Throughout  several provinces in the southern and central provinces of China, torrential summer rains have caused severe flooding, claiming the lives of over 450 people.

It has been reported today, as you'll see in the clip below, that  several thousand of people were forced to head for high ground, evacuating their homes across the country. The soldiers assisted residents with loading their belongs, racing against time, before the floods reach them.

Heavy equipment that was brought in to repair a broken dyke caused the ground to give way, toppling the large machinery. Landslides have claimed over 15 lives today, July 13, 2010, alone. There are dozens missing throughout the provinces of Guizhou, Sichuan, Jiangsu, Zhejiang and Chongqing City, China.

Post Master General John Potter made an announcement on Tuesday March 2 that the USPS would be cutting it services to the nation. Citing record breaking declines in volume as the culprit for the decision.

It seems like more Americans are relying on the internet to conduct business. At the same time rising gas prices are also taking a toll on the dwindling mail-order service. Potter was quoted as saying “The crisis we are facing gives us a historic opportunity to make changes that will lay the foundation for a leaner, more market-responsive Postal Service that can thrive far into the future.”

Now I am not one to gossip but, I am glad I don’t work at the post office. I am sure we all understand the old phrase “going postal”. The last thing anyone wants to do is threaten a postal worker’s pension plan. In fact, Potter did mention some changes to the system. However, he was very clear to not use the terms layoff or early retirement.

BLACK AFRICAN PRIDE

I see black women, beautiful, in all shapes and sizes.

Strong thick lips filled with a ray of hope.

I hear their voices, singing and praising God.