Thursday, December 25, 2008

Friday, December 19, 2008

O Tannenbaum!


O Tannenbaum!
Originally uploaded by Kate Anne
Huzzah! The tree is decorated. Did someone say cards?

Catnap!


Catnap!
Originally uploaded by Kate Anne
Wilbur knows what to do when it is snowing.

Snow!


Snow!
Originally uploaded by Kate Anne
3 to 5 inches expected. Good to be home and decorating tree.

The GOP's Tax Holiday Hoax

Listen to Pap's rant about the GAO info that many corporations paid no or little taxes and now want to bring these funds held off shore into the US via the Tax Holding Reparations Act. Little publicity has been given these tax evaders but it gives new meaning to the term, "Just say NO." Congress: 202-224-3121.

Thursday, December 18, 2008

Episcopal, Authority, Healing, Peace

The American Episcopal Church is going through a transitory period, which results from anger arising from the appointment of an openly gay bishop, this on top of earlier allowing women to become priests. One reason I joined the Anglican community is that it IS open to women and accepting of my gay brother. The world needs to open its heart and heal itself of old wounds. The spiritual world is part of this healing. I trust the Episcopal community will heal. Speaking on Authority this advent season is the Rev. Sharon Gracen, the vicar of Faith Episcopal Church of Liguna Niguel, California. Listen to her words and also follow the healing available through the Interfaith Alliance. Peace hugs one and all!

After Torture - per Michael Ratner

At the recent Harper's-NYU forum on how to deal with Bush-era war crimes (which I missed, sigh), TPMtv spoke with Center for Constitutional Rights president Michael Ratner. Ratner talks about US torturers, including their ability to travel where they might be prosecuted. (This is Part III on Torture, so look for the other parts.)

Saturday, December 13, 2008

Harry Chapin - What Made America Famous?

Miss Harry -- and I did miss Harry, though I knew his brother Jim and his wife Diane and have spoken with Tom Chapin a number of times, the last at Jim's memorial service. (Jim was the Chapin who didn't sing but what a mind!!) The Chapins are a gift to America. This video is quite a reflection:

...I went to sleep with the hope that made America famous.
I had the kind of a dream that maybe they're still trying to teach in school.
Of the America that made America famous...and
Of the people who just might understand
That how together yes we can
Create a country better than
The one we have made of this land,
We have a choice to make each man
Who dares to dream, reaching out his hand
A prophet or just a crazy God damn
Dreamer of a fool - yes a crazy fool

There's something burning somewhere.
Does anybody care?
Is anybody there?

Saturday, December 6, 2008

Don't Blame Unions For Detroit's Ills

Mike Papantonio does another great Pap Attack, this time explaining who is really behind the failure of the Big 3 (and it isn't the workers!!). Love Pap, Ring of Fire, and Bobby -- catch the full audio on AirAmerica.com but this four minute visual says much.

Wednesday, December 3, 2008

Apple Raisin Stuffing

Dorothy Morehead asked me to make an apple stuffing and then was too sick to eat it. She's still recovering but this recipe found in an ancient cookbook is worth halving and having without the benefit of a holiday. (This vegetarian ate it sans bird and heated it in my toaster oven but that's another story.) Get well soon, Dorothy!! I will be most thankful when you are well!!

3/4 Cup minced onion
1-1/2 Cups chopped celery (include some leaves)
1 Cup butter
7 Cups soft bread cubes
2 Teaspoons salt
1-1/2 Teasp. crushed sage 
1 Teasp. thyme 
1/2 Teasp. pepper
3 Cups finely chopped apples
3/4 Cup raisins

In a large skillet, stir celery and onions in butter until onions become tender. Add a third of the bread cubes. Dump into large bowl, add remaining ingredients and mix. This could be used in a 12 pound turkey but I say spare the turkey and bake it in your oven perhaps at 325 until hot. Worth the calories but I will likely play with it using less butter.

Sunday, November 23, 2008

Marillion - Whatever Is Wrong With You

My daughter's obsession with Twilight is combined with our family's obsession with Marillion in this video featuring Marillion's haunting song "Whatever is Wrong With You" and Twilight clips. Watch it and take in the visual and audio ambiance. Thanks!!

Saturday, November 22, 2008

Tell Barack OUR vision

Please read Heather Wokusch's piece at CommonDreams.org: You're Scaring Me, Obama: Let the Bush Years Die (also found at her own site) and then follow her lead and TELL BARACK AND HIS TEAM OUR VISION at Change.gov. Yes, Barack's made some appointments I am not thrilled about, but perhaps he has read his team the riot act about the need to follow OUR vision.

I'm all for staying positive, like Code Pink, who has admitted to being part of the fake New York Times episode. Now they are pushing all sorts of POSITIVE Actions relegating War to the Dustbin of History.

The nay sayers on both sides are out there pushing their negativity. WE SAY, "Yes, we can!" Let's push for our positive vision of the U.S. and the World, TELL OBAMA our VISION, and MAKE HIM DO IT!!! Thanks for YOUR help.

Wednesday, November 19, 2008

Shannyn Moore: Painting a Red State Blue

I've just added a blog to my blog roll, Shannyn Moore: Just a Girl from Homer. An Alaska native, Shannyn has been featured regularly on This is America with Jon Elliott as part of Jon's Palinoscopy segments as well as providing us updates with the Stevens-Begich senate race. (Looks like the Repugs didn't steal enough votes to give Stevens the win, praise God!). Anyway, do check out Shannyn. Indeed, Mark Green should have her guest host on Air America as a prelude to hosting regularly. We need her in Alaska, in America, and on Air America!! Right now, you have her on Quick TAKES and Peace Hugs.

Tuesday, November 18, 2008

Fr. Roy faces Vatican ire for standing up for Women

The New York Times reported that Fr. Roy Bourgeois, longtime supporter of the closure of the School of the Americas in Fort Benning, GA, is facing excommunication for participating in the ordination of a Catholic woman to the priesthood. Some of us, of course, have excommunicated ourselves as we realize that we are a priestly people. Indeed, the current Presiding Bishop of the United States, the Most Rev. Dr. Katharine Jefferts Schori is an ex-Catholic, or as we say it, a Roaming Roman.

Saturday, November 15, 2008

Rachel Maddow - Lieberman gets more interesting

This provides additional commentary, including a great quotation from Senator Bernie Sanders.

Rachel Maddow Show: Risks of Keeping Lieberman as Chairman

Rachel makes so much sense. Would that the Democrats listen!! Watch this and make a few phone calls and share it with friends who maybe can talk some sense into the Dems!!

Torture is a Moral Issue

Barack Obama is talking about closing Guantanamo. The other side is going to tell him no, but we for peace and justice know better. Let's MAKE him do it. Please endorse the Statement of Conscience “Torture is a Moral Issue” now.

Please Join tens of thousands of people of faith working to end U.S.-sponsored torture -- start with a signature and do more. In NYC, an event is planned for January 11 (the anniversary of the arrival of the first detainees at Guantanamo in 2002) from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the COMMUNITY CHURCH (40 East 35th Street). Sign the petition, speak to your legislators, come to the prayer service on Jan. 11th. Do what you can!

Wednesday, November 12, 2008

Tasini: We Have Plenty of Money. The Rich are Killing Us

Jonathan Tasini posted an excellent article with a terrific related memo at WorkingLife.org

This is one of those moments when I feel like I live in la-la land. It's possible that I am insane, stark-raving mad and delusional. Either that or there is a staggering moral obscenity underway in our country. We have plenty of money to fund what needs to be done--but our political leaders, on both sides of the aisle, seem unwilling to go where the money is: the rich. I know where Republicans stand on this issue. But, where in the hell is the Democratic Party? MORE


In essence, Jonathan backs up Thom Hartmann's contention that we should roll back the REAGAN tax cuts. "We have plenty of money," indeed. And as Jonathan adds, "We can either have the rich pay—or borrow from the Chinese. It’s a choice." It is an obvious choice. Please spread this message and hope others are smart enough to join in using the frame, "We have plenty of money." Obama has a big road ahead and it is up to us to limit the roadblocks.

Wednesday, November 5, 2008

We Are The Ones Song by will.i.am - Obama

I post this song in celebration of Obama's victory and remind him and us all that "WE are ONES we have been waiting for." (This echoes Gandhi's "We must be the change we wish to see in the world.") My prayer is that Obama fulfill his promise to himself, to us, to the world. Yes he/we can -- with God's help and a lot of work. Amen.

Tuesday, November 4, 2008

Join me - Barack the vote!


Join me - Barack the vote!
Originally uploaded by Kate Anne
Voted Obama-Biden and praying for victory!

Obama: One Voice

Gina posted this on Facebook -- I will use it to send me off to vote for Obama-Biden on Row E, the Working Families Party Line. (Hurrah, WFP!! Read David Sirota's stuff on fusion parties to understand more.)

Early Voter suppression in Colorado

Huge lines and long waits. What's more, there were only 3 early voting places when there were 6 two years ago? NOTE WELL. The CO Secretary of State Mike Coffman is on the November ballot as a Republican candidate for Congress. Suppressing the vote works well for him... Katherine Harris anybody?? (Hope he loses!!)

Monday, November 3, 2008

Bruce Springsteen Barack Obama Rally Cleveland

Well, Bruce said, this time we are winning!! (Well, we know Kerry actually DID win in 2004, if they would have counted all the votes, but that's another story.) Thunder Road: "It’s a town full of losers and I’m pulling out of here to win." Good video, now get out and vote Obama-Biden on Tuesday!

Sunday, November 2, 2008

Hockey Mama for Obama

A little humor here, "Don't Speak for me, Sarah Palin" to the tune of "Don't Cry for Me Argentina". See it.

Saturday, November 1, 2008

Fighting The Urge To Purge In Colorado

Colorado's Katherine Harris, Secretary of State Mike Coffman has been illegally purging the voter rolls. He is running as a Republican for a Congressional seat. Hmmmm. Federal law precludes such purging close to an election. Listen for more details before CO becomes FL or OH.

Saturday, October 25, 2008

Greg Palast on CNN Headline News - ACORN

Investigative reporter Greg Palast is helping to get the truth out about ACORN and the real vote fraud being perpetrated by the Republican Party who is trying to suppress voting by those likely to vote for Obama-Biden.

Friday, October 24, 2008

McBush and Folksy Palin endorsed by SNL's GWB

I was at the FreePress.net's 2008 internet Freedom Bash party last night so didn't see it live but George W. Bush endorsed McCain-Palin on Saturday Night Live's Thursday edition last night, with help from Will Ferrell and Tina Fey.



See Dubya, see McCain, or as my friend Judy Young Brannan from Kent Ohio put it: McBush!!! From Judy:

Wednesday, October 22, 2008

Help spread the truth about ACORN

In my work with Citizen Action of New York, I have worked beside ACORN members. They are a good group being much maligned by the Republican spin machine because ACORN serves to get out the minority vote which is not in the interest in the GOP, which has a history of voter suppression. Watch this film and repost it. Thanks.

P.S. Another good informative post can be found at TruthOut.org: A Mighty Hoax from ACORN Grows.

Friday, October 17, 2008

Is it Soup yet? TWO

This is another great soup recipe -- yummy and healthy -- which feeds the body and soul -- enjoy!(I welcome other healthy and tasty soup recipes!)

Roasted Butternut Squash and Apple Soup

1/2 butternut squash, peeled and coarsely diced
2 T olive oil
1 yellow onion, diced
1 T dried thyme
1 Granny Smith Apple, peeled and coarsely diced
1 C low-sodium vegetable stock
1 C water
1/2 t kosher salt
pepper to taste

Preheat the oven to 450 degrees. Mix squash and 1 T of olive oil in a bowl and stir well, coating squash thoroughly. Spoon the squash onto a cookie sheet or low pan and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the edges are slightly brown. Remove from the oven and cool slightly. Heat an empty stockpot over medium heat. Add the remaining 1 T of olive oil and the onion and quickly saute for 2-4 minutes, or until translucent. Add the thyme, squash, apple, stock, and water. Bring to a boil and cook until squash and apple pieces are soft (approx. 15 minutes). Remove from the heat. Puree with hand blender or food processor until smooth. Add salt and pepper. Serve hot or cold. Serves 6.

(A version of this appeared in the Nov. 2003 Nutrition Action Healthletter -- see cspinet.org -- and consider subscribing to their newsletter which comes up with some great recipes worth the modest price.)

Saturday, October 11, 2008

Michelle at Women's Leadership Forum

Now here is a woman who deserves to be our next First Lady -- and indeed is so much more!! Michelle Obama is articulate with real charm and grace. Our country need help and freshness. Please, God! ("God helps those who help themselves." Do something for the campaign: http://my.barackobama.com/)

Wednesday, October 1, 2008

Erin go Barack!


Erin go Barack!
Originally uploaded by Kate Anne
Brent O'Leary and Irish American Democrats in New York City made calls on Tuesday night to Ohio Irish Americans in support of Barack Obama. We had some great conversations and sent blessings to our Ohio brethren.

Sunday, September 28, 2008

Pap Attack: McCain and the Keating 5

Where is the corporate media in connecting the dots between today's financial meltdown and McCain's earlier Keating 5 scandal?

Friday, September 26, 2008

RDC Honored


RDC Honored
Originally uploaded by Kate Anne
Ridgewood Democratic Club received a NYC Council proclamation from Council member Joe Addabbo in honor of their 100 years.

Monday, September 22, 2008

Thirteen Cars?!?

Air America Radio mentioned today that Cindy and John McCain own 13 cars. Michelle and Barack Obama own one hybrid. They didn't ask it, but I will: now who calls whom the elitist? 

Thursday, September 18, 2008

Is it Soup yet?

I'm off to pick up our CSA share (Community Supported Agriculture) at Sunnyside Community Services and the newsletter posted on line shows eggplant among the offerings. I've made soup twice and it is worth sharing:

GRILLED EGGPLANT SOUP

1 medium large eggplant (1.5 lbs). Cut in half lengthwise, rub olive oil on cut sides (1 T ?), cook for 30 minutes or until soft in 375 degree oven (I use my toaster oven).

Meanwhile, in a soup pot fry 1 cut up red bell pepper, 1 large onion (cut up), 3 cloves of garlic (smashed and cut), ¼ teaspoon red pepper in about 1 T+ of olive oil until softened (8 minutes?) over med-low heat, stirring frequently. Add 4 cups of vegetable stock (or chicken stock), cover, and simmer for about 30 minutes over low heat.

Scoop out grilled egg plant from skins (discard skins) and add to soup pot. Puree in blender or food processor in batches. Add 2 T cilantro (minced) and some salt. Heat soup up for about three minutes. Serve with a dollop of Plain yoghurt or sour cream. Yummy.

Monday, September 15, 2008

Sunnyside theft


Sunnyside theft
Originally uploaded by Kate Anne
Woke up Saturday to the voices of neighbors discussing this tire theft. Ouch!

Monday, September 8, 2008

"My" GUACAMOLE*

1 Ripe Avocado
2 teaspoons Chopped onions
½ teaspoon + Minced fresh garlic
1 teaspoon +/- chopped jalapeno (pickled slices fine)
¼ cup (skant) chopped fresh cilantro
1/8 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice

Mash these together (vary amounts according to taste). Then stir in about ½ cup chopped fresh tasty tomato (winter suggestion: Holland or Israeli or those sold on the vine). Best to make just before use though will hold for several hours.

*This recipe is based on that made at the much missed Casa Mexico on Hudson Street, New York City, back in the early 90s. My brother David and I would go there for their great guac and their terrific garlic soup. The guac was made table-side and I asked them questions as to what they were using and caught the hang of it. At the request of a work colleague I created this more standard measurement version but I have never tasted a guacamole any better. Enjoy!

Thursday, September 4, 2008

"Where's the Bush?"

On her Air America Radio show last night, Rachel Maddow pointed out that no where on their website documenting their convention, did the Republicans acknowledge the speeches or even presence there of either George Bush or Laura Bush. The other speakers and speeches were there. Furthermore, NONE of the those speakers or speeches used the word Bush either. "Where's the beef, err Bush?"

Tuesday, September 2, 2008

Hightower Lowdown Highlights

Just heard a couple of great quick podcasts (2 minutes) from Jim Hightower. You can can read and/or hear them on line. The first is THE PRICE OF AUTOCRATIC ARROGANCE on the outrageous cost that Mayor Bloomberg allowed to be expended through the prosecution/persecution of 52 peaceful protestors during the last Republican Conventiion. The second is about more job outsourcing, including Waterford IRISH crystal now being made in Eastern Europe (Will those pieces be labeled as tainted or fake? The CEO plans to keep the prices the same on the 20% of the pieces made there. I'm warning my Aunt Betty Murphy and her chief buyer, my cousin Pat, as to this corporate fraud: East European "Irish" crystal.) Listen to: CUT-RATE LABOR FOR ANY JOB.

And while at Jim's site, consider subscribing to his snailmail Hightower Lowdown.

Friday, August 29, 2008

George W Bush Sewage Plant! on The Ballot in November!!!

San Francisco is taking this apt renaming to the voters in November. This clip deserves wider play just as Bush so deserves this namesake.

Tuesday, August 26, 2008

Day One: The remarkable Michelle Obama speaks out

If you didn't catch Michelle Obama's keynote address to the Democratic Convention, you owe it to yourself to hear it and see why Barack fell in love with her. Check out CSPAN Junkie's post.

It is quite a picture of the elitist (?) would-be/should-be first family!

Monday, August 25, 2008

Mock Crab Cakes - Zucchini

Not sure where I picked this recipe up but it has been languishing on my computer and it is easy enough to try now that I have found it. I have Old Bay!

2 cups grated zucchini
1 egg, beaten
2 T butter, melted
1 C bread crumbs
1/4 cup minced onion
1 t Old Bay Seasoning
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup vegetable oil for frying

In a large bowl, combine zucchini, egg, and butter. Stir in seasoned crumbs [??], minced onion, and seasoning. Mix well.

Shape into patties. Dredge in flour.

In a medium skillet, heat oil over medium high heat until hot. Fry patties until golden brown on both sides.

Sunday, August 24, 2008

Family Time


Family Time
Originally uploaded by Kate Anne
Looking out from my bro's back door at South Bethany Beach DE.

Saturday, August 23, 2008

Obama - Biden

My son didn't get his 3 AM text message but I am happy to learn that Joe Biden is Barack Obama's choice for vice president. Thom Hartmann has been pushing the possible candidacy all week and there is a lot of good that Joe brings to the ticket. A little baggage aside (and they ALL have baggage), Obama-Biden is a ticket I can campaign for and that is a good thing.

Wednesday, August 20, 2008

Velvet Revolution Interviews Stephen Spoonamore



This is the first segment, but watch the series from the Velvet Revolution of Stephen Spoonamore, former CEO of Cybrinth, discussing Diebold electronic voting machines and their inherent flaws which threaten what is left of our democracy. Mark Crispin Miller was on Thom Hartmann's August 19, 2008, show discussing Spoonamore's whistleblowing on election fraud. Great stuff. Get out there and discuss this issue with friends, associates, and political representatives.

Friday, August 15, 2008

Rachel Maddow Highlights McCain's 9 Houses and $520 shoes

How many people know this? (As well as the fact that he ditched his first wife to marry an heiress?) Why aren't we ASKING people point blank? Have voter registration cards handy....

A Question to ask McCain Supporters

"Are you aware that John McCain has nine houses and wears $520 shoes?" I'd love to see their reactions, dear blog friends! And hear what they have to say.

(Thanks to Rachel Maddow for the information.)

As a followup question you might ask did they know if he was dating wife #2 while wife #1 was hospitalized. Character, integrity, Republicans? (Mind you, this doesn't let John Edwards off the hook, but at least he is still with Elizabeth.) Ah, men!

Saturday, August 9, 2008

Free tomato


Free tomato
Originally uploaded by Kate Anne
Gift from the gods: a tomato from compost soil in impatiens pot.

Friday, August 8, 2008

Stopping Direct Mail

Reduce-Reuse-Recycle: The environmentalists' mantra. Junk mail is a challenge and so are junk mail sites. Excuse me, direct mail sites. When you have some time, if your mail is like mine and cause for your postal carrier's chiropractic care, wend your way through the Direct Marketing Association's Mail Preference Service site. Tip of the hat to Jim Hightower's Hightower Lowdown newsletter who checks it before sharing names with "friendly organizations". While any friend of Jim's is probably a likely friend of mine, my mail runneth over and I'm tired of killing trees. Check out DMAchoice.org or write them at PO Box 643, Carmel, NY 10512.

Saturday, August 2, 2008

Drilling Lies

This week the drilling lie has been debunked on a number of progressive talk shows. McCain stresses offshore drilling as a solution to high gas prices but there are already 68 million acres already optioned on which the oil companies have failed to exercise their rights to drill. (Some are saying if the oil companies do not move on their options then the options should be forfeited.) Furthermore, it would take years for any oil to be drilled from any offshore wells AND there is no telling whether any of that oil would reach our shores -- it could be shipped anywhere. The corporative media continues to let McCain get away with outrageous statements.

Friday, July 25, 2008

L.I.C. for Obama


L.I.C. for Obama
Originally uploaded by Kate Anne
Brent O'Leary hosted a meeting to discuss planks to the Democratic platform.

Wednesday, July 16, 2008

Kat's Fake Flake Crab Mac Salad

I did a variant of Kat's macaroni salad made with an 8 oz. pkg of fake crab meat (with "real crab" - yeah, 2% or less) from Louis Kemp. How much of anything? I dumped, and a foodie just sorta knows, right? But YUM:

  • Twirly type of pasta, cooked, cooled

  • Flake crab, broken up

  • broccoli stems (the florets had seen better days :-)

  • celery, chopped

  • frozen peas (briefly dunked in boiling water)

  • red onion, diced small

  • Hellman's mayo

  • Light sour cream (gotta save some calories somewhere)

  • Celtic Sea Salt

Simple, but yummy. And great to store in the work refrigerator.

Sunday, July 6, 2008

How To Annoy My GrandCats... The Nice Way!

Kat posted a video response to a video posted by TheMeanKitty and it is worth a view or two since it features two of my grandcats Max and Mr. Big as well as a brief shot of Kat. While it might make more sense to see that video first, Big and Max are cuter cats :-)

Friday, June 27, 2008

Friends


Friends
Originally uploaded by Kate Anne
Kate, Joanne Bohrer, and Helen Andrews at SBA '68 reunion.

Half the pictures from the reunion are now up as my Flickr.com St. Benedict Academy 1968 reunion set. More to follow (and I hope Joanne will email her iPhoto version of this shot which was better.) Help me solve the mysteries! (I've labeled a few pictures where I am not sure.) Email me as KateAnne7 (at Yahoo.com). Thanks!!

Family!


Family!
Originally uploaded by Kate Anne
Aunt Betty Murphy, Uncle John Pfister, cousin Barb Miles. Fairview, PA.

Thursday, June 26, 2008

Erie!


Erie!
Originally uploaded by Kate Anne
In Erie. Yummy Breakfast at George's with Aunt Betty - 2614 Glenwood Park Ave. Owner Kathy Laskowski with Betty.

Saturday, June 21, 2008

Lunch view


Lunch view
Originally uploaded by Kate Anne
Capt's Waterfront Grill is the place for Kats together.

Friday, June 20, 2008

Thursday, June 19, 2008

Boston Harbor


Boston Harbor
Originally uploaded by Kate Anne
We are very close to the Harbor and much goings-on. We are at the Harborside Inn at 185 State Street and had a great dinner last night at the Black Rose also on State Street but were too tired to take advantage of the traditional Irish music which did NOT start at 9:30 pm but later. More to do....

Kat and Mom Kat in Boston


Kat and Mom Kat in Boston
Originally uploaded by Kate Anne
We did some of the Freedom Trail and then did a Harbor Cruise, hence the windblown hair -- plus Kat had left over sunburn.

More pictures will be at Flickr and some good ones from the Children of Abraham Peace Walk are there now.

Thursday, June 12, 2008

Evidence to Impeach the Son of a Bush!

Representative Dennis Kucinich has rightly introduced ARTICLES OF IMPEACHMENT OF PRESIDENT GEORGE W. BUSH and the facts speak for themselves. The matter has been sent to the Judiciary Committee where action seems unlikely given Speaker Nancy Pelosi's outrageous decision to take impeachment off the table. Where do we draw the line between political expedience and restoring the rule of law and the reputation of our country? To wait until January 22, 2009 to indict Bush and Cheney and others for war crimes may be expedient, but what if they steal the election again and we have President John McCain? Given his flip flop from even a tenuous straight talk express, McCain is not going to hold the Bush-Cheney cabal accountable. Meanwhile more reason for impeachment mounts. Dare we wait another day? Call your congressmember and speak to your rep: 202-224-3121.

Sunday, June 8, 2008

Play and Feed: FreeRice.Com

Thom Hartmann was interviewing someone at the United Nations this week who mentioned a learning/food giving site associated with Poverty.com called aptly FreeRice.com. It is vocabulary building for child, student, adult, and senior, and it will automatically set and adjust your level by how you answer or you can manually adjust the settings.

You are given a word and four definitions. If you are correct, 20 grains of rice are donated by the sponsors whose banners are displayed. (You see the rice mount up.) There is a little speaker which will pronounce the word if you click it, helpful. (I've been mispronouncing or perhaps alternatively pronouncing some words: AARgh!) I keep a running list of missed words or words I want to check further. The FAQ says the highest level is 60 but most don't get past 50. So far my best level has been 48 -- but I've only been playing two days. More important, I've help donate over 4000 grains of rice! Beat me!

I've added a smaller button to my side bar for your/my ease when this post gets buried, but try it now:

Help end world hunger

Saturday, June 7, 2008

Rachel Maddow: They Lied. Can we prosecute yet?

Air America Radio's (and MSNBC's) Rachel Maddow spoke of the Phase 2 results of the Senate investigation of the intelligence leading up to the Iraq invasion. Sure sounds like real grounds for impeachment and indictment of the Bush-Cheney cabal. Dare we hold off until after January 22nd? What if it is President McBush, err, McCain? Hear it for yourself and tell us and your friends what YOU think:

Grand lady! Grand life!


Grand lady!
Originally uploaded by Kate Anne
Lillian Heckler was honored this past Sunday by her church, All Saints Sunnyside, on the occasion of her 90th birthday. Lillian retired from FAO Schwarz only a few years ago, having worked her whole life there and meeting her husband there. She only retired from chairing the rummage sales several years ago, yet maintains one of the best tables. She has made a positive difference to the community! She's seen here with Edith Watson of the Welcoming Committee.

Later in the week she was feted by four of her other "daughters" -- she's the mother of Barbara and her brother Arthur -- at Bliss Bistro -- those pictures to follow soon.

Monday, June 2, 2008

Sam Seder, David Sirota


Sam Seder, David Sirota
Originally uploaded by Kate Anne
Sam Seder and David Sirota- at an event at Red Sky in Manhattan sponsored by Democratic Leadership for the 21st Century. David autographed copies of his book, The Uprising: An Unauthorized Tour of the Populist Revolt Scaring Wall Street and Washington.





Sam Seder and David Sirota
Sam and David, pre-interview

Kate Anne and Kat-in-Manhattan


Kate Anne and Kat
Originally uploaded by Kate Anne
At the David Sirota-Sam Seder event at Red Sky in Manhattan sponsored by Democratic Leadership for the 21st Century. We both bought copies of David's new book, The Uprising: An Unauthorized Tour of the Populist Revolt Scaring Wall Street and Washington - Photo taken by DFNYC's Josh.



Sam and Sederistas, the edit

[Edited version until Lucille gives the okay.]
Sederistas and Seder
From left to right, Mysterious Lucille, Sam, Kate Anne, and Kat-in-Manhattan. Photo taken by Sam fan Jessica.

Thursday, May 29, 2008

Flower kissed by rain


Flower kissed by rain 1
Originally uploaded by Kate Anne
Going to work post rain storm on Tuesday, I had to take a moment to snap this shot. The clematis on this Bliss Street fence was planted by neighbors who have moved on but the fruit of or rather flowering of their work continues to bless us living in Sunnyside. Yes, there are a few of these wire fences in historic Sunnyside Gardens -- and some are covered with gorgeous rain-kissed clematis.

Monday, May 26, 2008

Buy American Links

Thanks to Dorothy Morehead sending me this link to an MSNBC article on buying American products -- one of my favorite topics (and that of my cousin Jean and sister-in-law Becky), I have found a whole slew of new sites, including Stephanie's On My Mind blog associated with StillMadeInUSA.com. Good stuff to read and share with others. Check 'em out, and buy American when we can, please! It is for peace, it is for justice, it is for American security, it is for American jobs! Thanks!!

Saturday, May 24, 2008

The $3 Trillion Shopping Spree

This is fascinating -- both the video AND the online site it leads you to. Play it right and enjoy life as well as giving to others: live-assisting and -giving rather than life-destroying, which is what the illegal invasion and occupation is doing to Iraqis and our economy. Watch it -- then play the game. (It is fun to see what others buy.)

Friday, May 23, 2008

Sunday, May 18, 2008

Green Kevin


Green Kevin
Originally uploaded by Kate Anne
The Bacon Brothers performed at Riverkeeper's Shad Fest and Hudson River Celebration, near Cold Spring NY. More pictures on Flickr, including some of Bobby Kennedy Jr., Dan Aykroyd, and fiddler Carrie Rodriguez.

Thursday, May 15, 2008

Action


Action
Originally uploaded by Kate Anne
WQIDC and Citizen Action of NY held a panel discussion at All Saints Church in Sunnyside on the topic of Clean Elections and Social Justice.

Friday, May 9, 2008

Bush mining fact

Jon Elliott said on his Wednesday This is America radio show that there is a plan to extract uranium from the Grand Canyon -- by a British Bush-crony company! He added that one official has asked, "I wonder how Britains would react if an American company went to drill at Stone Henge?" This was reported not in the American corporate media, Jon concluded, but in the Times of London. Let's all say "Argh" together! [Thanks, Jon!]

Sunday, April 27, 2008

Meanwhile in Cleveland...Kat & MD

In touch with Katerina and Michael Dylan, Mom Kat and Krista learned that they, too, were out celebrating, not with Easter lamb (or fish) but with Wings!!

Kat attests to the Cleveland location -- glad that all were having fun!!

FW: Wings!

Happy Greek Easter!


Happy Greek Easter!
Originally uploaded by Kate Anne
Greek Easter and Krista couldn't get to her sister's. Mom Kat to the rescue. Dinner at Stamatis in Astoria.

Rod MacDonald-My Neighbors In Delray

Rod MacDonald simply and tellingly reflects on the 911 hijackers in this song, found on YouTube. Yes, we know there is more behind 911 than Rod's neighbors in Delray -- but the song is excellent and it is good to have Rod visually on the web in this and several other songs. He returns to NYC only a couple of times a year. (See earlier post.)

Thursday, April 17, 2008

Bush Lied to Congress

On Monday Thom Hartmann cited this letter from George W. Bush to Congress stating Iraq's involvement with 9-11 as justification for the Iraq invasion:

Presidential Letter
Text of a Letter from the President to the Speaker of the House of Representatives and the President Pro Tempore of the Senate


March 18, 2003

Dear Mr. Speaker: (Dear Mr. President:)

Consistent with section 3(b) of the Authorization for Use of Military Force Against Iraq Resolution of 2002 (Public Law 107-243), and based on information available to me, including that in the enclosed document, I determine that:

(1) reliance by the United States on further diplomatic and other peaceful means alone will neither (A) adequately protect the national security of the United States against the continuing threat posed by Iraq nor (B) likely lead to enforcement of all relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions regarding Iraq; and

(2) acting pursuant to the Constitution and Public Law 107-243 is consistent with the United States and other countries continuing to take the necessary actions against international terrorists and terrorist organizations, including those nations, organizations, or persons who planned, authorized, committed, or aided the terrorist attacks that occurred on September 11, 2001.

Sincerely,

GEORGE W. BUSH


(Of course New Yorkers without internet access are in the dark because WWRL has discontinued Hartmann to put on Ed Schultz in the noon to three spot -- this on the so-called flagship station! ARGH!!)

Sunday, April 6, 2008

Be the Change


Be the Change
Originally uploaded by Kate Anne
Yes!

Following the Satya Graha Forum sponsored event, participants waited in line to strew rose petals in front of the Gandhi statue at Union Square. While walking from the NYC Public Library as part of the Be the Change Walk, I conversed with Casey Landau and Claire Polsky (from Boulder CO). Once at Union Square I added my manila folder sign FOR Peace: Be Peace to the side of the Gandhi quotation I chose to carry: "Outward peace is useless without inner peace." I discussed the truth of the statement with a man who respectfully disagreed. Good talk also with another man who claimed the problem is greed and ego. Good event with good energy -- and the threatening weather cooperated.

FOR Peace: Be Peace


FOR Peace: Be Peace
Originally uploaded by Kate Anne
At the NYC Public Library on Fifth Ave. near 42nd St., NYC, a gathering of one of the four contingents of the Be the Change Walk to Union Square's Gandhi memorial -- See www.satya-graya.org for more info on this and other planned events. Participants carried Gandhi and Martin Luther King Jr. quotations.

Thursday, April 3, 2008

Celebrating a Marriage


Dana and David are wedding this weekend. We toasted to their happiness yesterday. It is gratifying to see two people find their true mate. David and Dana together add to the good things in this world. Mazel tov!

Thursday, March 20, 2008

One more birthday celebration


Gail and Kate Anne
Originally uploaded by Kate Anne
Gail and Kate Anne: find time for some personal peace and fun. Accentuating the positive creates a positive vibration which helps heal the world. [Read Dr. Wayne Dyer's Being in Balance and join us in being the answer.] Gail took me to Teodora Restaurant at 141 E. 57th in New York City -- try their salmon!

Sunday, March 16, 2008

A little birthday cake


A little birthday cake
Originally uploaded by Kate Anne
Following take-out Chinese food, we celebrated my birthday with Kat's yummy little chocolate cake ordered from Cheryl&Co., complete with candles, no less! -- More birthday pictures on my Flickr.com site.

Saturday, March 15, 2008

Flowers and more celebration

Tulips for Mom Kat
Birthday tulips


Michael Dylan and Gina sent Mom Kat tulips.

Birthday bouquet #2
Birthday roses


Krista had given Mom Kat roses.

Kate Anne, Joan, and Jane
Kate Anne, Joan, and Jane


And on Saturday night Joan Pagan and Jane Levy took Kate Anne to ANOTHER restaurant, this time the wonderful Italian restaurant, Trattoria L'Incontro, 21-76 31st Street in Astoria, Queens, New York City.

Friday, March 14, 2008

FW: Celebrating Kate Anne and Anne

"Happy birthday mom!", say Katerina Lyn and Michael Dylan from Anne's birthday party in Cleveland Ohio to New York City's Mom Kat.

Kate Anne and Krista


Kate Anne and Krista
Originally uploaded by Kate Anne
Celebrating:) -- Kate Anne and Krista, with two bouquets of birthday flowers: Wow! Dinner was at Blossom at 187 Ninth Avenue, New York City: yummy!

Wednesday, March 12, 2008

DFA-NYC's David and Dan


DFA-NYC's David and Dan
Originally uploaded by Kate Anne
Democracy For America's local Democracy For NYC [DFNYC] meets in Sunnyside at The Grind on the first Wednesday of the month. Here is activist blogger David Quintana with Dan Jacoby.

Tuesday, March 11, 2008

Bloomies, Tuesday night


Bloomies, Tuesday night
Originally uploaded by Kate Anne
Where's the bus? Where's Joe? Post Miss Pettigrew thoughts. (Charming period film, well-acted, touching, fun: see it.)

Friday, March 7, 2008

Iran, BAM 6.6 and Friends


Iran, BAM 6.6 and Friends
Originally uploaded by Kate Anne
Out for activism and a moving film on Iran, BAM 6.6 -- and talking afterwards were Helga Halaki and Gayle Cronin. The film was part of an evening sponsored by Fellowship of Reconciliation and it documents the beauty and compassion of Iran through the eyes of a Jewish American woman and others affected by the severe Bam earthquake several years ago. The unspoken theme, given today's political climate, is how devastating an attack on Iran would be to the Iranian people and their ancient culture. Get the film and see it. We bought it to show friends. And I also picked up a must-read book by the evening's speaker, Fatemeh Keshavarz, which she autographed: Jasmine and Stars -- Reading More Than Lolita in Tehran. Quite a lot to talk about. More to do. [Some pictures from the evening will be posted on Flickr.]

Thursday, March 6, 2008

Impeachment Update

Different things happening on the impeachment front. From ImpeachThem.com, I took an MSNBC poll on impeachment which has over a half million people voting for impeachment and only 9.1% saying No. Add your voice! Someone from the group called Thom Hartmann to remind everyone to email NH representative Betty Hall to support the New Hampshire resolution for impeachment. Obviously, NH folks have more voice but ours can be heard too as they can speak up for us:
Representative Betty Hall, the sponsor of HR24, needs huge support from everywhere in order to succeed. We ask YOU to send your message to the legislators of New Hampshire telling them for the sake our country, vote for HR 24! Send your message to I.Support.HR24@gmail.com TODAY! Rep. Hall asks all residents of New Hampshire to be sure to state in their emails where they live, as in Brookline, NH, and the NH emails will be printed for every legislator. MORE INFO


Finally, as of now WexlerWantsHearings.com has collected 230730 signatures for impeachment. Sign there if you haven't already. Please do what you can to quash any more damage from the Bush-Cheney regime, end this notion of imperial presidencies, and to restore the rule of law to our country. Thanks!

Friday, February 22, 2008

Rearview 2


Rearview 2
Originally uploaded by Kate Anne
From the kitchen window, finally we see snow covering Sunnyside Gardens.

Snow!


Snow!
Originally uploaded by Kate Anne
A beautiful natural sight: snow blankets Sunnyside Gardens! Normalcy. Peace. Amen.

Wednesday, February 20, 2008

Live with Love Rather than Force

You might quiet the whole world for a second
if you pray.

And if you love, if you
really love,

our guns will
wilt.

-- St. John of the Cross, as quoted in Wayne Dyer's Change Your Thoughts -- Change Your Life: Living the Wisdom of the Tao. (I have been reading Wayne's interpretation of the Tao Te Ching daily -- available through Hay House. Consider it.)

Sunday, February 17, 2008

Senate wrong but House Stands Up



Telecom Immunity for illegal spying? No Way! Tell the House to Hold their ground! Action idea and talking points posted at Peace Hugs.

Check out more great cartoons at Keith Tucker's What NowToons.com.

Rod takes Manhatten


Rod takes Manhatten
Originally uploaded by Kate Anne
The second cell phone shot of Village great Rod MacDonald.

Friends and fans may wish to check out my better camera Rod photos and also visit Rod's MySpace page where you can play some of his music.

(I met the Button Buddha Ruth Klein there -- kind enough to alert me of his being in NYC!)

Rod MacDonald revisits NYC


Multimedia message
Originally uploaded by Kate Anne
Folk singer Rod MacDonald wowed his audience at the People's Voice Cafe.

(I saw the Button Buddha Ruth Klein there enjoying Rod's great talent!)