http://beehivestandardweekly.com en-us http://beehivestandardweekly.com N/A rgraham@lawyerswest.net Sun, 20 Jul 2008 11:09:35 -0700 20 http://beehivestandardweekly.com/articles/206/1/Wall-e-is-Cute%2C-but-Hardly-a-Blockbuster Wall-e is Cute, but Not CompellingI remember being surprised after seeing The Incredibles in the movie theater. It was a complex comedy with great graphics and non-stop action. I was only amused coming out of the theater after seeing Wall-e.  It was probably worth the outing with the kids, but it won't be a film I will watch over again when it comes out on DVD. rgraham@lawyerswest.net (Charlie Montrose) Tue, 15 Jul 2008 00:00:00 -0700 http://beehivestandardweekly.com/articles/205/1/Chuck-Schumer-Source-of-Indymac-Bank%26%2339%3Bs-Premature-Failure Chuck Schumer Destroys Indymac's Chances for RecoveryBeing a bank in today's challenging economic times is tough, but with friends like Chuck Schumer in the Senate, who needs enemies?Late Friday, July 11th, Indymac Bank failed. The doors were shut and bolted and the Feds sent out press releases about FDIC insurance. Perhaps it would have been inevitable, but the Senator from New York made the bank's failure certain. rgraham@lawyerswest.net (Rob Graham) Mon, 14 Jul 2008 00:00:00 -0700 http://beehivestandardweekly.com/articles/203/1/Pulse-Pen-to-Revolutionize-Your-Notes New Pulse Pen Perfect for NotesA new writing gadget called the Pulse Pen is likely to change the way you take notes. The cigar shaped object allows users to coordinate recorded audio and handwritten notes by using specialized paper. The genius of this product lies in its ability to allow the user to later pull up a digital image of the notes on a computer and point to a place on that image to hear the audio recorded at the time the original note was taken. Users can also use the notepad to hear the audio play back through a speaker built into the pen. rgraham@lawyerswest.net (Emerson Chase) Fri, 04 Jul 2008 00:00:00 -0700 http://beehivestandardweekly.com/articles/201/1/Congratulations-Jamie-Lynn-Spears----Not Babies Having Babies -- Statutory Rape Doesn't Apply in Hollywood Splashed across the headlines this week was the announcement that Nickelodeon Teen Star Jamie Lynn Spears, sister of the infamous Britney Spears, delivered a baby at a Mississippi hospital. To every parent's delight, Jamie Lynn is 17 years old and the new father is her very adult 19 year old boyfriend. In most states, this pregnancy started as statutory rape. Of course, stardom saves Jamie Lynn's boy toy from a few good years in jail.  Her parents must be so proud. rgraham@lawyerswest.net (Rob Graham) Sat, 21 Jun 2008 00:00:00 -0700 http://beehivestandardweekly.com/articles/200/1/Kung-Fu-Panda%3A-Come-as-You-Are Beehive Standard Weekly: 4 Out of 5 StarsWatching the commercials for the new animated feature Kung Fu Panda, the first thing that comes to mind is that a Panda doing Kung Fu seems a little awkward. After only a few minutes of the film from Dreamworks, you get the feeling that this was the intent of the writers. rgraham@lawyerswest.net (Charlie Montrose) Mon, 16 Jun 2008 00:00:00 -0700 http://beehivestandardweekly.com/articles/198/1/Romney-Wins-With-or-Without-VP-Spot By leaving the GOP nomination in a timely fashion, Mitt Romney is poised to win with or without a spot on the McCain ticket. Though Romney is certainly hoping to join the ticket as John McCain's presidential running mate, if he is not chosen, he is clearly the leading candidate going into the next election cycle, whether that is in four or eight years. rgraham@lawyerswest.net (Rob Graham) Thu, 12 Jun 2008 00:00:00 -0700 http://beehivestandardweekly.com/articles/196/1/Texas-Lawyers-Save-Constitution-in-Polygamy-Ruling Previously, the editors of the Beehive Standard Weekly expressed our opinion that the raid on the polygamy compound was clearly an infringement of civil rights upon the members of the FLDS church. The Texas Supreme Court agrees and now the unraveling of this ugly civil rights battle begins.This is not to say that there won't be specific charges eventually brought against individuals who have engaged in improper marriages with underage persons, however, as a whole, the Texas Child Protective Services and its henchmen should be held accountable for their atrocities. rgraham@lawyerswest.net (Beehive Standard Weekly ) Thu, 05 Jun 2008 00:00:00 -0700 http://beehivestandardweekly.com/articles/194/1/Opinion%3A-Unjustified-Opposition-to-New-GI-Bill President George Bush and John McCain's opposition to the proposed upgrades to the "21st Century GI Bill" is unconscionable. The bill upgrades educational benefits that would essentially adjust for inflation and provide GI's the same level of educational opportunity following their service as post-WWII GI's were given. jon.westover@gmail.com (Jonathan H. Westover) Wed, 04 Jun 2008 00:00:00 -0700 http://beehivestandardweekly.com/articles/86/1/Fuel-Economy-More-Important-than-Ever Summers do thake their toll on vehicles. Especially for those living in the desert. It wouldn't surprise any of you if I told you we are in a severe service schedule area. Being that we live in a hot, dry, and dusty climate, means things like oil changes need to be done more often than you would if you lived in Kansas! Coolant and other fluids need to be maintained and serviced more often. reception.lasvegas@yahoo.com (James Leavitt) Wed, 07 May 2008 00:00:00 -0700 http://beehivestandardweekly.com/articles/191/1/Why-The-Polygamy-Raid-Was-Wrong Several of our readers have asked for the Beehive Standard Weekly to speak out on the recent raids on polygamists in Texas. Uniquely, our staff consists of lawyers who also happen to be Mormon, who also happen to be journalists. To that end, perhaps we can't avoid having or expressing an opinion.To that end, we offer the conclusion before the commentary, so no one can misquote us without knowing that they are misquoting us.Conclusion:  Our conclusion is that though there may be specific and individual examples of violations of several laws of the State of Texas relating to underage marriage, the state and federal authorities have also violated the most sacred law of all, the United States Constitution. In the balance, religious prejudice and bigotry has tainted the actions of authorities, the media and the peeping-tom public. It may be one of the ugliest displays of religious intolerance since -- well, since the Mormons were driven out of the United States. With that said, this is not an apology for those who have violated the law or abused children. Those participating in such low crimes should be brought to justice. The FLDS cannot hide behind their faith for attrocities against children. Religion is not an excuse for violating the laws which are clear and unambiguous. Collective persecution, however, is not the way to obtain justice.  In the majority, the people who were subject to the raid were living peaceful lives, though their religious practices are clearly not mainstream. Some may view this act of Texas authorities as America taking a stand against abusive religious doctrines. In many ways, this is a test of the American system.  Either we believe in religious freedom, or we don't.  If we don't, then let's not act like hypocrites and let's rescind the right under the Bill of Rights. We can't continue to hold up litmus tests for public office and persecute those who don't hold mainstream religious beliefs and claim at the same time to have religious freedom.  We either do, or we don't. rgraham@lawyerswest.net (Beehive Standard Weekly ) Fri, 11 Apr 2008 00:00:00 -0700 http://beehivestandardweekly.com/articles/186/1/Book-of-Mormon-Gospel-Doctrine-Lesson-8%3A-2-Nephi-6-10-Part-I Book of Mormon: 2 Nephi 6-10This lesson is centered around the sermon of Jacob, the brother of Nephi, and his comments on the atonement of Christ for the sins of man. Here are some points you may want to consider in giving your lesson:Teacher Hint: Always question why certain words were chosen in the scriptures and the history of the writer to obtain proper intention of the writer.BackgroundJacob has received the priesthood from either Nephi or his father and has been "consecrated." From this we can presume that he has received a call to a particular position or responsibility. (1 Nephi 6:2). We note that Nephi has taken the role of a "king" and is probably busy with administrative matters. Not unlike King Josiah in Jerusalem, Nephi would have had a secular and religious role over his people and has likely passed on to Jacob some of the responsibilities of the church.We see in versus 4, 8, & 9 that Jacob has had the same or nearly the same vision experienced by his brother Nephi and his father Lehi regarding the coming of the Messiah and the destruction of the people of Jerusalem; however, his vision has come much later.  Jacob states that he has been shown that those in Jerusalem have now been slain and carried away captive -- in the past tense. So his vision would have come more recently or at least after Nephi's vision.He mentions an angel who has spoken to him of these matters (v9).Jacob's sermon seems to accent the role of the Messiah in the last days in the fulfilling of the promises to the chosen people. In verse 14, we see that the Messiah will recover Israel a second time by manifesting himself and destroying their enemies. rgraham@lawyerswest.net (Rob Graham) Sat, 23 Feb 2008 00:00:00 -0800 http://beehivestandardweekly.com/articles/184/1/A-New-National-Covenant-of-the-McCain-GOP John McCain is headed for defeat in November. He has won over 40 percent of the Republican party, but will likely face a political rock star in Barack Obama who will not lose a single Democratic vote and might even get some Republican cross-overs. A McCain defeat will be devastating for the GOP and a last embarrassing blow to a once proud coalition of religious, financial and military conservatives.To avert this loss, Senator McCain, with the help of prominent conservatives, needs to make a New National Covenant filled with new ideas and a definition of conservatism. rgraham@lawyerswest.net (Rob Graham) Wed, 13 Feb 2008 00:00:00 -0800 http://beehivestandardweekly.com/articles/182/1/Obama-Could-Take-the-West-with-the-Help-of-Mormon-Vote  Shunned Mormons Could Serve Up the West for ObamaMormons learned a hard lesson from the presidential campaign of Mitt Romney. The message Southern Evangelicals made loud and clear was "you are not welcome." Despite sharing substantially similar values, Mormons and Evangelicals are deeply divided on the issue of theology. To Mormons, voting for Evangelical candidates is routine. For Evangelicals, voting for a Mormon candidate is now seen as nearly heresy -- hence the reason Mormons may abandon the Republican Presidential nominee in November As one blog contributor noted recently, this election was never about the Mormons supporting Evangelicals, as there is a history of such support coming from Mormons. This election was about turn about and fair play. Mormons believed that the Republican Evangelical base in the southwestern portion of the United States would accept a Mormon candidate on shared values, despite theological differences. In other words, Mormons incorrectly assumed that where common values prevailed over theology, Evangelicals would return the favor and vote for a Mormon candidate. rgraham@lawyerswest.net (Rob Graham) Sun, 10 Feb 2008 00:00:00 -0800 http://beehivestandardweekly.com/articles/176/1/National-Treasure%3A-No-Secret-This-Film-Serves-Up-Family-Fun Having seen the first installment of the series, some may question whether Nicolas Cage and his entourage of conspiracy-theory treasure hunters could strike a cord a second time. The answer is somewhat mixed, but in the end, it is hard to argue that this latest episode was still very entertaining and deserving of a Saturday afternoon with the kids.The storyline picks up after the first film and we now see our hero treasure hunter, Ben Hunter (Nicolas Cage), and his ex-girlfriend (Diane Kruger) on the outs. At the same time, a strange southerner (Ed Harris) asserts that a famous ancestor of our hero was actually involved in the assassination of Abraham Lincoln, a charge Gates takes personally. rgraham@lawyerswest.net (Emerson Chase) Thu, 24 Jan 2008 00:00:00 -0800 http://beehivestandardweekly.com/articles/175/1/Romney-Thompson-Looks-Like-the-Ticket-to-Beat (Las Vegas, NV) -- Save the laughs, we need to talk politics. Last summer, we cast and predicted a Romney-Thompson ticket. Later, as Mike Huckabee stepped up and became the Evangelical vote, and Fred Thompson never seemed to launch into the campaign, we recast our prediction of a ticket as being Romney-Huckabee.At the time, it made clear sense that Romney would win the north and Huckabee would then deliver the south. Together, this ticket would have been dynamic and very tough to beat. Then Huckabee got an attitude and an ego and surrounded himself with people who told him that he could win it all.He could have recovered from the ego after New Hampshire, but insisted on using Romney's religion against him. You may have heard the term "flip-flop," but that was really code-speak to far right-wing Evangelicals. It really means "you can't really vote for a Mormon can you?"That brings us to South Carolina. Thompson suddenly started attacking Huckabee and started looking like the political player many thought he should have been months earlier. The pundits said that he was doing his buddy McCain a favor, but the truth perhaps lies deeper. rgraham@lawyerswest.net (Rob Graham) Mon, 21 Jan 2008 00:00:00 -0800 http://beehivestandardweekly.com/articles/173/1/Obama-Campaign-Eyes-Mormons-in-Nevada (Las Vegas, NV) -- An important source at the highest levels of the Obama Campaign in Nevada said Thursday that the Obama Campaign is most fearful of Mitt Romney coming out as the Republican candidate as he is dynamic and has a command of economic issues. This revelation came about as the Obama Campaign was inquiring with some prominent Mormon civic leaders about a possible Mormon cross-over vote in the Southwest to Obama if Huckabee or McCain were to be the eventual nominee. The reliable source indicated that the Obama camp is currently implementing a plan to attract Mormon Moderate Republicans to their camp as a second choice to Romney, assuming he doesn't get the Republican nomination. "I have grown up with Mormons all my life," the source stated "and I do not see them following McCain or Huckabee, so Obama can capture those votes and carry many of the Southwest states, including Arizona, if Obama can shave away only some of the Mormon vote." Mormons represent an important voting audience in the West. Though only representing five to seven percent of the total population, the actual turn out of Mormons is nearly the highest of any major voting block. It is estimated that of actual persons voting, the Mormon block accounts for nearly twenty percent of actual voters. In the West, Mitt Romney is relying upon the Mormon block to help him carry the day.  With nearly twenty percent of the vote virtually in his pocket, he has the task of broadening his message to moderate evangelicals, and economic conservatives who are not of his faith. In a speech at Brady Industries Thursday night, Romney hit hard on Washington's failure to deliver any of the promises made in the past. The large banquet room was packed to capacity as former Nevada Governor Kenny Guinn joked to the crowd that he had asked a favor of the local fire marshal to turn a blind eye on the room capacity until Romney's speech was done. Not only was the room filled to capacity, but the staircase and lower lobby were also packed. Romney noted that he had received the endorsement of the main Las Vegas paper, the Review-Journal, earlier that day and then flashed the good news that he had just learned before the speech that the editorial board at the Reno Gazette had also endorsed his candidacy. Of important note, however, was that those filling the room were in the majority of the Mormon faith, though there were clearly many, many other groups represented. This block of voters will be Romney's mainstay in the Southwest and will give Romney an immediate lift as they will turn out in large numbers and they will deliver nearly a quarter of the total votes in some areas. Recognizing the significant disadvantage, the other candidates are noticeably absent and have all but conceded the race to Romney. Huckabee should also have a reasonable showing as there are many evangelicals in the southwest, but they are often less hostile towards Mormons, which means Romney should split that important vote. As to Obama, he is also counting on the Mormon vote. If Romney is not the Republican candidate, look for Obama to cater directly to Mormons with the message of inclusion in order to take important southwestern states. rgraham@lawyerswest.net (Rob Graham) Thu, 17 Jan 2008 00:00:00 -0800 http://beehivestandardweekly.com/articles/169/1/Opinion%3A-Universal-Baseline-Health-Coverage-in-U.S. It is interesting to note that the U.S. is the only modern industrialized nation that does not have some sort of universal health coverage.   Furthermore, as the cost of insurance coverage in the U.S. continues to rise far faster than inflation and benefits continue to decline, our society is facing an increasingly urgent crises-the number of uninsured continues to sky rocket, while the under-insured middle class continues to expand.   The result is record numbers of both children and adults who do not receive even basic timely medical attention, and when they do, they tend to run to costly emergency rooms in record numbers.  Right-wing conservatives love to demonize "socialized medicine," but certainly not all "socialized medicine" is the same.  In this country we pride ourselves on providing free public education for everyone, then why can't we provide at least some baseline level of medical care for everyone, especially kids?  Some such coverage already exists and could certainly be expanded.  This would not stop individuals from choosing to get additional private coverage, but it would provide a much needed benefit to those that cannot afford even adequate basic coverage.  Taxes would go up, but I would be perfectly happy to pay higher taxes if that means I can actually get decent basic coverage without paying thousands a year in insurance premiums for unused coverage that actually does not cover much. jon.westover@gmail.com (Jonathan H. Westover) Fri, 14 Dec 2007 00:00:00 -0800 http://beehivestandardweekly.com/articles/168/1/BCS-Mess---Why-This-System-is-Not-Working In what reality does it make sense for a 2-loss LSU to be playing in a National Title game instead of a 1-loss Kansas or an undefeated Hawaii, not to mention the other 3 2-loss teams LSU leap-frogged to find its way in the 2 slot of the final BCS rankings? jon.westover@gmail.com (Jonathan H. Westover) Fri, 14 Dec 2007 00:00:00 -0800 http://beehivestandardweekly.com/articles/165/1/Graham-Stand%3A-Romney-Strikes-Presidential-Chord-in-Speech Sounding presidential and firm, Mitt Romney addressed the religiously-based challenge to his candidacy from the Huckabee Campaign. In the end, the only candidate standing was the one who wasn't proclaiming his Christianity on television commercials. rgraham@lawyerswest.net (Rob Graham) Sat, 08 Dec 2007 00:00:00 -0800 http://beehivestandardweekly.com/articles/162/1/Answering-the-Romney-Theology-Problem Mitt Romney is finally defending himself from the attacks by Evangelicals. Sadly, he is still not explaining in detail the differences between Evangelicals and Mormons. Here is a little help for our political friend, Mitt. A real explanation for those who want it.If you love point-counterpoint, dig-in and see if you learn anything. rgraham@lawyerswest.net (Emerson Chase) Sun, 02 Dec 2007 00:00:00 -0800 http://beehivestandardweekly.com/articles/164/1/Reid%26%2339%3Bs-Glorious-Plan-to-Lose-the-War Senator Reid likes having his own way, even if it means the United States of America loses the fight against terrorism. In his most recent efforts, he has pledged that the military receive no additional funding until President Bush outlines a plan of surrender and withdrawal.Thanks Harry. By the way, don't come over for Thanksgiving as I really want my team to win the football game and I can't stand it when all you can do is talk about the ugly uniforms. rgraham@lawyerswest.net (Rob Graham) Tue, 13 Nov 2007 00:00:00 -0800 http://beehivestandardweekly.com/articles/163/1/McCain%26%2339%3Bs-Mom-Slips-%26quot%3BMormons-to-Blame-for-Olympics-Scandal%26quot%3B In a major gaff of political incorrectness, John McCain's mother has created a monster problem for the Senator. In answering a question about Mitt Romney's qualifications for President on MSNBC, Roberta McCain blamed the Mormons for the 2002 Olympic's corruption scandal."As far as the Salt Lake City thing, he's a Mormon and the Mormons of Salt Lake City caused that scandal. And to clean that up, again, it's not a subject," Roberta McCain said.The Senator, who has a number of high-profile Mormon supporters, tried to deflect what was an obvious step in the politically incorrect mud."The views of my mother's are not necessarily the views of mine," the Senator quipped. rgraham@lawyerswest.net (Beehive Standard Weekly ) Fri, 09 Nov 2007 00:00:00 -0800 http://beehivestandardweekly.com/articles/161/1/Does-Huckabee-Fill-Thompson%26%2339%3Bs-VP-Shoes Okay, so we made a mistake.Like everyone else in America, we all thought that Fred Thompson was that guy on CSI -- strong, wise, a natural-born leader, a guy ready to step into a crisis and bring calm and reason. Six months into his presidential campaign and you would be hard pressed to tell the difference between Thompson and a roast beef sandwich. To say that we are all a little disappointed is a vast understatement.More importantly, however, we now have to re-cast our ultimate Republican ticket. Still at the top of the ticket is mastermind and political genius Mitt Romney. As his Vice President, the Right Reverend Michael Huckabee. The Democrats will have more than a little trouble beating this ticket. rgraham@lawyerswest.net (Rob Graham) Wed, 31 Oct 2007 00:00:00 -0700 http://beehivestandardweekly.com/articles/159/1/Costco-Vs.-Wal-Mart.-Placing-Value-in-Employees. Do corporations face a trade-off between seeking greater efficiency and higher profits with implementing more employee friendly corporate policy?  Are these actually mutually exclusive goals?  Taking a brief look at two competing big-box retailers may shed a little light on the answer to these questions. jon.westover@gmail.com (Jonathan H. Westover) Sun, 26 Aug 2007 00:00:00 -0700 http://beehivestandardweekly.com/articles/157/1/High-School-Musical-II%3A-Clean-and-Fun-Family-Entertainment-- My family and I found ourselves at the store the other day  buying goodies in preparation for the Disney premiere of High School Musical 2.  Of course we also wanted to buy the new soundtrack, so we could enjoy the new music, and while back in the rear of the store, we also saw both the original and new board games for the first and second films, which my wife decided we just had to have! jon.westover@gmail.com (Jonathan H. Westover) Sat, 18 Aug 2007 00:00:00 -0700 http://beehivestandardweekly.com/articles/153/1/Stadium-of-Fire-Sparks-and-Shines Last year, the Beehive Standard Weekly was not kind to the Stadium of Fire. It failed on almost every count to entertain and to inspire. After reading our review, several members on the Board contacted the Beehive and asked what could be improved. Apparently, the Stadium of Fire got the message because this year's event was perfect in so many ways. rgraham@lawyerswest.net (Rob Graham) Thu, 05 Jul 2007 00:00:00 -0700 http://beehivestandardweekly.com/articles/151/1/Iraqi-Orphanage-Nightmare-and-a-Beacon-of-Light-in-an-Ugly-War Like most people, I was deeply saddened and appalled by the horrific pictures of the 24 severely malnourished and abused special-needs boys found in a Baghdad orphanage this past week.  It is never easy to see such a graphic manifestation of abuse and inhumane treatment of any individual, but it is even more disheartening and demoralizing to see it as such behavior relates to the treatment and care of innocent children. jon.westover@gmail.com (Jonathan H. Westover) Sun, 24 Jun 2007 00:00:00 -0700 http://beehivestandardweekly.com/articles/150/1/Noah----Where-Art-Thou%3F-Evan-Almighty-Judged-Perfect-for-Families You remember it, don't you? Bill Cosby updates the Noah story. God calls upon a skeptical Noah who responds in modern terms and questions God's wisdom until it starts raining. In response, the modern fashioned Noah suddenly finds religion and faith. "Just you and me God, just you and me."It is a classic skit and it deserved a film version. Morgan Freeman, who reprises his role as God from "Bruce Almighty" and Steve Carrell, who makes a second appearance as the Everyman character, make this reincarnation true to form.  It is funny. It is reverent and you need to see it with your kids. rgraham@lawyerswest.net (Emerson Chase) Fri, 22 Jun 2007 00:00:00 -0700 http://beehivestandardweekly.com/articles/149/1/Graham-Stand%3A-McCain-Staffer%26%2339%3Bs-Comments-About-Mormon-Women-Unimaginable McCain presidential campaign staffer Chad Workman's comments comparing Mormon treatment of women as being similar to the radical Taliban is so backwards and bigoted it is hard to fashion a response. Senator McCain was not only correct in apologizing for Mr. Workman's comments, but it is hard to imagine that McCain could even conjure up such an image given his own personal experience with a large Mormon constituency. Perhaps Mr. Workman should ask Mormon "woman" Bay Buchanan how she feels about her religion before he puts another five toes in his mouth. rgraham@lawyerswest.net (Rob Graham) Fri, 22 Jun 2007 00:00:00 -0700 http://beehivestandardweekly.com/articles/148/1/New-Hinckley-Alumni-Center-To-Be-Dedicated-at-BYU Thanks to more than 70,000 donors, including more than 48,000 alumni and 8,000 students, the Gordon B. Hinckley Alumni and Visitors Center is nearing completion and will be dedicated this Saturday, June 23, during a 1 p.m.(MDT) ceremony. rgraham@lawyerswest.net (Beehive Standard Weekly ) Wed, 20 Jun 2007 00:00:00 -0700 http://beehivestandardweekly.com/articles/147/1/Alaska%3A-Fishing-in-God%26%2339%3Bs-Country Some may assert the religious importance of Jerusalem, the Vatican or Salt Lake City, but everyone knows that Alaska was created by God as an escape from the ever present conflicts and stress created by man. Any piece of Alaska is worthy of praise, but one small piece should be considered special enough to warrant consideration for your first visit to Alaska -- Gustavus via Juneau. rgraham@lawyerswest.net (Rob Graham) Tue, 19 Jun 2007 00:00:00 -0700 http://beehivestandardweekly.com/articles/142/1/Fred-Thompson---Positioning-for-VP Fred Thompson has come too late to the Presidential party of contenders for a serious run; however, some are speculating that he is the required balance in a ticket with Mitt Romney as right-wing conservatives want the influence of a tried and true southerner on a northern-based, Mormon president. The northern-based Catholic Kennedy had his Johnson, now Romney will have his Thompson. Where Kennedy and Johnson were at constant odds, however, this ticket will lead the United States into more competent domestic and international policies than that of both Bill Clinton and George W. Bush. rgraham@lawyerswest.net (Rob Graham) Mon, 28 May 2007 00:00:00 -0700 http://beehivestandardweekly.com/articles/140/1/BEEHIVE-NEWS-FIRST-WITH-ROMNEY-PREDICTION Columnist Robert Novak predicted that Mitt Romney's religion was likely to sink his candidacy. Not that we like to brag, but the Beehive News was the first to predict being a Mormon would actually help Romney in his presidential bid.  With Romney being first in fundraising (15% of which came from Romney's Mormon base) and now leading in several key states, it is time again to analyze why Romney's Mormon-ness might put him over the top come 2008 rgraham@lawyerswest.net (Rob Graham) Sun, 27 May 2007 00:00:00 -0700 http://beehivestandardweekly.com/articles/133/1/Shortage-in-Supply-of-Utah-Teachers-- What will it take for the state legislators to recognize and fully acknowledge the major education dilemma in Utah?  As the student-age population continues to rise, the supply of teachers continues to decline.  We don't need another group of public and higher education leaders to look at how to increase the number of teachers.  It is simple: increase teacher pay.   It is simple labor supply and demand economics.  Increase the salary, and supply will increase.  It is nice that online institutions are available in the state to provide a flexible alternative for interested individuals to receive their teaching licensure, but that flexibility alone won't be enough to draw people into the field.  The bottom line is that not many want to be a teacher in the state because it is near impossible to raise a family on a teacher's starting salary in the state of Utah.  I love interacting with students, and when I started my university education I wanted to teach.  I thought about teaching high school for about 10 seconds.  However, it just didn't seem feasible, so I abandoned that idea and switched to business--for no other reason than the pay.  I suspect that there are many others who have gone through the same process--who may prefer to teach but economic reality forces them to do something that will provide for their family instead. It is time for state leaders to finally accept that teachers need to be paid more.  It is the only real way to increase the number and quality of teachers who will be teaching the rising generation.  jon.westover@gmail.com (Jonathan H. Westover) Fri, 26 Jan 2007 00:00:00 -0800 http://beehivestandardweekly.com/articles/125/1/Rocky-Balboa-Review In response to Rick Gregory's letter, ""Film's rating is misleading" (Readers' forum, Jan 2, 2007), about the new movie, "Rocky Balboa," I will readily acknowledge that there is some "violence, profanity, vulgarity, brief gore, racial epithets, [and] brief drugs"--it is, after all, a boxing movie.  However, this movie was not just rated PG because there was "no sex."  I saw this movie on New Year's Day, and was very impressed. This film was not like the comic book-esk "Rocky IV," with graphic boxing violence, little story-line, and even less dialog, chronicling Rocky's unlikely defeat of his giant Russian opponent. This movie did not glorify the fighting like other later installments in the Rocky saga.  jon.westover@gmail.com (Jonathan H. Westover) Mon, 08 Jan 2007 00:00:00 -0800 http://beehivestandardweekly.com/articles/103/1/The-100-Most-Influential-Historical-Figures-in-American-History Joseph SmithBrigham YoungTWO MORMON LEADERS CREDITED WITH INFLUENCING AMERICAN HISTORYAccording to the monthly magazine The Atlantic, two early Mormon leaders are considered among the 100 Most Influential Historical Figures in American History.  The founder of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Joseph Smith, is listed as number 52 on the list, while American Moses and the Father of the West, Brigham Young is listed as number 74. rgraham@lawyerswest.net (Emerson Chase) Wed, 22 Nov 2006 00:00:00 -0800 http://beehivestandardweekly.com/articles/102/1/Looking-Back-from-2008%3A-Romney-was-Best-Choice The year is 2008. (Don't ask any questions, let's just pretend.)The last two years of President Bush's term have been about building a legacy and reestablishing goodwill in the world.  Sadly, President Bush's effectiveness has been marginalized as he no longer poses a threat to the Democrats and his coattails have been effectively shredded.As one recalls, in the days of the Republican revolution in the early 90's, a new branch of the Democratic Party sprung to life that was more conservative and more centrist. William Jefferson Clinton benefitted from the political change and filled the vacuum of leadership missing in the Party. rgraham@lawyerswest.net (Rob Graham) Mon, 20 Nov 2006 00:00:00 -0800 http://beehivestandardweekly.com/articles/101/1/Disney-Sequal-to-High-School-Musical-Might-Be-Headed-to-St.-George ST. GEORGE, UTAH -- Is it possible that the production for the sequal to High School Musical (Disney) may be headed to St. George, Utah?  Sources for the Beehive Standard Weekly tell us that St. George, Utah has shot up the list for locations for the adolescent hit.  Previously, the producers were considering other warm-weather locations, such as Palm Springs, however, the State of Utah is now dangling a hefty $500,000 incentive package and the producers have taken a closer look at the beautiful country presented in Southern Utah.  According to our sources, who asked not to be identified given the sensitivity of the negotiations, other considerations making St. George, Utah a strong contender is its proximity to California, local talent and assistance available, and suitable film locations. rgraham@lawyerswest.net (Beehive Standard Weekly ) Sat, 18 Nov 2006 00:00:00 -0800 http://beehivestandardweekly.com/articles/96/1/Some-Paid-the-Ultimate-Sacrifice-Lessons-to-be-learned-from-Handcart-Pioneers-150-years-later. Most members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints quickly recognize "The Willie and Martin Handcart companies" as a group of people who made their journey to Zion so late in the season that they suffered a terrible price, lost lives, and endured crushing hardship. Yet few know the complete story of the stirring details that make this trek one of the Church's most inspiring sagas. In the new book The Price We Paid: The Extraordinary Story of the Willie and Martin Handcart Pioneers (Deseret Book), author Andrew Olsen carefully details the people, their leaders, and their rescuers while unfolding an amazing story of grief and joy, despair and hope, abandonment and faith. The book delivers the most comprehensive and accessible account ever written of this epic journey- from Liverpool to the Salt Lake Valley. rgraham@lawyerswest.net (Beehive Standard Weekly ) Wed, 08 Nov 2006 00:00:00 -0800 http://beehivestandardweekly.com/articles/89/1/Celebrate-Christmas-with-Gladys-Knight-and-the-2006-Grammy-winning-Saints-Unified-Voices CHRISTMAS WITH GLADYSAND ONE VOICE CHOIRSALT LAKE CITY, UTAH - After winning the 2006 Grammy for Best Gospel Choir Alblum with their debut release One Voice, Ms. Gladys Knight and the Saints Unified Voices are caroling in the holiday season with their follow-up alblum, A Christmas Celebration. Showcasing such classics as "Silent Night" and "Winter Wonderland," A Christmas Celebration is a collection of holiday favorites infused with soul. The album also features narration by Ms. Knight, who guides listeners on a nostalgic Christmas journey as the choir celebrates with their signature gospel rhythms and rich harmonies. rgraham@lawyerswest.net (Beehive Standard Weekly ) Wed, 01 Nov 2006 00:00:00 -0800 http://beehivestandardweekly.com/articles/81/1/Caught-On-Tape%3A-Hunters-Beware-of-Utah%26%2339%3Bs-Judge-Lewis%21 VS.   Apparently, Judge Leslie Lewis of the Third District Court in Utah does not like hunters so she recused herself from a case involving hunters.  The following is a court transcript of the video found at YouTube.com. All things considered, hunters might want to avoid this judge!(Video link at bottom of article) rgraham@lawyerswest.net (Beehive Standard Weekly ) Thu, 26 Oct 2006 00:00:00 -0700 http://beehivestandardweekly.com/articles/80/1/BYU-Researchers-Open-Door-to-Diagnosing-Eating-Disorders A team of researchers at Brigham Young University has developed a method to diagnose eating disorders using hair samples from patients.The team achieved 80 percent accuracy with five hairs from each participant. Larger studies will be conducted later to develop an approach that can be used clinically. The development of a physiological test for anorexia and bulimia nervosa, which afflict 1 to 5 percent of young women in the United States, is important because of the inability of many who suffer from the conditions to recognize their illnesses and be candid about their feelings and eating practices. rgraham@lawyerswest.net (Charlie Montrose) Sun, 22 Oct 2006 00:00:00 -0700 http://beehivestandardweekly.com/articles/79/1/Flicka-is-a-Must-See-for-Families Adapted from the novel "My Friend Flicka" by Mary O'Hara, this film is a throwback to the days when the only stars were a man and his horse. In this case, however, it is a teenage girl looking to find her place in the world and a renegade horse that needs to be tamed. Though sometimes obvious, the film's director stays true to the sentiment of the book and allows the story to unfold to the benefit of the viewing audience.Similar to the classic The Black Stallion, Flicka recounts a story about the maturing of a teenage girl, Katy (Alison Lohman). Through her experiences with a spirited horse, she learns about her own rebellious nature as she tries to tame the wild mustang. rgraham@lawyerswest.net (Beehive Standard Weekly ) Sun, 22 Oct 2006 00:00:00 -0700 http://beehivestandardweekly.com/articles/78/1/Boston-Globe-Accuses-LDS-Church-of-Supporting-Romney Apparently the Boston Globe doesn't know much about the Mormon church. The Globe appears to be making every possible attempt at smearing presidential hopeful Mitt Romney and the LDS church by accusing both of being politically connected.As evidence, the Globe quotes from an email sent by an overzealous Romney supporter to a few of his friends in the LDS church.  By all accounts, the one-sided email looks more like an attempt to gather a following than evidence of a following.From all appearances, the Globe would like to have its readers think that the LDS church is financing and running Romney's campaign for president as part of a devious master plan to control the world.  The evidence to support that assertion, however, is about as credible as John Mark Carr's confession to have killed JonBenet Ramsey.(more) rgraham@lawyerswest.net (Rob Graham) Fri, 20 Oct 2006 00:00:00 -0700 http://beehivestandardweekly.com/articles/38/1/Graham-Stand-Archives%3A-Past-Article-About-Why-Being-Mormon-Helps-Romney This article was originally published in early 2006 -- it was the first to nationally argue that Romney's Mormonism might be a strength to his candidacy.Apparently, the cultural revolution of the 1960's did not do much for religious tolerance. At least that is the "scoop" coming out of our nation's capital as portrayed recently by well-known conservative columnist Robert Novak.  According to a recent article on whether Mitt Romney can sway the southern evangelical vote, Novak interviewed several key evangelical leaders who indicated that their rank-and-file would rather vote for Hilary Clinton than see a Mormon in the nation's highest office and that without their vote, Romney cannot win.Them's fighten' words. rgraham@lawyerswest.net (Rob Graham) Fri, 20 Oct 2006 00:00:00 -0700 http://beehivestandardweekly.com/articles/74/1/Wynn-Shows-Good-Character-in-Picasso-Accident Good character is what you show yourself when you are not compelled to be on good behavior. It was nice to see Steve Wynn's excited utterances when he elbowed a hole in a Picasso classic in his museum. As reported by witnesses, after Wynn elbowed the multi-million dollar painting "Le Reve" in the center, he said "Look what I've done . . . thank goodness it was me."First impressions stick.  The first impression of Wynn's remarks are that he understood that this painting was priceless and that it could have financially ruined another person.  Instead, Wynn took it on the chin, cancelled a pending sale of the artwork for $139 million and told the world he would keep the painting in his private collection.He could have easily paid off the witnesses and tried to hide the accident.  He also could have blamed others around him -- as many others do -- for his own error. He didn't and that shows us something about his values.It is nice to see that in the world of high finance and casino building, there is at least a little bit of good character that still exists. Mr. Wynn deserves a good pat on the back for setting a good example for others. For now, Steve Wynn gets to hold the honey pot! rgraham@lawyerswest.net (Rob Graham) Wed, 18 Oct 2006 00:00:00 -0700 http://beehivestandardweekly.com/articles/56/1/Funny%3A--Charlie-Montrose-Builds-a-New-Room After I entered the store, my demeanor changed. I was in plywood paradise. I was Dorothy in the land of Oz. The store shelves skied above me filled with contractor candy. There were bolts, and nails, and boards, and power tools. I knew that I had died and gone to heaven. rgraham@lawyerswest.net (Charlie Montrose) Tue, 12 Sep 2006 00:00:00 -0700 http://beehivestandardweekly.com/articles/72/1/Monster-House-is-Scary-Kiddie-Fun I'm a wimp at heart. I saw an edited version of Aliens and had to sleep with lights on for about two weeks!  At the time I was twenty-nine. So it was with severe reservations that I took my kids to see Monster House. If the name of the movie didn't clue you in, Monster House is about a Monster that is a House. If you expect to be seeing Teletubbies or Mr. Roger's Neighborhood, you should probably stay home. rgraham@lawyerswest.net (Charlie Montrose) Sat, 22 Jul 2006 00:00:00 -0700 http://beehivestandardweekly.com/articles/71/1/America-Needs-A-New-Slogan%3A-Don%26%2339%3Bt-Tread-On-Me We find ourselves in difficult circumstances today because of the desire to maintain peace and avoid conflict at all costs. Totalitarian nations and terrorists act without reservation because they know that they can act without concern about the United States intervening. Somehow, over the years, the slogan "DON'T TREAD ON ME" has become "DON'T COUNT ON ME" as many politicians and a significant minority of Americans lack the courage to take a stand against anything that involves war or conflict. rgraham@lawyerswest.net (Rob Graham) Sat, 22 Jul 2006 00:00:00 -0700 http://beehivestandardweekly.com/articles/70/1/Is-It-Always-This-Cloudy-Over-Senator-Reid%26%2339%3Bs-Head%3F Despite his failures and false steps in directing the war, the President has done a masterful job in directing the economy. He has been true to his conservative values and has kept taxes and unemployment low while keeping consumer spending and confidence high. rgraham@lawyerswest.net (Rob Graham) Sat, 01 Jul 2006 00:00:00 -0700 http://beehivestandardweekly.com/articles/61/1/Movie-Review%3A-Nacho-Libre-is-Black-at-His-Best Jared Hess, writer and director of Napoleon Dynamite brings us Nacho Libre, an equally crazy movie about equally weird people. Jack Black stars as a Mexican friar called Ignacio-Nacho is his nickname-who is not content with his life as a cook in an orphanage. rgraham@lawyerswest.net (Jacob Russell) Tue, 27 Jun 2006 00:00:00 -0700 http://beehivestandardweekly.com/articles/60/1/The-Graham-Stand%3A-New-York-Times-Reckless-at-Best In America, Treason is a crime and stupidity that results in the loss of life is at least manslaughter - regardless of the motivation underlying the stupid act. Regardless of how important you think you are, the standard for the New York Times is the same standard for the Des Moines Register. rgraham@lawyerswest.net (Rob Graham) Mon, 26 Jun 2006 00:00:00 -0700 http://beehivestandardweekly.com/articles/66/1/Graham-Stand%3A-500-Chemical-Weapons-Found-In-Iraq-Not-Enough-for-Liberals If you take a look in Section D, Page 14 of the New York Times, you might see the fact of the discovery of 500 chemical weapons during the War in Iraq mentioned in print. To give you perspective, less than ten of these weapons were used to kill an entire city in northern Iraq during the Saddam Hussein regime.  Apparently, though, finding these weapons has all come too late for anyone at the New York Times or L.A. Times as the story is buried and has been given no exposure.  That is why little papers like the Beehive Standard Weekly exist -- to give the truth, not the spin. rgraham@lawyerswest.net (Rob Graham) Sat, 24 Jun 2006 00:00:00 -0700 http://beehivestandardweekly.com/articles/62/1/Move-Review%3A-Cars-is-Fast-and-Furious-Fun Director John Lasseter (Toy Story, A Bug's Life) brings the world of Cars to life in a fun and imaginative way. Everybody and everything is some kind of vehicle. Flies and mosquitoes are tiny Volkswagen Bugs with wings and tractors are cows. At one point in the film Mater takes Lightning out for some "tractor tippin'." Gas stations are restaurants, garages are motels, paint shops are clothing stores, and tire shops are shoe stores. rgraham@lawyerswest.net (Jacob Russell) Fri, 23 Jun 2006 00:00:00 -0700 http://beehivestandardweekly.com/articles/63/1/Four-LDS-Contestants-Compete-in-Miss-Nevada-Pageant Fourteen young women have their sights set on the Miss Nevada title this year. Four of these ladies are members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and they all feel that winning this title will help them become better people and more able to serve others. rgraham@lawyerswest.net (Jacob Russell) Tue, 20 Jun 2006 00:00:00 -0700 http://beehivestandardweekly.com/articles/55/1/The-Graham-Stand%3A-U.S.-World-Power-Being-Lost-In-Propaganda-War Like most super powers of the past, America has dominated militarily.  America, however, is starting to lose her dominance as other nations are finding strength through alliances, economic and political, and they are starting to understand how to effectively use non-traditional weapons against the super power, such as lobbying and media relations. rgraham@lawyerswest.net (Rob Graham) Tue, 20 Jun 2006 00:00:00 -0700 http://beehivestandardweekly.com/articles/53/1/Opinion%3A-Happy-Father%26%2339%3Bs-Day.--Where%26%2339%3Bs-Dad%3F If you hadn't noticed, the father's of the world are gone. Whether it be having children out of wedlock or two lesbian women having a child, one thing that is happening at an alarming rate is that fathers are disappearing from the landscape. Given the statistics for fatherless homes, our society is going to be in serious trouble.  Here are a few alarming numbers from credible studies relating to this issue: rgraham@lawyerswest.net (Emerson Chase) Wed, 07 Jun 2006 00:00:00 -0700 http://beehivestandardweekly.com/articles/52/1/The-Graham-Stand%3A-Should-All-Children-Have-a-Mom-and-Dad%3F Senator Harry Reid is adamant that he supports the proposition that marriage is intended to be between a man and a woman, its just that he doesn't want it to be the law of all the land.  It is okay if it is the law of some of the land, like in Nevada where the people have spoken by a large margin to define marriage as part of the state's constitution, just not every state - in the name of diversity and acceptance, of course. rgraham@lawyerswest.net (Rob Graham) Wed, 07 Jun 2006 00:00:00 -0700 http://beehivestandardweekly.com/articles/68/1/Movie-Review%3A-The-Devil-Wears-Prada-Was-Better-as-101-Dalmations The movie has its entertaining moments, but it was a tired old story that couldn't decide where it wanted go and it didn't want to take any risks. It was simple and predictable all the way through. The book by Lauren Weisberger (which I will probably read now) was a bestseller for six months, and I'm curious to find out what the filmmakers did to it. If the book sold millions, I have to believe that it was changed dramatically. rgraham@lawyerswest.net (Jacob Russell) Tue, 06 Jun 2006 00:00:00 -0700 http://beehivestandardweekly.com/articles/51/1/Movie-Review%3A-X-Men-Will-Blow-You-Away This story is full of unexpected surprises. Because Halle Berry complained about having small supporting roles in the first two movies, this time her character, Storm, now plays a larger role, as she and Wolverine must lead the team. If you've seen the first two, prepare to be shocked; that's all I'm saying. rgraham@lawyerswest.net (Jacob Russell) Wed, 31 May 2006 00:00:00 -0700 http://beehivestandardweekly.com/articles/49/1/Is-English-Preference-Really-Racist%3F Nevada Senator Harry Reid has stated that forcing illegal immigrants to learn English before they qualify for citizenship is racist.  Okay Senator, putting aside the political rhetoric, let's examine what is racist and what just makes sense. rgraham@lawyerswest.net (Rob Graham) Mon, 22 May 2006 00:00:00 -0700 http://beehivestandardweekly.com/articles/41/1/Claremont-University-Announces-Endowed-Chair-for-Mormon-Studies Claremont Graduate University announced the launch of a $6 million fundraising campaign for the Howard W. Hunter Chair for Mormon Studies, the first of its kind at a secular university in the United States. The new course furthers CGU's focus on comparative analysis of faith-based traditions, making the institution a national leader in world religious studies. rgraham@lawyerswest.net (Beehive Standard Weekly ) Mon, 15 May 2006 00:00:00 -0700 http://beehivestandardweekly.com/articles/22/1/The-Gospel-of-Judas---Another-Viewpoint-or-Heresy%3F Thirty years ago, a leather bound document was discovered in Egypt. After passing through the hands of many collectors and speculators, the National Geographic Society has obtained the document and has made an attempt at translating its contents.  It is being referred to as the Gospel of Judas. rgraham@lawyerswest.net (Rob Graham) Mon, 15 May 2006 00:00:00 -0700 http://beehivestandardweekly.com/articles/16/1/Modest-Dress-of-Teens-Speaks-Volumes-About-Parents There is not a single parent alive who can control how a teenager dresses. Certainly, they can control what the teenager wears as they walk out the door, but if the child desires to dress like a belly-babe pop star when she arrives at school, there is little a parent can do to stop it.  The sad reality is that parents can only teach the rules of modesty at a young age and hope that a child will follow them out of respect. rgraham@lawyerswest.net (Rob Graham) Sun, 14 May 2006 00:00:00 -0700 http://beehivestandardweekly.com/articles/3/1/Did-George-Bush-Sr.-and-Romney-Buy-Dunkin%26%2339%3B-Donuts%3F- He is good looking. He is smart. He is eloquent, and the Democrats are taking no chances in being unprepared for a Mitt Romney presidential run. According to recent news reports, the Democratic National Committee has requested volumes of public material from the Massachusetts state government in order to carefully examine Romney's record. At the same time, Massachusetts Representative Barney Frank, an openly gay member of the House of Representatives, has gone on the attack against Romney. rgraham@lawyerswest.net (Rob Graham) Sun, 14 May 2006 00:00:00 -0700 http://beehivestandardweekly.com/articles/14/1/Exposure-to-Inappropriate-Media-Not-the-Only-Danger-to-Our-Youth Oh, those Teens! First they beg to see the rated R movies and then they are off demonstrating their new-found skills. Go figure.A recent study by the University of North Carolina, published in the Journal of the American Academy of Pediatrics, has found a strong link between what kids see in the media and their level of sexual activity as teens.  The study followed children over several years and examined their level of exposure to inappropriate media and their subsequent level of sexual activity. The study concluded that a link does exist. rgraham@lawyerswest.net (Rob Graham) Sat, 15 Apr 2006 00:00:00 -0700 http://beehivestandardweekly.com/articles/20/1/Modestly-Speaking There they were, hundreds of dresses on the "prom" rack of Dillards and not one with a hint of modesty. Sharon sighed in despair, "Why can't I just be normal and wear what I want?" hpayne@lawyerswest.net (Heather Payne) Sat, 01 Apr 2006 00:00:00 -0800