Duchess Note ... Several upcoming Rally's that may be of interest to some of you. I know I am very interested & will be at the rally on June 23rd. See below for more info.]

Bush Coming to NYC on June 23rd! Help us greet him!!!
Monday, June 23rd 2003 5:00 pm
NYC, New York

President Bush will be holding a fundraising event for his re-election campaign on the evening of Monday, June 23rd at the Sheraton New York Hotel and Towers. Please help us support a permited rally organized by Planned Parenthood of NYC at 5:00 pm. This is an excellent opportunity to join forces and demonstrate to the world our opposition to the Bush administration's anti-choice, anti-rights and anti-peace policies. For more information please contact:

UFPJNY: 212-603-3700
PPNYC: Gina Gambone, 212-274-7247

Location: Sheraton New York Hotel and Towers West 52nd Street and Seventh Avenue NYC New York

Contact:
United for Peace and Justice
info@unitedforpeace.org
212-603-3700

Sponsored By: Planned Parenthood of NYC United for Peace and Justice NY http://unitedforpeace.org

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Also, check out this website:

http://www.justiceinjuly.org/

Check out this fascinating article [if you wish] by Thom Hartmann, via Common Dreams website.

"How An Earlier "Partriot Act" Law Brought Down A President"

http://www.commondreams.org/views03/0616-03.htm

We're finally getting a combination of late spring, early summer weather over last few days, plus the occasional spurt of showers. Anyhow ... yesterday was a sunny, warm, cloudy day and no rain. I headed up to Connecticut for the day to spend time with my good friend Katherine. We've been communicating via email and occasionally the phone, but haven't seen each other since January. Much has happened during that span of months in her life. First of all, over a delicious seafood lunch at Red Lobster, she tells me that her and her beau Maurice are engaged. This is great news and I'm very happy for her. The situation concerning her daughters [ages 17 1/2 & 20 1/2] isn't so good, especially in regards to the younger girl. To complicated to go into and some of the subject matter is of a delicate nature. Stopped by the cemetery to take care of my grandmothers grave, stopped by her house briefly so she could take the dog out for walk. [I do not like Pitbulls.] Then we headed over to visit her beau/fiance Maurice. I experienced good vibes when I met Maurice and one can tell how much he deeply cares about my dear friend. We hung out for awhile, chatted and watched some neat film footage that he is working on restoring for a wealthy Connecticut family. Cool stuff. Then we went out for a drive to check out [& photograph] some pretty parks/gardens and get ice cream. Overall I had a nice day and got back to NYC around 8:30pm.

Recently picked up a new Richard Bach book on the "Ferret Chronicles" series. This delightful book is called "Rancher Ferrets on the Range" and mostly takes place up in Montana [Big Sky country].

My neighbors are always saying that car accidents happen alot at intersection near my apartment. In the 18 years of living in my Brooklyn apartment, not yet has one happened when I've been home, until last night. At about 10:30pm I'm sitting at my computer typing an email to my friend Sheila down in Florida. When I heard screeching tires and major crashing. Next thing I know the people in apartment above me are running to their window facing street and people next door run out of building to have a "look". As for me ... I continue to type my email. Two minutes later I hear and see a firetruck & ambulence go up my street. I live on a one-way street and these vehicles were going in the wrong direction. So I stop typing, grab my keys and head outside. I forget to put sandals on, but since its nice and warm outside, it doesn't matter. I look up the street and already a crowd has gathered viewing the "scene", along with the firetruck/ambulence/police folk doing their thing. So I stand in front of my building trying to gage whats going on and talking to one of my neighbors on second floor [she's looking out her window]. So far, we can tell from passers-by that no one is dead or seriously hurt. Thank god! After about 5 minutes or so I walk up the street to where some of my neighbors had congregated. We talked and viewed the accident scene. Both cars were totalled, one was slammed up next to a street-light post and had also shoved two parked cars onto curb. The second car, in this fiasco, was across the street up on curb. Apparently the one driver didn't stop at the stop sign and rammed into the other car as it went thru the intersection. You know auto insurance companies will be busy with this situation. After awhile I said "goodnight" to my neighbors and headed back to my apartment to finish email, then go to bed, cause by this time it was after 11pm. What a night! Whew!

I'm telling yah ... if Bill Moyers ran for president of the USA tomorrow ... I'd vote for him. Sadly, he isn't running for president, but a recent article from THE NATION called "Bill Moyers 'Presidential' Address" was fantastic. Personally, I'd like to see Dennis Kucinich be the Democratic hopeful. We need someone to turn this nation around and for the better. He may be the one to do it. Away from the total corruption [ie: greedy liars] of the Bush empire. Check out the article if you wish:

http://www.commondreams.org/views03/0609-10.htm

If you wish to sign a petition for American Values and joining the fight to keep President Bush's right-wing extremist nominees off the Supreme Court, fill out the form at the link below. Plus tell your friends about the Supreme Court Action Center.

In just a few days, more than 110,000 people signed the DNC's petition. The people at Moveon. org are preparing to deliver your signatures and comments, and they want to give your friends and family one final chance to sign the petition and support Democrats in this crucial fight.

http://mailer.democrats.org/rdr/002Kt00fJ90001D

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Several interesting websites dealing with world peace, politics and other important issues. Check them out if you wish:

http://www.thebulletin.org

http://www.wagingpeace.org

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On a cheerful note, I went up to Yonkers yesterday to do my volunteer work at the Ferret Shelter. The weather was muggy, rainy and a slight breeze. Good day to be indoors doing something relaxing or fun. It was great seeing the wee adorable furballs again. Joanne adopted out several to good homes, but has also received several newbies [ie: Staten Island] and their mostly 8 to 9 month old kits. They seem to be in good healthy, soft fur and full of inquisitive energy. The little "sad story" furkid from my last visit is doing better in walking/running around, fur is getting full/softer, inquisitive, cuddly, happy, but sadly has been diagnosed with Lymphnoma. He's on medication to help him along. It was great seeing Joanne, Aliza, Briana and Toni again, as well as the two dogs and all the cats. Did my usual duties in the shelter and one of these days will need to learn how to clip furkid nails. Someday.....................

Check out this great article [remarks] published on Thursday, June 5, 2003 by CommonDreams.org
Iraq's WMD Intelligence: Where is the Outrage?
by US [D] Senator Robert Byrd

http://www.commondreams.org/views03/0605-13.htm

[Duchess Note: If interested, please read on and take action, if not, disregard and believe me, I would understand completely.]

On Monday, Michael Powell and his allies on the Federal Communications Commission voted 3-2 to authorize media consolidation. It's a sad day for democracy -- this decision will place the bulk of our country's newspapers and TV stations in even fewer hands. Diversity, fairness, and competition will decline as a result.

Luckily, democracy's awful resilient. Congress has the power to overturn these rule changes. More than 100 members of the House and roughly 20 members of the Senate asked the FCC not to approve these rule changes at this time. The members of Congress were right to be concerned, and they have the authority to act on those concerns now by introducing legislation that will undo these changes. Our friends at Common Cause have made it easy to contact your Representatives and Senators and let them know that you want the FCC's rules repealed.

You can take action now at:

http://causenet.commoncause.org/afr/issues/alert/?alertid=2446521

Click on the link below to read [June 2nd article - NY Times] about how the recent Bush Administration tax-cut benefits the wealthy and no one else. Basically Bush takes from the poor/middle classes and gives to the rich, just like his father did and of course Reagan. Check it out, if you wish:

http://www.commondreams.org/views03/0602-06.htm

Greetings all ... todays journal entry will be non-political. Hum ... do I hear a sigh of relief from my regular readers. For once I'm going to chat about fun things, instead of topics which depress us all. Anyhow................

This past Saturday was another wet, cool day/evening in the Big Apple, but that didn't stop certain people from enjoying a fun BBQ. No way! Party on dude! At the ELITE gym where I workout and train ... John & David threw a big BBQ that evening. I showed up at the gym at 6pm with a big tin of my freshly baked brownies and chocolate chip cookies. Andrea and her beau Tim followed me in and the backyard was totally covered with awnings, tarp and umbrellas. Not a drop of rain fell on the guests and fellow gym members all evening, tho we knew it was storming up. For 4 1/2 hours I had a wonderful time chatting with people, drinking wine, eating good food and sampling some yummy cakes. [All of this I worked off at the gym next day.] We also celebrated John's 32nd b-day [he is my personal trainer] and there were achievement awards for certain gym members. I also saw some folk I haven't seen in a year and we caught up on gossip. It was a blast and everyone in good humor. From there I took car service home.

Recently I finished reading a terrific, interesting, funny book by Bill Bryson. Its called "I'm A Stranger Here Myself" and I recommend to all. Its basically the authors observations of America, after living in England for 20 years. I found myself laughing out loud during parts of it. Which can be somewhat embarressing when riding NYC transit. As with his last book ... "A Walk In The Woods" ... I have this urge to visit New Hampshire, go to a drive-in movie, eat a Twinkie, as well as hike part of the Appalachian Trail. Yes, I know, abit odd. Definitely go purchase the book and enjoy.

[Duchess note ... this tidbit is from a recent newsletter from Moveon.org. Great organization! Check it out if you wish.]

The Democratic National Committee has now joined the fight with a "Supreme Court Countdown" and online petition, and we think it's important to support them too. We've spoken to chairman McAuliffe and he's agreed to deliver our petition comments personally to Senate Minority Leader Tom Daschle. He'll ask Sen. Daschle to get your comments to his colleagues in the Democratic caucus as well.

To sign the DNC petition and send your comment, just go to:

http://www.democrats.org/scotus/petition.html?s=moveon

We expect chairman McAuliffe to deliver these comments next week, so add your voice today.

President Bush and the right wing are pulling out all the stops on these nominations. They've even talked about a "nuclear option" -- attempting to change the rules of the Senate to deny the use of the filibuster in the consent process. It's amazing that these politicians would consider destroying the time-honored traditions of the Senate and undermining the "advise and consent" provisions of the Constitution.

The Democrats are standing up in this fight, in the face of heavy pressure from the Bush White House. They need to hear our appreciation for this courageous stand and our demand that they hold the line. They need to hear that we understand what's at stake and will stand with them.

Go now to:

http://www.democrats.org/scotus/petition.html?s=moveon

As I'm sure you know, these appointments are for life, and these judges make decisions that impact every aspect of our public and private lives. Our actions today will affect generations to come.

Interesting article from Denver Post ... "Musicians Blast FCC Plan - Members of R.E.M. & Pearl Jam Decry Radio Consolidation". Rock on dudes! God damn government and big corporations are slowly taking away our first amendment rights et al. Down with corporate media ... let's hear it for free speech!!

http://www.denverpost.com/Stories/0,1413,36~78~1406829,00.html

On to something light and fun ... Elf Quiz! I took the quiz/test and found out I'm a tranquil elf. Cool! Check it out:

http://www.orlandobloom.co.nz/elftest.html

Even tho the weather mostly sucked [overcast, wet, cool] over the Memorial Day weekend, we did have a lovely, sunny, warm Sunday afternoon upstate NY. Did a few fun things over the course of three days ... such as: visit the Bennington Battlefield in VT, took a tour of Schuyler Mansion in Schuyler [NY], visited Saratoga National Cemetery, hit several tag sales [lots of good bargins], eat out a few times, shopping in Saratoga Springs [NY] & Manchester [VT], visit family and watch cable telly. Dad rented a car from Enterprise and it was a nice, little Mazda. Mom and I toodled around in that while Dad utilized his car and worked at golf course. It was nice and relaxing to get away for several days.

Interesting article/link from Common Dreams website and UK Times ... check it out if you wish:

http://www.commondreams.org/headlines03/0523-03.htm

Another terrific article/link from BBC News Online regarding war media coverage:

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/in_depth/2982861.stm

Came across this link/article on the GREEN PARTY website and wanted to share it with you all. Check it out, if you wish:

http://www.gp.org/press/pr_05_13_03.html

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As promised awhile ago, here is my book review......

"The Eagles Shadow - Why America Fascinates & Infuriates the World"

By Mark Hertsgaard ... He's put out four other books, including "Earth Odyssey" and "On Bended Knee". Mark is first and foremost a journalist who's articles have appeared in New Yorker, Time, Newsweek, The Nation [current fav of mine], Die Zeit, Le Nouvel Observateur and many other worldwide publications. He's a featured lecturer at Harvard and Yale, plus a regular contributor to National Public Radio.

I first heard about this book and author after attending the awesome February 15th Peace Rally at UN here in NYC. While surfing the Internet I came across a great website called Booksense.com. The article and interview was quite fascinating and intriguing, really peaked my curiosity. Two months later I finally found "The Eagles Shadow" at Shakespeare & Co bookstore. Brilliant book ... informative, thought provoking and well researched. One that I highly recommend others to read. Remember that knowledge is power or enlightenment, especially if its utilized correctly and not abused.

"Americans rarely used to think about the outside world", says Hertsgaard and that statement is so true for about 50% of our nation. The media over the last 20 years or so doesn't help, as its more into sensationalism [ie: money profits] then truth, knowledge or vital issues. Hertsgaard gathered perceptions regarding America from people in 15 countries. Ranging from business leaders, teenagers or Islamic fundamentalists, these people felt both admiring of and uneasy about the US, also enchanted, bewildered, appalled and yes, even envy. In his book, Hertsgaard exposes uplifting, as well as uncomfortable truths that force Americans and foreigners alike to view this country with fresh open eyes. Read it today and you'll be glad you did.

Here are the lyrics to a terrific Pearl Jam song [Long Road] and seems to be appropriate [I think] for these days. . . . . .

and i wished for so long, cannot stay
all the precious moments, cannot stay
it's not like wings have fallen, cannot say
but without you something's missing, i cannot say yeah
holding hands are daughters and sons
and their faiths are falling down down down down
i have wished for so long
how i wish for you today
we all walk the long road, cannot stay
there's no need to say goodbye
all the friends and family
all the memories going round round round round
i have wished for so long
how i wish for you today
and the winds are blowin'
and the sky keeps turning grey
and the sun is setting
the sun will rise another day
i have wished for so long
how i wish for you today
how i wished for so long
how i wish for you today
we all walk the long road
(we all walk the long road)
we all walk the long road
(we all walk the long road)

Interesting BBC article on "Saving Private Lynch Story 'flawed'". Check it out:

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/programmes/correspondent/3028585.stm

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Another interesting BBC article on Democratic presidential hopefuls for the 2004 elections. ABB = Anybody But Bush!

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/americas/3017119.stm

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A snippet from the May 12th Green Party press release called "Revelation of Halliburton's Oil Distribution Deal Tops The Extensive List Of Bush's Wartime Lies"

[Greens also note that the White House and intelligence agencies are blocking the release of information about the September 11 terrorist attacks, delaying publication of a 900-page report from Congress on how the attacks happened. The blocked information includes details of early warnings received by the FBI, as well as testimony already published, such as the Phoenix memo.

"Why aren't these deceptions and evasions a major scandal and cause for investigation and prosecution?", asked Starlene Rankin, Lavender Green Caucus delegate to the national party. "Where's the outrage from the public and media? Why is perjury about oral sex cause for impeachment, but not perjury before Congress, the American people, and the U.N. about reasons for war? Why is the Democratic Party, except for a few vigilant Congressmembers like Henry Waxman, asleep in the passenger seat?"]

Here is the link:

http://www.commondreams.org/news2003/0512-07.htm

Came across this really good article on American versus British media today [ie: regarding Iraq war] on Common Dreams website. It is so true, one has to go elsewhere for good detailed news coverage, cause its just not happening here in the USA. Check it out ... if you wish:

http://www.commondreams.org/views03/0509-01.htm

Yesterday afternoon I was up in Yonkers doing my beloved volunteer work at ferret shelter. Aliza and Briana met me at the train station and we drove to shelter. Its great seeing them again and chatting. When we arrived Joanne was outside working on flowers in front and Harley was sitting in his doggie house. We talked for awhile about several things, one of which was the new 4-level cage Aliza purchased for her two furkids. Then Aliza and her daughter took off and I went indoors with Joanne. In the kitchen we caught up on "news" before going into shelter. Dear Bouncy Bear has been adopted, several new ferrets are in-house and one of the oldsters had to be put to sleep a week ago. In the shelter the first group of furkids were out ... the regulars whom I know well and love dearly [ie: Oliver, Sweet Pea, Emily, Big Willy & Spats]. While brushing their fur and cleaning their ears I put a large, empty Q-tip box on the floor. OMG! They went nuts over it. They dragged it all over the floor or tried to squeeze into it. Very amusing to observe their antics. Then it was time to put them back in their cages and go around filling up all the waterbottles. That done ... Joanne and I took out next group [10] of ferrets for play time. This included several newbies and one oldster. They too played with the Q-tip box. I brushed their fur and cleaned ears. Then it was time for a tea break with Joanne and a liberal discussion on politics. During this whole time her cat Mushy sat on my lap purring away. Back in the shelter we put away the furkids. I cleaned up poopy papers, mopped the floors and put down fresh papers, plus straightened up all the toys.

The last furkid to come out for his playtime has quite a "story" ... which I'll briefly relate. Hearing Joanne tell it damn near brought tears to my eyes. She said that two weeks ago a woman called her and said she'd found a ferret, in a park out in Forest Hills [Queens]. She was walking her dog when the pooch went to sniff a towel on the ground near a tree. She thought it might have a dead animal, but then a little ferret slowly poked its head out. The poor darling was thin, dirty, couldn't walk and very shaky. Joanne said the woman made several phone calls before being referred to her. The little three year old fella is doing better these days, tho not 100% and is slowly able to get around. Whomever the original cruel owners were, Joanne says they must of keep the wee one cooped up in a small cage on a 24/7 basis. Bastards! The little ferret is very friendly, doesn't bite, gives kisses, inquisitive and likes being held. He's such a darling. Soon Joanne plans on taking him to the vet for a thorough checkup. While there I brushed his fur and cleaned his ears. It was apparent that the previous owner didn't perform these duties. Makes me so mad to hear of people who are cruel to animals and innocent pets. Grrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr

Spent the rest of my Barnes & Noble gift card yesterday evening and picked up several cool books.

"I'm a Stranger here Myself" by Bill Bryson
"The Master & Margarita" by Mikhail Bulgakov

[Plus a pretty, blank journal to utilize as a record-keeper of my volunteer work at ferret shelter.]

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Everything I need to know about life, I learned from Noah's Ark......

One: Don't miss the boat.
Two: Remember that we are all in the same boat.
Three: Plan ahead. It wasn't raining when Noah built the Ark.
Four: Stay fit. When you're 600 years old, someone may ask you to do something really big.
Five: Don't listen to critics; just get on with the job that needs to be done.
Six: Build your future on high ground.
Seven: For safety's sake, travel in pairs.
Eight: Speed isn't always an advantage. The snails were on board with the cheetahs.
Nine: When you're stressed, float a while.
Ten: Remember, the Ark was built by amateurs; the Titanic by professionals.
Eleven: No matter the storm, when you are with God, there's always a rainbow waiting.

Really good article from Common Dreams website on the media verse protest marches. Check it out ... if you wish:

http://www.commondreams.org/views03/0507-06.htm

[Duchess note ... I will continue to participate in Peace Rallys and Protest Marches. I go to lend my support to a worthy cause and making my "free" voice heard. Whether the media covers the events or not, we must continue to go out there and fight for our democratic rights. Or we'll lose them to the evil, greedy, ruthless, destructive Bush Administration empire.]

Next on the agenda ... check out this link ... if you wish:

http://www.operationstrangelove.org/

[Be part of a national anti-war action on May 14th. Screen "Dr Strangelove" (Peter Sellers film from 1963) and raise money for groups still working hard for peace, justice and relief in Iraq.]

One of my bosses gave me a belated "Administrative Assistant Day" gift card [$50] to Barnes & Noble. WooHoo! During a late lunch I stopped by a B&N in Union Square and picked up two books. Still have $35 left on the card. Yeah!

The Buddhist Handbook by John Snelling
Daughters of Britannia - The Live & Times of Diplomatic Wives by Katie Hickman

More political news:

http://www.gp.org/documents/spoiled.html

Join the party that fights for democracy instead of empire, peace instead of endless war, working people instead of corporations, and the health of our planet!

The Green Party and its candidates take NO money from corporations.

On Sunday, May 4th, I joined my friend Debbie in going to see Cirque Du Soleil ["Varekai"] out on Randalls Island. Our tix were for the 5pm showing. Took subway up to 125th Street, where Debbie joined me and we got on special buses [$4 roundtrip] bound for Randalls Island. A short ride and a nice, sunny spring day. After leaving the bus we stroll, along with the crowd, to were the many yellow/blue stripe tents are situated. Then the usual procedure ... go thru security check, show ones tix, look at the merchandise, hit the bathroom and then find our seats. Its like a "one-ring" circus only there are no animal acts, delightful music and costumes are fantastic. Believe me, when I say, there isn't a bad seat in the whole venue. The show started shortly after 5pm, had one 20 minute break and ended close to 7:30pm. Amazing show! Fantastic! Visually appealing and all the performers were incredible. I highly recommend to all in seeing a Cirque Du Soleil show at least once in their lifetime. Worth the price of admission. No doubt about it.

A friend of mine sent me a terrific article ["My Country: The World"] by historian and author Howard Zinn. It can be viewed at:

http://www.commondreams.org/views03/0505-07.htm

Here is a quote from that article:

[Tom Paine used the word "patriot" to describe the rebels resisting imperial rule. He also enlarged the idea of patriotism when he said: "My country is the world. My countrymen are mankind."]

I've also finished the book by Mark Hertsgaard called "The Eagle's Shadow" and will have a review end of week. Stay tuned..............

Pearl Jam Concert Review
Albany, NY

Tuesday
April 29, 2003

Arrived into Albany, via Trailways bus, at 5pm. I checked into the Ramada Inn near the bus terminal at 5:30pm. Good thing I made reservations for a room way in advance, cause they are sold out, mostly with Pearl Jam fans. The room was on the 4th floor overlooking the thruway. Oh yeah, noise factor. Sigh! Freshened up then changed into my concert attire of jeans, sneakers and POLICE t-shirt. Then strapped on my fanny pack and grabbed my jeans vest before heading out to arena at 6:30pm. Yeah baby!

Strolled to arena and arrived at 6:45pm. What a mob scene outside! Ran into some cool Green Party dudes who were handing out Xerox copies of PEACE sign to any and all fans. I already had mine protected in plastic sheet and snuggly stashed in my fanny pack. Got to talking to one of the dudes about a few topics [ie: local cops, etc] and he gave me the number to contact Green Party here in NYC.

Went into Pepsi Arena and had no troubles with security check, plus the guard was young and so cute. ;-) After showing my tix I noticed the Pearl Jam goodie table and a huge line of fans. I was like, no way, too pricey for my humble wallet. Had a slice of pizza, which tasted like some icky frozen kind nuked. I was hungry, so figured what the hell. Yah know. Hit the bathroom, cause I refuse to leave during mid Pearl Jam gig to take a pee. By this time its 7:15pm and I go in search of my seat, which is 104 C 3. I could see the stage just fine from my seat. Totally different from what I experienced at Saratoga show back in August 2000.

Two gals [ie: Alexa & Cheryl] are in seats next to mine and we strike up a fun conversation. It’s their first Pearl Jam gig and my second. Cheryl is in her mid-30s, married with kids and Alexa is in college. They live way south of Albany and were nice gals.

At 7:30pm SPARTA comes on stage to do a so-so 45-minute set. Well folks, this band did nothing for me, though I must admit the drummer was pretty good and the bass player sucked. But hey, to each his own, yah know. I wore earplugs to tone down their noise. Took the roadies about 35 minutes to clear SPARTA stuff and do final setup of Pearl Jam equipment. By this time my stomach is doing flip-flops. Hell yeah, I’m getting that excited.

At around 8:50pm the lights dim, everyone jumps to their feet, screams and lots of applause as Pearl Jam hits the stage. WooHoo! I’ve got a piece of paper with me and pen to jot down the set list, plus other notes. Watched them come on stage, observing them closely, especially Mike AND Jeff. They all looked good and ready rock the arena. I was hoping they would start off set with LONG ROAD, but they jumped right into I AM MINE. After that they blasted into WHIPPING. Awesome! Jeff started in with some pogoing, but poor Mike was having trouble with either his guitars or pedal board. This unfortunate occurrence continued thru next few songs and kind of curbed his style. Next song was LAST EXIT, followed by an intense version of BLOOD. Ed raging into his mike and I thought his voice would go, but it didn’t. Next on set list was CROPDUSTER with Matt supplying the backup vocals. Then comes one of my fav songs DAUGHTER with several cool tags, one of which is ABITW by Pink Floyd. Mike is still having troubles, but is dealing with it and his roadie is doing all he can to resolve situation. Jeff, as always, is looking and sounding wonderful. I’m taking in the whole stage, but my main focus is on Jeff, Mike and Ed. In that order too. Through it all I’m happily dancing, bopping up and down, plus screaming “yeah baby”. The two gals next to me are also dancing and smiling. We be happy!

The arena has signs all over stating NO SMOKING and despite this people are lighting up cigarettes and joints. And damn security is doing nothing! The smell of the pot is slowly giving me a sinus headache. Damn!

Next song on Pearl Jam set list is another fav of mine – EVEN FLOW. Mike, Jeff and Ed do a jump during the song and Mike is the bomb with his solo. Wow! They follow with a fav song off their RIOT ACT cd called GHOST. This is one of Jeff’s songs and he does backup vocals. Sweet! Next is ELDERLY WOMAN, though Ed chats abit with crowd before singing that song. Audience really gets into this song, and then they do another RIOT ACT song called LOVE BOAT CAPTAIN and features Boom Gaspar [?] on keyboards. Awesome! Next is WISHLIST and I admit not one of my fav Pearl Jam songs, though at the end Ed does an interesting tag. Then they do a kick-ass version of SAVE YOU and the whole band is totally grooving. Then, to my surprise, they swing into ONCE.

Along this time both Cheryl and Alexa had to leave, as their ride is waiting for them outside. I told Cheryl, who is a Ten Club member, to order the CD boot online. That way she will hear the whole gig.

Next up a great version of CORDUROY with Jeff grooving all over the place, but mostly with his back to us, which affords me a nice view of his amazing shoulders and butt. What a fine looking man. Mike rips off a bitchin solo towards end. This is followed by BETTERMAN, which the audience sings along to and quite loudly. They end the first part of their set with a fantastic rendition of PORCH. They are really into it and if I remember correctly, Ed and Mike stroll around the whole stage waving to fans in the back. This really gets the whole audience jazzed.

They head off stage for a 7-minute or so break. This give me and hundreds of others in the crowd time to whip out our white 8x11 papers with PEACE sign on it. The Green Party asked us to hold these up when the band came back on stage for encore. Not only do I hold up mine and proudly I may add, but also several hundred fans do likewise.

The look on the guys faces as they gaze out to see so many PEACE signs is priceless. Ed says something about peace, and then Jeff strolls over to mention something in Ed’s ear. Also, at this time, Ed spots someone in audience and brings up on stage. She is a young, petite gal who shakes hands with all the band members, but hugs Stone. I’m thinking lucky girl, but also what’s wrong with her. Hug Stone? Fuck that – go for the good stuff and hug Jeff. Oh well. Then Ed introduces her to the crowd [name is Rachel], asks her to hold a piece of paper and be a human music stand, which she does. One could tell she was nervous but happy. After the band finishes a great rendition of Patti Smith song called PEOPLE HAVE THE POWER, Rachel hands Ed her small camera. He takes pix of her with Stone, then Mike & Jeff and finally with Matt. Whoa! After she leaves the stage, Ed and band do a cute improv about how Rachel came to show and wished for world peace. Definitely a highlight to the evening. DO THE EVOLUTION follows this and then another fav song of mine GIVEN TO FLY. Audience is so into the show, me too, lots of energy. Then Ed says the next song is being performed for first time on NA Tour [or something like that] and they do ALL OR NONE. Sounds good too.

OMG! They follow that with an amazing version of ALIVE. I’m singing and dancing. Love it all! Throughout the whole encore Jeff is wowing us with great jumps and pogoing all over. A joy to watch. The final song of the gig is The Who’s BABA O’RILEY. Ed is whipping up frenzy on tambourines, Jeff dances a little Irish jig near Mike, and Matt is a powerhouse on drums. Towards end of song Ed runs around the whole parameter of stage, not once, but twice and flings tambourines to the crowd. Mike throws out guitar picks by the dozen. The guy’s finish the song to cheers from audience, they wave goodnight and Ed says goodbye. Awesome two hour show, though I’m wondering why no second encore. Doesn’t take long to exit the arena and walk back to Ramada Inn. The air feels so cool and fresh.

And there you have my lengthy review.

Did everyone remember that Wednesday, April 23rd was Administrative/Professional Day. Hum?!? Well, the company I work for did remember and sent all us wonderful Admin's a nice gift. Received a small box of Godiva chocolates, plus an American Express gift certificate. With this gift certificate, on Thursday, I went to the local bookstore [Shakespeare & Company] to purchase a few tomes. I ended up with two books I've been wanting for sometime:

"Ferret Chronicles - Rescue Ferrets At Sea" by Richard Bach
"The Eagle's Shadow - Why America Fascinates & Infuriates the World" by Mark Hertsgaard

I just finished the first book yesterday and loved it. Richard Bach [famed author of the book "Jonathan Livingston Seagull"] has this delightful series out called "Ferret Chronicles" and its inspired by his own beloved pet furkids. He's got ten of them! Lucky guy! "Rescue Ferrets at Sea" is the first in the series and last year I purchased the second book of the series [Air Ferrets Aloft}. Both are delightful books for teens on up to adults. Anyone who loves ferrets ... then get these books. The next book in the series is called "Rancher Ferrets on the Range". I've seen it in Barnes & Noble and hope to pick it up soon.

The second book I purchased with my "gift certificate" was by Mark Hertsgaard. About a month or so ago I read a cool, fascinating interview with him on Booksense.com. He was promoting his new book called "The Eagles Shadow". I started reading this last evening and so far its great. Hard to explain it now, but after I'm done reading it I'll write up a review and post it here. If your wondering if the book has a political theme ... yes ... it does.

Today I participated, along with several other co-workers [ie: Laurie & Heather], in the annual March of Dimes Walk America. The weather today is a lovely, perfect Spring day. Great for walking and walk we did, about 6 miles. Received lots of free goodies AND got to briefly meet Joe Namath [brilliant football player from 1960s/70s]. Good ole Broadway Joe has been an honorary celebrity chairman of the March of Dimes for years. Wish I'd brought my camera, so as to get a pix with him. Oh well.....................

On that note ... gotta split ... remember to keep rocking in the free world!

Check this out ... if you wish ... if not ... that's okay too. Found this little political tidbit on a Pearl Jam chat room [Sony-BBS] today and it claims to be from music artist MOBY.

****************************************************************************

Question for you from Moby Posted: Apr 23, 2003 2:26 PM

ok, here's a little question for you...

how would the republican leadership deal with a democratic president who:

a-had been a cheerleader in school.
b-was a documented draft dodger.
c-had been arrested for public drunkenness.
d-had lost the election by 600,000 votes, but was president after being installed by his fathers friends in the supreme court.
e-had been best friends with the ceo of the corporation involved with the biggest instance of corporate fraud EVER.
f-had invited the perpetrators of the aforementioned fraud to the white house to set policy.
g-had long standing family ties with saudi arabia and the bin laden family.
h-allowed a private jet to fly around the united states after september 11 to pick up members of the bin laden family and return them to saudi arabia without being questioned by the fbi.
i-had presided over the steepest drop in the stock market and the greatest rise in unemployment figures of any president in the last 60 years.
j-bombed afghanistan looking for osama bin laden and never found him.
k-bombed iraq looking for saddam hussein and weapons of mass destruction and found neither.
l-proposed a 700 billion $ tax break for the wealthiest americans and planned on paying for it by cutting money to the police, fire departments, education, etc.
m-had members of his administration who had long standing ties to racist and white-supremacist organizations.
n-had a vice president who had been in business with the bin laden family.

And so on. How would the republicans and the conservative media deal with george bush jr. if he were a democrat? They would roast him alive and would probably impeach him. I write this as a reminder that:

1-the democratic party in the united states is pathetic for not drawing more attention to the fact that bush and his cabinet are corrupt and inept.
2-george bush jr. is still a terrible president with a terrible record. don't forget. especially when it comes time to vote in the next presidential election.

thanks,
moby

************************************************************************************

p.s. In a non-political comment ... I'm participating in the annual March of Dimes "Walk America" this Sunday here in NYC. Hope the weather is halfway decent. I'll be joining some of my E&Y co-workers and having a good time. If you know someone who is participating in this worthy cause, please make a donation or participate yourself. Make a difference and you'll be happy you did. Peace!

Have received some unpleasant news today regarding my Duchess website. No, not my blogger online journal, but my website called "Tea, Tales & Travel with the Duchess". If I wish to continue to utilize the services of that particular site, I'll have to pay for it, as of May 4th it'll no longer be free. DAMN!!!! Now I have to look for a new, free service for the Duchess page. This sucks!! In the meantime, I've saved all the info from my site, so it'll be easy to "set up" a new page elsewhere. Geez!

Anyhow ... enough ranting for now. Below is a listing of links to websites that I read or check out on a regular basis. There related to current events regarding democracy, war in Iraq, freedom of speech, etc, etc. Definitely check them out............

http://www.nonviolence.org/vitw/

Http://www.unitedforpeace.org/

http://www.moveon.org/

http://www.workers.org/

http://www.internationalanswer.org/

http://www.notinourname.net/

http://www.commondreams.org/

http://www.copvcia.com/

http://www.wbai.org/

http://www.progressive.org

http://www.thenation.com

Some of these links have been shared with me by good friends and others I've located via articles or scanning the Internet. Quite a wealth of info, facts and truth.

Remember to keep rocking in the free world or what's left of it. Peace!

Back on Sunday, April 13th, we had another lovely spring day here in NYC. Took my camera and headed off to Central Park for a leisurely stroll. It seemed like everyone was out and about. Naturally the horse & carriage rides were doing a booming business with the tourists. It felt soooo good to be out, walking leisurely and feeling the sun on ones face. Considering we had a snowstorm only 6 to 7 days before. Weird! Then on April 15th and 16th the weather got alot warmer ... up in the 80s and plenty of sunshine. One didn't need a coat cause it felt like summer. Oops ... I'm rambling again ... anyhow ... back to April 13th. After strolling around the southern part of Central Park, I walked down 6th Avenue to 50th Street and Rockefeller Center [Radio City Music Hall]. That weekend the annual Orchid Show was being held in the Rockefeller Center councourse. For years it was always held at the World Trade Center, but since 9/11 its been relocated to midtown. I took lots of pictures of dozens of beautiful flowers and arrangements. Breath-taking, fantastic and yes, even sensual! The show was also very crowded with New Yorkers and tourists.

Recently read an article by Norman Solomon on "Common Dreams News Center" website. Mr Soloman was talking about one of America's most revered writers ... Mark Twain ... in connection with todays current events. Here are some quotes from the article:

[Mark Twain was painfully aware of many people's inclination to go along with prevailing evils. When slavery was lawful, he recalled, abolitionists were "despised and ostracized and insulted" ... by "patriots". As far as Twain was concerned, "Loyalty to petrified opinion never yet broke a chain or freed a human soul."]

["Who are the oppressors? The few: the king, the capitalist and a handful of other overseers and superintendents. Who are the oppressed? The many: the nations of the earth; the valuable personages; the workers; they that make the bread that the soft-handed and idle eat."]

[What Mark Twain had to say is all too relevant to what's happening these days. But policymakers in Washington can rest easy. Twain's most inflammatory writings are smoldering in his grave ... while few opportunities exist for the general public to hear similar views expounded today. "None but the dead are permitted to speak truth," Twain remarked. Even then, evidently, their voices tend to be muffled.]

And finally, one of my favorite Mark Twain quotes ... "I am an anti-imperialist. I am opposed to having the eagle put its talons on any other land."

Has it been a whole week since my last post?!? I meant to do some posting earlier, but it was a good, productive work week and I put in over two hours of paid overtime. That is always a nice perk. Let's see ... on to some news:

Back on Sunday, April 6th, I did volunteer work for the 18th annual MS Walk. This is my 10th year in either participating in the walk or doing volunteer work. Sunday dawned a cool, windy, but sunny day. I dressed in layers, put on gloves and my sneakers, then headed to Cadman Plaza in Brooklyn. Got there, via two subways, at exactly 12 noon to find the tables had already been set up by other volunteers. So I helped with putting the rest of the free goodies on the tables for when the walkers come thru. Cadman Plaza, in Brooklyn Heights, marks the second rest stop along the 12 mile route and there are a total of three. Some of the volunteers I'd worked with in past years and their a fun bunch. Some of the free goodies we handed out to the walkers were oranges, bottled water & fruit juices, cookies, chips, raisins and sports bars. After the last walker came thru we proceeded to pack everything up in the waiting van while noshing on free Subway sandwiches. Us volunteers also received free MS Walk t-shirts and whatever leftover goodies we could carry home with us. I had a little satchel of oranges, cookies, sports bars and bottled water. Yeah! Overall it was a good day.

Today I went up to Yonkers Ferret Shelter to do my usual volunteer work. Which I always enjoy ... love those furkids. It was good seeing Joanne again and when I came in she was in the process of feeding baby squirrels. [four weeks old] They are soooo cute. While there two of new, young female shelter ferrets tried to bite me. I'm like ... what the hell did I do wrong. Joanne assured me I didn't do anything wrong, its just that those two came into shelter as known "biters". Tho, she says, they are getting better over time and with socializing. One of the older furkids I had to give a bath, as he was abit stinky. Joanne also informed me that dear Bouncy Bear may be adopted this coming week. I'll miss the little critter with his playful, perky personality. [The weather was delightful today. After all that cool, windy rainy crap we got a warm, sunny, blue sky day. Lovely!]

As you know, I've been talking about war and politics for last month or so. Well, this is still a free country and I'll continue to sprout my views on these topics. The latest are not my thoughts, but by others and I wanted to share some tidbits with you all. In the April 4th edition of THE RECORD-REVIEW the Reverend Doctor Bill Weisenbach [First Presbyterian Church of Katonah] wrote an article in the "guest column" of this newspaper. The title of the article was "Let Us Not Disparage Those Who Disagree". Here is one of his comments:

"Protest is healthy, not scary. Remember, our nation is the result of protest. And where do you think the word 'Protestant' comes from! In the last month we have heard commentators argue that protest against the war is wrong, during the war and even after the war. Not so ... Protest is our heritage and a mark of freedom."

Amen reverend amen!!

Recently, I received an email from a friend [merci beaucoup Josee] of mine in Ottawa, Canada. It was an article from the "Ottawa Express" [independent newspaper] by James Sinclair called "Winning the War of Words". I wanted to share some tidbits from it with you all.

"With another war in Iraq comes a new campaign to win our hearts and minds. And as in any propaganda campaign, semantics are crucial. Decoding and understanding the terminology used by the military and the media can be a daunting task. To assist you, FRONTLINE spoke to some propaganda experts to define the new war lexicon. COALITION FORCES ... The good guys, right? This term, 'creates consensus where one does not exist,' says Jonathan Rose, a professor of political science at Queen's University. Many of the 40 or so countries that form the supposed coalition were brought onside by the expectation of U.S. aid, adds Randal Marlin [Carleton University]. Buying legitimacy must be the next best thing to going through the legalities of the UN. 'Coalition' sounds better than 'unilateral'. OPERATION IRAQI FREEDOM ... Straight-up doublespeak. Along the same lines as 'Operation Just Cause,' these phrases are used as slogans by the media to promote the war, says Rose. This particular phrase implies that the US war is to liberate Iraq, same as the last Gulf War was all about liberating Kuwait. Whats not said, however, is that Iraqis will not be liberated from a US-imposed future, says Marlin. 'Its a matter of trading slavery for domination by the US,' he says. That's of course for Iraqis who survive the war."

Okay ... enough politics from this lady for one day. As I've said in the past ... if you wish to read my thoughts and/or comments on Gulf War ... great ... if not ... thats okay too. I won't be offended. One has the right to freedom of speech, thought and action.

Press Release Statement from Pearl Jam
Thursday April 3, 2003 @ 8:00 pm ET

OKLAHOMA CITY, April 3 /PRNewswire/ -- There were close to 12,000 people at the April 1st Denver show. It's possible two dozen left during encore but it was not noticeable amongst the 11,976 who were loudly applauding and enjoying the evening's music. It just made a better headline to report otherwise. [You'll note the writer doesn't mention this in his review of the show from the day prior. See "Pearl Jam Show Will Make a Great CD" by Mark Brown, Rocky Mountain News. And it is little more than a mention in any of the show reviews.] Dissension is nothing we shy away from -- it should just be reported about more accurately. Ed's talk from the stage centered on the importance of freedom of speech and the importance of supporting our soldiers, as well as an expression of sadness over the public being made to feel as though the two sentiments can't occur simultaneously.

[Just me expressing my democratic right to freedom of speech, thought and action. The tidbit below is from "Vote to Impeach Bush" website. If you disagree, then don't read on, but if you do, then read on and take action.]

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Thanks to the outpouring of support from founding supporters of the VoteToImpeach movement, the first full page ad of the impeachment campaign was placed in the New York Times on March 19 - Bush's ultimatum day - in the front section of the paper, page A23.

The political impact of the New York Times was far-reaching. The circulation of the New York Times extends all over the country and all over the world. In turn, the response of people across the country to the ad was magnificent. The office was flooded with thousands of letters from people who filled out a VoteToImpeach ballot. Tens of thousands more immediately went on line and voted to impeach Bush, Cheney, Rumsfeld and Ashcroft for their criminal conduct in waging a war of aggression against the people of Iraq, wantonly sacrificing the lives of U.S. servicemen and women, and for the assault on our civil rights and civil liberties at home.

The VoteToImpeach newspaper ad campaign is expanding.

With your help, we are now seeking to place the full page ad in the San Francisco Chronicle in the next week. If you can, please help this to happen by making an online donation at http://www.votetoimpeach.org/donate.htm

Also check out this website for intelligent, progressive, balanced views on current and/or world events:

http://www.thenation.com/

Damn … has it been almost two weeks since my last entry?!? Geez! Naughty me!

Well, lets see if I can correct that today. Okay … where to begin. Hum. . . . . . .

First of all … back on March 22nd, I went to the Protest March, which started in Times Square and headed down Broadway to Washington Square Park. It was a gorgeous day out and felt very Spring-like. Got off the subway at Rockefeller Center and walked over from there. Got all the way to Broadway and 42nd Street was stopped there at intersection by a wall of cops. The protesters were on the other side of intersection, surrounded by barricades and heading down Broadway. At that moment, it all seemed frustrating, so I started talking to a chap standing there with a blue flag [world on it] on a poll. It was rather pretty.

We were there for about 15 minutes or so observing the action around us. Times Square, even without a protest march, is still a busy area on Saturdays. At one point I notice three teens [with small protest banners], their mother and an elderly chap in a wheel chair asking the cops how to get to march. Cops were sending people down to 6th Avenue. Way too far. So this group left and I nonchalantly kept them under observation. Next thing I know, there across the street and thru a small opening in barricades to the march. So I said to the chap I was talking to … roll up your flag cause we’re moving into action. Walked about a 100 yards or so down towards 6th Avenue, crossed the street while traffic was stopped at light, strolled down opposite sidewalk and casually thru the small opening in barricade. Voila!

At this point I turned to my companion and rather belatedly introduced myself. His name is Michael, about my age and works in film/music industry. At this point it’s about 12:20pm. So roughly over the next two hours Michael and I hung out at the march. What a turnout of people! It was awesome! Along the way, we talked to lots of different people, general observations, read the many banners/signs, buy buttons/pins and took some photos. Plus Michael and I talked between us on many different topics. I found myself really liking this man and quite frankly was attracted to him. Before parting ways I asked Michael for his phone number, which he gladly gave me and he asked me for mine. At about 2:15pm we’d gotten as far as 36th Street & Broadway, when I had to leave and make my way to Grand Central Station.

At GCS I had some sushi for a late lunch and purchased my train ticket to Yonkers. Caught the 2:53pm to Yonkers where Aliza and her daughter Briana picked me up. From there we went to Joanne’s home [ferret shelter] … as we’d been invited [amongst others] to celebrate her 60th b-day. We got there at about 3:30pm and Joanne was already there. So much for the surprise, yah know. Despite that it was a fun party and I met some really cool people. Joanne’s daughter Liz and a friend [Maggie] organized it all. Did a good job! At the party one could have soda or wine; naturally I chose the latter, plus nibbled on some taste food and later on some yummy desserts. A few days before I whipped up some homemade cookies and brought those with me for the festivities. While socializing I also went into the shelter to visit the furkids, play with some and fill up their water bottles. There all such darlings and most were busy snoozing. Finally, sometime around 6pm, Joanne sat down in the living room to open all her presents. She received lots of lovely items. I purchased a small, charming book called “Pets Letters to God”. Around 7pm Aliza took her daughter to her fathers and came back to Joanne’s place. We hung out until 8:30pm or so, when I noticed the time and said I had a train to catch. Missed the 8:49pm train to NYC, so I hung out at Aliza’s place for a while before catching the 9:49pm train. While at her place I played with her two adorable furkids … Vanilla and Chocolate. One is an albino and the other a dark sable. Got home that evening a little after 11pm. Overall it was a terrific day!

On Monday, March 24th, I received a phone call from Michael, the chap I’d met on Saturday. What a delightful surprise! We talked for about 15 minutes and he asked me out for dinner/drinks on Thursday. Naturally I said yes. We also exchanged email addresses and said he’d try to call me in a day or so. On Wednesday we connected again by phone and finalized plans for following evening. On March 27th I met him at the Starbucks, which is next door to my building, at 5:20pm. From there we had a great evening … drinks at Mercantile Grill, sushi dinner at Taste Of Tokyo and ending the evening at Delmonico’s Grill for tea/coffee and dessert. The whole time talking about many things and getting cozy. Got home at 11pm. I really like this man and hope to see more of him. Stay tuned........

Well folks, that is about it, for now. I think I’ve prattled on long enough, yah know. More news next time. . . . .

The website listed below is regarding a petition to impeach Bush. If you feel strongly about all the issues going on at this time and want to lend your support, then check out the URL Make it known that as a law-abiding American you are displeased with the Bush Administration.

http://www.votetoimpeach.org/

Happy St Patty’s Day! Erin Go Braugh!

OMG! The first day of spring is just around the corner. And we’ve been feeling some of its glory within the last week or so. Good thing too, cause its been a long, harsh winter and the warmth of the sunshine is a soothing balm. The first signs of spring hit us here in NYC last weekend, March 8th & 9th. It put me in the mood to do some Spring Cleaning. Did all sorts of stuff from cleaning windows to washing bed comforters [blankets]. It was an energizing experience. This past weekend was also very nice outside and felt damn good to walk about in it.

Speaking of this past weekend … I went to the annual Triple Pier Antique Show yesterday. It’s located on the Westside of midtown Manhattan [piers 88 thru 92]. Huge display’s of antique items to look upon or purchase. Everything from books, linens, toys, furniture, clothing, jewelry and so on. Every year I noticed at least one item that seems to be HOT. Well, this time around its ladies handbags from the 1940s up to 1970s. All types of styles, sizes, and materials … you name it. I did not purchase anything this year [though was tempted] … as I’m trying to keep a watchful eye on my wallet.

Yesterday evening I participated in a Candlelight Vigil for peace in my neighborhood park. It was held from 6pm to 8pm and many people brought their children too. The total of peaceful protestors against an upcoming war with Iraq numbered about 50. I met several interesting folk [i.e.: Don, Barbara, Jennifer, Tom, etc] and had stimulating conversations on current world topics. Most people agreed that it feels like we’re heading towards a George Orwell society. And that’s not good. Check out these web sites on how you too can become involved.

http://www.moveon.org/

http://www.unitedforpeach.org/

http://www.internationalanswer.org/

NO BLOOD FOR OIL!!

Have several things to chat about today and will do it in segments.

First segment ... check out this cool FM radio station called WBAI [99.5]. Especially on Monday nights ["Homefries"] from 9pm to 11pm, tho the rest of the week is cool too.

Second Segment ... The Yahoo Group I belong to called "inrockwetrust" is looking for new Pearl Jam fans to join. Swing on by and check out a fun, interesting group of Pearl Jam fans. [If your picked as MOTM you'll receive free goodies from the groups founders.] We chat about everything from our fav band, books, movies, music, current world events and even the weather. Its a blast! Here is the URL:

http://www.groups.yahoo.com

You can also access via a link on my Duchess website:

http://dreamwater.net/duchess38/

Third Segment ... If you live near Missoula, MT then check out this college radio station [KBGA]. Hum ... so you don't live near Montana, well then you can check out this cool radio station's website at:

http://www.kbga.org

Especially a great program on every morning from 8am to 11am EST. [Hosted by a cool e-pal of mine] This Monday, March 10th, they'll be playing music associated with Jeff Ament [Pearl Jam] ... since its his 40th b-day. WooHoo!

Fourth Segment ... Did volunteer work at the Yonkers ferret shelter this past saturday and as always, an awesome experience. Did all the usual duties and I never think of them as chores. Being around the furkids is always an interesting, fun, soothing theraputic experience. Since my last visit in early February, several furkids had come into the shelter and then promptly got adopted. Many of my favorites [ie: Oliver, Sweet Pea, Big Willy, Emily & Spats] are still there and just as adorable as always. During my tea break with Joanne ... she gave me a lovely one-year anniversary gift. So sweet and thoughtful of her. Oh my gosh ... has a year gone by already?!?

What a flurry of phone activity early Friday evening in obtaining Pearl Jam tix. [These were "pre-sale" tix & passwords were obtained via Krock, as well as other sources.] They'll be starting their North American tour in early April, then a break in May, followed by more gigs in June and ending the tour at Madison Square Garden in early July. Going to my first gig in two months up in Albany, NY and then the two MSG shows. Yahoo! I'm so excited! Many thanks to those who helped me with tix ... hugs and lots of my homemade rumballs to Michelle [MT], Josee [Ottawa] and dear Michelle [my brothers main squeeze]. Also ... thanks to Erica in TX and Kerensa at 10 Club. You ladies totally rock! It'll be Pearl Jam party time, in July, when a whole group of us converge here in NYC. Natually I'll be reporting all the details here in my journal.

Lets see ... any other news ... well ... the usual stuff going on ... such as sessions with my personal trainer, work, shopping, chiropractor visits, etc, etc. This coming saturday I'll be heading up to Yonkers to do my volunteer work at ferret shelter. Looking forward to seeing the furkids again.

Yeah, I know, this is a short entry. I'm trying to focus, but its damn difficult when one is hungry. Just noticed the time and no wonder I'm itching for food. Its past 1pm! Okay ... I'm outta here ... time to purchase some grub. Later....................Peace!

Oh My Gosh! Got a day off from work yesterday due to the blizzard that whipped thru our area and dumped 20 inches of snow. WooHoo!

Called my office voicemail late Sunday night and they said office would be closed on Monday. Hurray!! I woke up anyway at 6am on Monday, looked out the window and it was fiercely wicked outside. Checked my office voicemail again ... nothing ... sweet. Went back to my warm bed and slept until 8am. Got up and called my parents to see how their doing. All is okay and Dad heard back from the doctor about his colon test [ie: to see if he had cancer] and he's in the clear. This is a huge relief ... not only to Dad, but rest of family too. Mom had to go in later that morning to her foot doctor for surgery. Removal of a small, non-cancerous tumor under her big toe nail. Yeah, I know, yucksville. Their news made me feel better, as I was quite anxious for the results. If it was your parents, you'd be too.

Anyhow ... after chatting briefly with them I threw on layers of clothes et al and went outside for about 5 to 10 minutes. Yah know ... to see what it all looked like while the blizzard raged on. Well, let me tell you, it was bitterly cold ... 5 foot high snowdrifts and fierce winds. Mon dieu! Not much activity going on ... just a few people shoveling their areas or idiots trying to drive their SUVs thru a foot of snow. Geez!

Back indoors I took off all those layers and warmed up with a cup of herbal tea, plus homemade pancakes. Yum! Did lots of puttering around the apartment throughout the day, phone calls with friends, cooking, emails, reading, painting, listen to music, take out garbage, emergency run to grocery store and chatting with my neighbors. Called my friend Sarah in Toronto, but she wasn't home, so I left a message with her brother. Looking thru my address book I came across Pat C's name. We've known each other since 1981, when we hung out at BARNUM. [Broadway show starring Jim Dale.] Those were fun days. Pat and I email or snail mail each other, but haven't spoken on the phone in ages. Got her number via information and called her. We had a great conversation on a number of topics. Finally crawled off to bed around 11pm and had to deal with a slow commute to work this morning. I hope it improves before I head out of here in 1/2 hour. Off to the gym to work off some steam doing some intense cardio. Today I called Josee in Quebec to chat about Pearl Jam and other topics. Plus I received a parcel from Andrea with Pearl Jam goodies. Yahoo!!

Gotta jet ... time to do travel plans for one of my bosses. Peace on Earth!

Oh my god! Amazing experience yesterday!

I participated in my first Peace Rally ever! Yeah, I know, starting abit late at my age. But ... yah know ... what the hell! You don't have to be young or in college to participate in a protest or rally. No way! If you feel very strongly about something, well then, go out and participate or volunteer with a particular organization. There were all ages there yesterday. Folks with their children, as well as people on up thru their 60s. All race's and religions too. Had a interesting conversation [while waiting on line for bathroom in Mexican restaurant] with a small group of Buddists [co-ed]. Also met up with a really nice couple [David & Carolyn] from MA [about 60 years of age] who basically took me under their wing. They met at a protest during Nixon's 1972 inauguration and been involved in events ever since then. Mostly conversed with Carolyn and her personality is so infectious, bubbly and sincere. I orginally started out on 3rd Avenue and 52nd Street at 11:45am. Already there was a huge gathering and we were walking uptown. At 3rd Avenue near 56th or 57th Street the cops pulled back the barricades to let us cross to 2nd Avenue. While walking down the residental street students were chanting "who owns the street" and the response from all was "we do". Then we headed up 2nd Avenue and stopped at 63rd Street. We refused to budge until finally the cops opened up the barricades and we marched down towards 1st Avenue. It was amazing and the spirit of it all was very high, despite it being bitterly cold. Down the avenue, near 58th Street, we viewed a huge video screen, which was displaying the speakers at 50th & 1st Avenue platform. Some gals near us had huge boomboxes atop their heads. From the boomboxes a radio station was broadcasting it all live. [The speeches were all very inspiring.] There was OVER 200,000 people on 1st, 2nd and 3rd Avenues within a 20 block stretch. All I can say is WOW!!!!!!! Give peace a chance and dump Bush's government. Eat some duct tape you goddamn twisted cowboy!!

Check out ... http://www.unitedforpeace.org/

[Say NO to an America bent on destruction of the UN. And YES to an America committed to work with international institutions, appointed to improving them to the betterment of the world and the achievement of peace. Say NO to war with Iraq, with or without UN blessings. Say YES to containment, negotiation and disarmament.]

First of all ... remember that fella [Michael] I mentioned in last post ... forget about him. Never heard from him after he asked me for my phone number. Well, yah know, its his loss not mine. Men are always saying us gals are fickle and I'm inclined to think its the other way around. Anyhow ... enough on that dead-end topic.

Had an interesting, as well as amusing encounter Saturday evening. Was heading home from Manhattan around 7pm Saturday night ... when only 100 yards from my apartment building I ran into my upstairs neighbor [John]. He was walking towards me on the sidewalk after chatting with another neighbor. I could tell he'd had a few drinks, but seemed to be in a jovial mood. He was! I said "Hi John, how the hell are you dude"? He was like "hey hey, whats up"? I told him I was heading home to make some dinner and get out of the cold. John asked me what kind of dinner and I said a nice tossed salad. Well, that didn't sit to well with him. And proceeded to tell me that his live-in lady love and her granddaughter [Ashley is 8] were ordering Chinese food. He didn't want any of that and was going to get some Italian food. Before I knew what was happening, he took my arm and led me in opposite direction towards a nice Italian place. I tried to protest [ie: lack of funds, etc] ... but he wouldn't hear it and said "I'm treating you to dinner, since we've been good neighbors all these years". 17 to be exact. We had a fun time [totally platonic], many laughs, gossip, bitch about neighbors or world news and ate some decent food. We strolled back to our apartment building and respective apartments around 9:30pm. John is a character with a good heart and has always been a good neighbor to me.

Recently ran into one of my gym pals who was excited about an upcoming Peace Rally at the UN this Saturday. I'm very much against a war with Iraq and dislike Bush. Whom I think is a narrow-minded, stupid, smug, arrogant little shithead. I've been wanting to become more involved with protests and rallies for some time now, due to this Afghan and Iraq situation. Allyn [gym pal] will be calling me Friday night with all the particulars. Don't know what to expect, but I'm jumping in feet first.

Another couple of busy weeks at work, as well as a few social commitments et al, have kept me from making entries into my journal. Well, at least the weather isn't as bitterly cold as it has been. Wicked weather back in January ... burrrrrrrrrrrrrrr.

Have some free time and will convey a quick summary of latest events. Just recently started corresponding with a new fella and he sounds great. We haven't met yet, but from our few email exchanges, well folks, he sounds marvelous and I like his photo too. :-)

My friend Anni had a sweet, healthy, little baby girl [Rachel] on Tuesday, January 28th. She called me a few days after the event to briefly chat. Anni sounds happy, says the baby is sooo cute, her hubby a proud Papa and she's looking forward to going home. My co-worker [Lyra] is still out of office on short-term disability and we hope she'll be back in office on Feb 17th. She is due to have her baby in early March.

The office situation is abit improved from when I last made an entry on Jan 19th. That overly demanding, pain in the ass executive now has a different secretary and at a different location. Amen!

About 1 1/2 weeks ago I learned that Pearl Jam tix would be available via the 10 Club. These are special tix for fans and are usually situated within the first 10 rows at gigs. Yeah baby ... right there ... up close and personal. We members have to send separate money orders and state which gigs/dates we want. At first I was soooo excited about this news and calling PJ friends [emailing too]. Then the bad news ... I'd forgotten to renew my membership with the club back in October 2002. Oh my god! I was so upset about that and in tears. Made phone calls, sent emails and things seem to be resolved. So many wonderful, supportive friends who listened to my rants and helped me to work things out. I am so looking forward to meeting Josee and Michelle in July. Their coming to NYC to visit me and go to two PJ shows. I'll also get to meet up with Cynthia, Andrea, Erica and hopefully Sarah. Pearl Jam's first gig on their "Riot Act" tour begins this Saturday in Australia, then goes to Japan, followed by a break and then doing an extensive USA tour. WooHoo!

This past Saturday, February 1st, I went up to Yonkers and the ferret shelter. Always a joy getting to see the furkids. Several had been adopted since my last visit and Joanne mentioned at least four orphans coming in this week. Also got to see my new friend Aliza and her daughter Briana. They didn't have little Vanilla with them, as they'd just come from religious school & temple. While at the shelter they did adopt another ferret, as a cagemate for Vanilla, and christened this fella Chocolate.

At 6:30pm I have a session with my personal trainer and again on Thursday evening.

Yeah, yeah, its a short entry and I do apologize. Just noticed the time and need to wrap things up before I split. Peace!

Why is it ... when dealing with "dating services" like Yahoo Personals or Match.com ... guys will write to you for abit and then disappear. [I guess if a gal doesn't ask them out or start talking about sex, they lose interest. Geez!] Or, they'll give you their number and say "call me ... now". I'll give them my number and say a lady never calls a gent the "first time". Then I never hear from them ever again. Or they claim they called and I know damn well they didn't. Sigh! Dating standards have really soured over the years. Yah know. I feel if a chap is really interested in you then he'll make that first phone call and treat a lady with respect. Right?!? I mean, the chap wrote to me first, so he must be interested. Seems like there are lot of chaps out there who don't want to persue a gal and rather she do all the work. Well folks, that is not right. The few times I have persued a chap in the past [years ago] they turn around and treat me like crap. Now your probably thinking its the younger fella's who are behaving in this fashion. Yes and no! I'm talking about men my own age or five years older! Sad ... very sad. Sorry for the rant ... but I'm PMSing and needed to get this little angst off my chest. Okay ... I feel somewhat better now. Did I mention its bitterly cold outside and the wind just rips right through yah. Burrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr

As I sit here sipping a Caramel Apple Cider drink from Starbucks and reflect on the last two hectic weeks at work, as well as personal commitments. I'm thankful that I work for a corporation these days that really cares and supports its employees. Their not spitting out empty phrases ... they back up what they say with truth and action. Last time I made an entry things were fine and motoring along smoothly. On January 7th the other secretary in my office fell on ice while coming into work that morning. Your wondering ... is this a major concern. Yes ... it is when that secretary is 7 months preggers. In the early afternoon she left the office to rush to the hospital, as the labor process started to kick in. Not good. Doctors managed to stop that and the gals been on bed rest ever since then. So, in the meantime, I've been taking care of her executives. You would think this wouldn't be a problem and your right. Except that one of the executives is a f--king pain in the ass! Good thing he doesn't work in this office much and is on the road alot. Cause if he was I'd have chucked him out our 25th floor windows some time ago. Need I say more? I didn't think so. On the 10th there was a 2 hour meeting I had to attend regarding major office structural et al changes that will take place March thru May. While on the subject of work ... the big and unpleasant news happened on the morning of the 15th. I came into work and two of my co-workers are sitting in reception area with upset looks on their faces. Plus the doors are wide open and I hear all sorts of noices coming from our large conference room area. This does not bode well. What happened is that the "private executive" bathroom on the floor above us clogged up during the evening before from someones "large load". Basically the water from the toilet ran down threw airducts et al for 9 hours and really made a HUGE watery mess on five floors. Since we're right under the f--ker, we got the most water dumped on half of our office. Not a pretty sight. Especially with it running into our expensive datacenter. The cleanup and repair work went on thru yesterday. The combined two weeks I clocked in about 5 to 6 hours of "paid" overtime. Okay ... enough work talk and on to more interesting, fun stuff.

On January 11th I visited my good friend Katherine in CT. I took her out to lunch, we exchanged Xmas gifts, catch up on news and did some shopping. Her daughters were out and about, so I left their Xmas gifts under the Xmas tree in their livingroom. Had a fun chat with Katherine's brother Al. On the 12th I joined a friend in going to see "Harry Potter & the Chamber of Secrets". Its really good and the visuals are wonderful. Kenneth Brannagh is perfect as Gilderoy Lockhart. On the 7th and 9th I had sessions with my Personal Trainers. On the 16th I picked up two cool books regarding LOTRs The Two Towers. One is the "official movie guide" and the other is on "the making of the trilogy". Great shots and lots of neat information. Speaking of movies and such ... I read on Yahoo News that book five of the Harry Potter series is due out on June 21st. Its called "The Order of the Phoenix". Excellent! And lastly ... yesterday I went to an ex co-worker/acquaintance baby shower in Brooklyn. Had a very nice time, ate some free food and socialized. Those of you who live in the Northeast know its absolutely freezing outside. You bet winter is here and nothing like the last two mild ones we've had. This is the real thing!

I'd love to chat somemore ... need to work on answering some emails. Remember to keep rocking in the free world and get somebody to beat the crap out of that war-hungry f--ker in the White House. Ciao baby!

Hey All and a Happy New Year!

Had a really good weekend and did some cool stuff. On saturday I went up to do volunteer work at the Yonkers Ferret Shelter. At the train station in Yonkers I met up with a new aquaintance [Aliza] ... whom I've been chatting with thru one of the Yahoo Groups I belong too. Then we switched to emails. Anyhow, she adopted one of the furkids from the shelter [for her daughters b-day] I volunteer at and mentioned it online. Thats how we got to chatting via email. When Aliza showed up at the station she had her daughter Briana with her, plus little Vanilla peeking his head out of her shoulder satchel. Jumped into her car ... chatting the whole time ... drove to shelter. Aliza, Briana and Vanilla came in with me. It'd been two months since I'd been at shelter and it was good seeing Joanne and her pets. We talked for abit on a few topics before heading into the shelter area. Stayed in shelter area for 10 minutes while Aliza chat with Joanne about ferrets and I played with a few. The main group was out and about, scampering here and there just sniffing everything. Joanne mentioned that during December only one ferret was adopted and four were taken in. At 1:30pm Aliza left with her daughter and furkid. She's a cool, fun, interesting gal. We'll catch up on talk via email. I then got to work on my duties ... which included cleaning/filling up waterbottles, brushing furkids and cleaning their ears. Throughout all this I socialized with them, gave them belated Xmas gifts, as well as yummy treats. They were a happy bunch. This time Oliver, Emily and Big Willy were following me around. Their so sweet. Had a nice tea break with Joanne and gave her a large tin of my homemade cookies as a gift. Back in the shelter we put one group of fuzzies into their cages and took out next group. I brushed their fur and cleaned their little ears. While that group was playing I washed the floors, changed the poopy papers and cleaned out litterboxes. Then Joanne and I put that group away, as well as give them extra treats. Then it was time for me to change into clean clothes and head back to the train station. All in all ... a most enjoyable visit.

On Sunday I went with a friend to the cinema and enjoyed viewing LOTRs "The Two Towers". Saw the first LOTRs film [Fellowship of the Ring] a year ago and greatly enjoyed it. [Rewatched the film while on vacation in Cape May.] Even tho the films are 3 hours long, you don't mind or notice it due to it being so well directed and acted. The Tolkien trilogy is wonderful and I re-read it back in October/November. First time I read "The Hobbit" and LOTRs was back in the mid-1980s. These films are directed by Peter Jackson and he's assembled a brilliant cast to flesh out [well, not in Gollums case] the characters of Middle-Earth. Most of the filming takes place in New Zealand and what gorgeous scenery it is. Breathtaking! The special effects and fantastic computerized work are top notch. Some of my fav characters in the plots of "Fellowship of the Ring" and "Two Towers" are ... Aragorn, Faramir, Gandalf, Shadowfax [yes, the horse], Treebeard, Boromir, Elrond, Merry, Pippin, Gimli and Legolas. Yes, I know, I didn't mention Frodo. Oh well ... sorry about that ... he's not one of my fav Trilogy characters. Anyhow ... lots of amazing scenes in the second film ... especially the battle segments and Ents. Awesome! I highly recommend renting the first film in video or DVD format and then quickly go out to see the second film. You won't be disappointed, not at all.

The following tidbit regarding "ebay" was written by one of my co-workers [Rob Roberge]. I wanted to share it with you all. Enjoy!

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I can't wait to get off this plane, run to a cab, and get to the hotel so I can log into ebay and see if my most recent bid is a winner. They say the first step to recovery is to admit you have a problem. Well, with over 100 transactions under my belt and a collection of "stuff" that I can't even remember why I thought I needed most of it, I admit I may have an issue. But I have bought some things I needed (like these Bose QuietComfort headphones that prevent you from hearing the snores of the person seated next to you). Luckily, I've got some great deals and haven't run across any fakes or fraud. This I contribute to my rules. I'll share my rules with you, but with the understanding that I cannot be held legally responsible should you also become an ebay addict.

Rule No. 1 - Never bid or buy an item from a person that does not have at least 10 positive feedback points. Avoid them if they have any negative feedback at all. You should also read the feedback (you can learn a lot about the quality of their merchandise and shipping habits).

Rule No. 2 - Set a maximum amount you are willing to spend for an item (this should be something less than your annual salary) and NEVER EVER bid more than that amount. Sounds easy, but during the heat of battle you will be tempted to bid more just to win!

Rule No. 3 - Never bid on an item from a seller that will not accept online payments (Bidpay.com, Paypal.com, etc.). These online services go through a verification process and you can be reasonably sure of the seller's name and address. If they don't want to use one these payment services they most likely have something to hide or they don't know how to use a computer and you should avoid them in either case.

Rule No. 4 - Learn the art of "sniping". When you can "snipe" an item with a last second bid, you have mastered the surprise attack and will be victorious on more than your fair share of auctions. A really good sniper uses probing bids to discover the actual high bid of their competition but this is a topic for the advanced ebayer and not covered in my introductory course. Just understand that by placing your final bid at the very last possible moment, you prevent them from retaliating with a counter bid -- there is no "going once... going twice... sold" on ebay. When the auction clock has expired, it's over and the high bidder wins.

With our busy schedules, finding the time to shop in a real store can be tough. Online purchasing can really help, it can be fun, and best of all, you don't have to talk to a salesperson. But you do have to be careful of scams and the less than honest individuals who want your hard earned money. Well, I need to go surf and try to find a 12 step program to cure me of this addiction. Good luck and happy bidding!