Saturday, September 23, 2006
Monday, March 13, 2006
I love you Elmo
I truly do. What do you do when you get an hour's notice that you will be caring for a 13 month old baby. First, you call everyone you know that has a little person. Then you drive around with your new little person and you pick up the essentials - portacrib, formula, bib, spoon, baby food, a bottle. Then you take the baby home and put on "Elmo in Grouchland" and you thank the goddess for that little red Elmo as the baby falls sound asleep. No, it is not ideal to have a baby mesmorized by a TV show but you know folks, you do what you have to do. I love Elmo. Thursday, February 23, 2006
Don't Forget This Little Girl
Dianne Hardy-Garcia and Sarah ChavezMy heart broke when I received the email from The Family Pride Coalition informing us that Executive Director Corri Planck's foster child was dead. This little girl Sarah, age 3 is dead. She was taken from her lesbian foster parents, Corri Planck and Dianne Hardy-Garcia, and returned to her aunt and uncle. All Corri and Dianne's reports to the social workers about the abuse of Sarah in the aunt and uncle's home were ignored. Sarah never had so much as a medical exam to see if she had been physically and sexually abused. An excerpt from the LA Times article
Later that Monday, Planck and Hardy-Garcia said, they received a call from Sarah's court-appointed attorney, ordering them to get Sarah ready to be picked up in two hours by her relatives. The women packed Sarah's things while the little girl cried and tried to put her clothes back in her dresser.
"It was heartbreaking," Hardy-Garcia said. "We knew we were sending her back to someplace unsafe." The couple's worst fears soon were realized. In the months after Sarah was returned to the Abundis' home, she stopped talking, had trouble sleeping and began punching and picking at herself, case records show. Examinations by physicians in May and July found the girl had behavioral problems and abrasions on her neck, face and forehead. But social workers assigned to the case took no action to remove Sarah again, according to the case file.
And when Sarah's aunt took her to Garfield Medical Center for treatment of a severely broken arm on the night of Oct. 10 and then took her home over the objections of medical staff, no one at the hospital called to report abuse. A subsequent state investigation concluded that hospital staff should have done so. The next morning, the Alhambra Fire Department found Sarah dead at the Abundises' home, killed by a severe blow to her abdomen, according to the preliminary coroner's investigation.
In 2006 we are going to be hearing a lot about the immorality of LGBT people adopting children. The GOP has determined that this will be the "gay marriage" issue of 2006 that will activate their base, building on their success with the anti-marriage amendments. The reasoning: now that we know the sanctity of marriage is being protected, they can go to the next step and preserve the sanctity of families by keeping children out of the hands of the perverted. USA Today
reports that the GOP is working in 16 states to build support for the anti-adoption movement.
So when you are hearing this hatred and bigotry and being asked to cast your vote in favor of it, remember Sarah. Never forget that little face.
reports that the GOP is working in 16 states to build support for the anti-adoption movement.
So when you are hearing this hatred and bigotry and being asked to cast your vote in favor of it, remember Sarah. Never forget that little face.
Wednesday, February 22, 2006
Happily Stuck in Ithaca Podcast
Podcast #4 is ready for your listening pleasure! Shane and I discuss Buyblue.org and admit to our domestic incompetency. Let us know what you think, or send food. Tuesday, February 21, 2006
Fact Checker
Vonetta FlowersOne must look and listen very closely to find that Shani Davis was not the first African American to win a Gold Medal in the Winter Olympics. He is however, the first to win an individual gold medal. I looked at numerous news items, about half mentioned he was the first to win individual gold.
Vonetta Flowers was the first African American to win a gold medal in the 2002 Salt Lake City Winter Olympics in Bobsled. My apologies to Vonetta for the misinformation.
But I must say, I watched the broadcast of Shani Davis for a couple of hours and I can guarantee you there was no mention of Vonetta Flowers. I, and the others watching with me, all walked away with the clear understanding that Shani was the first. Was the difference between individual and team so well known that it was expected that all knew there was a distinction? I think not. Makes you wonder that if Vonetta had been a man, would she have been mentioned and revered as the first?
Vonetta Flowers was the first African American to win a gold medal in the 2002 Salt Lake City Winter Olympics in Bobsled. My apologies to Vonetta for the misinformation.
But I must say, I watched the broadcast of Shani Davis for a couple of hours and I can guarantee you there was no mention of Vonetta Flowers. I, and the others watching with me, all walked away with the clear understanding that Shani was the first. Was the difference between individual and team so well known that it was expected that all knew there was a distinction? I think not. Makes you wonder that if Vonetta had been a man, would she have been mentioned and revered as the first?
Olympic Gold
Shani Davis, first African American to EVER win a gold medal in the Winter Olympic Games. He did it in Men's Speed Skating.A reminder that we still have many barriers to break down. Even sports require a certain priviledge to participate in and to rise to the ranks of an Olympian.
I have to admit that I'm an Olympics junkie. I don't think I have ever missed watching an Olympics since Bruce Jenner won the decathlon. I try not to think about it too hard, the commercialism, the politics, the racism, the sexism that are apart of the Olympics. I try to just watch and be awed at the beauty of sport, the human body in motion.
Yesterday while watching the Women's Hockey finals I was reminded about how far we have come as women to be "allowed" to participate in traditionally male sports. Then I came across this article in the Newsday that made my heart sink. Women are still not permitted to participate in ski jumping in the Olympics. An excerpt:
To anyone acquainted with the history of women's sports, the thudding excuses the women ski jumpers are given for their exclusion from the Games are sadly, ridiculously familiar. Gian-Franco Kasper, head of the International Ski Federation, has said, "Ski jumping is just too dangerous for women. Don't forget, [the landing] it's like jumping down from, let's say, about two meters to the ground about a thousand times a year, which seems not to be appropriate for ladies from a medical point of view."
The medical point of view? We will damage our ovaries and uterus and thus not be able to bear children. We have more work to do women.
The medical point of view? We will damage our ovaries and uterus and thus not be able to bear children. We have more work to do women.
Friday, February 03, 2006
A Class Act
Coretta Scott King1927-2006
"For many years now, I have been an outspoken supporter of civil and human rights for gay and lesbian people," King said at the 25th Anniversary Luncheon for the Lambda Legal Defense and Education Fund.... "Gays and lesbians stood up for civil rights in Montgomery, Selma, in Albany, Ga. and St. Augustine, Fla., and many other campaigns of the Civil Rights Movement," she said. "Many of these courageous men and women were fighting for my freedom at a time when they could find few voices for their own, and I salute their contributions." - Chicago Tribune, April 1, 1998, sec.2, p.4.
May we never forget.
Thursday, February 02, 2006
Civil Rights & Gay Marriage
I have to be honest. When the LGBT community decided a few years back to make Gay Marriage the next civil rights arena, I was pissed. I believed that marriage was not an inclusive issue for the community, that many of us had long ago decided that even if possible, we would not participate in an institution that was steeped in a history of misogyny. My deep desire to wear a tux was not enough. I felt like it was a compromise that we should fight for full civil rights not the right to just participate in marriage. I’ve somewhat changed my thinking, but not completely.
I had been concerned that the conservative Christian movement would turn it into a battleground that would show how homo-hatred permeates our culture. I was right on that one. We have never really been able to express the civil rights issues that are contained in the Gay Marriage debate, but let’s face it – the Moral Majority is good at what they do and managed to make sure that hatred and fear were at the forefront of people’s thinking when they walked into the voting booths. We have paid a heavy price for it. This is not a blame of the LGBT community in any way; the blame lies solely with the freepers.
My friend Shane always makes me think and open my mind a little further. He is doing what he can in his every day life to make a difference. He delivered the following statement at the City Council meeting last night:
One month ago this Council appointed marriage officers. Since then, I’ve come to realize that the irony which does not escape me, is missed by enough people that I feel compelled to point it out. This is the irony that as a marriage officer I am able to marry couples, but am unable to be married due to the fact that I am gay. This fact makes me sad, and sadder still that so many of my friends and acquaintances in long-term same-sex relationships cannot ask me to perform marriages for them.
Just last night the President delivered his State of the Union address in which he compared marriages between same-sex couples to the lobbying scandals that have plagued Washington D.C. I am sure you can imagine how personally insulting that is to me.
I am consoled, however, by the fact that I live in a city and a community in which our Mayor has made a strong statement in favor of marriage equality, in which 25 local couples are suing the state to challenge marriage law, and in which there are lawyers willing to donate their time and effort to this struggle.
So even though this isn’t a presidential election year, and you’re hearing about it less in the mainstream press, this fight for equal rights continues. I just wanted to provide a small reminder, as the marriage officer who cannot be married.
Gay marriage keeps us talking, keeps us searching and keeps us at the forefront of the civil rights debate. People’s minds are being changed and there is evidence that people can take only so much hatred before their better selves open up. I have to remember that each day and not forget to do what I can.
Monday, January 30, 2006
Class and Privilege
seems to be a theme in my life this year. Apparently, it is time for me to take more steps in understanding or the world wouldn't be bringing it into my life so much. How's that for trying to be spiritual about it? Humph. I'd rather not deal with it thank you very much.
I consider myself bi-class having grown up with working class parents who were able to become middle class but never let go of their working class values or ways and instilled them in us. I am able to function in both worlds for the most part. They were never comfortable in the middle class and I certainly am not. The other part of the equation is that I never feel completely at home in either. What I have learned though, is that I act from the place of my working class values but struggle so hard when I am forced into what I consider middle or upper class situations where those values are prevailing. And I often find myself betraying my working class values when I'm filled with fear and trying to "get by" in that other world.
The greatest lesson my father ever taught me was by example. He has a PhD and was a Vice President of a college in a small Iowa town. When he left that position due to a change in administration, he took a job at the local hog farm. He would work from 5am until dark. He was ostracized by people in town because they were appalled that someone with his education would take a job shoveling pig shit. When people would ask him why, he would just smile and would humbly say "there's no job that I'm too good for". He never understood people's reaction, he truly didn't get it. To him, he was just feeding his family and giving his children what he hoped would make their lives easier, an education. I watched him many times buck the middle class system and I'm sure he paid for it professionally. And he never betrayed his working class values, and never left his friends.
Thank you Dad.
I consider myself bi-class having grown up with working class parents who were able to become middle class but never let go of their working class values or ways and instilled them in us. I am able to function in both worlds for the most part. They were never comfortable in the middle class and I certainly am not. The other part of the equation is that I never feel completely at home in either. What I have learned though, is that I act from the place of my working class values but struggle so hard when I am forced into what I consider middle or upper class situations where those values are prevailing. And I often find myself betraying my working class values when I'm filled with fear and trying to "get by" in that other world.
The greatest lesson my father ever taught me was by example. He has a PhD and was a Vice President of a college in a small Iowa town. When he left that position due to a change in administration, he took a job at the local hog farm. He would work from 5am until dark. He was ostracized by people in town because they were appalled that someone with his education would take a job shoveling pig shit. When people would ask him why, he would just smile and would humbly say "there's no job that I'm too good for". He never understood people's reaction, he truly didn't get it. To him, he was just feeding his family and giving his children what he hoped would make their lives easier, an education. I watched him many times buck the middle class system and I'm sure he paid for it professionally. And he never betrayed his working class values, and never left his friends.
Thank you Dad.
Thursday, January 26, 2006
Ginger's CIA Adventure
It started as an innocent search for a definition of terrorism. I ended up on the CIA Website. I could hardly believe that they had a kids section that is to teach children about what the CIA "does". It features games, spy disguises and my favorite, "Ginger's CIA Adventure". Go ahead, take a tour of the CIA with Ginger. Notice I am not linking you to it 'cause I don't want the CIA to read my blog. Oh, they probably already have.
Betcha didn't know this:
Betcha didn't know this:
Has the CIA ever provided funding, training, or other support to Usama Bin Laden?
No. Numerous comments in the media recently have reiterated a widely circulated but incorrect notion that the CIA once had a relationship with Usama Bin Laden. For the record, you should know that the CIA never employed, paid, or maintained any relationship whatsoever with Bin Laden.
- From the CIA Website, Terrorism Frequently Asked Questions Section
Maybe they can't find him because they looked him up in the phone book under Usama instead of Osama. Maybe they should put Ginger on the case.
Tuesday, January 24, 2006
What a Geek
I am. But at least I admit it. Sometimes it hits me at the strangest times. For the most part, I walk through my life thinking I'm very cool. Heck, I'm forty something and I blog AND podcast. I must be cool. Then I'll have a sudden observation of myself doing something and I think "wow, I am such a gee
k." I even have people (you know who you are) pointing out my geekness on a regular basis but blip, up goes the shield of "I am really very cool" and I strut off in my coolness. 
My observation of geekdom today was when I realized that the two books I am reading are a biography of Abigail Adams and Bill Clintons monstrosity of a book. And I like them. See, I've been reading them for a month and it just occurred to me today. That's how thick that shield is.
k." I even have people (you know who you are) pointing out my geekness on a regular basis but blip, up goes the shield of "I am really very cool" and I strut off in my coolness. 
My observation of geekdom today was when I realized that the two books I am reading are a biography of Abigail Adams and Bill Clintons monstrosity of a book. And I like them. See, I've been reading them for a month and it just occurred to me today. That's how thick that shield is.
Monday, January 23, 2006
Car Share Ithaca
Car Share is a plan that needs to come to Ithaca...NOW. I need it now. I want it now. Before my inspection runs out in February and I have to replace my damn gas tank that is going to cost me more than what I spent to buy the car. I am so sick and tired of paying for a car that I literally drive to the store because I'm too lazy to take the bus. I live three blocks from where I work and other than the awful hill I have to walk up, I have no excuse. I pay for parking where I live! I pay for my car to sit all day. It's disgusting.
On Thursday January 26, 2006 from 11am - 4pm there will be a summit on Car Share programs from other cities. The program will be in the Borg Warner Room of the Tompkins County Library.
Visit Ithaca Car Share for more information.
Please, please help me get Car Share in Ithaca. Call somebody. Anybody. The City of Ithaca. The Pope. Hillary Clinton. Do your part. Thank you.
On Thursday January 26, 2006 from 11am - 4pm there will be a summit on Car Share programs from other cities. The program will be in the Borg Warner Room of the Tompkins County Library.
Visit Ithaca Car Share for more information.
Please, please help me get Car Share in Ithaca. Call somebody. Anybody. The City of Ithaca. The Pope. Hillary Clinton. Do your part. Thank you.
Sunday, January 22, 2006
Steelers Take It
Congratulations to the Steel Curtain! This was a tough one for me. I grew up near Pittsburgh and dreamed of going to a Steeler game (never made it) and was obssessed with the team. I have many pictures to prove it. Now I have strong loyalties to the Denver Broncos and am very sad that they lost this one. My sympathies go out to my nephew Sam Starr and my dad Jack & family who are diehard Broncos fan. Genetic Bewilderment
The New York Times ran an article Are you My Sperm Donor? on Thursday that is attempting to address the issues of anonymous sperm donation. They attempt to explain the reasons the donor clinics are allowed to remain anonymous and how this impacts the off spring. It is an appalling, unregulated system. The donor institutes are self regulated and have determined that anonymity is imperative for the continuation of the industry, as let's not forget, a money making venture. Of course, the anonymity is imperative for the adults involved, NOT the children that are created, which the article does make clear. However, as an adoptee, I found the statement in the article that
"perhaps because assisted reproduction is viewed as a medical procedure for adults, critics say the children are often forgotten. Unlike adoptees, who have gained the right to their original birth certificates, some donor-conceived offspring still do not know how they came to be. One reason for the pressure on the industry now is that more parents are telling their children about the method of their conception."
irresponsible and inaccurate at best, and a complete denial of the adoption system in the United States that perpetuates denial and harm. Let's clear up a few things. It is a blatant lie that adoptees have a right to their original birth certificates. In NY State, there has been legislation in the Judicial Committee of the Senate that would grant adoptees the right to their original birth certificates for 18 years that has failed to pass, and continues to meet great resistance. The right to original birth certificates for adoptees is only legal in 7 states. Unsealed Initiative is a group of New Yorkers that have been fighting legislatively for this right, and Bastard Nation has been working on a national level.
I couldn't even begin to share the stories of adoptees that have spent thousands of dollars and untold pain in searching for their genetic history and the people that brought them into the world. I myself, spent 20 years on the project. It's remarkable how pervasive the denial is in the adoption system and in the donor industry. I have hope in the donor kids that are growing up and demanding that they be able to know who their fathers and mothers are. Some of these kids are actually finding their donors through online DNA tests and registries. Another example of how we must at times go outside of the system to get what we need. Adoptees have been doing it for years.
"perhaps because assisted reproduction is viewed as a medical procedure for adults, critics say the children are often forgotten. Unlike adoptees, who have gained the right to their original birth certificates, some donor-conceived offspring still do not know how they came to be. One reason for the pressure on the industry now is that more parents are telling their children about the method of their conception."
irresponsible and inaccurate at best, and a complete denial of the adoption system in the United States that perpetuates denial and harm. Let's clear up a few things. It is a blatant lie that adoptees have a right to their original birth certificates. In NY State, there has been legislation in the Judicial Committee of the Senate that would grant adoptees the right to their original birth certificates for 18 years that has failed to pass, and continues to meet great resistance. The right to original birth certificates for adoptees is only legal in 7 states. Unsealed Initiative is a group of New Yorkers that have been fighting legislatively for this right, and Bastard Nation has been working on a national level.
I couldn't even begin to share the stories of adoptees that have spent thousands of dollars and untold pain in searching for their genetic history and the people that brought them into the world. I myself, spent 20 years on the project. It's remarkable how pervasive the denial is in the adoption system and in the donor industry. I have hope in the donor kids that are growing up and demanding that they be able to know who their fathers and mothers are. Some of these kids are actually finding their donors through online DNA tests and registries. Another example of how we must at times go outside of the system to get what we need. Adoptees have been doing it for years.
Proud
Picture by Keelinn LaskarisI'm so proud of 8 year old Keelinn. For the second year in a row, her artwork was chosen to be in the school district art show. I'm utterly amazed at her Georgia O'Keefe like flower piece. She has wanted to be an artist since she could talk and grabs any writing utensil that is laying around and claims it as her own. I think I will save all of the pictures she has drawn for me because I think this kid could be famous someday!
Thursday, January 19, 2006
Soulforce
I love Soulforce. They are planning to have LGBT families attend the annual Easter Egg Hunt at the White House. Not as a protest but to give our families "a place at the table". Read the White House response from PageOneQ White House Responds.
Wednesday, January 18, 2006
Believe
Each day I go through the news reports to choose something to post that I think is relevant and needs shared. This last week has left me so overwhelmed with all that's going on, I truly don't even know where to start. Wiretapping, Alito confirmation hearings, the Pentagon having a database of children for future recruitment, the Medicare Drug fiasco that has left so many without life sustaining medication, Al Gore's "finally a democrat with ovaries" speech and the White House spin machine going bonkers, John Conyers incredible request for investigation and impeachment. So I gave up, I can't choose from this list. It's coming too fast and furiously.
When I was going through the archives of Happily Stuck in Ithaca for our podcast, I came across this list that Shane had posted a few years ago and will share it here.
Things you have to believe to be a republican today:
Saddam was a good guy when Reagan armed him, a bad guy when Bush's daddy made war on him, a good guy when Cheney did business with him and a bad guy when Bush needed a "we can't find Bin Laden" diversion.
Trade with Cuba is wrong because the country is communist, but trade with China and Vietnam is vital to a spirit of international harmony.
The United States should get out of the United Nations, and our highest national priority is enforcing UN resolutions against Iraq.
A woman can't be trusted with decisions about her own body, but multi-national corporations can make decisions affecting all mankind without regulation.
Jesus loves you, and shares your hatred of homosexuals and Hillary Clinton.
The best way to improve military morale is to praise the troops in speeches while slashing veterans' benefits and combat pay.
If condoms are kept out of schools, adolescents won't have sex.
A good way to fight terrorism is to belittle our long-time allies, then demand their cooperation and money.
Providing health care to all Iraqis is sound policy. Providing health care to all Americans is socialism.
HMOs and insurance companies have the best interests of the public at heart.
Global warming and tobacco's link to cancer are junk science, but creationism should be taught in schools.
A president lying about an extramarital affair is an impeachable offense.
A president lying to enlist support for a war in which thousands die is solid defense policy.
Government should limit itself to the powers named in the Constitution, which include banning gay marriages and censoring the Internet.
The public has a right to know about Hillary's cattle trades, but George Bush's driving record is none of our business.
Being a drug addict is a moral failing and a crime, unless you're a conservative radio host. Then it's an illness, and you need our prayers for your recovery.
You support states' rights, which means Attorney General John Ashcroft can tell states what local voter initiatives they have the right to adopt.
What Bill Clinton did in the 1960s is of vital national interest, but what Bush did in the '80s is irrelevant.
Friends don't let friends vote republican.
When I was going through the archives of Happily Stuck in Ithaca for our podcast, I came across this list that Shane had posted a few years ago and will share it here.
Things you have to believe to be a republican today:
Saddam was a good guy when Reagan armed him, a bad guy when Bush's daddy made war on him, a good guy when Cheney did business with him and a bad guy when Bush needed a "we can't find Bin Laden" diversion.
Trade with Cuba is wrong because the country is communist, but trade with China and Vietnam is vital to a spirit of international harmony.
The United States should get out of the United Nations, and our highest national priority is enforcing UN resolutions against Iraq.
A woman can't be trusted with decisions about her own body, but multi-national corporations can make decisions affecting all mankind without regulation.
Jesus loves you, and shares your hatred of homosexuals and Hillary Clinton.
The best way to improve military morale is to praise the troops in speeches while slashing veterans' benefits and combat pay.
If condoms are kept out of schools, adolescents won't have sex.
A good way to fight terrorism is to belittle our long-time allies, then demand their cooperation and money.
Providing health care to all Iraqis is sound policy. Providing health care to all Americans is socialism.
HMOs and insurance companies have the best interests of the public at heart.
Global warming and tobacco's link to cancer are junk science, but creationism should be taught in schools.
A president lying about an extramarital affair is an impeachable offense.
A president lying to enlist support for a war in which thousands die is solid defense policy.
Government should limit itself to the powers named in the Constitution, which include banning gay marriages and censoring the Internet.
The public has a right to know about Hillary's cattle trades, but George Bush's driving record is none of our business.
Being a drug addict is a moral failing and a crime, unless you're a conservative radio host. Then it's an illness, and you need our prayers for your recovery.
You support states' rights, which means Attorney General John Ashcroft can tell states what local voter initiatives they have the right to adopt.
What Bill Clinton did in the 1960s is of vital national interest, but what Bush did in the '80s is irrelevant.
Friends don't let friends vote republican.
Sunday, January 15, 2006
MLK Peacemaker Award
Congratulations to my friend, Kathy Luz Herrera for receiving the 8th Annual MLK Peacemaker Award from Community Dispute Resolution Center. Kathy was presented the award at the MLK Breakfast on Saturday. There is really not a person out there that exemplifies the MLK dream and puts it into action like Kathy. I'm proud to call her friend. Visit Kathy's website to read and learn more about her.Saturday, January 14, 2006
City of Evil Part II
The question was raised as to why I referred to Ithaca as the "City of Evil". The last thing I want to do is give these people any kind of publicity, but I think it's important that people (especially Ithacans) are aware of what is being said about us. The website is Free Republic and they are a group of hateful, small minded, bigoted people who have determined that Ithaca, Boulder and Berkeley are the liberal Axis of Evil. I have read things about people I know and care about on this site and have been frightened for them, wondering how far these people would go. In their own words:
"Do a search for "Ithaca" here at FR. You'll see a near daily dose of institutionalized, unfettered, liberal idiocy."
They even sell bumper stickers and mugs that say "Ithaca is the City of Evil". Makes me rather proud. I will occasionally point out the acts that are occurring in Ithaca that they believe are evil.
Thursday, January 12, 2006
City of Evil
This is the kind of thing that happens here in Ithaca, the "City of Evil". Access to health care for all our neighbors, not just those that can afford it.
Ithaca Health Alliance and Ithaca Free Clinic is located at 225 South Fulton Street, Suite B in Ithaca, NY.
Ithaca Free Clinic Grand Opening
Monday, January 23, 2006!! Ithaca Free Clinic administrative volunteer orientation - January 27, 2006. 3pm at the Ithaca Free Clinic. If you're interested in volunteering and want to attend, please let our Clinic Coordinator know at clinic@ithacahealth.orgIthaca Health Alliance and Ithaca Free Clinic is located at 225 South Fulton Street, Suite B in Ithaca, NY.
Visit http://www.ithacahealth.org/events.htm for more information.
Wednesday, January 11, 2006
Ithaca's Finest
Below is an email from one of my Sheros in this life, Lisa Guido. She is an Ithacan and I'm blessed to call her friend. She is in New Orleans with her partner Audrey Stewart and their two young children helping with the recovery. Lisa and Audrey always walk the walk.Here is her report:
Hey All,
It’s been another eventful week here with some small victories for residents for a change!
The reversal of the illegal eviction by the Quality Inn hotel was especially inspiring to me because the evacuees sitting on the sidewalk got to march right back into their rooms they were wrongfully told to leave.
Sitting, standing and chanting with them were volunteer law students from around the country who spent their winter vacation working here. Some 3rd year students said their time here this week was the best experience of their entire education, an example of something decent that could be accomplished when people pool their skills together.
The actions also included community members and out-of-town volunteers from both People’s Hurricane Relief and Common Ground.
Approximately 150 volunteers are here working with Common Ground, continuing to gut & clean houses, staff a number of distribution centers, provide free health and law clinics and a Womens shelter. Anna, Thea and Claire from Ithaca are all staying at (and staffing) the Womens Shelter. It was previously a bar, which Anna and others gutted and it is getting more fixed up all the time.
Efforts at Common Ground continue to get more organized, with bunk beds being built to house more volunteers for the longer-term in a gutted Church & Community Center in the 9th ward. There are tents in the yard, many being donated for the next wave of volunteers. It is expected to go on for many more months.
I hope to write more soon. I’m attaching 2 photos of a collapsed house from the lower 9th ward. One is a close-up with a notice from FEMA.
If you’re unable to read it, it says that the homeowner’s application for disaster assistance could not be completed because they weren’t at home (!) The picture was taken just 1 day after the area was even re-opened on Dec 1.
Some other houses in the area were flooded to the roof but still standing, others collapsed even further, looking like a jumble of boards twisted around people’s possessions. Many people drowned here.
Thousands of evacuees have returned to New Orleans since late December to re-start their uncertain lives here, since school let out. For survivors who didn’t lose family or friends, they still face varied damage to their homes or workplace, loss of jobs and community and so on.
One of the many wonderful volunteer law students working on the bulldozing case this week saw a pillow amidst the remains of a targeted house. Surprisingly, the embroidery on it could still be read…..it said “The Meek Shall Inherit the Earth”.
Peace,
Lisa, Audrey, Gabe and Dominic
It’s been another eventful week here with some small victories for residents for a change!
The reversal of the illegal eviction by the Quality Inn hotel was especially inspiring to me because the evacuees sitting on the sidewalk got to march right back into their rooms they were wrongfully told to leave.
Sitting, standing and chanting with them were volunteer law students from around the country who spent their winter vacation working here. Some 3rd year students said their time here this week was the best experience of their entire education, an example of something decent that could be accomplished when people pool their skills together.
The actions also included community members and out-of-town volunteers from both People’s Hurricane Relief and Common Ground.
Approximately 150 volunteers are here working with Common Ground, continuing to gut & clean houses, staff a number of distribution centers, provide free health and law clinics and a Womens shelter. Anna, Thea and Claire from Ithaca are all staying at (and staffing) the Womens Shelter. It was previously a bar, which Anna and others gutted and it is getting more fixed up all the time.
Efforts at Common Ground continue to get more organized, with bunk beds being built to house more volunteers for the longer-term in a gutted Church & Community Center in the 9th ward. There are tents in the yard, many being donated for the next wave of volunteers. It is expected to go on for many more months.
I hope to write more soon. I’m attaching 2 photos of a collapsed house from the lower 9th ward. One is a close-up with a notice from FEMA.
If you’re unable to read it, it says that the homeowner’s application for disaster assistance could not be completed because they weren’t at home (!) The picture was taken just 1 day after the area was even re-opened on Dec 1.
Some other houses in the area were flooded to the roof but still standing, others collapsed even further, looking like a jumble of boards twisted around people’s possessions. Many people drowned here.
Thousands of evacuees have returned to New Orleans since late December to re-start their uncertain lives here, since school let out. For survivors who didn’t lose family or friends, they still face varied damage to their homes or workplace, loss of jobs and community and so on.
One of the many wonderful volunteer law students working on the bulldozing case this week saw a pillow amidst the remains of a targeted house. Surprisingly, the embroidery on it could still be read…..it said “The Meek Shall Inherit the Earth”.
Peace,
Lisa, Audrey, Gabe and Dominic
Tuesday, January 10, 2006
Working behind bars.
Photo by Rebecca Koch & Caitlin Connelly
Friday, January 06, 2006
Petition to Repatriate Geronimo's Skull
"Congress Petitioned for Return of Geronimo's Remains"
from Indian Country Today
Here is an article that you will not see in the mainstream press but speaks volumes to the imperialist presidency of George Bush, and the long history of elite racists that are running our country.
Here is the content of the petition. Read it and share with others:
To: U.S. Congress
To the Congress of the United States of America,
In 1918, the President's grandfather, Prescott Bush, and several accomplices desecrated the grave of Apache holy man Geronimo at Ft. Sill, OK. The men removed Geronimo's head and a prized silver bridle which had been buried with him. Using acid and amid laughter, they stripped Geronimo's head of hair and flesh. They then took their "trophies" back to Yale University and put them on display in the clubhouse of the secret fraternity "Skull & Bones."
The "Skull & Bones" is a secret society founded at Yale in 1832. Its history is intertwined with that of the German Illuminati and the Nazi Party. They maintain a windowless building called "The Tomb" at 64 High Street, New Haven, Connecticut. The club's assets are controlled by a front company, The Russell Trust Association, Inc. Every year, 15 Yale juniors are "tapped" for Skull & Bones membership. They are indoctrinated into the cultish society with elaborate rituals steeped in satanic theatricism and latent homosexuality. The goal of this fraternity is to create the ultimate network of "good ol' boys" around the world. Their alumni includes Prescott Bush's son (George H. W.) and grandson (George W.) as well as heads of state and leaders of numerous intelligence agencies, trading companies, business empires and law firms.
Several years ago, a Skull & Bones member anonymously "leaked" information regarding the society and "The Tomb." This included documents and photographs. One of the documents detailed Prescott Bush's graverobbing exploits. One of the photographs was of a skull and bridle on a shelf, next to a framed photograph of Geronimo. Other sources have since come forward and confirmed that Geronimo's skull is indeed on display in "The Tomb" and considered the "mascot" of this "club" on High Street.
Although the Skull & Bones refuses to officially acknowledge their existence, members have tacitly admitted to possessing Geronimo's head. In fact, Skull & Bones members (including Jonathon Bush, the President's brother) met with Apache leaders in New York in 2000 and attempted to hand over a skull. It was obviously not the skull seen in the smuggled photograph. When this apparent substitution was exposed, the "Bonesmen" changed their story, saying the proxy skull was that of an Indian child.
The Skull & Bones then threatened legal action if the documents and photos from "The Tomb" weren't returned immediately. They apparently had second thoughts, after realizing authorities might ask questions about the apparent abundance of Native skulls kept in New Haven. However, neither skull has been returned and that of Geronimo is apparently still the official mascot of the Yale club.
We the undersigned are horrified with this display of elitist, racist witchcraft and ask Congress, with the assistance of whatever law enforcement necessary, to launch an immediate investigation into the theft and possession of human remains by the Skull & Bones society, the Russell Trust Association, Inc. and/or any members of the US Government involved, past or present.
Sincerely,
The Undersigned
To sign the petition, visit: www.petitiononline.com/Geronimo/petition.html
from Indian Country Today
Here is an article that you will not see in the mainstream press but speaks volumes to the imperialist presidency of George Bush, and the long history of elite racists that are running our country.
Here is the content of the petition. Read it and share with others:
To: U.S. Congress
To the Congress of the United States of America,
In 1918, the President's grandfather, Prescott Bush, and several accomplices desecrated the grave of Apache holy man Geronimo at Ft. Sill, OK. The men removed Geronimo's head and a prized silver bridle which had been buried with him. Using acid and amid laughter, they stripped Geronimo's head of hair and flesh. They then took their "trophies" back to Yale University and put them on display in the clubhouse of the secret fraternity "Skull & Bones."
The "Skull & Bones" is a secret society founded at Yale in 1832. Its history is intertwined with that of the German Illuminati and the Nazi Party. They maintain a windowless building called "The Tomb" at 64 High Street, New Haven, Connecticut. The club's assets are controlled by a front company, The Russell Trust Association, Inc. Every year, 15 Yale juniors are "tapped" for Skull & Bones membership. They are indoctrinated into the cultish society with elaborate rituals steeped in satanic theatricism and latent homosexuality. The goal of this fraternity is to create the ultimate network of "good ol' boys" around the world. Their alumni includes Prescott Bush's son (George H. W.) and grandson (George W.) as well as heads of state and leaders of numerous intelligence agencies, trading companies, business empires and law firms.
Several years ago, a Skull & Bones member anonymously "leaked" information regarding the society and "The Tomb." This included documents and photographs. One of the documents detailed Prescott Bush's graverobbing exploits. One of the photographs was of a skull and bridle on a shelf, next to a framed photograph of Geronimo. Other sources have since come forward and confirmed that Geronimo's skull is indeed on display in "The Tomb" and considered the "mascot" of this "club" on High Street.
Although the Skull & Bones refuses to officially acknowledge their existence, members have tacitly admitted to possessing Geronimo's head. In fact, Skull & Bones members (including Jonathon Bush, the President's brother) met with Apache leaders in New York in 2000 and attempted to hand over a skull. It was obviously not the skull seen in the smuggled photograph. When this apparent substitution was exposed, the "Bonesmen" changed their story, saying the proxy skull was that of an Indian child.
The Skull & Bones then threatened legal action if the documents and photos from "The Tomb" weren't returned immediately. They apparently had second thoughts, after realizing authorities might ask questions about the apparent abundance of Native skulls kept in New Haven. However, neither skull has been returned and that of Geronimo is apparently still the official mascot of the Yale club.
We the undersigned are horrified with this display of elitist, racist witchcraft and ask Congress, with the assistance of whatever law enforcement necessary, to launch an immediate investigation into the theft and possession of human remains by the Skull & Bones society, the Russell Trust Association, Inc. and/or any members of the US Government involved, past or present.
Sincerely,
The Undersigned
To sign the petition, visit: www.petitiononline.com/Geronimo/petition.html
Thursday, January 05, 2006
Resolutions
Humph. I won't give in this year either. I have never done New Year's resolutions and don't intend to start. The New Year always makes me ponder though, just ponder. What were the major events of the last year? How have I changed and grown? Did I do all that I wanted to do? Am I tired from the year?
The year's highlights:
1. Meeting my birthfather, the first person I have ever met that is related to me.
2. Meeting my birth family.
3. Visiting my "other" family for the first time in many years.
4. The greatest loss of my life.
5. The greatest amount of fear I've ever known.
6. My first surgery
7. My first iPod.
8. My first podcast.
All in all, a great year. I feel more grown up than I have ever felt. Damn. I thought that might not happen to me.
The year's highlights:
1. Meeting my birthfather, the first person I have ever met that is related to me.
2. Meeting my birth family.
3. Visiting my "other" family for the first time in many years.
4. The greatest loss of my life.
5. The greatest amount of fear I've ever known.
6. My first surgery
7. My first iPod.
8. My first podcast.
All in all, a great year. I feel more grown up than I have ever felt. Damn. I thought that might not happen to me.
Wednesday, January 04, 2006
Happy 8th Birthday!
To change the subject from politics, here is my favorite picture of Keelinn and I taken in the summer of 2005.Happy Birthday honey!
Monday, January 02, 2006
Democracy Now!
Democracy Now! is where it all began for me. My first podcast. I listen every day. But you can also read the information at the website. I realized that after a week, I was incredibly angry and frustrated all the time. But also very grateful for my life. I feel like I am finally a citizen of this world.
We are not informed citizens if we listen to the corporate media. Period. If we are not informed, we can not act in a democracy. It is my lesson in this lifetime. It's all so overwhelming but we have a responsibility to be informed and in turn inform others.
I have put some of the alternative press website links on the site. As I develop the blog, I will post articles and commentary, both locally and nationally.
We are not informed citizens if we listen to the corporate media. Period. If we are not informed, we can not act in a democracy. It is my lesson in this lifetime. It's all so overwhelming but we have a responsibility to be informed and in turn inform others.
I have put some of the alternative press website links on the site. As I develop the blog, I will post articles and commentary, both locally and nationally.
Sunday, January 01, 2006
Welcome!
I have recently joined the ranks of folks who have discovered Podcasts. I'm addicted. As I have heard many people say, it has changed my life. News on demand. Progressive political commentary on demand. Comedy on demand. The downside is that I now walk around in a rage about what is going on in this country and I need someway to express it before all my friends abandon me. Just posting an article will make me feel better. I'll be doing my part. My friends will like me again. I may feel joy again. I'm so hopeful.
The other side of this phenomenon, is that I am not only listening to Podcasts, but have become a Podcaster. With my friend Shane, we are podcasting Happily Stuck in Ithaca, which is a take off of Shane's blog of the same name. He has been writing the blog for 5 years now. So far we have received great reviews on the podcast from our "many" fans and are having a great time doing it. Visit www.happilystuckinithaca.com/podcasts/ to listen in to our hopefully hilarious commentary on life.
Thanks for visiting. I hope you enjoy!
The other side of this phenomenon, is that I am not only listening to Podcasts, but have become a Podcaster. With my friend Shane, we are podcasting Happily Stuck in Ithaca, which is a take off of Shane's blog of the same name. He has been writing the blog for 5 years now. So far we have received great reviews on the podcast from our "many" fans and are having a great time doing it. Visit www.happilystuckinithaca.com/podcasts/ to listen in to our hopefully hilarious commentary on life.
Thanks for visiting. I hope you enjoy!
