Prin's Links for Social Work Students

My Resume

2011-05-14T10:08:00.002-05:00

Please feel free to make suggestions :) Thanks!

Found a new blog I like :)

2011-03-07T09:03:00.005-06:00

It's really difficult to find a sane person these days, it seems. The Litterbox Revisited is written by a sane person :)

The Quilt

2010-12-06T10:00:00.001-06:00

The Quilt

My mother gave me a quilt, made especially for me by my grandmother, when I was about ten or so. It was the most beautiful thing I had ever seen. You could just feel the love that had gone into it with each tiny hand sewn stitch. I think she gave it to me at such a young age, to make me feel like I did have a family that loved me, besides her. She understood that something like that was so important to an only child being raised by a single parent. From the day I got that quilt I had it on my bed, even if that bed, later on, was in the back seat of my car.
Last night, I was looking at that quilt and thinking that my “family” is in about the same shape as that quilt. It is virtually nonexistent all around the borders and what does exist, is hanging in strings. It is dingy and worn and possibly beyond repair, but yet, I want to repair it. I went to sleep last night dreaming of how I could possibly repair it. How could you repair something like that without carefully removing every last hand sewn stitch, removing that wonderfully warm flannel backing, the real cotton batting and possible half of the once beautiful teal blue border? The only part of that quilt that was sewn on a machine was the outlying border. Then, even if you went to all that trouble of removing all the stitches, what would be the point? It would never, ever be the same. Much like a broken family.
This time of year makes me wish for a family more than any other time of year. I see all the commercials of happy families coming together to decorate their homes and share presents and just go socialize with friends. We won't be doing that because there are only the two of us and at the present we are in much the same shape as that quilt.
The boy is pulling away from me as he should be. In fact, he should have done it several years ago but he didn't, because he knows, when he does I will be totally alone. He doesn't go and I feel guilty every day that he stays because I know I can't make it without him. He is sick of me and I am so sick of me. It has been two years since I got my license and no job yet. I have just gotten to the point that I cannot even make myself go look for a job. Being able to handle rejection has never been my strength, in fact, letting rejection get to me is the worst quality I have. Maybe writing all this down and actually putting it out there will have some effect.
The thing that makes me the most ill is that I do have ideas for possible jobs, but even after thinking about how to talk someone into hiring me I just don't follow through with it. I just can not muster enough belief in myself to go on and do it. For example, there was this job opening with the state health department for a Social Worker V. Now, I know I would not qualify for that job but I know I would make the person they did hire an excellent assistant. This is basically what they wanted for that position:
“Interviews clients and/or family to assess the client's current developmental level, ego strengths and deficits, situation strengths and weaknesses and mental status. Discusses the proposed plan with the client detailing the recommendations and the reasoning for them, and identifies alternative interventions and methods. Evaluates social work program effectiveness; implements procedural changes to ensure proper compliance. Teaches concepts of appropriate social work principles internally and externally. Coordinates external services for clients and serves as client advocate to ensure continuing services are received. Meets with community groups to discuss and review available programs and to identify areas where resources need to be expanded or reallocated. Develops treatment plans through consultation with professionals from areas such as nursing, psychology, psychiatry, medicine and chaplaincy. Monitors and documents progress of clients and makes service/treatment plan adjustments. Provides individual/group supervision of lower-level social service staff. Conducts community planning, needs assessment and evaluation concerning societal conditions which impact on social functioning.”
In the ad on Careerbuilder there was also mention of grantwriting. Now this job interested me very much, possibly more than any other job I've seen over the past two years. It's in public health and works with single parents. I know I could provide this person with awesome tools to enable her to do her job better. But did I try for it? No. Why? That is the question. It makes me sick that I just can not muster the belief in myself to go on out there and go for something I think I would be good at. Shoot...

Anyway, I kind of got off track...but it helped :)

H.R. 3590 ENR Best Known as the Health Care Bill

2010-11-22T10:49:00.003-06:00

So, I got sick of people posting Fox/Tea Party crap on Facebook, I decided we should all read the actual health care bill. The thing is, I have also come to the conclusion, the powers that be don't really want us to do that. My computer crashed three times as I was trying to get to a pdf file to link to on here. I persevered :) The title link will take you to the bill, but you might want to start with this page first...just in case you don't have years to wade through the whole thing. That page will give you a more detailed table of contents, so you can scroll down and take note of just where you want to start. Have fun!

New Oxford English Dictionary...Bite Me!!!

2010-11-16T05:48:00.002-06:00

Threw my New Oxford English dictionary in the trash this morning. Why? Along with seeing her on Dancing with the Stars and with her new reality series "Sarah Palin's Alaska" their honor of her new made up word "refudate" was just the straw that broke the camel's back.

" Sarah Palin's reality show scored huge ratings for its premiere Sunday night, while the guardians of usage at the New Oxford American Dictionary awarded the former Alaska governor the higher-brow distinction of coining 2010's "word of the year" — "refudiate" — via her Twitter account....
The former governor used the word in a Twitter message last summer, calling on "peaceful Muslims" to "refudiate" a planned mosque near the site of the 9/11 attacks in New York. When critics pounced on the made-up verb, Palin deleted the Tweet and replaced it with one that called on Muslims to "refute" the site — even though that usage made no sense, either, since to refute is to prove something to be untrue.

But in a release today, the New Oxford American Dictionary defended Palin's use of the word. "From a strictly lexical interpretation of the different contexts in which Palin has used 'refudiate,' we have concluded that neither 'refute' nor 'repudiate' seems consistently precise, and that 'refudiate' more or less stands on its own, suggesting a general sense of 'reject,' " the New Oxford American Dictionary said in a press release.

And lest you think the New Oxford editors were only hailing "refudiate" as a publicity stunt, let the record show that Palin's coinage was also named to the honor roll of the Global Language Monitor project — together with terms such as "spillcam" and "vuvuzela."

It has already started...the media push trying to prove to us that Sarah Palin really is smart enough to be president. Makes me sick...

An Open Letter to Republicans from The Opinionated Liberal's blog

2010-11-11T17:43:00.003-06:00

I know you all are not expecting me to keep quiet about the election...are you?? I will be getting back onto my soapbox shortly, but for now The Opinionated Liberal has formulated a letter to Republicans that I wish I had written. See below:

"Dear Republican-controlled House,

I am writing this as a concerned citizen. You won the election this year, but why? While I respect the election process, I do have some things to say about the process and its outcome. Did the Democrats have weak candidates? Do Americans not like their ideas? Was the Democratic base unmotivated? Sure, maybe these are partly true. But, I have to say the major reason Americans voted against the Democrats was the economy. While we may not technically be in a recession any longer, there are still a lot of people without jobs. So was this a referendum on Obama, or was he made a scapegoat for the economic situation? My vote is for the latter.

And on the election process; with the SCOTUS decision in Citizens United v. FEC, corporations can spend unlimited money secretly to influence campaigns. And to whom will they be donating that money? Conservatives, who promise to deregulate their industries and save them billions of dollars. And in 2010, the corporations were spending. Corporate influence is the driving force behind so much corruption in Washington. So what will you do to resolve the issues raised by this decision?

Now I would like to talk about some of your campaign talking points. If your new message is truly that of fiscal responsibility, what programs will you be cutting? Medicare or Social Security (thus alienating seniors from your party)? The bloated army (thus alienating your own base)? How about your own pay? Since taxpayers are on the hook for your paycheck, shouldn't you cut your pay? Isn't this just another form of a government handout? And about the healthcare thing; if you defund the healthcare bill, you should say no to the insurance that you get because of your job. If regular Americans don't deserve good healthcare, why should you be getting it at our expense? Will you raise taxes on Americans to reduce the deficit? Don't just say that you'll cut waste/fraud. That is a talking point, not a real solution to reducing the national debt.

What will you be doing to help create jobs? This leads me to a side note: You know, if government doesn't create jobs, and what we need is a smaller government, then why do Republicans even run for office? Doesn't that contribute to the problem as they see it?

And with regards to deregulation of the market to "get government out of the way," let's explore what that has led to in the past:

1. The housing bubble collapse.
2. Fraudulent, predatory loan practices.
3. The Deepwater Horizon disaster.
4. The credit crisis.

# The practices on Wall Street, such as trading derivatives, that contributed to the recession.
# Decreasing value of the dollar.
# Oil shortages.
# Deadly mining disasters.
# Increased prices of things like oil, gold, and materials for manufacturing.
# Lots more billionaires.

All of this eventually required Bush programs like TARP, the bank bailouts, and the "stimulus bill," which cost taxpayers about $1 TRILLION to prevent a worldwide depression.

On the flip-side, what has regulation given Americans?

1. The 40-hour work week (as opposed to working 60 or more for little pay).
2. The right to unionize and petition for better working conditions.
3. Laws against child labor.
4. Safe food and medicines.
5. Safe railroads, roads, airports, and other infrastructure.
6. Safe working conditions.
7. A minimum wage.
8. Social security and Medicare.
9. Clean air and water.
10. Beautiful natural parks for our children and grandchildren to appreciate.
11. The FDIC, which protects you in case of runs on banks.
12. A credit card bill of rights.
13. Allowing children to stay on their parents' healthcare until age 26.
14. Health insurance companies can no longer deny coverage because of pre-existing conditions, or drop you if you get sick.
15. Much more.

So I think I have made a good case for regulation. It isn't perfect, and isn't always right, but it is better than allowing kids to work in sweatshops and having the fear of losing your job because someone else will work for lower wages. Deregulation may make companies richer, but it doesn't make them hire. It gives them incentives to avoid that.

So, what is your real plan for America? If you give tax cuts, you raise the deficit, and you are not fiscally responsible. If you cut social programs, you will reduce the deficit, but you will lose voters. If you cut the size of the military (which I think is practical), you will lose your own base. If you use Keynesian fiscal stimulus to get the economy going and create jobs (and create programs like FDR did in the New Deal), you will raise the deficit, and look like complete hypocrites to those who voted for you. So how can you possibly stay true to your supposed values without losing almost everyone who would vote for you?

In addition, I have some concerns about your platform in regards to civil rights. Why can't gay people openly serve in the armed forces to defend the country they love? Why do you say you oppose the government intruding in private lives, but want to deny gays the right to marry? This is government intrusion in the bedroom. The common argument I hear is that if homosexuality is allowed, then bestiality and pedophilia will follow; however, this is a fallacious slippery slope argument. In addition, I have a problem with those who speak out against gays, but are either secretly homosexual themselves, or are committing adultery. If you are the party of family values, why isn't adultery a crime? Why is it OK to allow adultery, divorce, and domestic abuse for straight couples, but it is not OK for two people who love each other to get married?

And why should Freedom of Religion apply only to Christians? Placing the Ten Commandments (which it is absurd to say our government is based on, and I could write a whole book in support of my view) in public places discriminates against all other faiths, and against non-believers. And about the "Ground Zero Mosque," why can't a house of worship be placed in New York? It is OK for a strip club to be on the street, but not a mosque? This is bigotry, and is an example of blunt racism. Religious extremists attacked America, not Islam. And denying Muslims the right to build a house of worship, besides being unconstitutional according to the First Amendment, is no less than religious extremism.

Also, what will you do about immigration? Demonizing all immigrants as drug traffickers or as lazy, welfare-sucking bums sends the wrong image to the world. It also avoids the problem we have; that is, it is hard for people to become American citizens. We need institutions to teach immigrants the English language, and allow these people to become taxpaying, patriotic, hardworking citizens. And, we need to punish businesses who hire illegals. So what is your plan?

Also, what will you be doing about education? Because many of our jobs are lost permanently overseas, education will be the key to revitalizing America, and create a long-term solution to the jobs crisis. An educated workforce will create the innovators that create the jobs of tomorrow, and the technology of the future. These could be jobs in medicine and curing disease, or the green technology that will free us from our dependence on foreign oil. Yet study after study shows we lag far behind the world in areas like reading, science, and mathematics. What will you do to address this crisis?

As you can see, I have some problems with your platform, and serious questions about your economic plans and promises. In conclusion, I have this to say:

The rhetoric worked during the election; you won the seats. Now it is time to own up to those big words with bigger deeds. Get to work. Help restore America, and make us a world leader again. You burned America once, and we won't tolerate it again.

Sincerely,
The Opinionated Liberal"

That pretty much sums it up, doesn't it? We have so much work to do and so little time. I'm taking suggestions on how we can change from a nation that can only understand instant gratification into a nation prepared to be patient and support the one's elected to change the ugliness, even if politics doesn't always allow us to revel in the whole pie...we have a portion for now....patience is a virtue.

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month

2010-10-15T10:07:00.005-05:00

I have an entire section devoted to domestic violence and homelessness. I have found some new links. It seems the state of Florida is taking domestic violence in their state very seriously. Kudos to them! I wish all states would do the same so all intimate partners being abused could empower themselves enough to remove themselves from the situation.

First Step (English) also available in Creole (way cool) and Spanish

FCADV resource links page

Some interesting ones I have never seen before:

Southerners on New Ground

Pets and Women's Shelters (PAWS) Program

Mending the Sacred Hoop (Native American and Alaska Native)

National Latino Alliance for the Elimination of Domestic Violence (ALIANZA)

Asian & Pacific Islander Institute on Domestic Violence

Institute on Domestic Violence in the African American Community

The Women of Color Network

*edit*

I found some more. I have been looking for links concerning domestic violence against older women.

Developing Services for Older Abused Women: A Guide for Domestic Abuse Programs

Interactive Training Exercises on Abuse in Later Life

Golden Voices: Support Groups for Older Abused Women

State by state resource list for victims of domestic violence in later life (2008)

Violence Against Women Online Resources

Many pdf's written by human service providers on all areas of domestic violence, including the one's listed above after the *edit*

Oh...Hell....No!!!

2010-06-13T19:43:00.004-05:00

Click the title link and please go sign this petition! Thanks!

I imagine I will post a big ole rant later, but for now I'm just too angry! The words just won't come!

Postcards from Amerah

2010-06-08T09:59:00.002-05:00

It's been awhile, I know. My fault, not hers. I can't remember just how long it's been since I talked to her, but she knows what I'm doing and she knows why and she's just waiting, patiently, as always, for me to gather my nerve and face what I need to and speak of it, to her. I'm doing what I always do, when I'm faced with the possibility of great devastating loss...I run...I refuse to acknowledge...I try to shroud myself in as much denial as I can find, even if I don't know if it's as bad as it could be. Even the smallest inkling of yet another devastating loss is just to much for me to bear. She's the closest female friend I have, after all. Tears are pouring down my face as I write this and it's silly because I don't even know! How stupid is that?

Anyway, that's my confession for the day. Here's the postcard.

"(The Writer: Me – some things I think about on the healing journey called life.)

I had an "aha" moment this morning. I started thinking about old friends...friends from back in the day...friends who would share their deepest secrets - the good, bad and the ugly with each other...and, because of different circumstances - a move, a marriage, a life style change, etc. lost touch with each other...friends you still call friends because of the “good old days"...friends I still love and miss.

My "aha" moment" was: just may be we stopped communicating because of "the good old days" because when we see each other’s old stuff is triggered (shame because of shenanigans/unhealthy behaviors); just may be we shy away from each other because we have changed - we become Christians, Muslims, Buddist, etc. and we my be thinking, because one of us may or may not have made a change, "...she knows to much about my good old days and she might be judging me."

To my dear friends from "the good old days", I ain't the one. When you "walk" back to "the good old days" if you would just look down you will see a third set of footprints, God and mine. You will see our new "running" buddies, Grace and Mercy! And, when you open your closet door, guess who have a couple of skeletons "standing" close to you - mine, my dear friend, MINE!

Today, my dear, dear friend, whatever skeletons that are lingering in the closet of the past - we have been forgiven - Jesus has paid the price. And when I see you...when we meet again, my love for you is steadfast, unmovable and abounds in my respect for you - I ain't the one to cast the first stone. I'm your "side-kick", your trusted friend, and your sister-friend in Christ. You my dear, dear friend is not a "season" on this journey called life with me...you are a life time friend. Thanks for the memories, my friend...the good...the bad...and the ugly - they made us who we are today - CHILDREN OF GOD!"

Major Depression , the Oil Spill and Hurricane Season...

2010-05-28T10:25:00.007-05:00

Most of you know, I suffer from major depression. Most of the time I keep it under control with exercise, vitamins and diet because my body just will not tolerate the medications on the market today. I've been doing quite a bit a yard work lately so it was well under control. Until yesterday, when President Obama had his press conference on what all is being done to help with the disastrous mess.

Now, I have purposely been avoiding the news, taking my mother's stance of "lie to me, I don't want to know it" on the issue, not because I don't care, but because all I can think about is what will be next to destroy our coastline and our main resources for revenue in the Gulf Coast Region? Then it hit me. Hurricane Season. I can not begin to describe the images that are going through my head. Things like a fine film of nasty oil sludge being sprayed all over everything from the coast all the way inland. A Hurricane will pick that stuff up and drop it wherever it damn well pleases. Everyone in it's path should be worried,

So, you know me, I went about searching for what the 2010 hurricane forecast will be. It ain't going to be pretty....

*Activity for the Atlantic Region is expected to be 85% above normal for the 2010 season

Here I was just going to include a link...not good enough. I want you all to read the entire prediction and NOAA's explanation of the scientific factors precluding this prediction. Scary stuff...

"DISCUSSION

1. Expected 2010 activity

Known climate signals and evolving oceanic and atmospheric conditions, combined with dynamical model forecasts, indicate a high likelihood of above normal activity during the 2010 Atlantic hurricane season. This outlook calls for an 85% chance of an above-normal season, only a 10% chance of a near-normal season, and a 5% chance of a below normal season.

An important measure of the total overall seasonal activity is the NOAA Accumulated Cyclone Energy (ACE) index, which accounts for the intensity and duration of named storms and hurricanes during the season. We estimate a 70% chance that the 2010 seasonal ACE range will be 155%-270% of the median. According to NOAA’s hurricane season classifications, an ACE value above 117% of the 1950-2000 median reflects an above-normal season. An ACE value above 175% of the median reflects an exceptionally active (or hyperactive) season.

Consistent with the expected ACE range, the 2010 Atlantic hurricane season is expected (with 70% chance) to produce 14-23 named storms, 8-14 hurricanes, and 3-7 major hurricanes. Therefore, this season could see activity comparable to a number of extremely active seasons since 1995. If the 2010 activity reaches the upper end of our predicted ranges, it will be one of the most active seasons on record.

For the U.S. and the region around the Caribbean Sea, the historical probability of a hurricane strike generally increases with increasing seasonal activity. During exceptionally active seasons, the historical probabilities increase markedly for multiple hurricane strikes in these regions. Nonetheless, predicting the location, number, timing, and strength, of hurricanes landfalls is ultimately related to the daily weather patterns, which are not predictable weeks or months in advance. As a result, it is currently not possible to reliably predict the number or intensity of landfalling hurricanes at these extended ranges, or whether a given locality will be impacted by a hurricane this season. Therefore, NOAA does not make an official seasonal hurricane landfall outlook.

Because of the ongoing oil crisis in the Gulf of Mexico, we are including some historical statistics of tropical cyclone activity for this region (excluding the Bay of Campeche) based on past above normal seasons. These statistics do not represent an explicit forecast for tropical cyclones in the Gulf of Mexico during 2010, as it is impossible to reliably predict such activity so far in advance. Historically, all above normal seasons have produced at least one named storm in the Gulf of Mexico, and 95% of those seasons have at least two named storms in the Gulf. Most of this activity (80%) occurs during August-October. However, 50% of above normal seasons have had at least one named storm in the region during June-July.

2. Science behind the 2010 Outlook

The 2010 Atlantic hurricane season outlook primarily reflects an expected set of conditions during the peak months (August-October) of the season that is very conducive to increased Atlantic hurricane activity. This expectation is based on the prediction of three climate factors, all of which are conducive historically to increased tropical cyclone activity. These climate factors are: 1) the tropical multi-decadal signal, which has contributed to the ongoing high-activity era for Atlantic hurricanes that began in 1995, 2) a continuation of exceptionally warm sea surface temperatures (SSTs) in the Main Development Region (MDR, which includes the Caribbean Sea and tropical Atlantic ocean between 9oN-21.5oN; Goldenberg et al. 2001), and 3) either ENSO-neutral or La Niña conditions, with La Niña becoming increasingly likely.

The outlook also takes into account dynamical model predictions from new models such as the NOAA Climate Forecast System (CFS), the European Centre for Medium Range Weather Forecasting (ECMWF), the United Kingdom Meteorology (UKMET) office model, and the EUROpean Seasonal to Inter-annual Prediction (EUROSIP) ensemble. All of these models are indicating a high likelihood of an extremely active season.

a. Expected continuation of tropical multi-decadal signal

One primary factor guiding this outlook is an expected continuation of the tropical multi-decadal signal, which has contributed to the current high-activity era in the Atlantic basin that began in 1995. This signal is associated with a coherent set of atmospheric conditions, all of which are conducive to increased Atlantic hurricane activity.

During 1995-2009, some key aspects of the tropical multi-decadal signal within the MDR have included warmer than average SSTs, reduced vertical wind shear and weaker easterly trade winds, below-average sea-level pressure, and a configuration of the African easterly jet that is more conducive to hurricane development from tropical waves moving off the African coast. Many of these atmospheric features typically become evident during late April and May, as the atmosphere across the tropical Atlantic and Africa begins to transition into its summertime monsoon state.

Several of these conditions are now present, and they are expected to persist through the hurricane season because we anticipate they are linked in part to the tropical multi-decadal signal. These conditions include 1) weaker (i.e. anomalous westerly) trade winds in the lower atmosphere, anomalous easterly winds in the upper atmosphere, anticyclonic circulation (i.e. streamfunction) anomalies in the upper atmosphere in both hemispheres, and reduced vertical wind shear.

It is impossible to know with certainty whether the multi-decadal signal is indeed continuing during 2010, and current climate models cannot skillfully forecast the multi-decadal variability of the Atlantic climate system. Nonetheless, given that key anomaly patterns now present have also been present for the past 15 years, and have previously been linked to the tropical multi-decadal signal, it is reasonable to expect that they are again linked to this signal. If so, this would reflect a continuation of the active Atlantic phase of the tropical multi-decadal signal that began in 1995.

b. Above average SSTs in the Main Development Region

The second factor guiding the outlook is the expectation of above-average to near-record SSTs in the MDR during August-October. It is very possible that the SST anomalies will be much larger than that typically associated with the multi-decadal signal. Record warm SSTs are now present in the MDR, with departures exceeding +1.5oC nearly everywhere east of the Caribbean Islands. Record warm temperatures were also present during March and April, with area-averaged departures of +1.3oC observed in April. This monthly value is much larger than the previous record departure of +0.95oC seen in 1958. This warmth is much larger than anywhere else in the global tropics, and is further indication that climate conditions are favorable for hurricane development in the Atlantic basin.

A set of factors likely combined to produce the record warmth now in the Atlantic. Based on the observations, the likely cause of the extreme Atlantic warming is a pronounced weakening of the northeasterly trade winds that led to a sharp increase in Atlantic SSTs during February and March. This increase occurred in combination with the typical warming associated with El Niño. It is also superimposed upon the background warming associated with the warm Atlantic phase of the multi-decadal signal that has been in place since 1995, and with longer term trends.

Based on the observations, a key to the development of this record warmth was a sharp increase in SST anomalies during February and March, in response to a significant weakening of the normal northeasterly trade winds and low-level ridge over the eastern tropical Atlantic north of the MDR. These overall anomaly patterns are consistent with El Niño (Knaff 1997, Chelliah and Bell 2004). However, their amplitude is more strongly related to a persistent upper-level jet stream pattern that featured blocking activity at high-latitudes of the North Atlantic and a strong jet stream across the southern North Atlantic. This pattern was associated with a persistent negative North Atlantic Oscillation and positive East Atlantic circulation pattern, which at times was linked to a hemispheric circulation pattern called the negative phase of the Arctic Oscillation.

Two other instances of very warm SSTs have been observed in the MDR during February-April (1958 and 1969). In both years, the SST anomaly subsequently decreased by roughly 50% during the summer months. For 2010, although the record SST departures may well decrease somewhat, we still expect a continuation of above average SSTs throughout the Atlantic hurricane season. This outlook is consistent with the current (and expected) pattern of reduced trade winds across the tropical Atlantic in association with the expected tropical multi-decadal signal. However, it is very possible that the SST departures will be much larger than that associated with the multi-decadal signal. Several climate models are predicting either near-record or record SSTs in the MDR during August-October.

c. ENSO-Neutral or La Niña

Another climate factor known to significantly impact Atlantic hurricane activity is the El Niño/ Southern Oscillation (ENSO). The three phases of ENSO are El Niño, La Niña, and Neutral. El Niño tends to suppress Atlantic hurricane activity, while La Niña tends to enhance it (Gray 1984). These typical impacts can be strongly modulated by conditions associated with a low- or high-activity era. We expect either Neutral or La Niña conditions during the 2010 Atlantic hurricane season, with La Niña now becoming increasingly likely.

The El Niño episode, which contributed to the below normal Atlantic hurricane season last year, has dissipated. Conditions in the equatorial Pacific Ocean are becoming increasingly favorable for the development of La Niña. Also, in the upper atmosphere the pattern of circulation (i.e. streamfunction) anomalies during the last 30 days, and the last 60 days, indicates cyclonic anomalies in the central subtropical Pacific of both hemispheres (blue shading in NH, red shading in SH). This pattern suggests that the atmosphere has already transitioned out of its El Niño state observed last winter and early spring.

All ENSO forecast models currently predict either Neutral or La Niña conditions during the Atlantic hurricane season. During the last few months, the models have been increasingly indicating the development of La Niña during the summer. La Niña contributes to reduced vertical wind shear over the western tropical Atlantic which, when combined with conditions associated with the ongoing high activity era and warm Atlantic SSTs, increases the probability of an exceptionally active Atlantic hurricane season (Bell and Chelliah 2006). NOAA’s high-resolution CFS model indicates the development of La Niña-like circulation and precipitation anomalies during July.

3. Further analysis of the Ongoing High Activity Era in the Atlantic Basin

Atlantic hurricane seasons exhibit extended periods lasting decades of generally above-normal or below-normal activity. These fluctuations in hurricane activity result almost entirely from differences in the number of hurricanes and major hurricanes forming from tropical storms first named in the MDR.

The current high-activity era has been in place since 1995. Hurricane seasons during 1995-2009 have averaged about 14.5 named storms, 8 hurricanes, and 4 major hurricanes, with an average ACE index of 160% of the median. NOAA classifies ten of the fifteen seasons since 1995 as above normal, with seven being hyperactive (ACE > 175% of median). Only five seasons since 1995 have not been above normal, which include four El Niño years (1997, 2002, 2006, and 2009) and the 2007 season.

This high level of activity since 1995 contrasts sharply to the low-activity era of 1971-1994 (Goldenberg et al. 2001), which averaged only 8.5 named storms, 5 hurricanes, and 1.5 major hurricanes, and had an average ACE index of only 75% of the median. One-half of the seasons during this low-activity era were below normal, only three were above normal (1980, 1988, 1989), and none were hyperactive.

Within the MDR, the atmospheric circulation anomalies that contribute to these long-period fluctuations in hurricane activity are strongly linked to the Tropics-wide multi-decadal signal (Bell and Chelliah 2006). A change in the phase of the multi-decadal signal coincides with the transition in 1995 from a low-activity era to the current high-activity era.

You know, it seems as though we haven't fully recovered from Katrina. You can still see piles of wreckage here and there that have obviously been there for awhile that people just forgot about and/or learned to live with. Can you even imagine how hard it will be to remove all that wreckage if it's covered in nasty, sludgy oil? My heart breaks mostly for the wildlife, they can't go inside to air-purified homes and be safe.

When is the healthcare reform going to take effect? July? I think I might need the drugs to get through this one.....

This is so funny...and so me!

2010-05-05T19:15:00.002-05:00

Wow, it's been three months since i posted anything on here! Sorry about that. Been having sort of a rough go of it lately...but this made me laugh so hard I had to post it!

A.A.A.D.D.

> KNOW THE SYMPTOMS ..... PLEASE READ!
>
> Thank goodness there's a name for this disorder.
> Somehow, I feel better even though I have it!!
>
> Recently, I was diagnosed with A.A.A.D.D.
> Age Activated Attention Deficit Disorder.
>
> This is how it manifests:
>
> I decide to water my garden. As I turn on the hose in the driveway, I
look over at my car and decide it needs washing.
>
> As I start toward the garage, I notice mail on the porch table that I
brought up from the mail box earlier.
>
> I decide to go through the mail before I wash the car.
>
> I lay my car keys on the table, put the junk mail in the garbage can
under the table, and notice that the can is full.
>
> So, I decide to put the bills back on the table and take out the
garbage first.
>
> But then I think, since I'm going to be near the mailbox when I take
out the garbage anyway, I may as well pay the bills first.
>
> I take my check book off the table, and see that there is only one
check left.
> My extra checks are in my desk in the study, so I go inside the house
to my desk where I find the can of Pepsi I'd been drinking.
>
> I'm going to look for my checks, but first I need to push the Pepsi
aside so that I don't accidentally knock it over.
>
> The Pepsi is getting warm, and I decide to put it in the refrigerator
to keep it cold.
>
> As I head toward the kitchen with the Pepsi, a vase of flowers on the
counter catches my eye -- they need water.
>
> I put the Pepsi on the counter and discover my reading glasses that
I've been searching for all morning. I decide I better put them back on my desk, but first I'm going to water the flowers..
>
> I set the glasses back down on the counter, fill a container with
water and suddenly spot the TV remote. Someone left it on the kitchen table.
>
> I realize that tonight when we go to watch TV, I'll be looking for the
remote but I won't remember that it's on the kitchen table, so I decide to put it back in the den where it belongs, but first I'll water the flowers.
>
> I pour some water in the flowers, but quite a bit of it spills on the
floor.
>
> So, I set the remote back on the table, get some towels and wipe up
the spill.
>
> Then, I head down the hall trying to remember what I was planning to
do.
>
> At the end of the day:
> the car isn't washed
> the bills aren't paid
> there is a warm can of Pepsi sitting on the counter the flowers don't
> have enough water, there is still only 1 check in my check book, I
> can't find the remote, I can't find my glasses, and I don't remember
> what I did with the car keys.
> Then, when I try to figure out why nothing got done today, I'm really
> baffled because I know I was busy all day and I'm really
tired.
>
> I realize this is a serious problem,
> and I'll try to get some help for it but first I'll check my
e-mail....
>
> Do me a favor.
> Forward this message to everyone you know because I don't remember who
I've sent it to.
>
Don't laugh -- if this isn't you yet, your day is
>
> COMING

Tough times for Ottawa's homeless 'Blues Lady'

2010-02-15T09:51:00.004-06:00

Click the title link for the story. I know you are wondering why I put the story on this page and not on the blues page? I probably will put it on there later, but go read the story and you will understand. There are two words in the story that sum it all up... then come back over here and donate if you can and I will make sure this great lady gets whatever we can scrape up for her.

Isn't this an absolutely awesome face!?!?!

2009-12-12T23:21:00.003-06:00

With an awesome story to go along with it :) She kind of reminds me of Amerah, maybe when her hair turns totally white :) Click the title link to read the story.

Guess Where I Live???

2009-11-17T21:26:00.003-06:00

Got this in my feed. Click the title link for the full article including pretty charts...

Red State Reality: Unhealthiest Residents, Worst Health Care

Throughout their all-out campaign to stop health care reform, Republican leaders have relied on questionable forecasts from the Lewin Group, a subsidiary of insurer UnitedHealth Group. Now, another study funded by UnitedHealth has some unwelcome news for the GOP braintrust: the red states they represent are the unhealthiest in the nation. Following on the heels of the Commonwealth Fund's 2009 Scorecard of state health care system performance, the United Health Foundation's report is just the latest confirmation that health care is worst where Republicans poll best.

As Forbes noted:

The annual ranking looks at 22 indicators of health, including everything from how many children receive recommended vaccinations, to obesity and smoking rates, to cancer deaths.

The diagnosis isn't pretty for Republicans committed to denying the health care their constituents need most of all. The 2009 rankings (above) reveal that nine of the top 10 healthiest states voted for Barack Obama in 2008. Conversely, 9 of the 10 cellar dwellers backed John McCain in 2008; four years earlier, the 15 unhealthiest states voted for George W. Bush for President.

With Vermont topping the list and Mississippi bringing up the rear, Americans would do to listen to Dr. Howard Dean and not Governor Haley Barbour when it comes to the health care debate.

Vermont ranked first this year thanks in part to its low rate of obesity, high number of doctors and a low rate of child poverty. New England in general sets a benchmark for the country, the report found. All six New England states are in the top 10. These states have favorable demographics and an excellent public health infrastructure, including a large number of doctors per capita.

Eight of the 10 bottom-ranked states are from the south, with Mississippi coming in dead last for the ninth consecutive year. Mississippi has a sky-high death rate from heart disease and high infant mortality. In general, residents of these states are more likely to be smokers or to be obese, the report found. They also have worse health insurance coverage, fewer physicians per capita and live in areas with high violent crime and more child poverty.

As it turns out, Mississippi residents aren't merely the sickest in the United States. They are also plagued by the worst state health care system in America.

In October, the Commonwealth Fund released its 2009 state health care scorecard. There, too, Mississippi led the Republican south in providing dismal health care. Again, while nine of the top 10 performing states voted for Barack Obama in 2008, four of the bottom five (including Arkansas, Mississippi, Oklahoma and Louisiana) and 14 of the last 20 backed John McCain. (That at least is an improvement from the 2007 data, in which all 10 cellar dwellers had voted for George W. Bush three years earlier.)

In theory, their steadfast opposition to the health care legislation before the Senate should present a double quandary for the Republican leadership in Congress and in the states. After all, their residents not only need health care reform desperately. As it turns out, the funding for it would come in part from blue state taxpayers.

As the Washington Post noted in May ("A Red State Booster Shot"):

Health-care reform may be overdue in a country with 45 million uninsured and soaring medical costs, but it will also represent a substantial wealth transfer from the North and the East to the South and the West. The Northeast and the Midwest have much higher rates of coverage than the rest of the country, led by Massachusetts, where all but 3 percent of residents are insured. The disproportionate share of uninsured is in the South and the West, the result of employment patterns, weak unions and stingy state governments. Texas leads the way, with a quarter of its population uninsured; it would be at the top even without its many illegal immigrants.

As it turns out, health care reform spending would be little different from the overall pattern of red state socialism. That is, red state residents disproportionately benefit from the steady one-way flow of tax dollars and earmarks spreading the wealth from Washington to their states.

Of course, no amount of data will stop Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell warning of a "government-run" plan that "that denies, delays, or rations health care." After all, with his home state's 41st and 45th place rankings in resident health and health care performance, McConnell's nightmare future is Kentucky's horror story present."

Slacking...

2009-11-08T09:42:00.002-06:00

Ok, I know I've been slacking. I own that, but it seems that most of you have been slacking too. Why else would congress be allowed to get away with the crap they are pulling lately? Because we all are slacking. We have forgotten our voice of just a scant year ago. We are not writing, calling, yelling our opposition to their tricks of late. Here's some nice (sic) reading for you this morning...

Right-wing protesters at GOP rally display prominent sign tying health care to the Holocaust.

The big banks are still up to their old tricks

Goodbye to Reforms of 2002

This is the one that pissed me off the most...

New York Businesses Get H1N1 Vaccine

Ok, that's my rant for the day...make a call, write a letter...let them know we are still out here and we are still watching and waiting...oh and yeah, still without a job, still starving and our babies are still going without...but hell yeah, you go on and get your H1N1 vaccine, the country would be devastated if you got sick and died...

It's to little to late for us, but finally they did something for the rest of you...

2009-11-04T17:09:00.002-06:00

House Votes to Speed Up Credit Card Reforms

Maloney-Frank bill will implement credit card reforms immediately upon enactment

Washington, DC – The House of Representatives today overwhelmingly approved legislation sponsored by Reps. Carolyn Maloney (D-NY) and Barney Frank (D-MA) that would push up the effective date of credit card reforms scheduled for next year to immediately upon the signing of the bill. Originally passed by Congress and signed into law by the President last spring, the Credit CARD Act had three staged implementation dates: August 2009, February, 2010, and August, 2010. H.R. 3639 moves up the remaining dates by which banks and credit card issuers would have to comply and applies to the largest card issuers that control over 80% of the credit card market. The bill passed by a vote of 331-92.

Rep. Carolyn Maloney said, “Card companies have redoubled many of the abusive practices that brought Congress to pass my original reforms last Spring. Rather than use the time-- time they asked for-- since the bill’s signing in May to prepare for the changes, they’ve raised rates and fees with absolutely no regard for the dire position of millions of their customers.

“I believe the card issuers have heard the message loud and clear today: their practices can no longer be tolerated. These reforms are crucial changes which level the playing field between card issuers and card holders. The reforms force the credit card market to actually function as markets should: by open competition among card offerings, with clear disclosure of interest rates, fees and other features. It bans rate hikes on existing balances, deceptive due-date gimmicks, and requires consumer opt-in to over-limit fees—and allows consumers enough time to switch cards if other terms and conditions change,” Maloney said.

“Consumers, especially in this economy, cannot wait any longer for these protections. I am extremely pleased that this legislation passed today,” said House Financial Services Committee member Rep. Dan Maffei (D-NY), who successfully offered an amendment today that will move the effective date of the bill to the date of enactment.

The House also approved an amendment, offered by Carolyn McCarthy (D-NY) and Betsy Markey (D-CO), permitting card issuers that adopt a moratorium on interest rate increases on current balances and new balances incurred before Feb. 22 to be exempt from the earlier effective date for a provision that requires an issuer to apply customer payments to the highest rate balance. Today’s bill also would exempt small credit card issuers that frequently outsource computer programming functions, and gift card providers, due to the fact that gift cards have already been printed and shipped for the 2009 holiday season. Both would have to comply with the later deadlines previously laid out in the Credit CARD Act.

The bill now goes to the Senate, where Sen. Mark Udall (D-CO) has introduced companion legislation (S. 1833) and Sen. Christopher Dodd (D-CT), Chair of the Senate Banking Committee, has introduced an immediate moratorium on retroactive rate increases (S. 1927).

The provisions which will take effect immediately upon enactment include:

·Prohibits arbitrary interest rate increases and universal default on existing balances;

·Prohibits issuers from charging over-limit fees unless the cardholder elects to allow the issuer to complete over-limit transactions, and also limits over-limit fees on electing cardholders;

·Requires payments in excess of the minimum to be applied first to the credit card balance with the highest rate of interest;

·Prohibits issuers from setting early morning deadlines for credit card payments;

·Prohibits interest charges on debt paid on time (double-cycle billing ban);

·Requires issuers extending credit to young consumers under the age of 21 to obtain an application that contains: the signature of a parent, guardian, or other individual 21 years or older who will take responsibility for the debt; or proof that the applicant has an independent means of repaying any credit extended;

·Requires penalty fees to be reasonable and proportional to the omission or violation.

·Requires that creditors periodically review all interest rate increases since January 2009 and reduce rates when a review indicates that a reduction is warranted.

These provisions already took effect last August 20th:

·Provide increased written notice to consumers of any increases in the interest rate or otherwise makes a significant change to the terms of a credit card account;

·Inform consumers of their right to cancel the card before the rate hike goes into effect;

·Send statements to consumers 21 days before the due date of any payments.

FSDWebUpdate

Sunday Morning Procrastination :)

2009-11-01T08:50:00.002-06:00

Here I sit, coffee to my left, jar of peanut butter to the left of that, complete with spoon, Sheryl Crowe on the Finetune player singing "If it makes you happy" can't get much better than that.

The roast is in the oven and there is a load of clothes in the washer and one in the dryer.

Then there is this...the four to six page paper due at midnight tonight expecting me to relate Bronfenbrenner's ecological systems theory to my decision to enter a master's program looming all around me, books stacked in every available space on the desk. I say "available space" because there is a cat in the window, one on the printer and one on the cpu all staring at me wondering what I am going to do. I can not wrap my head around that subject, much less four to six pages, and I can't find any research to give me any ideas. I guess it's not a very important subject for research...why any middle aged woman in her right mind would decide she needed a masters in mental health counseling.

It seems as though every assignment so far has been designed to make you drag your laundry out for all the world to see and analyze it...crap, I need a therapy session or six :)

Did I ever tell you I'm one of those who can't do anything unless she's under the pressure of a deadline? Don't worry about me...I'll be cranking it out ninety to nothing probably right up until 11:59 :)

Postcards from Amerah

2009-10-26T13:22:00.002-06:00

Please keep Amerah and her sister in your prayers. These are trying times for the both of them.

She sent this to me today and as always managed to give me a smile and a laugh despite it all...

"Joe gets up at 6 a.m. and fills his coffeepot with water to prepare his morning coffee. The water is clean and good because some tree-hugging liberal fought for minimum water-quality standards. With his first swallow of water, he takes his daily medication. His medications are safe to take because some stupid commie liberal fought to ensure their safety and that they work as advertised.

All but $10 of his medications are paid for by his employer’s medical plan because some liberal union workers fought their employers for paid medical insurance — now Joe gets it too.

He prepares his morning breakfast, bacon and eggs. Joe’s bacon is safe to eat because some girly-man liberal fought for laws to regulate the meat packing industry.

In the morning shower, Joe reaches for his shampoo. His bottle is properly labeled with each ingredient and its amount in the total contents because some crybaby liberal fought for his right to know what he was putting on his body and how much it contained.

Joe dresses, walks outside and takes a deep breath. The air he breathes is clean because some environmentalist wacko liberal fought for the laws to stop industries from polluting our air.

He walks on the government-provided sidewalk to subway station for his government-subsidized ride to work. It saves him considerable money in parking and transportation fees because some fancy-pants liberal fought for affordable public transportation, which gives everyone the opportunity to be a contributor.

Joe begins his work day. He has a good job with excellent pay, medical benefits, retirement, paid holidays and vacation because some lazy liberal union members fought and died for these working standards. Joe’s employer pays these standards because Joe’s employer doesn’t want his employees to call the union.

If Joe is hurt on the job or becomes unemployed, he’ll get a worker compensation or unemployment check because some stupid liberal didn’t think he should lose his home because of his temporary misfortune.

It is noontime and Joe needs to make a bank deposit so he can pay some bills. Joe’s deposit is federally insured by the FSLIC because some godless liberal wanted to protect Joe’s money from unscrupulous bankers who ruined the banking system before the Great Depression.

Joe has to pay his Fannie Mae-underwritten mortgage and his below-market federal student loan because some elitist liberal decided that Joe and the government would be better off if he was educated and earned more money over his lifetime. Joe also forgets that his in addition to his federally subsidized student loans, he attended a state funded university.

Joe is home from work. He plans to visit his father this evening at his farm home in the country. He gets in his car for the drive. His car is among the safest in the world because some America-hating liberal fought for car safety standards to go along with the tax-payer funded roads.

He arrives at his boyhood home. His was the third generation to live in the house financed by Farmers’ Home Administration because bankers didn’t want to make rural loans.

The house didn’t have electricity until some big-government liberal stuck his nose where it didn’t belong and demanded rural electrification.

He is happy to see his father, who is now retired. His father lives on Social Security and a union pension because some wine-drinking, cheese-eating liberal made sure he could take care of himself so Joe wouldn’t have to.

Joe gets back in his car for the ride home, and turns on a radio talk show. The radio host keeps saying that liberals are bad and conservatives are good. He doesn’t mention that the beloved Republicans have fought against every protection and benefit Joe enjoys throughout his day.

Joe agrees: “We don’t need those big-government liberals ruining our lives! After all, I’m a self-made man who believes everyone should take care of themselves, just like I have.”

Janann W. Ransom"

Take care of yourself woman, you know I'm prayin' for you and sister too.

Guest Post

2009-10-05T16:13:00.002-05:00

It seems as though I'm not going to post anything. Adrienne contacted me asking if she could write up a post for me to post on here. I wrote her back saying "as long as it pertains to social work' and this is what she wrote. I have to admit I wasn't sure if I would post it and even after reading it I still wasn't sure. Then I read it again. I think I will leave it up for awhile to come back to when I need to be reminded or when I'm having a bad day or I'm feeling particularly cynical. Thanks Adrienne, it's great to see social work from someone else's eyes every now and then.

What Social Work Involves

When you earn a degree in social work, you plan to help those who are less fortunate than you. You have visions about making a huge difference in people’s lives and of them being eternally grateful to you. But, a social worker’s life is nothing spectacular like the movies – you are not a hero or heroine who steals the show. Instead, you are the constant but steady presence in the lives of people who need help and are desperate for it. You may not make their life out of the ordinary, but you sure do much to make it bearable. So if you’re thinking of going in for social work, here’s what the career involves:

* Long hours, long lasting memories: Yes, you may have to work long hours, but the memories you form stay with you for life. Some may not be all that pleasant, but the success stories of people you have helped linger and come back to soothe you when things don’t seem to be going too well. The good times make you stick through the bad ones, no matter how tough things are.
* Grateful people, angry people: You’d be surprised at how grateful people are when you make a positive difference in their lives with your help and encouragement. But that’s only one end of the spectrum. On the other, you have those who take out their anger against the system on you – as far as they’re concerned, you’re the scapegoat who is to blame for all their troubles. So you must be prepared to deal with all kinds of people in the same frame of mind.
* Average salary, above average relationships: The pay’s not much, but the relationships you form with people are truly rich and rewarding. When you bond with your clients, especially when there are children involved, and help them get back on their feet and past their struggling days, you cement a lasting friendship that stands even though you are no longer a regular presence in their lives.
* A sense of satisfaction: And last and most important of all, when you help other people and feel that you are making a difference in their lives, you feel a sense of satisfaction, one that makes you feel good about yourself and what you are doing with your life. It is true that there is more joy in giving than in receiving, because when you give your time and effort to help people as a social worker, you feel yourself being filled with an inner peace and contentment that cannot be bought at any price.

By-line:

This guest article was written by Adrienne Carlson, who regularly writes on the topic of accelerated online degree . Adrienne welcomes your comments and questions at her email address: adrienne.carlson83@yahoo.com

Postcards from Amerah

2009-09-14T18:46:00.003-05:00

Being southern women and totally dumbfounded by the entire incident Amerah and I present to you another southern woman's letter to Joe Wilson...

"Joe Wilson, Member
United States Congress
212 Cannon House Office Building
Washington, D. C 20515-4002

903 Port Republic Street
Beaufort, South Carolina 29902

Mr. Wilson:

I am an 80 year old mother and my older child is 51 years old; but, if ever I were to hear him call anyone a liar or rudely and obstreperously tell someone they were telling a lie, I would slap his face.. My two children, 41 and 51 respectively, are very well reared as was I. I can remember as a little innocent child calling someone a liar.. I only did it one time because the lecture in the form of a lesson in proper decorum sank in, and to this day, I have never called anyone a liar. My mother considered this the ultimate in rudeness and disrespect, not only for the person I called a liar, but for me, myself.

Having learned that lesson at such an early age, it made me cringe when you, at age 62, and a former military man, yelled to the President of the United States of America, “You lie.” As a military man, you know the chain of command; and, you were addressing the Commander in Chief of the United States of America. Of course, President Obama who is a very refined gentleman did not respond and he kept right on target delivering the most brilliant speech I have ever heard. I can say this with a degree of authority because I have been witness to every presidency since Herbert Hoover. Never in the hallowed halls of Congress have I witnessed such coarse, gross, despicable behavior.

I don't know if your mother is alive or not, but if she is, I'm certain that she hung her head in shame knowing that all over the world you have disgraced her, yourself, your wife, your four sons, your office, your constituency and your country. Children of good breeding, who are properly reared carry the teachings of their parents throughout their lives. At 80 everything I do is tested against, “what would my mother think of that?” I would never defame her precious memory by demonstrating lack of self control and a knowledge of the social graces that separate women from ladies and men from gentlemen.

My mother was a proper Southern genteel lady who commanded respect because of the way she carried herself. I would think that your being from the South, you would have gotten some of that good ole Southern hospitality and gentility that seems to be characteristic of intelligent people of the South.

I do so hope you will listen to the foreign media as I did late last night. You are an international disgrace because from Ireland to China and England, your crudity was the main topic of conversation.

I note that you have a law degree. I wonder how proud your alma mater, University of South Carolina Law School, was of you tonight as you showed to the world that education without character is vacuous and meaningless. There is a popular expression of people with degrees who lack common sense, they are referred to as “educated fools.”

If you were playing to the media and to the camera for attention, you succeeded because your worldwide legacy will be that you were the ill-suited and ill-placed person who demeaned himself in the halls of Congress for the first time in U S history.

Written with embarrassment for my country,
Helen L. Burleson, Doctor of Public Administration

****Editor's Note:

Tell Congressman Joe Wilson what you think of his comments:

DC Address:

The Honorable Joe Wilson
United States House of Representatives
212 Cannon House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515-4002

DC Phone:

202-225-2452

DC Fax:

202-225-2455

Email Address:

http://www.house.gov/formwilson/IMA/issue.htm

WWW Homepage:

http://www.joewilson.house.gov/

District Offices:

903 Port Republic Street
Beaufort, SC 29902

Voice: 843-521-2530
FAX: 843-521-2535"

New? Blogs for You this Morning

2009-08-30T12:46:00.004-05:00

I'm pretty sure I've told you of Ornery Bastard before. Prepare yourself for profanities before going over there, but not only is he worth the read, the people leaving comments to his ravings are too. One of the worthiest is Elizabeth whose blog is The Middle of Nowhere. I particularly enjoyed her comments over at Ornery Bastard(kept me from having to comment). Her post titles alone make me want to go back over and over :) Have fun!

Rest in Peace Senator Kennedy

2009-08-26T07:39:00.004-05:00

Today, for those of us who are totally on the left side of the fence, is an almost crippling day, because last night we lost our greatest political power. I know brain tumors are more often than not, a lost cause, but somehow I believed he would come through it and not leave us. Here's the statement from his family:

"Edward M. Kennedy – the husband, father, grandfather, brother and uncle we loved so deeply – died late Tuesday night at home in Hyannis Port. We’ve lost the irreplaceable center of our family and joyous light in our lives, but the inspiration of his faith, optimism, and perseverance will live on in our hearts forever. We thank everyone who gave him care and support over this last year, and everyone who stood with him for so many years in his tireless march for progress toward justice, fairness and opportunity for all. He loved this country and devoted his life to serving it. He always believed that our best days were still ahead, but it’s hard to imagine any of them without him."

His obituary from the New York Times and a video chronicling his life are here and more here

Senator Kennedy's Senate page

tedkennedy.com

A 54 page pdf document of Senator Kennedy's many accomplishments

Postcards from Amerah--A Seniors' version of "Jesus Loves Me"

2009-08-24T18:50:00.003-05:00

"Senior version of Jesus Loves Me"

Here is a new version just for us who have white hair or no hair at all. For us over middle age (or even those almost there) and all you others, check out this newest version of Jesus Loves Me.

JESUS LOVES ME

Jesus loves me, this I know,
Though my hair is white as snow
Though my sight is growing dim,
Still He bids me trust in Him.
(CHORUS)
YES, JESUS LOVES ME.. YES, JESUS LOVES ME..
YES, JESUS LOVES ME, FOR THE BIBLE TELLS ME SO.

Though my steps are oh, so slow,
With my hand in His I'll go
On through life, let come what may,
He'll be there to lead the way.
(CHORUS)
YES, JESUS LOVES ME.. YES, JESUS LOVES ME..
YES, JESUS LOVES ME, FOR THE BIBLE TELLS ME SO.

When the nights are dark and long,
In my heart He puts a song..
Telling me in words so clear,
"Have no fear, for I am near."
(CHORUS)
YES, JESUS LOVES ME.. YES, JESUS LOVES ME..
YES, JESUS LOVES ME, FOR THE BIBLE TELLS ME SO.

When my work on earth is done,
And life's victories have been won.
He will take me home above,
Then I'll understand His love.
(CHORUS)

I love Jesus, does He know?
Have I ever told Him so?
Jesus loves to hear me say,
That I love Him every day.
(CHORUS)
YES, JESUS LOVES ME.. YES, JESUS LOVES ME..
YES, JESUS LOVES ME, FOR THE BIBLE TELLS ME SO.

Thanks, girl...you always come through just when i need it :)

U.S. Uninsured Workers--New Report from Cover the Uninsured

2009-08-17T10:11:00.004-05:00

Click the title link for everything you need to support your argument for the healthcare bill.

Postcard from Amerah--A Woman's Only Flaw :)

2009-08-05T19:52:00.002-05:00

One Flaw In Women

They fight for what they believe in.

They stand up to injustice.

They don't take "no" for an answer

when they believe there is a better solution.

They go without so their family can have.

They go to the doctor with a frightened friend.

They love unconditionally.

They cry when their children excel

and cheer when their friends get awards.

They are happy when they hear about

a birth or a wedding.

Their hearts break when a friend dies.

They grieve at the loss of a family member,

yet they are strong when they

think there is no strength left.

They know that a hug and a kiss

can heal a broken heart.

Women come in all shapes, sizes and colors.

They'll drive, fly, walk, run or e-mail you

to show how much they care about you.

The heart of a woman is what

makes the world keep turning.

They bring joy, hope and love.

They have compassion and ideas.

They give moral support to their

family and friends.

Women have vital things to say

and everything to give.

HOWEVER, IF THERE IS ONE FLAW IN WOMEN,

IT IS THAT THEY FORGET THEIR WORTH.

News from the Child Welfare League of America

2009-08-03T08:40:00.003-05:00

Today's email from the Child Welfare League of America

"House Finishes FY 2010 Appropriations On Deadline

Before leaving for the August break, the House of Representatives completed action on the last of the 12 appropriations bills when they approved the Defense appropriations. The Senate has one more week before they break until Labor Day and they are likely to approve all twelve bills out of committee and approve at least four bills by the full Senate. So far, Congress appears to be on track to complete action on appropriations by the start of the federal fiscal year on October 1.

The House approved H.R. 3293, the appropriations bill for the Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education (Labor-HHS), on Friday, July 24 by a vote of 264 to 153. The spending totals in the bill are close to what the Administration had requested. Overall, the bill spends $160 billion in discretionary dollars, an increase of $5.6 billion from this year's funding level. The bill also provides $567 billion in mandatory funding, most of which applies to HHS and represents mandatory funding for Medicare and Medicaid. Part of the mandatory funding is for entitlements under Title IV-E foster care, adoptions assistance, and subsidized guardianships. Title IV-E is expected to total $7.2 billion, an increase of $146 million from 2009. According to budget projections, $4.6 billion will be spent on foster care including administrative costs, $2.4 billion will be spent on adoption assistance along with administration costs, and $49 million will be spent on the new subsidized guardianship program (kinship care). Adoption assistance is the fastest growing of the three, and the guardianship program is still in its start-up phase. All the cost projections for the Title IV-E programs are just projections since claims could increase or decrease according to need and the number of eligible children.

The House Labor-HHS bill also funds Head Start at $7.2 billion, an increase of $120 million, while child care remains at the 2009 level of $2.1 billion in discretionary funding. Child care receives an allocation of $2.9 billion in mandatory funds for a total of slightly more than $5 billion. Both Head Start and child care received $2 billion each as part of the stimulus package enacted earlier this year, and that is not included in these totals.

The Senate was also moving on the Labor-HHS bill with the full Appropriations Committee voting out its bill by the end of last week. There will be some differences in spending levels and priorities when the Senate completes action on their bill and writes the final committee report.

Health Reform to Wait Until After Recess

As Congress begins to leave for its month-long August recess, it became clear last week that neither the full Senate nor the full House will vote on comprehensive health reform legislation before returning in September. Lawmakers do not seem particularly rattled by the slipping timeline, and vow to continue significant work and movement on health reform in the fall.

The House bill that was produced by the three committees with jurisdiction over health reform, the America's Affordable Health Choices Act (H.R. 3200), was introduced on July 14 and has since been voted out by the Ways and Means Committee and the Education and Labor Committee. H.R. 3200 would place shared responsibility on individuals, employers, and the government to ensure that the vast majority of Americans have health coverage. Exceptions to the requirement would be available for individuals facing hardship and the smallest businesses, with other small businesses able to get a tax credit. Effective in 2013, Medicaid would be expanded by the House bill to cover all individuals falling below 133% of the federal poverty level ($14,400 for an individual). To cover more of the uninsured and provide choice, an insurance exchange would be created whereby individuals and small businesses could purchase coverage, with the option to buy a public plan. Certain benefits would be mandatory--including preventive services, rehabilitative and habilitative services, mental health and substance abuse services--and, for children, vision, hearing, and oral health services.

The third committee to approve the House bill, the Energy and Commerce Committee, postponed markup for the majority of last week to hold behind the scenes meetings between committee leadership and members of the fiscally conservative Blue Dog Coalition. A deal was reached Wednesday afternoon and the committee resumed consideration of H.R. 3200. The deal slashes the total price tag of the bill by decreasing subsidies to low-income families and exempting additional small businesses from the employer mandate to provide coverage, among other changes. During markup, Representative Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) offered an amendment that was accepted on therapeutic foster care (see article below).

Meanwhile, a bipartisan group of six senators from the Finance Committee continued discussions to finalize the committee's health reform package. The committee was leaning towards not including a public option, as both the Senate HELP and House tri-committee reform bills have. Also different is that the Senate Finance reform plan will not include an employer mandate in the form of penalties, but rather will offer incentives for employers to provide coverage to their employees. The Finance Committee negotiators had not yet come to consensus on how to finance its package, but a possibility gaining traction is to tax high-end insurance policies totaling over $25,000. Late last week, the Finance Committee received a preliminary score from the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) indicating that their plan would cover nearly 95% of Americans at a cost of less than $900 billion over 10 years, all of which is fully offset.

The Finance Committee reform package, once voted out of committee, will have to be merged with the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee bill, which the HELP Committee passed on July 15. Lawmakers are hoping that this reconciliation would be possible over the August recess.

Therapeutic Foster Care Amendment Added to House Health Reform Bill

On Thursday, July 30, when the House Energy and Commerce Committee resumed markup of its health reform legislation, H.R. 3200, Representative Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) offered an amendment that was accepted by voice vote on therapeutic foster care. Therapeutic Foster Care (TFC) provides intensive, individualized services in a community-based environment for children with severe mental and behavioral health needs. It is an evidence-informed placement that has produced positive outcomes including improved social skills and psychological adjustment, reduced behavioral problems, and placement stability. The U.S. Surgeon General's 1999 report on mental health recommended TFC as a promising, effective intervention for children with serious emotional disorders.

Baldwin's amendment provides a basic definition of TFC and protects reimbursement for TFC by stating that nothing in the Medicaid statute prohibits Medicaid for paying for the treatment contained in TFC. CWLA worked in strong partnership with organizations such as the Foster Family-based Treatment Association, the Alliance for Children & Families, the Bazelon Center for Mental Health Law, and the National Council for Community Behavioral Healthcare and thanks Baldwin for her strong support of vulnerable children and youth and TFC programs.

Rhode Island Approved for Kinship-Guardianship Option, More Pending

The Children's Bureau has approved Rhode Island's amended state plan that will allow that state to utilize Title IV-E funds for the new kinship-guardianship option as provided for through last year's Fostering Connections Act (P.L. 110-351). Seven other plan amendments have been submitted. In addition to Rhode Island, the others that have submitted a plan amendment are the District of Columbia and the states of Connecticut, Maine, Missouri, Oregon, Pennsylvania, and Tennessee. Connecticut is the most recent plan amendment submitted. More states are expected to take the option.

The kinship-guardianship option became effective shortly after Fostering Connections was signed last October, but there is no timeframe or deadline for states to take the option. While some were expecting states to act more quickly, it has been less than one year since enactment of Fostering Connections, and that enactment coincided with the recession. Factors that may inhibit states include some states requiring legislative changes, other states contemplating dramatic cuts in human service funding, and other states awaiting greater instruction and clarification from HHS on issues such as whether or not children already in kinship placements and otherwise eligible being covered once a state has taken the option or whether coverage extends only to new kinship arrangements established after a state plan has been amended.

A state has to first submit an amended plan and then it must be approved. There are a number of actions states must take to use Title IV-E funds for the kinship placements including: outlining how they will assure the child and the relative's eligibility, meeting new case plan requirements, and meeting background check requirements. There are also major budget considerations for states depending on how they currently fund kinship care or if they even have a kinship placement option in place.

The official calculation by the CBO anticipated savings from the kinship care option due to expected shifts in reduced administrative costs. Such results may vary by state circumstance. Some states have used all federal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) funds to pay for kinship placements. In those instances, since TANF is an entitlement of federal funds that a state receives annually at the same fixed level, a state may have to spend state general fund dollars to match the new kinship option. Kinship care is an important permanency option and the goal of advocacy groups including CWLA is that eventually all 50 states will take the Title IV-E kinship-guardianship option.

Webinar Explores Fostering Connections Act's Impact on Older Youth

The National Foster Care Coalition, in conjunction with the National Court-Appointed State Advocate Association, is hosting a webinar on the Fostering Connections Act provisions impacting older youth. This is a free, one-hour webinar review of the provisions for older youth, and an opportunity to discuss strategies to support and effectively advocate for older youth. Much of the discussion will be based on a new report on the frequently asked questions on these provisions, available through the link below.

The webinar will be held on August 5 at noon Eastern (11 am Central, 10 am Mountain, 9 am Pacific) and will be held again on August 19 at 4 pm Eastern (3 pm Central, 2 pm Mountain, 1 pm Pacific).

Register for the August 5 session.

Register for the August 19 session.

Download the FAQ Report.

Study Reaffirms Mental Health Needs for Transitioning Youth

A study funded by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services that will be published in Children and Youth Services Review found that 45% of youth with prior involvement with the child welfare system had at least one mental health problem as they transitioned to adulthood. The study sampled over 5,000 children from 92 child welfare agencies across the country. More than a quarter of the youth were in the clinical range for depression.

The study also examined the youths' surrounding life circumstances, finding that at least 60% lived in households at or below the national poverty line and over a quarter were living with at least one child. The study's authors call for researchers, policymakers, clinicians, and service system administrators to acknowledge these extreme needs and work better with this vulnerable population.

One piece of legislation that Congress is working on to address this is the Healthy Transition Act, H.R. 2691. The bipartisan bill, reintroduced by Representatives Pete Stark (D-CA), Mary Bono Mack (R-CA), and Dave Camp (R-MI), was first introduced in the 110th Congress in conjunction with a Government Accountability Office report finding that in 2006, at least 2.4 million young adults aged 18 to 26 experienced a serious mental illness.

To help this population access needed services and make a successful transition to adulthood, the bill would provide planning and implementation grants to states to develop statewide coordination plans to help adolescents and young adults with serious mental illness. States would be urged to target specific populations, including but not limited to those involved with the child protection and juvenile justice systems. The legislation would establish a federal committee to coordinate service programs helping young adults with mental illness, and provide technical assistance to states. A Senate companion bill has not yet been reintroduced. CWLA strongly supports this legislation, along with our friends at the Bazelon Center for Mental Health Law, the American Psychological Association, First Focus, and Mental Health America.

CWLA Continues Survey on Prevention

Last fall, CWLA posted a brief poll on our website asking what the White House Conference on Children and Youth should focus on. In the poll, individuals were asked to select three top issues. Prevention of child abuse and neglect was ranked by 16% of respondents as the number one priority--coming in ahead of other critical areas such as strengthening child protective services (14%) and youth transitioning out of foster care (11%). As a result and to continue the process, CWLA is going to use these survey findings to gather more information on each of the critical issues. We are asking you to take a new three-minute survey focused on prevention. Take the prevention survey and tell us what prevention services exist in your community. Are there waiting lists? How would you describe prevention?

Key Upcoming Dates for Congress

August 1-September 7: House summer break
August 8-September 7: Senate summer break
October 15: Deadline for budget reconciliation instruction"

Making the stimulus funds work...Go Tennessee!!!

2009-07-30T10:24:00.002-05:00

Picture of the week

2009-07-27T07:08:00.003-05:00

Courtesy of the Mudflats blog:

Postcards from Amerah

2009-07-20T19:51:00.000-05:00

THE TEACHER APPLICANT
After being interviewed by the school administration, the teaching prospect said,
"Let me see if I've got this right, You want me to go into that room with all those kids,

1. correct their disruptive behavior,
2. observe them for signs of abuse,
3. monitor their dress habits,
4. censor their T-shirt messages,
5. and instill in them a love for learning.

You want me to..

6. check their backpacks for weapons,
7. wage war on drugs and sexually transmitted diseases, and
8. raise their sense of self esteem and personal pride.

You want me to.....

9. teach them patriotism and good citizenship, sportsmanship and fair play, and
10. how to register to vote,
11. balance a checkbook, and
12. apply for a job.

You want me to

13. check their heads for lice,
14. recognize signs of anti-social behavior, and
15. make sure that they all pass the state exams.

You also want me to

16. provide them with an equal education regardless of their handicaps, and
17. communicate regularly with their parents in English and Spanish by letter, telephone, conferences, email, homework hotline, web page, midterm newsletters, and report card.

You want me to do all this with a piece of chalk, a blackboard, a bulletin board, a few books, a big smile, and a starting salary that qualifies me for food stamps.

You want me to do all this and then you tell me. . ."I CAN'T PRAY!!!!!"

Got one for ya...

2009-07-13T20:50:00.003-05:00

Denny Bush "No Stranger to the Hard Times" He's the father of one of my newfound Facebook friends :)

Thanks, Denny, I needed that today!

Pure Poetry...

2009-07-12T09:40:00.003-05:00

I have to share this post with you. If you are a social worker then you will get why...

One Little Polish Girl's post from June 30, 2009

"Last Friday, we all spent the day painting the walls of the building I work in. Today we are rearranging the cubicles and there is much crashing, pounding and bashing going on. Everyone was dreading this day because of the interruption it would cause to their work and because they were afraid they would lose precious space. Turns out, they are gaining space and some privacy so the overall atmosphere in here today is cheery!

I've told you before that I work for a small not for profit social service agency. We are a rag tag bunch to be sure. At first sight, we don't look like your average social work types and, more often than not, people mistake that for a lack of professionalism. The bottom line is that here at KHDS we believe, first and foremost, in the people we serve. We work with alcoholics, mentally ill, developmentally disabled, drug addicted, homeless, unemployed, uninsured people. They don't always look clean or smell good or speak clearly and, sometimes, they are beliggerant and ornery. They hang out outside our building, come in and mess up our rest rooms and, once in a while, walk out with someone's purse or jacket. Other agencies put limits on the amount of time their clients can be in their buildings or when they can show up at all. Other agencies have nice carpeting and furniture and real plants in their lobbies bathed in track lighting. We have a fake ficus on a used end table. We believe that any funds we recieve is best used in programs that help those we serve and not in the interior design of our building. We also believe that if you are wearing a suit it's likely you haven't done much hands on social work in a while.

That's why this recent coat of paint and the moving about of some cublicle walls has been so invigorating. The physical participation in doing it has brought us closer together as a team and the actual visualization of our handy work made us proud.

At the end of the day, we may not look like much but we'll charm you with our personable natures and wow you with our skill. We're here to help and that's not just a saying. We really do. So don't mind that there is a tear in the seat of the chair you may sit on...it doesn't matter. What matters are the people who come through our door each day who leave just a little healthier, a little calmer, a little less lonely and a whole lot more confident that they really do have a purpose."

I so want to work at her agency :)

Postcards from Amerah...LMAO!

2009-07-11T22:11:00.001-05:00

Southern women appreciate their natural assets:

Clean skin.
A winning smile.
That unforgettable Southern drawl.

Southern women know their manners:
"Yes, ma'am."
"Yes, sir."
"Why, no, Billy!"

Southern women have a distinct way with fond expressions :
"Y'all come back!"
"Well, bless your heart."
"Drop by when you can."
"How's your Momma?"

Southern women know their summer weather report: Humidity
Humidity
Humidity

Southern women know their vacation spots:
The beach
The rivuh
The crick

Southern women know the joys of June, July, and August:
Colorful hi-heel sandals
Strapless sun dresses
Iced sweet tea with mint

Southern women know everybody's first name: Honey
Darlin'
Shugah

Southern women know the movies that speak to their hearts:
Fried Green Tomatoes
Driving Miss Daisy
Steel Magnolias !
Gone With The Wind

Southern women know their religions:
Baptist
Methodist
Football

Southern women know their country breakfasts:
Red-eye gravy
Grits
Eggs
Country ham
Mouth-watering homemade biscuits with momma's homemade jelly

Southern women know their cities dripping with Southern charm:
Chawlston
S'vanah
Foat Wuth
N'awlins
Addlanna

Southern women know their elegant gentlemen:
Men in uniform.
Men in tuxedos
Rhett Butler

Southern girls know their prime real estate:
The Mall
The Country Club
The Beauty Salon

Southern girls know the three deadly sins: Having bad Hair and nails
Having bad manners
Cooking bad food

Only a Southerner knows the difference between a hissie fit and a conniption fit , and that you don't "HAVE" them, you "PITCH" them.
_____

Only a Southerner knows how many fish, collard greens, turnip greens, peas, beans, etc., make up "a mess."
_____

Only a Southerner can show or point out to you the general direction of "yonder."
_____

Only a Southerner knows exactly how long "directly" is, . as in: "Going to town, be back directly."
_____

Even Southern babies know that "Gimme some sugar" is not a request for the white, granular sweet substance that sits in a pretty little bowl in the middle of the table.
_____

All Southerners know exactly when "by and by" is. They might not use the term, but they know the concept well.
_____

Only a Southerner knows instinctively that the best gesture of solace for a neighbor who's got trouble is a plate of hot fried chicken and a big bowl of cold potato salad.. If the neighbor's trouble is a real crisis, they also know to add a large banana puddin!
_____

Only Southerners grow up knowing the difference between "right near" and "a right far piece." They also know that "just down the road" can be 1 mile or 20.
_____

Only a Southerner, both knows and understands, the difference between a redneck, a good ol' boy, and po' white trash.
_____

No true Southerner would ever assume that the car with the flashing turn signal is actually going to make a turn.
_____

A Southerner knows that "fixin" can be used as a noun, a verb , or an adverb.
_____

Only Southerners make friends while standing in lines, ... and when we're "in line," we talk to everybody!
_____

Put 100 Southerners in a room and half of them will discover they're related, even if only by marriage.
_____

In the South, y'all is singular, all y'all is plural.
_____

Southerners know grits come from corn and how to eat them.
_____

Every Southerner knows tomatoes with eggs, bacon, grits, and coffee are perfectly wonderful; that red eye gravy is also a breakfast food; and that fried green tomatoes are not a breakfast food.
_____

When you hear someone say, "Well, I caught myself lookin'," you know you are in the presence of a genuine Southerner!
_____

Only true Southerners say "sweet tea" and "sweet milk." Sweet tea indicates the need for sugar and lots of it -- we do not like our tea unsweetened. "Sweet milk" means you don't want buttermilk.
_____

And a true Southerner knows you don't scream obscenities at little old ladies who drive 30 MPH on the freeway. You just say ,"Bless her heart" ... and go your own way.
_____

To those of you who are still a little embarrassed by your Southerness: Take two tent revivals and a dose of sausage gravy and call me in the morning. Bless your heart!
_____

And to those of you who are still having a hard time understanding all this Southern stuff, ... bless your hearts, I hear they are fixin' to have classes on Southernness as a second language!
_____

And for those that are not from the South but have lived here for a long time, all y'all need a sign to hang on y'alls front porch that reads "I ain't from the South, but I got here as fast as I could."

Now...... Shugah, send this to someone! who was raised in the South or wish they had been! If you're a Northern transplant, Bless your little heart, fake it. We know you got here as fast as you could

Hey, It's Me, Prin :)

2009-07-10T09:26:00.003-05:00

I bet you forgot about me, didn't you? You thought I fell off the edge of the world or something, didn't you? Nope, just basically slackin'. Sometimes you just need to do that to regenerate.

The move, while as traumatic as any move after 11 years, went about as smooth as a move can go. We are in our new "entire" house. Except for the few years we had grandma's house, this is the first time we have had something other than an apartment complex type apartment or a duplex. We took pictures and as soon as we get them developed I'll post them. There are three bedrooms, so we each have one and there is one left for an office, yay! For the first time in 11 years I have bookshelves! Granted, they are boards and blocks, but I kind of like the way they turned out. The best thing about them is that there are no more floor to ceiling boxes with books all over the place. It sure doesn't look like I have that many, but then I did donate about half of them. For the first time the walls are not all stark white, in fact I don't think there is one white wall in the entire place. There are actually a few that are pale yellow, which I love! Remember I told you about our galley kitchen in the old house? The one that only one person could be in at a time. Our new kitchen is HUGE! It even has a bar in the middle of it! When I first saw the house all I could see was "potential" and that's the best part. The owner also said when we get ready he would sell it to us for just what he has in it. Awesome! k, that's enough about us. On to the email I got this morning that spurred me to write.

It has been so long since I lived in an all white community I sometimes forget that they still exist. I know they do, but I just prefer not to dwell on it or venture into them. I got this from The Color of Change this morning and for once it didn't happen in the south, hallelujah!

View more news videos at: http://www.nbcphiladelphia.com/video.

"Two weeks ago outside Philadelphia, 65 children from a summer camp tried to go swimming at a club that their camp had a contract to use. Apparently, the people at the club didn't know that the group of kids was predominantly Black.

When the campers entered the pool, White parents allegedly took their kids out of the water, and the swimming club's staff asked the campers to leave. The next day, the club told the summer camp that their membership would be canceled and that their payment would be refunded. When asked why, the club's manager said that a lot of kids "would change the complexion ... and the atmosphere of the club."1

A "Whites only" pool in 2009 should not be tolerated. The club's actions appear to be a violation of section 1981 of the Civil Rights Act.2 Whether or not any laws were violated, a "Whites only" pool should be something every American condemns.

Please join us in doing exactly that, and please email your friends and family and invite them to do the same. Your signature will also be used to call on the Department of Justice to evaluate suing the facility under federal law. It takes just a moment to do both, here:

http://www.colorofchange.org/swim/?id=2051-628943

Obama is President but that doesn't mean that suddenly all is fine when it comes to race in America. This is a vivid reminder of what we know still lies beneath the surface.

We all know stories like this one -- similar incidents play out quietly every day in different communities across the country. The difference in this case is that folks got caught and there was a contract in place that makes for a potentially illegal act.

Standing up now isn't just about making things right for these kids in Philadelphia or bringing consequences to this swim club (called the Valley Swim Club). It's about creating a climate of accountability everywhere. If we can publicly shame the Valley Swim Club and hold them accountable for this incident, it will make others think twice before engaging in what appears to be blatant discrimination.

Please join us in condemning the Valley Swim Club's behavior and calling on the Justice Department to investigate whether they violated civil rights laws. And please ask your friends and family to do the same.

http://www.colorofchange.org/swim/?id=2051-628943

Thanks and Peace,

-- James, Gabriel, William, Dani and the rest of the ColorOfChange.org team
July 10th, 2009"

Thank God for Girard College who stepped in and offered them the use of their pool.

""We had to help," said Girard College director of Admissions Tamara Leclair. "Every child deserves an incredible summer camp experience."

The school already serves 500 campers of its own, but felt they could squeeze in 65 more -- especially since the pool is vacant on the day the Creative Steps had originally planned to swim at Valley Swim Club."

Oh, and here's Valley Swim Clubs CYA statement:

"The club issued this statement late Thursday, responding to the allegations of racism:

The Valley Club is deeply troubled by the recent allegations of racism, which are completely untrue.

We had originally agreed to invite the camps to use our facility, knowing full well that the children from the camps were from multi-ethnic backgrounds. Unfortunately, we quickly learned that we underestimated the capacity of our facilities and realized that we could not accommodate the number of children from these camps. All funds were returned to the camps and we will re-evaluate the issue at a later date to determine whether it can be feasible in the future.

Our Valley Club deplores discrimination in any form, as is evidenced by our multi-ethnic and diverse membership. Whatever comments may or may not have been made by an individual member is an opinion not shared by The Valley Club Board.

Daniel Veres, a 16-year old Hispanic teen who is also a member, says the entire situation is just a misunderstanding. "We're not judgmental, we're just friendly," Veres said of the mostly white club."

I'll let you chew on that for a bit while I move on to other things...

The Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention has a new report out. "The report describes the unique and crucial role played by defense attorneys in juvenile court proceedings in providing comprehensive legal representation to children charged with offenses." You can access the full report here It's well worth the read.

If you want a great lesson on just how this health-care reform is going to work, read this. Don't just skim it, if you want the lesson :)

Get your free clean energy sticker here from MoveOn.org, the one's that brought you the great Obama sticker last year.

And lastly, for now, you know you need a good belly laugh. Mudflats blog is always good for that. I suggest you put them in your reader, especially now that Palin has resigned. Here's just one recent post:

First Term Quitters Hall of Fame
from The Mudflats by akmuckraker

A number crunching Mudflatter sent the following:

On a hunch, I reviewed online lists of all the men and women who’ve been elected governor of their state since the year 1900. Pored over them for a few hours. Over 1200 politicians have taken that first-term oath of office. Some soon died in office. Many resigned to accept other positions in government, including Spiro Agnew who was “tapped” by Nixon after being the Governor of Maryland for about five minutes. On a handful of occasions, a first-termer was dragged off to the slammer or impeached. One was incapacitated by a nervous breakdown and one left just as impeachment came knocking on his door. So—how many out of over 1200 just up and quit before the end of their term?

Three: Jim McGreevy, Eliot Spitzer and Sarah Palin.

[h/t Mudflatter WalterNeff]"

Some other great titles from Mudflats blog:

GOP Candidates Tell Palin ‘Talk to the Hand!

Palin’s Milllllions of Dollars!

Palin Wonders Why Sudden Resignation is Such a “Darn Big Deal?”

Threatened by Palin, a Blogger Speaks Out. Shannyn Moore, Meet the Press.

**Disclaimer** I did not proofread this 20 times like I usually do, so If a link is not working let me know and I will fix it later. Thanks

Sonya Sotomayer Awesome!

2009-05-27T06:29:00.000-05:00

Finally something to get me off Facebook :) I thought you might not know much about President Obama's newest Supreme Court nominee, so I thought I would enlighten you with the emails I received overnight.

From MoveOn:

"Ten Things About Judge Sonia Sotomayor

1. Judge Sotomayor would bring more federal judicial experience to the bench than any Supreme Court justice in 100 years. Over her three-decade career, she has served in a wide variety of legal roles, including as a prosecutor, litigator, and judge.

2. Judge Sotomayor is a trailblazer. She was the first Latina to serve on the Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit and was the youngest member of the court when appointed to the District Court for the Southern District of New York. If confirmed, she will be the first Hispanic to sit on the U.S. Supreme Court.

3. While on the bench, Judge Sotomayor has consistently protected the rights of working Americans, ruling in favor of health benefits and fair wages for workers in several cases.

4. Judge Sotomayor has shown strong support for First Amendment rights, including in cases of religious expression and the rights to assembly and free speech.

5. Judge Sotomayor has a strong record on civil rights cases, ruling for plaintiffs who had been discriminated against based on disability, sex and race.

6. Judge Sotomayor embodies the American dream. Born to Puerto Rican parents, she grew up in a South Bronx housing project and was raised from age nine by a single mother, excelling in school and working her way to graduate summa cum laude from Princeton University and to become an editor of the Law Journal at Yale Law School.

7. In 1995, Judge Sotomayor "saved baseball" when she stopped the owners from illegally changing their bargaining agreement with the players, thereby ending the longest professional sports walk-out in history.

8. Judge Sotomayor ruled in favor of the environment in a case of protecting aquatic life in the vicinity of power plants in 2007, a decision that was overturned by the Roberts Supreme Court.

9. In 1992, Judge Sotomayor was confirmed by the Senate without opposition after being appointed to the bench by George H.W. Bush.

10. Judge Sotomayor is a widely respected legal figure, having been described as "...an outstanding colleague with a keen legal mind," "highly qualified for any position in which wisdom, intelligence, collegiality and good character would be assets," and "a role model of aspiration, discipline, commitment, intellectual prowess and integrity."

Judge Sotomayor is an historic, uniquely qualified nominee to the Supreme Court. Let's get the word out and make sure we get a prompt, fair confirmation on her nomination."

From AlterNet

Sonia Sotomayor's Background Will Affect Her Judicial Decisions -- and That's a Good Thing

From Emily's List

"Not only did President Obama nominate a candidate with more federal judicial experience than any Supreme Court justice in 100 years, but he also chose a nominee with an astute understanding of the law's effects on Americans' lives. Judge Sotomayor was raised by her mother in housing projects of the Bronx; her American story and extensive legal career make her an exceptional candidate for the top court. She graduated summa cum laude from Princeton and was editor of the Yale Law Review. In 1997, Judge Sotomayor was nominated by President Clinton to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit, where she currently serves.

Her compelling story and unique perspective will help ensure that women's rights are protected and that women's experiences are brought to bear in the highest court in the land. If confirmed by the Senate, Judge Sotomayor would make history as the first Hispanic, as well as the third woman, ever to sit on the court."

See a video of the White House press briefing from CNN here

For a comprehensive biography from the Associated Press go here

An Awesome Filly named Rachel Alexandra and President Obama's Speech at Notre Dame

2009-05-18T06:20:00.007-05:00

Full rundown of the race here

Full text of President Obama's speech here

Hilarious and yet, oh so painful to watch...

2009-05-17T08:00:00.008-05:00

I found this over on Markham's Behavioral Health this morning. I have tears streaming down my face as I type this. It reminds me so much of the time the boy was about that age and we had been out all morning trying to get some assistance for the rent or something. We had gotten on the bus before breakfast so we could make the appointment on time and it was about noon. As we were leaving the place, having been turned down for assistance, we happened to pass a store that had sodas prominently displayed and the boy decided he had to have one. I thought I had enough money to get us back home because the boy was at the age where some bus drivers would still let him ride free and some made me pay for him, so I really didn't know. We were in "Buckhead" the pissy part of Atlanta and he was throwing an ungodly three year old fit, bucking, screaming, running back towards the store, crying for that damn soda. There were two "Buckhead" pissy women watching us...not offering to help, just watching and judging. So, naturally I couldn't knock the hell out of him :) and drag him off kicking and screaming to the bus. So I did the next best thing...I walked away from him, not far enough that he couldn't see me or I couldn't see him, just far enough so I could regain my composure and could not reach him to knock the hell out of him. What does he do when I let go of him? Naturally, he makes a beeline back to the store. By that time I had decided the bus driver was just going to have to understand because I knew the boy was really hungry and that's what was making him act that way, so I bought him the soda and we went on our merry way. The boy was happy and calm and I was rational once again. By the time we got to the bus stop we were our normal selves and were laughing and having a grand ole time while we waited for the bus, the incident all but forgotten. The boy had completely converted from the devil's spawn in action to the complete angel that he normally was. The story doesn't end there. I noticed about that time a cop pulled up behind us and just sat there with his window rolled down. It never occurred to me that he was there...for...me. I guess, given the situation and where it took place it should have but, I learned a long time ago that it is best to just ignore cops, unless you need one. I clearly didn't, by then :) After a couple of minutes of observing and listening the cop said "Could I speak with you?" Oh, Lord, my...heart...sank. I just knew I was going to jail for child abuse or something. He turned out to be the nicest cop I have ever met. He explained to me what I had been accused of and I told him our entire story...all of it :) He ended up giving me $20 and his personal phone number and telling me that he could tell just by observing that I was a good mother having a bad day and that if I ever needed his help to call him. I still have his number to this day. He even gave us a ride home. While I was relieved I didn't go to jail, the boy had to understand on that day, the consequences of his actions and what could have happened because of his fit. I called his Uncle Joe (6'4, ominous and a teacher to boot) and told him what had happened and he came over after work, had a serious talk with him and gave him a few good hard whacks on the behind. The boy never again threw a fit like that in public...during adolescence he threw plenty inside the house, but that's another story, so I guess it all worked out. I don't know what it is about 2, 3 and 4 year old fits that makes parents lose all reasoning, training, control and parenting abilities but they sure do, so I can completely empathize with this guy...and yes, giggle, um, laugh out loud too...

Rest in Peace, Frank...

2009-05-13T06:22:00.008-05:00

Some of you know we lost our mayor this past week. He was the best mayor this town has ever had. He was a man of dignity, ethical principle and genuinely wanted the best for our town. I wish I could find the link to the program WLBT did on him last night. It was awesome. It was said in that program that Frank was really a social worker in disguise as a politician. I remember thinking that very same thing not long ago. I've included a video of him in order that you might share in his awesomeness. I can't get but one video to post so click the title link for a list of all the available videos.

Women's Media Center Training

2009-05-11T18:49:00.003-05:00

I sure wish someone I know would go do this and come back and train me :) Click the title link to be taken to the application page.

"The Progressive Women’s Voices program has become a cornerstone of The Women’s Media Center. In our first year of the program, we intensively media trained 33 women who have gone on to earn over 1000 media hits year to date. Our inaugural class was a stellar group, with experts in foreign policy, reproductive rights, environmental issues, racial justice, voting rights, the history of feminism, immigrant communities, outsider cultures, national security, and many more areas of expertise. With our training and help, in 2008, our PWV women wrote Op Eds in the Washington Post and The New York Times, features for Elle and New York magazine, were quoted in USA Today, Forbes, Variety, Mother Jones, the Wall Street Journal, Slate, Salon, The New Republic, the Los Angeles Times, on the Associated Press and Reuters wires, appeared on Good Morning America, CNN, MSNBC, CBS Nightly News, Fox News, ABC News, CNBC, The Tyra Banks Show, PBS’s “To The Contrary,” Bill Moyers, on numerous NPR shows, and in hundreds of other significant media outlets.

We are “changing the conversation” by making sure that there are plenty of qualified, authoritative, progressive women experts available to editors, reporters, producers, and bookers. For the women chosen to participate in our 2009 Progressive Women’s Voices program, we provide intense media training sessions in New York, with weekly calls, and continued support and resources for media bookings.

This program was made possible through primary support from the NoVo Foundation, and additional funding from the Better World Fund of the United Nations Foundation, the University of Phoenix, the Charles Lawrence Keith and Clara Miller Foundation, the Friedman/Kiehl Fund and private donors.

Progressive Women’s Voices starts with training.

* In-person intensive training: The Women’s Media Center hosts all participants for three weekends of intensive training in New York City, and pays all travel and acommodation expenses for participants. This training includes message development, media techniques, rapid response, on-camera training for television, radio training, op ed writing, blogging and more
* Weekly interview practice: All PWV women participate in weekly simulated hostile radio show interview scenarios on conference call lines to practice interview techniques and get feedback from classmates. We have received extensive feedback that this preparation is extremely helpful in prepping for media that is not ideologically identical to your own
* A strong network of progressive women: Our participant listserv and Facebook group facilitates ongoing dialogue, allowing participants to share their successes and challenges. We have also seen our classes of women hire, promote, and generally help and support each other, personally and professionally.
* Web platform: The WMC invites many of our PWV women to participate in writing our WMC Exclusives and Commentaries and promotes those through our online contacts and media contacts. All participants also have an opportunity to blog for the WMC.
* Ongoing WMC strategy and support: The WMC helps each participant to prep for interviews and media opportunities, providing message feedback, editing, and technical support.
* Promotion and Pitching: From January through December of 2009, the WMC will be dedicating its staff to outreach on behalf of PWV participants to our contacts at all levels of the media, promoting the Progressive Women’s Voices participants as a polished source of expert commentary.

This is not just a training program – it is a stepping stone to changing the conversation and the view of the world as presented in the media.

The Women's Media Center is looking for talented, opinionated, progressive women who are willing to speak out about the issues that matter. Whether your expertise is war or peace, health care or technology, chances are you watch the news, and realize that progressive women’s voices, like yours, are missing.

The WMC will host three classes of Progressive Women’s Voices women for 2009. Each class will have about ten women from around the country. Travel and accomodation expenses are paid for three weekend trips to New York City to be trained by the WMC staff and consultants."

Sam Carr's up on the Blue's Page

2009-05-11T10:27:00.001-05:00

Julia Ward Howe's Mother's Day Proclamation - 1870

2009-05-10T03:42:00.000-05:00

Celebrate Mother's Day as it was originally intended...took this from CodePink's website. Click the title link to go there.

"Arise then...women of this day!
Arise, all women who have hearts!
Whether your baptism be of water or of tears!
Say firmly:
"We will not have questions answered by irrelevant agencies,
Our husbands will not come to us, reeking with carnage,
For caresses and applause.
Our sons shall not be taken from us to unlearn
All that we have been able to teach them of charity, mercy and patience.
We, the women of one country,
Will be too tender of those of another country
To allow our sons to be trained to injure theirs."

From the bosom of a devastated Earth a voice goes up with
Our own. It says: "Disarm! Disarm!
The sword of murder is not the balance of justice."
Blood does not wipe out dishonor,
Nor violence indicate possession.
As men have often forsaken the plough and the anvil
At the summons of war,
Let women now leave all that may be left of home
For a great and earnest day of counsel.
Let them meet first, as women, to bewail and commemorate the dead.
Let them solemnly take counsel with each other as to the means
Whereby the great human family can live in peace...
Each bearing after his own time the sacred impress, not of Caesar,
But of God -
In the name of womanhood and humanity, I earnestly ask
That a general congress of women without limit of nationality,
May be appointed and held at someplace deemed most convenient
And the earliest period consistent with its objects,
To promote the alliance of the different nationalities,
The amicable settlement of international questions,
The great and general interests of peace."

Mark My Words...Here's Something Mississippi will Jump on...

2009-05-09T20:55:00.002-05:00

Make your favorite mom(s) a star. Send a customized video now.

2009-05-08T17:24:00.002-05:00

Here's mine:

http://news.cnnbcvideo.com/?nid=w_EylBSkjUh8APSawlIosTI0NDU3ODI-&referred_by=15960056-C10dCjx

Click the title link and go make your mom one :)

God Don't Like Ugly....

2009-05-05T17:07:00.003-05:00

and this is ugly on so, so many levels.

seems as though the town of Victorville was fining the bank daily for code enforcement and the bank decided it would be cheaper to just level them and start over with clear land. When I first heard this story on Inside Edition it made my stomach churn. Just demolish 20 or so 400K homes (before the market crash) WTF? Once I watched all the videos (yes there are more) it seems as though they did remove appliances and such but I'm not really sure. All I could think about was why didn't they just sell them for what they could get out of them instead of demolishing them. I just don't understand the reasoning. Then I read more and did a little research and at least now I understand...snark.

Examples of what people are doing to their homes when they get the foreclosure notice.

This is how only one of the banks that received the TARP money are making decisions. Truly, I'm afraid to dig too deep....

Ok, Just Chill...Links for Swine Flu Prevention/Treatment

2009-04-30T14:37:00.003-05:00

PandemicFlu.gov--A Guide for Individuals and Families Business Pandemic Influenza Planning Checklist

2009 H1N1 Flu Virus Get email alerts of changes here

Ecolabs Flu Tips courtesy of Therapy Worksheets

Stopping the Spread of Germs at Work

"Cover Your Cough" 8 1/2 by 11 printable flyer for healthcare settings 11 by 17 Languages other than English and flyers/posters for other settings

Finally!

2009-04-29T06:55:00.003-05:00

Yesterday Sojourner Truth took her rightful place on earth. She became the first African American woman to be memorialized with a bust in the U.S. Capitol. Now, I don't know if you've ever heard Ms Truth's "Ain't I a Woman" speech but I was fortunate enough to have gone to an HBCU where reinactments were done by students every spring of many/all the great speeches given over the years by black women. I will never forget the first year I went and a student with a loud booming voice gave Ms Truth's speech with such love and conviction, as if the very words of the speech were not enough. It had the same effect on me it must have had when Ms. Truth actually delivered the words herself at a women's rights convention in 1851. I will never be as I was before I heard that delivery. Here it is in it's entirety taken from Duane and Eva Bristow's (neighbors) family webpage.

"Sojourner walked to the podium and slowly took off her sunbonnet. Her six-foot frame towered over the audience. She began to speak in her deep, resonant voice: "Well, children, where there is so much racket, there must be something out of kilter, I think between the Negroes of the South and the women of the North - all talking about rights - the white men will be in a fix pretty soon. But what's all this talking about?"

Sojourner pointed to one of the ministers. "That man over there says that women need to be helped into carriages, and lifted over ditches, and to have the best place everywhere. Nobody helps me any best place. And ain't I a woman?"

Sojourner raised herself to her full height. "Look at me! Look at my arm." She bared her right arm and flexed her powerful muscles. "I have plowed, I have planted and I have gathered into barns. And no man could head me. And ain't I a woman?"

"I could work as much, and eat as much as man - when I could get it - and bear the lash as well! And ain't I a woman? I have borne children and seen most of them sold into slavery, and when I cried out with a mother's grief, none but Jesus heard me. And ain't I a woman?"

The women in the audience began to cheer wildly.

She pointed to another minister. "He talks about this thing in the head. What's that they call it?"

"Intellect," whispered a woman nearby.

"That's it, honey. What's intellect got to do with women's rights or black folks' rights? If my cup won't hold but a pint and yours holds a quart, wouldn't you be mean not to let me have my little half-measure full?"

"That little man in black there! He says women can't have as much rights as men. ‘Cause Christ wasn't a woman. She stood with outstretched arms and eyes of fire. "Where did your Christ come from?"

"Where did your Christ come from?", she thundered again. "From God and a Woman! Man had nothing to do with him!"

The entire church now roared with deafening applause.

"If the first woman God ever made was strong enough to turn the world upside down all alone, these women together ought to be able to turn it back and get it right-side up again. And now that they are asking to do it the men better let them.""

There is no transcription of the actual speech but Frances Dana Gage's version is the generally accepted one, even though there is some controversy about her version because she did not write it up until 1863.

Books by Sojourner Truth

sojournertruth.org

Timeline

This Far by Faith-PBS series

The Art of Truth Gallery

The Narrative of Sojourner Truth Awesome!

Blog for Fair Pay Day 2009

2009-04-28T15:36:00.002-05:00

Click the title link to be taken to Womenstake the blog for the National Women's Law Center. There you can follow what people are saying on twitter and get the list of blogs who have participated so far today. I'm sick. I have plenty to say but just don't have the brain power, besides I'm sure on that list there are plenty of blog posts that express my feelings on the matter. Thanks.

100 All-Time Best Productivity Tips for Working & Learning from Home

2009-04-27T09:01:00.002-05:00

Was referred to this by an email from the Best Universities/Top Ten Online Colleges site Normally I stay away from online colleges because they will kill your email box and clog up your phone line trying to recruit you but if I could live my life this way I would be set :)

"If you work at home, you know that the dream of having a home office can quickly turn into a nightmare of distraction and an unhealthy work-life balance if you don’t keep your productivity under control. By following some of these simple tips, you can help ensure that your home office is a productive one. Read on, and you’ll learn 100 of the best tips for getting things done at home, whether you’re working or learning.

Office space

Keep these tips in mind when settling into your office or learning space at home.

1. Set aside a space: Create a designated space, preferably a room to be your workspace.
2. Physically separate yourself: Train your mind to set yourself apart from your home life when working: close your door, and separate yourself from the rest of the house.
3. Invest in a good chair: Get a mesh backed or leather chair to support your back.
4. Pick a quiet spot: It’s obvious, but important. Set your home office up in an area that will be away from the distractions of home.
5. Highlight your accomplishments: Surround yourself with the things you’ve done — diplomas, important photographs, and other reminders of your success.
6. Create a bright and cheerful environment: Make your home office cheerful to avoid stress and stay happy throughout the day.
7. Use a laptop: With a laptop, you have the freedom to work anywhere you’d like to.
8. Have a separate computer: Use a separate computer for work and leisure.
9. Get out: Go to a coffee shop, the beach, anywhere you can get good work done for a change of pace.
10. Put plants in your office: Soak up stagnant air by keeping plants in your office.
11. Use caller ID: See who is calling and avoid answering for telemarketers or others who will waste your time.
12. Keep a dry erase board: Use a dry erase board to keep your tasks and reminders in easy view.
13. Keep things clean: A tidy desk will help control stress and keep you more productive.
14. Consider a standing desk: With a standing desk, you can stay more alert and active in your work day.
15. Stay away from your couch: Sit at a desk rather than working from your couch or bed.
16. Set boundaries: Make sure that those in your home know when you’re working and that you’re not to be bothered.
17. Clear your desk of nonessentials: Put away everything you don’t really need.
18. Get a great coffee maker: Many people love using coffee to boost productivity, so invest in a high quality coffee maker.
19. Use noise canceling headphones: Keep noise and distraction out by using headphones that keep things quiet.
20. Use a separate phone: With a separate phone line, you can keep personal calls to a minimum during your working hours.

Habits

Practice these good habits to stay productive and happy in your home office.

21. Get dressed: Every day, bathe and make yourself presentable enough for a surprise visitor or trip out of your home so you’ll be ready for anything.
22. Stay logged out: Avoid logging into IM, social media sites, and other distractions.
23. Carefully separate work and personal life: Don’t get sucked into working around the clock when you’re at home.
24. Create rituals: Give yourself a daily signal that it’s time to start working.
25. Eat first: Don’t fall victim to low blood sugar — eat before you start working.
26. Get ready for the day: Practice good grooming — change out of your pajamas, have a shower, and breakfast before you get down to work.
27. Commit to tasks: Don’t let yourself slack off if you’re having a rough day, or you may find that you just can’t get anything done.
28. Give yourself a weekly review: Every week, take time to think about what you’ve gotten done.
29. Use distraction reducing tools: Make use of tools that will clear your digital desktop of everything that’s not important.
30. Turn your phone off: Turn off your phone when you need to minimize distractions.
31. Simplify everything: Focus only on what really matters.

Time management

Use these tips to make sure time doesn’t get away from you.

32. Set time boundaries for online use: Limit your online use by setting specific times when you’ll be available to chat and check websites.
33. Keep regular hours: Carefully schedule which hours you’ll work, and which hours are personal time.
34. Work when you’re most productive: If you’re most productive around 1AM, schedule your most important work for that time.
35. Give yourself limits: Always have a finish line for when you have to stop working.
36. Do important tasks early: Take care of important tasks before you get hit by the lunchtime slump.
37. Take sprints: When your timer is ticking, focus and work in a sprinting mode.
38. Schedule fun time: Take time to do the things you enjoy on a set schedule.
39. Unplug and work on battery power: Create a sense of urgency to get things done by working on battery power, where time is limited.
40. Use timers: Give yourself short times to do a frenzy of work by setting a timer.
41. Group your errands: Keep your out-of-office time to a minimum by doing as many errands as you can at one time.
42. Keep emails short and sweet: Master the art of the five-sentence email.
43. Just do it: Practice willpower and keep yourself on track to just getting things done.
44. Be a good boss to yourself: Don’t let yourself become a slacker, but don’t make yourself a slave to work either.
45. Give yourself deadlines: Make yourself accountable by setting hard deadlines for getting things done.
46. Check email on a schedule: Check email just twice a day to keep it from taking over your online life.
47. Get up early: If you start working at noon, you’ll feel cheated and sluggish when 5:00 comes around and you want to stop working.
48. Use short bursts of productivity: Give yourself just a small time of focused work activity to get things done.
49. Ignore distractions: Stay away from your inbox, Twitter, TV, and other things that demand your time.
50. Track your time: Use a time tracking tool to stay on top of what you’re getting done and when you’re doing it.
51. Take breaks: Don’t let yourself get sucked into work. Remember to refresh yourself with breaks every hour or so.

Organization

Follow these tips to help your organization breed productivity.

52. Keep lists: Keep lists that detail daily tasks, hopeful tasks, and anytime tasks.
53. Write things down: Write everything down right as you think of it.
54. Keep a calendar: Stay on top of what you’re going to do and when you’re going to do it.
55. Get your to-do list out of your email: Stay organized by keeping all of your tasks in one place.
56. Create a tickler system: Use a tickler system to make sure you stay on top of important tasks and events coming up.
57. Designate days for tasks: Do certain things on specific days to stay on track.
58. Carefully process tasks and information: Have a place for items in your notes and inboxes.
59. Keep notes handy: You never know when inspiration will strike, so keep a notepad at the ready.
60. Keep files: Minimize clutter by creating simple files you’ll actually use.

Happiness

A happy work environment is a productive one, so follow these tips to make sure you’re happy with your work at home.

61. Go out for lunch every once in a while: Even if you mostly eat at home for lunch, it’s good to get out and visit with a friend or colleague occasionally.
62. Remember what it’s like to work in an office: Be grateful that you get to work at home!
63. Listen to music: Keep your creativity flowing with upbeat music throughout the day.
64. Stop working: When your work is done, leave it and don’t come back until the next day. Make notes for yourself if you need to remember something.
65. Work in a group: Study or work with a group of people to support each other.
66. Just say no: If you don’t have the time or resources to do a task, just don’t do it.
67. Get out and enjoy the weather: Take advantage of your flexible schedule and carve out some time to enjoy the weather or special events that you otherwise wouldn’t get if you were working in an office.
68. Do what you love: Do what you love, and you won’t mind working.
69. Reward yourself: When you’ve finished an important task, reward yourself with something quick but enjoyable, like a walk around the block or a check on social media sites.
70. Watch TV: Take advantage of the fact that you can work when you choose, and do what you like at certain times during the day.
71. Develop relationships: Nurture connections and network.
72. Make time for others: Respond to emails, and keep in touch with people.
73. Remember to be grateful: Say thank you to your clients, coworkers, employers, and other people you may work with regularly.

Workflow

Follow these workflow tips to keep everything running smoothly.

74. Outsource: Whenever possible, get someone else to do work for you, like a bookkeeper or delivery service.
75. Stop multitasking: Multitasking is inefficient — focus on one thing at a time.
76. Do your hardest work first: Tackle the work that you’d most like to put off early on, so you won’t be dreading it all day.
77. Set priorities: Keep in mind the tasks that are most important in order to prioritize your day.
78. Take small steps: Don’t try to tackle a huge task all at once: break it down into small, manageable tasks.
79. Make your online life simpler: Reduce the amount of time you spend online by simplifying.
80. Learn to let go: You don’t have to be a perfectionist — just get things done.
81. Make it easy to get started: Give yourself a small way to start up a task.
82. Eliminate unnecessary tasks: Just say no to things you don’t really need to do.
83. Use technology: Fully utilize web meetings, email, and voicemail to communicate effectively.
84. Give yourself daily goals: Have specific goals in mind for every work day.
85. Create an action plan every evening: Before you stop working every day, plan out what you’re going to do the next day.

Parents

Working or studying from home is a special challenge to parents of young children. Follow these tips to stay productive.

86. Hire a babysitter: Consider child care, even if it’s just for limited hours.
87. Make naptime work time: Use your child’s nap times to get work done.
88. Keep your children occupied: Set up an area for your child to play with lots of toys, or even a mini office for them to imitate you working.
89. Take turns: If you and your spouse both work or study at home, switch off times when one works while the other watches over children.
90. Work late at night: If your schedule can handle it, get your work done when the house is asleep.
91. Manage your interruptions: If your baby starts crying, instead of immediately running to tend to it, take a few seconds to write down the task you were on or the thought you were forming, so you can get right back on track.

Health

Follow these tips to keep yourself healthy and productive while working or learning at home.

92. Stay active: Make sure you take time to be active throughout the day, whether it’s a morning walk with your dog, or a trip to the gym.
93. Give your eyes a break: About ten minutes of every hour, your eyes need to be away from your computer.
94. Keep water at your desk: Stay hydrated and healthy by always keeping water to drink at your desk.
95. Fidget: Don’t stay perfectly still when working at your desk.
96. Stretch: Sitting at your desk all day or all night can take a toll on your body, so be sure to get up and stretch every now and then.
97. Eat a full lunch: Don’t just snack throughout the day; take the time to sit down and have a healthy lunch.
98. Stand up for phone calls: Whenever you get a phone call, get up and walk around the house.
99. Take a micronap: Doze off for a few minutes and wake up refreshed, ready to tackle your work.
100. Be careful not to munch all day: Avoid eating all day while you’re distracted with work: stop to eat instead of multitasking."

Then there was this one that came today from OnlineColleges.net 15 iPhone Apps Created by College Students in case your interested.

As someone who has speculated about a masters program for social workers online I can tell you this...you're pretty much screwed. There are programs out there just be sure that the program is CSWE approved before you invest anything or you will have invested your time and your money and not be able to get a master license.

Playing Catch-up

2009-04-26T11:30:00.005-05:00

It's time for me to let go of that "facecrack" addiction I've got going on. We've been sick for a week. the boy's ear drum busted...that was great fun, then I got the infection too. So that's my excuse for spending every waking moment on facebook this past week. Pitiful, I know. Anyway I'm feeling better today so I'm playing catch up with everything I should have posted the past two weeks.

Wednesday's Words from Women Women's stories on the abortion issue.

Support the REAL Act

NWLC's 2009 Child Nutrition Reauthorization Child and Adult Care Food Program
Preschool Recommendations

Child Welfare League of America Keeping Families Together and Safe: A Curriculum for Child Protective Services Workers and Homeless Services Workers (Instructor Manual) (Participant Manual)

Victims of Crime A Social Work Response: Building Skills to Strengthen Survivors

The Mudflats: Soap Meets Hot Water Been awhile since I checked in on the goings on in Alaska... :)

That's about all my brain can do this morning so I'll leave you with the week's greatest pictures found over at K8 the G8's site

and over at Addiction Inbox

Have a great day!!!

Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality

2009-04-14T05:50:00.002-05:00

Here's a cool page I stumbled upon this morning.

Browse Quality Tools by Subject

Don'tcha Just Love This Picture???

2009-04-12T09:02:00.004-05:00

Happy Easter everyone!

Postcards from Amerah

2009-04-09T21:20:00.002-05:00

Normally I don't even acknowledge that Fox News exists but when they pay tribute to my girl's work I feel like they can't be all bad and are worth a mention here for bringing this story to the public. Check out the awesome kids. It will bring a smile to your face despite the tragedy of the story. Oh, and of coarse my girl is in it too :)

Teaching Tolerance has New Lesson Plans up for Earth Day

2009-04-08T12:33:00.002-05:00

Below is the list from Teaching Tolerance for Earth Day:

Fair is Fair: Introducing Kids to the Idea of Environmental Racism

Progressive Urban Planners

Reporting on Environmental Racism

The Bandana Project from the Southern Poverty Law Center

Positive Intervention Works
Schools across the country are using Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (or PBIS) to reduce in-school suspensions and dropout rates. The federal government is now encouraging school systems to spend stimulus funds on PBIS.

Stimulus funds for PBIS

OSEP Technical Assistance Center on Positive Behavioral Interventions & Supports

Contacts by State

The Building Blocks of Positive Behavior

Got Food? Thank a Farmworker

Immigration and Segregation: Passing the Test and Failing the Future?

Lessons from Literature

2009-04-06T00:23:00.001-05:00

This site is apparently new from The Family Violence and Prevention Fund, a great resource in itself, but could develop into greatness. I love the idea and scope so far.

"Lessons from Literature is an innovative program that enlists English teachers like you — from all across the country — to use the books and material you’re already teaching to facilitate discussion and build awareness about physical, verbal and sexual abuse. Prompted by a growing public interest in and demand for programs that seek to prevent abuse, Lessons from Literature helps address this problem among youth in the classroom and beyond.

Lessons from Literature engages and empowers you with actionable resources that help students learn the required material while also enabling adolescents to build healthy, non-violent relationships."

There is a pretty cool Power and Control Wheel that would be great to print out and put on every wall you can find :)

Also check out the home page for all they have to offer.

Office for Victims of Crime Training and Technical Assistance Center: Sexual Assault Advocate/Counselor Training Presenter's Toolbox

2009-04-05T00:07:00.000-06:00

Click the title link for the toolbox. Click here for an online resource directory of crime victims services where you can enter by state or country, type of victimization, type of service provided and/or type of agency involved or needed.

Pharmacy Refusals 101 Factsheet: National Women's Law Center

2009-04-04T11:42:00.002-06:00

I'm working with the Census, collecting addresses for the 2010 census and as a good friend of mine said this week "it must be kicking your butt" so probably until the end of May this will be the best I can do...keep up and post links. Pray for "Louise" (my car)...that she holds up :) Just know that I'm out there having fun :)

YaYa's Funhouse

2009-03-29T16:05:00.002-06:00

Normally I don't follow domestic type blogs. Everybody is just to damn happy, ya know? Anyway, I happened upon YaYa's Funhouse today and had myself a good laugh. Not only does she love Lucy as do I but we are the same age living in the same town...how strange is that? Anyway this is what I found over there:

"WHAT WE'VE LEARNED IN THE SOUTH

-A possum is a flat animal that sleeps in the middle of the road
-There are 5,000 types of snakes and 4,998 of them live in South
-There are 10,000 types of spiders. All 10,000 of them live in South
-If it grows, it'll stick ya. If it crawls, it'll bite cha
-It is not a shopping cart, it's a buggy
-People actually grow and eat okra
-There is no such thing as 'lunch.' There is only dinner and then there is supper
-Iced tea is appropriate for all meals, and you start drinking it when you're two. We do like a little tea with our sugar
-Backwards and forwards means, 'I know everything about you'
-You don't have to wear a watch, because it doesn't matter what time it is. You work until you're done or it's too dark to see
-You don't PUSH buttons, you MASH EM
-You measure distance in minutes
-You switch from heat to A/C in the same day
-The local papers cover national and international news on one page, but require 6 pages for local gossip and high school football
-You think that the first day of deer season is a national holiday
-You find 100 degrees Fahrenheit 'a bit warm'
-You know all four seasons: Almost summer, summer, still summer, and Christmas
-You describe the first cool snap (below 70 degrees) as good chili weather"

Don't I post my chili recipe right after the first cool snap? The possum cracked me up. She got the seasons right, that's for sure, but the one that got me was switching from heat to A/C in the same day...we're in that pattern right now :) go on over and have a gander...

Worried about your stats?

2009-03-27T05:38:00.001-06:00

Go on over to Men with Pens today and get some love...or get your butt kicked if you need it :)

John Hope Franklin--Rest Now, You're Work Here on Earth in Done

2009-03-26T03:56:00.004-06:00

John Hope Franklin Memorial Website

Biography

The John Hope Franklin Center

Author John Hope Franklin

johnhopefranklin.com

The John Hope Franklin Collection at Duke University

Wiki page

This is what you get when you insist on "abstinance only" programs

2009-03-24T15:53:00.003-06:00

There are three things I know to be true in this area:

1) Sex is going to always and forever be participated in.

2) There are always going to be unwanted pregnancies.

3) There are always going to be male partners who refuse to accept the responsibility for what they helped create.

Click the title link for the solution to an unwanted pregnancy some have chosen.

As Reas would say *head -> desk*

Youth Violence Prevention Week: March 23-27

2009-03-24T07:52:00.002-06:00

The National Criminal Justice Reference Service has a special feature up in recognition of this week.

"NCJRS has created this Special Feature to focus on violence among youths and the prevention of such violence.

The pages of this Special Feature contain compilations of topical publications and related resources on juvenile violence, youth violence research, juvenile gun and gang activity, statistics, and youth violence prevention."

Preachin' to the Choir...

2009-03-23T14:37:00.002-06:00

Found this on medpagetoday

"WASHINGTON, March 20 -- One patient in four with a chronic condition has postponed healthcare or filling a prescription in the past year because he can't afford it, researchers here said.
Action Points

* Explain that 25% of patients with a chronic condition -- especially Latinos, middle-age women, and the poor -- can't afford their care.

* Note that many are dissatisfied with the care they do receive, with about 45% wishing their physician could spend more time addressing their needs.

Latinos (43%) and middle-age women (39%) are among those more likely to report delaying care, according to a survey by the National Council on Aging.

Although the poor are more likely to report delaying care, 22% of patients with household incomes above $50,000 have done so, according to the survey.

Those who have put postponed treatment are also more likely to be in frequent physical pain (45% versus 28% of those who have not delayed care), to be fatigued (49% versus 28%), and to be stressed (40% versus 17%).

The survey -- conducted between Jan. 5 and Jan. 30, 2009 among 1,109 adults ages 44 and up with at least one chronic condition -- is a snapshot of patients living with chronic conditions such as heart disease, arthritis, hypertension, and diabetes.

The survey included an oversample of those 65 and older (n=594 total), as well as an oversample of Latinos (n=142 total). The margin of sampling error for the total results is +2.9 percentage points.

Many report dissatisfaction with the care they receive. Some 44% wish their physician had more time to spend talking to them about their condition, and 45% said they never get referrals to important chronic care resources such as counselors and health educators.

Nearly a third report leaving their physician's office confused about what they should do regarding their care, and many say their providers aren't doing anything to improve their care.

About 57% said their physicians haven't asked whether they have help at home to manage their problems, and 45% said they rarely or never receive referrals to support services such as classes, counselors, or health educators.

Many patients are living with several chronic diseases: 68% report having two or more conditions and 20% have four or more.

Those with one chronic condition are healthier, have higher incomes, and have more support at home; while those with multiple conditions tend to have low incomes and less support.

Half of those with chronic conditions are unhappy or depressed at least occasionally because of their health problems, and 32% report having to cut back on social activities. A little more than a quarter report having to miss work.

Almost 40% of patients said they don't have the money to begin improving their health, a percentage that's particularly high among Latinos (63%), African Americans (58%), the poor (65%) and those with four or more chronic conditions (59%).

However, 70% said learning how to exercise or eat better in ways that work with their limitations would help them cope, and 68% say getting advice from others with similar conditions would help as well.

Fifty-six percent of Americans 44 and older with chronic conditions are Internet users -- and of these, 63% say they would be interested in going to Web sites sponsored by health organizations to get information and support.

Even 27% of those who rarely or never use the Internet say they would be interested in going to Web sites for information and support.

Nancy Whitelaw, senior vice president of the Center for Health Aging at the National Council on Aging, said the report highlights the need to reform the healthcare system in order to support patients with chronic conditions.

"We encourage physicians not to take on the responsibility themselves, but to build a mechanism to refer patients to community-based health education programs that are effective," Whitelaw said.

She added that physicians can help connect patients to such programs via a community agency that deals with the aging.

The survey was funded by the Atlantic Philanthropies and the California HealthCare Foundation.

Primary source: National Council on Aging
Source reference:
"Reforming healthcare: American speak out about chronic conditions and the pursuit of healthier lives" NCOA 2009."

Here's another one from the New York Times...if you have the stomach for it this morning...

2009-03-22T08:08:00.002-06:00

The Best Post I've Read on AIG Al Week

2009-03-21T15:37:00.004-06:00

Normally I read Crooks and Liars, The Daily Bail and AMERICABlog to keep me up to speed on all things "bailout" and the news world in general. Today I was bored and a bit lonely because the boy is on his first "road trip" with eight other boys (way more undisciplined than him) so I was wandering about the blogosphere.

I found this commentary by Richard Blair over at All Spin Zone "Lennon/McCartney Address the AIG Concern Trolls" Although I'm not quite sure why they have pictures of Ann Coulter all over their home page and it is funny that when you click on the Ann Coulter pictures there is a "page not found" error that comes up, go have a read :)

Oh, shoot I haven't thrown my tomatoes at AIG yet today...must go do that :)

Medical Schools Must Reform How They Train Physicians

2009-03-20T15:29:00.003-06:00

Woo Hoo! It sounds like they might finally be getting it...that you must learn to look at the whole person and consider all factors that might be influencing the health of that person. I would be a bit choked up except for the fact it almost seems like to little to late, but at least they are finally acknowledging there is a problem.

Click the title link for the press release. Click Revisiting the Medical School Educational Mission at a Time of Expansion

Go Throw Some Tomatoes at AIG...It'll Make You Feel Better :)

2009-03-20T14:12:00.006-06:00

Here's something you can do this weekend :)

"Subject: Help me throw 5 million tomatoes at AIG!

Hi,

The people at AIG who are most responsible for the severity of the financial crisis should be in jail. But instead, they're slated to get $450 million in bonuses. Infuriating, right?

So a MoveOn member created a game to show just how mad Americans are at AIG. It's called The Great AIG Tomato Toss and it's based on the idea that we should stop throwing money at the people who ruined our economy—and start throwing tomatoes.

I just played, and it's a blast. Can you play too—and help reach the goal of 5 million tomatoes thrown? http://www.moveon.org/tomato/

Thanks!"

Click here for some great AIG cartoons

A Birth Mother's Story

2009-03-17T20:38:00.002-06:00

Go get a cup of coffee or whatever you need, some tissues and be prepared to sit for awhile, cry and remember when you read this post over at Shakesville. Read the comments too.

Sign the Petition Today!

2009-03-17T08:44:00.002-06:00

"The people in AIG's financial products division are perhaps more responsible for the severity of our economic meltdown than anyone else.

And yet, they're getting $450 million in bonuses.

That's just plain unacceptable. On Wednesday, we have a chance to let AIG's leaders know what we think of their bonuses.

When AIG's executives appear before the House subcommittee, we'll make sure they hear your voices. We'll deliver all the signatures and comments we receive before 5 p.m. ET on Tuesday in time for Wednesday's hearing."

Click the title link to be taken to the page to sign the petition.

Hey AIG, Listen to Iowa Senater Grassley...

2009-03-17T08:09:00.002-06:00

It's a shame he had to go back and cover his political ass but what he said in the first place is pretty much how we all feel...isn't it?

"The Republican lawmaker's harsh comments came Monday during an interview with Cedar Rapids, Iowa, radio station WMT. They echoed remarks he has made in the past about corporate executives and public apologies, but went further in suggesting suicide.

"I would suggest the first thing that would make me feel a little bit better towards them if they'd follow the Japanese example and come before the American people and take that deep bow and say, I'm sorry, and then either do one of two things: resign or go commit suicide," said Grassley.

Soon afterward, Grassley spokesman Casey Mills said the senator was speaking in hyperbole and "doesn't want U.S. executives to do that." He said his words were meant to say those who accept tax dollars and spend them on travel and bonuses do so irresponsibly.

Other Capitol Hill lawmakers also voiced their outrage over AIGs big bonuses, though in somewhat less violent terms.

Rep. Barney Frank, D-Mass., chairman of the House Financial Services Committee, said he's disgusted by the news and is calling for a shake-up at AIG.

"These people may have a right to their bonuses. They don't have a right to their jobs forever," Frank said on NBC's "Today" show Monday. "It does appear to be that we're rewarding incompetence."

On Tuesday, a pair of congressional hearings will focus on the insurance industry.

A Senate panel will look into whether insurance companies should be regulated by states or the federal government. A House committee will examine systemic risk in the financial services industry, with an eye toward avoiding a repeat of the AIG situation, in which one company's fall could bring down an entire industry.

Both hearings are expected to provide lawmakers with opportunities to take a few more shots at AIG executives." Click the title link for the entire article.

AIG is at it again...oh, wait...they never stopped...

2009-03-16T05:51:00.005-06:00

This just makes me want to vomit. Chris over at Americablog says it best. Here is Brilliant at Breakfast's take on it. Here's a New York Times article. It seems as though now they are saying they "have" to make 165 million in bonus payments because they are contractually obligated to do so for fear of being sued. The Wall Street Journal says the amount is more like 450 million.

As I sit here trying to figure out if I can afford my $9 inhaler from Wal-Mart or if I should go for the $4 nebulizer meds instead this makes me sick. Oh, hell yeah, please give them whatever they want and friggin' forget about the rest of us because it is much more important that precious AIG not get sued than whether or not I can breathe.

Here's a speech maybe everyone on Capitol Hill should read...TO BIG HAS FAILED

*edit*

Yesterday AIG finally posted a full list of their counterparties (the companies/banks that got your money) Click here for the full list.

Big Mama Thornton is up on the blues page

2009-03-15T13:21:00.002-06:00

Click the title link to go have a listen :)

I Am Too Old For Zits!

2009-03-14T08:17:00.003-06:00

I thought the one good thing about getting older was the teenage zit phase was long gone. Apparently, I was mistaken. I could swear that my aunt (the only one in the family with oily skin, like me) told me, not only that I would be glad I had that oily skin when I got older (when?) but, that as I got older the zits would clear up and go away never to be seen again. She lied to me and I'm pissed about it. The only time in my life I can remember not having a zit somewhere was when I was on birth control pills. That was an awesome time in my life, except for the fact that birth control pills also acted as fertility pills for me and every time I got off them I got pregnant.

Anyway I have five zits on my face and have had the same five zits on my face for at least a month now. I have washed. I have cleansed. I have creamed. I have used steaming hot water face cloths on them. I have walked around here with big, cracked white masks on my face. I have consumed gallons of water. Yesterday I even took the pumice heel scrubber to the dead skin around them, thinking that if I got rid of the dead skin then they would heal. Silly me. Granted, my face is as smooth as a baby's, but the-zits-are-still-there.

Thinking about birth control pills reminds me of the triage nurse in the emergency room during my last visit. For the first time someone actually used that dreaded word in reference to my general state of being "menopause" Aaaccckkk! It wasn't that she used the dreaded word, she just wrote it down on my chart without giving a second thought to the devastating effect it would have on me :) I'm sure she assumed I already knew I was in menopause. I know how old I am and I know a couple of years ago I had to swallow my pride to go get the bifocals and I know my hair gets more gray in it everyday, but menopause??? My bones are still strong, I don't have hot flashes and the puss hasn't dried up yet, so in my mind I am not in menopause. I refuse to believe I have to go on hormone therapy to get rid of some zits. I-just-refuse.

Ok, that's my rant for the day....I'm going to wash my face...again...

Petition for Accountability

2009-03-13T14:16:00.003-06:00

Found the link to this petition over on Feministe today, thought you might be interested...

"Subject: Stop the banks from spending our tax dollars to lobby for Wal-Mart

Dear Friend,

Last fall, Congress authorized a massive bailout for the financial industry - $750 billion to be distributed without restrictions on how it could be spent. At the time, CREDO activists like you asked Congress to impose guidelines on banks for spending our tax dollars. But Congress didn't listen. And now we're paying the price.

This week, Citigroup spent some of its $50 billion in bailout money to organize big corporations to defeat the Employee Free Choice Act - a bill that would make it easier for workers to form unions and bargain for better wages and benefits. According to the Huffington Post, Citigroup's retail analyst Deborah Weinswig participated in a conference call for corporate interests working to kill the bill.

Just a few weeks ago, Weinswig gave the Wal-Mart a favorable 9.5 rating out of 10. But now, in a cynical bid to stoke public fears that stronger unions will have an adverse affect on stock values, Citigroup downgraded Wal-Mart's rating from "Buy" to "Hold."

It is unacceptable that banks like Citigroup and Bank of America have been spending our tax dollars to fight for legislation that boosts corporate profits at the expense of the middle class.

I just took action to tell the people charged with overseeing the bailout to investigate Citigroup and Bank of America. If these banks don't stop misspending their TARP money immediately, they should not receive another dime. I hope you'll sign the petition, too.

Please have a look and take action.

http://act.credoaction.com/campaign/banks_efca/?r_by=-1964283-Gup.HXx&rc=paste

Thanks!"

So Maybe I Must Re-Think My Catholicism

2009-03-12T20:29:00.002-06:00

I've had a funny feeling deep in my gut ever since John Paul II died and this new pope was installed. See, right now I can't even recall his name. Being half Jewish by birth probably has something to do with it. The new pope's German heritage and the fact that he served with Hitler's Youth in his younger days probably has more to do with it. But I just read this article on what is going on in Cameroon to ready the country for his visit and now I know I must do some deep, deep soul searching. It's just the final straw, so to speak. I'll be watching and reading about how his holiness reacts to such deplorable treatment. Maybe I should do a complete post on why I disagree with our new pope? Much research must be done first.

My Middle School Vocabulary

2009-03-11T23:29:00.003-06:00

**edit**

Ok, this is turning out to be one of my most linked to posts...and it was just a rant. It's right up there with "fried cornbread" So even though I don't understand how people are landing here because I'm not on google's first page of listings for "middle school vocabulary" I feel obligated to provide you links to what you are really looking for...

Middle School Vocabulary Practice Tests

vocabulary.com There are great tools here!

101 Middle School Vocabulary Words from Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince

Your Vocabulary Building & Communication Training Center
Vocabulary Improvement Resources for Parents, Students & Professionals

Quizlet.com--flashcard sets

word search maker

Recently I was accused of having only a middle school vocabulary and it was suggested that I increase said vocabulary starting with children's books. Growing up I don't think I ever read a single "children's" book. We read Tolstoy, Sarte, Hemingway, Faulkner and the like in my house. When I was thirteen I tested at third year college level for reading and vocabulary.

When I had the boy I managed to keep my sanity through all the chaos by reading to him every children's book I could get my hands on. We loved Dr. Seuss the most, but we read everything from The Chronicles of Narnia, the Beatrix Potter series, The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, we loved the Indian in the Cupboard and the Velveteen Rabbit, just to name a few.

My accuser doesn't know my history and only passed ever so slightly through here long enough to get ammunition to use against me to justify their own shortcomings. The whole thing is just sad.

It's sad that I didn't take Reas's word for it that the post made her angry and just leave it at that. I should have and I will from now on. :)

It's sad that I freely admit to only having a middle school vocabulary now and believe me I'm grateful for it. I think I do alright with what I have, considering what I went through. There was a time when I couldn't speak or write at all. I'm grateful the vocabulary loss is the only noticeable result of that terrible time in my life.

But the saddest thing of all is what I read that made me speak up with all my middle school vocabulary would allow me at that moment. What I read was a post from an ER nurse that was so filled with hate and racism I can not even link you to it for fear you will go read it. If you feel you must, go to Reas's page and you can find it there. Instead of blaming the system where the blame should be, she blamed the victim. It was also sad the number of comments she had that totally agreed with her and along with bashing me, invited me to take a walk on their side and then see how I felt.

I don't have to take that walk. I've lived it. I've lived with the disdain from doctors and nurses in the ER that write off the very idea that you might have any semblance of intelligence simply because you don't have insurance and have nowhere else to go to be treated. I've lived with "free" clinics that are filled beyond capacity and I have lived with being treated about as well as cattle going to slaughter.

What is not sad is that somewhere along the way I did manage to come across doctors and nurses and therapists with compassion and an understanding for me and my situation and they treated me with respect despite my circumstances. For these practitioners I will be forever grateful because were it not for them I would not have pulled myself out of the battered wife with a newborn syndrome. It was their strength of character and their compassion that made me believe there was light at the end of the seemingly endless tunnel.

I know I would be dead by now and so would the boy if all we had encountered were judgemental, biased, racist practitioners.

So I say to them...Take a look at how you really feel...maybe it's time to get out of the ER and go to a less stressful area of the hospital...maybe wherever it is in your hospital that the "insured" go.

The Second Road

2009-03-11T22:45:00.002-06:00

The Second Road is a great place to spend some of your free time. TSR is all about recovery, recovery from more angles than you might have ever imagined. There are eight blogs involved, chat groups, forums, sharing walls and even raffles. They have recently launched a YouTube channel with different individual's stories of recovery. Check it out.

Appropriations Bill for FY 09 Provides Additional Funding for Programs Important to Women and Families--National Women's Law Center

2009-03-11T14:51:00.004-06:00

The National Women's Law Center has published a great pdf hitting the high spots of interest to women of the 09 budget approved this week. Click the title link to be taken to the page.

"Congress has now passed legislation to fund government services for the rest of FY 09. (These appropriations are for regular program operations; increases for certain programs in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act are in addition to these funds.) In contrast to President Bush’s budget, which cut funding for domestic programs, this appropriations bill increases funding above the FY 08 level for a number of services that are especially important to
women and their families"

The Real Reason AIG got the Money...Systemic Risk

2009-03-11T09:52:00.002-06:00

Now we have a term for "bankrupting the entire world"-- systemic risk

If you have a hard time reading this you can view it larger here.

Aig Systemic 090309

Publish at Scribd or explore others: Business & Legal baiklouts aig

Quote of the week...

2009-03-11T08:04:00.006-06:00

This is the best(truest)explanation of what happened on/to Wall St. I've read to date. The quote?

"“In physics there may one day be a Theory of Everything; in finance and the social sciences, you’re lucky if there is a useable theory of anything.”"

Good Lord This Guy was Pissed at the Entire World!

2009-03-10T21:44:00.004-06:00

I can't wait until tomorrow morning to hear the spin/speculations from all the news channels....

The Uninsured: Two Primers FYI

2009-03-10T16:05:00.002-06:00

Income, Poverty, and Health Insurance Coverage in the United States: 2007

The Uninsured: Key Facts About Americans Without Health Insurance

Or if you just want to hit the high spots, click the title link.

Tell Congress: "No More Dough Until We Know Where It Goes--Sign the Petition!

2009-03-10T15:29:00.002-06:00

I got this email from Firedoglake today:

"On January 13, Rep. Alan Grayson asked Fed Vice Chair Donald Kohn to provide the names of the banks that received $1.2 trillion since September 2008.

Kohn refused.

Last week, AIG announced $61 billion in 4th quarter 2008 losses. Economist Nouriel Roubini called it "a nontransparent, opaque and shady bailout of the AIG counterparties." Still, the Fed refused to answer questions from Democrats like Chris Dodd and Republicans like Richard Shelby -- where did the money go?

Congress needs to hear that we want answers, too: No More Dough Til We Know Where It Goes.

Sign today and we'll deliver your signature and comments to Congress:

http://action.firedoglake.com/page/s/Transparency

The petition says: "Dear Members of Congress: The public needs to know where all our money has gone. Restoring public trust is critical in getting our economy back on its feet. We ask that you move swiftly to re-regulate and bring transparency to a financial system whose rules have been written by bank lobbyists for their own benefit. No additional bank bailout funds should be approved until that happens."

We're now being told it will take another $750 billion, in addition to the original $700 billion, to bail out the banks.

Can you sign our petition today? Congress needs to know that if they demand answers to their questions, we'll support them. Click here to add your name:

http://action.firedoglake.com/page/s/Transparency

-- Jane Hamsher and the Firedoglake team

PS: Please join us live right now for a chat with economist James K. Galbraith, who is answering questions about the need for transparency at http://firedoglake.com. Hosted by Christy Hardin Smith.

We're having a series of online chats this week with experts who will be discussing the critical need for bank bailout transparency. We know everyone has a lot of questions about what's happening, so please come by and ask them:

TUESDAY 7 pm ET: Rep. Alan Grayson, (D-FL), member of the House Financial Services Committee
THURSDAY 3:30pm ET: David Cay Johnston, Pulitzer Prize-winning New York Times former reporter and author of Free Lunch: How the Wealthiest Americans Enrich Themselves at Government Expense [and Stick You with the Bill]
THURSDAY: Mark Pittman, Bloomberg News, a finance journalist who has covered the collapse. Bloomberg has filed many FOIA requests and done tremendous work seeking transparency.
FRIDAY 11am ET: Economist Rob Johnson, formerly a managing director at Soros Funds Management and chief economist of the Senate Banking Committee.

Want to support this series of chats? Bank lobbyists spent hundreds of millions of dollars lobbying Congress last year, but we depend on people like you. Chip in here: https://secure.firedoglake.com/page/contribute/TransparencyFunds09"

What Has Your Governor Been Up To Lately? Email from The Color of Change

2009-03-09T09:06:00.003-06:00

"President Obama's stimulus package provides money for states to extend unemployment benefits for people in dire need of help, but Bob Riley of Alabama, Mark Sanford of South Carolina, Rick Perry of Texas, Sarah Palin of Alaska, Haley Barbour of Mississippi, and Bobby Jindal of Louisiana--all Republican governors--are putting politics over people.3,4

All six governors have threatened to turn down these funds. Four are 2012 presidential contenders,5 and they all have a vested interest in seeing Obama fail. They're attacking the President's policies to increase their own profile and cozy up to the most die-hard conservatives.6 They also claim that taking the stimulus money would leave their states in debt when it runs out in three years. But that argument rings hollow--state legislatures could reduce benefits to pre-stimulus levels at that point.

While these governors posture, Black folks suffer the most. In all of these states, Black unemployment is at least twice that of Whites--and in Louisiana and Mississippi, the two Blackest states in the Union, the unemployment rate among Black people approaches three times that of their White neighbors.7

Tell these Republican governors to stop putting their personal and political interests above the good of all their states' citizens. Demand that they accept all of the stimulus money designated for unemployment benefits. And when you do, please ask your friends and family to do the same.

http://colorofchange.org/govs/"

Enough Already...

2009-03-07T19:23:00.005-06:00

So, I really don't want to blow my brains out. Really. I try hard not to hear the news but it just keeps sucking me in and sending me into the depths of depression and hopelessness.

Today I read a MSNBC piece about Bryan Ross, their evening news anchor, asking people to write in with some good news and he was flooded with emails from people with actual good news, stories of people doing good things to help out their neighbors and actual strangers. It wasn't very long or detailed or I would link to it. Mr. Ross will be sharing these stories starting next week so I think we should all tune in to hear it. If for no other reason than to keep from blowing our brains out.

I have totally stopped reading my reader too. It is filled with doom and gloom. So today I ventured into my reader and this is what slapped me...just the highlights, k?

From Crooks and Liars:

"Analysts increasingly view the administration's actions so far as insufficient given the scope of the problem. The stimulus package was designed to "save or create" 3.5 million jobs, according to the administration. But the nation has already lost 4.4 million jobs since the start of the recession. Many banks and other financial institutions, whose health is critical to the economy, are teetering, and the Treasury Department has yet to finalize the details of its plans to remove from their balance sheets the toxic assets dragging them down."

Then at the bottom of the article this (somebody please explain)

"The International Monetary Fund yesterday urged governments worldwide to consider additional fiscal stimulus, noting that the public sector must help prevent a collapse of confidence."

Are they trying to hook us in again, like the mortgage companies did, saying, don't worry about tomorrow, go on and spend it? Or are they speaking of the banks that are hoarding the TARP funds and not issuing credit when they should be? I'm confused.

And then there is friggin' AIG. I'm not going to link to anyone who has written a story about AIG. If you don't know the story then Google AIG and you will find out that this one company is going to bankrupt the entire world before it's finished. All I really want to know is who in the hell are they sleeping with and how in the hell can I get some of that action?

Don't even get my unemployed self started on the bleakness of the unemployment figures and my looming first loan payment. I don't even know if they will give me another forbearance. Hopefully they will.

Then there is healthcare. At this point I'm figuring I'll get screwed on that just like I got screwed with the stimulus package.

There was one good thing that happened this week, or will happen next week. From the National Women's Law Center:

The Obama Administration officially announced today that it is taking action to rescind a harmful Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) rule.

The following is a statement by Marcia D. Greenberger, Co-President of the National Women’s Law Center:

" “The Obama administration deserves great praise for its move today to rescind this harmful rule, which serves only to undermine patients’ access to vital health care services and information, and poses especially grave risks to women’s health and lives.

“Americans have made it clear that they support a commonsense approach to reproductive health care that ensures that women have access to contraception and other much-needed services and information. We look forward to working with the Obama Administration on developing and expanding health care policies that meet the needs of women and their families.”

More information and analysis of the harmful Bush Administration HHS rule is available here." They also have a great resource page here

Then there is this:

"President Obama will announce Monday that he is reversing Bush administration limits on federal financing for embryonic stem cell research as part of a pledge to separate science and politics"

I swear if I could have I would have willingly donated the embryonic stem cells from my abortions. It would have gone a long way to alleviate some of the guilt if I could have been assured they were going for research. I suspect they probably did, even without my consent.

Ok, that's it for me tonight, maybe tomorrow I'll wake up with a better attitude... :)

*edit*

Forgot one...Headline of the week:

John 'Torture' Yoo now says he'll be honest

uh, huh...oh, why the hell not, you won't be punished for any of it...

*edit*

Did I forget the ponzi/scammers and their lavish lifestyles..How To Spot a Ponzi Con Artist? Follow the Yachts

Yep, that makes me feel all friggin' warm and fuzzy this morning...

New Links

2009-03-05T10:19:00.003-06:00

I've added some new training links and a new toolkit to the Victim's Assistance Page

OMG! She Took Him Back....Rihanna, What in the H*** Are You Thinking?

2009-03-01T23:03:00.009-06:00

Click the title link for the story. I just about fell out of my chair when I read the headline and almost puked when I read the story. This 20 year old woman has the moon. She has more going for her than any other 20 year old I can think of at the moment. She's beautiful and talented, (although I have to say here if I hear "Disturbia" one more time I will be disturbed to the point of actually being committed, but that's not the point) she had the entire music world at her feet. Girl, where is your pride? Your self-respect? Kick that angry little boy to the curb and run as far away from him as you can get. I don't care what he promised you, if he did it once he will do it again and the next time you might not be so lucky, if you can call the last time, lucky.

So I've had my say. I was going to explode if I didn't say something. I think now would be a good time to go over the warning signs for domestic abusers and some other pertinent information in case you or anyone else out there might need it:

The National Domestic Abuse Hotline Memorize this number. 1 800 799 7233

Domestic Violence and Abuse: Types, Signs, Symptoms, Causes and Effects Read this page until you have it internalized

Domestic Violence Emotional Abuse Checklist This one deserves to be typed out.

"Do you have to get permission to socialize with your friends?
Are you accused of cheating on him when you leave the house to do errands, etc.?
Are you afraid to talk about certain topics unless he's in a good mood?
Does he have control over the money and monitor your spending?
Does he tell you no one else would ever want you?
Does he threaten to harm himself if you leave him?
Does he go through your purse or open your mail?
Does he make disparaging remarks about the way you look or dress?
Does he use things against you that you've confided to him in the past?
Does he sabotage your efforts to be involved in pleasant social or family event?
Does he compare you negatively to other women?
Are you nervous about being on the phone when he is around?
Is it okay to return home later than scheduled without being fearful?
Does it feel more like you have a dad than a partner?
Does he give you the 'silent treatment' when you want to talk or work things out?
Does he try to turn the children against you?
Do you feel manipulated by his kindness or gifts?
Do you feel obligated to be sexual with your partner?
Are your activities and interests looked upon as unimportant and trivial?
Does he sabotage your schedule and outside commitments?

United States Department of Justice Office of Violence Against Women: Domestic Violence This one needs to be entered here as well.

"Domestic violence can be defined as a pattern of abusive behavior in any relationship that is used by one partner to gain or maintain power and control over another intimate partner.

Domestic violence can be physical, sexual, emotional, economic, or psychological actions or threats of actions that influence another person. This includes any behaviors that intimidate, manipulate, humiliate, isolate, frighten, terrorize, coerce, threaten, blame, hurt, injure, or wound someone.

* Physical Abuse: Hitting, slapping, shoving, grabbing, pinching, biting, hair-pulling, biting, etc. Physical abuse also includes denying a partner medical care or forcing alcohol and/or drug use.

* Sexual Abuse: Coercing or attempting to coerce any sexual contact or behavior without consent. Sexual abuse includes, but is certainly not limited to marital rape, attacks on sexual parts of the body, forcing sex after physical violence has occurred, or treating one in a sexually demeaning manner.

* Emotional Abuse: Undermining an individual's sense of self-worth and/or self-esteem. This may include, but is not limited to constant criticism, diminishing one's abilities, name-calling, or damaging one's relationship with his or her children.

* Economic Abuse: Making or attempting to make an individual financially dependent by maintaining total control over financial resources, withholding one's access to money, or forbidding one's attendance at school or employment.

* Psychological Abuse: Causing fear by intimidation; threatening physical harm to self, partner, children, or partner's family or friends; destruction of pets and property; and forcing isolation from family, friends, or school and/or work.

Domestic violence can happen to anyone regardless of race, age, sexual orientation, religion, or gender. Domestic violence affects people of all socioeconomic backgrounds and education levels. Domestic violence occurs in both opposite-sex and same-sex relationships and can happen to intimate partners who are married, living together, or dating.

Domestic violence not only affects those who are abused, but also has a substantial effect on family members, friends, co-workers, other witnesses, and the community at large. Children, who grow up witnessing domestic violence, are among those seriously affected by this crime. Frequent exposure to violence in the home not only predisposes children to numerous social and physical problems, but also teaches them that violence is a normal way of life - therefore, increasing their risk of becoming society's next generation of victims and abusers.

Sources: National Domestic Violence Hotline, National Center for Victims of Crime, and WomensLaw.org."

There are more links for help on the Domestic Violence page here

Please, at the very least, recognize the type of situation you are in and arm yourself with the knowledge of how to protect yourself and how to get out should another situation arise.

Want to Know Where your Money Really Went?

2009-03-01T09:21:00.010-06:00

Have you ever noticed how, when speaking of the economy, hardly anyone ever mentions the cost of the Iraq war anymore? This post is specifically because last week the cost of the Iraq war crossed the 600 billion mark. It was a sad week. I tried to get excited about President Obama's State of the Union address. I tried to get excited about the new budget. I just couldn't because the counter was about to flip. I was sick about each passing dollar and I was sick about the talks of escalation in Afghanistan, meaning even more money being spent to fix a problem that should have had the first 600 billion spent on it rather than wasted for some private agenda. So I decided it was only right that I pay some kind of homage to the counter site itself. While I was there I found this chart:

In case you can't really see...it was 1943 when the lines crossed. There has been an ever-widening gap between individual tax and corporate tax since friggin' 1943!

So this is capitalism at it's finest? I don't think this is what the vision was when Ayn Rand spoke of true Capitalism. There was "honor", "ethics" and "morals" tantamount to her version. Believe me, I am all for free enterprise and profit and corporate growth. This is just pure out and out greed. It's been awhile since I read Ayn Rand but I think even she would be ashamed of the corporate looting of America going on presently.

How can people not see this? We (individuals) are paying in 50% of the United States total revenue while they (corporations) are paying 20%. I doubt, when it's all said and done that they are even paying that much. How can people continue to support the wingnuttia called the Republican Party who's only agenda, besides discrediting the Democratic Party, is to protect what they believe is rightfully theirs...the wealth of America that they out and out pilfered from each and every one of us?

I think Big Mama Thornton and Buddy Guy say it best...

The Hug...Have you ever seen a President do this?

2009-02-26T06:10:00.003-06:00

I have racked my brain and I can not recall ever seeing a President "hug" anyone, have you? It just pulls at the old heart strings and reaffirms to me that President Obama genuinely has a warm, nurturing spirit.

More on the Northern Trust Crap...

2009-02-25T07:48:00.002-06:00

This is an excerpt from AmericablogNews:

"TMZ has photos from LA including the Northern Trust limos for the posh golf outing. They also link to the exclusive menu for the private party they hosted. Somehow they don't get it no matter what is happening around them. The banksters from Northern Trust were rumored to have been handing out gift bags and calling them "stimulus packages." These people have no sense of public responsibility and deserve to be treated accordingly. Enough. Start firing in the executive boardroom. Today. Maybe then they will get a better sense of urgency."

Here's a rundown from TMZ:

"- Wednesday, Northern Trust hosted a fancy dinner at the Ritz followed by a performance by the group Chicago.

- Thursday, Northern Trust rented a private hangar at the Santa Monica Airport for dinner, followed by a performance by Earth, Wind & Fire.

- Saturday, Northern Trust had the entire House of Blues in West Hollywood shut down for its private party. We got the menu -- guests dined on seared salmon and petite Angus filet. Dinner was followed by a performance by none other than Sheryl Crow.

There was also a fabulous cocktail party at the Loews. And how's this for a nice touch: Female guests at the Chicago concert all got trinkets from ... TIFFANY AND CO."

Oh, it goes on and on but just in case you don't get the significance of their arrogance and how it relates....

Northern Trust laid off 450 workers in December, 4% of its workforce.

Oh and here's their response...play close attention to that last paragraph...it would be laughable if...it...just...wasn't...so...friggin...sad...

Oh, This is So Cool!

2009-02-24T15:07:00.005-06:00

Just got this email:

"For Immediate Release: February 24, 2009

Financial Services Democrats Call on Northern Trust to Repay TARP Funds

Washington, DC - House Financial Services Committee Chairman Barney Frank, along with 17 Democrats on the committee, sent a letter today to Frederick H. Waddell, the President and CEO of Northern Trust, in response to published media reports that, the company hosted a PGA golf tournament and several related parties. Democratic members of the committee “…insist that you immediately return to the federal government the equivalent of what Northern Trust frittered away on these lavish events”

Below is the text of the letter:

Mr. Frederick H. Waddell

President and Chief Executive Officer

Northern Trust

50 South LaSalle

Chicago, IL 60603

Dear Mr. Waddell:

We are dismayed and angered to learn that Northern Trust recently spent millions of dollars on a PGA golf tournament sponsorship and associated parties at the same time it has taken over $1.5 billion in federal stabilization funding under the Troubled Asset Relief Program. According to published media reports, your bank not only sponsored the Northern Trust tournament at the Riviera Country Club, but also hosted clients and employees at places like the Beverly Wilshire and Ritz Carlton hotels and gave away Tiffany souvenirs. If this is accurate, we are demanding you take corrective action.

At a time when millions of homeowners are facing foreclosure, businesses and consumers are in dire need of credit, and the government is trying to keep financial institutions – including yours – alive with billions in taxpayer funds, this behavior demonstrates extraordinary levels of irresponsibility and arrogance.

We insist that you immediately return to the federal government the equivalent of what Northern Trust frittered away on these lavish events. Federal taxpayers should not and will not stand for such abuses, and we will insist that any future Treasury support for Northern Trust be conditioned on a thorough reform of your company’s policies and practices.

We look forward to your reply and immediate reimbursement of these funds.

Sincerely,

Reps. Barney Frank, Carolyn Maloney, Brad Sherman, Dennis Moore, Wm Lacy Clay, Stephen F. Lynch, Brad Miller, Al Green, Gwen Moore, Paul W. Hodes, Keith Ellison, Charles Wilson, Bill Foster, Andre Carson, Mary Jo Kilroy, Steve Driehaus, Alan Grayson, Gary Peters

http://financialservices.house.gov/"

Can you say AMEN!

Angry Social Worker :)

2009-02-22T11:54:00.003-06:00

Now, this is funny. As usual during my morning routine, yes, even on Sundays, I check my stats. Normally, I just flit through it, unless something catches my eye. Like someone spending 30 minutes and looking at all my pages. That makes me feel like I've made a contribution and I swell with pride. Mostly, people land on my page looking for "fried cornbread" or lately, the stimulus package rehash.

The most enjoyable part of checking the stats is finding out what people type into the search engine to get to my page. This morning they typed in "Angry Social Worker" and, you guessed it, there I was at the very top of the search engine page. Go see for yourself.

It used to worry me when, even if they typed in my entire blog name, they had to wade through several pages to get to the actual link for my site. Now, not so much. Once you have made it in the "fried cornbread" arena what else can you ask for?

Now, I did not consider myself an "angry social worker" at first glance. Then I took another look at my posts. Yep, I guess I am angry or at least I write as though I am. I just feel as though we, as social workers, sometimes get used to the status quo, in a sense. We begin to feel a hopelessness after awhile and think, consciously or subconsciously, wtf? I just refuse to get to that place. So shoot me, I'm angry about all the injustices/abuses in the world and I'm angry about politicians lying to me, even the one's I love and respect and I'm angry that today, or in the next day or two, the cost of the war in Iraq counter will flip over 600 billion dollars and it was basically all for nothing. Just what did we gain with this war? If we wanted to get rid of Saddam, the CIA could have done that, God knows, getting rid of leaders we don't want in power anymore is basically their calling.

Angry Social Worker? Yeah, I have to deal with that label... :)

Comments...

2009-02-21T07:38:00.002-06:00

You know, this never ceases to amaze me. I had over 400 visitors this week thanks to my posts on the stimulus package. Yep, it was right up there with "Clay Aiken" :) Now, out of those 400 visitors, most just took what they needed and left quietly. This is ok with me because, well, you know, this is what I do...inform. It is my duty to keep you, my readers, informed.

Why is it the one's who feel compelled to call you a pinko, marxist socialist always comment? Oh, and these are the one's who take the time to look at your profile page to find out your email address so they can personally insult you...as if the comment they left weren't enough or that you would not get the point they were trying to make.

No, I'm not going to publish that comment where it was submitted, but since I know you are curious and they did take a good swipe at social workers in general while they were at it I'll publish this excerpt, so you can get pissed too. :)

zendrive says in the comment:

"Your blog should be called pinks list.

This is much bigger than demicans vs. republicrats. I know your entire life as a social worker revolves around taking from those who can to give to those who can't, but I really dont want to pay the mortgage of losers, illegal aliens and the greedy fucks who gave them loans."

zendrive says in the email:

"Nice blog. Way to support the next Marxist, socialist revolution underway in this country."

What exactly is "zen" about that? I'd be willing to bet they have a swastika tatoo somewhere....

An Explanatory Email from My Senator

2009-02-20T08:10:00.003-06:00

I got this email from Senator Roger Wicker yesterday, patiently explaining to me why he felt he could not support the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.

"Thank you for contacting me regarding the economic stimulus package recently considered by Congress. I am glad to have the benefit of your views on this issue.

There is no doubt that our nation's economy is in trouble. Just last month, 600,000 Americans lost their jobs, including many Mississippians. However, I have serious concerns that the stimulus legislation neither creates the jobs that we need to emerge from this crisis nor addresses the underlying causes of our present trouble. Instead, this package spends $1 trillion on things that will not create jobs quickly and will take decades to pay off. I have attached a recent column I wrote further detailing my concerns with the stimulus package. For the reasons I outline, I could not support the bill.

Be assured I will continue to work to address our economic troubles. Please do not hesitate to contact me if I can ever assist you.

With best wishes, I am

Sincerely Yours,
Roger F.Wicker"

The attachment:

"For Release Week of February 16, 2009

Report From Congress
By Senator Roger F. Wicker

WICKER: STIMULUS BILL IS WRONG APPROACH FOR TAXPAYERS, ECONOMY

As our economy has slowed and more Americans have lost their jobs, members of Congress and the Obama Administration have debated a plan to help provide stimulus to our economy. The recent announcement that 600,000 Americans lost their jobs last month only underscored the need for something to be done quickly to help workers get back on their feet.

Despite an agreement by leading economists that an effective stimulus bill must be targeted, temporary, and timely, Congressional Democrats last week were poised to pass a bill that could better be described as slow, unending, and unfocused. As this column was written, the House and Senate were on the verge of passing a plan that costs taxpayers at least $1 trillion on things that will do very little to create jobs. I opposed this poorly-crafted bill because I believe we could have done more to jumpstart the economy while at the same time being better protectors of taxpayers’ dollars.

TOO MUCH SPENDING
Rather than being laser-focused on job creation, the Democrats’ plan centers too heavily on welfare spending and other programs that will not create jobs. In a memo released last week, the Heritage Foundation stated that the Senate-passed version of this stimulus plan would “add nearly $800 billion in new means-tested welfare spending over the next decade.” The article went on to say that “the cost of the new welfare spending amounts, on average, to over $10,000 for each family paying income tax.”

Because of this unfocused spending approach, the non-partisan Congressional Budget Office estimates that this plan will cost taxpayers between $100,000 to $300,000 per job. As I shared with my Senate colleagues, it is hard for me to tell hard-working Mississippians that the most efficient use of their tax dollars is to spend up to $300,000 to create just one job.

In addition to the high per-job cost, this plan represents a bad investment for Mississippi taxpayers in terms of the federal funding we would receive. It has been reported that this package would mean $1 to $2 billion for our state. That means as little as one-tenth of one percent of this package would make its way to projects in Mississippi. A one-tenth of one percent return is not a good investment for Mississippi’s taxpayers, especially when all of this money will be borrowed from China and other foreign governments, adding to our already staggering $10.7 trillion national debt.

A BETTER PLAN
I supported a Republican alternative plan, sponsored by Senator John McCain of Arizona. Our plan was more focused on the housing problem, tax relief for working families and job creators, and targeted infrastructure investments. This plan, which was unfortunately defeated on a party-line 57-40 vote, was aimed at providing the boost our economy needs at half the cost of the Democratic stimulus bill.

By providing a $15,000 credit for homebuyers, our plan went right at the housing problem and would have encouraged home buying, helping stabilize the market. We also provided immediate tax relief to the working class, and targeted tax cuts to encourage small businesses to start hiring again. Finally, our alternative called for targeted spending that would have created jobs quickly by putting an emphasis on legitimate government priorities such as early investment in military equipment and facilities. These are the types of projects we know will need to be funded in the future, but would create jobs immediately if focused on now.

Almost every member of Congress supports taking action to strengthen our economy. I certainly would like to see something done. But the American people understand the stakes, and they expect us to get this right. Unfortunately, this plan fails to hit that mark by unnecessarily adding to our nation’s debt with little hope of economic gain. We simply cannot afford to make this large of a mistake."

Senator Wicker, I never cease to be amazed at the thought processes of Republicans. Please explain to me, if a person has lost their job, their medical benefits and their home, due to the economic downturn, how tax cuts on their income, a credit on the purchase of a new home, increased tax cuts for small businesses and increased military spending will benefit said person? Also, I think you need to re-check your figures on the actual monetary benefits Mississippi will receive. I refer you to this page. Personally, I can not in good conscience, believe I am defending this bill, as I will receive absolutely no benefit from it, but to say the Republican alternative would have benefited me more is ludicrous.

It's Time to Say Thanks...or Not

2009-02-18T14:44:00.002-06:00

The Coalition on Human Needs has great new pages up. Here's their latest email:

"It's time to say thanks.

This is a historic achievement - both because of what it does now and what it means for the future.

This economic recovery legislation will put people to work or keep them at work in jobs the nation needs: teaching, renovating schools, making public buildings and homes more energy efficient, maintaining roads, providing health care, modernizing information systems, caring for children, and much, much more. (See how many jobs in your state: AMERICAN RECOVERY AND REINVESTMENT ACT: STATE-BY-STATE JOBS IMPACT)

This legislation will prevent hunger and homelessness. It will help the unemployed, and put income in the hands of the poor and the near poor. It provides a lifeline to states, allowing them to prevent deep cuts in health care and education. It uses the power of the federal government to invest in our future while addressing today's harsh needs.

For more than a year, the Coalition on Human Needs has with your help put forward recommendations for a Shared Recovery. Now the nation has the makings of one. Nearly every component of our proposals has been adopted, and other proposals of great benefit to low-income people in addition to what we called for. Here's a listing of important shared recovery provisions in the new law:

Please thank your Representative and Senators who voted for the bill - and express your disappointment to those who opposed it.
We've made it easy to do - just follow these steps:

1) see how your Representative and Senators voted:

House roll call vote
Senate roll call vote: (Please note: because of his illness, Senator Kennedy missed this vote, knowing there would be enough votes for final passage in his absence. But he heroically interrupted his recuperation to vote for the bill at a critical earlier time. He emphatically deserves our thanks.)

2) If your Representative and Senators voted for the legislation, click here to send a thank you note

3) If they voted against it, click here to tell them you think they made the wrong choice

And while you're at it, send a letter to the editor about the importance of this vote:

Why we're asking you to say thanks (or to express disappointment), and to be public about it:

* The right wing is attacking this vote. They are betting on a continuing severe recession, and will blame those who have taken action to turn the economy around.
* If elected officials think that the only passion around this legislation is among opponents, they may be afraid to cast votes in the future that make similarly historic and far-reaching investments.
* Didn't your mother always tell you to say thanks? And to hold our leaders accountable? (Maybe she forgot to mention that second one - just an oversight.)

Is this legislation perfect? No - what is? But it includes vital help you and we have worked hard for. If more is needed, Congress will be far more likely to vote for it if their constituents applaud their actions."

How the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act Addresses Women’s Needs--The National Women's Law Center

2009-02-18T14:39:00.002-06:00

Click the title link to be taken to the pdf.

The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009--Senate Version

2009-02-17T18:06:00.000-06:00

*EDIT*

Apparently the googlebot is confused. If you landed on this page looking for the stimulus package and how it might impact your life, the best, easiest to understand description (if you can use those words when talking about government-speak) I can find of the actual bill that was signed today is on Nancy Pelosi's site here. The government's site totally devoted to the economic stimulus package has gone live as of today. On Recovery.gov
you can view the entire bill. I would not recommend trying to read the entire thing. The last time I checked it was well over 600 pages of dry government-speak. Just go to one of those two sites and hit the high spots. :)

*END EDIT*

It's that time again. Time to drag out the phones, widgets, or whatever you use to contact your senators and voice your opinion. Let them know that a 100% no vote by the Republicans is totally unacceptable. Tell them if they must vote no to make a statement then to vote no when it comes to the wall street fat cats instead.

The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009

Creating Jobs, Cutting Taxes and Investing in Our Country’s Future

The United States is facing its deepest economic crisis since the Great Depression, one that calls for swift, bold action. The goals of this legislation are the same as they have been from day one: to strengthen the economy now and invest in our country’s future.

This legislation will create and save jobs; help state and local governments with their budget shortfalls to prevent deep cuts in basic services such as health, education, and law enforcement; cut taxes for working families and invest in the long-term health of our economy. We do all of this with unprecedented accountability, oversight and transparency so the American people know their money is being invested responsibly.

“The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 combines two essential ingredients needed to bring our economy back to life,” said Senate Appropriations Chairman Daniel K. Inouye (D-Hawaii). “We will create four million jobs in the near-term, and invest in America’s future by rebuilding our crumbling infrastructure for the long-term. In addition, this bill includes more than $301 billion to aid state and local governments as they struggle to meet increasing demand for social services amidst plummeting tax revenues. As we address this crisis, we must never lose sight of our responsibility to avoid wasteful spending by providing strict accountability and oversight measures. We must invest this money quickly, but also wisely.”

“Millions of Americans will get back to work and our economy will get back on track with the job-creating tax cuts and smart investments in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act,” said Senate Finance Committee Chairman Max Baucus (D-Mont.). “Working families will get a financial boost, small businesses will finally catch a break, and the whole country will reap the benefits of a growing green energy sector, revitalized schools, and higher-quality health care. This bill has been carefully crafted to produce meaningful improvements to our economy in the short term, and to improve America’s fiscal strength and stability for the future.”

To accomplish these goals, The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act provides $888 billion in investments and tax cuts. Of this total, $694 billion will enter the economy by the end of Fiscal year 2010, meaning that 78 percent of the monies allocated will reach the American people by September 30, 2010, providing an immediate boost to the overall economy and creating an estimated four million jobs.

The Act provides for the following critical investments:

* Tax cuts for Working Families - $247 billion
* Job-creating Investments in Infrastructure and Science - $165 billion
* Job-creating Investments in Health - $153 billion
* Job-creating Investments in Education and Training - $138 billion
* Job-creating Investments for an Energy Independent America - $82 billion
* Job-creating Tax Cuts for Small Businesses - $21 billion
* Helping Americans Hit Hard by the Economic Crisis - $72 billion
* Law Enforcement, Oversight, Other Programs - $10 billion

Tax Cuts for Working Families include:

- $142 billion in Making Work Pay tax credits will provide ninety-five percent of American workers with up to $500 in extra cash in their paychecks; married couples filing jointly can receive up to $1000 total.

- $15 billion in tax cuts for families will give cash back to parents through an expansion of Earned Income Tax Credit for families with three or more children, additional marriage penalty relief for couples, and increased eligibility for the Refundable Child Tax Credit for lower-income families.

- $4 billion in tax cuts for homeowners will facilitate new home purchases with enhancements to the existing $7,500 homebuyer tax credit.

- $17 billion in one-time payments to seniors, disabled veterans and others will provide an immediately usable payment of $300 to seniors on Social Security, low-income recipients of Supplemental Security Income, disabled veterans and veterans on pensions, Railroad Retirement beneficiaries, and others who may not qualify for the Making Work Pay.

- $70 billion in Alternative Minimum Tax relief will protect 24 million working families from thousands of dollars in additional income taxes for 2009

Job-Creating Investments in Infrastructure and Science include:

Infrastructure Improvements

- $16 billion to repair, renovate and construct public schools in ways that will raise energy efficiency and provide greater access to information technology, and $3.5 billion to improve higher education facilities.

- $16 billion in tax credit bonds and tax-exempt bond improvements will finance job-rich projects in the public and private sectors, to build and renovate schools and to make other infrastructure improvements at the state and local level, in national recovery zones and on Native reservations.

- $9 billion for the National Telecommunications and Information Administration’s (NTIA) Broadband Technology Opportunities Program. This competitive grant funding will increase broadband access and usage in unserved and underserved areas of the Nation, which will better position the U.S. for economic growth, innovation, and job creation.

- $5.1 billion for the Department of Homeland Security to secure the homeland and promote economic activity.

- $4.6 billion in funding for the Corps of Engineers.

- $3.7 billion for VA hospital and medical facility construction and improvements, long-term care facilities for veterans, and improvements at VA national cemeteries.

- $3.4 billion for repair, restoration and improvement of public facilities at parks, forests, refuges and on other public and tribal lands.

- $3.2 billion for Facilities Sustainment, Restoration and Modernization to be used to invest in energy efficiency projects and to improve the repair and modernization of Department of Defense facilities to include Defense Health facilities.

- $2.4 billion for Department of Defense Facilities including quality of life and family-friendly military construction projects such as family housing and child care centers.

- $2.25 Billion for the HOME Investment Partnerships Program block grant to enable state and local government, in partnership with community-based organizations, to acquire, construct, and rehabilitate affordable housing and provide rental assistance to poor families.

- $110 million in tax incentives to build broadband capacity in rural and underserved areas will grow jobs in the technology sector and create economic opportunities in targeted areas

Transportation

- $27 billion is included for highway investments

- $8.4 billion for investments in public transportation.

- $5.5 billion for competitive grants to state and local governments for transportation investments.

- $1.3 billion for investments in our air transportation system.

- $3.1 billion for investments in rail transportation, including High Speed Rail.

- $830 million for repair and restoration of roads on park, forest, tribal and other public lands.

Public Housing

- $5 billion to the public housing capital fund to enable local public housing agencies to address a $32 billion backlog in capital needs -- especially those improving energy efficiency in aging buildings.

- $2.1 billion for full-year payments to owners receiving Section 8 project-based rental assistance.

- $2.25 billion for the redevelopment of abandoned and foreclosed homes.

- $1.5 billion for homeless prevention activities, which will be sent out to states, cities and local governments through the emergency shelter grant formula.

Environmental Clean-Up/Clean Water

- $6.4 billion is directed towards environmental cleanup of former weapon production and energy research sites.

- $6 billion for local clean and drinking water infrastructure improvements.

- $1.4 billion for EPA’s nationwide environmental cleanup programs, including Superfund.

- $1.4 billion to support $3.8 billion in loans and grants for needed water and waste disposal facilities in rural areas.

Science

- $1.5 billion total for NASA.

- $1.4 billion total for National Science Foundation (NSF) Research.

- $1.2 billion total for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association (NOAA).

Job-Creating Investments in Health include:

- $23.9 billion for investments and incentives in health information technology (IT) will grow jobs in the information technology sector, and will jumpstart efforts to increase the use of health IT in doctors’ offices and other medical facilities. This will reduce health care costs and improve the quality of health care for all Americans.

- $5.8 billion for prevention and wellness programs to fight preventable diseases and conditions with evidence-based strategies.

- $3.5 billion to conduct biomedical research in areas such as cancer, Alzheimer’s, heart disease and stem cells, and to improve NIH facilities.

- $1.1 billion to the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, NIH and the HHS Office of the Secretary to evaluate the relative effectiveness of different health care services and treatment options.

- $870 million to complete funding for pandemic flu preparedness.

Job-Creating Investments in Education and Training include:

- $79 billion State Fiscal Stabilization Fund includes $39 billion to local school districts and public colleges and universities, distributed through existing State and federal formulas; $15 billion to States as incentive grants as a reward for meeting key education performance measures; and $25 billion to States for other high-priority needs such as public safety and other critical services, which may include education.

- $13 billion in tax cuts for college tuition and education will help students and their families afford four years of college, with a $2,500 tax credit and the ability to purchase computers and computer technology with funds from tax-free 529 Savings Plans.

- $13 billion for Title 1 to help close the achievement gap and enable disadvantaged students to reach their potential.

- $13 billion for Special Education/IDEA to improve educational outcomes for disabled children. This level of funding will increase the Federal share of special education services to its highest level ever.

- $13.9 billion to increase the Pell Grant maximum award and to pay for increases in program costs resulting from increased eligibility and higher Pell Grant awards. The bill supports an increased Pell Grant maximum award of $281 in the 2009-2010 academic year and $400 in the 2010-2011 academic year. This aid will help 7 million students pursue postsecondary education.

- $3.4 billion for job training including State formula grants for adult, dislocated worker, and youth programs (including $1.2 billion to create up to one million summer jobs for youth).

- $108 million in extended Trade Adjustment Assistance will help businesses retool to avoid trade-related layoffs, and provide workers with income support and retraining if international trade causes job losses

Job-Creating Investments and Tax Incentives in Energy include:

- $33 billion in green energy tax incentives will grow jobs in the renewable energy sector by encouraging private-sector investments in research and production of green energy with wind, biomass, hydropower, and other renewable sources

- $6 billion for repair of federal buildings to increase energy efficiency using green technology.

- $5.4 billion in tax incentives for conservation and green energy use will encourage and reward energy efficiency and the building of alternative fueling stations, and facilitate the funding of conservation projects to improve America’s energy independence and grow jobs in these sectors as well.

- $4.6 billion for Fossil Energy research and development.

- $4.5 billion for smart-grid related activities, including work to modernize the electric grid.

- $4.2 billion for Energy Efficiency and Conservation Grants.

- $2.9 billion is available for the Weatherization Assistance Program.

- $2.6 billion for energy efficiency and renewable energy research.

- $2 billion is provided in grant funding for the manufacturing of advanced batteries systems and components and vehicle batteries that are produced in the United States.

- $1.6 billion is provided for grants to make schools and hospitals, significant users of energy, more energy efficient.

- $10 billion is provided for new loan guarantees aimed at standard renewable projects such as wind or solar projects and for electricity transmission projects.

Job-Creating Tax Cuts and Investments for Small Businesses include:

- Approximately $21 billion in business tax relief and incentives will help businesses survive in growing markets, get financing for expansion, and get the money they need for payroll and expenses. Businesses will be able to more easily write off the cost of new equipment, write off more losses if they’re hard hit economically, delay or reduce some tax payments, and cash in unused tax credits.

- Loans for Small Businesses: $730 million to stimulate lending to small businesses.

- $208 million in Work Opportunity tax incentives will increase the hiring of disabled veterans and disadvantaged youths into the workforce

Help for Workers and Families Hardest Hit by the Economic Crisis includes:

- $87 billion in increased Medicaid funding will help states to respond to rising numbers of Americans seeking health coverage through Medicaid, to balance state budgets, and to deal with other fiscal pressures brought on by the economic crisis.

- $47 billion in unemployment insurance improvements will allow Americans who lose their jobs in the economic downturn to receive an extra $25 in their weekly benefits, receive unemployment insurance longer if needed, pay fewer taxes on unemployment benefits, and get help even if they need to move to part-time work or leave work for family reasons

- $26 billion in COBRA premium assistance will help workers who lose their jobs to keep health coverage longer with a 65% subsidy for COBRA premiums

- $16.5 billion for additional Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly Food Stamps, benefits.

- $3 billion in Temporary Assistance to Needy Families funding will allow programs to better serve the country’s lowest-income families in this time of economic crisis

- $1.8 billion in Medicaid, Medicare, and Indian Health Service funds will allow Americans transitioning into the workforce from the Temporary Assistance to Needy Families program to keep health coverage through Medicaid longer, will assist low-income seniors and disabled Americans with Medicare premiums, and will help American Indians and Alaska Natives afford health care

- Child Care Development Block Grant: $2 billion to provide quality child care services for an additional 300,000 children in low-income families who increasingly are unable to afford the high cost of day care.

- Head Start & Early Head Start: $2.1 billion to allow an additional 124,000 children to participate in this program, which provides development, educational, health, nutritional, social and other activities that prepare children to succeed in school.

- State and Local Law Enforcement: $3.95 billion total to support law enforcement efforts.

Unprecedented Oversight, Accountability and Transparency

The American Recovery and Reinvestment Plan provides unprecedented oversight, accountability, and transparency to ensure that taxpayer dollars are invested effectively, efficiently, and as quickly as possible.

- Funds are distributed whenever possible through existing formulas and programs that have proven track records and accountability measures already in place.

- Numerous provisions in the bill provide for expedited but effective obligation of funds so that dollars are invested in the economy as quickly as possible.

- The Government Accountability Office and the Inspectors General are provided additional funding for auditing and investigating recovery spending.

- A new Recovery Act Accountability and Transparency Board will coordinate and conduct oversight of recovery spending and provide early warning of problems.

- A special website will provide transparency by posting information about recovery spending, including grants, contracts, and all oversight activities.

- State and local whistleblowers who report fraud and abuse are protected.

- There are no earmarks in this bill.

Posted by Ezra Klein on February 2, 2009 3:02 PM

The Obameter

2009-02-17T08:54:00.002-06:00

Personally I think it should be The Obamameter but what do I know....

Today I'm feeling pretty screwed when it comes to the stimulus package so I've looked up Obama's campaign promises and how he is doing on them. This is when I ran across the PolitiFact Site sponsored by The St. Petersburg Times. The title link will take you to the page that lists all of Obama's campaign promises. There are 510 promises and 26 pages in the list. This page has a nice little chart/scorecard that I wish they had a widget for. It looks like this only nicer:

The Obameter Scorecard

* Promise Kept 7

* Compromise 1

* Promise Broken 1

* Stalled 1

* In the Works 22

* No Action 478

I really want someone to tell me where a fully trained but apparently unemployable 54 year old white woman with no personal income, no health insurance and no assets fits into this new stimulus package? It appears upon reading that the same income levels that have always gotten help have received even more help this time around. I could have sworn during the campaign that Obama promised help for the rest of us. All I see are tax cuts, albeit expanded, for those with an income and increased benefits for those who qualify for state aid. What about those of us smack in the middle? I thought that was what all the campaign promises were about... Did I miss something? Was I having a senior moment throughout the campaign? Or am I just being to impatient? Frustrated?

I swear I'm to the point that if I can't find a job then I believe I will go on out to DHS and apply for services. Maybe when they find out I have a degree and a license, rather than give me food stamps they will give me a job...It's just an idea...they sure aren't listing those jobs on the state personnel board.

Oh, and don't think that "Making Work Pay" part of the package is anything to write home about...it's a measly $400 bucks phased in, or out, depending on how you look at it, over the course of the entire year as a tax reduction.

Ok, that's my rant for the day...

This is so Cool! The Black Cab Sessions

2009-02-16T18:46:00.003-06:00

If you feel like a little music and you are not quite sure what you're in the mood for the Black Cab Sessions Page is a great place to go to start clicking randomly. Musicians are clamboring into the back of a cab, stripped down to the basics to have one go at a song while riding around the countryside. As a big fan of acoustic music I wallowed in it :) Go on, try it, get out of your comfort zone :) Here's the about page where you can join their mailing list to be informed when there are new artists.

Tiny Cat Pants

2009-02-16T08:50:00.001-06:00

Go read Aunt B's post "I Almost Wish My Vagina Were as Mysterious and Powerful as Campfield Thinks It Is" today...it's hilarious!

Another Conversation with the Boy...

2009-02-16T07:55:00.002-06:00

Yesterday, I finally had enough strength to go brave Wal-Mart to get that $107 dollar inhaler I was prescribed. I took a shower, got dressed, picked up the boy from work knowing he had worked 7 days straight and there was no amount of pleading that would talk him into going with me, so resigned to the fact I had to go I dropped him off at home and braved it. It was amazingly not too crowded and considering I was psychotic on prednisone all went amazingly well.

So I get home, the boy meets me at the door to help me unload the stuff....kind of unusual but I didn't think anything of it at the time. Start supper and sit down at the computer...

ticktickticktick...cursor is freaking out and explorer is coming up on it's own telling me it can't find s**t...not a good sign.

Me: What's wrong with the computer?

Him: I don't know it just started doing that

Major fight with all the pages coming up, trying to get the virus scan to come up. Start the scan.

Twenty minutes later...

Me: Where did you go on the internet?

Him: I just typed the stuff in google and it started doing that.

Me: What?

Repeat

Results of the scan...Trojan, virus, recycler and a bunch of other low risk stuff.

By this time a friend of the boy's has come over to hang out.

Me: WHERE DID YOU GO ON THE INTERNET???

Him: I found this bug at the hotel today and I wanted to make sure it wasn't a bed bug. (A little explanation is necessary...The Dixie National Rodeo has been in town for two or three weeks...we refer to these people as "the horse people" but that's a different story) So I looked up "horse bugs"

Me: horse bugs?

Him: yep (oh, so innocently)

Me: and where did that take you?

Those innocent eyes crinkled up at me and he laughingly said

"To a HORSE PORN SITE"

Me: HORSE PORN??? What in the hell is horse porn? you didn't click on it did you?

Him: (still laughing) yes I did, I couldn't help it (rolling off the bed onto the floor) (friend starts mocking and making fun of him)It's a site showing horses having sex.

Me: Why didn't you just say that?

Him: I didn't want to admit it...I knew I would never live it down

At this point I had to laugh too, even though I knew I would be working on getting rid of whatever "Horse Porn" put on my computer for days to come, because, you know what? I probably would have clicked on it myself mainly because friggin "Horse Porn" would have never in a million years crossed my mind....some people are just really twisted, huh?

Use Dogpile for Your Search. Help Animals in Need!

2009-02-15T18:51:00.001-06:00