Silencio's World

2011-02-04T17:40:00.001-07:00

Visit the Official Atlas Shrugged Movie Web Site!

01012011

2011-01-02T14:05:00.002-07:00

"Jack"

Complete as many rounds as possible in 20 minutes of:
115 pound Push press, 10 reps
10 KB Swings, 1.5 pood
10 Box jumps, 24 inch box

Happy New Year!!!

2010-12-31T14:43:00.005-07:00

It is about 10 minutes from New Years here in Iraq. So let me be the first to wish you all a Happy New Year.
Today we did "Murph" following the main page and I got a new PR of 48:42. I shaved 16 minutes off the last time I did this WOD back in March of this year
Again, I hope you all have a very Happy New Year!!!

"Murph"

For time:
1 mile Run
100 Pull-ups
200 Push-ups
300 Squats
1 mile Run

http://www.navy.mil/moh/mpmurphy/soa.html
Navy SEAL (Sea, Air, Land) Lt. Michael P. Murphy, 29, from Patchogue, NY. Murphy was killed by enemy forces during a reconnaissance mission, Operation Redwing, June 28, 2005. Murphy lead a four-man team tasked with finding a key Taliban leader in the mountainous terrain near Asadabad, Afghanistan, when they came under fire from a much larger enemy force with superior tactical position. Mortally wounded while exposing himself to enemy fire, Murphy knowingly left his position of cover to get a clear signal in order to communicate with his headquarters. While being shot at repeatedly, Murphy calmly provided his unit’s location and requested immediate support for his element. He returned to his cover position to continue the fight until finally succumbing to his wounds. U.S. Navy photo (RELEASED)

30DEC2010

2010-12-31T12:02:00.002-07:00

I think doing these two WOD's on the same day was a lot harder than we thought it would be. I was smoked, but that is usually how I feel at the end of every Crossfit workout.

Nate"

Complete as many rounds in twenty minutes as you can of:
2 Muscle-ups (Scaled with 10 dips, Where are your rings Zane?)
4 Handstand Push-ups
8 2-Pood Kettlebell swings
Post rounds completed to comments.

and since we took yesterday off we did this WOD too.

Seven rounds for time of:
185 pound Front squat, 3 reps
7 L-pull-ups
Post time to comments.

Good WODs today TAC-E We are the BEST!!!

Rest Day

2010-12-29T13:50:00.002-07:00

Today was planned as a normal WOD day for us, but by unanimous vote we made it a rest day. Hence, we will be doing two WOD's tomorrow. I hope we made the right decision.

Split Jerks

2010-12-28T19:11:00.003-07:00

Split Jerk 1-1-1-1-1-1-1 reps

This was a progressive WOD. Meaning each rep should have been an increase in weight. I was amazed at the DEMO on the Crossfit main page. The girl did 200# So I had to at least get that. Just say'in!

HERO WOD "Bull"

2010-12-27T08:00:00.004-07:00

"Bull"

U.S. Marine Corps Captain Brandon "Bull" Barrett, 27, of Marion, Indiana, assigned to the 1st Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, based out of Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, was killed on May 5, 2010, while supporting combat operations in Helmand Province, Afghanistan. He is survived by his parents Cindy and Brett Barrett, his sisters Ashley and Taylor Barrett, his brother Brock Barrett, and his grandmother Carmen Johnson.

Two rounds for time of:
200 Double-unders
135 pound Overhead squat, 50 reps
50 Pull-ups
Run 1 mile

Post time to comments

Rest Day #2

2010-12-26T13:50:00.004-07:00

Paul Diamond, Chief Wiggles and Lt. Thomas enjoying the spirit of the season at a Christmas program. All things considered this was a fun Christmas weekend. I had a lot of fun taking stockings around the base and giving them to people we know as well as some complete strangers. It was so fun to see their faces light up as we gave them such a small gift of kindness. A special thanks to all the Utahan's that provided the stockings through Operation Give. You are the BEST!!!
This morning after church, I decided to make some scones with honey butter and a Mountain-man breakfast in my Dutch oven. I shouldn't brag but it turned out pretty darn good. I really enjoy sharing good food with my friends, feeding people is such an amazing way to bring folks closer together. I still think the book "How to Win Friends and Influence People" needs a chapter added to it called "The Art of Dutch oven cooking and making Friends".
I guess I'll have to add that to my list of things I need to do somewhere down the road.
Well the sleep monster is pulling on my eyelids too hard to fight any longer so I will say so long for now.
Have a Great Night.

Rest Day

2010-12-25T12:44:00.001-07:00

Good morning, afternoon or evening! Whatever time of day it is when you read this I hope you are, have had or are having a Wonderful Christmas. It is 5:00p.m. Christmas day here in Iraq and I just woke up from a “long Winter nap” having come back to my room after eating my share and more of the amazing Christmas dinner the Military Dining facility had prepared for us. At around 12:30p.m. I sat down to read some of the many Christmas cards and letters I’ve received from people from every corner of the United States. I didn’t get through too many before I was fast asleep. I am very thankful for so many people wishing me and my family the best during this time of year as we are so far apart, It is humbling to have so many fans and such an amazing “cheer squad”. There really is none finer then the good Ole’ fashioned, red-blooded American Citizen. A heartfelt thanks to you all from a Soldier that can truly say, “I’ve been there, done that”. As I awoke from my nap I just stared at the ceiling of my room, reflecting on where I find myself at this point in my 40th year of life. I thought about my Wonderful wife and eternal companion, Ginger and how much she is the cause of everything good there is in me. I thought about my amazing kids Brayden and Ayjia and how proud they make me as the father. I thought about my awesome family, my mothers, fathers, sisters and brothers that live life to the fullest and are great examples to me. I reflected on all the places I have been as an American Soldier. I have often heard people say, “What is it that makes a man or woman want to become or stay a Soldier?” Believe me, I’ve asked myself that question many times, but as I reflect upon my own answer, I would simply say. “Because I get to witness Miracles.” I could go on for hours, telling story after story of miracles that I have witnessed over these last 17 years. More often than not, I was on the receiving end of many of them, as I am today. Why? You may ask would I consider today a miracle. After all, how can sitting in Iraq on Christmas day, alone, apart from all my family be considered a miracle? Well without the gospel knowledge I have been blessed with I would never consider today a miracle. But because of the things I know to be true I can enjoy this moment and place in time and see how blessed I am, to be where I am here and now. I “Skyped” with my family for over an hour this morning, what a miracle today’s technology is? I was virtually there at the family Christmas party from 7415 miles away. Many people only know the Iraq they get to see on TV. But last night I got to see a miracle in Iraq where Iraqis, Americans, Turks, Ugandans and many other nationalities gathered in a tent the size of a football field to celebrate the birth of Jesus, The Christ. We all sang Christmas hymns, heard the narration of his birth from the book of Luke. Each of us received a small candle as we entered the tent and at the end of the program a few people came through the center isle lighting our candles. We were then instructed if our candle was lit to find others that needed theirs lit. This continued on until everyone held a lit candle, then we sang Joy to the world as we exited the tent row by row. The light of Christ was felt last night in a country that has been in the throws of war for the last 7 years. All who attended, though they may not know it, witnessed a miracle. As I write this Christmas message, I can’t help but reflect on the history and many miracles that have occurred within miles of where I sit. This land was once the center of civilization. Abraham showed miraculous faith not far from here. Jonah and many of the noble and great ones spoken of in the scriptures have been near right where I sit typing. In fact I may never find myself closer to the birthplace of our Savior than I do today. In closing, I bear you my testimony that I know Jesus Christ was born of a virgin, mother, Mary and raised by a loving, earthly father Joseph, obeyed Our Heavenly Father’s will in every instance. Sweat blood for us in Gethsemane, hung bleeding, dying on the cross for us at Calvary. Rose from the tomb three days later to complete his earthly mission and become our Miracle of Miracles, becoming the only one that can act as our advocate to the Father. Every time I take a moment to study or ponder his life and ministry my personal testimony of his Atonement is strengthened. I know he can change each of our lives for the better is we will seek him and let his spirit be a part of our daily lives. This is my testimony I share with you on this Miraculous Christmas day, in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

Merry Christmas.

Friday 101224

2010-12-24T16:19:00.005-07:00

"DT"

Five rounds for time of:
155 pound Deadlift, 12 reps
155 pound Hang power clean, 9 reps
155 pound Push jerk, 6 reps

This WOD was a beast and Zane and I had to scale down to 135#. He is pictured here in his 1st round, doing 155# before he decided to scale down to 135# for the next 4 rounds.
Our rest day tomorrow is going to be a welcomed day.
Merry Christmas Eve!

23 December 2010

2010-12-23T12:41:00.002-07:00

Tabata "Bottom to Bottom" Squat
Run 1 mile

Clock starts for run on rising from last squat.

The Tabata Bottom to Bottom Squat is a Tabata Squat but each rep begins at the bottom and ends at the bottom. The turn around at the top is immediate - no pause. The ten-second rest for each interval is also held at the bottom of the squat as opposed to the top. Interestingly, this squat, in contrast to the "normal" Tabata squat, motivates full hip extension. Also, the ten second rests don't seem as short with this protocol!

"Randy"

2010-12-22T07:48:00.003-07:00

It has been said, or at least I have heard that if you do something for 30 days straight you can turn it into a habit. Over the next 30 days I will post my Crossfit Work Out of the Day"(WOD) results.
Feel free to hold me accountable on this if you feel the urge.
Today's WOD was named after Randy Simmons, 51, a 27 year LAPD veteran and SWAT team member who was killed February 6 in the line of duty. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Officer Simmons' wife and two children.
Here is the WOD:
75 pound Power snatch, 75 reps for time.
Post time to comments.

My Practical Man Essay for my English class.

2009-10-15T11:08:00.004-06:00

The Practical Man
by Paul Diamond

What is the proper role of government? What does it mean to have a government for the people and of the people? What annoys me is that these two simple questions are so important and yet many Americans can’t even give an intelligent, non-partisan answer if they were asked. I know someone who wants to fix this issue. I have known him my entire life and I have a great amount of love and respect for this very practical man. His name is Steven C. Diamond and he is my older brother. He has seen enough wrongdoing in our country and has decided it is time to make a stand. He has decided to start at the city level of government by campaigning for a seat on the Orem City Council. In this paper I will share with you some of the issues Steve wants to fix that are ailing our city. I will also cover some of his practical, common sense answers for these issues. I am very proud of my brother and his willingness to serve our country. I am a Soldier in the United States Army and as such, I feel proud to stand with Americans like Steve that are truly willing to stand up and protect our Constitution from enemies both foreign and domestic.
The Reason for Running
My brother Steve is running for city council as a practical man with practical solutions. The current council is taking the city in a direction completely opposite of what Orem is known for, “Family City USA”, Steve wants this to become the official motto of the city. Orem has been slowly losing its flavor as the sweetest city to raise a family and Steve wants that to change. As an Orem native and resident for over 30 years Steve has a passion about the city he calls home. Steve’s passion for success is what drives him in life. He is the only candidate running for Orem city council that has expressed his intentions to the public through his website, www.stevencdiamond.com. When you read his plans on his site you can tell he has a sincere concern for the success and future of the city. He has real ideas that can solve issues with practical solutions, not just the “pie in the sky” type answers we hear from so many of today’s politicians.
Failing Businesses
Steve’s first focus as a member of the Orem City Council will be on business. He understands and knows what it takes to successfully operate a business. He started his first business at age 14 landscaping and maintaining residential and commercial properties. His years of business experience have helped him appreciate the value created in a community by active business community involvement. If Orem continues to lose businesses at the rate it has over the last ten years the city stands to lose more tax base then it can afford, which will result in job loss among citizens and city employees. Steve intends to work with the business sector and create a positive win/win environment where the businesses know they are appreciated for the value they bring to the city. The current city council has just stood by and watched very strong businesses leave the city limits for benefits offered by neighboring cities just a few miles away. The council seems to feel that they have no cause and effect on what the businesses choose to do. But having been in business for so long, Steve knows exactly what drives the business owners and currently they are not finding what they want in Orem. So the Practical Man will change that.
Steve brought an issue to light last year that has made members of the council very uneasy in their plans for reelection. A multimillion-dollar project in Midtown Orem has come to a halt due to lack of investment capital. This project was started without having a bond placed on it. The bond would have ensured the completion if the investors backed out allowing the contractor to finish the project and still be paid. When the investors left the contractor followed suit and now the Midtown project is only “Midway complete”. How did this happen? The truth is someone was scratching the back of someone else and now they have decided they don’t want to scratch anymore. So now what can fix it? In comes Steve Diamond the Practical Man with a practical answer. Orem City wants to build a 4 million dollar Music and Arts Center near the city center, which happens to be one block north of the Midtown project. Instead of spending the 4 million on a new building, why not contact the bank holding the loan on the Midtown project and make them an offer? I am sure they would be delighted to move that property for pennies on the dollar. The Practical Man Strikes again!
Focus on the Family
Steve has some great ideas for solving the issues of gangs, domestic disputes and drug usage that seem to be creeping into all cities across America. Orem is no exception. The following idea from his website demonstrates his practical manner of thinking, on a complex issue. “I will make places in Orem where the whole family can enjoy recreation activities together. We could use several of Orem’s empty buildings to promote dances, shows and other forms of recreation. For example, there are currently no major dance halls in all of Utah County. The old Home Base building is currently an empty waste of space. We would not need funds from the city. There are plenty of people who would lease it if the city would give approval. Why not use it as a community culture center? We could invite all of Utah Valley to participate. All ages would be welcome and it would build a sense of community and become a gathering place. It would bring families together by offering them a great time with dancing and floorshows. It could bring back the great band era of the past. It would be a great time for all age groups. A year-round dance hall would be a venue filled with people to utilize University Parkway’s many restaurants and shops—all with minimal impact on the city’s infrastructure because it is all ready (with a few minor improvements).” (Diamond 2009)

Conclusion
I know some readers may feel I have a bias toward my brother and I would agree, he has earned it. He is a practical man with practical answers and isn’t that what we need? When asked if Orem has a drug problem, Steve responded saying [“Candy cigarettes were the things when I was a kid. But proper education is key to helping youth.”] He continued by quoting a principle taught by Joseph Smith, "Teach correct principles and let them govern themselves." Isn’t our government supposed to provide for the common welfare and defense? The role of the government was designed to end there, where it could focus on those two key dimensions of our Republic without intruding into our lives, our liberties and our pursuit of happiness. In this short paper I have briefly discussed the plans of a practical man. It would be a good use of your time to visit Steve’s website and learn more in detail how a practical man comes up with common sense answers. If you live in the city of Orem, Utah and care about your neighborhood, your community and most important your own family, take the time to get to know the Steve Diamond I do. Once you have come to know Steve I am sure you will want to do the only practical thing and that would be to vote for Steven C. Diamond on November 3, 2009. Make your vote count.

References

(2009). Steven C Diamond. Retrieved from http://stevencdiamond.com/

(2009). Daily Herald. Retrieved from http://www.heraldextra.com/news/local/central/orem/article_ac660111-b4e2-5b6c-9518-cfb98fb19a29.html

July 2009

2009-10-09T19:37:00.006-06:00

We went to Texas this summer for a military school I needed to attend. This photo is us on the shore of the Concho River in San Angelo, Texas.

This is Lieutenant Governor Gary Herbert and me at the Stadium of Fire on the 4th of July in Provo, Utah.
We had a very busy summer and put a lot of miles on our van driving to and from Texas.
It was a lot of fun.

Landscape Pictures from Malekshay

2008-10-02T03:15:00.002-06:00

So many have asked for pictures of Afghanistan so here are a few for you. I will post more as time allows.

2008-09-21T14:44:00.002-06:00

This is my friend and fellow Cook Doc Eberly receiving his HeroBand. He got it on August 30, 2008 and the cool thing about his HeroBand is that it was number 2008.

Today was a great Sunday. SFC Kluse and I had our own Sacrament meeting “High on the mountaintop” here at COP Malekshay (8200 Ft. elevation)
I opened with prayer and then we sang Redeemer of Israel and proceeded with the blessing and taking of the sacrament. For our lesson we went over the items that were emailed to us from Brother Wikle this week and then listened to a talk by John Bytheway entitled “Righteous Warriors” In this fireside Brother Bytheway does a great job in bringing out some key reasons of why the “War chapters” of the book of Alma are so important to our generation. Below are some of the key points that he touched on in his talk. I wanted to share them with you because of how this touched me because of where I currently find myself, here in the middle of a war zone. As I followed Brother Bytheway through these chapters I could relate to Moroni, Helaman, Teancum, Pahoran, and the 2000 Stripling Warriors. Their words describe well the pains and sacrifice that a warrior goes through as he works to defend life and liberty. These men were all men of God and what separated them from their enemy the Lamanites was their willingness to seek, understand and live God’s will at all times and in all things. We can learn so much from these amazing military men. The lessons we can learn through these chapters will help us all in our fight against Satan and the evils of today’s world.
Nephites vs. Lamanites
(See the “War Chapters” in Alma 43-62)
Here is a list that describes why the Nephites were successful in the war against the Lamanites
1.Preparation (Spiritual and Temporal)
2.Remembrance (Reminders of Covenants)
3.Hard Workers (Building fortifications)
4.Accepted responsibility for failures and gave gratitude to God for successes
5.Discernment (being aware of poisons i.e. Internet, movies, music, TV etc.)
6.Respect for life on both sides (for themselves as well as the lives of the Lamanites)
The Lamanites on the other hand are described as follows:
1.Distracted
2.Decoyed
3.Lured
4.Snared
5.Ambitious for power
6.Blood Thirsty (their leaders were)
7.They gave away their agency
8.Compromised one thing to get another and ended up getting nothing.

All of the “War Chapters” verify the promise of the Book of Mormon: “keep the commandments and ye will prosper in the land”. I want to close with an invitation that all of us may live each day “As the Army of Helaman” for we too “have been taught in our youth” to quote the primary song. I love the gospel of Jesus Christ and know that we are blessed daily by our Father in Heaven when we obey his commandments and live by our covenants. Our Savior lives and taught us the only way back to our Father. May we all be strong in following his perfect example, is my prayer in his sacred name, Jesus Christ, Amen.

Adopting a Soldier

2008-09-20T14:20:00.003-06:00

I would love to thank all of you that have made an effort to make my life a little nicer out here in Afghanistan. You are the best. I can't describe with words what just a little care package from the states can mean to us out here, it can make our month to just get one little package with a letter that says someone back home cares. Several of you have asked how you might be able to help out and get more involved with either your ward or even just as a family. I found this website that has been one of the best sites for getting stuff to soldiers http://www.adoptaussoldier.org/
I think it would be awesome to have you all join the site and adopt a soldier or two. It will make you feel like you are doing your part to fight this war on terrorism and will give you the satifaction that can only come when we are in the service of our fellow man. I have heard some awesome stories of Soldiers becoming life-long friends with some of the people that adopted them and not to mention this is a great opportunity to share the Book of Mormon and the Gospel. Hope you all know how much I love you and may the Lord bless and keep you.

Paul

2008-02-09T23:17:00.001-07:00

test

Ten Steps for Forming a Successful Team

2007-08-22T09:17:00.000-06:00

Teamwork is the ability
To work together
Toward a common vision.
The ability to direct individual
Accomplishments toward
Organizational objectives.
It is the fuel that allows
Common people to obtain
Uncommon results.

Ten Steps for Forming a Successful Team

1. Share Center Point Values
Without shared values peak performance isn’t possible.
2. Put Team First
The team success must be the focus 24/7.
3. Walk the Talk
Successful leaders embrace the Power of Teamwork by tapping into the innate strengths each person brings to the table.
4. Maintain Peak Performance
Peak Performance requires we take time to rest, reflect and recharge our batteries.
5. Communicate Vertically + Horizontally
Every member on the team requires clear and effective communication to accomplish their job.
At this level of performance, there can be no questions or doubt concerning communication.
6. Prepare to Win
Visualize yourself accomplishing the task at hand.
7. Capitalize on Synergy
Synergy happens when qualified people align on a common objective.
8. Clarify Procedures
Each member must know procedures and follow a detailed script.
Every situation requires a proper response.
9. Foster Positive Attitudes
A can-do attitude makes the impossible, possible.
10. Strive for Perfection
When each member accepts full responsibility and strives for excellence trust and performance increase exponentially and the team is ready to take off.
IS YOUR TEAM READY TO TAKE OFF?
ARE YOU?

Taking Action

2007-07-31T15:58:00.000-06:00

I got a notice today from NWYC, notifying me that the senators which represent my vote in the Senate both voted YES on a bill that I would have thrown out the window. So this was my nice response.

Senators Hatch and Bennett,

As a 13 year National Guard veteran approaching my second tour to the Middle East. I would like to give you a quick suggestion in reference to your recent (Yes) vote on Pell Grants. Instead of giving away tax dollars to those "that can't afford to go to school" (not true) give them the number for their local Armed Forces recruiting office and let them earn it. Grants of this type don't allow people to create value in exchange for their Human Life Value so your vote is aiding in the creation of a generation of Moochers. There are so many other options out there that could be utilized, other than increasing the amount of money students can get for FREE (FREE MONEY is also not true).

Sincerely,

Silencio Diakos

2007-07-30T17:36:00.000-06:00

Sorry friends,

For some reason none of my posts would show on the web last week. So I finally deleted some of them and it is now working again. Those silly socialist were trying to silence Silencio but little did they know you can't silence a Free-Man. So I am back on-line. Silly socialists!!!

2007-07-26T12:32:00.000-06:00

I'm on my way back to the Middle East in 2008.

Freedom

2007-07-16T10:04:00.000-06:00

The following poem was sent to me by younger sister Julie Winter.
Julie's writing ability and use of words has become an amazing source of expression for both her and any like-minded reader. Her works demonstrate her strong conviction of love for God, Family, and Country. She is the proud mother of her 4 children and the loving wife of her "knight in shining armor" Chris.
Julie creates her writings in her spare time between diaper changes, meals or during the kid's nap time (only on days she doesn't dose off too). She loves being a mother and works nonstop to give her children what every child should have, a loving mother and father that build them up, give them love, and teach true principles.
Below is Julie's July 2007 poem, properly named "Freedom" and timely released in July as we commemorate our Nations Birthday.

Thanks Julie keep them coming! Silencio

Freedom

You talk of freedom of speech and religion
And say it is “MY” right as a United States citizen
And yet you cannot see that freedom has come at a cost
From United States Soldiers whose lives have been lost
They cry from the dust that their sacrifice be not in vain!
And yet you still say our President just seeks power and gain

I am tired of hearing from some of our people and politicians
We “support our troops”- but this war is full of abominations!
They say “if elected we will end this war and bring our troops back home to our soil”
Politicians who first agreed that this war was justified and unavoidable!
Now look at the war as an advantage to winning the presidential race
While as “president” they will end this war that to their name has been such a disgrace

Let us fight for our rights and stand strong as Americans
Whether you call yourself Democrats or Republicans
Let us not argue or point fingers any longer at who is to blame
Creating “Committees”, wasting millions of tax dollars is such a shame
Let us realize the greater battle is raging within our own walls
As we sit back and watch the division amongst our people will ultimately be our great fall

May “In God we trust!” stand as a testimony to this great nation
Without God standing as the head of our country we will be under great condemnation
Men’s hearts our failing them and what was once considered wrong is now customary
Evil men are altering the words of our past so that we will forget our powerful history
Our “Founding Fathers” held a common thread of “liberty and the pursuit of happiness”
Before our nation was established let us not forget that war and bondage was in their midst

To our American Soldiers I give you a standing ovation
With the Flag waiving high and my hand on my heart I give you my salutation
I weep when I think that you are away from the comforts of your home
The loneliness you must feel in the night when you are all alone
I pray that God will keep you safe from harms way
And that he will comfort your families and help them make it through each day

I don’t know when this terrible conflict will come to an end
But I know of your great name and of America I will always defend
You are American Soldiers standing proud and tall
Fighting an enemy who greatest desire is to see us crumble and fall
As our National Anthem proclaims “Tis the Star Spangled Banner; O long may it wave”
As an American I am grateful to be in a “Land of the free and the home of the BRAVE!”

By Julie Winter
American Patriot

Freedom Walk 2007

2007-07-12T11:37:00.000-06:00

My friends,
Below is an email from my close friend Paul Holton. Paul and I both served in Iraq in 2003 and have since become closely connected in a mutual cause. Please take a minute to learn more about our cause and visit http://www.operationgive.org/ One of our main goals is to take ACTION not just talk about the things we would like to do. We have several events planned every year that require the help of willing people. I don't mean to pilfer from the Marines but "We are looking for a few good Men and Women" that are committed to freedom and country and want to do what they can to make the world a better place. Through combining our efforts we can strengthen and unite our communities instead of standing by, watching them be divided by the media or those that have a defeatist mentality. This quote by the Governor of Alabama sums up my point.

Tolerating evil leads only to more evil. And when good people stand by and do nothing while wickedness reigns, their communities will be consumed. Bob Riley
Please join us and become a part of our "Bands of Heroes".

Thanks for all you do,

Silencio

To all who will join us:

We are beginning our planning for this years Freedom Walk on 9/11, to pay tribute to those who lost their lives that dreadful day and to all those that have paid the ultimate sacrifice since then in the War on Terrorism. We will be combining our Freedom Walk with the Healing Fields sponsored by Colonial Flag and Sandy City, which is going to be an impressive sight.

This years event should be outstanding but we will need as much help as possible to make this a memorable event. We would love your help and support and hope that all of you might be able to participate in some way. Please let us know what you would like to do this year to help us create the best ever Freedom Walk on 9/11.

Thanks so much for all you do. we really appreciate your support. Love all of you
Paul Holton
Chief Wiggles
Operation Give
"Doing it the wiggles way"

Paul Holton, known to many as "Chief Wiggles," is the founder of Operation Give and the award winning author of Saving Babylon: The Heart of an Army Interrogator in Iraq. He has appeared as a guest on a wide range of radio, television, and news features, and is a popular speaker as he recounts his experiences in Iraq as an interrogator responsible for 17 Iraqi generals. Paul's book, Saving Babylon, is available at www.savingbabylon.com, on Amazon.com and at better bookstores. Operation Give provides toys, educational and medical supplies and other relief to war-torn nations around the world. Donations can be made at www.operationgive.org. To arrange media interviews and guest appearances, please call Paul Holton at 801-259-6336, or email him at wigglesholton@yahoo.com Write to Paul at: Saving Babylon P.O. Box 520055 Salt Lake City, UT 84152-0055

Live peeps

2007-07-12T10:36:00.000-06:00

This year my kids got a surprise for Easter. Her is my daughter showing off one of her new chicks (Aren't they both cute?)

We bought 20 of these little guys and the poor things were torn a part in one night by the Raccoons around our house. It was devastating for the kids but we have since replaced all the ones that were killed on that horrible night. The Coons must of thought they were at Chuck-a-Rama (that's a Utah thing)

Anyway that is all I have to say about that.

I would like to invite anyone with good comments to post on my blog when you get a chance.

THE University of Utah

2007-07-12T09:57:00.000-06:00

Many people in Utah may not like this picture, But those of true faith know "who's on the Lords side, Who? We know where the REAL University of Utah is.

The Free-man's Guidebook

2007-07-12T09:21:00.000-06:00

The Free-man's Guidebook
By Silencio Diakos

Subject: How to set a meeting with a Producer.

I have often heard Statements such as “he is to busy for me” or “she has rescheduled on me three times” said by those that are stuck in the [consumer-condition].
For a consumer getting a [Producer] to schedule a meeting or to even “give them the time of day” as they might say can often be a very frustrating task- or so it seems.
Prior to my becoming a Free-man I found this a very common feeling. The above statements were ones I’ve used many times myself. It wasn’t until one morning when I took the autobiography of Benjamin Franklin off the shelf it had been sitting on for years and began reading that I realized I could meet with him or any other producer I wanted when and wherever I wanted. I found that my reading skills and imagination could get almost all of the information he could offer me right from the pages of that book, possibly more than if he were sitting across the table from me in person. I learned amazing things from my meetings with Old Ben. He gave me the inspiration to start this Guidebook. He taught me how to weigh out Pros and Cons whenever faced with a decision. To sum it all up my meetings with Benjamin Franklin were “electrifying” pun intended, if you don’t get that you have a lot of reading to do.
Since this is a guidebook, I am sure you are expecting some guidance or great advice on the title subject “How to set a meeting with a Producer”, so here it is.
Prior to using the energy of scheduling an appointment with someone you look to as a Producer here are 4 steps I would take.
Do your best to make sure the meeting has a definite purpose for ALL involved. Meaning the meeting should create value and prosper ALL who attend, not just you.
If the definite purpose can be solved without meeting than don’t meet until it can’t. Meaning all the “due diligence” you could do, has been done.
Study anything and everything you can about the producer before you meet. This can save you their “precious time” and give you leverage with them. Meaning you won’t just be a dead battery they feel they have to recharge and they may even get some charge from you which could lead to future meetings with them more often.
If your purpose in meeting is to get the Producer’s opinion save both of you some time and study the principles the Producer lives by. Meaning Producers know that principles govern so they form their opinions from principles not emotions.

In summary most of the 4 steps I mentioned have to be done by you. If you are not willing to take the action steps then continue to enjoy the frustration of not meeting with the Producers. Don’t worry eventually your desire to meet with them will go away, which will entitle you to file a complaint, adding one more to the ever growing list of things “there ought to be a law against” or if filling a complaint is too much work you. Then just join the crowds of Consumers that whine and moan about producers whenever they get the chance.