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!
A PLACE WHERE I EXPRESS MY THOUGHTS AND OPINIONS ON MUSIC, LIFE, EVENTS, TRAVEL, NEWS, PEACE MOVEMENT, POLITICS AND EVEN MOVIES
Thursday, August 28, 2003
Wednesday, August 27, 2003
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...............
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...............
Tuesday, August 26, 2003
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
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
Monday, August 25, 2003
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.............
*****************************
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]
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.............
*****************************
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]
Saturday, August 23, 2003
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. :-)
Thursday, August 21, 2003
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!
Wednesday, August 20, 2003
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....................
Tuesday, August 19, 2003
[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
*************************
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
Sunday, August 17, 2003
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.............
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.............
Monday, August 11, 2003
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.
Sunday, August 03, 2003
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
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
Friday, August 01, 2003
Another work week is coming to a close here in bustling, noicy, crowded Times Square. When leaving the office at lunch time or to go home, one has to deal with crowds of tourists, theater-goers and other office workers like me. As one of my co-workers terms it ... a constant parade of humanity & never a dull moment. As to work itself ... its been interesting, busy and a few hiccups along the way. I'm glad its Friday ... amen! Other bits of gossipy office news ... lots of attractive men in this firm ... woohoo! Plus, I also notice many married, pregnant gals who work for the firm. Yep, lots of couples are populating the NYC area with newborns. Getting a better handle on the elevator workings, office layout and routine of the large cafeteria.
Yesterday evening, after my one-hour session with personal trainer, I'm walking to the subway down Lexington Avenue when I had a brief "celebrity" sighting. Well, she's not a big celeb, but relatively known on television since the early 1970s. I'm waiting at an intersection for the light to change, so that I can cross, when I hear three people chatting behind me. Nothing wrong with that, but I recognized the one voice. So I casually glance around and did a double take, cause I recognized the woman. She's got one of those voices that is, as far as I'm concerned, very distinctive. Talks that way onscreen and off. It was Georgia Engel, who played Ted Baxter's wife [Georgette] on the hit 1970s tv series "The Mary Tyler Moore Show". Nowadays she's no longer the bubbly looking blonde. She seems more matronly with short honey colored hair. Have no idea who the two people were that she was with or talking too.
Other news ... awaiting my order of Pearl Jam MSG CD boots from 10 Club. And tomorrow its ferret shelter day up in Yonkers. Hurray! On that note, must sign off and get back to work, as lunch hour is complete.
Yesterday evening, after my one-hour session with personal trainer, I'm walking to the subway down Lexington Avenue when I had a brief "celebrity" sighting. Well, she's not a big celeb, but relatively known on television since the early 1970s. I'm waiting at an intersection for the light to change, so that I can cross, when I hear three people chatting behind me. Nothing wrong with that, but I recognized the one voice. So I casually glance around and did a double take, cause I recognized the woman. She's got one of those voices that is, as far as I'm concerned, very distinctive. Talks that way onscreen and off. It was Georgia Engel, who played Ted Baxter's wife [Georgette] on the hit 1970s tv series "The Mary Tyler Moore Show". Nowadays she's no longer the bubbly looking blonde. She seems more matronly with short honey colored hair. Have no idea who the two people were that she was with or talking too.
Other news ... awaiting my order of Pearl Jam MSG CD boots from 10 Club. And tomorrow its ferret shelter day up in Yonkers. Hurray! On that note, must sign off and get back to work, as lunch hour is complete.
Thursday, July 31, 2003
Pearl Jam Concert
Madison Square Garden
July 9, 2003
Following an afternoon of touring Wall Street/Battery Park area, stopping by my office and a brief visit to Times Square [saw radio DJ Cousin Brucie] … Josee, Michelle and I headed down to MSG. We placed voicemail messages to Erica and Andrea’s cell phones in hoping to meet up before entering the venue. We heard back from Erica, but couldn’t find her outside, so went in about 7pm. Again we agreed to meet up after concert in MSG lobby. This time I went with Michelle and Josee went her way. Shortly before entering the venue, Josee sold her extra 10 Club tix to a nice chap from NJ. Michelle was hunting down a particular t-shirt. So we hit most of the vendors, but sadly the t-shirt she wanted was sold out.
At our seats, which were pretty decent, we spotted Josee in her seat across venue from us and waved. We also spotted Erica in her front row seat and called her on cell phone. Michelle asked her if she would stop by Josee’s seat and inquire about t-shirt, then she walked over near our area and we talked abit on the stairs. She went to see “Phantom of the Opera” matinee with her step mom earlier. Which she enjoyed. Still no word from Andrea and I was getting concerned.
It was close to 7:30pm and Sleater-Kinney was the opening group. Their okay … personally I thought the Buzzcocks were more entertaining. Anyhow, 45 minute set later and done. Now comes the 30-minute wait, while the roadies set up the stage for Pearl Jam.
Lights go down, 19,000 fans rise as one, as well as letting out collective screams of joy and its show time! Hell yeah!
OMG! They started the concert with CRAZY MARY. We fans get to hear this cool song again, as they’d played it the night before. As Boom Gaspar starts ripping into a groovy keyboard solo, Michelle and I are hoping that Mike [lead guitar] would stroll over and do a musical duet or duel. We flipped out when he does stroll over, cause he didn’t the night before. Next song up is the fast paced SAVE YOU. The next few songs [ie: HAIL HAIL, WHIPPING & CORDUROY] have the whole venue going berserk. Totally! Michelle and I are dancing our asses off. We be in happy mode! Next up is one of those Pearl Jam songs I’ve been wanting to hear in concert ever since I purchased “Live on Two Legs” cassette back in 2000. RED MOSQUITO! WooHoo! Next up was DISSIDENT and I AM MINE, which had many from the crowd singing along. Then another song from “Riot Act” called GET RIGHT, followed by one of my favs … GIVEN TO FLY. It was breathtaking. They kick into EVACUATION, which isn’t a fav of mine, but the next song is … EVEN FLOW. Long, killer guitar solo by Mike, who is again on fire this evening.
Eddie called Johnny Ramone, but he wasn’t home to hear the next song [Ramone’s I BELIEVE IN MIRACLES], so we left him a message. [ie: “Johnny, its me Ed, why the fuck aren’t you home.”] That was amusing, seeing Eddie on a cell phone during mid-concert. The next two songs [MFC & DEEP] were a great addition to the gig and kept things rockin. This was followed by two fav songs of mine from the Pearl Jam catalog, PRESENT TENSE and NOTHINGMAN. Especially the latter song … it was sooo good. Sigh! Couldn’t tell what next song was by its intro, but knew it was a rare good song cause Michelle was going nuts. She yells in my ear … STATE OF LOVE & TRUST. Wow! Then rounding off the set the ever-popular PORCH. The guys played a great jam set during it with Eddie wandering around the stage.
Then the guys depart stage for a “break”. The crowd [us devoted fans] wants more and we scream and stomp up a fuss. MSG is vibrating! This crowd was just as intense as the night before. Long live rock! After about five minutes or so Eddie comes out on stage. He talks for abit about different stuff, reads fans signs [ie: “Play LEACH U Pussies”] before singing a Beatle tune … YOU’VE GOT TO HIDE YOUR LOVE AWAY. Then the rest of the band came out on stage and jumped into another fav song of mine … ELDERLY WOMAN IN A SMALL TOWN. OMG! Can’t believe it … they did GLORIFIED G! Another 10 Club fan fav. Eddie does abit more talking and they do ALL OR NONE. Which they first performed live up at the Albany show I attended back in April. This time around it sounds so much better. It’s a slower, blues type of song. Several folk in the crowd head out to concession stand for beer during this time. Makes no sense to me … I wouldn’t want to miss any moments of the show. Next up is DO THE EVOLUTION … which seems to be another crowd pleaser. And finally … last song of 1st encore … ALIVE! Yeah baby … this song totally kicks ass in concert and the whole crowd is responding in loud unison. Gives me goosebumps! Plus I try to imagine what it’s like for the band on stage when entire crowd is screaming YEAH on the backbeats of this awesome song.
Another break, only abit shorter than last one. And they come back out to do a 2nd encore and start with GO. Hell yeah! Then Eddie talks briefly about the Clash and late Joe Strummer, before the band does a groovy version of KNOW YOUR RIGHTS. Right-on! OMG! A song I’ve been wanting to hear live for quite some time … KEEP ON ROCKING IN THE FREE WORLD. The band [ie: Jeff is jumping, bouncing & spinning all over the stage] and crowd are whooping it up. If you stand still for about 30 to 60 seconds you can feel the floor vibrating. Whoa! Its an event and we’re all totally into it. And finally, the closing song of the evening, yep, you guessed it … YELLOW LEDBETTER. During the closing guitar solo that Mike rips off, the rest of the band sit around watching and listening. An awesome moment, to be sure, then they all line up on stage and bow to the audience. Sweet! What a terrific show!
Michelle and I make our way down to the lobby to meet up with Josee and Erica. We’re all happy, smiling and chatting with others. After awhile Erica takes off for her hotel and we all stroll outside to locate Andrea. Using cell phones we finally hook up outside MSG. Andrea is with her friend Tieran and they showed up 10 minutes or so into Pearl Jam set. We’re all standing around on sidewalk chatting, gossiping, drinking soda/water from a street vendor and taking group pix. Lots of fun! We part company shortly after 12:30am and head to our respective transportation. There is talk; even Eddie mentioned it, that the band will do a mini tour next summer. Damn … I sure hope so!
Madison Square Garden
July 9, 2003
Following an afternoon of touring Wall Street/Battery Park area, stopping by my office and a brief visit to Times Square [saw radio DJ Cousin Brucie] … Josee, Michelle and I headed down to MSG. We placed voicemail messages to Erica and Andrea’s cell phones in hoping to meet up before entering the venue. We heard back from Erica, but couldn’t find her outside, so went in about 7pm. Again we agreed to meet up after concert in MSG lobby. This time I went with Michelle and Josee went her way. Shortly before entering the venue, Josee sold her extra 10 Club tix to a nice chap from NJ. Michelle was hunting down a particular t-shirt. So we hit most of the vendors, but sadly the t-shirt she wanted was sold out.
At our seats, which were pretty decent, we spotted Josee in her seat across venue from us and waved. We also spotted Erica in her front row seat and called her on cell phone. Michelle asked her if she would stop by Josee’s seat and inquire about t-shirt, then she walked over near our area and we talked abit on the stairs. She went to see “Phantom of the Opera” matinee with her step mom earlier. Which she enjoyed. Still no word from Andrea and I was getting concerned.
It was close to 7:30pm and Sleater-Kinney was the opening group. Their okay … personally I thought the Buzzcocks were more entertaining. Anyhow, 45 minute set later and done. Now comes the 30-minute wait, while the roadies set up the stage for Pearl Jam.
Lights go down, 19,000 fans rise as one, as well as letting out collective screams of joy and its show time! Hell yeah!
OMG! They started the concert with CRAZY MARY. We fans get to hear this cool song again, as they’d played it the night before. As Boom Gaspar starts ripping into a groovy keyboard solo, Michelle and I are hoping that Mike [lead guitar] would stroll over and do a musical duet or duel. We flipped out when he does stroll over, cause he didn’t the night before. Next song up is the fast paced SAVE YOU. The next few songs [ie: HAIL HAIL, WHIPPING & CORDUROY] have the whole venue going berserk. Totally! Michelle and I are dancing our asses off. We be in happy mode! Next up is one of those Pearl Jam songs I’ve been wanting to hear in concert ever since I purchased “Live on Two Legs” cassette back in 2000. RED MOSQUITO! WooHoo! Next up was DISSIDENT and I AM MINE, which had many from the crowd singing along. Then another song from “Riot Act” called GET RIGHT, followed by one of my favs … GIVEN TO FLY. It was breathtaking. They kick into EVACUATION, which isn’t a fav of mine, but the next song is … EVEN FLOW. Long, killer guitar solo by Mike, who is again on fire this evening.
Eddie called Johnny Ramone, but he wasn’t home to hear the next song [Ramone’s I BELIEVE IN MIRACLES], so we left him a message. [ie: “Johnny, its me Ed, why the fuck aren’t you home.”] That was amusing, seeing Eddie on a cell phone during mid-concert. The next two songs [MFC & DEEP] were a great addition to the gig and kept things rockin. This was followed by two fav songs of mine from the Pearl Jam catalog, PRESENT TENSE and NOTHINGMAN. Especially the latter song … it was sooo good. Sigh! Couldn’t tell what next song was by its intro, but knew it was a rare good song cause Michelle was going nuts. She yells in my ear … STATE OF LOVE & TRUST. Wow! Then rounding off the set the ever-popular PORCH. The guys played a great jam set during it with Eddie wandering around the stage.
Then the guys depart stage for a “break”. The crowd [us devoted fans] wants more and we scream and stomp up a fuss. MSG is vibrating! This crowd was just as intense as the night before. Long live rock! After about five minutes or so Eddie comes out on stage. He talks for abit about different stuff, reads fans signs [ie: “Play LEACH U Pussies”] before singing a Beatle tune … YOU’VE GOT TO HIDE YOUR LOVE AWAY. Then the rest of the band came out on stage and jumped into another fav song of mine … ELDERLY WOMAN IN A SMALL TOWN. OMG! Can’t believe it … they did GLORIFIED G! Another 10 Club fan fav. Eddie does abit more talking and they do ALL OR NONE. Which they first performed live up at the Albany show I attended back in April. This time around it sounds so much better. It’s a slower, blues type of song. Several folk in the crowd head out to concession stand for beer during this time. Makes no sense to me … I wouldn’t want to miss any moments of the show. Next up is DO THE EVOLUTION … which seems to be another crowd pleaser. And finally … last song of 1st encore … ALIVE! Yeah baby … this song totally kicks ass in concert and the whole crowd is responding in loud unison. Gives me goosebumps! Plus I try to imagine what it’s like for the band on stage when entire crowd is screaming YEAH on the backbeats of this awesome song.
Another break, only abit shorter than last one. And they come back out to do a 2nd encore and start with GO. Hell yeah! Then Eddie talks briefly about the Clash and late Joe Strummer, before the band does a groovy version of KNOW YOUR RIGHTS. Right-on! OMG! A song I’ve been wanting to hear live for quite some time … KEEP ON ROCKING IN THE FREE WORLD. The band [ie: Jeff is jumping, bouncing & spinning all over the stage] and crowd are whooping it up. If you stand still for about 30 to 60 seconds you can feel the floor vibrating. Whoa! Its an event and we’re all totally into it. And finally, the closing song of the evening, yep, you guessed it … YELLOW LEDBETTER. During the closing guitar solo that Mike rips off, the rest of the band sit around watching and listening. An awesome moment, to be sure, then they all line up on stage and bow to the audience. Sweet! What a terrific show!
Michelle and I make our way down to the lobby to meet up with Josee and Erica. We’re all happy, smiling and chatting with others. After awhile Erica takes off for her hotel and we all stroll outside to locate Andrea. Using cell phones we finally hook up outside MSG. Andrea is with her friend Tieran and they showed up 10 minutes or so into Pearl Jam set. We’re all standing around on sidewalk chatting, gossiping, drinking soda/water from a street vendor and taking group pix. Lots of fun! We part company shortly after 12:30am and head to our respective transportation. There is talk; even Eddie mentioned it, that the band will do a mini tour next summer. Damn … I sure hope so!
Tuesday, July 29, 2003
US NOBEL LAUREATE SLAMS BUSH GOVERNMENT AS WORST IN AMERICAN HISTORY. Article from Der Spiegel magazine, which is based in Berlin. Here is the link ... check it out if you wish:
http://www.commondreams.org/headlines03/0729-06.htm
***************************
"Will Congress Impeach George Bush over WMDs?"
By Mark Dunlea
The Albany Times Union
July 9, 2003
http://www.commondreams.org/views03/0709-04.htm
***************************
HOLD BUSH ACCOUNTABLE
If President Bush won't stand up and take responsibility for himself, then the American people will have to do it for him. If you haven't already signed the petition calling for an independent, bipartisan investigation into President Bush's statements in the State of the Union address, sign it today.
http://mailer.democrats.org/rdr/002L701IMo0001F
And be sure to forward this message on to your friends to help spread the word that it's time for President Bush to stand up and take responsibility for the words that come out of his mouth.
http://mailer.democrats.org/rdr/002L701IMo0001G
http://www.commondreams.org/headlines03/0729-06.htm
***************************
"Will Congress Impeach George Bush over WMDs?"
By Mark Dunlea
The Albany Times Union
July 9, 2003
http://www.commondreams.org/views03/0709-04.htm
***************************
HOLD BUSH ACCOUNTABLE
If President Bush won't stand up and take responsibility for himself, then the American people will have to do it for him. If you haven't already signed the petition calling for an independent, bipartisan investigation into President Bush's statements in the State of the Union address, sign it today.
http://mailer.democrats.org/rdr/002L701IMo0001F
And be sure to forward this message on to your friends to help spread the word that it's time for President Bush to stand up and take responsibility for the words that come out of his mouth.
http://mailer.democrats.org/rdr/002L701IMo0001G
Monday, July 28, 2003
Click the link below to read the full UPI report on how Bush's claims about the connection between Iraq and al Qaeda contradicted U.S. intelligence.
http://mailer.democrats.org/rdr/002L701IMo0001E
More interesting articles on current events and news:
AMERICAN REBELS
by Jack Newfield [The Nation]
http://www.alternet.org/story.html?StoryID=16262
MY COUNTRY - THE WORLD
by Howard Zinn
http://www.tompaine.com/feature2.cfm/ID/7726
MATRIOTISM FOR MOTHER EARTH
by Elouise Bell [Earth Island Journal]
http://www.alternet.org/story.html?StoryID=12918
TOUGH LOVE
by Michelle Chihara
http://www.alternet.org/story.html?StoryID=11930
A PRAYER FOR AMERICA
by Dennis Kucinich
http://www.alternet.org/story.html?StoryID=12477
Get Involved - Write Your Vision for 2020 America
http://www.2020democrats.com
MISREPRESENTATION
http://www.moveon.org/r?458
POWELL & BLIX HAVE THEIR DOUBTS
http://www.guardian.co.uk/Iraq/Story/0,2763,968581,00.html
IMPEACHMENT!
http://writ.corporate.findlaw.com/dean/20030606.html
http://mailer.democrats.org/rdr/002L701IMo0001E
More interesting articles on current events and news:
AMERICAN REBELS
by Jack Newfield [The Nation]
http://www.alternet.org/story.html?StoryID=16262
MY COUNTRY - THE WORLD
by Howard Zinn
http://www.tompaine.com/feature2.cfm/ID/7726
MATRIOTISM FOR MOTHER EARTH
by Elouise Bell [Earth Island Journal]
http://www.alternet.org/story.html?StoryID=12918
TOUGH LOVE
by Michelle Chihara
http://www.alternet.org/story.html?StoryID=11930
A PRAYER FOR AMERICA
by Dennis Kucinich
http://www.alternet.org/story.html?StoryID=12477
Get Involved - Write Your Vision for 2020 America
http://www.2020democrats.com
MISREPRESENTATION
http://www.moveon.org/r?458
POWELL & BLIX HAVE THEIR DOUBTS
http://www.guardian.co.uk/Iraq/Story/0,2763,968581,00.html
IMPEACHMENT!
http://writ.corporate.findlaw.com/dean/20030606.html
Wednesday, July 23, 2003
Some good news on the work front ... after two days at the Times Square office I've finally been assigned not one, but two assignments. Now that I'm a floater, trying to find a new permanent position here at the office, I'll take whatever assignments they give me. Yah know? So, for now, I'm covering the secretarial [admin] position of a gal who had to start her maturnity leave sooner than expected. [She's married to a NYC cop.] Seems pretty straight-forward of handling travel arrangements, timesheets, expense reports, set up meetings or conference calls, etc. The department is Tax Insurance and the other smaller assignment is also with same department, and working on audit spreadsheets. The folk in this area seem pretty decent and helpful. On that note, time for this gal to sign off and make the commute home. Remember to keep rocking in the free world. :-)
Tuesday, July 22, 2003
Well folks, since my last post about the work situation, much has happened. Found out last Wednesday afternoon, July 16th, that we doing the "big move" on Friday and not end of the month. Ugh! Lots of last minute work to do, calling vendors, cancelling accounts, packing up supplies and offices, etc. Much paid overtime. Then I find out in a meeting with my Administrative Manager on Thursday, that my position with STS Group was eliminated. Imagine my surprise and shock upon hearing that! Whoa! But they had good news for me, until I can find a new permanent position in the firm, I'll be a floater/temp admin. Actually, I have three months to find a new permanent position. In September the firm is doing a major restacking [hard to explain] and promotions. Which means there will be lots of openings. Yeah! So, in the meantime, I float and am now at the Times Square location.
The move on Friday from downtown office was long, but successful. My computer from downtown office has been temporarily set up in the TSS department on 8th floor. So thats why I was able to access several times yesterday and today. Felt good to deal with office and personal emails, plus check out PJ stuff on the net and IRWTpt2. Anyhow ... I hooked up with my Administrative Manager and we discussed what will be happening during this "transition". I also touched base with accounting and facilities department to go over invoices and such regarding downtown office. I also briefly connected with the secretary who's now covering for the partner I worked with. Passing on his info, emails, calendar, etc. During all this I was running into people I hadn't seen in months and they were wondering why I was up at Times Square office. Many explanations, yah know. Also, my Admin Mgr gave me the company link to the "job openings" database. At least twice a week I have to check it to see what openings in the firm are available, discuss it with my recruiter and then apply for the position. Then there was lunch in their cafeteria, which I'm not going to do often, as I'd rather "brown bag" it and save money. I already miss the nice small parks down in Wall Street area. Then yesterday afternoon I had two meetings ... one with new Admin Mgr and secretary to main partner in STS group. Have met a few cool new people. Everyone has been nice and helpful. On a good note, the commute was only 20 minutes this AM and I utilize two subways, not three. Big difference!
Lets see ... lighter news ... I spent a lovely Sunday afternoon at a park in my neighborhood. The weather was wonderful! Blue skies, not too hot, and a slight breeze. Took a blanket, small pillow, bottled water, snack, reading material and ventured forth. Parked my ass under a nice, shady tree for 3 1/2 hours. Sometimes I napped, read or watched folk play softball. Last night, on the local PBS station [telly], I watched several cool programs. They were "History Detectives", "American Experience - Ansel Adams" and "Charlie Rose". Time to sign off ... for now ... lunch time.
The move on Friday from downtown office was long, but successful. My computer from downtown office has been temporarily set up in the TSS department on 8th floor. So thats why I was able to access several times yesterday and today. Felt good to deal with office and personal emails, plus check out PJ stuff on the net and IRWTpt2. Anyhow ... I hooked up with my Administrative Manager and we discussed what will be happening during this "transition". I also touched base with accounting and facilities department to go over invoices and such regarding downtown office. I also briefly connected with the secretary who's now covering for the partner I worked with. Passing on his info, emails, calendar, etc. During all this I was running into people I hadn't seen in months and they were wondering why I was up at Times Square office. Many explanations, yah know. Also, my Admin Mgr gave me the company link to the "job openings" database. At least twice a week I have to check it to see what openings in the firm are available, discuss it with my recruiter and then apply for the position. Then there was lunch in their cafeteria, which I'm not going to do often, as I'd rather "brown bag" it and save money. I already miss the nice small parks down in Wall Street area. Then yesterday afternoon I had two meetings ... one with new Admin Mgr and secretary to main partner in STS group. Have met a few cool new people. Everyone has been nice and helpful. On a good note, the commute was only 20 minutes this AM and I utilize two subways, not three. Big difference!
Lets see ... lighter news ... I spent a lovely Sunday afternoon at a park in my neighborhood. The weather was wonderful! Blue skies, not too hot, and a slight breeze. Took a blanket, small pillow, bottled water, snack, reading material and ventured forth. Parked my ass under a nice, shady tree for 3 1/2 hours. Sometimes I napped, read or watched folk play softball. Last night, on the local PBS station [telly], I watched several cool programs. They were "History Detectives", "American Experience - Ansel Adams" and "Charlie Rose". Time to sign off ... for now ... lunch time.
Monday, July 21, 2003
Review Of Pearl Jam Show
July 8, 2003
MSG in NYC
OH MY GOD! What a f--king amazing show! This band blew me away at Saratoga 2000 and again at Albany 2003. Let me tell you, those two shows paled compared to the first of two MSG gigs. I'm being totally sincere in this statement. Yeah baby, its coming from the heart and soul.
Start with the beginning, which was way back in late January, when we 10 Club members first heard the tix were going on sale for North American tour. Sadly, I had messed up on my membership, which I wasn't able to renew until after the deadline for concert tix. All was not lost ... my dear PJ fan/friends Josee and Michelle came to bat for me. [A big thanks from bottom of my heart & enjoy those rumballs. More to come at Xmas time.] They were both coming to NYC for the shows and I said your more than welcome to stay at my place. Save on those pricey hotels in Manhattan.
Ordering tix via the 10 Club, upon submitting info/money, member got two tix for show of request. One could go to as many shows as one wanted, as long as one had the funds to cover price of tix. The average tix was about $40 each and thats darn good. Anyhow ... Josee offered me her first night extra tix and Michelle offered me her second night extra tix. I paid them for the tix back in February. WooHoo! As the dates were drawing nearer, we three had to coordinate on arrival times and pickup destination. Got a little bit anxious on some things, but it all worked out in the end. Michelle flew into Newark Airport, then a bus to Port Authority and Josee took a bus down from Canada to Port Authority. I picked them both up on
the evening of July 7th.
Now about the show! Yeah baby! We got thru security with no difficulties and they seemed pretty cool. In the main lobby of MSG the four of us [ie: my Texas pal Erica was with us] picked a spot to "meet up" after the show. Michelle and Erica went their way and I ambled off with Josee. We checked out the merchandise booths, as Josee wanted to purchase a poster and t-shirt. Posters were sold out, but she got a really cool black/red t-shirt. Found our seats, which were on the floor, row W, about a little center-right. I'm thinking ... holy shit ... I've never been this close to the stage in MSG. We saw Michelle [her Ticketmaster tix were just behind the stage, which she later said provided her with some interesting views] and waved to her. Erica stopped by to chat for abit and pointed to her front row seat. Her stepmom was attending the gig with her. Josee noticed Michelle waving at us again, but pointing behind us. We looked around and I saw my friend Andrea waving at me from the section behind ours. I went up to the barrier and managed to talk the security guard in letting Andrea come over to chat with me for five minutes. It was great seeing her again and she too is also a big "jeff ament" admirer like me. Sigh!
Back at my seat, we waited for 7:30pm to roll around, for when the Buzzcocks came on stage as the warmup band. Their a British punk band thats been around for about 25 years or so. They played their set at a fast pace with little breather space in between songs. Josee said its the same setlist, as she'd seen them open for Pearl Jam in Detroit, Montreal and Toronto, before coming to NYC. Personally, I thought their set wasn't that bad and better than the group SPARTA, who opened for Pearl Jam in Albany. Both Josee and I noticed Eddie standing on stage right. He was watching the set and enjoying it. On the left, I noticed Jeff trying to hide behind the speakers and then Mike joined him. For the last song ["Why Can't I Touch It?] on the Buzzcocks set they were joined on stage by Jeff, Eddie and Mike. What a treat for us fans. They ended the set and all left the stage. Now comes the suspence of waiting for the main band ... Pearl Jam. only 30 minutes or so, but it seemed like an eternity.
When they did finally come on stage, all 19,000+ fans stood up and cheered wildly. Its show time! They started off the set with LOVE BOAT CAPTAIN, then ripping into LAST EXIT [Jeffs bopping all over the stage] and SAVE YOU. Two kick ass rocker tunes. Josee and I are bouncing and dancing with absolute joy. We later learned that there were 7,000 Ten Club members at this show and 8,000 at second show. WOW! Next song was GREEN DISEASE and then a slightly different version of IN MY TREE, which I liked. Through all this one could tell that some folk were lighting up and smoking pot. Thankfully it wasn't as "thick" as it was at Albany show. Anyhow ... next up was a wonderful rendition of CROPDUSTER, followed by one of my fav songs, EVEN FLOW. This song really lets Mikey showcase his terrific guitar solo skills. Then they do a John Lennon song called GIMME SOME TRUTH, followed by the bands first single [I AM MINE] off of latest LP called RIOT ACT. What's up next, oh my gosh, a song they hardly ever do and a fav of mine off YIELD. Its a Jeff song called LOW LIGHT and they follow with another YIELD song called FAITHFULL. Both are favs with 10 Club members. Up next one of my least fav Pearl Jam songs ... WISHLIST ... but the tag is cool which is the Buzzcocks WHY CAN'T I TOUCH IT? If I remember correctly, it was around this time that some guy shows up and tries to take Josee's seat. Claiming it was his seat, we're like NO WAY DUDE! Looked at his tix and he's suppose to be in row Y, not W. Geez! Next up is the fast paced LUKIN. The next five songs [ie: GRIEVANCE, 1/2 FULL, BLACK, SPIN THE BLACK CIRCLE & REARVIEWMIRROR] are more favs of mine and the band is sooooo on fire. Eddie is in fine form this evening, Mike's a live wire & playing amazing solos, Matt as always is a powerhouse on the drums, Stone is providing groovy rhythm and watching Jeff play that bass makes me sooooo happy. Plus his jumps on stage were amazing.
The arena is going nuts during the break between main set and 1st encore. The guys come back out on stage to near deafening cheers from the fans. And kick off the 1st encore with the funky song YOU ARE utilizing strobe lights. These type of lights usually bother my eyes, so I spent most of the song with closed eyes and bent head. Every so often they throw in a quiet song and this time its THUMBING MY WAY. The next song is DAUGHTER and during the tag Eddie brings out Ben Harper to help out. The tag is a Harper song called WITH MY OWN TWO HANDS. This is a terrific surprise. Harper is there with his girlfriend, the actress Laura Dern. Josee and I damn near flip out when they roll into the next song, after some chatter from Eddie, plus passing wine bottle to Jeff and Stone. We were like ... OMG ... their doing CROWN OF THORNS ... which is a Mother Love Bone song. Then to add to our euphoria ... BREATH! Great song! I knew it was bound to happen, they did another of my least fav Pearl Jam songs ... BETTERMAN. What makes it interesting is the audience sing-along response, their reveling in this song, which is about spouse abuse. [Earlier that evening I saw a young chap wearing a t-shirt that said "Betterman Club". Very strange.] They cap off the 1st encore with DO THE EVOLUTION. The audience during the next break before 2nd encore is even more deafening. Everyone is rocking on all four cylinders. WooHoo! OMG!
Back on stage Eddie mentioned to us that they were told the stage only bounced up and down that much [which freaked them abit] for three other bands. Can you guess? Well it was the Grateful Dead, Iron Maiden and Bruce Springsteen. That last mention got a Bruuuuuce chant from the crowd. They start off 2nd encore with CRAZY MARY. Love this song live and Boom Gaspar plays a great keyboard solo. At this point I mention to Josee ... how will the band top this fantastic show tomorrow evening. It boggles the mind. Eddie brings Ben Harper out again and they duet the next song ... INDIFFERENCE. So sweet! Then Tony from the Buzzcocks comes out on stage to play bass for the next song, while Jeff sits this one out. Another fav
cover song of mine ... SONIC REDUCER. Did I mention the band was on fire this evening? Hell yeah! They close out the evening with an amazing rendition of The Who song BABA O'RILEY. And the show closing number is another fav of mine ... YELLOW LEDBETTER. Which again showcases Mikey's guitar prowness. They played a 2 1/2 to 3 hour show with such energy and enthusiasm. Everyone was excited and pumped afterwards. Josee and I met up with Michelle at our designated spot. We got to chatting with other cool fans ... mostly those that Michelle knew via Synergy BBS. We were all hot, sweaty and dying of thirst. Found a vendor outside the venue and quenched our thirst. One of the best concert experiences I've had in a long time.
July 8, 2003
MSG in NYC
OH MY GOD! What a f--king amazing show! This band blew me away at Saratoga 2000 and again at Albany 2003. Let me tell you, those two shows paled compared to the first of two MSG gigs. I'm being totally sincere in this statement. Yeah baby, its coming from the heart and soul.
Start with the beginning, which was way back in late January, when we 10 Club members first heard the tix were going on sale for North American tour. Sadly, I had messed up on my membership, which I wasn't able to renew until after the deadline for concert tix. All was not lost ... my dear PJ fan/friends Josee and Michelle came to bat for me. [A big thanks from bottom of my heart & enjoy those rumballs. More to come at Xmas time.] They were both coming to NYC for the shows and I said your more than welcome to stay at my place. Save on those pricey hotels in Manhattan.
Ordering tix via the 10 Club, upon submitting info/money, member got two tix for show of request. One could go to as many shows as one wanted, as long as one had the funds to cover price of tix. The average tix was about $40 each and thats darn good. Anyhow ... Josee offered me her first night extra tix and Michelle offered me her second night extra tix. I paid them for the tix back in February. WooHoo! As the dates were drawing nearer, we three had to coordinate on arrival times and pickup destination. Got a little bit anxious on some things, but it all worked out in the end. Michelle flew into Newark Airport, then a bus to Port Authority and Josee took a bus down from Canada to Port Authority. I picked them both up on
the evening of July 7th.
Now about the show! Yeah baby! We got thru security with no difficulties and they seemed pretty cool. In the main lobby of MSG the four of us [ie: my Texas pal Erica was with us] picked a spot to "meet up" after the show. Michelle and Erica went their way and I ambled off with Josee. We checked out the merchandise booths, as Josee wanted to purchase a poster and t-shirt. Posters were sold out, but she got a really cool black/red t-shirt. Found our seats, which were on the floor, row W, about a little center-right. I'm thinking ... holy shit ... I've never been this close to the stage in MSG. We saw Michelle [her Ticketmaster tix were just behind the stage, which she later said provided her with some interesting views] and waved to her. Erica stopped by to chat for abit and pointed to her front row seat. Her stepmom was attending the gig with her. Josee noticed Michelle waving at us again, but pointing behind us. We looked around and I saw my friend Andrea waving at me from the section behind ours. I went up to the barrier and managed to talk the security guard in letting Andrea come over to chat with me for five minutes. It was great seeing her again and she too is also a big "jeff ament" admirer like me. Sigh!
Back at my seat, we waited for 7:30pm to roll around, for when the Buzzcocks came on stage as the warmup band. Their a British punk band thats been around for about 25 years or so. They played their set at a fast pace with little breather space in between songs. Josee said its the same setlist, as she'd seen them open for Pearl Jam in Detroit, Montreal and Toronto, before coming to NYC. Personally, I thought their set wasn't that bad and better than the group SPARTA, who opened for Pearl Jam in Albany. Both Josee and I noticed Eddie standing on stage right. He was watching the set and enjoying it. On the left, I noticed Jeff trying to hide behind the speakers and then Mike joined him. For the last song ["Why Can't I Touch It?] on the Buzzcocks set they were joined on stage by Jeff, Eddie and Mike. What a treat for us fans. They ended the set and all left the stage. Now comes the suspence of waiting for the main band ... Pearl Jam. only 30 minutes or so, but it seemed like an eternity.
When they did finally come on stage, all 19,000+ fans stood up and cheered wildly. Its show time! They started off the set with LOVE BOAT CAPTAIN, then ripping into LAST EXIT [Jeffs bopping all over the stage] and SAVE YOU. Two kick ass rocker tunes. Josee and I are bouncing and dancing with absolute joy. We later learned that there were 7,000 Ten Club members at this show and 8,000 at second show. WOW! Next song was GREEN DISEASE and then a slightly different version of IN MY TREE, which I liked. Through all this one could tell that some folk were lighting up and smoking pot. Thankfully it wasn't as "thick" as it was at Albany show. Anyhow ... next up was a wonderful rendition of CROPDUSTER, followed by one of my fav songs, EVEN FLOW. This song really lets Mikey showcase his terrific guitar solo skills. Then they do a John Lennon song called GIMME SOME TRUTH, followed by the bands first single [I AM MINE] off of latest LP called RIOT ACT. What's up next, oh my gosh, a song they hardly ever do and a fav of mine off YIELD. Its a Jeff song called LOW LIGHT and they follow with another YIELD song called FAITHFULL. Both are favs with 10 Club members. Up next one of my least fav Pearl Jam songs ... WISHLIST ... but the tag is cool which is the Buzzcocks WHY CAN'T I TOUCH IT? If I remember correctly, it was around this time that some guy shows up and tries to take Josee's seat. Claiming it was his seat, we're like NO WAY DUDE! Looked at his tix and he's suppose to be in row Y, not W. Geez! Next up is the fast paced LUKIN. The next five songs [ie: GRIEVANCE, 1/2 FULL, BLACK, SPIN THE BLACK CIRCLE & REARVIEWMIRROR] are more favs of mine and the band is sooooo on fire. Eddie is in fine form this evening, Mike's a live wire & playing amazing solos, Matt as always is a powerhouse on the drums, Stone is providing groovy rhythm and watching Jeff play that bass makes me sooooo happy. Plus his jumps on stage were amazing.
The arena is going nuts during the break between main set and 1st encore. The guys come back out on stage to near deafening cheers from the fans. And kick off the 1st encore with the funky song YOU ARE utilizing strobe lights. These type of lights usually bother my eyes, so I spent most of the song with closed eyes and bent head. Every so often they throw in a quiet song and this time its THUMBING MY WAY. The next song is DAUGHTER and during the tag Eddie brings out Ben Harper to help out. The tag is a Harper song called WITH MY OWN TWO HANDS. This is a terrific surprise. Harper is there with his girlfriend, the actress Laura Dern. Josee and I damn near flip out when they roll into the next song, after some chatter from Eddie, plus passing wine bottle to Jeff and Stone. We were like ... OMG ... their doing CROWN OF THORNS ... which is a Mother Love Bone song. Then to add to our euphoria ... BREATH! Great song! I knew it was bound to happen, they did another of my least fav Pearl Jam songs ... BETTERMAN. What makes it interesting is the audience sing-along response, their reveling in this song, which is about spouse abuse. [Earlier that evening I saw a young chap wearing a t-shirt that said "Betterman Club". Very strange.] They cap off the 1st encore with DO THE EVOLUTION. The audience during the next break before 2nd encore is even more deafening. Everyone is rocking on all four cylinders. WooHoo! OMG!
Back on stage Eddie mentioned to us that they were told the stage only bounced up and down that much [which freaked them abit] for three other bands. Can you guess? Well it was the Grateful Dead, Iron Maiden and Bruce Springsteen. That last mention got a Bruuuuuce chant from the crowd. They start off 2nd encore with CRAZY MARY. Love this song live and Boom Gaspar plays a great keyboard solo. At this point I mention to Josee ... how will the band top this fantastic show tomorrow evening. It boggles the mind. Eddie brings Ben Harper out again and they duet the next song ... INDIFFERENCE. So sweet! Then Tony from the Buzzcocks comes out on stage to play bass for the next song, while Jeff sits this one out. Another fav
cover song of mine ... SONIC REDUCER. Did I mention the band was on fire this evening? Hell yeah! They close out the evening with an amazing rendition of The Who song BABA O'RILEY. And the show closing number is another fav of mine ... YELLOW LEDBETTER. Which again showcases Mikey's guitar prowness. They played a 2 1/2 to 3 hour show with such energy and enthusiasm. Everyone was excited and pumped afterwards. Josee and I met up with Michelle at our designated spot. We got to chatting with other cool fans ... mostly those that Michelle knew via Synergy BBS. We were all hot, sweaty and dying of thirst. Found a vendor outside the venue and quenched our thirst. One of the best concert experiences I've had in a long time.
Sunday, July 13, 2003
Finally getting around to posting a new entry in my journal that is not politically related. This entry is based on some fun stuff I've been doing over last two weeks. Those of you waiting for reviews on my Pearl Jam MSG 1 & 2 experience, will have to wait abit longer. Sorry, still working on the reviews. For now ... the latest tidbits.
First of all ... work news ... it may not be "fun stuff" but its interesting. Its officially confirmed that the downtown E&Y space I've been working at for 2 1/2 years will be sublet by another company. That means in a few weeks we are moving to the Times Square offices. [Over 3,000 people in that one location. Whoa!] I'm actually looking forward to the move, as its been sooooo slow at current location for 2 1/2 months and I want some challenging action. NOW! Lately we've been busy with packing a few Senior Manager offices and shipping out lots of computer equipment to other E&Y locations. Stay tuned for more updates.
Back on June 29th I went up to northern Yonkers with my good friend Debbie to visit friends of ours. It was a delightful day trip. Judy and Don have a charming apartment overlooking Hudson River. Last time I saw Judy was on my b-day back in October and last time I saw Don was at their wedding in May 2002. Judy and Don drove us around the area [lots of nice houses et al] from Yonkers on up to Tarrytown. Weather was sunny, warm and abit hazy. We had ice cream at a charming place in Tarrytown and also strolled along part of "the trail". Next time I'm wearing sneakers instead of fashionable sandals. Band-aids and blisters on my feet ... not a pretty sight. Back at their apartment we watched some "Buffy" and "LOTRs" DVDs. Judy whipped up a yummy middle eastern dinner, followed by drinking wine on the terrace and viewing the sunset over NJ. Overall a most enjoyable day.
Headed up to the family homestead for the long July 4th holiday weekend. Left the office Wednesday afternoon on July 2nd, as E&Y was officially closed on July 3rd & 4th. Sweet deal! Weather was warm, humid and occasional breezes. Spent most of the time relaxing with Mom on the screened in porch doing pastels, chatting or reading. Did I mention that I finished reading the Harry Potter book and gave it to Mom to read. Loved the book! Highly recommend it to others. While upstate NY I did some shopping, cooking, reading, pastels, sketching, chores around house, watch some cable tv, out to eat a few times, cut & color, etc.
This past week was fantastic. Got to see my fav band, Pearl Jam, perform two gigs at MSG. I'll be writing up a review to those shows soon and posting it here. Worked on July 7th then went up to Port Authority to pick up Josee and Michelle. Josee came down by bus from Canada and Michelle was flying in from Seattle. They were staying at my pad for a few days and we were going to the Pearl Jam gigs together. We've met online, chatted back and forth via email, talked on the phone and now finally meeting for the first time. Their both terrific gals and we hit it off right away. Got back to my place in Brooklyn around 8pm, settled in my place, hit the grocery store and then picked up dinner from the local pizza joint. Sat around my livingroom chatting away that evening. Next day we headed into the city and got off subway at 34th Street Penn Station. Got some lunch there and hooked up with my TX Pearl Jam fan friend Erica. This was my first time meeting her, tho we've been emailing/phoning each other since October 2000. She's also one terrific gal and been a big fan of the group since the early days. We strolled over to Southgate Towers and got on line to pick up 10 Club tix for both shows at Garden. No troubles there ... long line ... tix showed our seats to pretty decent. [Erica had front row! Lucky girl!] Thanks 10 Club! After that we jumped on the subway and headed up to the westside to do some sightseeing. I showed the three of them the Dakota [where John Lennon was shot in 1980], Strawberry Fields ["Imagine" memorial] and a fun stroll thru "the rambles" in Central Park. Man oh man ... it was a sunny, warm, humid day. Then it was back on subway to head to Erica's hotel on 31st Street, but I accidently got us on the uptown subway. Silly me! We switched at Cathedral Parkway stop and went back downtown.
We hungout at Erica's hotel to cool off, freshen up and talk until close to showtime at Garden. Left another voicemail with my Pearl Jam fan friend Andrea, who was also going to the gig that night. We headed into the arena at 6:45pm. Erica went to her first row seat, Michelle had a tix for behind the stage and Josee and I were sitting in fan club section, which was in row W from stage. We waved to Michelle in her seat and then Erica stopped by briefly to chat. She had a primo spot right in front of Eddie. Then Michelle waved at Josee and me again, then pointed behind us. In section behind us I could see Andrea waving at me, as she was on her cell phone chatting with Michelle on her cell phone. In cases like this cell phones are a beautiful thing. I went up to the barrier and managed to persuade the security guard to let Andrea over to barrier so we could chat for a few minutes. She was at the gig with her sister. Sadly we wouldn't be able to meet up after the gig, as she had a train to catch back to NJ. I'll talk about the Pearl Jam gig in another post sometime this week. All I got to say for now is it was an awesome show. They are a great rock band. Afterwards we met and chatted with some cool people in the arena lobby ... Dan from Brazil, Melanie from Toronto, plus several others. Our throats felt like cotton fields, so we headed outdoors to picked up drinks from a street vendor. The three of us made it back to my place, via subway, at around 1:30am. Took showers and went to bed exhausted, but very happy.
On wednesday, after placing several voicemails to Erica and Andrea [plus a late breakfast], the three of us headed into Manhattan for more sightseeing. Todays weather was cooler and not as humid. I took Josee and Michelle to lower Manhattan. Showed them Ground Zero, St Pauls & Trinity Churches, Battery Park, Statue of Liberty, Wall Street, Stock Exchange and Federal Hall before we picked up a late lunch to eat at my office. While at office we checked out emails & posts on IRWTpt2 Yahoo Group. Then we left my office, jumped on subway and headed up to Times Square for a quick visit. Then back on another subway to zip down to MSG for the gig. Waited outside for awhile in trying to locate Erica and Andrea. Josee had an extra fan club tix, which she sold to a nice chap on the street. I was sitting with Michelle this evening. This time we all had decent seats, but Josee's seat was abit closer to the stage. We called Erica on her cell phone, as we saw her sitting in her front row seat already. She stopped by to briefly chat with Josee and then over to our section to chat with me and Michelle. She went to matinee that day with her stepmom to see "Phantom of the Opera". [Whoa! This entry into journal is turning out longer than I thought. Hope I'm not boring anyone.] Will provide review of show later on this week, but suffice to say, it was another awesome gig and I danced alot to the music. WooHoo! Afterwards we hooked up with Erica, Melanie and her friend Rita in MSG lobby. This night the Garden security was kicking us out soon than evening before, so we hungout outside arena. Melanie and her friend took off, but we finally located Andrea and her friend Teiran. Much chatter going on about show et al. Erica took off for her hotel ... she's a terrific gal and lots of fun. So the five of us hung out on the street corner, sipping drinks from vendor and gossiping until after 12:30am. From there we jumped on our respective transportation.
Back at my pad I called car service for Josee, as she had to head into the city at 7:30am to catch an 8:30am bus at Port Authority. Set my alarm clock for 7am, woke up Josee and got her on her way at 7:30am, then I went back to bed while Michelle slept thru it all. Didn't wake up again until 10:30am! We took our time getting breakfast and dressed. Finally left my apartment around 2:15pm and subways didn't get us to the Wall Street area until 3:30pm. Michelle had to be at Port Authority at about 4pm to catch bus to Newark Airport for a 6pm flight. So we decided to forgo the downtown area and made a beeline for midtown. Her bus was waiting upon arrival to Port Authority and I saw her off. I then picked up a late lunch and hoofed it to my Broad Street office to utilize the computer for a few hours. Then back home to tidy up the pad. Wow! What a fun and exciting 3 to 4 days. A major highlight of my summer, so far. Gotta jet.......................
First of all ... work news ... it may not be "fun stuff" but its interesting. Its officially confirmed that the downtown E&Y space I've been working at for 2 1/2 years will be sublet by another company. That means in a few weeks we are moving to the Times Square offices. [Over 3,000 people in that one location. Whoa!] I'm actually looking forward to the move, as its been sooooo slow at current location for 2 1/2 months and I want some challenging action. NOW! Lately we've been busy with packing a few Senior Manager offices and shipping out lots of computer equipment to other E&Y locations. Stay tuned for more updates.
Back on June 29th I went up to northern Yonkers with my good friend Debbie to visit friends of ours. It was a delightful day trip. Judy and Don have a charming apartment overlooking Hudson River. Last time I saw Judy was on my b-day back in October and last time I saw Don was at their wedding in May 2002. Judy and Don drove us around the area [lots of nice houses et al] from Yonkers on up to Tarrytown. Weather was sunny, warm and abit hazy. We had ice cream at a charming place in Tarrytown and also strolled along part of "the trail". Next time I'm wearing sneakers instead of fashionable sandals. Band-aids and blisters on my feet ... not a pretty sight. Back at their apartment we watched some "Buffy" and "LOTRs" DVDs. Judy whipped up a yummy middle eastern dinner, followed by drinking wine on the terrace and viewing the sunset over NJ. Overall a most enjoyable day.
Headed up to the family homestead for the long July 4th holiday weekend. Left the office Wednesday afternoon on July 2nd, as E&Y was officially closed on July 3rd & 4th. Sweet deal! Weather was warm, humid and occasional breezes. Spent most of the time relaxing with Mom on the screened in porch doing pastels, chatting or reading. Did I mention that I finished reading the Harry Potter book and gave it to Mom to read. Loved the book! Highly recommend it to others. While upstate NY I did some shopping, cooking, reading, pastels, sketching, chores around house, watch some cable tv, out to eat a few times, cut & color, etc.
This past week was fantastic. Got to see my fav band, Pearl Jam, perform two gigs at MSG. I'll be writing up a review to those shows soon and posting it here. Worked on July 7th then went up to Port Authority to pick up Josee and Michelle. Josee came down by bus from Canada and Michelle was flying in from Seattle. They were staying at my pad for a few days and we were going to the Pearl Jam gigs together. We've met online, chatted back and forth via email, talked on the phone and now finally meeting for the first time. Their both terrific gals and we hit it off right away. Got back to my place in Brooklyn around 8pm, settled in my place, hit the grocery store and then picked up dinner from the local pizza joint. Sat around my livingroom chatting away that evening. Next day we headed into the city and got off subway at 34th Street Penn Station. Got some lunch there and hooked up with my TX Pearl Jam fan friend Erica. This was my first time meeting her, tho we've been emailing/phoning each other since October 2000. She's also one terrific gal and been a big fan of the group since the early days. We strolled over to Southgate Towers and got on line to pick up 10 Club tix for both shows at Garden. No troubles there ... long line ... tix showed our seats to pretty decent. [Erica had front row! Lucky girl!] Thanks 10 Club! After that we jumped on the subway and headed up to the westside to do some sightseeing. I showed the three of them the Dakota [where John Lennon was shot in 1980], Strawberry Fields ["Imagine" memorial] and a fun stroll thru "the rambles" in Central Park. Man oh man ... it was a sunny, warm, humid day. Then it was back on subway to head to Erica's hotel on 31st Street, but I accidently got us on the uptown subway. Silly me! We switched at Cathedral Parkway stop and went back downtown.
We hungout at Erica's hotel to cool off, freshen up and talk until close to showtime at Garden. Left another voicemail with my Pearl Jam fan friend Andrea, who was also going to the gig that night. We headed into the arena at 6:45pm. Erica went to her first row seat, Michelle had a tix for behind the stage and Josee and I were sitting in fan club section, which was in row W from stage. We waved to Michelle in her seat and then Erica stopped by briefly to chat. She had a primo spot right in front of Eddie. Then Michelle waved at Josee and me again, then pointed behind us. In section behind us I could see Andrea waving at me, as she was on her cell phone chatting with Michelle on her cell phone. In cases like this cell phones are a beautiful thing. I went up to the barrier and managed to persuade the security guard to let Andrea over to barrier so we could chat for a few minutes. She was at the gig with her sister. Sadly we wouldn't be able to meet up after the gig, as she had a train to catch back to NJ. I'll talk about the Pearl Jam gig in another post sometime this week. All I got to say for now is it was an awesome show. They are a great rock band. Afterwards we met and chatted with some cool people in the arena lobby ... Dan from Brazil, Melanie from Toronto, plus several others. Our throats felt like cotton fields, so we headed outdoors to picked up drinks from a street vendor. The three of us made it back to my place, via subway, at around 1:30am. Took showers and went to bed exhausted, but very happy.
On wednesday, after placing several voicemails to Erica and Andrea [plus a late breakfast], the three of us headed into Manhattan for more sightseeing. Todays weather was cooler and not as humid. I took Josee and Michelle to lower Manhattan. Showed them Ground Zero, St Pauls & Trinity Churches, Battery Park, Statue of Liberty, Wall Street, Stock Exchange and Federal Hall before we picked up a late lunch to eat at my office. While at office we checked out emails & posts on IRWTpt2 Yahoo Group. Then we left my office, jumped on subway and headed up to Times Square for a quick visit. Then back on another subway to zip down to MSG for the gig. Waited outside for awhile in trying to locate Erica and Andrea. Josee had an extra fan club tix, which she sold to a nice chap on the street. I was sitting with Michelle this evening. This time we all had decent seats, but Josee's seat was abit closer to the stage. We called Erica on her cell phone, as we saw her sitting in her front row seat already. She stopped by to briefly chat with Josee and then over to our section to chat with me and Michelle. She went to matinee that day with her stepmom to see "Phantom of the Opera". [Whoa! This entry into journal is turning out longer than I thought. Hope I'm not boring anyone.] Will provide review of show later on this week, but suffice to say, it was another awesome gig and I danced alot to the music. WooHoo! Afterwards we hooked up with Erica, Melanie and her friend Rita in MSG lobby. This night the Garden security was kicking us out soon than evening before, so we hungout outside arena. Melanie and her friend took off, but we finally located Andrea and her friend Teiran. Much chatter going on about show et al. Erica took off for her hotel ... she's a terrific gal and lots of fun. So the five of us hung out on the street corner, sipping drinks from vendor and gossiping until after 12:30am. From there we jumped on our respective transportation.
Back at my pad I called car service for Josee, as she had to head into the city at 7:30am to catch an 8:30am bus at Port Authority. Set my alarm clock for 7am, woke up Josee and got her on her way at 7:30am, then I went back to bed while Michelle slept thru it all. Didn't wake up again until 10:30am! We took our time getting breakfast and dressed. Finally left my apartment around 2:15pm and subways didn't get us to the Wall Street area until 3:30pm. Michelle had to be at Port Authority at about 4pm to catch bus to Newark Airport for a 6pm flight. So we decided to forgo the downtown area and made a beeline for midtown. Her bus was waiting upon arrival to Port Authority and I saw her off. I then picked up a late lunch and hoofed it to my Broad Street office to utilize the computer for a few hours. Then back home to tidy up the pad. Wow! What a fun and exciting 3 to 4 days. A major highlight of my summer, so far. Gotta jet.......................
Saturday, July 12, 2003
DENNIS KUCINICH SPEAKS TRUTH TO POWER. And the word is getting out about what Dennis is doing on the campaign trail and in Washington, where he co-chairs the Congressional Progressive Caucus with the courageous Barbara Lee. If you have friends and relatives who still haven't gotten the news, please, send them this link today:
http://www.kucinich.us
http://www.kucinich.us
Wednesday, July 02, 2003
This is just a quick, and I mean quick, post on my journal. I've been meaning to write in here sooner, but have been busy with work, enjoying the past weekend [more on that later] and getting ready for July 4th weekend. Can't believe the great summer weather we've been experiencing since Monday, June 23rd. Awesome! In less than a week I'll be seeing Pearl Jam at MSG and my friends Josee and Michelle will be visiting me. More news on Monday, July 7th, when I'm back in the office. Until then ... hope everyone has a wonderful July 4th and remember to keep rocking in the free world. Yahoo!!
Friday, June 27, 2003
Came across this interesting, political tidbit on a Pearl Jam chat group I sometimes frequent. Check it out, if you like:
Weapons of Mass Hypocrisy ... Posted: Jun 26, 2003 1:33 PM Reply
"While U.S. military personnel searched for weapons of mass destruction in Irag, an international team of weapons inspectors began touring the United States to draw attention to America's stockpile of WMD. ADBUSTERS magazine reports the Rooting Out Evil coalition (www.rootingoutevil.org) says the U.S. satifies all of President Bush's criteria for a dangerous state: It has a stockpile of chemical, biological, and nuclear weapons; it has refused to sign and honor international treaties; it has ignored United Nations directives; and its leader was not elected by popular vote. The campaign hopes to highlight the hypocrisy of the Bush administration by confronting U.S. weapons manufacturers in the months ahead."
http://adbusters.org/magazine/46/articles/rooting_out_evil.html
Weapons of Mass Hypocrisy ... Posted: Jun 26, 2003 1:33 PM Reply
"While U.S. military personnel searched for weapons of mass destruction in Irag, an international team of weapons inspectors began touring the United States to draw attention to America's stockpile of WMD. ADBUSTERS magazine reports the Rooting Out Evil coalition (www.rootingoutevil.org) says the U.S. satifies all of President Bush's criteria for a dangerous state: It has a stockpile of chemical, biological, and nuclear weapons; it has refused to sign and honor international treaties; it has ignored United Nations directives; and its leader was not elected by popular vote. The campaign hopes to highlight the hypocrisy of the Bush administration by confronting U.S. weapons manufacturers in the months ahead."
http://adbusters.org/magazine/46/articles/rooting_out_evil.html
Wednesday, June 25, 2003
[Duchess Note ... If anyone is interested ... read on]
WHY KUCINICH? He's the candidate promoting a bold progressive agenda and building a winning coalition of activists committed to peace, economic justice, civil rights and liberties, the environment, women's equality, gay rights, workers rights.
ENDORSEMENTS ROLLING IN: Kucinich has just been endorsed by environmental hero Randy Hayes. Over the weekend, legendary civil rights activist Grace Lee Boggs endorsed. Last week, it was Ben Cohen and Congresswoman Lynn Woolsey. Former FCC Commissioner and author of "How to Talk Back to Your Television Set," Nicholas Johnson, has also endorsed.
DONATE: Send your endorsement in the form of a contribution, and have the federal government match it. Help us amplify our message.
https://www.kucinich.us/contribute.php
For more information: http://www.kucinich.us
WHY KUCINICH? He's the candidate promoting a bold progressive agenda and building a winning coalition of activists committed to peace, economic justice, civil rights and liberties, the environment, women's equality, gay rights, workers rights.
ENDORSEMENTS ROLLING IN: Kucinich has just been endorsed by environmental hero Randy Hayes. Over the weekend, legendary civil rights activist Grace Lee Boggs endorsed. Last week, it was Ben Cohen and Congresswoman Lynn Woolsey. Former FCC Commissioner and author of "How to Talk Back to Your Television Set," Nicholas Johnson, has also endorsed.
DONATE: Send your endorsement in the form of a contribution, and have the federal government match it. Help us amplify our message.
https://www.kucinich.us/contribute.php
For more information: http://www.kucinich.us
Tuesday, June 24, 2003
Yesterday, from 5:30pm to 7pm, I participated in a big Rally near Sheraton Hotel on 7th Avenue and 52nd Street in protest against Bushie. That jackass cowboy who calls himself president, was in town grovelling for campaign donations from greedy, selfish, narrow-minded millionaires. If you saw the Rally section, on the telly, with protesters showing banners about the "Child Tax Credit", well then, I was in that group. Did you know that Bushie's recent $350 billion tax cut will provide an average of $93,500 to every millionaire, but doesn't give a dime to millions of children [800,000 here in NYC] in hard working families with incomes between $10,500 and $26,625 per year?!? My cousin & his family [wife & three children] in upstate NY [he served in first Gulf War] are one of those "hard working families", so is a good friend of mine in CT with two teenage daughters. The insanity of the Bushie Empire must be stopped. Make a difference when the 2004 Presidental Election comes around and make the right choices. Our future, as hard working Americans, depends on it.
One of the chants from yesterdays Rally:
Soak, soak, soak the poor
Tax breaks for the rich,
Terribly, terribly, terribly, terribly
Workers feel the pinch!
Grow, grow, grow the debt,
Tax breaks for the rich,
States are strapped for spending cash
Services, you wish!
Strip, strip, strip our rights,
Innocents must pay,
But the Constitution still exists,
And we won't go away!
*****************************************************
The VoteToImpeach campaign is a critical effort. As Ramsey Clark stated in his May 12 address at the National Press Club that was broadcast nationally on C-Span: "When people vote to Impeach it is important. It reminds Americans that the Constitution provides the means for removing an Imperial President and officials who commit high crimes." To help support the impeachment campaign, please consider making a donation at:
http://www.VoteToImpeach.org/donate.htm .
The administration's crimes, including its lies and deceptions, are becoming increasingly exposed in the public discourse and media. Pressure is growing for Congressional
hearings on the Administration's lies and deliberate manipulation of "intelligence data" related to the much ballyhooed connection between Iraq and Al' Qaeda and the patently false claim about the "grave and imminent threat" posed by Iraq's alleged Weapons of Mass Destruction. Under these circumstances it is all the more important to expand the grassroots VotetoImpeach campaign.
Participate in the Each One, Reach One initiative, and by visting:
http://www.VoteToImpeach.org/eachone.htm
You can send an email inviting one or more friends, family members or colleagues to join the Impeachment movement.
Let's keep the pressure on!
One of the chants from yesterdays Rally:
Soak, soak, soak the poor
Tax breaks for the rich,
Terribly, terribly, terribly, terribly
Workers feel the pinch!
Grow, grow, grow the debt,
Tax breaks for the rich,
States are strapped for spending cash
Services, you wish!
Strip, strip, strip our rights,
Innocents must pay,
But the Constitution still exists,
And we won't go away!
*****************************************************
The VoteToImpeach campaign is a critical effort. As Ramsey Clark stated in his May 12 address at the National Press Club that was broadcast nationally on C-Span: "When people vote to Impeach it is important. It reminds Americans that the Constitution provides the means for removing an Imperial President and officials who commit high crimes." To help support the impeachment campaign, please consider making a donation at:
http://www.VoteToImpeach.org/donate.htm .
The administration's crimes, including its lies and deceptions, are becoming increasingly exposed in the public discourse and media. Pressure is growing for Congressional
hearings on the Administration's lies and deliberate manipulation of "intelligence data" related to the much ballyhooed connection between Iraq and Al' Qaeda and the patently false claim about the "grave and imminent threat" posed by Iraq's alleged Weapons of Mass Destruction. Under these circumstances it is all the more important to expand the grassroots VotetoImpeach campaign.
Participate in the Each One, Reach One initiative, and by visting:
http://www.VoteToImpeach.org/eachone.htm
You can send an email inviting one or more friends, family members or colleagues to join the Impeachment movement.
Let's keep the pressure on!
Monday, June 23, 2003
Damn good article from the "San Francisco Chronicle" by Harley Sorensen and brought to you via Common Dreams website. We all need to pull together, in a non-violent manner, and stop Bush and his bloody empire in DC. Right now! Not tomorrow ... today! Don't hide behind a flag like some whimp ... be a true American and patriot. Rally together and do what we can to keep Bushies from destroying our beloved country. Check out this article.............
http://www.commondreams.org/views03/0623-09.htm
*******************************************
Rolling into this past weekend I thought the only excitement I’ll experience will be purchasing and commence reading the new Harry Potter book, plus going to the gym. Well, I did pick up the book yesterday at BORDERS bookstore and saved 40%. So instead of paying $29 at one store, I got the book for $19 and that made me happy. So far I’ve read up to Chapter 9 and it’s wickedly good. Proud to say I love the whole Harry Potter series. Its fun, interesting and a fast read.
***************************************************
Saturday morning at 10:30am I received a phone call from an acquaintance of mine, whom I met through a Pearl Jam IRWT club pal [ie: Melissa]. Jodie was on her cell phone and calling me from her car in Pennsylvania. She also had three other friends with her and they ALL reside in Detroit. They were heading to NYC for a 24-hour whirlwind tour of the city. OMG! They had been out at a bar until 1am drinking and decided to go see NYC. Just like that! Whoa! Said they’d be pulling into NYC and Brooklyn [where I live] in about 3 hours or so. We discussed some plans, travel tips and I hung up the phone. This left me 3 hours to get the following things done … color my hair, shower, dress, makeup, do laundry & dishes, go to the cleaners and tidy up the apartment. And yes … I did all that in 3 hours! Must be a world record for me.
Between 2pm and 2:30pm I received another call from Jodie and they had just gotten thru the Lincoln Tunnel. I gave them directions to Midtown Tunnel and told them to call me once through that. Which they did … gave further directions to my place and ran out of apartment with umbrella [plus my house keys] to meet them at corner. We met up at corner [two blocks away] at the same time. I’m like … OMG there is Jodie driving the car and their all waving at me. Wild! I point them in the direction of Keyfood parking lot. Jodie introduces me to the others … Debbie, Richard and Matt. Then she calls Melissa [she lives in Arkansas] on her cell phone and hands it to me. We chat for a few minutes and Melissa can’t believe that they’re in NYC. She’s totally wigging out. Its softly raining at this point and abit chilly outside. You wouldn’t know it’s the first day of summer. Anyhow, we head up to my apartment to chill for abit and the two fella’s run to local Deli to pick up beers. Debbie and Jodie also go, as they want to get film and tampons. Back at the apartment their drinking beer and we’re discussing the agenda for the days outing. Yep, I’m going with them to be hostess and tour guide.
We head out at 3:20pm and took my two good umbrellas. I’m using one and Debbie [for now] is using the other one. At the subway station they purchase one-day fun pass Metro cards for $7 and we hop on the subway. Need to take three subways into Manhattan and head up to the upper Westside. First stop on agenda … the “Dakota”, Central Park & the infamous “Strawberry Fields” with “imagine” memorial to John Lennon. Yep, it’s still raining. Hum … what did you expect … sunshine on the weekend. Yeah … right! After that we took the subway down to the lower Eastside, as Richard wanted to check out a tattoo parlor for supplies et al. While on subway riding downtown I take some pix of the four of them. We’re having a good time … lots of laughs. They’re a fun bunch.
We get off at Second Avenue and try to locate a tattoo parlor. I finally asked one of the “locals” and he points us in the right direction [off of East Houston]. We find the tattoo parlor, but the three dudes were not at all helpful, even abit snotty. We were being nice and polite too. I felt badly for Richard, but he seemed to take it well. A few doors down from that place was a neat Italian place. We were all hungry at this point and wanted pizza. The place had a groovy atmosphere and the food was good, plus reasonably priced. From there we walked several blocks to Delancey Street to catch a subway. The third item on our agenda was next … they wanted to see “Ground Zero” at WTC. We got off at Chamber Street stop and walked west, stopping at Starbucks, as they wanted coffee. By this time the weather outside was getting worse. Rain was coming down heavier and the wind was really picking up. Not a good sign! We made it to Ground Zero and stood at the viewing area not far from Millennium Hotel. Lots of other people are there as well, mostly tourist. We also stopped at Century 21 department store to buy socks.
The subways in that area are closed, so we head down to Wall Street station of 4 & 5 subway. Can you believe it, the damn station is closed and the token booth clerk has no idea where nearest station is. Geez! By this time we’ve lost our umbrellas do to the downpour and strong winds. I’m getting wet and not happy about that. Still, overall, we’re having a good time. Really! Leave the Wall Street station and run up Broadway to the Fulton Street station for A train. Along the way ducking into doorways or under awnings to get away from the horrible weather. Good lord, it was nasty! Finally get a subway back to my neighbor and while walking to my apartment its still windy, but rain has stopped. Its now 9pm and we all look like drenched rats. Not a pretty picture. Jodie gets her car from parking lot and then parks it on my street. Back at my place we change into dry clothes or try to dry the ones they were wearing. I lent Richard one of my sweatshirts. They all utilized my bathroom to clean up, drink beer, I drank tea and we sat around chatting until 11pm.
While we’re talking I’m also going over subway plans with Jodie, cause the four of them wanted to check out Times Square and Greenwich Village that evening. So … at 11pm … we said our goodbyes and they headed off into the night. Said they’d be back around 5am to pick up the car and drive back to Detroit. Yep, all the way to Michigan. After they left I did some things around apartment before going to bed at 12:30am. I’m tired and not feeling too well, but I had a great time hanging out with them. And so ends my adventure this past Saturday.
http://www.commondreams.org/views03/0623-09.htm
*******************************************
Rolling into this past weekend I thought the only excitement I’ll experience will be purchasing and commence reading the new Harry Potter book, plus going to the gym. Well, I did pick up the book yesterday at BORDERS bookstore and saved 40%. So instead of paying $29 at one store, I got the book for $19 and that made me happy. So far I’ve read up to Chapter 9 and it’s wickedly good. Proud to say I love the whole Harry Potter series. Its fun, interesting and a fast read.
***************************************************
Saturday morning at 10:30am I received a phone call from an acquaintance of mine, whom I met through a Pearl Jam IRWT club pal [ie: Melissa]. Jodie was on her cell phone and calling me from her car in Pennsylvania. She also had three other friends with her and they ALL reside in Detroit. They were heading to NYC for a 24-hour whirlwind tour of the city. OMG! They had been out at a bar until 1am drinking and decided to go see NYC. Just like that! Whoa! Said they’d be pulling into NYC and Brooklyn [where I live] in about 3 hours or so. We discussed some plans, travel tips and I hung up the phone. This left me 3 hours to get the following things done … color my hair, shower, dress, makeup, do laundry & dishes, go to the cleaners and tidy up the apartment. And yes … I did all that in 3 hours! Must be a world record for me.
Between 2pm and 2:30pm I received another call from Jodie and they had just gotten thru the Lincoln Tunnel. I gave them directions to Midtown Tunnel and told them to call me once through that. Which they did … gave further directions to my place and ran out of apartment with umbrella [plus my house keys] to meet them at corner. We met up at corner [two blocks away] at the same time. I’m like … OMG there is Jodie driving the car and their all waving at me. Wild! I point them in the direction of Keyfood parking lot. Jodie introduces me to the others … Debbie, Richard and Matt. Then she calls Melissa [she lives in Arkansas] on her cell phone and hands it to me. We chat for a few minutes and Melissa can’t believe that they’re in NYC. She’s totally wigging out. Its softly raining at this point and abit chilly outside. You wouldn’t know it’s the first day of summer. Anyhow, we head up to my apartment to chill for abit and the two fella’s run to local Deli to pick up beers. Debbie and Jodie also go, as they want to get film and tampons. Back at the apartment their drinking beer and we’re discussing the agenda for the days outing. Yep, I’m going with them to be hostess and tour guide.
We head out at 3:20pm and took my two good umbrellas. I’m using one and Debbie [for now] is using the other one. At the subway station they purchase one-day fun pass Metro cards for $7 and we hop on the subway. Need to take three subways into Manhattan and head up to the upper Westside. First stop on agenda … the “Dakota”, Central Park & the infamous “Strawberry Fields” with “imagine” memorial to John Lennon. Yep, it’s still raining. Hum … what did you expect … sunshine on the weekend. Yeah … right! After that we took the subway down to the lower Eastside, as Richard wanted to check out a tattoo parlor for supplies et al. While on subway riding downtown I take some pix of the four of them. We’re having a good time … lots of laughs. They’re a fun bunch.
We get off at Second Avenue and try to locate a tattoo parlor. I finally asked one of the “locals” and he points us in the right direction [off of East Houston]. We find the tattoo parlor, but the three dudes were not at all helpful, even abit snotty. We were being nice and polite too. I felt badly for Richard, but he seemed to take it well. A few doors down from that place was a neat Italian place. We were all hungry at this point and wanted pizza. The place had a groovy atmosphere and the food was good, plus reasonably priced. From there we walked several blocks to Delancey Street to catch a subway. The third item on our agenda was next … they wanted to see “Ground Zero” at WTC. We got off at Chamber Street stop and walked west, stopping at Starbucks, as they wanted coffee. By this time the weather outside was getting worse. Rain was coming down heavier and the wind was really picking up. Not a good sign! We made it to Ground Zero and stood at the viewing area not far from Millennium Hotel. Lots of other people are there as well, mostly tourist. We also stopped at Century 21 department store to buy socks.
The subways in that area are closed, so we head down to Wall Street station of 4 & 5 subway. Can you believe it, the damn station is closed and the token booth clerk has no idea where nearest station is. Geez! By this time we’ve lost our umbrellas do to the downpour and strong winds. I’m getting wet and not happy about that. Still, overall, we’re having a good time. Really! Leave the Wall Street station and run up Broadway to the Fulton Street station for A train. Along the way ducking into doorways or under awnings to get away from the horrible weather. Good lord, it was nasty! Finally get a subway back to my neighbor and while walking to my apartment its still windy, but rain has stopped. Its now 9pm and we all look like drenched rats. Not a pretty picture. Jodie gets her car from parking lot and then parks it on my street. Back at my place we change into dry clothes or try to dry the ones they were wearing. I lent Richard one of my sweatshirts. They all utilized my bathroom to clean up, drink beer, I drank tea and we sat around chatting until 11pm.
While we’re talking I’m also going over subway plans with Jodie, cause the four of them wanted to check out Times Square and Greenwich Village that evening. So … at 11pm … we said our goodbyes and they headed off into the night. Said they’d be back around 5am to pick up the car and drive back to Detroit. Yep, all the way to Michigan. After they left I did some things around apartment before going to bed at 12:30am. I’m tired and not feeling too well, but I had a great time hanging out with them. And so ends my adventure this past Saturday.
Friday, June 20, 2003
Well folks, tomorrow is the big day for avid Harry Potter fans like myself. Yep, thats right, "Order of the Phoenix" [book 5 in the series] is due out in bookstores worldwide. Can't wait to get my copy and start reading it. I've heard thru the grape vine that there is a "death scene" of a significant character. Much speculation on who it could be and why. Stay tuned for more updates..............
Also came across two excellent articles from the following newspapers ... Toronto Star & Boston Globe ... yes ... its politically related. At this point in time that shouldn't surprise you all. Here are the links:
http://www.commondreams.org/views03/0619-11.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/headlines03/0620-02.htm
Enjoy and have a great weekend!
Also came across two excellent articles from the following newspapers ... Toronto Star & Boston Globe ... yes ... its politically related. At this point in time that shouldn't surprise you all. Here are the links:
http://www.commondreams.org/views03/0619-11.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/headlines03/0620-02.htm
Enjoy and have a great weekend!
Thursday, June 19, 2003
Duchess Note ... Several upcoming Rally's that may be of interest to some of you. I know I am very interested & will be at the rally on June 23rd. See below for more info.]
Bush Coming to NYC on June 23rd! Help us greet him!!!
Monday, June 23rd 2003 5:00 pm
NYC, New York
President Bush will be holding a fundraising event for his re-election campaign on the evening of Monday, June 23rd at the Sheraton New York Hotel and Towers. Please help us support a permited rally organized by Planned Parenthood of NYC at 5:00 pm. This is an excellent opportunity to join forces and demonstrate to the world our opposition to the Bush administration's anti-choice, anti-rights and anti-peace policies. For more information please contact:
UFPJNY: 212-603-3700
PPNYC: Gina Gambone, 212-274-7247
Location: Sheraton New York Hotel and Towers West 52nd Street and Seventh Avenue NYC New York
Contact:
United for Peace and Justice
info@unitedforpeace.org
212-603-3700
Sponsored By: Planned Parenthood of NYC United for Peace and Justice NY http://unitedforpeace.org
*****************************************************************
Also, check out this website:
http://www.justiceinjuly.org/
Bush Coming to NYC on June 23rd! Help us greet him!!!
Monday, June 23rd 2003 5:00 pm
NYC, New York
President Bush will be holding a fundraising event for his re-election campaign on the evening of Monday, June 23rd at the Sheraton New York Hotel and Towers. Please help us support a permited rally organized by Planned Parenthood of NYC at 5:00 pm. This is an excellent opportunity to join forces and demonstrate to the world our opposition to the Bush administration's anti-choice, anti-rights and anti-peace policies. For more information please contact:
UFPJNY: 212-603-3700
PPNYC: Gina Gambone, 212-274-7247
Location: Sheraton New York Hotel and Towers West 52nd Street and Seventh Avenue NYC New York
Contact:
United for Peace and Justice
info@unitedforpeace.org
212-603-3700
Sponsored By: Planned Parenthood of NYC United for Peace and Justice NY http://unitedforpeace.org
*****************************************************************
Also, check out this website:
http://www.justiceinjuly.org/
Wednesday, June 18, 2003
Monday, June 16, 2003
We're finally getting a combination of late spring, early summer weather over last few days, plus the occasional spurt of showers. Anyhow ... yesterday was a sunny, warm, cloudy day and no rain. I headed up to Connecticut for the day to spend time with my good friend Katherine. We've been communicating via email and occasionally the phone, but haven't seen each other since January. Much has happened during that span of months in her life. First of all, over a delicious seafood lunch at Red Lobster, she tells me that her and her beau Maurice are engaged. This is great news and I'm very happy for her. The situation concerning her daughters [ages 17 1/2 & 20 1/2] isn't so good, especially in regards to the younger girl. To complicated to go into and some of the subject matter is of a delicate nature. Stopped by the cemetery to take care of my grandmothers grave, stopped by her house briefly so she could take the dog out for walk. [I do not like Pitbulls.] Then we headed over to visit her beau/fiance Maurice. I experienced good vibes when I met Maurice and one can tell how much he deeply cares about my dear friend. We hung out for awhile, chatted and watched some neat film footage that he is working on restoring for a wealthy Connecticut family. Cool stuff. Then we went out for a drive to check out [& photograph] some pretty parks/gardens and get ice cream. Overall I had a nice day and got back to NYC around 8:30pm.
Recently picked up a new Richard Bach book on the "Ferret Chronicles" series. This delightful book is called "Rancher Ferrets on the Range" and mostly takes place up in Montana [Big Sky country].
Recently picked up a new Richard Bach book on the "Ferret Chronicles" series. This delightful book is called "Rancher Ferrets on the Range" and mostly takes place up in Montana [Big Sky country].
Wednesday, June 11, 2003
My neighbors are always saying that car accidents happen alot at intersection near my apartment. In the 18 years of living in my Brooklyn apartment, not yet has one happened when I've been home, until last night. At about 10:30pm I'm sitting at my computer typing an email to my friend Sheila down in Florida. When I heard screeching tires and major crashing. Next thing I know the people in apartment above me are running to their window facing street and people next door run out of building to have a "look". As for me ... I continue to type my email. Two minutes later I hear and see a firetruck & ambulence go up my street. I live on a one-way street and these vehicles were going in the wrong direction. So I stop typing, grab my keys and head outside. I forget to put sandals on, but since its nice and warm outside, it doesn't matter. I look up the street and already a crowd has gathered viewing the "scene", along with the firetruck/ambulence/police folk doing their thing. So I stand in front of my building trying to gage whats going on and talking to one of my neighbors on second floor [she's looking out her window]. So far, we can tell from passers-by that no one is dead or seriously hurt. Thank god! After about 5 minutes or so I walk up the street to where some of my neighbors had congregated. We talked and viewed the accident scene. Both cars were totalled, one was slammed up next to a street-light post and had also shoved two parked cars onto curb. The second car, in this fiasco, was across the street up on curb. Apparently the one driver didn't stop at the stop sign and rammed into the other car as it went thru the intersection. You know auto insurance companies will be busy with this situation. After awhile I said "goodnight" to my neighbors and headed back to my apartment to finish email, then go to bed, cause by this time it was after 11pm. What a night! Whew!
Monday, June 09, 2003
I'm telling yah ... if Bill Moyers ran for president of the USA tomorrow ... I'd vote for him. Sadly, he isn't running for president, but a recent article from THE NATION called "Bill Moyers 'Presidential' Address" was fantastic. Personally, I'd like to see Dennis Kucinich be the Democratic hopeful. We need someone to turn this nation around and for the better. He may be the one to do it. Away from the total corruption [ie: greedy liars] of the Bush empire. Check out the article if you wish:
http://www.commondreams.org/views03/0609-10.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views03/0609-10.htm
Sunday, June 08, 2003
If you wish to sign a petition for American Values and joining the fight to keep President Bush's right-wing extremist nominees off the Supreme Court, fill out the form at the link below. Plus tell your friends about the Supreme Court Action Center.
In just a few days, more than 110,000 people signed the DNC's petition. The people at Moveon. org are preparing to deliver your signatures and comments, and they want to give your friends and family one final chance to sign the petition and support Democrats in this crucial fight.
http://mailer.democrats.org/rdr/002Kt00fJ90001D
*********************************************************
Several interesting websites dealing with world peace, politics and other important issues. Check them out if you wish:
http://www.thebulletin.org
http://www.wagingpeace.org
*********************************************************
On a cheerful note, I went up to Yonkers yesterday to do my volunteer work at the Ferret Shelter. The weather was muggy, rainy and a slight breeze. Good day to be indoors doing something relaxing or fun. It was great seeing the wee adorable furballs again. Joanne adopted out several to good homes, but has also received several newbies [ie: Staten Island] and their mostly 8 to 9 month old kits. They seem to be in good healthy, soft fur and full of inquisitive energy. The little "sad story" furkid from my last visit is doing better in walking/running around, fur is getting full/softer, inquisitive, cuddly, happy, but sadly has been diagnosed with Lymphnoma. He's on medication to help him along. It was great seeing Joanne, Aliza, Briana and Toni again, as well as the two dogs and all the cats. Did my usual duties in the shelter and one of these days will need to learn how to clip furkid nails. Someday.....................
In just a few days, more than 110,000 people signed the DNC's petition. The people at Moveon. org are preparing to deliver your signatures and comments, and they want to give your friends and family one final chance to sign the petition and support Democrats in this crucial fight.
http://mailer.democrats.org/rdr/002Kt00fJ90001D
*********************************************************
Several interesting websites dealing with world peace, politics and other important issues. Check them out if you wish:
http://www.thebulletin.org
http://www.wagingpeace.org
*********************************************************
On a cheerful note, I went up to Yonkers yesterday to do my volunteer work at the Ferret Shelter. The weather was muggy, rainy and a slight breeze. Good day to be indoors doing something relaxing or fun. It was great seeing the wee adorable furballs again. Joanne adopted out several to good homes, but has also received several newbies [ie: Staten Island] and their mostly 8 to 9 month old kits. They seem to be in good healthy, soft fur and full of inquisitive energy. The little "sad story" furkid from my last visit is doing better in walking/running around, fur is getting full/softer, inquisitive, cuddly, happy, but sadly has been diagnosed with Lymphnoma. He's on medication to help him along. It was great seeing Joanne, Aliza, Briana and Toni again, as well as the two dogs and all the cats. Did my usual duties in the shelter and one of these days will need to learn how to clip furkid nails. Someday.....................
Friday, June 06, 2003
Thursday, June 05, 2003
[Duchess Note: If interested, please read on and take action, if not, disregard and believe me, I would understand completely.]
On Monday, Michael Powell and his allies on the Federal Communications Commission voted 3-2 to authorize media consolidation. It's a sad day for democracy -- this decision will place the bulk of our country's newspapers and TV stations in even fewer hands. Diversity, fairness, and competition will decline as a result.
Luckily, democracy's awful resilient. Congress has the power to overturn these rule changes. More than 100 members of the House and roughly 20 members of the Senate asked the FCC not to approve these rule changes at this time. The members of Congress were right to be concerned, and they have the authority to act on those concerns now by introducing legislation that will undo these changes. Our friends at Common Cause have made it easy to contact your Representatives and Senators and let them know that you want the FCC's rules repealed.
You can take action now at:
http://causenet.commoncause.org/afr/issues/alert/?alertid=2446521
On Monday, Michael Powell and his allies on the Federal Communications Commission voted 3-2 to authorize media consolidation. It's a sad day for democracy -- this decision will place the bulk of our country's newspapers and TV stations in even fewer hands. Diversity, fairness, and competition will decline as a result.
Luckily, democracy's awful resilient. Congress has the power to overturn these rule changes. More than 100 members of the House and roughly 20 members of the Senate asked the FCC not to approve these rule changes at this time. The members of Congress were right to be concerned, and they have the authority to act on those concerns now by introducing legislation that will undo these changes. Our friends at Common Cause have made it easy to contact your Representatives and Senators and let them know that you want the FCC's rules repealed.
You can take action now at:
http://causenet.commoncause.org/afr/issues/alert/?alertid=2446521
Tuesday, June 03, 2003
Click on the link below to read [June 2nd article - NY Times] about how the recent Bush Administration tax-cut benefits the wealthy and no one else. Basically Bush takes from the poor/middle classes and gives to the rich, just like his father did and of course Reagan. Check it out, if you wish:
http://www.commondreams.org/views03/0602-06.htm
http://www.commondreams.org/views03/0602-06.htm
Monday, June 02, 2003
Greetings all ... todays journal entry will be non-political. Hum ... do I hear a sigh of relief from my regular readers. For once I'm going to chat about fun things, instead of topics which depress us all. Anyhow................
This past Saturday was another wet, cool day/evening in the Big Apple, but that didn't stop certain people from enjoying a fun BBQ. No way! Party on dude! At the ELITE gym where I workout and train ... John & David threw a big BBQ that evening. I showed up at the gym at 6pm with a big tin of my freshly baked brownies and chocolate chip cookies. Andrea and her beau Tim followed me in and the backyard was totally covered with awnings, tarp and umbrellas. Not a drop of rain fell on the guests and fellow gym members all evening, tho we knew it was storming up. For 4 1/2 hours I had a wonderful time chatting with people, drinking wine, eating good food and sampling some yummy cakes. [All of this I worked off at the gym next day.] We also celebrated John's 32nd b-day [he is my personal trainer] and there were achievement awards for certain gym members. I also saw some folk I haven't seen in a year and we caught up on gossip. It was a blast and everyone in good humor. From there I took car service home.
Recently I finished reading a terrific, interesting, funny book by Bill Bryson. Its called "I'm A Stranger Here Myself" and I recommend to all. Its basically the authors observations of America, after living in England for 20 years. I found myself laughing out loud during parts of it. Which can be somewhat embarressing when riding NYC transit. As with his last book ... "A Walk In The Woods" ... I have this urge to visit New Hampshire, go to a drive-in movie, eat a Twinkie, as well as hike part of the Appalachian Trail. Yes, I know, abit odd. Definitely go purchase the book and enjoy.
This past Saturday was another wet, cool day/evening in the Big Apple, but that didn't stop certain people from enjoying a fun BBQ. No way! Party on dude! At the ELITE gym where I workout and train ... John & David threw a big BBQ that evening. I showed up at the gym at 6pm with a big tin of my freshly baked brownies and chocolate chip cookies. Andrea and her beau Tim followed me in and the backyard was totally covered with awnings, tarp and umbrellas. Not a drop of rain fell on the guests and fellow gym members all evening, tho we knew it was storming up. For 4 1/2 hours I had a wonderful time chatting with people, drinking wine, eating good food and sampling some yummy cakes. [All of this I worked off at the gym next day.] We also celebrated John's 32nd b-day [he is my personal trainer] and there were achievement awards for certain gym members. I also saw some folk I haven't seen in a year and we caught up on gossip. It was a blast and everyone in good humor. From there I took car service home.
Recently I finished reading a terrific, interesting, funny book by Bill Bryson. Its called "I'm A Stranger Here Myself" and I recommend to all. Its basically the authors observations of America, after living in England for 20 years. I found myself laughing out loud during parts of it. Which can be somewhat embarressing when riding NYC transit. As with his last book ... "A Walk In The Woods" ... I have this urge to visit New Hampshire, go to a drive-in movie, eat a Twinkie, as well as hike part of the Appalachian Trail. Yes, I know, abit odd. Definitely go purchase the book and enjoy.
Thursday, May 29, 2003
[Duchess note ... this tidbit is from a recent newsletter from Moveon.org. Great organization! Check it out if you wish.]
The Democratic National Committee has now joined the fight with a "Supreme Court Countdown" and online petition, and we think it's important to support them too. We've spoken to chairman McAuliffe and he's agreed to deliver our petition comments personally to Senate Minority Leader Tom Daschle. He'll ask Sen. Daschle to get your comments to his colleagues in the Democratic caucus as well.
To sign the DNC petition and send your comment, just go to:
http://www.democrats.org/scotus/petition.html?s=moveon
We expect chairman McAuliffe to deliver these comments next week, so add your voice today.
President Bush and the right wing are pulling out all the stops on these nominations. They've even talked about a "nuclear option" -- attempting to change the rules of the Senate to deny the use of the filibuster in the consent process. It's amazing that these politicians would consider destroying the time-honored traditions of the Senate and undermining the "advise and consent" provisions of the Constitution.
The Democrats are standing up in this fight, in the face of heavy pressure from the Bush White House. They need to hear our appreciation for this courageous stand and our demand that they hold the line. They need to hear that we understand what's at stake and will stand with them.
Go now to:
http://www.democrats.org/scotus/petition.html?s=moveon
As I'm sure you know, these appointments are for life, and these judges make decisions that impact every aspect of our public and private lives. Our actions today will affect generations to come.
The Democratic National Committee has now joined the fight with a "Supreme Court Countdown" and online petition, and we think it's important to support them too. We've spoken to chairman McAuliffe and he's agreed to deliver our petition comments personally to Senate Minority Leader Tom Daschle. He'll ask Sen. Daschle to get your comments to his colleagues in the Democratic caucus as well.
To sign the DNC petition and send your comment, just go to:
http://www.democrats.org/scotus/petition.html?s=moveon
We expect chairman McAuliffe to deliver these comments next week, so add your voice today.
President Bush and the right wing are pulling out all the stops on these nominations. They've even talked about a "nuclear option" -- attempting to change the rules of the Senate to deny the use of the filibuster in the consent process. It's amazing that these politicians would consider destroying the time-honored traditions of the Senate and undermining the "advise and consent" provisions of the Constitution.
The Democrats are standing up in this fight, in the face of heavy pressure from the Bush White House. They need to hear our appreciation for this courageous stand and our demand that they hold the line. They need to hear that we understand what's at stake and will stand with them.
Go now to:
http://www.democrats.org/scotus/petition.html?s=moveon
As I'm sure you know, these appointments are for life, and these judges make decisions that impact every aspect of our public and private lives. Our actions today will affect generations to come.
Wednesday, May 28, 2003
Interesting article from Denver Post ... "Musicians Blast FCC Plan - Members of R.E.M. & Pearl Jam Decry Radio Consolidation". Rock on dudes! God damn government and big corporations are slowly taking away our first amendment rights et al. Down with corporate media ... let's hear it for free speech!!
http://www.denverpost.com/Stories/0,1413,36~78~1406829,00.html
On to something light and fun ... Elf Quiz! I took the quiz/test and found out I'm a tranquil elf. Cool! Check it out:
http://www.orlandobloom.co.nz/elftest.html
Even tho the weather mostly sucked [overcast, wet, cool] over the Memorial Day weekend, we did have a lovely, sunny, warm Sunday afternoon upstate NY. Did a few fun things over the course of three days ... such as: visit the Bennington Battlefield in VT, took a tour of Schuyler Mansion in Schuyler [NY], visited Saratoga National Cemetery, hit several tag sales [lots of good bargins], eat out a few times, shopping in Saratoga Springs [NY] & Manchester [VT], visit family and watch cable telly. Dad rented a car from Enterprise and it was a nice, little Mazda. Mom and I toodled around in that while Dad utilized his car and worked at golf course. It was nice and relaxing to get away for several days.
http://www.denverpost.com/Stories/0,1413,36~78~1406829,00.html
On to something light and fun ... Elf Quiz! I took the quiz/test and found out I'm a tranquil elf. Cool! Check it out:
http://www.orlandobloom.co.nz/elftest.html
Even tho the weather mostly sucked [overcast, wet, cool] over the Memorial Day weekend, we did have a lovely, sunny, warm Sunday afternoon upstate NY. Did a few fun things over the course of three days ... such as: visit the Bennington Battlefield in VT, took a tour of Schuyler Mansion in Schuyler [NY], visited Saratoga National Cemetery, hit several tag sales [lots of good bargins], eat out a few times, shopping in Saratoga Springs [NY] & Manchester [VT], visit family and watch cable telly. Dad rented a car from Enterprise and it was a nice, little Mazda. Mom and I toodled around in that while Dad utilized his car and worked at golf course. It was nice and relaxing to get away for several days.