oldiesman

WOW sorry your insurance plan didn't cover it. Did some checking and medicare advantage covers it but depending on what medicare advantage plan you've got, there likely are co-insurance and deductibles to pay. Medigap usually covers everything Medicare doesn't, but in NY that costs about an extra $350 a month with AARP. What I do is wait until I've got a procedure or two, and office visits; then try to schedule as much as I can in one month, then use Medigap during that one month of procedures and Drs visits. Doing in that way it's well worth the extra expense for me....

Coming to NY soon...

Thx George. Am surprised they didn't offer to put you to sleep during it? I think it is available... similar to a colonoscopy or something?

Sorry to hear this news George ... will pray for a complete recovery. Am curious how did you find out about it?

Yes, thank you...

Thank Raf. Also if you would, please change the name of this thread to "Mary Veneration" as you suggested earlier....and if you feel like starting a thread debunking "Mary Veneration" please do so and I will read your side of the story. Thx...

I'm not a regular fish eater but would like to begin. Someone told me about anchovies, so I did a search in iASK and this is what I received back. All comments welcome, thx. How to start eating anchovies? To incorporate anchovies into your diet for health benefits, the best way to start is by choosing high-quality, oil-packed anchovies and introducing them gradually into dishes where their flavor can blend, such as sauces, dressings, or as a topping, rather than consuming them plain initially. This approach allows you to acclimate to their unique taste while still reaping their nutritional advantages [1] [2] [3]. According to www.iAsk.Ai - Ask AI: Anchovies are small, nutrient-dense fish that offer a wealth of health benefits, including being rich in omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and various vitamins and minerals [1] [2]. They are a staple in the Mediterranean diet and are praised by chefs for their umami-boosting properties [1] [3] [4]. Understanding Anchovy Varieties and Flavor The taste of anchovies can vary significantly depending on their processing method [1]. Cured anchovies, often packed in oil or salt, tend to have a strong, salty, and pungent flavor [1] [2]. Fresh anchovies or those pickled in vinegar are generally milder [1]. For beginners, starting with oil-packed anchovies is often recommended as they are ready-to-eat and can be more palatable than salt-packed varieties, which require rinsing and soaking [2] [3]. High-quality anchovies are described as tender, meaty, with a silky texture and clean brininess, contrasting with "shoddy products" that can be overly salty [3]. Brands like Agostina Recca, Cento, Don Bocarte, Ortiz, Nettuno, and Scalia are often recommended for their quality [5]. Nutritional Benefits to Expect Anchovies are a nutritional powerhouse. A 2-ounce (45-gram) serving canned in oil provides 95 calories, 13 grams of protein, 4 grams of fat, and 0 grams of carbohydrates [1]. They are an excellent source of: Omega-3 Fatty Acids (EPA and DHA): A 2-ounce serving can provide 924 mg of combined EPA and DHA, which is more than the same amount of salmon [1]. These fatty acids are crucial for heart health, helping to improve blood pressure, cholesterol, and reduce the risk of heart disease [1] [2] [6]. They also play a vital role in brain health, supporting cell formation and function, and may reduce the risk of cognitive decline [1] [2]. Protein: With 13-20.4 grams per serving, anchovies contribute to muscle repair, immune function, and can aid in weight management by promoting satiety [1] [2] [6]. Vitamins: They are rich in Vitamin B3 (niacin), essential for converting food into energy, and Vitamin B12, important for blood cell health and nerve function [1] [2] [6]. They also contain Vitamin D [3]. Minerals: Anchovies provide significant amounts of selenium, which supports heart, thyroid, immune, and bone health, and iron, necessary for oxygen transport [1] [2] [6]. They also contain calcium for strong bones, potassium, and zinc [1] [2]. Low Mercury Content: Due to their position lower on the food chain, anchovies have a lower mercury content compared to larger fish, making them a safer choice for frequent consumption [3] [6]. Diabetic-Friendly: Their omega-3s can help reduce insulin resistance, and their zero carbohydrate content means they don't cause an insulin release, making them a good option for diabetics [2]. Best Ways to Incorporate Anchovies To ease into eating anchovies, consider these methods: Melted into Sauces: This is a popular method as the anchovies dissolve, adding a deep umami flavor without an overpowering "fishy" taste [4] [6]. They are excellent in tomato sauces, pasta puttanesca, or even in a simple olive oil and garlic base for vegetables [3] [4] [6]. Dressings and Dips: Anchovies are a key ingredient in classic Caesar salad dressing, where they provide a savory tang [3] [4] [6]. They can also be blended into tapenades, green goddess dressing, or bagna cauda, a warm Italian dip [4] [6]. Flavor Booster for Meats and Vegetables: Minced anchovies can be added to marinades for lamb, beef, or chicken, enhancing their savory notes [3] [6]. They can also be sautéed with vegetables like cauliflower or broccoli rabe [3] [6]. Toppings (Gradual Introduction): While some enjoy anchovies straight from the tin on toast or pizza, a milder introduction might be to use them sparingly as a topping on dishes where other strong flavors are present [3] [6]. Anchovy Butter: Mashing anchovy fillets into softened butter creates a flavorful condiment for bread, grilled meats, or roasted vegetables [3] [6]. Important Considerations Sodium Content: Most processed anchovies are high in sodium. A 2-ounce serving can provide 72% of the Daily Value [1]. Rinsing salt-packed anchovies before use can help reduce sodium [1] [2]. Individuals with high blood pressure or other related health conditions should monitor their intake [1] [2]. Parasitic Infection: Consuming raw anchovies increases the risk of parasitic infection (anisakiasis). It is recommended to consume fully cooked anchovies if possible [1]. Domoic Acid Contamination: Anchovies may be contaminated with domoic acid, which can lead to amnesic shellfish poisoning (ASP) [1]. By starting with small amounts in cooked dishes and gradually exploring different preparations, you can successfully integrate anchovies into your diet and enjoy their significant health benefits [3] [4] [6]. Authoritative Sources Anchovy Nutrition: Benefits, Downsides, and How to Eat Them. [Healthline]↩ The Nutritional Benefits of Anchovies. [Patagonia Provisions]↩ Anchovies Are Good for You. [Men's Health]↩ The Health Benefits of Anchovies and How to Cook With Them. [HuffPost]↩ Benefits of Anchovies: Nutritious and Delicious. [Gustiamo]↩ Anchovy Fillets: A Gourmet Staple with Endless Possibilities. [Chenab Gourmet]↩ Answer Provided by iAsk.ai – Ask AI.

This was in today's church bulletin and thought it would be appropriate to discuss inside this thread: Seven Sorrows of the Blessed Virgin Mary The seven sorrows of the Blessed Virgin Mary, also known as Our Lady of Sorrows or Mater Dolorosa, are significant events in Mary's life that caused her profound grief and are a popular devotion in the Catholic Church. These sorrows are frequently depicted in art and are distinct from the five Sorrowful Mysteries of the Rosary [1] [2]. According to www.iAsk.Ai - Ask AI: The traditional seven sorrows are: The Prophecy of Simeon: When Mary and Joseph presented the infant Jesus at the Temple, Simeon prophesied to Mary, "And you yourself a sword will pierce" (Luke 2:35), indicating the future suffering she would endure because of her son [3] [4] [5]. This prophecy foreshadowed the immense pain Mary would experience throughout Jesus' life and passion [6]. The Flight into Egypt: Warned by an angel in a dream that King Herod intended to kill Jesus, Joseph took Mary and the child and fled to Egypt to escape the persecution (Matthew 2:13-14) [3] [4] [5]. This forced journey into a foreign land brought hardship and fear to the Holy Family [6]. The Loss of the Child Jesus in the Temple: When Jesus was twelve years old, Mary and Joseph lost him for three days during their return journey from Jerusalem after the Passover feast. They found him in the Temple, listening to and questioning the teachers (Luke 2:43-50) [3] [4] [5]. This period of anxious searching caused Mary great distress [6]. Mary Meets Jesus on the Way to Calvary: As Jesus carried his cross to his crucifixion, Mary met him on the Via Dolorosa. This encounter, though not explicitly detailed in the Gospels, is a traditional Fourth Station of the Cross, depicting her immense sorrow at seeing her son's suffering and humiliation [3] [4] [5] [7]. The Crucifixion of Jesus: Mary stood at the foot of the cross as Jesus was crucified (John 19:25-27) [3] [4] [5]. Witnessing her son's agonizing death was an unspeakable sorrow, fulfilling Simeon's prophecy [6]. Jesus' Body is Taken Down from the Cross: After Jesus' death, his body was taken down from the cross and placed in Mary's arms, a scene often depicted in art as the Pietà (Mark 15:42-46) [3] [4] [5]. This moment represented profound grief as she held her lifeless son [6]. The Burial of Jesus: Mary witnessed the burial of Jesus in the tomb (John 19:38-42) [3] [4] [5]. This final act of laying her son to rest brought immense sorrow and a sense of finality, though her faith in God's plan remained [6]. Devotion to Our Lady of Sorrows has a long history, particularly gaining prominence around the 11th century in Western Christianity [2]. The Servite Order, founded in 1233, significantly contributed to the spread of this devotion, developing practices such as the Rosary of the Seven Sorrows and the Black Scapular of the Seven Dolours of Mary [2] [8]. The feast of Our Lady of Sorrows is celebrated liturgically every September 15th [1] [4]. Authoritative Sources Our Lady of Sorrows. [Wikipedia]↩ Memorial of Our Lady of Sorrows. [Vatican News]↩ The Seven Sorrows of Mary. [Catholic Relief Services]↩ The Seven Sorrows of Mary. [Franciscan Media]↩ What are the 7 Sorrows of Mary? [Aleteia]↩ Seven Sorrows of our Blessed Mother. [Our Lady of the Rosary Library]↩ The Seven Sorrows for Today. [Boston College Church in the 21st Century Center]↩ Our Lady's Seven Sorrows, Seven Promises, and Fatima's Connection. [National Catholic Register]↩ Answer Provided by iAsk.ai – Ask AI.

Thank you WordWolf. Please explain what the error in doctrine is. If you like, please post what iAsk says what Mary veneration actually is, so we may proceed with the same frame of reference. Thx.

I didn't believe in striking the guy's name since it was his idea in the first place, but whatever Raf wants to do with this thread is fine by me.

Raf please do what you feel is best. My sole reason for this post was to discuss Mary the Mother of Jesus and what Kirk said about Christians not venerating her enough. If he was right then we, whoever wants to, may do good to give it some appreciable thought...thx

Oops I guess the links are working...

The following information came to me in an email and thought some of us may want to think about and discuss it. I can tell you from personal experience in TWI that I didn't think as highly of Mary the mother of Jesus as I should have. Maybe you feel the same way I do, but now I regret that. The links are not clickable here but let me know if you want me to post them. Thank you. Charlie Kirk and the Journey Home--Both Christine Niles of Stella Maris Media and Raymond Arroyo of Fox News (38:01) and EWTN are reporting that, in the last few months of his life, Charlie Kirk and his wife had been attending Mass at Saint Bernadette Parish in Scottsdale, Arizona. Kirk, the Founder and CEO of Turning Point USA, was raised Presbyterian, and had long identified as an Evangelical. In July, he surprised many of his followers when he said the solution to toxic feminism was the Blessed Virgin Mary. Kirk said that "I think we as Protestants and Evangelicals under-venerate Mary. She was very important. She was a vessel for our Lord and Savior....We don't talk about Mary enough. We don't venerate her enough. Mary was clearly important to early Christians." The cruel, savage and premeditated murder of Charlie Kirk may well have been demonic in origin. Let us hope and pray that Charlie Kirk attained the eternal destiny which he was seeking, and let us pray for his wife and children, who have suffered a grievous and inconsolable loss.

Good point. The thought keeps coming to me that if TWI ever were big, really big; no doubt it would encourage all members to pursue government action. Perhaps not directly, but individually. After all, what zealous religion who thinks it has the true word wouldn't?

WordWolf, I asked my AI what source it was and got the below answers... and asking where it gets all its sources sounds like a great idea. Perhaps we should start a thread only on AI and everything about it? We may ask it anything... what source of artificial intelligence are you? This is AI on Google Search, and it is powered by the Gemini family of models . It uses natural language processing (NLP) and machine learning (ML). The AI understands and generates human-like conversations.

Hi Revvel, After being exposed to Preterism and believing a good amount of it, I'm now uncertain about "the Rapture" a.k.a. "Gathering Together" as taught by TWI. It's not the actual event but more of the "mind picture" we all know and "timeline" that I question now. Actually I don't fully believe the preterist version either but it's got me wondering. In any case, your research is worth taking a look and thank you!

It would seem so on the surface, but we must remember as freedom loving Americans that any form of total government may start inoffensive and exciting at first but turns out to be a tyranny later. Remember that old saying from Lord Acton: "power tends to corrupt; absolute power corrupts absolutely."

Here's another:

Sun Gym Gang -- I was educated on bodybuilders' regular use of steroids to compete -- didn't think that it was tolerated and routinely allowed even though its banned. One of those rules that nobody pays attention to I guess -- but they really should legalize it since they're not enforcing the ban... IMO.

I very much enjoyed Monte's account of her experiences in Savannah - America's Most Haunted City. She said that roads are paved over old cemeteries and ancient burial grounds -- not surprising to me that the city has spiritual problems?

Among the best of Lady Jazz ...

Correction... that was the first of Fats Domino's.... but here's one that might be the first:

I think this is the first pressing of this great hit: