He'll often ask a co-captain to deliver his stern message.

While Carlos quickly found ways to multiply his funds, his father wrote stern messages in the margins.

In contrast, in discussing Iraq, he delivered a stern message.

It was a stern message delivered in a measured, calm tone.

Although a chair had been provided for him, Baresmanas apparently felt that his stern message would carry more weight if delivered standing.

"Naturally, we are disappointed in the behavior of certain employees," it said in a stern message on its Web site.

When officials were asked about the suspension they stated, "We wanted to be frank and send a stern message to all players.

Then the president stepped in and delivered a stern message: Compromise and get the tax bill done by the end of the week.

Izzo is known as the more fiery of the two coaches, but Williams's players said he put across a stern message during his halftime speech.

And the government has delivered a stern message to the national news media demanding that they promote - not challenge - the official agenda.