Ted’s Remarks About Stuff
October thru December, 2021


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Dec. 31, 2021
Stock Market

We should be loyal to others, but our primary loyalty needs to be to God.  We can do this by thanking Him regularly for our numerous blessings, doing things we know He would want us to do, refraining from doing things we know He dislikes, and revering Him more highly than anyone and anything else in our lives.

Also, loyalty is more than words; true loyalty will result in actions.  Being loyal is committing our thoughts and actions to God first.  He values loyalty in His followers and is strong in showing His appreciation for it.

2022 may be a year with many trials and troubles.  It will be an essential time to make God our primary focus and strive to be constantly loyal to Him.


Dec. 30, 2021
Stock Market

Social security scam alert

If you receive a call, text, or email that does one of the following, it is a SCAM:

Cellphone  • threatens to suspend your Social Security number, even if they have part or all of your Social Security number;
• warns you of arrest or legal action;
• demands or requests immediate payment;
• requires payment by gift card, prepaid debit card, internet currency, or mailing cash;
• pressures you to provide personal information;
• requests secrecy;
• threatens to seize your bank account;
• promises to increase your Social Security benefit; or
• tries to gain your trust by providing fake "documentation," false "evidence," or the name of a real government official.

Ignore them

Protect yourself and others from Social Security-related scams:

  • Try to stay calm.  Do not provide anyone with money or personal information when you feel pressured, threatened, or scared.
  • Hang up or ignore it.  If you receive a suspicious call, text, or email, hang up or do not respond.  Government employees will not threaten you, demand immediate payment, or try to gain your trust by sending you pictures or documents.
  • Share this informationi with others.

To report a scam to the U.S. Inspector General, click on the button below:

Report a scam
Dec. 29, 2021
Stock Market

Earlier this week, President Biden held a virtual meeting with the National Governors Association.  How to respond to the pandemic was the main topic.  During the call, Biden told the governors that they would have to solve the pandemic at the state level.  He said, “Look, there is no federal solution.  This gets solved at the state level.

However, in a tweet yesterday, Biden said, “My Administration has the back of every governor fighting COVID-19 in their state. Last week, I rolled out a federal plan to tackle Omicron by adding vaccination and booster capacity, hospital equipment, staff, and more. We’re going to get through this by working together.

Many have pointed out these mixed messages made by Biden on two consecutive days.  Biden still continues to push his vaccine mandates and other federal measures to ease the COVID problem.

Biden, after claiming no 'federal
solution' to COVID-19 pandemic,
boasts about 'federal plan'
    Biden: 'There Is No
Federal Solution'
to Covid-19

Dec. 28, 2021
Stock Market

During the past week, before and after the Christmas holiday, there were many thousands of delayed and cancelled air flights globally.  Since Christmas Eve, about 12,000 flights have been cancelled.  Countless numbers of passengers and potential passengers have been extremely inconvenienced.

Reasons for delays and cancellations include moderate to severe winter weather, as well as staffing shortages at various airlines.  The spreading of COVID-19 variants, especially Omicron, also is a major cause.  Unfortunately, the flight delays and cancellations are expected to continue into the new year.

The numbers continue to increase.  As of 3:00 p.m. PST = 6:00 p.m. EST this afternoon, these were the numbers of delays and cancellations:

  • Delays so far today: 11,298
  • Delays within, into, or out of the United States so far today: 5,319
  • cancellations so far today: 2,956
  • cancellations within, into, or out of the United States so far today: 1,160

Hundreds more flights
canceled over COVID-
driven staffing issues
    Airlines cancel 2,700
more flights worldwide as
travel ordeal continues
FlightAware.com live flight
delay and cancellation
statistics for today

Dec. 27, 2021
Stock Market

This past weekend at Olive Tree Ministries, Jan Markell’s program was a repeat of her Aug. 14 program.  Jan spent the hour with Dr. Ed Hindson at The King is Coming.

In Dr. Hindson’s words, “God has planned an incredible and eternal experience for every believer.  We were created for eternity and redeemed for eternity.  But life has a way of focusing our attention on our immediate cares and not on our ultimate goal.  We are easily caught up in our daily tasks that take most of our time and attention away from the ultimate purpose for which we are created.  The Bible reminds us that while God has made everything beautiful in its time, He also has put eternity in our hearts (Ecclesiastes 3:11).  No matter how hard we try, we are never satisfied with anything less than that which is eternal.  Eternity is a long time; it lasts forever and ever.  Sometimes people ask, ‘What will we be doing all that time?’  They assume that once we die and go to heaven, that’s all there is to our eternal life.  But the Bible promises so much more.


Dec. 26, 2021

Early this morning, I went to Walmart to buy some 50%-off Christmas candy.  The majority of the Christmas candy already had been removed, leaving mostly empty shelves.  There were some shelves with Christmas gifts, cards, snacks, and desserts to bake, all of which were 50%-off.

I asked four different employees if the Christmas candy had been moved to another location in the store.  They all said that the majority of it had been removed permanently from the shelves last night and no longer was in the store.  I told one employee, “Maybe Santa Claus came and took all the candy.”  He laughed and said, “I bet that’s what happened because he was running short of candy to be delivered in Orange County.” 

One employee did show me two different kinds of dark chocolate that were half-price, and those were good enough for me.  So I bought 61.40 oz. (3.84 lb.) of 50%-off Christmas clearance candy.  That definitely will last me awhile.

         
15-second slideshow

Dec. 25, 2021

       
15-second slideshow

Merry Christmas to those who celebrate this holiday.  I celebrate the birth of Jesus during the week of the Feast of Tabernacles or Sukkot.  You can see my Sep. 21 entry for more about that.  Also, see Emperor Constantine, as well as my email response to someone here:

Do you think that Jesus was born on December 25 of the Gregorian calendar, or could He have been born at a time that aligned with the Hebraic calendar of feasts and festivals?

Regardless of when the virgin birth of Jesus was, He is the promised Messiah, the Son of God, and the Savior of those who acknowledge that we are sinners and ask God’s forgiveness for our transgressions.  We understand that Jesus came and took the penalty that we were due.  In case you have an interest, you can see My Beliefs and Faith for more of what I believe.


There were record-breaking temperatures for Christmas day in parts of the southeastern U.S. today.  Temperatures in many places were 10° to 20° above normal for December 25.

U.S. weather Christmas 2021
Dec. 24, 2021

WRAIR's SpFN vaccine for COVID-19At the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research (WRAIR), a vaccine has been developed that may provide protection against most or all COVID-19 variants.  The Phase 1 Clinical Trial, which began in April of this year, has been completed.  So far, the initial results show promise.

The Spike Ferritin Nanoparticle (SpFN) vaccine contains a ball-shaped protein with 24 faces.  Various protein spikes from coronavirus variants have been attached to the numerous faces of the protein.  This triggers the body to mount a broad protective immune response against several COVID variants.

Analysis of the results of the study are continuing.  Phase 2 and 3 trials still need to take place before the vaccine can be released for public use.

US Army developing
vaccine to fight ‘array’
of COVID variants
    The US Army is testing a
universal vaccine it hopes will
target all coronavirus variants

Dec. 23, 2021
Stock Market

Merck's Molnupiravir for COVID-19Following yesterday’s endorsement of Pfizer’s antiviral pill, Paxlovid, today the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) authorized the use of Merck’s antiviral pill, Molnupiravir.  It has been shown to reduce the risk of hospitilization or death in high-risk patients by 30%.

This drug works by introducing mutations into the SARS-CoV-2 virus’ genetic code to prevent it from replicating.  It is not approved for use in people younger than age 18, since it may interfere with bone and cartilage growth.  It also is not recommended for use during pregnancy because animal studies have suggested that it could cause birth defects in the fetus.

Molnupiravir is available by prescription only.  The FDA says that treatment should begin as soon as possible after a COVID-19 diagnosis and within 5 days of the onset of symptoms in order to treat mild-to-moderate disease.

FDA authorizes
Merck’s COVID-19
antiviral pill
    US Adds Merck Pill
as 2nd Easy-To-Use
Drug Against COVID-19

Dec. 22, 2021
Stock Market

Pfizer's Paxlovid for COVID-19Last month, Pfizer announced that its antiviral pill, Paxlovid, resulted in an 89% reduction in hospitalizations of high risk COVID-19 patients studied.  This occurred when the medication was given within 3 to 5 days after symptom onset.

Paxlovid is a combination of Nirmatrelvir and Ritonavir.  Each of these is classified as a protease inhibitor.

Today, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) endorsed the Pfizer antiviral pill as a treatment for COVID-19.  It has been authorized to treat people over age 12 who are at high risk for severe disease.  It is the first pill endorsed by the FDA to treat COVID-19.

FDA clears Pfizer
pill as first home
COVID treatment in US
    FDA Authorizes First
COVID-19 Antiviral
Pill From Pfizer

Dec. 21, 2021
Stock Market

Today, the December Solstice took place.  That occurred at 7:59 a.m. PST = 10:59 a.m. EST = 3:59 p.m. UTC.

It marked the beginning of winter in the Northern Hemisphere and the beginning of summer in the Southern Hemisphere.

For us in the Northern Hemisphere, it marks the end of decreasing daylight hours.  So for the next 6 months, the daylight will be getting longer each day, which I like.  Yeah!! 

December Solstice
Dec. 20, 2021
Stock Market

King David was the most famous and revered king in Israel’s history.  He was the youngest of eight brothers, and he always had a very strong relationship with God.  Jesus was a descendant of David (Matthew 1:1; Mark 12:35; Romans 1:3; Revelation 22:16).

When he was young, he encountered a giant Philistine named Goliath who was over nine feet tall.  The Philistines were enemies of the Israelites, and the Israelites were terrified of Goliath’s threats against them.  The entire account can be read in 1 Samuel 17:1-58.

No had been brave enough to come against Goliath.  However, David was convinced that, if he came against Goliath, God would deliver him from the hand of the Philistine (1 Samuel 17:37).  Indeed, that is what happened.

As Goliath approached David, he said, “Come here and I’ll give your flesh to the birds of the air and the beasts of the field!”  However,

David said to the Philistine, “You come against me with sword and spear and javelin, but I come against you in the name of the LORD Almighty, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied.  This day the LORD will hand you over to me, and I’ll strike you down and cut off your head.  Today I will give the carcasses of the Philistine army to the birds of the air and the beasts of the earth, and the whole world will know that there is a God in Israel.  All those gathered here will know that it is not by sword or spear that the LORD saves; for the battle is the LORD’s, and he will give all of you into our hands.” (1 Samuel 17:45-47)

Then David took one of the five smooth stones that he had in his bag and slung it at Goliath.  It sank into Goliath’s forehead, and he fell facedown on the ground.  David ran over to him and, using Goliath’s own sword, cut off his head.  When the Philistines saw this, they turned and ran.

I like the teachings of Valerie Moody.  A recent one was about David and Goliath.  To sum up their encounter, she likens Goliath to a “mountain” and says that “David does not speak to the Almighty about the mountain.  He speaks to the mountain about the Almighty.

A Rock and a Mountain
Dec. 19, 2021

At Olive Tree Ministries this weekend, Jan Markell replayed the “Question and Answer Session: Behold He Comes Conference” on Sep. 11.  It took place at Calvary Chapel Chino Hills.

Jan spent the hour having a discussion with Pastor Jack Hibbs, Amir Tsarfati and Pastor Barry Stagner.  They discussed current issues, Bible prophecy and troubling church issues.

Today’s program, lasting 62 minutes, can be heard here:

Queston & Answer Session: Behold He Comes Conference — Audio | Video
Dec. 18, 2021

The background image at bing.com today is the December full moon seen through holiday lights.  It is called the Cold Moon, the Long Night Moon and the Moon before Yule.

December Cold Moon

Each month of the year has at least one full moon, and the occasion of that full moon often has nicknames related to the season.  In the Northern Hemisphere, December usually is considered the start of winter, so December’s first full moon gets the chilly nickname “cold moon.”  It’s sometimes called the “long night moon,” since the winter solstice, on December 21, is near.


Dec. 17, 2021
Stock Market

Alaska's Emma Broyles, Miss America 2021The annual Miss America Pageant took place last night at the Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Connecticut.  It was the 100th anniversary of the competition.

Since the pageant began a century ago, it has evolved away from the emphasis on looks alone, and contestants no longer are judged on physical appearance.  Now there is a focus on leadership, talent and communication skills.

There were 50 contestants, which represented 49 states and the District of Columbia.  Mariah Larocque, representing Maine, had to withdraw from the competition, having been diagnosed with COVID-19.  However, she was awarded Miss Conageniality.

Emma Broyles, Miss Alaska, claimed the centennial crown and a $100,000 college scholarship.  It was the first time that Miss Alaska has won the Miss America Pageant.  Lauren Bradford, Miss Alabama, was the pageant’s first runner-up.

Miss America crowns Miss Alaska
Emma Broyles the 100th winner:
'I am real. I have flaws.'
    Miss Alaska wins 2022
Miss America; Miss Alabama
is first runner-up

Dec. 16, 2021
Stock Market

For months, tbe U.S. Congress has been trying to put together and pass the multitrillion-dollar Build Back Better Plan.  It has been strongly promoted by President Biden and other Democrats.

The House of Representatives passed their version of the bill back on Nov. 19.  However, for various reasons, the Senate has not yet been able to hold a vote.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer has been indicating that a vote on the legislation should be taken before the end of the year.  Biden has been hoping that it might pass before Christmas.

However, Senator Manchin (D-WV) has not been a supporter of the social spending measure.  The bill will need at least 50 Democratic senators to vote for it.  Now it is appearing increasingly likely that the vote will be put off until sometime in 2022.

Biden acknowledges Build
Back Better bill likely
won't be passed this year
    Dems Hint at Delaying Build
Back Better Until Next
Year, Pivot to Voting Bill

Dec. 15, 2021
Stock Market

A week after the U.S. House passed the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) 363 to 70, the U.S. Senate passed it today 88 to 11.  The original Senate vote was 89 to 10, but Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) later changed his vote from yes to no.

In the $768 billion measure, $740.3 billion will go toward Department of Defense programs.  Another $27.7 billion is allocated for Department of Energy national security programs.  The remaining $378 million will be for additional defense-related matters.

The legislation will give U.S. troops a 2.7% pay raise.  There also is $25 billion more than the White House had requested for defense spending.  The bill has been sent to President Biden’s desk for his signature.

Senate passes National Defense
Authorization Act for 2022
secures W.Va. priorities
    Senate sends defense bill
to Biden’s desk with
extra $25B in spending

Dec. 14, 2021
Stock Market

Geminid Meteor ShowerThe peak of the annual Geminid meteor shower was late last night and into early this morning.  Each year, debris from the 3200 Phaethon rock comet crashes into Earth’s upper atmosphere at about 80,000 miles (130,000 kilometers) per hour.

This year, the nearly-full moon was up most of the night.  It will be full on Dec. 18.  However, the Geminid meteors are very bright, and many of them overcome the light of the moon.

I went outside at about 2:00 a.m.  In the southeast sky, I saw two very bright meteors within about 5 minutes.  They appeared to be traveling from east to south.

More meteors should be visible tonight and into tomorrow morning.  Probably the best time to see them will be from about 3:00 a.m. to dawn.

Stunning photos show
Geminids Meteor Shower
as it peaked last night
    Geminid meteor
shower 2021 peaks
December 13-14

Dec. 13, 2021
Stock Market

India's Harnaaz Sandhu, Miss Universe 2021The 70th annual Miss Universe Pageant took place last night in Eilat, Israel.  The international competition was hosted by Steve Harvey.  It was the first time that the pageant has taken place in Israel.

Contestants from 80 countries participated.  These were the three finalists:

  • Miss South Africa: Lalela Mswane
  • Miss Paraguay: Nadia Ferreira
  • Miss India: Harnaaz Sandhu

The final winner was Harnaaz Sandhu, Miss India.  Andrea Meza of Mexico, the reigning Miss Universe, crowned her successor, Harnaaz Sandhu.  The 1st runner-up was Nadia Ferreira, Miss Paraguay.

Miss India Harnaaz Sandhu crowned Miss Universe
2021, Miss USA Elle Smith denied top 5 spot

For pageants in the past, since 1952, see List of Miss Universe runners-up and finalists.


Dec. 12, 2021

At Olive Tree Ministries this weekend, Jan Markell spent the first half of the program expressing many of her views.  This included her belief in a Pre-tribulation Rapture.  She believes that this will take place prior to the final 7 years of this age, commonly known as the Tribulation period.

Jan began by playing an interview of Mark Hitchcock, who talked about some of his prophetic views.  She also played news reports about concerning things going on in the world and in America, including the COVID pandemic, that appear to be foreshadowing end-time events.

During the last half of the program, Jan spoke with Pete Garcia at Rapture Forums.  His website is https://www.rev310.net.  They reviewed top stories that have biblical implications in 2021.  The “game changer” was the COVID-19 pandemic, which has ushered in dozens of scenarios with prophetic implications, one of which is a global government.  They also looked at potential stories of significance in 2022.

It is possible that a war is pending in the Middle East between Israel and Iran.  Amir Tsarfati, who lives in Israel, says that Israeli airforce exercises are the most intense he’s ever seen and that the planes are fully equipped.  The Israeli defense minister has said, on live TV, that Israel is preparing itself for a war with Iran.  A report indicates that Iran may have enough enriched uranium to make a nuclear bomb.

Markell and Garcia discussed the possibility that Israel possibly could attack Iran by the Spring of 2022 (next year).  It may be that the Gog and Magog invasion, prophesied in Ezekiel 38 and 39, is near.

         

         

30-second slideshow

Today’s program, lasting 55 minutes, can be heard here:

The Game Changer — Audio | Video

Those who believe in a Pre-tribulation Rapture feel that the whole 7-year Tribulation period will consist of the wrath of God.  I am convinced that, during that period, only a portion of it—the Day of the Lord or God’s day of vengeance—will comprise God’s wrath and will be preceded by the Pre-Wrath Rapture.

I definitely do believe in a main Rapture event, but I see it as a Pre-wrath Rapture rather than as a Pre-tribulation Rapture, with which I disagree:

  • Is the Pre-tribulation view of the Rapture the correct view?
  • My views about the Rapture can be found in my two-part commentary here: The Rapture.  Some of my email responses to people’s Rapture questions can be found here: Rapture Questions & Responses.


    Dec. 11, 2021

    Midwest tornadoesSeveral states in the middle U.S. experienced numerous tornadoes last night and early today.  The tornadoes were in Southern and Midwest states, causing many deaths, extended destruction and widespread power outages.

    An unstable cold front coming from the western U.S. encountered warm southern moisture, resulting in an extreme torrent of stormy weather moving northward and eastward.  So far, at least 22 tornadoes have hit parts of Arkansas, Mississippi, Missouri, Tennessee, Kentucky and Illinois.  The storm is heading toward the Great Lakes.

    In Mayfield, Kentucky, at least 110 people were inside of a candle factory, which was destroyed by a strong tornado.  There were at least 70 fatalities, but the number is expected to rise.  About two dozen people are estimated to have died in nearby states.

    In Edwardsville, Illinois, a large Amazon distribution center collapsed.  At least 6 people were killed, but that number may increase.

    A state of emergency was declared in Kentucky by Governor Beshear.  He said, “This has been the most devastating tornado event in our state’s history.” He also said, “This will be, I believe, the deadliest tornado system to ever run through Kentucky.

    Beshear requested federal recovery funds from President Biden.  Biden signed an emergency declaration, which applies to 15 counties in Kentucky.  He is ready to do the same for other states.  He said that this likely was “one of the largest tornado events in our history.

    Fatalities, destruction of
    property and power outages in
    states slammed by tornadoes
        More than 70 dead in Kentucky after
    tornadoes hit central U.S.; 6 dead
    at Amazon warehouse in Illinois

    Dec. 10, 2021
    Stock Market

    Last night the U.S. Senate passed a bill, adding one more step toward Congress’ being able to raise the U.S. debt ceiling.  The bill passed with a vote of 59 to 35, with 10 Republicans voting for the bill.

    The Senate vote came two nights after the U.S. House passed the measure 222 to 212.  President Biden is expected to sign the bill soon.  It will create a one-time suspension of the Senate filibuster, enabling the Senate to raise the debt ceiling with a simple majority vote.

    If everything continues as expected, the 50 Senate Democrats, along with Vice President Harris, will vote 51 to 50 to lift the debt ceiling before the Dec. 15 deadline.  If so, this will prevent the first-ever debt default in U.S. history.

    It is not known by exactly how much the Democrats are planning to hike the debt ceiling.  Estimates are between $2 trillion and $3 trillion.  This would put the gigantic national debt over $30 trillion.

    Senate passes bill
    to avoid filisuter
    on debt ceiling hike
        Senate passes bipartisan
    bill to fast-track debt
    ceiling hike, avoid default

    Dec. 9, 2021
    Stock Market

    Covid virusesThe COVID-19 virus has been in the world for about two years.  Several variants, including the new Omicron variant, have appeared and spread into many nations.

    Even with an increasing number of COVID vaccinations being given, there is no indication that this pandemic is under control.  Most people are wondering what is on the horizon for this worldwide problem.

    Possibly, the COVID pandemic will begin fading next year and become simply a recurrent viral disease, similar to the common flu.  Or else the pandemic could continue to rage, potentially opening the way to a far worse situation.

    Sarah Gilbert was part of the team that developed the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine.  She recently said, “This will not be the last time a virus threatens our lives and our livelihoods.  The truth is, the next one could be worse.  It could be more contagious, or more lethal, or both.”  She believes that more funding and research are vital to prevent future pandemics.

    Next pandemic could be
    more lethal, vaccine
    researcher warns
        Next pandemic may be
    more lethal, scientist behind
    AstraZeneca vaccine warns

    Dec. 8, 2021
    Stock Market

    Late last night, the U.S. House of Representatives passed a debt-ceiling overhaul.  The vote was 222 for and 212 against.  This approves a reform for raising the U.S. debt ceiling.

    Next, the reform itself must pass in the Senate by at least 60 votes.  It is uncertain that enough Republicans will vote to pass the reform measure.

    If the Senate does approve the reform and President Biden signs it into law, then the Senate will be able to raise the debt ceiling with a simple majority of 51 votes.  Most likely, this would include 50 Democrat votes and 1 vote by Vice President Harris.

    Janet Yellen has indicated that if the debt ceiling is not lifted by Dec. 15, there may be scenarios where the United States might not be able to pay all of its bills.  That would increase the risk of going into default for the first time in U.S. history, which could “eviscerate” the nation’s economic recovery.

    House sets stage
    to increase
    debt ceiling
        House passes debt-ceiling overhaul
    that allows Senate Democrats to avoid
    catastrophic default without the GOP

    Dec. 7, 2021
    Stock Market

    Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day

    Today is the 80th anniversary of the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, Hawaii.  President Roosevelt referred to it as “a date which will live in infamy,” as indeed it has.  (If the link does not connect, click here: https://youtube.com/watch?v=lK8gYGg0dk.)

    This attack caused the United States to enter World War II.  Had that not happened, Adolf Hitler probably would have won the war, and the world would have been a completely different place.


    Dec. 6, 2021
    Stock Market

    Smash and grab in U.S. Smash and grab in U.S.
    Crime has been raging for awhile across the U.S., especially in Los Angeles, San Francisco, New York, Chicago, Minneapolis, Portland and many other large cities.  It includes violent assaults, brazen shoplifting and mob “smash and grab” attacks.

    Gangs have looted and ransacked large and small stores alike.  Most of the items being taken are not essentials and necessities.  Extreme amounts of shoplifting, damage to stores, and attacks on employees have caused many businesses to close, due to the high amount of losses and threats to employees.

    The fundamental cause of this is not the COVID pandemic.  Many places have decreased the funding of police and other law enforcement departments, resulting in an increasing number of law enforcement officers leaving their jobs.  California has made the theft, per person, of merchandise worth $950 or less to be merely a misdemeanor.

    Basically, both the certainty and the severity of punishment for criminal behavior have fallen.  Naturally, this causes thieves to see that the risk and penalty of stealing have decreased considerably, which encourages them to do more smashing and grabbing.

    Epidemic of smash-
    and-grab crime is
    definitely man-made
        How looting turned the
    most upscale part of San
    Francisco into a ghost town

    In many places, it seems that the “crime” of not wearing a COVID mask is more serious than the threat of looting, smashing and grabbing, and attacks against store employees. 


    Dec. 5, 2021

    God, show and teach me

    It is important to do good and to seek the guidance of our Creator, Lord and God on a daily basis.  In His written Word, the Bible, a few examples of His instructions on how we should live our lives and to please God are as follows:

    • Praise God with your mouth so as to receive teachings of His laws and judgments in return (Psalm 119:108).
    • Love others (Romans 13:8-10; 1 Corinthians 13:4-7).
    • Be humble (2 Chronicles 7:14).
    • Keep God’s requirements, decrees, laws and commandments (Exodus 20:3-17; Deuteronomy 11:1).
    • Live peaceably with others, and do to others as you would have them do to you (Luke 6:31; Romans 12:18).

    Dec. 4, 2021

    At Olive Tree Ministries today, Jan Markell spent the hour with Pastor Mark Henry.  They discussed the Rapture or the “blessed hope,” which many are saying will be the “blasted hope.”

    A survey says that 9 in 10 pastors see prophecy in current events; yet few will teach it.  We can’t have the comfort that God wants us to have until we embrace the Rapture, taught clearly in the Bible.

    Jan and Mark believe in a Pre-tribulation Rapture event.  They pointed out how there are those who do believe in a Rapture event but not in a Pre-tribulation Rapture event.  Those in that category ask the following question:

    • What if the end of the world isn’t as so many have portrayed it?
    • What if the Church is not raptured to heaven before the great tribulation, as many are teaching?
    • What if Tim LaHaye’s claim that if  the Pre-tribulation Rapture is false, then the “blessed hope” will become the “blasted hope” actually comes true for millions of pre-tribulationists?
    • What if the Church has been left ill-prepared to face the Antichrist and the mark of the beast?
    • What if millions who have been led astray by the pre-trib rapture teaching become part of the great “falling away” that Jesus warned would take place at that time?

             

             

    30-second slideshow

    Today’s program, lasting 54 minutes, can be heard here:

    Capture the Rapture: The Ultimate Good News — Audio | Video

    Personally, I do feel that Jan Markell and Mark Henry made many valid points today.  For example, they are correct in their belief that Amillennialism and Postmillennialism are incorrect views.  In fact, the Premillennial view is absolutely correct.  During a future 1,000-year period, the Millennium, Jesus will rule and reign over the world in perfect righteousness, justice, lawfullness, peace and love.

    However, I do not agree with Jan and Mark’s perspective about a Pre-tribulation Rapture taking place just prior to the final 7 years of this age.  I do, however, leave open the possibility for a “firstfruits” Mid-tribulation Rapture, taking place on a Feast of Firstfruits.

    Those who believe in a Pre-tribulation Rapture feel that the whole 7-year Tribulation period will consist of the wrath of God.  I am convinced that, during that period, only a portion of it—the Day of the Lord or God’s day of vengeance—will comprise God’s wrath and will be preceded by the Pre-Wrath Rapture.

    I definitely do believe in a main Rapture event, but I see it as a Pre-wrath Rapture rather than as a Pre-tribulation Rapture, with which I disagree:

  • Is the Pre-tribulation view of the Rapture the correct view?
  • My views about the Rapture can be found in my two-part commentary here: The Rapture.  Some of my email responses to people’s Rapture questions can be found here: Rapture Questions & Responses.


    Dec. 3, 2021
    Stock Market

    Yesterday, the U.S. House approved a stopgap government funding bill.  The vote was 221 to 212.

    Hours later, the U.S. Senate also approved the bill.  The vote was 69 to 28.

    Government funding has been extended until Feb. 18, 2022.  President Biden will sign the bill before midnight tonight to prevent a government shutdown.

    House and Senate approve
    stopgap funding bill to
    avert government shutdown
        Senate passes
    stopgap funding bill,
    avoiding shutdown

    Dec. 2, 2021
    Stock Market

    Demonstrator at Supreme Court buildingHundreds of pro-life and pro-abortion advocates demonstrated outside of the U.S. Supreme Court building yesterday.  Supreme Court justices were meeting to consider arguments about a Mississippi law, passed in 2018, that bans abortions after 15 weeks of pregnancy.

    The law in question directly contradicts what has been the central holding of the Roe vs. Wade decision in 1973.  It established the constitutional right to abortion and said that states cannot ban the procedure before fetal visibility, which occurs around 24 weeks into the pregnancy.

    After nearly two hours of often heated oral arguments, the Supreme Court’s six conservative justices appeared willing to negate the nearly 50-year-old precedent.  However, they seemed divided on whether the court should weaken the viability standard or overturn Roe entirely.

    The three liberal justices vigorously defended Roe and questioned Mississippi’s arguments for doing away with the precedent.  A final decision by the court is not expected until the end of June next year.  That will be only a few months before the 2022 midterm elections.

    Conservative Supreme Court justices
    consider upholding Mississippi abortion law

    Dec. 1, 2021
    Stock Market

    The Omicron variant of the COVID-19 virus was detected in South Africa less than a week ago.  On Nov. 26, the World Health Organization (WHO) classified Omicron as a “variant of concern” due to a high number of mutations.  This could enable the virus to be resistant to vaccines, which would help it to spread more easily.

    Besides several south African countries, the Omicron variant has been detected in Australia, Austria, Belgium, Britain, Canada, the Czech Republic, Denmark, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Israel, Italy, Japan, the Netherlands and Portugal.  Now it has been discovered in the United States.

    The infected individual is a resident of San Francisco, CA.  This fully vaccinated person returned from South Africa on Nov. 22 and tested positive for the virus on Nov. 29.  Only mild symptoms are present, and self-quarantining is in effect.  There is little doubt that Omicron is present in other places in California and in other states.

    First confirmed U.S. case of Omicron
    variant detected in California

    Nov. 30, 2021
    Stock Market

    The SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant is the newest COVID-19 strain.  It first was identified last week by a team of researchers in South Africa.  Alex Sigal, the leader of that research team, has said, “This is probably the most mutated virus we’d ever seen.”

    The Omicron variant has over 50 mutations, with over 30 mutations in the spike protein.  This enhances the virus’ ability to infect the body.  Thus, there is considerable concern that it may be very contagious and could spread rapidly.

    The new variant has spread to several countries in southern Africa, as well as to other countries in the world.  Many nations, including the U.S., are barring travel from the southern Africa countries in an attempt to prevent its spread.

    Following the emergence of the Omicron variant, the World Health Organization (WHO) has recommended an international accord to help prevent and fight future pandemics.  WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, along with some national leaders such as German Chancellor Angela Merkel and Chilean President Sebastian Pinera, are seeking an international accord to help prevent and fight future pandemics.

    WHO warns Omicron variant
    poses ‘very high’ risk
    of infection worldwide
        WHO chief: Omicron
    shows need for global
    accord on pandemics

    Nov. 29, 2021
    Stock Market

    Lighting of Hanukkah candlesThis the first full day of Hanukkah, which began last night, Nov. 28, after sunset.  There are Hanukkah Blessings to say for eight nights as menorah candles are lit.  Happy Hanukkah Blessings!

           
    15-second slideshow

    Jesus is the Light of the WorldThe first day of Hanukkah, the Festival of Lights, is the 25th day of the Hebraic month of Kislev.  Most likely, this is when Jesus, the “light of the world” (John 3:19, 8:12), was conceived within a virgin and, when born, would be called Immanuel or “God with us” (Isaiah 7:14; Luke 1:30-35).  He was conceived by the Holy Spirit of God (Matthew 1:18-20).  This is a fundamental example of how someone becomes a person, not merely a clump of cells, at the moment of conception.

    Since life begins at conception, then it seems plausible that Jesus was the Light who entered the world (John 3:19) on the Festival of Lights.  Nine months later, Jesus most likely was born at the beginning of the Feast of Tabernacles = Sukkot.  This is when God came to make His dwelling or to tabernacle with us in human form (John 1:14).  More information and details can be found here: Do you think that Jesus was born on December 25 of the Gregorian calendar, or could He have been born at a time that aligned with the Hebraic calendar of feasts and festivals?

    Speaking of the Messiah and Savior Jesus to come, God said this:

    “It is too small a thing for you to be my servant to restore the tribes of Jacob and bring back those of Israel I have kept.  I will also make you a light for the Gentiles, that you may bring my salvation to the ends of the earth.”  This is what the LORD says—the Redeemer and Holy One of Israel—to him who was despised and abhorred by the nation, to the servant of rulers: “Kings will see you and rise up, princes will see and bow down, because of the LORD, who is faithful, the Holy One of Israel, who has chosen you.” (Isaiah 49:6,7)

    Jesus, who was Jewish, observed Hanukkah = the Feast of Dedication (John 10:22,23).  It commemorates the rededication of the Temple in Jerusalem in 164 BCE.  I feel that Jesus’ millennial Temple probably will be dedicated during Hanukkah after He returns to rule and reign over the whole world.


    Nov. 28, 2021

    At Olive Tree Ministries this weekend, Jan Markell spent the hour with Christian apologist Mike Gendron.  For over 34 years, Pastor Gendron was a strong defender of his Catholic faith.  After reading the Bible for the first time in 1982, he realized that his previous Catholic teaching contradicted the Bible in many ways.  He understood that the Bible is the inspired, infallible and inerrant Word of God, and it became his supreme authority in all matters of faith.

    Jan and Mike discussed how Pope Francis is the first Jesuit Pope.  He is apocalyptic, a uniter of religions, and is leading many down a wide road to destruction.  His popularity reflects today’s death of discernment.  They considered that the pope possibly may turn out to be the False Prophet, described as the second beast in Revelation 13:11-18.

    Alleged apparitions of the Virgin Mary have occurred all over the world.  Gendron points out that this may be an example of one of the things that would occur just prior to the coming of the lawless one or Antichrist:

    The coming of the lawless one is according to the working of Satan, with all power, signs, and lying wonders.... (1 Thessalonians 2:9)

    These supernatural apparations likely are an example of Satan disguising himself as an “angel of light” in an attempt to unite all the religions of the world.  This message from one of the apparations has been approved by the Roman Catholic Church as a valid message from Mary:

    You saw hell, where the souls of poor sinners go.  In order to save them, God wishes to establish devotion to my immaculate heart in the world.  If people do what I ask, many souls will be saved, and there will be peace.  Only I can help you.  My immaculate heart will be your refuge and the way that will lead you to God.  In the end, my immaculate heart will triumph.

    It is likely that a message like this is a satanic attempt to divert people’s attention away from Christ to Mary as a Mediatrix of all graces, which is a Catholic belief.  She is viewed by many Catholics as a “co-Savior” along with Jesus.

    The apparitions of Mary very well could be the catalyst that will unite Islam and Roman Catholicism, since both religions esteem Mary as the most revered woman who has ever lived.  In Islam’s holiest book, the Qur'an, the nineteenth chapter is Maryam and includes erroneous information about Mary and Jesus ('Iesa).  Many Muslims have been flocking to apparation sites, especially in Fatima, Portugal.  Pope Francis even has indicated that Allah, the god of Islam, and God are one and the same, which they absolutely are not.

    The coming one-world religion will be formed by a union of non-Christian religions and professing Christians who never have been born-again (John 3:3,7).  An increasing number of churches are degrading the message of God, trying to conform God’s Word to a politically correct world.  They are laying the groundwork for a great worldwide delusion.  This will lead to the coming of the Antichrst and the False Prophet, a world government and religion, and a time of unprecedented destruction.

    Pope Francis, the first Jesuit Pope, is a very unconventional pope.  In April 2020, he stated that he is not the vicar of Christ or successor of the Apostles.  Many considered this to be “theological barbarism.”  One of his messages is that all religions and all faiths lead to the same God, which is not true.  Views like this are preparing the way for a one-world religion, and the pope could become the head of that.

    Interestingly, in the 12th Century, St. Malachy O’Morgair, the Archbishop of Armagh, Ireland, had a prophetic vision of the 112 popes following Pope Celestine II, who died in 1144.  In his list of descriptions of all 112 popes, the 112th and final pope is the present Pope Francis:

    St. Malachy's Prophecy of the Final 112 Popes

             

             

    30-second slideshow

    Today’s program, lasting 55 minutes, can be heard here:

    Pope Francis: The Vicar of the New World Order — Audio | Video
    Nov. 27, 2021

    A couple of days ago, I was invited to a Thanksgiving gathering at the home of some close friends.  There were 6 of us around the table eating an outstanding feast.  As usual, I took some snapshots of the food, since I enjoy looking back a few weeks later and remembering what I ate.

           

           

           

           
    50-second slideshow

    Nov. 26, 2021
    Stock Market

    Each year, there are certain weekdays when the stock market (New York Stock Exchange: NYSE) is closed all day.  These are Stock Market Holidays.  There also is at least one day a year on which the NYSE opens at the regular time in the morning (9:30 a.m. ET) but closes three hours early (1:00 p.m. ET).

    In the latter case, the NYSE closes early the day after Thanksgiving of every year, which always is a Friday.  That day is today, and the NYSE closed at 1:00 p.m. ET instead of at 4:00 p.m. ET.  This year, it is the only day that the stock market has closed early after opening at the regular time.

    2021 closes and early closes of the stock market

    It may be a good thing that the stock market closed three hours early today.  This is because there were major losses in world markets and in major stock indices in the U.S., but three hours later the losses might have been worse.

    A new COVID-19 variant, B.11.529, has been found to be spreading through six southern African countries, as well as in Hong Kong.  It appears to be more transmissible than other variants and may be immune to COVID vaccines.  The World Health Organization (WHO) held an emergency meeting today to discuss the new variant, which they have named Omicron.

    World races to contain
    new COVID threat,
    the omicron variant
        WHO names new
    COVID variant
    ‘Omicron’

    Nov. 25, 2021

    This is Thanksgiving Day in the USA.  Our first president, George Washington, issued a General Thanksgiving Proclamation.  Its focus is on the Almighty God, to whom we all should be thankful for both good and happy times, as well as bad and sad times.

             
    15-second slideshow

    In a prayer to the Lord, King David said the following:

    Praise be to you, O LORD, God of our father Israel, from everlasting to everlasting.  Yours, O LORD, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the majesty and the splendor, for everything in heaven and earth is yours.  Yours, O LORD, is the kingdom; you are exalted as head over all.  Wealth and honor come from you; you are the ruler of all things. In your hands are strength and power to exalt and give strength to all.  Now, our God, we give you thanks, and praise your glorious name. (1 Chronicles 29:12-24)

    In his instructions to the Thessalonians, the apostle Paul wrote the following:

    Now we ask you, brothers, to respect those who work hard among you, who are over you in the Lord and who admonish you.  Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work. Live in peace with each other.  And we urge you, brothers, warn those who are idle, encourage the timid, help the weak, be patient with everyone.  Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always try to be kind to each other and to everyone else.  Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.  Do not put out the Spirit's fire; do not treat prophecies with contempt.  Test everything.  Hold on to the good.  Avoid every kind of evil.  May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through.  May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.  The one who calls you is faithful and he will do it. (1 Thessalonians 5:12-24)

    On this special day, the prominent phrase that Paul wrote is, “give thanks in all circumstances.”  For many who are going through difficult and trying circumstances, this is not easy to do.  Spiritual maturity enables us to understand that we should give thanks even for the thorny and challenging things in life.

    It is hard for us to understand why we should be thankful for the terrible things that happen to us, and to others close to us, along this journey of life.  We must realize, though, that we cannot understand the infinite Mind of God, nor can we comprehend His plans and purposes for our lives.  It is in obedience and in faith that we thank God for all things.

    Today, let us remember that God is in charge and in control of all situations.  He allows us to go through hard times to strengthen us and to cause us to depend on Him—rather than on ourselves or other people—even more.  It is one of the greatest lessons we can learn before Jesus returns to rule and reign, when He will wipe away every tear from our eyes.


    Nov. 24, 2021
    Stock Market

    Early this morning, there was an airstrike on sites belonging to Hezbollah in Homs, located in western Syria.  According to Syrian media and reports, Israel is being named as the alleged aggressor.

    The airstrikes were carried out from northeastern Beirut, according to the Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA).  The report claimed that most of the missiles were shot down by Syrian air defenses.

    In the strike, two civilians were killed, another was injured and six soldiers were wounded.  SANA also reported that several missiles were shot down by Syrian forces.

    A week ago, Syrian media reported that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) attacked an empty building south of Damascus, Syria’s capital.  According to the report, one missile in that attack was shot down.  No casualties were reported.

    A week before that, yet another alleged Israeli airstrike, targeting sites in the Homs area, was made.  Two Syrian soldiers were injured, and material damage was done.

    Israeli officials have expressed increasing concern about the expansion of surface-to-air missile systems, produced by Iran, in Syria.  Also, Defense Minister Benny Gantz has noted that Iran used proxies across the region in Syria, Yemen, Lebanon and Iraq.

    So far, there has been no comment from the IDF about any of the recent attacks.  This is in line with its policy of ambiguity regarding its specific activities in Syria.

    2 civilians killed, 6 soldiers wounded
    in Israeli strike on Homs, claims Syria

    Nov. 23, 2021
    Stock Market

    Strategic Petroleum ReserveToday, President Biden directed the release of 50 million barrels of oil from America’s strategic reserve.  He indicated that this will “address the mismatch between demand exiting the pandemic and supply.”  The oil will be released from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve, located in Texas and Louisiana.

    The plan is being carried out in coordination with several other nations, including China, India, Japan, South Korea and the United Kingdom.  It followed weeks of consultations with those nations.

    This comes after many months of significant gas price hikes.  As of today, in the U.S., the average price for a gallon of gasoline nationwide is $3.40, which is a record high.  Many feel that the closing of two major oil pipelines by Biden—the Keystone XL pipeline in January and a Michigan pipeline earlier this month—have been major factors in the decreased availability of gasoline and the spiking of gasoline prices.

    Biden approves release
    of 50 million barrels of
    oil from strategic reserve
        Biden approves release
    of 50 million barrels of
    oil amid rising gas prices

    Nov. 22, 2021
    Stock Market

    My friend JoAnne’s three doggies really like the El Dorado Park Dog Park in Long Beach, and recently we went there.  All of the dogs they encountered were very friendly.

    We walked through one of the larger portions of El Dorado Park, all of which is nice, on the way to and from the dog park.  We all had a fun time.

           

           

           
    38-second slideshow

    Nov. 21, 2021

    God, unseen and eternal

    Many people do not believe in God because they’ve never seen Him.  In their minds, “Seeing is believing.”

    However, countless qualities, features and attributes of God can be seen in His Creation around us.  Observing these and reading about Him in His Word, the Bible, have convinced many skeptics that, indeed, the eternal God does exist.

    For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse. (Romans 1:20)

    Nov. 20, 2021

    At Olive Tree Ministries today, Jan Markell spent the hour with Stephen Briggs, the Director of Operations at Hatikvah Films.  They talked about how there are blessings and curses put upon nations and individuals, based on Genesis 12:3.

    Much of the program included portions of Stephen Briggs’ DVD: “America and the Israel Effect.”  It is a history lesson showing the steps leading to Israel’s becoming a nation again in 1948.

    There also are many examples of how good things have happened to nations that have blessed Israel, while bad things have happened to nations that have cursed Israel.  President Truman, a Democrat, was a key figure in the rebirth and establishment of Israel as a modern nation.  It is concerning that the Biden administration and many members of Congress generally have a negative view of Israel.

             

             

    30-second slideshow

    Today’s program, lasting 55 minutes, can be heard here:

    Blessing or Cursing — Audio | Video
    Nov. 19, 2021
    Stock Market

    This morning, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Build Back Better Act that will cost nearly $2 trillion.  It passed with a vote of 220 to 213.  This happened almost two weeks after the $1.2 trillion infrastructure bill was passed and later signed by President Biden.

    Next month the Senate will take up the bill, where more changes are expected to be made for it to pass.  If so, it will return to the House for another vote.

    House passes Build
    Back Better bill
    after overnight delay
        House Dems pass $2T Biden
    spending plan despite $367B
    deficit warning from CBO


    In other news, one week ago, on November 12, the three judges of the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals upheld their original decision to put on hold President Biden’s COVID-19 vaccine mandate for private companies with over 100 workers.  Among many comments, they said there were “grave statutory and constitutional” concerns with the mandate and called it “staggeringly overbroad.”

    Two days ago, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) suspended the enforcement of the vaccine mandate for large companies.  However, Biden is still asking companies to voluntarily enforce a vaccine mandate, arguing that it ultimately will save them money and help operations.  There still may be future developments in the vaccine mandate litigation.

    OSHA Gives Up On
    Employer COVID Vaccine
    Mandate Amid Court Order
        OSHA suspends Biden’s
    COVID-19 vaccine mandate
    after court challenge

    Nov. 18, 2021
    Stock Market

    Partial lunar eclipse November 18,19There will be a full moon tonight, and many places on Earth will observe a very lengthy partial lunar eclipse.  It will be the longest partial lunar eclipse in the past 580 years.

    From the beginning visibility at the initial penumbral phase to the end of visibility at the final penumbral phase, the partial eclipse will last just over 6 hours.  At the maximum portion of the eclipse, 97.4% of the moon will be in Earth’s shadow.

    The penumbral phase of the eclipse will begin at 10:02 p.m. PST tonight or 1:02 a.m. EST tomorrow morning.  The time of the maximum (97.4%) eclipse will be 1:02 a.m. PST or 4:02 a.m. EST tomorrow morning.  The final penumbral phase will end at 4:03 a.m. PST or 7:03 a.m. EST tomorrow morning.

    Partial lunar eclipse times

    At least some portion of the partial eclipse will be visible in North, Central and South America, eastern Europe and Africa, western Asia, all of Australia and the Pacific islands.  In just over two weeks, when there is a new moon, there will be a total eclipse of the sun that will be seen in Antarctica and in the southernmost portions of South America, Africa, Australia and New Zealand on December 4.

    Deep partial lunar
    eclipse November 18-19:
    Great for North America
        November 18–19,
    2021 Partial
    Lunar Eclipse

    Nov. 17, 2021
    Stock Market

    Earlier this week, President Biden signed the $1.2 trillion infrastructure bill into law.  It was approved by the House of Representatives just over a week ago on Nov. 8.

    Last week, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said that the House plans to pass the more expensive Build Back Better Act this week.  It is projected to be approximately a $1.75 trillion spending measure.

    However, the Congressional Budget Office still is in the process of negotiating with lawmakers to finalize the contents of the massive bill.  It is a very complex procedure, which could take much longer than expected, and there is no guarantee that it ultimately will pass in the House and the Senate.

    Build Back Better plan may clear
    House this week, as White House
    says bill will combat inflation
        House Dems vow to pass
    $1.75T spending plan —
    but still face big hurdle

    Nov. 16, 2021
    Stock Market

    The annual Leonid Meteor Shower is happening this week.  It is one of the most famous of the annual meteor displays.  It peaks tonight and into early tomorrow (Nov. 16-17).

    The meteor shower can be seen by viewers from both hemispheres.  However, with the moon approaching its full phase soon, the bright moonlight probably will cause fewer meteors than usual to be visible.  The best chance of seeing the most meteors is tonight and tomorrow night.

    Leonid meteor shower 2021:
    When, where & how to see it


    Nov. 15, 2021
    Stock Market

    California, the most populous state, has the highest gasoline prices in the nation.  Yesterday, the national average was $3.413 per gallon.

    Earlier this past weekend, California tied its own record-high average gasoline price of $4.671 per gallon, which was set in October 2012.  Yesterday, it reached a new high average price of $4.676 per gallon state-wide.

    California average gas
    prices hit all-time record high
        California Sets New Record-
    High Average Gas Prices

    I’ve taken a few quick snapshots of gas prices in Orange and Los Angeles counties recently.  It doesn’t look like prices will be going down anytime soon.

             
    15-second slideshow

    Nov. 14, 2021

    On November 4, the Biden administration indicated that its COVID vaccine mandate rules would go into effect on January 4, 2022.  They would apply to private businesses with 100 or more employees, certain health care workers and federal contractors.  Employees failing to comply with the rules could be fined $14,000 per infraction.

    On November 6, the U.S. Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals in Louisiana listened to several arguments against the vaccine mandate.  Then this court granted a temporary stay against the federal vaccine mandate.

    On November 8, OSHA (who originally issued the mandate back in September) and Labor Department attorneys filed a brief with the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals.  In support of the vaccine mandate, they outlined reasons why they felt it should go into effect early next year, as planned.

    Two nights ago, on November 12, the three judges of the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals upheld their original decision to put on hold President Biden’s vaccine mandate for private companies with over 100 workers.  Among many statements, they called the mandate “staggeringly overbroad.”

    White House officials had no immediate comment on the ruling.  Most likely, arguments from both sides will continue.

    ‘Staggeringly overbroad’:
    Court affirms pause on Biden
    vax mandate for private biz
        U.S. appeals court
    affirms hold on Biden
    COVID-19 vaccine mandate

    Nov. 13, 2021

    At Olive Tree Ministries today, Jan Markell spent the hour with Pastor Billy Crone.  They discussed how tyranny is rising as the World Economic Forum continues moving toward installing a global government.  Jan and Billy agree that this is reality, not a conspiracy.

    Governments have been using the COVID pandemic—which, in effect, is a “plandemic”—to get people used to having the government take care of our every need.  They gradually are getting rid of the idea of national sovereignty so that people will develop a global mindset.  Essentially, the pandemic has set the stage for the Great Reset globally.

    The goal is for the global elite to own everything and to dictate the things that people do.  Regular people will own nothing in an alleged “utopia” and will be happy about it.  This will be descriptive of the Antichrist kingdom.

    The push for globalism in the last 200 years could culminate in the very near future.  All of this is outlined in the Bible, particularly in the book of Revelation.

             

             

    30-second slideshow

    Today’s program, lasting 55 minutes, can be heard here:

    You Will Own Nothing and Be Happy — Audio | Video
    Nov. 12, 2021
    Stock Market

    A friend told me about an over-the-counter COVID-19 self test that he had tried.  He said that it was relatively easy to perform, and he had tested negative.

    I’ve never had any COVID symptoms but was curious about that self test.  I assumed that I would test negative.  I thought it might be a good idea to know how to do the test in case I happen to have symptoms in the future.  I figured it would be easier to repeat the test again, since I’d already done it before.

    I bought the over-the-counter BinaxNOW™ COVID-19 test at Walmart for $14.00 + tax.  There are two tests per box.  It does not need to be prescribed by a doctor, nor is it purchased at the pharmacy.  It seems like it would be an appropriate test whether or not someone has received a COVID vaccinations, since many “breakthrough” cases have occurred in vaccinated people.  A complete description of the test can be read here:

    BinaxNOW™ COVID-19 Antigen SelfTEST

    I performed the test yesterday.  I read the instructions, thoroughly washed my hands, put on a pair of clean rubber gloves and removed all the necessary items from the box.  After that, it took less than 15 minutes to complete the testing process.  Then I waited 15 minutes to see the result.

    The process included swabbing the inside of each nostril, using the same swab for both, about an inch up my nose.  I rubbed the swab slowly around 5 big circles inside, which took about 15 seconds per nostril.  It was uncomfortable but bearable.

    After inserting the cotton tip of the swab into the bottom hole and up to the top hole of the card (where I already had put exactly 6 drops of the solution), I turned the swab around 3 times.  Then I sealed the card closed, left the swab there and waited 15 minutes.

    A light purple line appeared in the CONTROL window, as it was supposed to.  However, no pink or purple line, not even a faint one, appeared in the SAMPLE window.  Even after 10 more minutes, nothing had appeared in the SAMPLE window.  So I’m convinced that I am COVID negative.    I probably will not repeat the test in the next couple of days (as is suggested in the instructions) but only if and when I ever have COVID symptoms.

           

           
    25-second slideshow

    Nov. 11, 2021
    Stock Market

    Today is the 103rd anniversary of Veterans Day, originally known as Armistice Day.  World War I formally ended at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month of 1918.  Veterans Day is an official public holiday in the U.S.

             
    15-second slideshow

    To all the vets out there:  Thank you for your service, your sacrifice, and your faithfulness.  Many of you have paid an extremely high price for my freedom, and I appreciate that.

    If you are an American, remember Veterans Day.  Fly your flag today if you have one, and thank a veteran.


    Nov. 10, 2021
    Stock Market

    Following the lengthy police chase described on Nov. 4, I have traveled a couple of times down the 55 Freeway and then down the 405 Freeway on my way to Irvine.  When a friend was driving, I decided to take a few quick photos and display them here.

    Most of the major 55 Freeway has 4 lanes (and 5 to 6 lanes in some places) going in each direction.  The stolen big rig, traveling south (the direction I was going), stopped in one of the middle lanes.

    It took several hours for the driver to get out of the truck and surrender to police.  Then it took quite awhile for the damaged truck to be towed off.  During all of that time, hundreds of unfortunate drivers were stopped and could not move their vehicles.

    Some of the drivers may have been on their way to John Wayne Airport.  If so, many of them may have arrived too late and missed their flights, which never is a good thing. 

           
    15-second slideshow

    Nov. 9, 2021
    Stock Market

    Fifth Circuit Court of AppealsLast week, on November 4, the Biden administration announced that its COVID vaccine rules will take effect on January 4, 2022.  The rules apply to private businesses with 100 or more employees, certain health care workers and federal contractors.  The rules mandate that employees who fall into those groups will need to receive the necessary shots to be fully vaccinated, either with two doses of Pfizer or Moderna’s vaccine or one dose of Johnson & Johnson’s vaccine, no later than January 4.

    On November 6, the U.S. Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals in Louisiana accepted arguments submitted by more than two dozen states against the vaccine mandate.  After considering the arguments, the court indicated that the mandate had “grave statutory and constitutional” concerns.  Then it granted a temporary stay against the federal vaccine mandate.

    Yesterday, the federal government responded to the court’s mandate injunction.  Attorneys for OSHA (who originally issued the mandate back in September) and the Labor Department filed a brief with the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals.  Among other things, it indicated that the court’s stay of the mandate could result in “hundreds” of deaths each day and that there is “considerable evidence” and legal precedents to support the federal mandate.

    Arguments from both sides will continue.  It is possible that the litigation will end up in the U.S. Supreme Court.

    US appeals court
    blocks Biden’s federal
    COVID-19 vaccine mandate
        Gov't attorneys: Joe
    Biden's COVID-19 vaccine
    mandate will save lives

    Nov. 8, 2021
    Stock Market

    Earlier this weekend, the U.S. House of Representatives passed a $1.2 trillion infrastructure bill.  It was approved with a vote of 228 to 206, with 13 Republicans voting for it and 6 Democrats voting against it.  President Biden probably will sign it into law sometime this week.

    The bill had been passed in the Senate back in August 69 to 30.  At that time, all 50 Democratic senators, along with 19 Republican senators, voted to pass it.

    Biden calls $1.2 trillion
    infrastructure bill a "once-
    in-a-generation" investment
        GOPers help House pass
    $1.2T infrastructure bill
    after Dem ‘clusterf—’

    There may be a vote on a much more expensive Build Back Better bill by the end of the month.  However, there is more opposition to it than there was to the infrastructure bill.

    The Post says: Sen. Joe Manchin
    needs to nix the $4T mess

    Nov. 7, 2021

    Daylight Saving Time ended today, and Standard Time began.  In states that observe this change, all clocks should be set back one hour.  Standard Time will continue until Sunday, March 13, when Daylight Saving Time will begin again and clocks in most states will be set ahead one hour.

    Fall back to Daylight Saving Time
    Nov. 6, 2021

    At Olive Tree Ministries today, Jan Markell spent the hour with Pastor Brandon Holthaus.  They talked about how the crisis of a virus has set the stage for the end game: a one-world system.  It promotes globalism instead of nationalism.

    As various crises continue to spread through the world, people will get nervous and anxious enough to look for and honor someone that they feel can bring order out of chaos.  Ultimately, that person will be the Antichrist, who actually will bring disaster to the world.

    Now efforts are being introduced, such as people’s social credit scores, where they cannot buy or sell without a proper score.  Having a high ESG score probably will become part of this process as well.

    Globalists are trying to reset the world to form their new world order.  The rush to globalize by 2030 may have been pushed up to 2023.  Christian believers will need to stand for righteousness during the coming darkness.

             

             

    30-second slideshow

    Today’s program, lasting 55 minutes, can be heard here:

    The End Game – Pastor Brandon Holthaus — Audio | Video


    Most of the United States will “fall back” to Standard Time early tomorrow (Sunday) morning at 2:00 a.m.  I like the following clock because it is accurate to the second, plus it can be adjusted to any time zone: https://time.gov.  Except for Hawaii and most of Arizona, don’t forget to set your clocks back one hour before you go to bed tonight.

    Daylight Saving Time Ends
    in USA & Canada

    Some people prefer Standard Time because they typically get up early and like it when the sun rises an hour earlier.  Personally, I prefer Daylight Saving Time because I like the extra hour of sunlight at the end of the day.  I wish Daylight Saving Time could continue year-round.


    Nov. 5, 2021
    Stock Market

    Double Asteroid Redirection Test missionFor some time, NASA (National Aeronautics Space Administration) has been planning a Double Asteroid Redirection Test (DART).  The ultimate purpose of the mission is to prevent an asteroid from making a hazardous and destructive impact on Earth at some point in the future.

    The target of the DART mission is Didymos, a binary near-Earth asteroid.  Didymos is composed of a primary body, about 780 meters across, and a smaller secondary body (or “moonlet”), about 160 meters across, called Dimorphos.  The smaller asteroid is more typical of the size of asteroids that could pose the most significant threat to Earth.  Presently, the Didymos asteroids do not pose any threat.

    The plan is for the DART spacecraft to crash into the moonlet, Dimorphos.  That will change the speed of the moonlet in its orbit around the larger asteroid, and this is expected to change the orbital period of the moonlet by several minutes.  This process will be observed and measured by telescopes on Earth.

    DART’s scheduled launch date is this month on November 23.  However, the spacecraft will not reach the Didymos moonlet until late September of 2022.  After that, measurements of the effects of the impact will be made to help better prepare for the possibility of an actual asteroid threat in the future and the need to change the course of that asteroid.

    APL DART Team Prepares
    for Launch of NASA’s First
    Planetary Defense Test Mission
        Double Asteroid
    Redirection Test
    (DART) Mission

    Nov. 4, 2021
    Stock Market

    Probably the lengthiest police chase I’ve ever heard of here in southern California began last night and ended this morning.  It lasted over 12 hours.

    A little after 8:00 p.m. last night, a 22-year-old male stole a big rig truck from Individual Food Service, a food service company in East Los Angeles.  This immediately was reported to the police.

    Officers chased the driver in helicopters and patrol vehicles as the semi-truck traveled through several cities in the San Fernando Valley.  The chase continued into Ventura County, back down into Los Angeles County, and further southeast into Orange County.

    Along the way, police placed at least five spike strips in front of the truck.  Multiple tires were blown out with many, or maybe all, of the eighteen tires completely blown off.  The wheels were rolling on the rims with sparks shooting out.  However, somehow the thief kept driving into the night down the 5 Freeway.

    Eventually, he came to the 55 Freeway and headed south into Santa Ana (the County Seat of Orange County).  At about 3:00 a.m. this morning, the truck came to a stop in the middle lane of this major Orange County freeway.  That began a prolonged standoff while the driver, Bryan Santana of Los Angeles, remained in the cab of the truck for about 5½ hours.

    Hundreds of drivers were stranded on the freeway and were unable to move the entire time.  That included during the considerable period of time that it took to tow the large disabled truck off of the freeway.

    Finally, at about 8:35 a.m., police were able to convince the driver to come out of the truck peacefully.  Santana was arrested and booked for stealing a vehicle and evading police.  It seems quite appropriate now that Santana is in a Santa Ana jail.

    Wild Southland Pursuit With Stolen Big
    Rig Turns Into Standoff in Santa Ana;
    22-Year-Old Bryan Santana of LA Arrested
        The big rig theft suspect in
    a police standoff at the 55
    Freeway is finally under arrest

    I’ve traveled on the 5 Fwy and 55 Fwy countless times over the decades and have been delayed by many traffic jams.  I empathize with everyone who was stuck on the freeways last night and this morning and feel very fortunate that I was not among those who were.


    Nov. 3, 2021
    Stock Market

    Yesterday, in Virginia’s gubernatorial race, Republican Glenn Youngkin defeated Democrat Terry McAuliffe.  With over 99% of the votes counted, Youngkin is ahead 50.7% to 48.6%.

    Republicans Winsome Sears and Jason Miyares were elected as Virginia’s lieutenant governor and attorney general, respectively.  Republicans also made major gains in the Virginia House of Delegates.

    McAuliffe formally conceded the race this morning.  He congratulated Youngkin and said he is “confident” in the long-term path of Virginia.  He also pushed for a number of the liberal initiatives that he highlighted during the campaign.

    Terry McAuliffe
    officially concedes
    Virginia governor’s race
        House Republicans
    frame Youngkin win as a
    rejection of Biden agenda

    Nov. 2, 2021
    Stock Market

    The Atlanta Braves are the World Series champions after beating the Houston Astros tonight in game 6.  The game lasted 9 innings.  Had the Astros won the 6th game, the tie-breaking 7th game would have been played in Houston tomorrow night.  The Braves last won the World Series in 1995.  Congratulations Braves!

    The 6th game’s final score was Braves 7, Astros 0.  Here are the scores for the final game tonight and the runs, hits and errors for all of the innings:

    Braves 7, Astros 6 in the final game of the 2021 World Series

    In the series, the Braves won 4 games and the Astros won 2 games.  Here are some stats and scores for the 6 games:

    Tuesday, Oct. 26
    Game 1 — Atlanta at Houston
    9 innings
    6    2

    Wednesday, Oct. 27
    Game 2 — Atlanta at Houston
    8½ innings
    7    2

    Friday, Oct. 29
    Game 3 — Houston at Atlanta
    8½ innings
    2    0

       

    Saturday, Oct. 30
    Game 4 — Houston at Atlanta
    8½ innings
    3    2

    Sunday, Oct. 31
    Game 5 — Houston at Atlanta
    9 innings
    9    5

    Tuesday, Nov. 2
    Game 6 — Atlanta at Houston
    9 innings
    7    0


    Nov. 1, 2021
    Stock Market

    The best thing about Halloween is half-priced candy the next day.  I purchased 81.8 ounces (5.11 pounds) of candy today.  Some of it will be going to friends.  I doubt that the texting witch will be eating any. 

     
    5-second slideshow

    Oct. 31, 2021

    I wonder how many Christians believe that God’s “chosen people” no longer are the Israelites and the Jews but, exclusively, are the Church of Christian believers.  I do not believe this at all.  By no means will God ever permanently abandon Israel, and His everlasting promises to Israel will take place.  I have written a lengthy commentary to explain all of this and more:

    God’s Covenant: with
    Israel or the Church?

    I also wonder how many Christians know the following things about Jesus (Yeshua or Yahshua in Hebrew):

    • He was a Jew who lived strictly by the Law of the Torah.
    • He came to fulfill the Torah Law, not to abolish it.
    • He observed all of the Hebraic/Jewish feasts, festivals, and holy days in both the Spring and the Fall.
    • He died on Passover.
    • He lay in a tomb during the first part of the Feast of Unleavened Bread.
    • He rose from the dead on the Feast of Firstfruits (which has been given the inappropriate name of “Easter”).
    • His Holy Spirit came to Jews at Pentecost, which also was at the Feast of Weeks (or Shavuot).
    • He will appear in the clouds to take believers to be with Him, at the Rapture, on the Feast of Trumpets (or Rosh HaShanah).
    • His second advent back to earth will be on Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement.
    • He will require representatives from all the nations of the world to go to Jerusalem to celebrate the Feast of Tabernacles (or Sukkot), each year, throughout the Millennium.
    • His birthday most likely is during the Feast of Tabernacles (late September to mid October), not on the Christianized day of “Christmas” (December 25).

    Many Christians celebrate Hebraic/Jewish feasts, festivals, and holy days (see a calendar for the next few years).  It is not because they have converted to Judaism or are “Jewish wannabes.”  Rather, they have come to an understanding that they have been “grafted in” to Israel—with whom God’s original covenant was made—and without Israel, they would be lost.  These and similar topics are taught, in numerous programs, on God’s Learning Channel.  You can Watch It Live 24 hours a day.  (Note:  I do not endorse all teachings by every programmer.)

    Oh, in case you’re wondering why I didn’t say anything about Halloween, it’s because I consider it to be one of many pagan holidays that, unfortunately, too many Christians celebrate.  I am not one of them, although I do have a favorite Halloween photo that I took in Alabama exactly 11 years ago: witch text.  The best thing about Halloween is half-priced candy the next day. 


    Oct. 30, 2021

    At Olive Tree Ministries today, Jan Markell played a message by teacher Amir Tsarfati.  He gave this presentation at the Behold He Comes Conference in Chino Hills, California, on September 11, 2021.

    Twenty years ago, Amir Tsarfati happened to be in the twin towers in Manhattan the day before the 9/11/01 attack.  The next day, while in New Jersey, he looked across the Hudson River and watched them fall.  Prior to that, he had believed that an Islamic attack was going to come upon America.  Then indeed, on 9/11, radical Islam made its violent terror attack.  He feels that, most likely, it will not be the last.

    In his presentation, Amir’s initial question was, “Is the ‘final jihad’ tied to the ‘last trumpet’?”  Jihad is a struggle or fight against enemies of Islam, which fundamental Islamists consider to be those who do not worship Allah as their god.  Ultimately, the world will have to face the Final Jihad.

    However, at the last trumpet—the trumpet call of God—believers in Jesus will be changed into our imperishable and immortal bodies (1 Corinthians 15:51-54).  Then we will be caught up to meet the Lord in the air, and we will be with Him forever (1 Thessalonians 4:16,17).

             

             

    30-second slideshow

    Today’s program, lasting 1 hour, can be heard here:

    The Final Jihad – Amir Tsarfati — Audio | Video
    Oct. 29, 2021
    Stock Market

    Mark Zuckerberg and MetaMark Zuckerberg, who founded Facebook in 2005, officially has become the CEO and chairman of Meta, the new parent company name for Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp.  He bought Instagram in 2012 and WhatsApp in 2014.

    He announced the rebrand to Meta yesterday at his company’s annual Connect conference.  However, the process of transitioning to Meta began over six months ago.

    Zuckerberg has said that the new name is part of his company’s long-term plan to create a “metaverse.”  This will involve the development of a virtual-reality environment where users can socialize, work, learn, shop, play games and create art, among other things.

    Over the past few weeks, Facebook has been hit with a barrage of criticism.  This was due to leaked internal documents to the media by a former employee.  Some feel that the timing of the transition to Meta is a way for Zuckerberg to distance himself and the company brand from the name Facebook.

    However, according to Zuckerberg, the current cycle of bad news “had nothing to bear on this.  Even though I think some people might want to make that connection, I think that’s sort of a ridiculous thing.  If anything, I think that this is not the environment that you would want to introduce a new brand in.

    Facebook to
    change corporate
    name to Meta
        Facebook changes its
    corporate name to ‘Meta’
    amid torrent of scandals


    Oct. 28, 2021
    Stock Market

    President Biden is on his way today to two global summits.  The first will last for two days in Rome, Italy, and the second will last for two days in Glasgow, Scotland.

    This morning, before his departure to Europe, Biden gave a public speech.  He delivered remarks on his Build Back Better framework.

    He talked about his revised economic agenda saying that it will “create millions of jobs, grow the economy, invest in our nation and our people” among other things.  It is estimated by the White House that the plan will cost $1.75 trillion.

    Biden pitches $1.75T reconciliation
    bill framework as 'historic' with
    progressives still not on board
        Biden Bound for Global
    Summits, Aims to Pass
    Domestic Agenda

    The news conference, lasting a little under 23 minutes, can be viewed below:


    Oct. 27, 2021
    Stock Market

    Almost a week ago, on Oct. 21, a fatal shooting took place on the set of the movie “Rust.”  This happened on Bonanza Creek Ranch in Santa Fe County, New Mexico.  Actor and producer Alec Baldwin fired what he evidently thought was an unloaded prop gun, killing cinematographer Halyna Hutchins and wounding director Joel Souza.

    The lead projectile, which went through Hutchins’ body, landed in Souza’s shoulder.  It was retrieved and now is believed to be a live round.

    Today, a press conference was held in Santa Fe.  Sheriff Adan Mendoza and Santa Fe District Attorney Mary Carmack-Altwies responded to numerous questions about the incident.

    Santa Fe County Sheriff says
    'facts are clear' that a 'live
    round' was fired by Alec Baldwin
        'Rust' movie shooting
    broke number one rule of
    gun safety, expert says

    The news conference, lasting a little over 23 minutes, can be viewed below:


    Oct. 26, 2021
    Stock Market

    Atlanta Braves vs. Houston Astros

    The two teams in the 2021 World Series will be the Atlanta Braves and the Houston Astros.  The first game will be played tonight in Houston at Minute Maid Park.  It is scheduled to begin at 8:09 p.m. EDT.

    World Series 2021:
    What to know about
    the Fall Classic
        2021 World Series preview:
    Five storylines to watch in
    Braves-Astros matchup

    World Series Postseason Picture
    Oct. 25, 2021
    Stock Market

    Bomb cyclone in northwest U.S. Bomb cyclone in northwest U.S.
    An uncommon weather event came ashore in Washington, Oregon and northern California yesteday.  It is known as a “bomb cyclone” that forms when a process called bombogenesis occurs.

    This happens when a mid-latitude storm intensifies rapidly by dropping at least 24 millibars of atmospheric pressure over a 24-hour period.  A normal 24-hour drop is around 10 to 15 millibars, so a 24 millibar drop is significant.

    The swift drop in atmospheric pressure can happen when a cold air mass collides with a warm air mass, such as over warm ocean waters.  In this case, the fast-strengthening weather system has generated a bomb cyclone.

    Atmospheric storms like this have category ratings, but they are not the same as hurricane ratings.  This particular storm has a Category 5 rating, which is the highest possible.

    This storm has been generating heavy rain, damaging winds, flooding and landslides.  Cities like Sacramento and San Francisco have had record-breaking amounts of rain for the month of October.  Hundreds of thousands of people along the coast lost electrical power.

    Areas severely burned for months by wildfires have experienced major mudslides.  Debris flows have been forcing road closures.  As the storm moves east, heavy snow is hitting the Sierra Nevada mountain range, probably resulting in an early ski season.

    'Too fast, too furious': Bomb
    cyclone, atmospheric river pound
    California with heavy rain, flooding
        Bomb cyclone and
    atmospheric river lash
    Northern California

    I was in Marin County, north of San Francisco, for a few weeks last month.  Much of that county has been soaked by the rain from the bomb cyclone.  Kentfield received at least 10 inches of rain just yesterday.

    I’m glad I am back down in Orange County again.  There was a moderate amount of rain and wind, with totally gray skies, here in Anaheim today.  Other than that, the storm has not had much of an effect here.


    Oct. 24, 2021

    In one of the apostle Paul’s letters to Timothy, he described what the world would be like in the last days or at the end of the age.  Other descriptions besides “perilous” are terrible, difficult, dreadful, hazardous and treacherous.

    The main reason for this will be due to a turning away, by the people of the world in every nation, from the one true God and His lawful ways.  Of course, not all will turn away from God, but there will be an increasing trend to do so.

    The ways of God are righteousness, justice, lawfulness, peace and love.  When most of the world turns away from God and His uprightness, the worst of times inevitably will result.  Many Christians feel that they will be able to reverse this trend and bring goodness and purity back into the world.  They believe that this is what it will take to motivate Jesus to return to a wonderful world that has turned back to God.

    However, the primary reason why Jesus will return is because the world will become so evil, sinful and wicked that humanity would utterly destroy itself if He did not return and prevent that from happening.  Fortunately, He will be the light at the end of that horrendously dark tunnel.  He will bring the magnificent and glorious Kingdom of God to earth, for a thousand years, when He returns to rule and reign over the whole world.


    Oct. 23, 2021

    At Olive Tree Ministries today, Jan Markell spent the hour with author and associate pastor David Fiorazo.  The ruling elites are establishing the Antichrist culture.  Medical tyranny is leading to overall tyranny.

    Historically, when government grows in power amd takes new ground, it almost never gives it back.  Government is emboldened and is acting as god.  The righteous are silenced, suppressed and shadow banned.

    There is growing persecution of believers in the western world.  It arises from discrimination of those who hold a biblical Christian world view.  Even pastors are finding themselves in prison for their faith.  It may be that vaccine passports, required for church attendance, are coming.

             

             

    30-second slideshow

    Today’s program, lasting 56 minutes, can be heard here:

    When Governments Must Be God — Audio | Video
    Oct. 22, 2021
    Stock Market

    I’m visiting my friend JoAnne in Anaheim.  In a couple of days, she’ll be leaving for North Carolina to visit a mutual friend for a week.  I will be taking care of her 3 dogs while she’s gone, so they’re “transitioning” to me before she leaves.

    We were craving hot spicy Thai food, so we went to Jumpa Thai restaurant in Garden Grove.  Not only do we really like their tasty food, but we also like their reasonable lunch special price of $7.95.  She got spicy basil with extra vegetables, and I got ped mak mak red curry chicken.  As usual, the food and the service were excellent.

             
    15-second slideshow

    Oct. 21, 2021
    Stock Market

    A good friend’s parents both died of Alzheimer’s disease in the past few years.  Furthermore, all four of their parents suffered and died from Alzheimer’s.  Understandably, my friend has been very concerned that she is more likely than not to develop this condition at some point.

    I did a quick search about that topic today.  I took screen shots of some information about Alzheimer’s and emailed them to her.  Here are links to the three sets of information:

    Alzheimer's disease overview
    Alzheimer's disease symptoms
    Alzheimer's Questions

    My friend is becoming increasingly convinced that she already has some early Alzheimer’s symptoms.  She said that she definitely wants to make some permanent changes in her diet soon, including cutting out bacon, ham, white bread, white rice and sugar, as well as adding more fruits, vegetables, nuts and whole grains.


    Oct. 20, 2021
    Stock Market

    In the U.S. Senate today, a voting rights bill failed to pass for the third time this year.  The legislation was a Democratic response against the passage of election security overhauls in Republican-led states.

    The “Freedom to Vote Act” needed at least 60 votes to overcome a Republican filibuster, but it fell far short of that.  The vote was 49 for and 51 against.  It would have been a tie; however, in a procedural move, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) voted with all 50 Republicans.  This will allow him, at some point, to submit this legislation again for a re-vote.

    Republicans feel that the legislation would be an infringement on the right of states to dictate their own election laws.  Today’s voting rights legislation would have established a federal election framework, created rules preventing partisan redistricting, and overhauled the campaign finance system.

    Senate Republicans block Democrats'
    federal voting rights legislation

    Oct. 19, 2021
    Stock Market

    During July and August, over 37,800 unaccompanied minors entered the U.S. from Mexico.  For over two months, planeloads of underage migrants have been flown out of Texas.  It evidently is an effort by the Biden administration to secretly resettle them into other states.

    Last week, two planes landed at the Westchester County Airport north of New York City.  Most of the passengers who deboarded the planes were children and teens, with a small portion appearing to be young men in their 20s.  The passengers then piled into buses that drove away.

    Later, some were seen meeting up with relatives or sponsors in New Jersey or being dropped off at a residential facility on Long Island.  Other migrants have been flown to other states as well, including Connecticut and Florida, where they were released.

    The majority of the flights have been at night.  The clandestine nature of the whole operation raises questions about how the White House is dealing with a surge in unaccompanied minors and young adults crossing over the border with Mexico.

    Why Biden won’t tell you where
    the record number of illegal
    immigrants in the US are going
        Psaki denies transporting illegal
    immigrants at 2:30 am is 'middle
    of the night,' calls it 'early flight'

    The process of flying immigrants to states outside of Texas may accelerate soon.  It has been reported by Univision that, on the morning of October 23, at least 95,000 migrants are planning to begin marching north through Mexico to the United States.  They are said to be a mix of Haitians and Central Americans.

    This large influx of people is being called the “Caravana Madre” (mother caravan).  Some are referring to it as “the mother of all caravans” because so many people are expected to be part of it.  Some expect that, by the end of December, the number of migrants will exceed 145,000.


    Oct. 18, 2021
    Stock Market

    Colin PowellColin Powell passed away today at the age of 84.  His death was the result of complications from COVID-19.  Although he had been full vaccinated against the virus, he also had mutiple myeloma, a type of blood cancer, that most likely damaged his immune system and made it harder for his body to fight off infections.

    Powell served as the 65th secretary of state during George W. Bush’s presidency from 2001 to 2005.  He also served as the 16th national security advisor from 1987 to 1989 and the 12th chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff from 1989 to 1993 who led the first Gulf War.  He earned the Presidential Medal of Freedom twice.

    President Biden expressed his condolences and said that Powell “embodied the highest ideals of both warrior and diplomat.”  Former President Bush was saddened by Powell’s death and said, “He was a great public servant, starting with his time as a soldier during Vietnam.  Many presidents relied on General Powell’s counsel and experience.

    Colin Powell, a former
    secretary of state, dies at 84
        Colin Powell has died of COVID-19
    complications, family says

    Oct. 17, 2021

    I’ll never forget the 6.9 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake.  A great deal of damage was done to San Francisco and the Bay Area due to that sizeable quake.

    The temblor interrupted the third game of the World Series between the San Francisco Giants and Oakland Athletics.  Because of this, a great many people in the Bay Area were watching the game rather than driving on streets and freeways, and rush hour traffic was lighter than normal.  Most likely, this resulted in a small fraction of the injuries and deaths than otherwise would have occurred, had the quake taken place on a typical weekday.

             
    15-second slideshow

    The 1989 Loma
    Prieta Earthquake
        Point Richmond photo exhibit recalls Loma
    Prieta quake as anniversary approaches

    It was late afternoon that day, and I was sound asleep in a chair next to the swimming pool half a block away from my home in Irvine.  At 5:04 p.m., I suddenly woke up but had no idea why.  It felt like someone had shaken my chair, but no one was around and there were no unusual noises.  I am an extremely light sleeper, though.

    I got up, walked home, turned on the TV, and soon saw news about the large earthquake.  To this day, I suspect that a small wave from the quake jarred me awake, even though I was located almost 350 miles southeast of the epicenter.

    An earthquake alert system is available for those in California and Oregon.  It doesn’t predict shaking before it happens, but it can warn people before the tremors reach them.

    Earthquake Early Warning now available
    publicly in California and Oregon

    Oct. 16, 2021

    At Olive Tree Ministries today, Jan Markell spent the hour with Jeff Kinley and Todd Hampson.  They talked about how final day events are escalating so rapidly that watchmen cannot keep up with them.

    Prophecy makes up about 28% of the entire Bible.  Since they are contained in the Bible, then Christians should be familiar with them.

    • 1 out of every 30 verses in the New Testament contains prophecy.
    • There are a total of 8,000 prophetic verses in the New Testament.
    • 23 out of 27 New Testament books mention the second coming of Jesus.
    • For every time the first coming of Jesus is mentioned, the second coming is mentioned 8 times.
    • The first prophecy concerning Jesus Christ is found in Genesis 3:15.
    • There are 333 prophecies concerning Jesus Christ; only 109 of them were fulfilled at His first coming, leaving 224 prophecies yet to be fulfilled.

             

             

    30-second slideshow

    Today’s program, lasting 56 minutes, can be heard here:

    Earth’s Final Hours — Audio | Video

    Personally, I agree with the majority of the points made by Jan Markell, Jeff Kinley and Todd Hampson.  Among other things, I agree with their views on the Millennium and the New Heaven and New Earth (see old and new Creations).

    Those who believe in a Pre-tribulation Rapture feel that the whole tribulation period will consist of the wrath of God.  I am convinced that, during that period, only a portion of it—the Day of the Lord or day of vengeance—will comprise God’s wrath and will be preceded by the Pre-Wrath Rapture.

    I definitely do believe in a main Rapture event, but I see it as a Pre-wrath Rapture rather than as a Pre-tribulation Rapture, with which I disagree:

  • Is the Pre-tribulation view of the Rapture the correct view?

  • Oct. 15, 2021
    Stock Market

    The Social Security Administration (SSA) has announced that millions of Americans soon will receive an increase of 5.9% in their Social Security benefits, beginning in January 2022.  This is the result of a cost-of-living adjustment (COLA), the largest since 1983 when there was a 7.4% increase.

    More than 64 million Social Security (SS) beneficiaries will receive a 5.9% COLA in their regular SS payments early next year.  For about 8 million Supplemental Security Income (SSI) beneficiaries—mainly aged, blind and disabled people—the 5.9% increase will begin on December 30, 2021.

    2022 Social Security Changes
     
    Social Security Changes
    Coming in 2022
        New Social Security increase:
    What 5.9% more means per month

    Oct. 13, 2021
    Stock Market

    Last evening, the U.S. House of Representatives voted to pass the legislation necessary to extend the federal debt limit for almost two more months, until December 3.  This legislation was passed by the Senate a few days ago on Oct. 8.

    The borrowing limit was raised by $480 billion to $28.9 trillion.  This will avoid the debt default that otherwise would have taken place on October 18.  The House bill was passed by a vote of 219 to 206, with no Republican support.  President Biden is expected to sign the bill soon.

    The process of raising the federal debt ceiling before December 3 will be a very complex and difficult process in Congress to pass a more long-term debt limit.  If it does not happen by then, the federal government will shut down until such legislation is passed.  It also could have a negative effect on the economy and on the stock market.

    The House approves 2-month debt limit
    extension, teeing up another showdown
    with McConnell's GOP in December
        House sends debt-ceiling
    hike to Biden, avoiding
    default — for now

    Oct. 12, 2021
    Stock Market

    Santee, California, is a city in San Diego County, a few miles northeast of downtown San Diego.  It is considered to be a suburb of San Diego.

    Yesterday, a little after noon, a twin-engine Cessna 340 plane plumeted and crashed into a Santee neighborhood.  The plane, being flown to San Diego from Yuma, Arizona, was owned and probably being flown by Dr. Sugata Das.  He is one of two people who are known to have died in the crash.

    The plane crashed into a United Parcel Service (UPS) van.  The UPS driver, Steve Krueger, also died.

    There may have been other deaths that have not yet been determined.  Others were injured, including in one of two homes that burned up after the crash, but their identities and details of their injuries have not yet been released.

    An air traffic controller alerted the plane’s pilot that the aircraft was flying too low and urged him to fly the plane to a higher elevation.  However, the pilot did not heed this warning and kept descending until the plane crashed.

    Plane crash kills 2, burns homes
    in California neighborhood
        Small plane crashes
    into California
    neighborhood, killing 2

    Oct. 11, 2021
    Stock Market

           

           
    25-second slideshow

    Today is Columbus Day, a U.S. federal holiday.  It also is Indigenous Peoples’ Day.  Some people observe one, while some observe the other.  It is good to have information about both.

    What is Indigenous Peoples’ Day?
    Does it replace Columbus Day?
    Everything you need to know

    Oct. 10, 2021

    This weekend, Southwest Airlines has had a huge amount of flight cancellations and delays.  Massive numbers of customers have been extremely inconvenienced by this.

    According to reports by Flight Aware on Saturday, 808 flights were canceled and 1,187 flights were delayed.  So far today (Sunday), 1,018 flights have been canceled and 597 flights have been delayed.

    Exact reasons for this are not certain.  Southwest has blamed this on disruptive weather and on unexpected air traffic control issues.  Others have suggested that pilots and crewmembers have been going on strike and/or not showing up for work due, to the airline’s recent mandate for its employees to take coronavirus vaccines.

    However, the Southwest Airlines Pilots Association (SWAPA) has said that “our pilots are not participating in any official or unofficial job actions.”  In any case, it appears to be a problem that is going to continue and perhaps get worse.

    Southwest Airlines cancels more than
    1,000 flights due to 'disruptive weather'
        Southwest cancels more than a thousand
    flights, cites air-traffic control issues

    Oct. 9, 2021

    At Olive Tree Ministries today, Jan Markell spent the hour with Leo Hohmann.  One expert says the vaccine mandate and passports spell the end of human liberty in the West.

    This is part of the agenda of the World Economic Forum and their great Reset plans to change the world as we know it.  Jan and Leo talked about how this lines up with what the Bible prophecies.

             

             

    30-second slideshow

    Today’s program, lasting 56 minutes, can be heard here:

    The Set Up for the Reset — Audio | Video
    Oct. 8, 2021
    Stock Market

    Yesterday, the two main U.S. Senate leaders, Chuck Schumer and Mitch McConnell, agreed to take a vote on a short-term debt ceiling increase for the federal government.  Last night, the vote was taken.

    Before that vote could be taken, though, there first had to be at least a 60-vote threshold among senators to invoke cloture and end debate on the bill.  With all 50 Democrats and 11 Republicans voting for cloture, the vote to raise the federal government’s borrowing limit was able to be taken.

    The vote, raising the debt ceiling by about $480 billion, passed by a margin of 2 votes: 50 to 48.  There was no “yes” vote by any Republican.  Many Republicans, including Senator Graham (R-SC) and former President Trump, are extremely disappointed, feeling that the 11 Republicans voting to invoke cloture needlessly caved to the Democrats.

    The House of Representatives, with a Democratic majority, is expected to pass this legislation sometime next week.  The current national debt is about $28.4 trillion and would be permitted to rise to at least $28.8 trillion.

    Once President Biden signs the bill, it will allow the U.S. to avoid defaulting on its massive debt until December 3.  However, as that date approaches, there is little doubt that major arguments, problems and difficulties involved in passing a more long-term debt limit will arise again.

    Short-Term Increase in U.S.
    Debt Ceiling Passes Senate
        Senate approves temporary debt
    ceiling hike as Trump rips ‘terrible deal’

    Oct. 7, 2021
    Stock Market

    This morning, U.S. Senate majority leader Schumer (D-NY) and minority leader McConnell (R-KY) reached an agreement to vote on a short-term debt ceiling increase.  A vote in the Senate to pass the bill temporarily would avoid the threat of a default on the national debt.  If the bill is not passed by October 18, then a default will take place.

    Passing this will allow the federal statutory debt limit to be raised by $480 billion through December 3.  That is when the governmental funding is set to lapse if Congress does not approve new spending legislation.  Democrats hope that almost two additional months will give them time to focus on finalizing and enacting most of President Biden’s domestic agenda.

    Chuck Schumer accepts
    short-term deal on debt ceiling
        Schumer Sets Vote on Extending
    U.S. Debt Limit Into December

    Oct. 6, 2021
    Stock Market

           

           

           

           
    50-second slideshow

    On Oct. 3, early estimates of the Orange County coastal oil spill last weekend were at least 126,000 gallons.  Estimates now have risen to at least 144,000 gallons of spilled heavy crude oil.

    The cause of the spill of oil appears to be the snagging and dragging of an underwater pipeline by a cargo ship’s anchor.  It is unknown yet which ship might be responsible for this.

    This evidently caused the oil pipeline to rupture and leak oil into the ocean.  The rupture occurred about 5 miles offshore at a depth of about 98 feet or 30 meters.

    Oil has come ashore on miles of beaches from Huntington Beach to Corona del Mar.  Many workers in white hazmat suits have been removing oil that was deposited along the shoreline.  Most of the stretch of beaches could remain closed to the public, as well as to commercial and recreational fishing, for weeks or longer.

    California oil spill: Evidence
    suggests anchor pulled
    pipeline ‘like a bow string’
        Oil spill in California: Workers
    took 3 hours to shut off pipeline
    after alarm sounded, report
    Fishermen and foodways begin
    to feel the squeeze of
    Orange County's oil spill

    Oct. 5, 2021
    Stock Market

    Phone numbers in the U.S. are 10 digits in length.  They include the area code (3 digits), the prefix (3 digits), and the remainder of the number (4 digits).  Typically, for phone numbers within one’s area code, it has been necessary only to dial or press the last 7 digits of the phone number.  It never has been a requirement to dial the initial 3-digit area code.

    Now, for people with 82 specific area codes, this process is changing.  Many people with these area codes do not realize that since April 24, 2021, they also can include the area code when dialing other people with their same area code, and the calls will go through.

    However, as of October 24, 2021, for people with those 82 area codes, it will be necessary to dial or press all 10 digits when calling someone within their own area code.  The call will not go through if only the last 7 digits are dialed.  It will not be necessary to include a “1” before the 10-digit number unless a person is calling someone in another area code, which always has been the case.

    The Federal Communications Commision (FCC) has released a report explaining all of this, along with a list of the 82 area codes being affected.  This number of area codes could increase over time.  A region with a specific “area code” also is known as a “numbering plan area” or NPA.

    Ten-Digit
    Dialing
        NPAs Required to
    Transition to 10-Digit Dialing

    Area codes requiring 10-digit dialing as of October 24, 2021
    Oct. 4, 2021
    Stock Market

    I listened quite a bit to American Family Radio (https://afr.net) this weekend, as I often do.  One program that I often find interesting is “I Don’t Have Enough Faith to Be an Atheist” with Dr. Frank Turek.  Sunday’s program was a repeat of one of his programs from last week.

    First he talked about how much he likes The Babylon Bee.  It is a site that cleverly and humorously talks about Christian news, political information and things that happen in everyday life.

    Frank addressed instances of “faith” in the Bible to help describe what faith means.  These included many actions performed by Jesus and eyewitness testimonies verifying them.  For example, Jesus had many interactions with people during the forty days following His resurrection from death, showing that indeed He had been raised to life again.

    Frank also talked about the relationship between faith and reason and also the difference between knowledge and certainty.  He addressed the question, “Do atheists just lack a belief in God, or do they have faith as well?”  Frank believes that everyone has “faith,” depending on how that word is defined.

    The podcast of this program can be heard below.  It is a little over 48 minutes in length.

    What is Faith? And Why Everyone Has It!” from October 1:

    Oct. 3, 2021

    Platform Elly oil rigA major oil spill occurred off the southern California coast this weekend.  The leakage has been reported to be about 3,000 barrels, or 126,000 gallons, of crude oil coming from Platform Elly.

    The oil slick is about 13 miles long.  Oil is coming on shore at some Orange County beaches.  People are being warned not to get into the water.  Also, dead birds and fish are washing up on the shore.

    The annual Pacific Airshow has been going on for a couple of days.  However the airshow has been canceled for today.

    Huntington Beach Oil Spill Cancels Pacific
    Airshow, Dead Birds and Fish Wash Ashore

    Sometimes my friend JoAnne and I take her three dogs to the dog beach portion of Huntington Beach.  I guess we won’t be going there anytime soon. 

    Below are a few photos that I took the last time we went there.  A couple of the photos show the oil Platform Elly a few miles out in the ocean.  The last photo shows the Huntington Beach pier.

           
    13-second slideshow

    Oct. 2, 2021

    I last organized my vitamins and supplements into individual compartments on Apr. 17.  Each day I take the following: a daily multiple; vitamins A, B complex, C, D3 and E; calcium, magnesium, manganese, zinc, fish oil, saw palmetto, glucosamine/chondroitin, glucosamine sulfate, iron, turmeric curcumin, probiotic acidophilus, olive leaf extract, oil of oregano, fish peptides, hyaluronic acid and biotin.

       
    8-second slideshow

    This supply will last for 24 weeks (168 days, which also happens to be the same number of hours in a week).  Keeping them in the refrigerator enables them to keep their potency.


    Oct. 1, 2021
    Stock Market

    Every Oct. 1, often referred to as “Shocktober 1st” in southern California, I’m always reminded of the 5.9 Whittier Narrows earthquake in 1987.  It happened at 7:42 a.m., just as I was finishing breakfast before going to work.

    My house in Irvine was about 40 miles from the epicenter, and it rocked for several seconds but did no damage to my property.  The quake was felt throughout southern California and southern Nevada.

    I was watching the morning news out of Los Angeles.  A few minutes after the main shock, there was a small aftershock, which I did not feel.

    I remember watching two of the news guys, Kent Shocknek and Christopher Nance.  They got freaked out due to the shaking and the swaying lights, caused by the aftershock, and jumped under their desk.  You can watch a short David Letterman video where he talked about it and then showed a video of what happened.

    I also felt a 5.3 aftershock three days later.  Then life went on as usual.  Here is a video, under 5 minutes, showing damage from the initial quake on Oct. 1 and from the aftershock on Oct. 4: SoCal Whittier Narrows Earthquakes (1987).

    Here is a page with a great deal of information about earthquakes, what to do to prepare for them, and what to do when they occur:

    Be Prepared: Household Earthquake Safety Tips
    and Helpful Home Modifications to Consider

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