particular Whole Foods which even has one made out of recycled plastic bottles and offers a discount for using a reusable bag. Not to mention places which are banning plastic bags like San Francisco (I would consider moving just for this) or China which has banned free plastic bags.

I would've hoped that the small mom and pop Italian store I visited would on a practical level, want to conserve bags as they are the ones paying for them. However, I personally feel my responsibility is to in the future remember to carry a reusable bag (although at JcPenney this made no difference) and furthermore make sure that I respond in an intelligent way to unintelligent and often times hostile defenders of the ever convenient plastic bag. When I do end up with a plastic bag, I do use it for things like carrying my lunch or as a trash liner in the bathroom (as I'm sure many do), but I still hope that someday we'll all be more conscious of the effect our lives of convenience have on not only ourselves, but also on the entire world.

Joe the Plumber

2008-10-16T11:19:00.000-07:00

After a month of not writing, I've finally found a new topic I'd like to address. I have not watched any of the recent political debates, not for a lack of interest, but because I either don't have the time or forget that they're on. Likewise, I missed last night's debate, but through a link on Yahoo! News, found a story about a guy referred to as "Joe the Plumber". I watched an interview with this concerned citizen who hopes to be earning $250,000 a year and is scared that he will be charged a mere 3% more in taxes for earning that amount. He fears that Obama will raise taxes and will create a more socialist government.

Oh Joe, the things I would say to you if you were here. First of all, his argument has slight validity to it. He feels that people who have worked hard shouldn't be taxed for earning what they earn simply because they worked hard to get it and are successful. Right, let's talk about how they got the money the got. Not all (in fact probably not the majority) business people worked in ethical ways to earn the money they got. Whether it's the food industries taking liberties with ingredients, manufacturers skimping on parts for anything from cars to houses, or a massive franchise overworking their employees, most people can agree that people will do anything to make more money.

Not to mention the fact that there are many hard workers out there who just barely make it, educated people who not for a lack of trying or hard work have just not found the success they deserve. An example is someone I know who has her Masters in Education and can't find a job so instead works as a bookseller at Barnes and Noble and substitute teaches part-time to supplement her income. Someone with an education from a prominent university shouldn't have difficulty finding employment and yet she does.

Going back for a minute to the idea that many businesses have grown unethically, let's take Walmart as an example. Yes, they offer reasonable prices on their products, but they force employees who have no other employment options to work overtime and don't compensate them for their time, a large majority of their employees are on Medicaid, when they should be adequately covered through a health plan instead of using a government subsidized program and they drive down retail wages by over $3 Billion a year. And where does that money go? To the Walton family who make millions (possibly billions) of dollars a year and are not only taxed the same as someone making over $400,000 a year, but only pay a mere 2% more than the tax bracket one step down from them (that would be you Joe).

That means, that according to Joe the Plumber, if a mom and pop store which has had the success of being open for over eighty years (to Walmart's thirty years) where the owners have made a considerable income from their business is shut down because a Walmart moves into their town, it is permissible although it was arrived at using unethical and possibly illegal means. Not to mention that the Walmart owners shouldn't be charged more in taxes. Wow Joe, makes a lot of sense.

While Joe the Plumber would like to believe that he's keeping our government from becoming socialist and he says that he wants everyone to be treated equally, under McCain that isn't necessarily the case. McCain's proposed tax policy would lower the tax rates for all brackets, except the higher tax brackets would see a considerable decrease in their tax rates and the country would go deeper into deficit. Sounds like a great plan. While Joe the Plumber (who I might add is a white middle class male, but I won't get into that right now) is spouting his personal ideals and telling people to do research on their own, he clearly hasn't done much research. The $53 trillion dollar debt that the United States has accrued is clearly not a concern for Joe and furthermore he hasn't thought about where money will be generated from if it is not taken from the wealthiest citizens of our country.

Joe the Plumber also doesn't take into account the sheer fact that people who are making approximately $32,000 a year are being taxed the same as someone making $78,000 a year or as mentioned above $300,000 to those who make millions or even billions. He instead chooses to complain about a 3% tax increase now, when he currently (that we know of) doesn't even make the money he hopes to make in the future. In short, the overall argument is one that lacks sensibility, since in the present outlook people are far from charged equally or according to their means.

High Fructose Corn Syrup

2008-09-17T11:05:00.000-07:00

A couple is enjoying a picnic when the girl pulls out a Popsicle and offers it to her boyfriend. He says "I thought you loved me" she says she does, they begin to talk about how said Popsicle is made from high fructose corn syrup. The girl says "So, what's wrong with that?" Unable to answer, the boyfriend mumbles nondescriptly, while the girlfriend retorts with "That it's made from corn"...insert lies the Corn Refiners Association tells us.

Likewise, another ad features two women at a children's birthday party. One is pouring fruit punch into cups for the kids. Similar to the first, the two women discuss, the uneducated, ignorant woman can offer no arguments as to why high fructose corn syrup is bad for you and in the end takes a cup for herself.

If someone offered me a cup of fruit punch, I would say "Well you know what they say..." and when challenged by the high fructose corn syrup offender, I would tell them the following. Let's start with the fact that although it is made from corn, it is created after a strenuous process that adds enzymes which have been genetically modified. If food which has been genetically modified isn't enough of a deterrent, I would move forward to my next argument.

HFCS has also been linked with causing high cholesterol, diabetes, anemia, and heart hypertrophy when tested in animals. Not only did male rats on a HFCS diet not reach adulthood, but their livers were like those of alcoholics. Good times. It is also a large contributor to America's growing obesity epidemic. Which is no joke, it's been predicted that almost 90% of Americans will be obese by the year 2030...that's only 22 years from now.

Furthermore, corn is one of the most difficult (surprisingly) crops to grow. It requires a large amount of insecticides and fertilizer and depletes nutrients in the soil, the exception being organic. I would wager that most of the corn used to make HFCS is not organic. The continual abuse of our land and use of resources is something that will catch up to us and is something everyone should take responsibility in protecting.

Every time I see the two commercials, I cringe and die a little. They are so flowery and yet juxtapose to adverse aspects of American society. The first is that the average "informed" American who knows that things like HFCS are bad, don't really know why. Therefore they are unable to make a valid argument when presented with the "facts". The second reality is that while the commercial is partially right that in moderation or small amounts it may not be hazardous, most Americans don't do anything in moderation (as proven by the future outlook of obesity).

So the next time you go to consume HFCS in a cup of fruit punch or a Popsicle, realize that your diet is probably bad enough and doesn't need the addition of more genetically modified food. The bottom line is that HFCS is not only bad for your waistline, but also for the environment. Eat some organic fruit instead. You and the planet will both feel much better.

Dentyne Computer Themed Ads

2008-09-15T10:54:00.000-07:00

I began to see computer message themed ads from Dentyne on the trains. At first I thought they were beautifully photographed. One featured a man kissing a woman who sat inside a taxi with a cute saying underneath that read "The Original Instant Message". There are several of these which have apparently begun to annoy certain New Yorkers because they're everywhere.

These ads have annoyed me as well, but not because they're plastered everywhere. Seemingly cute, all American themed, these ads at first glance can be refreshing. Upon closer examination, however, things become painfully clear of what type of "All American" these ads are targeting, non-minority. Read: White, heterosexuals, in their mid twenties to early thirties.

Would it kill Dentyne to promote interracial dating, friendship, or life as it actually is? Not to mention, that they don't show men with other men, only two women who are friends according to the message underneath and the majority are men and women together or people over thirty (or under their mid-twenties for that matter). It seems like they are creating their perfect demographic by only showing this small group of people in their ads.

I am amazed that Dentyne has singlehandedly managed to exclude minorities, those in their forties and above, and gays and lesbians. Yes, these ads are free of any seeming controversy alright, except if the majority of New Yorkers who include many different ages, races and sexual preferences took notice, I'm sure they would not be pleased. Shame on you Dentyne!

Kulfi, Exotic the Way Apple Pie is Exotic

2008-09-05T13:07:00.000-07:00

I was in Whole Foods, picking up some essential items for my upcoming cleansing fast, when I came across a sign that said: Kulfi: Exotic Eastern Ice-Cream. I died a little inside, because a few years ago there was an article in New York Magazine about how New Yorkers were "enraptured" with it. First of all, the term exotic on Webster.com is described as "strikingly, excitingly, or mysteriously different or unusual".

I understand that things are different, but mysteriously different...I'm not sure that applies here. Kulfi is a dessert that we've been enjoying for quite some time in my country, and I'm not about to start paying $5.99 because it's suddenly the hip frozen sweet of choice. Besides all of that, I'm tired of people just instantly thinking something is exotic because they've never had it. Do you think that apple pie is exotic? I didn't think so and they're also not marketing it in Cambodia to people as the new exotic dessert of the West.

My suggestion is that if you want to try Kulfi, you head to Jackson Heights in Queens. Go to any Indian grocery store and for about a dollar pick up the real thing. It's tasty and wonderful, but I wouldn't describe it as "exotic" nor worth spending $5.99 for. Don't fall for the marketing trap, if you see something termed as "new" or "exotic" and it's a food from another country, chances are you can find it cheaper somewhere else. It's all about research people.

The Health Myth

2008-09-02T15:04:00.000-07:00

I came across an article on Yahoo.com about bottled water myths. Apparently, there were six, most of which I agreed with. They came from Marie Claire magazine, however I almost fell out of my chair at number four, one which I have seen before elsewhere, but is never easy for me to comprehend: "The Institute of Medicine recommends about 91 ounces (a little more than 11 8-ounce glasses) of fluid daily for women. But here's the thing: It expects 80 percent of that to come from water, juice, coffee, tea, or other beverages and the remaining 20 percent from food. That means if you drink a 12-ounce cup of coffee and a 12-ounce can of diet soda, you only need 48 more ounces (three 16-ounce glasses, or four soda cans' worth) for the day."

I'm always surprised that women's magazines and many "health" related articles have begun to say that drinking 8-10 glasses of water isn't important because you're getting it from coffee, soda, and juice. Did the above really tell me to get my water from five cans of soda? I won't go into the countless benefits of plain old water that include hydration, clearer skin, and even weight loss, but soda, really? Soda (especially diet) which is adding to the obesity epidemic in America is going to keep me hydrated better than water? While coffee which can irritate or worsen conditions in people such as infertility, cholesterol, and hypoglycemia is also a better option. The last I checked, water didn't do any of that.

It seems that Americans want the easy way out yet again. Everyone wants a fast fix, instead of actually taking the time to do something good for themselves, they want someone to come in and reaffirm their poor lifestyle choices. People spend years eating unhealthy foods, putting toxins into their bodies, but they want to look and feel great virtually overnight. I drink a lot of water, not only do I drink 8 glasses just during the day, I drink more every time I eat to help me digest my food properly. It probably comes out to more like 8-14 glasses by the time my day is over.

The largest problem in the unhealthy choices of Americans is that we don't take the time to do any real research. We're obsessed with health and yet we're always in a hurry, so we rely on a magazine at the impulse section (checkout) of a grocery store or our favorite brand of cereal to tell us that we're making the right choices. Has anyone else noticed the countless amounts of money brands such as Post, Coca Cola, and Lay's (just to name a few) are spending on advertising to make us believe that their products are actually healthy. It's because people don't find out for themselves what words like trans fat or soy lecithin mean. We just assume that these huge corporations have our best interests in mind and that they're telling the truth.

The truth is that publishers, food corporations, and ad agencies will say whatever is necessary to make money, but with the wealth of information available to us today simply through the internet, it doesn't have to be a difficult process to make healthy decisions. While giving up those delicious beverages and foods isn't easy, the time and effort are well worth it to have energy without any of the caffeinated side effects. Plus, the truth is, not everyone needs as much as 8 glasses of water, you can easily calculate whether it's more or less by entering your weight, height, and activity level into a "calculator" easily found from any search engine. So the next time you read something in an article (even this, go ahead, I dare you!) check out the facts and figure it out for yourself.

People with Tattoos

2008-08-25T10:21:00.000-07:00

I was on a random dating site and quite a number of men were getting all worked up about tattoos. Instead of just saying "I have some tattoos and think you should know before we get involved", they said it as if it was wrong to not be attracted to someone with a tattoo.

There are men and women who state rather adamantly and defensively "It's who I am, deal with it!", as if you were going to condemn them. Now I understand having something become apart of you. I could never imagine not having a nose ring ever since I've gotten one, but it's not who I am, it's one of the many things that is apart of who I am. Plus, I don't get into fights with people about it.

That's really what bothers me, is that people defend it as if there are masses coming at them and trying to make them feel bad about a simple thing...like a tattoo. Just some statistics:

According to Pew Research Center, in fall 2006 that 36% of those ages 18 to 25, and 40 percent of those ages 26 to 40, had at least one tattoo.

And the National Geographic said in April 2000 that 15% of Americans were tattooed (approximately 40 million people).

The reason I bring the statistics up is because obviously the stigma that once existed with tattooing isn't the norm as it was say 20 years ago. More and more people are getting tattoos and outside of conservative right religious people (and even those people aren't always opposed), I don't think they're going to burn you at the stake for having one. In fact the 2008 Olympics has caused a rise in tattoos amongst Chinese people.

All this makes me wish is for people to not get so worked up about it, I've actually had people argue with me as to why I've changed my mind about getting one! If I have to respect your decision to get tattoos (which I am, cause I think they're cool), why can't you respect mine to refrain? It's a strange, biased, and judgmental world we live in folks. Let's try to make it a better place and just be nice to one another!