More terrific links to websites where one can purchase gifts for Christmas. Check them out:

www.garnethill.com
www.uncommongoods.com
www.surlatable.com
www.sistersgourmet.com
www.hallmark.com
www.wish.org
www.pamperedchef.com

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Too bad for the national media pundits who've wished the Kucinich campaign would just go away. Because Kucinich for President has surged in recent weeks. Other campaigns have seen their fundraising decline; ours is growing!

EXCITING KICK-OFF TOUR

The tour that began in Cleveland with the formal announcement of candidacy and headed to 10 cities in 3 days has been a smash success. Large enthusiastic crowds have greeted the candidate -- Minnesota Public Radio estimated last night's Minneapolis crowd at 2,000! Local news coverage has been decent, with perhaps millions of new people learning about our campaign. Along the way, Dennis was joined and supported by such well-known figures as Ani DiFranco, Studs Terkel, Mimi Kennedy and Dr. Patch Adams.

http://65.54.246.250/cgi-bin/linkrd?_lang=EN&lah=7149b5a8957dfeace8b2fa6ee8631b3d&lat=1066422149&hm___action=http%3a%2f%2fwww%2ekucinich%2eus%2fannounce%2dupdates%2ehtm

EXCITING $$ NEWS

Unlike other campaigns that are in decline, the Kucinich campaign today announced an increase in fundraising -- $1.65 million this quarter (up from last quarter's $1.54 million). We raised nearly $1 million in September alone! With an average donation of $72, the vast majority of our funds will be federally matched. A chunk of September's funds came from the Peace Day parties, showing that house party fundraising plus Internet fundraising is the wave of the future. As a grassroots campaign with a huge volunteer base, Kucinich for President doesn't need to equal other campaigns dollar for dollar.

Oh happy, happy ... joy, joy! I finally was able to purchase the Pearl Jam CD of their Boston3 show [July 11, 2003]. Can't wait to listen to it this evening after I get a manicure and go grocery shopping. Speaking of nails, I ran into my old manicurist of mine yesterday evening, on way home via subway. Rosita now works for a chic salon on Jackson Avenue in Queens. I'll swing by there Saturday and check out the facilities. She used to work for this salon that I frequented near Rockefeller Center several years ago, when I worked in that area. Yesterday I chatted with my friends Larry and Katherine on the phone. Just catching up on news, gossip and stuff in general.

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

Another interesting article from the Madison "Capital Times" newspaper on Kucinich and the media. In my humble opinion definitely worth reading:

KUCINICH GETS THE SHAFT IN DEM DEBATE

http://www.commondreams.org/views03/1014-05.htm

More cool websites dealing with decorating, stuff & travel:

http://www.calclosets.com
http://www.countryliving.com
http://www.parlezvouscards.com
http://www.Whitewingfarm.com
http://www.department56.com
http://www.womansday.com/specials
http://www.paragongifts.com

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Interesting website ... check out link below [if you wish] ... thanks for sharing it with me Josee.

http://www.costofwar.com/

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Article on Dennis Kucinich from Madison "Capital Times" newspaper [10/13/03]. Check it out if you wish:

http://www.commondreams.org/views03/1013-04.htm

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What is it with men [some, not all] these days on Yahoo IM?!? Friends tell me its my "handle" and I should change it. Yeah, their so right. How can I feel like a "sexybroad" when assholes on IM ask me if I'm "on the rag", "watch them jerk off on webcam" or have an "anger problem". Okay, I admit I sometimes have an "anger problem". But when dealing with some morons on Yahoo IM its understandable to get abit peeved. Certain world events, boyfriend stuff, work situation, money matters anger me too. I've been meaning to take up yoga again to help things along. Maybe get a "self-help" book on how to deal with or channel that "anger". An ex-boss of mine said to me years ago ... "don't sweat the small stuff" and he's right. Tho sometimes its easier said than done. As to the "boyfriend stuff", I haven't heard from Rob since Thursday and quite frankly I don't care if I do. [Tho I'll miss dear little Wally & Sluggo.] There have been some "warning bells" and "issues" over last few weeks that I can't ignore. He was a fun guy to hang out with, so its not all bad. Having said that, I have to listen to those "warning bells" and move on. I'm actually feeling abit better having written this paragraph. On to some good news ... my friend Larry called last evening and we had a nice, long chat. He finally found a couple to sublet his apartment in Brooklyn, while he lives in his new digs in Manhattan. Getting a good monthly rent from them too ... $1,700. Sweet!

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

Quote from Napoleon ... "Never interrupt your enemy when he is making a mistake."

Well, the verdict is in from my dentist, I need three crowns. My dental insurance will only allow me to get one done in 2003 and the other two in early 2004. The insurance only pays half of the cost for each crown and I must pay the other half, which amounts to $200 per crown. Ouch! Sigh! I've worked out a deal with my dentist, who is a good guy, where I pay him $50 out of each paycheck. That'll start on October 15th and end on November 28th. Good news tho ... he says there is no decay or cavities. Whew! Okay ... that aside ... the rest of my news today is all politically related. If you wish to read it ... great ... if not ... then thats cool too.

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Please spread this far and wide, dear friends. The Presidential debates have been sold to the corporations. They are NOT sponsored by the League of Women Voters as in years past. Is it no wonder that Dennis or others cannot get equal time????

We citizens must take back this debate process! Please sign the petition at:

http://www.opendebates.org

Thank you so much!

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News from the "Friends Of Kucinich" presidental campaign:

Congratulations on a successful National Kucinich in 2004 Meetup Day on October 2nd! See photos from every city:

http://kucinich2004.meetup.com/photos/recap

Please join all 15927 across 481 cities, including 469 Kucinich in 2004 Supporters in New York City for your next Meetup.

If you are not yet a Kucinich Meetup subscriber, please visit:

http://kucinich2004.meetup.com/plus/?op=email

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Dennis Kucinich Announces White House Bid ... article from Yahoo News:

http://story.news.yahoo.com/news?tmpl=story&u=/ap/20031013/ap_on_el_pr/kucinich_2004_7

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Message From Robert Jereski, Outreach Coordinator, NYC Friends of Kucinich

Please feel free to forward this to all of your progressive friends. Even if they are not committed to Dennis Kucinich's campaign, this is a great opportunity to learn more about progressive positions which all thoughtful Democrats could embrace.

Come to a House Party on Tuesday, October 14th to celebrate the official announcement of Dennis Kucinich's candidacy for President.

Where: 2 Tudor City Place, 9AS
41st Street, between 1st and 2nd Avenue

Time: 6:00 - 9:00 pm

Come to listen to beats of a live hip-hop MC, enjoy some of the finest Puerto Rican cuisine from the Lower East Side, chat and hear about Dennis Kucinich's progressive platform for peace, social justice, balance and prosperity, and an end to the Drug War, the war on the poor, and the war on Iraq.

Feel free to bring your friends and please RSVP asap to let us know how many people you expect to bring. Despite your busy schedule and all of your hard work to defeat the fascist Bush agenda, please try to make it for a fun celebration. there will be a prize for the most erudite, thoughtful, provocative t-shirt.

Well ... well ... things have been busy, interesting and even fun. First off ... some news from the Internet. Found a fascinating article on Common Dreams website, which I wanted to share with you all. If your interested, read on, if not, bypass it to non-political related stuff.

http://www.commondreams.org/headlines03/1011-08.htm

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

Hung out briefly with Rob Thursday evening at my place ... out on the front stoop [weather was nice]. He'd brought over some things for me to take up to the Yonkers Ferret Shelter on Saturday.

On Friday evening I went to BIRDLAND jazz club on West 44th Street to see the Andy Summers Trio perform live. Andy was THE POLICE guitarist [one of the best rock bands from early 1980s] and the group was recently inducted into R & R Hall of Fame. I've been happily following Andy's musical career since 1983. The man is one brilliant, talented guitarist. Got to the club around 8:20pm, paid the "fee" at the door, sat at the bar [prime view of small stage] and waved to Dennis as he was finishing the setup of Andy's equipment. Dennis is Andy's road manager and we've been corresponding via email for a number of years. He's a great guy! Ordered a glass of wine and settled in. When Dennis had a free moment he came over, gave me a hug and we chatted for abit. Shortly before 9pm Andy strolled into the club and walked backstage with his guitar case strapped to his back. Before the first set began [sometime after 9pm] the jazz club filled up abit more. Then it was show time! Andy came out followed by Ernest Tibbs [bass player] and Toss Panos [drummer]. Much applause and me shouting BRAVO. Well, someone had too. During the hour long set Andy played songs from his new CD called ... EARTH & SKY. Some of the songs played from the new CD during the set were ... Above The World, Now I'm Free & The Diva Station. Awesome groove! During the first song or two Andy was experiencing some technical difficulties and Dennis worked on the situation while the trio played on. During the course of the set ... inbetween songs ... Andy would chat in his usual dry witty banter. Which I always find amusing. Overall I very much enjoyed the news songs and Andy was in top form. After the set I talked abit with Dennis and he got me Andy's "guitar pick" he used during the set. WooHoo! I also chatted with the bass player, who is a very congenial chap. Andy came out briefly after having some dinner and talked with folk sitting at the bar, plus some fans who wanted autographs. Before going backstage Dennis brought Andy over to me and we had a short, pleasant conversation. Andy also shook my hand and thanked me for coming to his gigs. Told Dennis I'd hangout for abit and watched the first song of second set before heading home. The way the trains were running [or not running correctly] led me later to think I should of stayed for whole second set. Left BIRDLAND jazz club around 11:20pm and didn't get home until after 1am. If the damn trains hadn't been so messed up I'd of been home at midnight. Geez!


For more on Andy Summers, check out his website at:

http://www.andysummers.com

On Saturday I headed up to Yonkers to do my volunteer work at ferret shelter. Aliza and her daughter Briana met me at the station, along with their adorable new toy poodle Mitzi. She's only 4 months old, such a lovable little ball of fluff and loves to give kisses. It'd been awhile since I last saw Aliza, so we caught up on gossip. Got to Joanne's place and waltz'd in with Mitzi. Gave hugs to Poppy [Harley was out in dog house since it was a nice, sunny day] and several of the cats. Joanne was with a couple in the shelter who'd come to adopt not one but two ferrets. Yeah! We brought Mitzi in with us to see how she got on with the furkids. Rather amusing to behold as the ferrets didn't know what to make of this little bundle of fur, but she romped around with them. Aliza has two ferrets, so Mitzi is acquainted with furkids. After the couple left with their two furkids the four of us headed back into the kitchen to chat for abit. I'd brought up some things that Rob gave me and it took the three of us to put one of the items together. [smiling] Aliza and Briana left shortly, so Joanne filled me in on ferret news since my last visit. Several newbies, as well as adoptions. Then it was time to do my duties ... such as brush fur, clean ears, fill waterbottles, play with furkids, etc. My favorites [ie: Oliver, Emily, Big Willy & Sweet Pea] had already had their playtime and were sleeping in the cage. My duties included taking care of two different groups before heading into kitchen to have a tea break with Joanne. We talked about ferrets, Cape May and Politics. Afterwards I mopped the floors and put down fresh newspapers for their poop. Another fav of mine ... Fuzzbutt ... stomach area is abit larger than usual and I inquired with Joanne. She says his spleen is enlarged and not much one can do for him medically. Its an occurance that happens to ferrets over 5 years old and Fuzzbutt is over 6. So she keeps him happy and comfortable. I gave him lots of cuddles too plus some extra FerreVita. Poor darling ... he's such a good boy too.

Marvel at the fiery shades of Fall before they're gone ... four top places in the Northeast to go leaf spotting:

Mount Greylock [Appalachian Trail]
Lanesborough, MA

Killington, VT

Mount Monadnock
Jaffrey, NH

Rhinebeck, NY

*****************************
Yesterday I had my annual eye exam and it sounds like I'll be needing those reading glasses in about two years. Dr Nachum says my eye sight for distance is perfect [amen!], but my eye sight for reading et al has deteriated since my last visit 1 1/2 years ago. Sigh! Plus I'm having some troubles with my right eye, which he said dries up [or irritates easily] alot, so gave me drops for that. Oh joy!

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You may not know it ... but I've been a subscriber to THE NATION weekly periodical since the Peace Rally back in February. Fascinating reading from a progressive periodical and I highly recommend it to others. In a recent issue [Oct 6, 2003] there were some "In Fact" bits I wanted to share with you all. . . . . . .

ANOTHER WIN FOR MEDIA DEMOCRACY

Take that, Rupert Murdoch! Invoking its authority to "veto" decisions of regulatory agencies, the Senate voted 55 to 40 to overturn FCC moves to loosen controls on media ownership. "What Americans see, hear and read is increasingly controlled by a few people. That is not in the public interest," declared Senator Byron Dorgan, sponsor of the measure that the White House, Senate leaders and the broadcast conglomerates sought to derail. Before the vote, Dorgan accepted petitions from 342,000 American calling on Congress to kill the FCC rules. "Broadcast stations operate on airwaves that are owned by the public ...The FCC seems to have forgotten that, but the American people have NOT forgotten," Dorgan said. Next step: Pressure House Speaker Dennis Hastert to let his chamber follow the Senates lead.

RUMSFELD MUST GO

"The Defense Secretary should resign ... now," we wrote back in April, and we believe it even more strongly now. That's why we support the Move On/Win Without War "Change the Team" campaign. As we noted in our bill of indictment, Rumsfeld, together with his deputy Paul Wolfowitz, his adviser Richard Perle and Vice President Cheney, were the principal architects of the Administration's Iraq venture "in pursuit of which they have deceived the American people, misled US soldiers whose lives are at risk, scorned the UN and defied international law."

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

Several websites I heard about this morning on WBAI [free speech radio - 99.5 AM] while getting ready for work. Check them out, if you wish:

http://www.whatreallyhappened.com
http://www.iraqwar.ru [click on English icon to view site in english, not russian]
http://www.veteransforpeace.org
http://www.ccr-ny.org

Check out this great website ... if you wish:

http://www.ppnyc.org/homepage.html

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On this website I belong to called Ringo.com ... within the last month or so I posted two POLL questions of a political nature. Sadly, not many responses, but if it'd been of a sexual nature, then I'd of gotten lots of replies. This is sad when many Americans would rather think and talk about sex [f--king] ... than talk about important issues like politics or world events. Don't mind my bitchiness ... I'm just PMSing.

Q: What are your political leanings or preference?

Democrat 23%
Liberal 8%
Republican 31%
Green Party 0
Independent 23%
Other 15%

Q: Which Democrat would you like to see be the one to take down Bush's [Shrub the Lesser] Empire? We Americans need to take back our country from Corporations and greedy wealthy folk.

Kucinich 9%
Dean 22%
Kerry 13%
Gephardt 0
Sharpton 9%
Clarke 9%
Lieberman 39%

*******************************
Good News ... I've heard that I'm being kept on as a Permanent Floater with E&Y and at my present salary. WooHoo!

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Websites with great decorating ideas & items to purchase for your home. Check it out!

http://www.containerstore.com
http://www.ikea.com
http://www.roomandboard.com
http://www.shadesoflight.com
http://www.potluckstudios.com
http://www.williamssonoma.com
http://www.basketville.com
http://www.pierredeux.com
http://www.surefit.com
http://www.crateandbarrel.com
http://www.greatwindows.com

More to follow.............

An interesting article by Michael Moore ... yeah dude ... rock on!

http://www.commondreams.org/views03/1003-07.htm

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This morning into early afternoon I participated with many other "Friends of Kucinich" [Democrat Running For President In 2004] volunteers out at the big rally for Immigrant Rights in Flushing Meadows [Queens - #7 Subway line]. (This event is part of the Immigrant Workers Freedom Ride rally, which originally started out on the westcoast.) Lots of people came to the Rally and we volunteers were there to hand out leaflets/pamphlets/buttons regarding Kucinich. Check out website below on Kucinich's stance on immigrant rights. A good portion of the responses were good and very encouraging. The weather was not so inspiring ... cool, windy and overcast. [I'm now just finishing my hot lunch & cup of herbal tea. Ahhhhhhhhh]

http://www.kucinich.us/issues/issue_immigrant_rights.htm

[Please pass on this link to those whom you'd think would benefit or be interested.]

Remember ... we Americans must pull together ... vote for a good Democrat and totally oust Bush [Shrub the Lesser] and his Empire. Stop the occupation in Iraq and Afghanistan ... bring our troops home ... NOW.

Well all ... the Kucinich NYC Meetup last evening was great, inspirational and we got alot accomplished. Ran for about 2 hours ... we started at Third & Long Bar but it was way too noicy ... so we moved to the outdoor section of the Barking Dog bar/grill. It was abit cool out last night, but a yummy hot chocolate warmed me up quickly, plus the inspiring speechs of several dedicated, energetic volunteers. We'll be participating in the Immigrant Worker Rally on Saturday out in Queens, to promote the Kucinich campaign with leaf-letting. Peace & Solidarity!

Last evening my landlady's beau finally showed up at 6:30pm to fix the pipes under my bathroom sink. Amen!

Other news ... well yours truly did a silly, absent-minded thing earlier today. I can just hear you all now ... "What the hell did she do now?!?" Well, I'll tell you and I'm not proud of it either. Had to deliver some papers to a partner on the 15th floor at E&Y and when heading back to the elevator realized I had to pee. Naturally I assumed [yep, bad move on my part] the bathrooms were in the same location on 15th, as they are on 28th floor. Wrong!!!! I walked right into the mens bathroom! Elderly, business type gent is coming out of a stall [fully dressed I might add] and sees my surprised look, plus me saying "oh my". I say ... "I'm sooo sorry" and he says "I'm not" with a smile on his face. Well, I turned around, said "excuse me" and left. Went down the hall and found the ladies room and stayed there for 5 minutes or so. I was abit embarressed, to say the least. [Okay .... you all done laughing .... good .... next paragraph is political stuff.]

The Kucinich campaign reached its "third quarter" fundraising goal and the tally comes to a nice $1.54 million. Everyones efforts with fundraising are greatly appreciated. If you missed the third quarter deadline, you can donate now to get the campaign off to a brisk start on the fourth quarter. Here is the link:

https://www.kucinich.us/contribute.php

OR call 866-413-3664

Also, the monthly "NYC Friends of Kucinich" meetup is tonight at 7pm. Being held at the Third & Long Bar. The address is 523 Third Avenue at East 35th Street. Bring a friend or two along. If you can attend, please RSVP at:

http://kucinich2004.meetup.com/rsvp/?e=897994&v=19792

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

Late Breaking News Regarding My Position Here At E&Y

Found out about 1/2 hour ago that I didn't get another position I was applying for and was upset by my continuing misfortunes. After getting my composure intact ... I called my Administrative Manager and discussed things with her. She confirmed that I'm being kept on at E&Y in the capacity of "floater" and she's got a few "assignments" lined up for me over next month. This is good news and a big relief, cause the job market "outside" sucks!

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

Great article! You the man Bruce "the boss" Springsteen! Hurray! WooHoo!

http://www.commondreams.org/views03/1002-08.htm

An interesting and important article to read from Common Dreams website:

http://www.commondreams.org/views03/0930-03.htm

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

Ah yes, the joys of living in a small apartment here in NYC. Sigh! Last evening, after getting a manicure/pedicure, I come home and the pipe under my bathroom sink bursts. Run over to my landladys place and her boyfriend comes back to help me out. Able to get the water shut off for pipe leading to bathroom sink and then he removes the corroded pipe et al. Not a pretty sight. They don't have the parts to replace, so job needs to be finished this evening around 6pm. Stay tuned...............

Was suppose to have an internal E&Y position interview this afternoon. Its been postponed to Friday. So far nothing from outside agency on interviews. Frustrating! Yesterday afternoon my Administrative Manager insisted that I attend this "Scorecard Performance Training". This training is set up to help you with your E&Y goals for the next year. I DON'T EVEN KNOW IF I'LL BE WITH THE FIRM AFTER OCTOBER 10TH! Why am I at this training, yah know. I even asked my Admin Mgr that question and her abrasive response was "Go To It Anyway". I'm thinking "what the f--k?!?" So, I went, took the one hour training [waste of time] and wrote up something on my future goals. I handed it in to the supervisor and explained my situation. She's like "why are you here", so I told her what so-so said. The supervisor just shook her head and told me not to bother with "goals". I've been with E&Y since January 2001 and in the last three months I've encountered more difficulties than in all the time I've been here. I've tried to be patient, but thats wearing thin. Yah know? Sigh!!

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

Time to pass on some interesting links to a variety of websites:

http://www.bluestockings.com

http://www.nyc.indymedia.org

http://www.downtownboathouse.org

http://www.wildmanstevebrill.com

http://www.shorewalkers.org

http://www.ny.com/museums/free.html

http://www.worldwar3report.com

http://www.craigslist.org

ENJOY!

Those of you who hate going to the dentist, raise your hand. Wow! That many? Holy smokes Batman! Me too! Well, with the work situation still in abit of limbo, I said "self" make some appointments while I still have medical/dental insurance. So yesterday I went to my dentist on upper Eastside of Manhattan for X-Rays and a cleaning. Ecky stuff ... phew! I have to go back for some dental work next week. Not looking forward to that ... sigh! Also on schedule for next week, I have my annual eye [visual] exam. Oh joy.............

Yesterday evening I did a silly thing and its only the third time I've done it in 18 years. Accidently left my apartment keys on the kitchen table when I went out to do laundry at local laundromat. Yeah, I know, DUH!! Good thing I'd left the window to my kitchen open to "air out" the apartment. Contacted my landlady and her boyfriend brought me, plus a ladder to the courtyard [rear of building]. Pushed open the screen and climbed through. You know damn well I kept those dang keys ON ME the rest of the evening.

Other news ... have an interview tomorrow afternoon for an internal E&Y position. Maybe I'll get lucky with this one. Stay tuned..................

Well folks … another weekend is behind us and its back to work. Oh joy! The weekend as a good, progressive one and the weather could have been abit better. Well, at least Friday and most of Saturday were decent. Anyhow … enough on that topic. Friday evening I had Rob over to my place for dinner & dessert [wink wink]. It was fun and entertaining. On Saturday I participated in my second Ferret Meetup, this one was held at Bowlmar Lanes down near Union Square. Rob and I showed up, plus two other ferret fanatics arrived [ie: Gary & Sharon]. No sign of Melissa or Randy. We spent a nice two hours talking about ferrets, NYC ban and politics. Early that evening I had a strong urge to watch LOTRs “The Two Towers” on video, so I stopped by Blockbuster in my neighborhood and purchased one for $7. Watched it once Saturday evening, after a phone call with my friend Deb and again Sunday morning. Sunday afternoon around 4pm I attended a “Friends of Kucinich” outreach meeting at Robert K apartment in Tudor City on eastside. The meeting lasted from 4pm to about 6:45pm and was very productive. We got much accomplished and I’m on two more committees, one of which is helping with setting up a NYC based website. Before heading into the meeting, I hooked up with my friend Larry for a chat and he gave me a lift into Manhattan.

The following article may be of interest to some … its at Common Dreams website … check it out if you wish:

http://www.commondreams.org/views03/0928-07.htm

As you all can tell by the ratings, Shrub the Lesser's approval has fallen to a record low recently and thats great news. That means Democrats really need to turn on the heat right now. If you wish to find out more on the Democratic party or support them, go to this link:

https://www.democrats.org/support/challenge.html?s=NETA159-

We cannot have another four years of this crazy president and his empire. We cannot continue to turn back the clock on American values. Let's show the world that we are standing together to win big in 2004.

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

Check out this interesting article on Dean & Kucinich:

http://www.progressive.org/webex03/wx0910b03.html

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An article on Kucinich on whether he can beat Bush ... HELL YEAH!

http://www.kucinich.us/electable.htm

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This just in ... "Vote No on Bush's Quagmire"

Congress is soon to cast its second momentous vote on Iraq, the first being in October 2002 when Bush was given a blank check to invade. Almost all of the arguments in favor of invading made by the Bush Empire have been proven to be wrong & false. So far, no weapons of mass destruction. No welcome as liberators. No secret harboring of Al Qaeda. No remaking of the Middle East into a region of democracy. Click on the link below to take action:

http://act.actforchange.com/cgi-bin7/DM/y/mVTNOFFwOIp70fpHOBI

In the last two elections, the oil & gas, mining and timber industries spent more than $80 million on federal campaigns. Now they are cashing in on their investments. Click on link below to see the top ten pay-offs to industry:

http://www.wildpac.org/topten.php

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Weekend news ... Rob and I are having dinner & [wink wink] dessert this evening. [WooHoo] Tomorrow I'm attending my second "Ferret Meetup" here in Manhattan and Sunday looks free right now. Some good news on the work front ... received the "Success Sharing" bonus, plus got my review/raise [3.5%]. Still waiting to hear more feedback on whether or not I'll be staying on at E&Y as a floater. This would be good news, if it came true, as I don't want to go to Unemployment.

Good article regarding that wacko Vice President, Dick Cheney, from TruthOut website featuring Kucinich. Check it out if you wish:

http://www.truthout.org/docs_03/092203D.shtml

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Well, I'm finally back in the groove with Genesis Employment agency and took three Microsoft tests. Got 87% on Word, 77% on Excel and 77% on PowerPoint. These scores are a helluva lot better than the ones I took at E&Y back in August. I hope to have my first job interview this coming Friday or Monday at the latest. Possibly a banking firm down in Wall Street area that pays a good salary. Stay tuned...................

Interesting website ... check it out if you wish:

http://www.truthout.com/

Well you all ... I had a great Sunday afternoon/evening spent with my new fella Rob G and then Monday turns out to be crappy at work. Go figure!

First, the bad news, I didn't get either of those two jobs I was interviewing for at E&Y. Damn! One went to another E&Y internal person and the second one was given to a temp. Good lord! I've got three weeks left at this place and no other prospects at this time. Heard back from Russell at the agency and went over at lunch time to get the ball rolling. Filled out paperwork and had a good chat with Russell. Not many job openings out there, but hopefully something to sink my teeth into. Stay tuned.............

The second news is better ... spent most of Sunday afternoon and all evening with Rob. We had a great time! We took his two ferrets [ie: Sluggo & Wally] plus a picnic of sushi to a nice little park in western Long Island, near Port Washington. The weather was delightful! Wally and Sluggo have their own harnesses and leash. They loved hanging out at the park ... doing all those ferrety things ... sniffing, pooping, digging, romping, etc. They were sure zonked out when we brought them back to Rob's apartment around 6pm. From there we drove over to my neck of the woods for some ice cream and a stroll around the hood. Rob called up some friends [ie: Donny, Eric, Jesse & Madeline] of his that live not far from me [9 minute walk]. They live in this big loft and were cooking dinner when we arrived. Their a fun bunch & I enjoyed myself. Rob and I headed back to my apartment after 10pm and spent an hour of good sex. Hum ..... yeah! Rob left at 11:30pm and I finally rolled into bed at midnight. Damn good day!

Greetings & Salutations!

I'm back from my nice, relaxing vacation in lovely Cape May, NJ and I survived Hurricane Isabel. Actually, Izzy was more west of us in NJ and we only had a tropical storm. Still, during times on Thursday, those wind gusts got up to 50 and 60 mph. That's nothing to sneeze at, yah know. A rundown on weather report for the six days I was in Victorian Cape May:

Sunday ... Hazy & Humid
Monday ... Overcast & some Rain
Tuesday ... Sunny, warm, blue skies
Wednesday ... Sunny, warm, some clouds & wind later in the evening
Thursday ... Tropical Storm kicked ass
Friday ... Sunny, warm & 25 mph winds

Overall I had a nice time on vacation, but after six consecutive visits to the southern NJ shore, well folks, its time for a change. I've been seriously thinking of checking out Quebec next year, maybe in late August or early September. As to this vacation ... I had much preying on my mind, did lots of serious thinking and at times was lonely. Some highlights of my visit ... hooking up with a "peace rally" on Sunday, visiting a 19th Century furniture exhibition, participating in a fun Cape May Haunting tour, riding a bike rental all over, good food, shopping, chatting with a few aquaintances, sitting on the beach watching a sunset, etc.

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

Now on to political stuff ... hell yeah!

From MoveOn website some news regarding the "false statements" uttered by Shrub the Lesser. You may want to check out these websites:

http://www.misleader.org/pdf/nyt_ad.pdf

The "illegally" elected President say things that are misleading or just plain wrong every day, but most of these statements are never challenged. Well ... let's challenge them ... cause if we don't our country will sink further and further into a quagmire. With Misleader.org ... check out Shrub's lies and then read the "truth". Here is an example:

ON TAX CUTS

G.W.Bush ... "The tax relief is for everyone who pays income taxes, Americans will keep, this year, an average of almost $1,000 more of their own money."

The Truth ... Nearly half of all taxpayers get less than $100. And 31% of all taxpayers get nothing at all.

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

The US occupation in Iraq has left American soldiers unprepared and vulnerable, the country degenerating into chaos, and the Iraqi people embittered and hostile. Now the President is asking Congress for a staggering $87 billion blank check to fund more of the same. Until he takes strong steps to correct this failure, Congress shouldn't give him a cent. Bush needs to fire the team responsible, starting with Defense Secretary Rumsfeld and transfer authority to the United Nations. Please join us at MoveOn.org in telling Congress to hold on to our money until Bush changes his team and changes his course in Iraq. You can send an email to your Member of Congress and sign our petition at:

http://moveon.org/firerumsfeld/?id=1680-2148547-BRVnfMnejSC3kaqCQWW5IQ

Please pass this message along to your friends and colleagues. Thank you!

Had a great time last evening on my date with Rob. We went to a cool little sushi bar [Sapporo] down on lower eastside, then headed back to his place in Queens to have ice cream, do some major cuddling and play with his two adorable ferrets [ie: Sluggo & Wally]. Tried Saki for the first time and that stuff is strong. Whoa! Rob also turned me on to some cool music, Black Flag and Bad Religion, plus "Repo Man" soundtrack. Awesome! I've heard of Henry Rollins of Black Flag punk rock fame ... but never heard much of their music. Both bands lyrics are heavy into politics ... usually against Republicans and anti-establishment. Right-on! Also, Henry Rollins was in the film "Johnny Mnemonic" with Keaun Reeves back in early to med 1990s. Earlier today I was down in Union Square handing out Kucinich pamphlets during the WTO protest/demonstrations and checking out the huge farmers market. Heading down to the New Jersey shore tomorrow for one week vacation. Can't wait! Pray for some good weather! Later.......................

"Help Prevent the Proposed Ban on Ferrets in Chicago!"

Your signature will help reach our goal of 1000 signatures! Together we can truly make a difference!

http://www.thepetitionsite.com/takeaction/163891887

Please pass this link on to anyone who is interested in Ferrets and Animal Rights. Even if you live in Canada, you are still able to make a difference. Ferrets should not be treated differently than cats and dogs. Ferrets are less likely to pass diseases than a cat or dog as they often stay in the house all the time. Ferret owners are the most likely pet owners to take their babies in for treatment and vaccinations over other types of animals (Read in Ferrets Magazine). If you don't want to sign this, please pass it on to someone who might.

Thank you! Peace & Solidarity!

Today is the second anniversary of the 9/11 disaster at World Trade Center, Pentagon & Pennsylvania. Light a candle tonight in remembrance of those lives lost on that day.

As John Lennon sang ... "All we are saying is give Peace a chance".

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

An interesting article and from all sources ... the New York Post! Check it out if you wish:

http://www.nypost.com/business/5265.htm

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

Also, for an hour or so last evening, I attended the "Circle of Hope" which started in Union Square and headed down to Ground Zero. This is in regards to 9/11 ... we all had candles [well, the folk around me did] and it was a very moving experience.

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

Came across the "news" below from Kucinich4President Yahoo Group and wanted to share it with you all.

"The Republican corporate media is covertly backing Howard Dean. Here is a clue as to why they are. This is a link to a Republican operative's essay. He is working on the Dean campaign. There is a split among conservatives in which the neo-cons have won out under Bush. Mike Rupert pointed this out several months ago. Rather than assassinate Bush as Rupert says they will, I believe the mainstream Republican corporate conservatives will use a Democrat who is reliably conservative, like Dean, to take the neo-cons out without risking a true change in their corporate control of the nation. The last thing they want is an end to their duopoly control of the political agenda of both major parties. This is why they consistently ignore Kucinich. Yes, there is a conservative establishment conspiracy to deny Kucinich the presidency."

http://www.greaterdemocracy.org/2003_08_01_gd.html#106203463665230544

[Note ... We, as concerned American citizens, cannot let this happen to us or Kucinich!]

This past Monday evening [September 8th] was my third volunteer meeting with "Friends of Kucinich". The meeting went very well. It was productive and ran over three hours. There were about 30 to 40 people attending, tho some youth left early, as they were very impatient and didn't understand our democratic system of procedure. [Bob Ginsberg again attended our meeting & its great having him there.] During the meeting we covered many topics, learned of upcoming events, talked about what Dennis had been up to lately and set up committees. As to the latter, I am now on a few committees dealing with upcoming events and materials. The next meeting is Tuesday, September 16th, but sadly I'll have to miss out, as I'm on vacation next week. Its been a great learning experience, so far, and great meeting new people and coming together to help out Kucinich. Right-on!

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

Other news from "True Majority" website:

Rather than admitting the shortcomings of his failed policy and plotting a course to get us out of Iraq. George Bush used the speech to the nation to repeat his lies in the hopes that people will believe them if said often enough. [Yo ... Shrub the Lesser ... we're not dumb!] There was no mention of WMD, Bush continued to equate Iraq with al-Qaeda [everyone knows its Saudi's and NOT Iraqi's] terrorists even though there's NO factual basis for the charge, and then he asked us for another $87 BILLION to bail him out. [Don't do it people!] How much is $87 billion?!? For that amount of money ... America could solve the school budget crisis in every one of our communities, OR provide health insurance for every uninsured American child for 15 years, OR provide food for all 6 million of the children who die from hunger around the world for 7 years.

A day of protest is being planned for October 25th in Washington DC and Los Angeles and places in between. For more information about these events, go to:

http://www.truemajority.org/ctt.asp?u=380807&l=112

Yahoo Chat Group geared towards Dennis Kucinich ... check it out if you wish:

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Kucinich4President/

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We've all been a critical part of the movement to stop the FCC rule change and media monopoly. This week or next, the Senate will vote on whether to roll back the rule change. It could be very close. This vote is the BIG ONE ... the last major vote in the Senate on this issue. Help out for a good cause ... please tell the Senate to put the FCC rule change to bed at:

http://www.moveon.org/stopthefcc/

Then help us reach 100,000 signers by Wednesday by passing this message on to your friends and colleagues and encouraging them to sign as well. On Wednesday, Moveon.org will be holding a crucial press conference with Senator Dorgan [D-ND] and Senator Snowe [R-ME] and groups across the political spectrum to highlight the broad opposition to the FCC rule change. If we can get 100,000 signers, we'll demonstrate beyond a shadow of a doubt the breadth of support for the roll-back. It could mean the difference between success and defeat. Make a difference, please sign the "Stop the FCC" petition right now, at the link above. Thank you!

Here now the weekend report and it was a good one. First of all the weather cleared up and was very sunny from Friday onwards. Sweet! Secondly, I spent some time Friday evening over at Rob's place in Queens and becoming acquainted with his two ferrets [ie: Sluggo & Wally]. At one point we took the furkids up to the roof and let them romp around, while we cuddled and gazed at the stars [even saw Mars]. Very enjoyable evening! On saturday I spent it up in Yonkers doing my volunteer work at ferret shelter. Two furkids from previous month had to be put to sleep, as their health had gotten worse and their quality of life diminished. Poor darlings! Did my usual duties of brushing fur, cleaning ears, water bottle maintanence, socializing, poopy trays, etc. Didn't get to play with some of my favs, as they'd already had their playtime and back in cages. Sigh! There are several young, energtic, aggressive, adoptable newbies at the shelter. Plus several had been adopted since I was up in August. That evening I went out for a power walk at local track and again spotted Mars. Really cool! On Sunday I had to do some work at the office, then went up to eastside of Manhattan to hangout at Central Park and Metropolitan Museum of Art. This time I brought my camera, since it was another fine day, and I spent some time at Met roof garden. Lovely views! Back home I grabbed a blanket, pillow, book and waterbottle then headed to local park for a relaxing two hours under the trees. Very nice!

Listed below are some great websites dealing with politics, ferrets and the rock group Pearl Jam. If interested, check them out. Just highlight the chosen link, copy and then paste it up in the "address" area of the internet and hit enter. Voila!

Peace & Solidarity!

http://news.bbc.co.uk/

http://www.commondreams.org/

http://www.democrats.org/

http://www.gp.org/

http://www.kucinich.us/

http://www.ferretcongress.org/

http://www.moveon.org/

http://www.nycferrets.com/

http://tenclub.net/

http://www.sonymusic.com/artists/PearlJam/index.html

http://www.ferretcompany.com/content/main.html

http://www.thenation.com/

http://www.theskyiscrape.com/

http://truemajority.org/

http://www.unitedforpeace.org/

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

EMERGENCY DEMONSTRATION!
Protest Attorney John Ashcroft's Visit to NYC To Promote that Sicko USA PATRIOT ACT!

When: 12 Noon on Tuesday, September 9th
Where: Wall Street & Broad Street in NYC
Subway: Take the 2/3/4/5/J/Z to Wall & Broad Street area

On Sept 9th, Attorney General Ashcroft [total scumbag] will visit NYC to attend a closed meeting with law enforcement officials to build support for the USA Patriot Act and impending Patriot II legislation. Hundreds of New Yorkers will meet his arrival and gather together to tell Ashcroft to stop his attack on the "Bill of Rights" and to affirm and uphold OUR rights and liberties. Join United For Peace & Justice, the NY Bill of Rights Defens campaign and a coalition of dozens of civil liberties, immigrants rights, peace & justice organizations and political leaders on Tuesday at noontime. [Remember ... today the US government can get a secret warrant to search your home without telling you until later. Today the government can monitor your Internet use. Today the FBI is authorized to monitor your political and religious activities. We can only guess what tomorrow will bring. The fact is, Orwell's vision of "Big Brother" is NOW, for the first time, technologically possible. Join this important emergency demonstration and stand up for the BILL OF RIGHTS! Your rights!]

Last evening I attended my second volunteer meeting for NYC Friends Of Kucinich. It was great ... good turnout ... with more people attending than last weeks meeting. I arrived 20 minutes late, as I had a prior commitment, plus the subways were not kind to me. Typical! Anyhow, when I arrived the meeting was already in progress with lead volunteers discussing many issues. We then watched a 20 video on Kucinich and then Democrat State Committeeman Bob Ginsberg spoke. He is supporting Kucinich and this is good news. [Bob Ginsberg is one of the most progressive and independent members of the Democratic State committee today.] Lets get more democrats, liberals, progressives and independents out there to support Dennis for 2004 presidental election. DOWN WITH BUSH! I also signed up for some upcoming events, as a volunteer, to spread the news around about Dennis. Those of you reading this and living in the NYC area ... if you wish to attend the next meeting for us volunteers ... its being held on September 8th at 6:30pm. The address is ... Organization of Staff Analysts, 220 East 23rd Street, Suite 707, NYC. If you wish to learn more about Dennis, go to the following link:

http://www.kucinich.us

Peace & Solidarity!!

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

On the work front ... things are progressing in regards to interviews. I'll know next week whether I got the Client Service Assistant position in Hedge Fund Group. I'll also be interviewing for the Senior Client Service Assistant position in the ASC area. Keep your fingers crossed and pray that next week provides me with good news. Stay tuned...............

[News from the Dennis Kucinich Democratic Presidental campaign ... if you wish to read it ... great ... if not ... pass it by ... I will not be offended. Thank you!]

IOWA!

Before I tell you about the partying we have planned this month, here's what I saw Monday and Tuesday in Iowa, the crucial first voting state in the country. As mainstream journalists acknowledged, no one had more supporters in the Des Moines Labor Day parade than Dennis, whose talk at the end of the parade was carried by C-SPAN. On Labor Day, our campaign announced the "Rank and File Labor for Kucinich" steering committee, 32 Iowa labor leaders and activists from 15 unions reaching out to other union folks to get them to vote for Kucinich in the January caucuses.

Yesterday, the leading peace group in Iowa, STAR*PAC, resoundingly endorsed Kucinich as "the first president of the new millennium to stand for peace." Citing his antiwar leadership in Congress and his campaign positions, (including cuts in Pentagon spending), STAR*PAC threw its weight 100% behind Kucinich. If you believe the corporate media, Dean is the "antiwar candidate" with all the student support. Wrong on both counts. The Kucinich rally at the University of Iowa Monday night was electric with hundreds of students ready to work for Kucinich from now until January...and beyond.

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

If you wish to join the Kucinich Yahoo Group, go to the following link:

http://yahoogroups.com/group/nycmeetupforkucinich

Another link to check out is:

http://www.kucinich.us/passiton.htm

Check out this Newsday website and place your vote on who you think should be next president of USA. Naturally I voted for Dennis Kucinich and his stats are doing very well. So add your vote at the link below ... thank you.

http://tinyurl.com/luxi

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

Had a nice, relaxing Labor Day holiday weekend. Weather was great on Sunday and stunk rest of the time. On Sunday Mom and I visited the Saratoga Battlefield Historial Park for an auto tour. This takes about 2 1/2 to 3 hours with 10 stops and a few picnic areas. Some of the views were great and two of the stops had folk dressed in 1776 costume talking about Revolutionary War history. It was very enjoyable. While driving thru a heavily wooded area of the park we saw a Doe and two Fawn near the road. Never seen deer that closeup before and they were so pretty. Also over the weekend I did some shopping, yard work, dining out and hairdresser appointment. Had great conversations with two chaps on my bus rides. Going up I sat next to and chat with a hairdresser named Stacy, he was very amusing. On the way back to NYC I sat next to and chat with a truck driver named Dick, who was a cool dude.

Yep, I'm back again and so soon too. :-)

Went on that second interview this morning for the Client Service Assistant position and it went very well. I believe I have one more interview and then will know whether I got the position or not. I've applied for several others in case this one bottoms out. Do not want to be out on the streets after October 10th. Wish me luck!

Last evening, after my chiropractor visit, I headed back into Manhattan and the upper westside near Columbia University. Participated, as a volunteer, in my first Dennis Kucinich campaign [Democrat] meeting for the NYC area. There was myself and about 20 other individuals in attendance. It was quite interesting and informative. I've never done volunteer work before in regards to anyone's political campaign. I'm treading new waters here, yah know. What got several of the volunteers into heated discussions last evening was on the topic of delegates and campaign research. We also received lots of freebies on Dennis to hand out to NYC voters. Rock on!

Some more interesting news ... work and social related.

First the work situation ... I have another interview tomorrow morning for that Client Service Assistant position at the office. This time with a different partner in that group and/or division. After that I than have to be interviewed by one more partner and that'll take place after Labor Day weekend. Also, ran into a co-worker from my old group, he said there may be an Administrative Assistant opening soon and they want me for the spot. So things are starting to get abit interesting. Stay tuned............

The other news ... I went to the Howard Dean Rally last evening in Bryant Park, here in Manhattan. Dean was or still is governor of Vermont and hopes to be the Democratic candidate running for president in 2004. Out of all the democrat hopefuls the candidates I'm leaning towards are Howard Dean and Dennis Kucinich. Anyhow ... it was a fun rally with music, art, speeches and of course an appearance by the man himself. From what we were told, before Dean showed up, the event was being filmed live for commerical usage. Dean had lots of interesting things to say ... was on stage for about 20 to 30 minutes and really got the crowd pumped. Stood throughout the whole event, so naturally my feet and lower back were zonked by time I got home at 11:30pm. Stay tuned for more news...............

Establishment pundits and corporate Democrats had hoped the Kucinich campaign would just disappear. But with new hiring across the country, expansion of the website and enhanced constituency outreach, but the campaign keeps growing.

NEW VIDEO ON THE WEB: A powerful video about Dennis Kucinich -- his history, issues and campaign -- is viewable on Kucinich website [see link below]. Spread this video, "This Is The Moment," to your friends [if you wish]. It is hosted by actor Hector Elizondo and features Ed Asner, James Cromwell and Mimi Kennedy.

http://kucinich.us/thisisthemoment.htm

On Sunday I visited the Metropolitan Museum of Art up on 5th Avenue and 80th Street. It was another gorgeous day in NYC and would be crazy not to take advantage of it. Yah know? Before arriving at the museum, I stopped by a street vendor to purchase a book I'd been wanting for awhile on WW1. Also purchased a terrific print from an artist. At the museum visited several fascinating exhibits ... such as: Central Part - A Sesquicentennial Celebration, Celebrating Saint Petersburg and finally Roy Lichtenstein On The Roof. I'd never been up to the roof garden at the Met and let me tell you the views are fantastic. Oh my gosh! Took my breath away looking at the views and then I remembered I was up there to see the exhibit. While up on the roof garden I got to chatting with an amusing, interesting couple [Joan & Robert] and the gent treated me to a glass of white wine. [One could tell that other folk were very much in congenial mode.] This couple had recently become engaged and returned from a lovely trip to Scotland. While talking about several topics, Joan spotted one of her co-workers who was there with his family. We all talked for abit about recent blackout and star gazing. It was all very enjoyable.

Back at home I received a voicemail from Rob, whom I'd met the day before at a ferret meetup. I called him back on his cell phone and he was on his bike on the Pulaski Bridge. Which isn't far from my apartment, as he lives in Astoria [Queens]. I was heading out again, this time to local park to relax on a blanket under a shady tree. So Rob joined me for an hour or so. We talked about a number of things and became better acquainted. I'm liken this dude. [I can tell he's younger than me by at least 10 years+, but what the hell.] Stay tuned.............

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RAINBOW BRIDGE
[Regarding Ferrets]

Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge. When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge. There are meadows and hills for all of our speical friends so they can run and play together. There is plenty of food, water and sunshine and our friends are warm and comfortable. All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to healthy and vigor, those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and time gone by. The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing, they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind. They all run and play together, bu the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent, his eager body begins to quiver. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster. You have been spotted and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face, you hands again caress the beloved head and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life, but never absent from your heart. then you cross Rainbow Bridge together.

[author unknown]

Some cool news and not so cool news. First the "not so cool" news ... if I don't get a new permanent position at E&Y by October 10th, then I'm out of work, hitting un-employment and signing up with agencies. Ugh! Sigh! Let's hope luck and good fortune is on my side, so I can continue working for E&Y. Say a prayer or two for me. Now the cool news ... at lunch today I met up with some terrific folk who are totally into ferrets. Thru the Internet one can sign up for "ferret meetups", which are held once a month at funky cafe's or restaurants in Manhattan. Today at 1pm ... there were four [ie: Melissa, Randy, Rob & me] of us who met up at Big City Bar & Grill on upper eastside. Not a bad establishment, service sucked tho, but the food was good and prices were decent. The weather is gorgeous today, so we sat outside under the awnings to partake of drink, food, plus fun and interesting conversation. I had such a great time and Rob is a cutie. Melissa used to own ferrets ... Randy has one ferret [Casper] ... Rob has two furkids [Sluggo & Wally]. I don't own ferrets, but do volunteer work at a shelter in Yonkers. Which they thought was very cool and enjoyed looking at the pix I brought of the shelter furkids. The next "meetup" will be on either September 20th or 27th. Looking forward to it. :-)

Well folks, just heard the status for the Client Service Assistant position I've applied for at my firm. Went on first interview yesterday and it went very well. [The CSA positon sounds terrific, absorbing, challenging & new direction for my career.] I heard from HR today and they want me to interview with the two remaining partners early next week. Its been narrowed down to me and two others for the position. Stay tuned and wish me luck!

Nothing to report today

Now for some work related news ... as you all know I finished all that testing last week. So glad that is over and done with, as it was a strain on the nerves. Anyhow, I applied for two open positions within the firms database and went on first interview this morning. It went very well my meeting with the partner of the HF Group at E&Y. The position of Client Service Assistant is newly created in the department. Sounds like it would be a steady pace of challenging work/projects. Which I very much want right now. Need to broaden my skills and boost my career. Stay tuned....................

[Note: An email message below I received yesterday from "Howard Dean for America" campaign. If you wish to read on and take action, please do so, if not, I would completely understand and respect your decision. Thank you.]

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

The impact you have had on politics in this country is simply amazing. Everywhere I go, people want to talk about the power of the grassroots--a power that you have helped to demonstrate. Whenever I meet with elected officials, labor leaders, members of civic organizations and other Americans, their number one question is, can the grassroots sustain the momentum? Can we build a grassroots campaign large enough to take on the special interests, win the nomination, and defeat President Bush in 2004?

I believe we can, but the next 42 days are a crucial time for us to prove that the grassroots has the power to take our country back. Today, you stand with nearly 300,000 other Americans, united in our cause. Our goal is to have 450,000 American supporters by September 30th. We are going to reach that goal by continuing to spread our message that we are restoring the American community and our nation's role as an idealistic moral force in world affairs.

To spread that message, we will be traveling to eight cities in four days as part of our "Sleepless Summer Tour," beginning this Saturday, August 23rd. Please sign up to attend if you live in a city we'll be visiting, or ask your friends who live nearby to sign up and attend. You can find out more about the tour by clicking here:

http://www.deanforamerica.com/sleeplesssummer

This campaign is about bringing people together and standing up for the ideals and freedoms that make us Americans. This Administration has unnecessarily compromised those freedoms and ideals in the name of fighting terrorism. Through the USA Patriot Act, the Ashcroft Justice Department took advantage of the climate of fear that followed the attacks of September 11 to adopt a series of anti-terror tactics that go far beyond protecting our country and erode the rights of average Americans.

This week, Attorney General Ashcroft is touring the country to build support for his 'Victory Act,' which would expand the Patriot Act. Join me in taking a stand against John Ashcroft's plans by clicking on the link below and signing the petition to stop the passage of the Victory Act:

http://www.deanforamerica.com/stopashcroft

BLACKOUT 2003!

Whoa! OMG! It was certainly a funky 24 to 48 hours! We finally got electricity here in my section of Brooklyn at 3:30pm Friday afternoon. [Turned the A/C on right away.] I was working on my bills at the time in my kitchen, in particular the Con Edison statement. Weird ... huh? Windows wide open and curtains drawn back to let in all the sunlight.

At work, on Thursday, I was in the middle of typing an email to my friend Nancie in DC/VA area when the blackout hit. Our large office building immediately kicked on the generators, so we'd have some lights and have at least two elevators operating. Everyone in the office, after 30 seconds of silence, were like ... "what the f--k?!?" One of the partners I'm currently covering called his wife in NJ and they had no power. Looked out the windows from our 28th floor and no lights anywhere, even the traffic lights were out. Believe it or not, some folk in my office continued to work, while others like me, walked around chatting with co-workers.

Our phones died about 20 minutes after the blackout occured. Before that happened I was able to call my Mom and learned they were blacked out too. My parents live in upstate NY near VT. Also called Josee in Quebue to ask her to check the news on telly. In middle of our call the phone line dies. Stayed at the office until 7:25pm hanging out with co-workers. Whether it was on 28th floor, the building lobby or in the cafeteria [22nd floor for free food & drink]. At one point I was looking out of 28th floor window towards westside and couldn't believe the huge crowd of people waiting outside of Port Authority. No one was letting them in to access buses! [Same held true later on when I was riding crosstown bus and saw the huge crowds outside of Grand Central Station.]

After 7pm the PA announcement [fire warden] said they were shutting down both elevators and basically wanted those who where left to either stay on 8th floor [computer center], lobby or evacuate the building. I choose the latter and glad I did. Waited 10 minutes or so for a crosstown bus on 42nd street, which took me over to the eastside. Then walked down to 34th street and East River. [I was wearing a dress that day with 1 1/2 inch heel sandels. I had sore, swollen feet by time I got home.] From there caught a $3 one-way ferry boat over to Long Island City. While on the ferry boat I got to chatting with a few folk and one nice lady [Cheryl] lent me her cell phone, so I could make a quick call to Mom. Once off the boat in Long Island City I walked down Borden Avenue, then over near Pulaski Bridge, hoping the B61 bus would be running. At the bus stop I learned that no bus had been there for one hour! Chatted with a few ladies and one decided to walk over the bridge with me to our neighborhood. [She lived seven blocks past my place.] Thankfully she had a small, but working flashlight. The walk home was about 30 minutes.

Got to my apartment at 9:30pm and I think I know now how a blind person feels. Groping my way down the pitch-black hallway to my apartment door. Feeling the key holes, inserting keys and then slowly feeling my way into kitchen to get matches to light candles. Quite an experience, let me tell you! At least my phone works and water running so I could take a shower. Man was I sweating! Yuck! Even after opening all the windows my apartment never really cooled off, yah know. [Quickly made a few phone calls.] Seemed like most people were outside until almost midnight. Rough trying to sleep in those conditions, but I managed to get at least 5 hours or so of shut-eye.

Walked around the neighborhood Friday AM and most shops were closed. Ran into John, my neighbor, and we talked about "events". Don't know what I ate Friday, but for 3 hours in the late afternoon to early evening, I had a nasty case of the shits. That wacked me out and I was in bed by 8:30pm. Was feeling much better by Saturday AM. Once the electricity came on I was able to go to ATM, cleaners, do laundry and do some grocery shopping at local health-food store. All while I was feeling ill. On Saturday I took care of more chores, shopping, farmers market, pharmacy, emails, get a manicure/pedicure, etc, etc. Now its sunday and I'm just going to take it easy.

Also, on Thursday, I had a lunch date with a chap who's name is George and is Scottish. [Ate at an Irish Pub in Times Square.] Met him via Yahoo Instant Messenger on the Internet. He's a nice, older chap and we had a nice time. Wasn't romantically attracted to him [no sparks]. His conversation was amusing ... but really have no intentions of seeing him again. Other news ... I finally took the last two exams at work and my overall scores were about average. Plus I applied for two more positions which I hope to interview for shortly at work. Stay tuned.............

Whew! My past work week was very busy [clock in over 2 1/2 hrs OT] with not one, but two assignments and one exam. I think I passed on the exam, but haven't heard back from HR yet. This week I have two more exams to study for and take. Wish there was more news, but sadly there isn't, well, I've been chatting on the phone with a new guy [George]. So maybe that'll lead to something. Had a session with my personal trainer on Thursday and Chiropractor visit on Saturday. Most of the time it was work, work, work.

A first for me this past Friday evening ... I visited the Whitney Museum of American Art here in Manhattan. Friday evenings are great for certain museums ... as they have a policy of "voluntary donation". Meaning you don't have to pay the regular admission fee. If you want to pay a dollar ... go right ahead. In the case of the Whitney, between 6pm and closing at 9pm, you only pay a "voluntary donation". This suits me just fine. Same with the Guggenheim on Friday evenings from 5:30pm until closing at 8:30pm. Don't think the travel books tell you this stuff, but we New Yorkers know all about it. Yeah! Anyhow ... joined my friend Debbie at 6pm to see several cool, funky exhibits at the Whitney. One was called "The American Effect" [how artist & filmmakers perceive US abroad], there was a small exhibit on Edward Hopper and also drawings by Louise Bourgeois. Afterwards we nipped over to a Starbucks for refreshment and conversation.

On Saturday I went up to Yonkers to do my volunteer work at Ferret Shelter. It has been two months since I was last up there and I missed the furkids. One bit of sad news, was that one of the regulars at shelter that I'm fond of passed away a week ago. Poor little Spats didn't recover from surgery or kemo on his Insulomia. I'll miss the little fella. On a bright note, Joanne informed me that Sweet Pea pulled thru on her Adrenal surgery and is doing just fine. She's a hardy oldster and cute little thang. Several adoptable newbies at the shelter that a young and full of energy. Did my usual duties at shelter ... brushing/grooming fur, cleaning ears, play time, giving out treats, filling up water bottles, etc. During tea break Joanne and I caught up on news and gossip, while Mushy sat on my lap.

Now on to political notes & articles et al:

A VOITNG & DEMOCRACY PRIMER
By Don Hazen, AlterNet
http://www.alternet.org/story/html?StoryID=16472

COMPUTER VOTING IS OPEN TO EASY FRAUD, EXPERTS SAY
By John Schwartz, New York Times
http://www.nytimes.com/2003/07/24/technology/24VOTE.html

THE VOTING RIGHTS STRUGGLE OF OUR TIME
By Kim Alexander, AlterNet
http://www.alternet.org/story.html?StoryID=164767

JIM CROW REVIVED IN CYBERSPACE
By Greg Palast & Martin Luther King III, GregPalast.com
http://www.alternet.org/story.html?StoryID=15890

BALLOTS CAN KEEP BULLETS FROM FLYING
By John Moyers & Elizabeth Ready, TomPaine.com
http://www.tompaine.com/feature2.cfm/ID/7605