SOME OF MY RECENT ENTRIES IN THE "365 PROJECT"

SNOWFALL - UPSTATE NY STYLE [Feb 18th & 19th]

DON'T SUPPRESS THE "OCCUPY MOVEMENT"
Support is growing for a non-violent mass actions on Tuesday, February 28 against the suppression and repression of the Occupy Movement, raising the demands "Stand with the Occupy Movement! Don't Suppress OWS.” The General Assembly of Occupy Wall Street, Occupy Chicago, Occupy Cleveland, Occupy Houston, Occupy Minneapolis and Occupy St. Paul reached consensus in support of the Call for Mass Action Against the Suppression of the Occupy Movement, and the February 28 Mass Action.

No Rubber Bullets!
No Beatings!
No Tear Gas!
No Mass Arrests!
Drop All the Charges Against Occupiers!

New York City Union Square 4 pm–Gather 5 pm–Rally 6 pm–March
Chicago LaSalle & Jackson 4 pm–Gather & Rally 5 pm–March
Cleveland Public Square 3 pm–Gather & Rally 4 pm–March
Minneapolis/St. Paul The People’s Plaza 300 South 6th Street, Minneapolis 4:30 pm–Rally & March

Make Tuesday F28 a Day of Mass Action - Now, more than ever, in the wake of the police attack on Occupy Oakland

"...if this illegitimate wave of repression is allowed to stand, if the powers-that-be succeed in suppressing or marginalizing this new movement, if people are once again penned in, both literally and symbolically-things will be much worse. THIS SUPPRESSION MUST BE MASSIVELY OPPOSED AND DEFEATED! A call for mass action against the Suppression of the Occupy Movement", as stated by Bishop George Packard.

Who was first over the fence for OWS? George Packard, a retired Episcopal bishop who was detained by the NYPD while bringing water to the occupiers at Liberty Square, and later arrested in an Occupy Wall Street action, said the action February 28 "is the absolute preface to any other actions. It's a question of process even before we take to the streets--how is it that there is this coordinated effort to stifle our free speech?! Mayors on conference calls simultaneously rousting encampments? Renegade cops taking aggressive initiatives because it makes superiors smile? Tear gas and rubber bullets fired into the ranks of Occupy Oakland? Enough!"

In New York City. . . .
Tuesday, F28 Union Square
No Rubber Bullets - No Beatings
No Tear Gas - No Mass Arrests
Drop All the Charges Against Occupiers
Don't Suppress OWS! Stand with Occupy!
4:00 pm Gather
5:00 pm Rally
6:00 pm March

QUOTE OF THE DAY … “Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter.” - Martin Luther King Jr.

LATEST NEWS TO ROCK THE WORLD

How the 1% Destroy Jobs and the Real Heroes are Everyday People
Lyn Parramore, AlterNet
http://www.alternet.org/story/154153/how_the_1_destroys_jobs_and_the_real_heroes_are_everyday_people?akid=8264.9992.4myOWB&rd=1&t=12
Mitt Romney & Co. want us to think that making the rich richer will create jobs. That's not true. And it's not the American way. For three decades, we have been told that “trickle-down” economics that benefit the wealthy is the key to creating jobs. But that's baloney. The evidence shows that ordinary people, not the rich, are the real job creators.

Is NYPD Running Wild? Patterns of Brutality Raise Questions About Mayor’s Control of Police
Kristen Gwynne, AlterNet
http://www.alternet.org/story/154161/is_nypd_running_wild_patterns_of_brutality_raise_questions_about_mayor%27s_control_of_police?akid=8265.9992.9-vfMe&rd=1&t=2

The New York Times Fear Mongers for War Again, This Time With Iran
http://www.alternet.org/newsandviews/article/794277/the_new_york_times_fear_mongers_for_war_again%2C_this_time_with_iran/

Who Actually Benefits from Federal Benefits?
Kevin Drum, Mother Jones
http://motherjones.com/kevin-drum/2012/02/federal-benefits-able-bodied-workers

Why Obama’s the Least Socialistic President in Modern History (And That’s a Shame)
Richard Eskow, AlterNet
http://www.alternet.org/story/154175/why_obama%27s_the_least_socialistic_president_in_modern_history_%28and_that%27s_a_shame%29?akid=8275.9992.SaY_i7&rd=1&t=5

A Conservative Explains Why Right-Wingers Have No Compassion
Mike Lofgren, TruthOut.org
http://www.alternet.org/story/154194/a_conservative_explains_why_right-wingers_have_no_compassion?akid=8275.9992.SaY_i7&rd=1&t=8

QUOTE OF THE MOMENT … “Let us pray for our children. Our children deserve a world without end. Not a war without end. Our children deserve a world free of the terror of hunger, free of the terror of poor health care, free of the terror of homelessness, free of the terror of ignorance, free of the terror of hopelessness, free of the terror of policies which are committed to a world view which is not appropriate for the survival of a free people, not appropriate for the survival of democratic values, not appropriate for the survival of our nation, and not appropriate for the survival of the world." - Dennis Kucinich, 2/17/02

[DUCHESS NOTE: Someone I hardly know said the following to me in a recent email .... "As you know, we're the complete opposite of you and we don't want anything to do with your "Bush/Cheney" opposition protests, communism, socialism, etc." Good heavens, I am neither a socialist nor a communist, but a Progressive Democrat who's politcal views are NOT extreme leftwing. Also, some months ago, this individual asked that I unfriend her on FB, which I did. So why is this person still trying to "view" my FB page if she dislikes me and my political views?!? (I shared the email, along with my diplomatically correct reply, with some close friends, and they commented that she comes across as very inmature, insecure and misinformed.) Ocasionally, there are posts by some FB friends that I don't always agree with, and I respect their right to freedom of speech. Also, I will never post any hostile comments. I am totally respectful of others views and sensibilities, plus I was raised that "if you have nothing nice to say, then don't say anything". My apologies for the mini rant, I just needed to get that off my chest.]

HOW IS THE NEWS SHAPING UP, SO FAR, IN FEBRUARY

Obama’s Support for Natural Gas Drilling “A Painful Moment” for Communities Exposed to Fracking
Democracy Now!
http://www.democracynow.org/2012/2/2/obamas_support_for_natural_gas_drilling

Moyers – How the Banks Have Rewritten our Economy’s Rules
http://www.alternet.org/newsandviews/article/767670/moyers%3A_how_the_banks_have_rewritten_our_economy%27s_rules/

How Swedes and Norwegians Broke the Power of the ‘1 Percent’
George Lakey, Waging Nonviolence
http://www.alternet.org/story/153929/how_swedes_and_norwegians_broke_the_power_of_the_%E2%80%981_percent%E2%80%99?akid=8187.9992.iTgSjZ&rd=1&t=5

Black Politics Atrophies Under Obama
Glen Ford, Black Agenda Report
http://blackagendareport.com/content/black-politics-atrophies-under-obama

Climate Denial is Creating “The Great Carbon Bubble”
Bill McKibben, TomDispatch.com
http://www.alternet.org/story/154084/bill_mckibben%3A_climate_denial_is_creating_%22the_great_carbon_bubble%22?akid=8239.9992.kxf8h2&rd=1&t=18

The Inside Scoop on the Budding Romance Between Walmart and Monsanto
http://www.alternet.org/newsandviews/article/778245/the_inside_scoop_on_the_budding_romance_between_walmart_and_monsanto/#paragraph3
It turns out that Monsanto is seeking a retail “mate” to sell his latest science experiment, GE sweet corn, and make his fortune doing it. After being turned down by Trader Joe’s, Whole Foods and General Mills, he is setting his sights on the industrial food darling Walmart.

Apple, Accustomed to Profits and Praise, Faces Outcry for Labor Practices at Chinese Factories
Democracy Now!
http://www.alternet.org/newsandviews/article/787777/apple%2C_accustomed_to_profits_and_praise%2C_faces_outcry_for_labor_practices_at_chinese_factories/

QUOTE OF THE DAY … “Human nature is averse to pain and discomfort. We want everything to be smooth. But we don’t grow from staying still. We don’t bring our dreams alive by playing it safe. We don’t get what we want by waiting for God to deliver it to our doorstep. We must embrace difficulty and change if we are to create a fulfilling life for ourselves. If a boat is not rocking, it’s not going anywhere.” – Rabbi Yehuda Berg

On Saturday, Feb 4th, I participated in the demo and national day of action in Times Square regarding “NO War against Iran!” [There were 73 similar actions around the US and the world.] Stating we want a nuclear free Middle East, as well as NO sanctions! NO intervention! NO assassinations! Plus, coming up on Feb 15th, will mark 9th anniversary that I became involved in peace / political activism via that huge global protest against the war and occupation of Iraq.

QUOTE OF THE DAY ... "Information doesn’t make us spiritual. We have to act on it. When someone asks us for help, are we quick to say yes...or no? When a difficult person shows up in our life, do we embrace him/her as someone sent to teach us something, or just another hassle to deal with?Today, think about a teaching that resonates with you. Ask yourself if you are living it. If you are not (or not as much as you can), that’s OK. Recognition is the first step." - Yehuda Berg

PERSONAL NEWS #204

Sunday, Jan 1st, I invited my friend and neighbor over for a leisurely tea, plus we exchanged holiday gifties and caught up on news. Gail also brought along her lovable little doggie Sage.

Tuesday evening, Jan 3rd, I attended the “NYC Friends of Tolkien” gathering at Entwine to celebrate the professors 120th birthday.

Thursday, Jan 5th, I participated in a BFP A&C committee conference call at 3pm. That evening I attended the monthly BFP board meeting held at The Commons.

Friday, Jan 6th, I had an appt with my lung doctor as a follow-up and discuss next phase. Afterwards, I jumped on the subway down to Cobble Hill to pick up flyers for the upcoming WORD event on the 27th.

Saturday, Jan 7th, I had appts with my chiropractor and acupuncturist.

Tuesday, Jan 10th, I had an appt with my foot doctor, and needed to discuss situation regarding ingrown toe nail on left foot. After careful examination and discussion, it was decided a simple surgery would need to be performed on Feb 10th. This surgery wouldn’t be anything like the one I had during the summer of 2009. Afterwards, I stopped by “Books of Wonder” to talk with Sam about “Tolkien Reading Day” event.

Thursday, Jan. 12th, at 2pm I joined the BFP A&C committee conference call to continue our prep work for the Jan 27th event at WORD. That evening I attended a talk and discussion on an article "U.S.-Israeli Assault on Iran Escalates – Danger of War Grows” by Larry Everest at Revolution Books. It was fascinating and informative.

On Friday, Jan. 13th, after work I stopped by Sleepys to pay off the balance [$] for my new mattress.

On Saturday morning, Jan 14th, Dana stopped by to clean my apartment, and while she was here my new Sealy quilted mattress was delivered at 9:20am. Hurray! After many errands, and taking care of two loads of laundry, I headed into Manhattan for an appt with Dr Tan.

Early Sunday evening, Jan 15th, I went to work out at the gym for the first time in 3 ½ months.

Monday, Jan 16th, I had an appt with Dr Tan for acupuncture therapy.

Tuesday evening, Jan 17th, I attended the BFP PF committee meeting, and we continue to work out the details for the upcoming PF in April.

Wednesday evening, Jan 18th, I had dinner with my friend Margaret at a nice Thai place on 9th Avenue near 52nd Street.

Thursday, Jan 19th, at 2pm I joined in on the BFP A&C committee conference call to continue prep work for the Jan 27th event at WORD. That evening I attended the first “Don’t Suppress OWS” planning and strategizing committee meeting to organize a “Call for Mass Action against the Suppression of the Occupy Movement”.

Saturday morning, Jan 21st, I strolled around the neighborhood enjoying the snowfall, taking pix and putting WORD event flyers into mailboxes. In early afternoon I had an appt with Dr Tan for acupuncture therapy.

Sunday afternoon, Jan 22nd, I headed up to White Plains [via MetroNorth] to spend the afternoon with my friend Andi. We had a tasty lunch at PF Changs, discussed Arbonne products, and caught up on other news over tea.

Tuesday, January 24th, I had my annual six month appt with dentist for cleaning. Will go back in a few weeks for X-rays and see what “work” needs to be done. Ugh! In the evening, I rented season one on DVD of the “Downton Abbey” PBS series.

Wednesday, Jan 25th, after work, I had an appt with my chiropractor, and then watched the rest of the “Downton Abbey” series.

Thursday, Jan 26th, I did volunteering for an offsite E&Y event at the Westin Times Square hotel until 4pm. Then in the evening, I attended the “Don’t Suppress OWS” committee meeting at Judson Memorial church. This was our second committee meeting and we were hashing out dates, idea and locations for the “call to action”.

Friday, Jan 27th, I took half a personal day from work to attend a lung doctor appt, and then meet up with Joel to purchase goodies at The Garden for the BFP WORD event. The event itself turned out very well, all the goodies were eaten, and about 50 people were in attendance, which included performers and BFP A&C committee members. The event was well received and we are planning a second one at WORD sometime in the Fall. [Photo: Joel, Veronica and Sandra are part of the BFP A&C committee.]

Saturday evening, Jan 28th, after dealing with chores and errands during the day; I went to the movies with my friend Margaret to see “The Artist”. Really good film and I highly recommend it.

Sunday, Jan 29th, I had an appt with Dr Tan for acupuncture treatment.

Tuesday, Jan 31st, I did volunteer work at the WCW office.

PEACE IS SEXY!
[Created and founded by Marianne Perez - associated with The Peace Alliance and NYDoP]
As many of you know, I have an obsession with shifting mainstream media from a media of violence, competition and conflict to one of community, collaboration and transformation. I am passionate about this because I truly believe that if people can see examples of peace, they can replicate those actions and ultimately we will live in a world that is better for everyone. What could be better than that?

The first installment of the project is now born! Peace Is Sexy has just launched its IndieGoGo fundraising campaign! Peace Is Sexy redefines peace as sexy, possible, profitable and fun by highlighting individuals, organizations, companies and entertainment in an engaging and dynamic way.

We've only got until Feb 12th of our fundraising campaign! You can help in the following ways:

- Donating through IndieGoGo - http://www.indiegogo.com/Peace-Is-Sexy (awesome rewards for all levels of donation). (Thank you to those who have already donated!)
- Help spread the word both about the IndieGoGo campaign and the website by joining the Facebook group:http://www.facebook.com/pages/Peace-is-Sexy/169460713152573?sk=wall , following the campaign on Twitter: @PeaceIsSexy and/or forwarding this posting to anyone who might be interested.
- Being featured on Peace Is Sexy. I am looking for individuals to interview and organizations / companies to profile. Many of you folks are and/or know individuals and/or have projects that projects fit nicely into our editorial theme. Peace on!

FRIDAY Jan 27, 6:30 to 8:00 pm ... Join BFP at the WORD Bookstore in Greenpoint!

The WORD on PEACE

Evening of music, poetry, and spoken-word performances

Presenting: Jan Clausen (Novelist, poet, and professor); Anya Skidan (Greenpoint musician); Rafiq Kathwari (writer/poet and member of Occupy Wall Street’s poetry group); and Susan Metz (poet and Latin America activist)

Location: 126 Franklin Street near Greenpoint Ave (short walk: see map on our website http://www.brooklynpeace.org/)

Sponsor: Brooklyn For Peace Arts & Culture Task Force

Train: G to Greenpoint Ave (at Manhattan) (Transfer from A/C at Hoyt Schermerhorn, from the F at Bergen St, or from L at Lorimer St/Metropolitan Ave)

Admission and Refreshments are Free

This will be a fun event, as well as a great time to support BFP burgeoning Arts & Culture Task Force! Event will be from 6:30 to 8:00 pm, after which you can enjoy the WORD bookstore, as well as check out restaurants and the general ambiance of Greenpoint.

QUOTE OF THE DAY … “When you take a bite of an apple that’s not ripe, perhaps even bitter, the problem isn’t with the apple; the problem is we didn’t wait for the tree to get to the place where the apple is ripe. It’s our timing that is the problem, not the apple itself, nor the tree. This is a powerful message for us, because it makes clear that the only real problem we have is that our process is not yet complete. That means we cannot beat ourselves up because we’re angry, sad or depressed, or because we haven’t reached our goals or benchmarks. We’re just a work in progress. We are the fruit not yet ripe for the picking. Would you cut down a tree because it gives unripe apples? No. You would be patient and have trust in the process.” - YEHUDA BERG

FIRST OFFICIAL SNOWFALL OF WINTER IN BROOKLYN

LATEST IN THE NEWS

The Corporate State Will Be Broken
Chris Hedges, Truthdig / Op-Ed
http://www.truth-out.org/chris-hedges-corporate-state-will-be-broken/1327331237

How Can Communities Defend Themselves From Corporate Interests?
Rose Aguilar, Truthout / Report
http://www.truth-out.org/how-can-communities-defend-themselves-corporate-interests/1327072431

Quote of the Day … “Voting will not alter the corporate systems of power. Voting is an act of political theater. Voting in the United States is as futile and sterile as in the elections I covered as a reporter in dictatorships like Syria, Iran and Iraq. There were always opposition candidates offered up by these dictatorships. Give the people the illusion of choice. Throw up the pretense of debate. Let the power elite hold public celebrations to exalt the triumph of popular will. We can vote for Romney or Obama, but Goldman Sachs and ExxonMobil and Bank of America and the defense contractors always win." - Chris Hedges [journalist & writer]

The Saga of Vermont Yankee – Nuclear Power in the US: a Rigged System
Karl Grossman, Counterpunch
http://www.counterpunch.org/2012/01/23/nuclear-power-in-the-us-a-rigged-system/

Quote of the Day ... "The biggest problem humanity faces isn’t the value of the dollar or the yen; it’s the value of the self. If we don’t think we are someone special, if we are too tough on ourselves, how can we ever expect to accomplish that which we were born to do? If we don’t realize how capable we are, how can we ever expect to make a difference in the world? Without knowing our true value, life is going to be full of chaos. Why? Because we are creating a self-fulfilling, self-limiting prophecy. Today, know you’ve been given everything you need to succeed." - Yehuda Berg

CRAYONS

OR

SHARPIES

My Livingroom

in coloring

book processing

Color
My
World


Colouring
Book
Photo
Version
of
the
Duchess

THE LATEST IN NEWS

Tanks, SWAT Teams, Surveillance Helicopters – Cities Already Turning into Mini-Police States for the Political Conventions
Rania Khalek, AlterNet
http://www.alternet.org/story/153730/tanks%2C_swat_teams%2C_surveillance_helicopters%3A_cities_already_turning_into_mini-police_states_for_the_political_conventions?akid=8115.9992.aqHOsM&rd=1&t=5

Barricades Come Down at Zuccotti Park, Protesters Re-Occupy
http://www.alternet.org/newsandviews/article/761266/barricades_come_down_at_zuccotti_park%2C_protesters_re-occupy/#paragraph4

Tumultuous Times for Democracy Compelled Moyers' Return to TV http://www.commondreams.org/view/2012/01/10-1

Why the New Hampshire Primary is an Elaborate Reality Show Designed for National Media
Adele M. Stan, AtlerNet
http://www.alternet.org/story/153721/why_the_new_hampshire_primary_is_an_elaborate_reality_show_designed_for_national_media?akid=8105.9992.QmKeJW&rd=1&t=8

Quote of the Day … Some days we will be happier than others. And some periods of time we will be more successful than other times. The key to real success is to be the best you can be in any situation, and never assume you’ve arrived. – Yehuda Berg

The 20 Biggest Donors of the 2012 Election (So Far)
Dave Gilson & Gavin Aronsen, Mother Jones
http://www.alternet.org/story/153728/the_20_biggest_donors_of_the_2012_election_%28so_far%29?akid=8115.9992.aqHOsM&rd=1&t=8

America Isn’t a Corporation
Paul Krugman, NYTimes
http://www.nytimes.com/2012/01/13/opinion/krugman-america-isnt-a-corporation.html?_r=3&smid=fb-nytimes&WT.mc_id=OP-E-FB-SM-LIN-AIC-011312-NYT-NA&WT.mc_ev=click

Fracking on Shaky Ground – How Our Latest Fossil Fuel Addiction is Linked to Earthquakes
Scott Thill, AlterNet
http://www.alternet.org/story/153717/fracking_on_shaky_ground%3A_how_our_latest_fossil_fuel_addiction_is_linked_to_earthquakes?akid=8105.9992.QmKeJW&rd=1&t=5

5 Founding Fathers Whose Skepticism About Christianity Would Make Them Unelectable Today
Rob Boston, AlterNet
http://www.alternet.org/story/153727/5_founding_fathers_whose_skepticism_about_christianity_would_make_them_unelectable_today?akid=8109.9992.Q-Q0HM&rd=1&t=2

Why are Republican Prudes Still Desperate to Control Your Sex Life?
Tracy Clark-Flory, Salon
http://www.alternet.org/story/153731/why_are_republican_prudes_still_desperate_to_control_your_sex_life?akid=8109.9992.Q-Q0HM&rd=1&t=15

The WORD on Peace - Upcoming BFP Peace Performance Series

On Friday, January 27, 2012, the Arts & Culture Committee of Brooklyn For Peace will host "The WORD On Peace", an evening of music, poetry and spoken-word performances at WORD Bookstore in Greenpoint [Brooklyn].

"The WORD On Peace" is the second of the ongoing Peace Performance Series presented by the Brooklyn for Peace Arts & Culture Committee, of which I am a member and co-chair.

Where: WORD Bookstore, 126 Franklin Street, Brooklyn, NY 11222 ... www.wordbrooklyn.com

Time: 6:30 – 8:00pm

There will be snacks and beverages.

With the ongoing Occupy movement changing the focus and possibilities of the peace and justice movement in New York and around the world, the Arts & Culture Committee wants to encourage a culture of peace and creativity to flourish and grow in Brooklyn. We will celebrate the growing movement with an evening of performances, including novelist and professor Jan Clausen; Greenpoint musician Anya Skidan; and writer/poet and member of Occupy Wall Street’s poetry group, Rafiq Kathwari, plus two other performers.

THE ANNUAL "JRR TOLKIEN BIRTHDAY TOAST" ON JAN 3RD AT ENTWINE

CHRISTMAS DECOR IN MY BROOKLYN NEIGHBORHOOD

PERSONAL NEWS #203

Thursday, Dec 1st, I attended the monthly BFP board meeting at The Commons.

Friday, Dec 2nd, I was asked to assist with an important EY client meeting, and had to arrive on location by 6am. Due to being at an EY event so early, I was able to leave the office between 3pm and 4pm. I met up with Sam [photo below] at 4pm for a brief photo shoot around Bryant Park, and then dinner at El Rio Grande on 3rd Avenue.

Dec 3rd & 4th … wasn’t particularly exciting weekend for me, as I had to cancel plans due to continued illness and stay home. Dana came by Saturday morning to clean my apt, and I took care of a few errands. One of those errands was to rent some DVDs [Foyle’s War] for the weekend.

Tuesday, Dec 6th, I had another follow up appt with my lung specialist, as this friggin situation is just NOT going away. Grrrrrrrrrrrr It is time for alternative medicine and visiting an acupuncturist down in ole Chinatown.

Wednesday evening, Dec 7th, I did volunteer work at the WCW national office.

Saturday, Dec 10th, I attended a gathering at friend’s home, hosted by “NYC Friends of Tolkien”, to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the UK premiere of FOTR. [photo below]

Tuesday, Dec 13th, I took a vacation day and hung out with my friend Sheila in the afternoon. We had lunch and then did some holiday shopping at the GCS Holiday Bazaar. That evening I joined fellow BFP Peace Fair committee members for our monthly meeting at Charlotte’s place.

Thursday, Dec 15th, I did volunteer work at the WCW national office.

Friday, Dec 16th, I attended the annual BFP holiday gathering in Brooklyn. [photo below]

Saturday, Dec 17th, I volunteered with other BFP members at the BSEC holiday event.

Sunday, Dec 18th, I had my first appt with Dr Tan down in Chinatown.

Wednesday, Dec 21st, I participated in the BFP A&C committee conference call in the evening. It was a really good call and very productive for our upcoming January event.

Thursday, Dec 22nd, I did volunteer work at WCW national office.

Dec 23rd – 26th, I visited my family in upstate NY for the Xmas holiday.

Dec 24th, turned out to be an interesting day, not just because it was Christmas Eve. Day started out with me getting my hair done at the local salon, then back at the house to get things ready to bring down to my brothers home for a nice meal and exchange gifties. Well, that was the plan, until I started coughing up blood into paper towels halfway to Schenectady. My parents and I turned around to head to Bennington hospital emergency room. Fastest time ever spent at an emergency room. Was there for 2 ½ hours and learned that I have a mild case [again!] of Pneumonia, plus that friggin Bronchiectasis was the cause of the blood issues. Thankfully all my vitals were good and I didn’t have to stay at the hospital for the holidays. Before leaving I had to take a new, stronger antibiotics and assured [we’ll see] that I would see results in 24 to 48 hours. Went to RiteAid to get my prescription filled and was told my insurance card was rejected. What?!? I had to pay full price for those nine friggin antibiotics and that came to $179!! Most annoying, and rest of the day was spent at my parent’s home relaxing, and watching cable TV.

Monday, Dec 26th, I had my second appt with Dr Tan down in Chinatown. I told him about what happened on Xmas Eve, utilizing the herbs and eating as he prescribed. He did an exam and told me that my system is slowly improving. No herbs for this week, but more acupuncture treatment on today and Thursday.

Wednesday, Dec 28th, I did volunteer work at WCW national office.

Thursday, Dec 29th, I had my third appt with Dr Tan down in Chinatown.

Friday, Dec 30th, started off with a much needed appt with my chiropractor, as it had been two months since last adjustment. Then I met up with Jackie in the afternoon to hangout, go shopping, enjoy a leisurely dinner and exchange holiday gifties.

New Years Eve, Dec 31st, I took care of errands, got a pedicure and rented several DVDs [ie: Ironman, Sherlock Holmes, 5th season of LOST].

DECEMBER NEWS

Revolutions Don’t Happen in a Day – 5 Ways OWS Can Stay Powerful and Truly Build a Movement
Yotam Marom, AlterNet
http://www.alternet.org/story/153529/revolutions_don%27t_happen_in_a_day%3A_5_ways_ows_can_stay_powerful_and_truly_build_a_movement?akid=8033.9992.R1aP5x&rd=1&t=24

Our Rallying Cry Should Be, “We Own Wall Street and We Can Stop Corporate America’s Worst Behavior”
Eliot Spitzer, Slate
http://www.alternet.org/story/153535/eliot_spitzer%3A_our_rallying_cry_should_be_%22we_own_wall_street%2C_and_we_can_stop_corporate_america%27s_worst_behavior%22?akid=8033.9992.R1aP5x&rd=1&t=2

GOP Voter Suppression Plan – Seven Tactics to Block Your Vote in 2012
Steven Rosenfeld, AlterNet
http://www.alternet.org/story/153509/gop_voter_suppression_plan%3A_seven_tactics_to_block_your_vote_in_2012?akid=8039.9992._LDQyk&rd=1&t=2

How Can the World’s Richest Country Let Children go Hungry? 6 Tricks Corporate Elites Use to Hoard ALL the Wealth
Les Leopold, AlterNet
America is filthy rich, but the money is hidden away by the 1% while poverty rises all around.
http://www.alternet.org/story/153531/how_can_the_world%27s_richest_country_let_children_starve_6_tricks_corporate_elites_use_to_hoard_all_the_wealth?akid=8044.9992.c3EnyH&rd=1&t=5

The 99% Versus Wall Street – Stephen Lerner on How We Can Mobilize to be the Greedy 1%’s Worst Nightmare
Sarah Jaffe, AlterNet
http://www.alternet.org/story/153541/the_99_versus_wall_street%3A_stephen_lerner_on_how_we_can_mobilize_to_be_the_greedy_1%27s_worst_nightmare?akid=8044.9992.c3EnyH&rd=1&t=2

10 Winning Moments for the 99% in 2011
Sarah Jaffe, AlterNet
http://www.alternet.org/story/153548/10_winning_moments_for_the_99_in_2011?akid=8055.9992.oU7047&rd=1&t=5

7 of the Nastiest Scams, Rip-Offs and Tricks from Wall Street Crooks
Dave Johnson, AlterNet
http://www.alternet.org/story/153530/7_of_the_nastiest_scams%2C_rip-offs_and_tricks_from_wall_street_crooks?akid=8055.9992.oU7047&rd=1&t=2

The Dark Side of Reforestation Programs – Planting 7,000 Trees a Day in Brutal Conditions
Brittany Shoot, AlterNet
http://www.alternet.org/story/153442/the_dark_side_of_reforestation_programs%3A_planting_7%2C000_trees_a_day_in_brutal_conditions?akid=8053.9992.E7w2Js&rd=1&t=27

HOLIDAY CELEBRATIONS WITH MEMBERS OF "Brooklyn for Peace" ON DEC 16th

CHRISTMAS UP AT THE FAMILY HOMESTEAD [Dec 23 to 26]

ABIT OF NEWS TO ROCK YOUR WORLD

Bail-Out Bombshell: Fed “Emergency” Bank Rescue Totaled $29 Trillion Over Three Years
Andres Felkerson, AlterNet
http://www.alternet.org/story/153462/bail-out_bombshell%3A_fed_%22emergency%22_bank_rescue_totaled_%2429_trillion_over_three_years?akid=8002.9992.BHecgm&rd=1&t=2

Ehrenreich: The Truth Exposed by Occupy Shows that the Real Elites are the Thieves of the 1%, not the Liberals of Conservative Myth
Barbara & John Ehrenreich, The Nation
http://www.alternet.org/story/153452/ehrenreich%3A_the_truth_exposed_by_occupy_shows_that_the_real_elites_are_the_thieves_of_the_1%2C_not_the_liberals_of_conservative_myth?akid=8002.9992.BHecgm&rd=1&t=5

NO, The U.S. is NOT Leaving Iraq
Justin Elliott, World News Daily ICH
http://www.informationclearinghouse.info/article30020.htm

The Best, Worst and Most Overlooked Food Stories of 2011
Ari LeVaux, AlterNet
http://www.alternet.org/story/153473/the_best%2C_worst_and_most_overlooked_food_stories_of_2011?akid=8014.9992.ukud9C&rd=1&t=2

Obama Reverses Himself: Administration Won’t Veto ‘Global Battlefield’ Indefinite Detentions Measure
Steven Rosenfeld, AlterNet
http://www.alternet.org/story/153450/obama_reverses_himself%3A_administration_won%27t_veto_%27global_battlefield%27_indefinite_detentions_measure?akid=8003.9992.F0X-Pw&rd=1&t=5

The Fracking Industry Has Bought Off Congress – Here are the Worst Offenders
Scott Thill, AlterNet
http://www.alternet.org/story/153467/the_fracking_industry_has_bought_off_congress%3A_here_are_the_worst_offenders?akid=8014.9992.ukud9C&rd=1&t=8

6 Stories That You May Have Missed From the Occupy Movement
Lauren Kelley, AlterNet
http://www.alternet.org/story/153472/6_stories_that_you_may_have_missed_from_the_occupy_movement_?akid=8014.9992.ukud9C&rd=1&t=5

Obama: A Disaster for Civil Liberties
Los Angeles Times Op-Ed
http://www.latimes.com/news/opinion/commentary/la-oe-turley-civil-liberties-20110929,0,7542436.story

"NYC FRIENDS OF TOLKIEN" Gather on Dec 10th to Celebrate the 10th Anniversary of the London Premiere of "Fellowship of the Ring" at a members home in Manhattan

LATEST IN THE NEWS

6 Shocking Revelations About Wall Street’s “Secret Government”
Les Leopold, AlterNet
Top officials willfully concealed the true extent of the 2008/2009 bailouts from Congress and the public.
http://www.alternet.org/story/153274/6_shocking_revelations_about_wall_street%27s_secret_government?akid=7928.9992.tbdq9Z&rd=1&t=2

Thanks to Nurses Union and Occupy Wall Street, Pressure for Wall Street Speculation Tax Grows
Sarah Jaffe, AtlerNet
http://www.alternet.org/story/153276/thanks_to_nurses_union_and_occupy_wall_street%2C_pressure_for_wall_street_speculation_tax_grows?akid=7928.9992.tbdq9Z&rd=1&t=15

Our Right to Privacy has Been Systematically Shrunk. What’s Left?
Patricia J. Williams, The Nation
http://www.alternet.org/story/153233/our_right_to_privacy_has_been_systematically_shrunk._what%27s_left?akid=7933.9992.eTUuFw&rd=1&t=8

What if They Sent in Social Services to Help Occupations Instead of Riot Cops to Bust Heads?
Joshua Holland, AlterNet
http://www.alternet.org/story/153257/what_if_they_sent_in_social_services_to_help_occupations_instead_of_riot_cops_to_bust_heads?akid=7933.9992.eTUuFw&rd=1&t=15

GOP Eager to Squelch Student Voters
http://www.alternet.org/newsandviews/article/742938/gop_eager_to_squelch_student_voters/#paragraph3

Zuccotti Park’s Owners Owe New York City $139,000 in Back Taxes
http://www.alternet.org/newsandviews/article/743421/zuccotti_park%27s_owners_owe_new_york_city_%24139%2C000_in_back_taxes/#paragraph4

20 Ways the Obama Administration Has Intruded on Your Rights
Bill Quigley, AlterNet
http://www.alternet.org/story/153283/20_ways_the_obama_administration_has_intruded_on_your_rights?akid=7939.82266.jXaZ8n&rd=1&t=15

PERSONAL NEWS #202

Thursday, Nov 3rd, I had an appt with my foot doctor, and afterwards headed into Brooklyn for the monthly BFP board meeting.

Saturday, Nov 5th, I hosted a HP/LOTR/GofT gathering at Casa Charlene which started shortly after 3pm and ended around 9:30pm. Really good gathering and enjoyed it so much with Linda, Debbie, Margaret, Jenna, Carole, Beth and Sam. We partook of wine, delicious food, had a fun raffle and the diverse conversations were great. Some of them got abit passionate; especially regarding the “relationship” between Aunt Petunia and Harry. Afterwards Sam stuck around to help me clean up the apt, and over tea we discussed photography and other interesting topics. Hum, if I’d been feeling 100% better, well, he’d never have left that night. [wink wink]

Sunday, Nov 6th, I watched part of the NYC marathon, which goes through my neighborhood as it heads towards Queens. Another sunny day though abit on the cool side. Early in the afternoon I headed over to WORD to talk with Jenn [event coordinator] about an event that BFP A&C committee will be hosting end of January 2012 at the bookstore.

Monday evening, Nov 7th, I did abit of volunteering at the WCW national office helping out with a large mailing.

Tuesday evening, Nov 8th, I hosted the 4th meeting of the BFP A&C committee at Casa Charlene, and it was quite productive.

Wednesday, Nov 9th, I took a personal day from work so that I could go to doctor appts in my neighborhood. The furballs were hurling fast and furious in the AM, but by the PM less so with new meds I am on. Was suppose to attend the BFP PF committee meeting in the evening at 7pm, but due to the side effects of the cough syrup with Codeine, well, I had to participate via conf call.

Thursday evening, Nov 10th, I did abit of volunteering at the WCW national office helping out with a large mailing.

Weekend of Nov 12/13 ... wasn’t particularly exciting for me, as I had to cancel plans due to continued illness and stay home. This meant I missed out on seeing the Quidditch World Cup #V at Randall’s Island, but the NYC HP team did really well. I did purchase the final HP film [DH2] on Saturday and watched it several times over the weekend, plus get a much needed pedicure and take care of BFP responsibilities.

Monday, Nov 14th, I took a vacation day from work so that I could go to doctor appts in my neighborhood. Had many tests done and the chest/lung X-ray came back not looking too bad, though Richheimer said Abbot would be able to make a better diagnosis during my upcoming Friday appt. We are still awaiting the test results for stomach sonogram, blood work and urine sample. I am now on Maalox and Omeprazole for this friggin “acid reflux”, which is wreaking havoc on my stomach. Need to suppress it or cure it, so that I can eat bland food and keep it down. How exciting ... not!

Friday, Nov 18th, I had a follow up appt with my lung specialist [Abbot] and learned the previous lung infection is gone, but has been replaced with a mild case of pneumonia, plus I am still experiencing acid reflux. So have new antibiotics to zap the pneumonia and stay indoors all weekend. Just as well, cause dang; it was a windy and cold evening. [Plus, stayed in over the weekend for some much needed R&R, plus had to cancel commitments due to health.] Around 9:30pm that same evening, I participated in the BFP A&C committee conference call regarding our upcoming event at BC on Dec 6th. It’s shaping up quite nicely.

Tuesday, Nov 22nd, I had a follow up appt with my lung doctor, and he said I was improving, but still needed to take it easy over the Thanksgiving holiday weekend.

Friday – Sunday, Nov 25 / 27, I spent the remainder of the Thanksgiving weekend up at my parents homestead in upstate NY. Mom and I watched the “Indiana Jones” movie trilogy marathon on the 26th, plus a mini marathon of “The Big Bang Theory” episodes. I got my hair done at salon, plus a wee bit of Xmas shopping at local, small businesses, plus, on the 25th, we visited my brother and sister-in-law in Schenectady. Other than that, the rest of the time there was very laid back and low key.