Saturday, May 06, 2006

Weekly 5/6/06 - 5

Salon Weekly




~ In 4  Color Coded Sections
:

  • Table Notes
  • Announcements
  • Articles
  • Books, Reviews, Magazines






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5/6/06  12:00 pm.  From Ellen

    The Salon Monday was crazy.  I'll tell  you about it in a minute.   I am sitting on my front porch steps in the middle of a yard sale.  That's crazy, too.  I had Steve Jakubiec here last night (great computer tech/video editor/web designer) installing the new hard drive in this laptop computer ... and that was crazy because while it doesn't whine a high pitched annoying sound, neither does it work.  He put back in the old hard drive.  But the networking between the computers doesn't work this morning. (p.s. but works now!  eb) I don't know about you but I feel absolutely crazy when my computer system isn't working right.  Part of my brain.  
    They say the dollar is sliding, that China owns most of our ... what?  debt?  That human beings have ruinated the environment (sic) and our oil based way of life is a house of cards about to tumble.  How crazy is that?  I hear that the president of the United States is crazy and wants to wreak nuclear war on Iran so as to save us from Iran's nuclear threat.  
    Last week I went to a talk at the Zen Center in Oakley.  The speaker said, "Just because we are Buddhists, don't think we should just sit on our cushions seeking peace of mind and forget about the world going to hell."  Well.  This morning I went to the Dharma Center in Northside and read a suttra (sutta) about the root of all suffering being desire and attachment.  We decided Mr. Sidartha Gotama ("Sid") was saying you can't help caring and trying but you don't want to get mad and say, "I can't accept this!"  And you don't want to say, "Oh I don't care,  I am avoiding dukkah!"   And  you don't want to think that because you don't have dispassionate boddichitta mind right now, there is no point in sitting and studying.  It's a process.  
    Oh Well.
    On  Monday, at the table, I was on the verge of being disturbed.  (Much dukkah.)  Bob was trying to present about Life Wave patches he thinks are a miracle for health, and I was afraid the table would be discourteous... Folks were outraged about various goings on in our society, and passion was flying around the room.  Sigh.  I like spirited discussion, but ...  I like order.  Sanity.  
    As Bob Dylan said, "High water everywhere."  
    Let there be music, cast all your votes for dancing, and may good people do our best.
    Love,
    ellen

Section One: Table Notes
....
...............................................................................................................................................................................................


( PLEASE NOTE: These notes have not been edited by the speakers and should not be taken as an accurate expression of the speakers’ meanings.  ellen)

At the Table on Monday,   1 May 2006: David Rosenberg, Spencer Konicov, Shari Able, Mike Murphy, Judy Cirillo, Marvin Kraus, Gerry Kraus, Mr. G., Bev Tenkman, Linda Doyle, Ilya Stien, Vlasta Molak, Pauline Smolin, Lyn Haber, Rthie Halicks, Bob Peterson, Ellen Bierhorst, Barbara Faiman.  Chad Benjamin Potter.
Julia Yardin, Steve Sunderland, Bill Messer, Neil Anderson
 

TABLE ANNOUNCEMENTS

Vlasta: Wed. City Council meeting.  I have yet to hear from any of them, so I will give my usual 2 minute spiel; I ask other salonistas to come and give me their two minutes.

Judy: I've been volunteering with cornerstone loan fund.  In the heart of OTR, corner Liberty and Green...  built a gated community for low income people. Walkways, green grass, beautiful apts.  Residents help to mow grass, etc.  ... I am v. impressed.  Always interested in people helping. "St. Anthony Village".

Spencer: I have a tenant in my apt building.  A widowed woman, with two children.  Ran  rototiller, planted perennials.  Scrubbed basement floor...

Mike: I changed the poem I read two weeks ago.  Can I read it?  Two?

Spencer: the dollar is falling rapidly in value.  Imports will escallate in price.  Oil will go up.  
Oil is at peak production...no more can be produced   per day.  In China gas is being subsidized.  

Pauline: I don't think the dollar is sliding.
Spencer:  Canada, France, euro are all going up.  All "floating" currencies.  
Davie: how is it that we can say China's currency is undervalued if it is linked with ours.  ?
Spencer:  they have so  many American dollars.  They keep theirs low so that we will buy more of their goods.  ... China is buying billions of dollars worth of bonds.  

 


TOPICS NOMINATED FOR DISCUSSION
Gerry: some forces trying to discourage votes for Eliz. Motter
Vlasta:  report of my trip to the east coast.
Shari: the paying and not paying of immigrant workers in New Orleans.
Bob on Lifewave.


Gerry: Eliz. Motter is running for the woman's seat to the Ohio state dem. committee.  They choose the state demo. candidates.  Over the weekend, the chair of the Ham. Co. Dems Tim Burke send an email asking Cathy Goedl be supported, not Elizabeth.  Because Eliz.  supported Smitherman and Kraus for city council, and they were not endorsed Dems.   Set up a flurry of emails.  Eliz. has been a loyal dem. worker for years.  

Bob     Peterson bobpeterson@ viawestm.net
lifewave.com/BobP
 on LifeWave:

    came across this a month ago.  I am a ret. airline pilot.  ... this is software for the human body.  A  new concept; metabolism increase, pain relief, sleep disorders help.  
    I get excieted a bout this.  Helped me endure sleep disruption last week.
    Nothing enters the body.  No drugs.  No magnets.  ... I lost 8 lbs. first week, noticed increased stamina.  
    Holistic veterinarian did a study on 140 horses.  worked on them.  PET scan affirmed that pain was reduced 95%.  
    MBA athletes are using these.  UCLA swim team using them.
    constructed of organic materials.  Registered as class one medical device.  
    30 double blind studies have been run.
    Journals publication is forthcoming.
    A month supply $70.  
www.winonlinetoday.com

works on chi, acupuncture points.  
==============
SHARI: southern poverty law center.   I am writing a s tory a play about a town in Louisiana.  ... so I have been doing research on Katrina.  I learned that the  souther pov law center is pressing two suits. One against belfor USA Inc. who hires immigrants to clean up New Orleans but does not  pay them.  Belfor USA Inc., a major disaster relief organization.  
The fed. gov't pays belfor USA Inc. who brings in immigrants and thenm does not pay above minimum wage.  IN many cases they are not paid at all.  

David I heard about the same thing happening in the agriculture sector.  The way they  go around the law is to have a sub contractor.  The farmer does not  hire the immigrant labor, but rather hires the subcontractor who then hires the immigrant labor.   ...

Julia  I heard that belfor USA Inc. was responsible for Katrina survivors being evicted from their homes so that the immigrants could be located there.  A couple of them were sent to Cinti.  and  housed by the Franciscans.  These were in their seventies!
================
Gerry:  what about the Motter issue.  
Spencer: they are saying you should reward   someone who has been loyal to the party.
Linda: I think Mike is right.  Is it principles or loyalty to the authority structure?
Marvin:   we are supposed to have a d emocracy.  Here at the table we have often discussed what is wrong with the Democratic party.  We criticize them for not sticking to issues.
So what do  you do if the party is not sticking its neck out  on issues  you care about.   ?  change from within or f rom without.  
Party loyalty implies that you have to accept the party line, right or wrong.  

David:  could we have access to the email list that burke used so we could email a different opinion to to the party captains.
Gerry:  I just happen to have the email.  "To HCDP"....  (the email yahoo group)
David:  Most of us are dissatisfied with the party positions.  the best shot we have to be influential is to work with or talk to the dem. party locally, or the charter party locally, and let them know we are dissatisfied with the quality  of the candidates they are putting forward.  
    Incidentally, these sector captains are just anyone who holds up their hand at a meeting.  It is not a prestiegious job.
    If we want decent democrats running for office we have to influence the dem. party.  
We have no true progressives.

Vlasta:  to hell with the party line...  vote for the best person.  

Ilya: why is America stuck with only two parties.

Mr. G: remember who put Bush inj the White House.  Nader.  (He explained it is not Nader who is wrong; the third party idea.)
(outcry)
Pauline:  I agree with Mr. G.

Mr. G:  the first election is what made the second election of Bush.  Nader was a bigt  factor in the first election.  
As much as I love Nader I couldn't vote for him.

Bill:  Did you ever see Nader in a three party debate?  No.  

Chad:  We need a real third party.

Bill: my concern in Ham. Co. .. are there really t wo parties?  We have a lot of uncontested elections.  that's not democracy.

Gerry: when you go to the polls tomorrow,  you will be asked if you want a Dem or a Rep.  ballot.  

Pauline:  I have always been registered as a Dem, I thought I had to take a Dem. ballot.

(Table: No you could ask for a Rep. ballot.)
Marvin:  but then the next  year you 'd have to get a Rep. ballot or else wait a period of years.

Mike:  how do you have fair elections when it is really the money trail that determines the elections.   Unless we have economic democracy, we  don't really have political democracy.  

==========
Vlasta's trip to East Coast

    I first went to visit my son at Curtis music schl. in Philadelphia.  ... Ilya and I drove.  ... organization of "sustainable Croatia" course in Dubrovnik; I was r ecruiting faculty.  Yale,  MIT, Harvard.  At Harvard I stumbled upon a confrrence in the law school about innocent people getting convicted.  Discussing how to change the legal system.
I thought Why don't we get this much brain power to work on indicting and convicting th is imposter in the White House.
=================

Spencer: I went to Boca Ratan to see my uncle who has survived 15 years with congestive heart failure.  He has convinced me, ... the one person often neglected in a health chain is the wise pharmacist.  They are paid the least, but they can keep you alive the longest.  I have seen him asking the nurses to show him the  drug brochure of what  he is getting.  ... he  reads the report on the drug and tells the  doc. he won't take it because it kills people.  ... the Doc. had not read the report.  

Spencer: I have a tenant in my apt building.  A widowed woman, with two children.  Ran  rototiller, planted perennials.  Scrubbed basement floor...

Mike: I changed the poem I read two weeks ago.  Can I read it?  Two?

Vlasta: resuming my topic, ... I went back to my alma mater Townsend Medical Center, where a faculty member won a Nobel PLrize.

Julia:  on impeaching bush, ... lousy political system...  On June 2, Operation Divine Wrath, tons of gas will be  exploded     6 0 miles from Los Vegas  by the military.  RandiRhodes.com
tells the  scoop.  the test is to test the bunker.


Bill M:  I went to NJ and got sick and have been in the hospital.  Medical emergency ...  food poisoning.  ER.  GI tube.  12" incision.  Horrible experience.  they didn't find anything out.  took my appendix out.  Everything  from wonderfrul nurses to absolute saddist to   stupid and unlistening.  ... the worst blow is since I  got back;  the last three bills ...   one for $80,000 ... I already had one for $20,000.  
    I was in hospital 11 days.  what about people  who have to be there for longer.  
    the medical care system is an absolute catastrophe.
    this is more than double my entire life savings.

Bev:  put your house in some one else's name.  I had the same thing happen.  I was going to have minor surgery, and they said I had a  bad heart.  ... huge bill... ... it is on my credit report now, but I am not going to pay.


Steve:  I am sorry to hear that.  Amazing story.  We might be able to help.  
    Chad and I were at a conf. this weekend on peace and hunger. And Vlasta.  We organized about 25 teams of students who will partner with the free store and house of bread in Dayton.  to help with the hungry.  
    Restored my faith in American college students; they listened, they took action.  40   people walked f rom UC to Washington Park. ... People in wheelchairs...


~ end of table notes ~

Hugs to everyone,
Ellen





Section Two: Announcements




4/22
Intercommunity Justice and Peace Center (Sr. Alice Gerteman): List of Juicy Events

Lots going on folks! Tonight SOS ART gets kicked off tonight at the Mockbee as does the Just Peacemakers Seminar. Tomorrow Nnght is the Gala for the Muses. April 23 and May 1 are opportunities to support the immigrant rights movement.  April 29 brings lots of opportunities, a chance to hear from a Christian Peacemaker Team member,  the kick-off for a 30 day experiment for peace, a major antiwar mobilization in NYC, an exciting healthcare community meeting, and more. April 30 is a local interfaith prayer service for Darfur, May 8-10 brings an exciting workshop to Cincinnati "Organizing for Social Change" . . .Lots happening....
Browse through the list and take a look!!!


YOGA NIDRA RELAXATION & MEDITATION
[Every Sunday @ 6-7:15 PM]: Free & open to all. $3 donation welcomed.  At the Kula Center, 110 E 8th Street, Newport, KY 41071.  More info from Rob @ 859.441.4144 &
robburns1008@yahoo.com.

APRIL 22- MAY 7, 2006
SOS ART
An art event of sociopolitical expression for peace and justice April 21 - May 7, 2006 The Mockbee, 2260 Central Pkwy, Cincinnati (at Brighton)
Scroll down to the end of email for Complete listing of Program of Events (FREE and Open to the Public) For more information, please contact:
saad.ghosn@uc.edu


 MAY 8-10
MIDWEST ACADEMY: ORGANIZING FOR SOCIAL JUSTICE
The Community Police Partnering Center is sponsoring a comprehensive training on “Organizing for Social Justice” from Monday, May 8th to Wednesday, May 10th.  The training will be provided by the Midwest Academy of Chicago, a national training institute that has trained over twenty-five thousand grassroots activists from hundreds of organizations and coalitions.  By the end of the 3-day training, participants will be better able to identify an issue, develop strategy to win the issue, to recruit volunteers, to build coalitions, and to effectively broadcast a message to the media.  

The comprehensive training will cost $450 per seat (the same training in Chicago would cost $675) and breakfast and lunch are included.  It will be held at the First Unitarian Church, which is located at the corner of Reading Road and Linton in Avondale.  The due date for registration is May 3rd.  Please contact Amy Krings of the Community Police Partnering Center at 559 – 5450 or
akrings@gcul.org if you have any additional questions.  

May 11-14, 2006
THE SILENCE OF THE DEAD, THE VOICES OF THE LIVING:
T A Witness to End the War in Iraq at the National Mall in Washington, D.C. and across the United States
On Mother's Day weekend, you are invited to join members and supporters of the American Friends Service Committee, Gold Star Families for Peace, Gold Star Families Speak Out, Iraq Veterans Against the War, Military Families Speak Out, September 11th Families for Peaceful Tomorrows, and Veterans for Peace, who will gather for four days of witness in Washington, D.C. (and insites around the country) to call for an end to the Iraq War.
Eyes Wide Open: The Human Cost of the Iraq War, the American Friends Service Committee's touring exhibit (eyes.afsc.org) that honors the lives lost in Iraq will return to Washington, D.C. for these days of witness

May 11-12 2006
INTERNATIONAL CONSCIENTIOUS OBJECTORS STRATEGY SESSION
 New York City, www.operationrefusewar.org Bringing together conscientious objectors from across the globe, this intimate session will focus on building international strategies for supporting the right to refuse to kill. Please contact us for more information about participation.

MAY 13-14 2006
OPERATION REFUSE WAR: AN INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE OF RESISTERS TO GLOBAL WAR
Washington DC, Operation Refuse War will be an opportunity for conscientious objectors, anti-war activists, and military families to come together to share strategies and build community. See www.operationrefusewar.org for workshop topics

May 13, 9:30 am – 4:30 pm
MOVING FROM CONTROL TO COMPASSION IN A VIOLENT WORLD
Led by Michael Crosby, OFM Cap
Notre Dame Spirituality Center, 701 E. Columbia Ave., Reading, Ohio

MAY 17-20
SPIRITUAL ACTIVISM CONFERENCE
Countering the Religious Right with a Spiritual Left, All Souls Unitarian Church in Washington, DC
It will take a very different kind of movement—one founded on and giving central focus to a spiritual vision--to create a real alternative to the political Right, to the fundamentalists (religious and political), and to our society’s ethos of selfishness, materialism, and cynicism. We seek to create that alternative. We are a community of people from many faiths and traditions, called together by TIKKUN magazine and its vision of healing and transforming our world. Hear Joan Chittister, Cornel West, Rabbi Michael Lerner, Jim Wallis, Barak Obama and many, many more.
Tuition ranges from $50 to $380 based on income
Register online at www.tikkun.org or call 510-528-6250

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

SOS ART 2006  
An art event of sociopolitical expression for peace and justice April 21 - May 7, 2006 The Mockbee, 2260 Central Pkwy, Cincinnati (at Brighton)
Program of Events (FREE and Open to the Public)
...
...
Sunday May 7
4:00pm: Wrap up of event; Artists’ feedback and discussion
5:00pm: Closing reception with music by “Entheos”

Art Gallery Hours:
Tuesday - Thursday: 6:00 - 9:00pm
Friday and Saturday: 7:00pm - 12:00am
Sunday: 3:00 - 6:00pm

For more information, please contact:
saad.ghosn@uc.edu

Wednesday 10 May
(From Ellen:  I would like to check t his out.  The four winds academy  is a project of Vivien Schapera, director of the Alexander Technique  training program and renowned A.T. Teacher.  This might be good.   The Four Winds Academy sponsored the recent tri state Crystals expo, and does a lot of “new age” type stuff.)

FourWinds Academy

Current Room Meditation (Community Healing Meditation)

Wednesday May 10th at FourWinds Academy (Please note this date has been changed from Thursday, May 11th)
7 to 9:00 PM

Lucy Morris and Paula Sellars, of Phoenix Possibilities and Cliff Jumping ®, recently traveled to see the healer, John of God. Inspired by Lucy's powerful sharing of her experiences, we will be holding a monthly community meditation at FourWinds Academy . No fee, voluntary donations gratefully accepted.

Please Note: There will be an explanatory introduction and then the Meditation will begin at approximately 7:20pm. Once the meditation begins, the current will be broken if you enter the room. Please let us know if you are coming, so that we don't begin without you.

RSVP: 513-542-4400
http://www.4windsacademy.org/ClassesJohnofGodMorris.htm

FourWinds Academy admits students of any race, color and national or ethnic origin.
Fundraising ID #31296

Subscribe / Unsubscribe
http://www.4windsacademy.org/Untitled-4ASubscribe.htm
http://www.4windsacademy.org/Untitled-4AUNSubscribe.htm

FourWinds Academy
157 Crossgate Drive Crossgate Square Cincinnati OH 45236


RSVP by May 10
You are invited to

A Small Group ( ~ Peter Block)
Intensive Learning
Opportunity

Saturday, May 20, 2006
9:00AM-4:00PM
Milford Spiritual Center
5361 South Milford Road
Milford, Ohio

v  The only requirements to participate are that you must have attended a complete Civic Engagement Series or one of Peter’s all day events and that you must be committed to changing the public conversation.
v   The facility and lunch costs will be equally divided among all participants. It should be no more than $30/person.
v
  Lunch will be provided by the Center. We ask that everyone bring a small snack or beverages for the day. The details will be worked out once we know who will be participating.

An Intensive is a full day of community practice of people who want to deepen their understanding of engagement. This is for those who would like to co-lead the engagement series, and take a greater role in bringing the ideas of engagement into the community.
This group will work with Peter to self design its own learning process and join in the facilitation and leadership of restorative activities, including A Small Group’s volunteer projects.

v If you are interested in attending, please RSVP to cert@fuse.net <mailto:cert@fuse.net>  by Wednesday, May 10th.
v   Please call me at 451-0166 if you have any questions.



Collette Thompson
Project Manager
Peter Block's Office
3555 Werk Road
Cincinnati, Ohio  45248

513-451-0166 office
513-451-1659 fax
513-607-8346 cell



May offerings by Jack Armstrong and colleagues at WholeCare Chiropractic in Blue Ash.  (I don’t know the other folks, but Jack has been my chiropractor for 15 years; he’s a true healer.  Great guy.)

  • Wed. May 10: free lecture and Demo: Yuen Method with Vivian Rust 7 pm.  “See the pain disappear.”
  • May 20, Sat.: Usui Reiki Levil I trining with JoAnn Utley 9-5, $125.  Call 520-777-3865
  • 24 May, Wed: Free Lecutre: “Purification for Detox and Weight Loss” with Dr. Mike Rengert, 7 – 9 pm.  489-9515 to register.
  • Thurs 25 May, 6:30 pm: Hands-on Electromagnetic technique #1, JoAnn Utlery 502-777-3865
  • Fri. 26 May Free Lecture, Jack Armstrong and Lisa James: “the passion of gratitude”.  Www.passionasmedicine.com



5/11
Hearts & Minds Tour
Six Ohio Cities May 9-11

"INLAWS & OUTLAWS"

A new
film by Drew Emery gets past all the rhetoric
about the gay marriage debate
to capture the heart of the matter:  it's about love.
Everybody has a story to tell about meeting their
mate, deciding to commit and struggling with the ups
and downs of a long-term (or not-so-long-term) relationship.
By weaving together a series of refreshingly honest interviews,
"Inlaws & Outlaws" takes a humorous and wide-angled look
at real relationships of all shapes and sizes.  Whether straight or
gay, young or old, coupled or single, by the end, you'll be rooting
for them all...and falling in love with love.

Ada/Lima
Tues., May 9, 6:30 p.m.
Ohio Northern University

Cleveland
Wed., May 10, 7:00 p.m.
Cedar Lee Theatre

Cincinnati
Thurs., May 11, 7:00 p.m.
Main Street Cinema
University of Cincinnati

Columbus
Thurs., May 11, 7:00 p.m.
Drexel Gateway Theatre

Dayton
Thurs., May 11, 7:00 p.m.
The Neon

Yellow Springs
Thurs., May 11, 7:00 p.m.
Little Art Theatre

NOTE:  TICKETS MUST BE PURCHASED IN ADVANCE
THROUGH EQUALITY OHIO
www.equalityohio.org



5/17   SPIRITUAL PROGRESSIVES CONFERENCE:  THE RELIGIOUS LEFT ARISES?
Dear Friend,
I would like your help in getting word out to the largest email lists to which you have access (both personal and organizational) about the
Spiritual Activism conference that will be held in Washington, D.C. May 17-20, 2006. The conference is the first East Coast appearance for the Network of Spiritual Progressives, co-chaired by me, Benedictine Sister Joan Chittister, and professor of African American studies and Religion at Princeton U. Cornel West. I'm sorry I have to reach you through this impersonal note—but  I don't know how else to do this.

The Network of Spiritual Progressives has 3 goals:

1. to challenge the misuse of God and religion by the Religious Right to justify war and militarism, cuts in programs for the poor and powerless in order to justify cuts in taxes for the rich, assaults on human rights and civil liberties, and destruction oaf the separation of church and state;

2. to challenge the religio-phobia and hostility toward religious and spiritual people that appears in some sections of liberal and progressive culture, and to help the Left distinguish
between reactionary forms of religion and the progressives forms that it took with Martin Luther King, Jr., William Sloan Coffin, Abraham Joshua Heschel and many others. and to build a new spiritual progressive politics not only for religious people, but also for those who do not believe in God but are “spiritual but NOT religious”

3. to seek a New Bottom Line in the Western world so that institutions get judged efficient, rational or productive not only to the extent that they maximize money or power, but also to the extent that they maximize love and caring, kindness and generosity, ethically and ecologically sensitive behavior, and enhance our capacities to respond to other human beings as manifestations of the sacred and inherently valuable and to be respected, and enhance our capacities to respond to the universe with awe, wonder and radical amazement at the grandeur of all that is.

This is the ground floor of building a new kind of paradigm for progressive politics, and it could have a major impact in making the liberal and progressive forces far more successful in healing and transforming American society. As I’ve shown in my new book
The Left Hand of God: Taking Back our Country from the Religious Right, many people agree with the Left on specific issues but still end up feeling that their greatest pain is the deprivation of love, a sense of meaning in work, and a feeling that they are surrounded by materialism, selfishness, and moral insensitivity, that their children are subjected to sexual pressures before they are old enough to handle them, and that the Left seems oblivious to these kinds of issues and only addresses economic entitlements and political rights.

We in the NSP (the Network of Spiritual Progressives) care very much about eliminating poverty, fighting for equal rights, ending the war in Iraq and the militarist assumptions that led to it, but that these important struggles will not be won until the Left also seems to care about these other “meaning” issues in the lives of many Americans. Moreover, the Left is only clear on what it is against, but rarely has it communicated clearly what it is for. That’s why we are taking our demand for a New Bottom Line to the Congress and the media May 17-20—along with a detailed SPIRITUAL COVENANT WITH AMERICA that is meant to provide a positive vision of what a progressive spiritual politics is about (you can read it fully explicated in
The Left Hand of God, which, I’m happy to say, has become a national best-seller since it was published by Harpers in February).

The spiritual activism conference will be a unique blending of progressive religious people with progressive “spiritual but not religious” people. Among the presenters, besides me,
Cornel West and Sister Joan Chittister: Jim Wallis (progressive Evangelical editor of Sojourners and author, God’s Politics), Cindy Sheehan (mother of U.S. solider killed in Iraq war), Episcopal ArchDeacon Michael Kendall, Marie Denis (Fellowship of Reconciliation), Rev. William Sinkford (national president, Unitarian Universalist Association), Rev. Joan Campbell (Chautauqua Institute), Harry Knox (Human Rights Campaign), Rev. Penny Nixon (Metropolitan Church, San Francisco), Rabbi Brain Walt (national chair, Rabbis for Human Rights), Seyyed Hossein Nasr (author, The Heart of Islam: Enduring Values for Humanity), Congresswoman Lynn Woolsey (chair, Progressive Caucus, U.S. House of Representatives), Shaikh Kabir Helminski (Sufi teacher), Svi Shapiro (author of Beyond Liberalism and Excellence: Reconstructing the Public Discourse on Education), Rev. Ama Zenya (United Church of Christ), John Dear S.J. (Catholic non-violence activist), Rev. Lennox Yearwood (Progressive Democrats of America), Robert Thurman (Buddhist teacher and author The Jewel Tree of Tibet), Jonathan Granoff (chair, American Bar Association committee on disarmament), Rev. Lynice Pinkard (United Church of Christ), Bill Meadows (national chair, Wildlife Association), Enola Aird, Katrina Vanden Heuvel (editor, The Nation), Christopher Hedges (former NY Times reporter and author: War is a Force that Gives Us Meaning), Peter Gabel (associate editor of Tikkun and professor of law, New College of California), Thea Levkowitz (Religion and the Environment), Rev. Tony Campolo (Evangelical teacher), Holly Near (progressive music), Michael Bader (psychoanalyst), Michael Posner (human rights), Arthur Waskow (Shalom Center), Rev. Donna Schaper, Nanette Schorr, Rabbi Debora Kohn,  Barbara Coombs Lee, Enola Aird, Rev. Bob Edgar (chair, National Council of Churches), Rev. Debora Johnson, John Seed, Paul Wapner, Mary Darling, Rev. Donna Schapper, Harvey Cox, Janet Chisholm, Roshi Bernie Glassman, Rev. Glenn Harold Stassen, Rev. Paul Smith, Çharlene Spretnak, David Abrams
Rev. Robert Hardies & Rev. Louise Green (All Souls Unitarian church), and many more.

Even if you can’t come to the conference, you can join as a dues paying member the Network of Spiritual Progressives (NSP) and help us out financially, or even help us build a local chapter in your area. For information on registering for the conference or joining the NSP: www.spiritualprogressives.org or 510 644 1200 (between 9:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. Pacific Daylight Time).

I hope you personally will come, or join, and I’d particularly appreciate it if you’d send this note to everyone you know, and in your own name urge them to come as well..

Many blessings,

Rabbi Michael Lerner
Editor, Tikkun, rabbi of Beyt Tikkun synagogue in San Francisco, and author, The Left Hand of God
RabbiLerner@Tikkun.org



................................................................................................................................................................................................................

4/1
Seriously, Stephen is the best computer handler I ever saw.  Highest recommendation for him to serve as your new Computer Consultant.  Will come to your home.  Extremely reasonable rates.  Ellen
The Savior has Come and his name is Steve.”

The Prince of Computer Geeks
Can rescue you, too, from the frightening purgatory of computer non-functionality.
Such low rates!  Such a mensch!  Such speed!  Such command.
I am immensely relieved.  ellen

All platforms: Windows, Mac, Linux.
Video editing
Web page design
Up to the minute up-to-date
...and even a nice guy.  
<
stephenJ@inexistence.org>
513-251-9620
Steve Jakubiec
(pronounced ja-COO-bik)





13 May
“I Love the 80’s” PARTY INVITATION

When:  
Saturday May 13, 2006 7pm - Midnight
Where:  In Clifton - St. John’s  320 Resor Ave. Cincinnati, OH  45220
Why:  Fun, Friends and Raise $$ for Tristate Womonfest
Who:  Everyone 21 years old and over
How Much:  $25 includes:  food, beer, wine, games, contests, music and fun

More details can be found on our website:  
www.tristatewomonfest.com <http://www.tristatewomonfest.com/>
or by calling 513-545-3535 or email info@tristatewomonfest.com <mailto:info@tristatewomonfest.com>

Can’t make the Party but still want to support the fest?  
à
       Enter our BIG RAFFLE - $20 per ticket – only 100 tickets sold – winner will receive $1,000
à
       Donate a prize to be given away at the party

    (What is  Womonfest?  an all weekend all-women outdoor music, crafts, group discussion, music performances festival to be revived this summer.  Cool.)


5/18 thurs.  Lecture on Foreign Affairs

Subject: World Affairs Council invites you on May 18th
 
"Democracy Promotion"
a presentation and audience dialogue with
Christopher Preble, PhD Director of Foreign Policy Studies,

The Cato Institute in Washington, D.C.
 

Christopher Preble will describe the U.S. government's attempts to promote democracy
around the world
, reviewing the history of democracy promotion, exploring results of some very recent efforts
to export democracy in places such as Afghanistan and Iraq and then presenting some of the problems and prospects for this type of activity going forward.


Join in audience dialogue with Dr. Preble as he then shares an alternative framework for promoting democracy, one that relies on individual initiative and person-to-person contacts among and between private citizens in order to build institutions of civic society.


Thursday, May 18th, 2006,
Raymond Walters College of the University of Cincinnati College Auditorium 119 9555 Plainfield Road, Blue Ash, OH
Coffee / Social: 6:30 pm - 7:00 pm
Presentation/Audience Dialogue: 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Free to members and the public


Co-Sponsors:
The Dorothy Steiner Fund of the League of Women Voters of the Cincinnati Area
Raymond Walters College
Raymond Walters College Department of History
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Coming...


Wednesday, July 12th, 2006 with the Cincinnati Art Museum..
"International Art Theft" with FBI Agent Bob Wittman


- Global Forum Luncheon at the Bankers Club
- Evening Presentation and Audience Dialogue at the Cincinnai Art Museum


August 31st - September 1st, 2006
HE Sir Emyr Jones Parry (2006 Great Decisions Speaker)
The Permanent Representative of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland to the United Nations


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
MEMBERSHIP PROMOTION:
Need another reason to renew your membership or join the World Affairs Council? Enjoy the Arts/START is your passport to the arts. Members receive free and discounted tickets to the area’s arts organizations, plus special member events, discounted movie tickets, and more!


To receive the 25% discount, call 621.4700 and mention that you are a Global Center member, or follow this link. http://etastart.com/eta/special/wac.html Offer good until July 31, 2006.


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS AND INTERNS...
Accounting, Publicity, Database Management, Back-office Support, Event Preparation.....
Please e-mail or give us a call with your interests to become ACTIVE in an exciting way!
1 513-621-2320 and wacgc@globalcincinnati.org


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Your World Affairs Council with the International Visitors Council
at the Global Center of Greater Cincinnati
105 East Fourth Street, Suite 510   Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
1 513-621-2320 and wacgc@globalcincinnati.org


June 9  
The Cincinnati Earth Institute would like to make you aware of the following events related to its discussion course topics of simple living, sustainability, sense of place and globalization. Event details follow the bullet points immediately below.  


-- Julia Butterfly Hill Talk - Friday, June 9th followed by a Saturday, June 10th workshop on eco-villages with locations and times to be determined - Julia became the “green heroine” and a most admired environmentalist to the young for her successful 2-year stay 180 feet up in a 1,000 year old Redwood named Luna in an effort to protect it.

-- 3rd Annual Cincinnati Great Outdoor Weekend - Saturday and Sunday, September 23rd & 24th, 2006 - the Great Outdoor Weekend has been designed to provide a diverse sampling of the best nature and environmental groups and activities in the Greater Cincinnati Region.
 



FURTHER EVENT DETAILS:


Julia Butterfly Hill Talk & Workshop
Date: Talk on Friday evening, June 9th and Eco-Village workshop on Saturday, June 10th; times to be determined
Location: to be determined
Registration: call Imago at 513-921-5124
Cost: none but free-will offering welcomed
Description: Julia will discuss her “green” activism and her 2-year stay 180 feet up in a 1,000 year old Redwood named Luna in an effort to protect it.  Julia exudes passion for nature and its beauty and has been a most popular spokesperson for protecting our Earth and its diversity.  Saturday’s eco-village workshop will feature representatives from four eco-villages (2 in existence and 2 that are in the planning stages).  This will be a good opportunity to learn more about the eco-village concept, how they preserve the planet and its diversity, and promote a more sustainable lifestyle.
More Information:  Contact Jim Schenk at 921-1932 or jschenk@imagoearth.org.


3rd Annual Cincinnati Great Outdoor Weekend
Date: Saturday and Sunday, September 23 & 24, 2006. Visit event website or see event brochure for specific program times and locations.
Location: Various sites throughout the Greater Cincinnati Region
Description: FREE and OPEN TO ALL! The Great Outdoor Weekend has been designed to provide a diverse sampling of the best nature and environmental groups and activities in the Greater Cincinnati Region.
More Information: Visit www.CincyGreatOutdoorWeekend.org or call (513) 965-4898




Cincinnati Earth Institute
www.CinciEarth.org • info@CinciEarth.org
phone 513.207.0038

In May, at the Greenwich on Peebles Corner

  
Saturday, May 13 "The Elizabeth Windau Trio"
The fall of 2006 will witness the start of a Jazz Studies program at Northern Kentucky University.  The Greenwich will host a unique preview by student jazz musicians from NKU --
 
featuring Elizabeth Windau (piano), John Jacobs (bass) and Mike Johns (drums).
Showtime 10 PM. Special $3 admission for the evening. Free food available.
 
Call 513-221-1151 for details.
 

Friday, May 19 "Ecletic Vibe Ensemble (E.V.E.)"
Clarkhouse Entertainment debuts its monthly "low-key" artist showcase
featuring the musical/spoken word team of DHU (pronounced Da-hoo) and
Janus from Los Angeles, as well as the poetry and saxophone talents of
Cincinnati's own Kijani Tafari.  Showtime 9 PM. Donations accepted.
  

Saturday, May 20 "Justifiable Romance"
Independent film-maker Lee Zellars presents his latest project,
"Jusifiable Romance."  The film depicts the story of a chance
encounter between two people who later become the unlikeliest of
couples--Richardo Meeks a former gang member, and Tyler Jones an
uptown beauty who decides to "jump the fence" and follow the streets.
They meet in a local pawn shop. Both completely unaware of each
others intentions to commit a robbery.  It was love at first sight...
  
This movie has not been rated.  It is intended for a mature audience.
Showtime 8 PM. Admission $5.
 

Saturday, May 20 "New School Cincinnati" Social
Enjoy an evening of networking and music with New School Cincinnati--an
organization for young urban professionals. Starts at 9:30 PM.  Public
invited. Donations accepted. See the website "
www.newschoolcincinnati.com <http://www.newschoolcincinnati.com/> "
 
 
  
Saturday, May 27 “Sidebusters: a group show"
“The “Upstairs at The Greenwich” gallery hosts an opening reception
for this open themed showcase of recent works by established and emerging
  
local artists.  Curated by visual artist Ryan Little, the exhibit concludes with a
closing reception on June 17. Reception 7 PM to 10 PM.
Public invited.  Free admission, free food.
Upstairs at The Greenwich:
Gallery hours: Mon-Thurs 7 PM-10 PM, Fri & Sat 7 PM-12 AM.  
 
Other days & times by appointment.
 
 
  
Saturday, May 27 "iolite"
A unique blend of jazz, blues with just a dash of soul describes the
sound of this talented musical collective known simply as "iolite."
Showtime 10 PM. $5 cover. Food available. Call 513-221-1151 for
details.



5/13
Ellen,

Please pass this message on to persons in attendance on at Monday's Salon.  Thank you.

Barbara Smitherman


A Local Teen Group Honors Cincinnati Mothers At Their Fund Raiser
 

On May 13, 2006, the teen organization, Building Foundations for Life (BFFL) will honor six Majestic Mothers: Regina Bell, Dana Blackwell, Mozelle Primus Flowers, Kathy Howell, Constance Hudson and Eleanor Morgan.  The public is invited to bring and honor mothers at this special event.
 
This semi-formal Mother’s Day Dinner Dance and Silent Auction will be held downtown at the Hall of Mirrors
                                   Hilton Cincinnati – Netherland Plaza
                                   35 West Fifth Street
5:30 p.m. Reception /Silent Auction - 6:30 p.m. Dinner- 8:00 p.m. Dance

Donation $40.00 per person – $400.00 a table
Proceeds will benefit The Ronald McDonald and The Bethany Houses
 

The members of BFFL have dedicated their teen years to making positive changes in the lives of others.  It began about a year ago when nine teens organized a not-for-profit organization.  Immediately, they began performing community service and raising the funds to do so.  Presently, they volunteer each week in an after-school at Winton Hills Academy.  A few months ago, they helped to finance an outreach youth program.  During the Thanksgiving break, they made 250 sandwiches for a downtown drop-in-center and in March, they contributed $500.00 to the YWCA’s Mamie Earl Sells Scholarship Fund.
 
BFFL is on the move!
 
For reservations and more information, contact Joshua, Liza or Carle at (513)-559-9390 at Ext 23 or Ext 13 or liza@jostinconcrete.com




5/19  Salonista Paul Saas appearing with Blues Band

Spring has sprung, the grass has riz and  so the seasons turn again. Who's peddling the season cycle?
 

 
While we ponder the greeness of green,  the Three Piece Suits lumber out of hibernation just in time to  celebrate the Reds in First Place and the Indy 500. And the ritual of  The Spring Mowing Of The Lawn.
 

 
The Suits will be Bluesin' Amongst The  Green at Parker's Blue Ash Grill, Fri. May 19, 6:00pm (Happy Hour) and  Sat. May 20, 7:00pm. No cover.
 

 
Excellent food and beverages, family  friendly and the patio is open.
 

 
Parker's is at the corner of Reed  Hartman and Cooper Rds. in Blue Ash.
 

 
See you there!
 

 
Paul


5/21 Sunday 4 :30 Clifton U. Methodist Church, Clifton Ave and Senator Pl (behind chili parlor)

EarthSave Cincinnati
meeting and pot luck, featuring
Dr. Noble Maseru, Cincinnati’s new Health Commissioner.

Remember when we were trying last summer to get Vic Wulsin MD selected by the Bd of Health?  Wanted more emphasis on Prevention and Public Health, as well as maintaining our wonderful city health clinics.  
Well, this guy was selected, and I for one am eager to hear what he says.

Ellen

EarthSave is strictly Vegan vegetarian (no milk, no cheese, no eggs no casein, no  honey, no unknown ingredients... And of course no meat or fish.)  For dish ideas, call 929-2500 or email
earthSave@nuvox.net
Or go to http://Cincinnati.EarthSave.org


 
Tri-State Treasures
 
Tri-State Treasures is a compilation of unique local people, places, and events that may enrich your lives.  These treasures have been submitted by you and others who value supporting quality community offerings.  Please consider supporting these treasures, and distributing the information for others to enjoy.  And please continue to forward your Tri-State Treasures ideas to jkesner@nuvox.net.
 
Guidelines for submitting Tri-State Treasures are at the bottom of this email.
Sincerely,  Jim

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 
Change the Conversation, Change the World- Civic Engagement Series [Thursdays 4 & 11 May @ 6-9 PM]: The public is invited to attend a 2-part education & skill development series to provide tools to change the nature of the conversation in the civic community. The series will be led by Peter Block & members of A Small Group & hosted by North College Hill City Government.  The sessions are high interaction & one of the key benefits is the connection you will make with a great group of committed, powerful people working to make Cincinnati better for all. Peter is author of several best selling books, an international consultant, & Cincinnati citizen. He promotes empowerment, stewardship, chosen accountability, & reconciliation of community. His work is to bring change into the world through consent & connectedness rather than mandate & force. A Small Group is a volunteer group working to increase quality of civic engagement in Cincinnati. Free; you are requested to attend both sessions. Reserve your seat by May 2.  At the Life Spring Christian Church, 1373 West Galbraith Road, North College Hill, Cincinnati, OH. More info & register @ 513.451.0166, cert@fuse.net, & www.asmallgroup.net.
 
Final Cincinnati Ballet Performances of the Season [Friday 5 May @ 8 PM & Saturday 6 May @ 2 & 8 PM]: The season concludes with 3 very different pieces showcasing the physicality & artistry of the Cincinnati Ballet dancers. Jim Hart, the Ballet's assistant conductor & principle pianist performs as piano soloist with the orchestra in George Balanchine's "Who Cares" set to the music of George Gershwin. The virtuosic piano score was created from transcriptions of Gershwin's own piano roll recordings of his famous songs as he played them at swank, New York social events. It's a flirty & fun-loving, kick-up-your-heels piece that this company presents in a thrilling way - a special treat. "Fingerprints" choreographed by Stanton Welch to the "Pieces of Africa" music of the Kronos Quartet is a brilliant & thought-provoking ballet questioning remnants of past influences. Rounding out the program is "Quattro a Verdi" choreographed by Michael Smuin. At the Aronoff Center, 650 Walnut Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202.  More info & tickets @ 513.621.5219, 513.721.3344, info@cincinnatiarts.org, & www.cincinnatiarts.org/tickets/detail.php?event_id=421.
 
Just Call Me Kade - Film [Friday 5 May @ 7 PM]: Out Reels, Cincinnati's 1st Annual Gay Lesbian Bisexual Transgender Film Festival, presents Sam Zolten's "Just Call Me Kade" (26 minutes) followed by a panel discussion. The film documents the journey by Kade Farlow Collins, a 16-year-old female to male transgendered person, as her parents support & nurtur Kade. Friends & family express their candid feelings about the transition, the changes to Kade & the impact on everyone involved.  Panelists Paula Ison & Philecia Barnes will discuss their personal journeys & the challenges they face as transgendered people living in Cincinnati. Attorney Scott Knox will discuss legal hurdles transgender people overcome. Out Reels seeks to reveal the layers of misunderstanding transgender people face by society before, during, & after their transition. Free & open to the public. Co-sponsored by Equality Cincinnati. At The Mockbee, 2260 Central Parkway, Cincinnati, OH. More info @ outreels@glbtcentercincinnati.com & www.outreels.com.
 
Billy Harper Quintet @ Jazz At The Hyatt [Friday  5 May @ 8-12 PM]:  The Billy Harper Quintet will present two sets, their only appearance in the Midwest & an unprecedented visit for Cincinnati.  Featuring Francesca Tanksley on piano, Keyon Harrold on trumpet, Dwayne Bruno on bass, & Newman Taylor Baker on drums. No-holds barred straight-ahead jazz.  $30 cover; $15 Jazz Club Members.  Because of the expected demand of tickets, this concert has been moved to the Grand Ballroom, Hyatt Hotel Cincinnati, 151 West 5th Street, Downtown Cincinnati, OH 45202. More info @ 513.579.1234, waltb31@fuse.net, www.billyharper.com, & www.jazzincincy.com.
 
Chess: The Musical [Friday 5 May - Saturday 13 May; Wed & Thur @ 7:30PM, Fri & Sat @ 8PM, Sun @ 2:30PM]:  Set during the 1980s Cold War, the rarely-seen pop/rock musical "Chess" is loosely based on the historic World Chess Tournament between American Bobby Fischer & Russian Boris Spassky, & the surrounding political intrigue. The stunning score is by songwriters Benny Andersson & Bjorn Ulvaeus (of Swedish pop group ABBA) & lyricist Tim Rice (EVITA).  Songs include the hit "One Night in Bangkok" & "I Know Him So Well" among others. Treat yourself & a friend to a different theatre experience. With an incredibly talented cast. Parental discretion is advised for adult language & situations. Tickets are $18; $17 for groups of 10 or more. Presented by Cincinnati Music Theatre.  At the Aronoff Center for the Arts, Jarson Kaplan Theatre,  650 Walnut Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202. More info @ 513.621.ARTS & www.cincinnatimusictheatre.org.
 
LUNAFEST Film Festival [Saturday-Sunday 6-7 May @ 7:30 PM]: For 2 nights only, the LUNAFEST Film Festival will showcase 8 award-winning short films by, for, & about women, followed by a discussion.  The festival was created to raise awareness about women's issues, highlight women filmmakers, bring women together in their communities, & raise money for the Breast Cancer Fund & the Breast Cancer Alliance of Greater Cincinnati.  This is a special evening where women, their friends, families, partners, husbands, & boyfriends can gather to view a selection of diverse films ranging from documentaries to animated shorts to dance narratives that appeal to the interests, sensibilities, & emotions of women & men of all ages, mindsets, lifestyles, ethnicities, & cultural backgrounds. Films explore contemporary situations in a frank & sometimes daring way, artfully conveying issues experienced by women within a "real world" framework that engages & inspires.  Topics include womens health, body image, sexuality, spirituality, sports, relationships, cultural diversity, breaking barriers, & the environment. Part of the proceeds go to the Breast Cancer Foundation & the Breast Cancer Alliance of Cincinnati. Tickets are $8 in advance; $10 at the door; $8 at the door for students with valid ID.  Presented by Cincinnati World Cinema.  At the Freedom Center, 50 East Freedom Way, Cincinnati, OH 45202.  More info @ 859.781.8151, WorldCinema@fuse.net, & www.cincyworldcinema.org, & www.lunabar.com/lunafest/.
 
Eentsy-Weentsy: Exploring the World of Miniature Books [Saturday 6 May @ 3 PM]:  As part of its exhibit Special Collections in Special Collections, the Rare Books & Special Collections Department of the Main Library will present Eentsy-Weentsy: Exploring Miniature Books.  These Miniature books, most of which are less than 3 inches tall & some smaller than a penny, have delighted readers for centuries. Popular because they were easily carried or concealed, these historic books range from tiny "Thumb Bibles" to illustrated nursery rhymes. The earliest piece of block printing to which an accurate date can be ascribed - a Japanese wooden block print from about 770 AD - is a miniature scroll & part of the Lilly Library's collections. At the Main Library, 800 Vine Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202.  More info @ 513.369.6959 & rick.helmes@cincinnatilibrary.org.
 
Three-and-Only: Keyboard Club Babes [Sunday 7 May @ 4 PM]: Stephanie Sepate, Dee Dee Uhle, & Terry Granick perform in a recital of piano works for 2, 4, & 6 hands.  The three met as piano students of Dorothy Stolzenbach Payne back in the 70's. As adults they've reunited through the Cincinnati Keyboard Club founded by Payne in 1935 & are the "babies" of the Club.  Collectively, Stephanie, Dee Dee, & Terry are the only ones in the area who regularly perform as 3 people at 1 piano...  true 6-hand piano playing.  The recital will feature Gurlitt, Scriabin, Rachmaninoff, Gershwin (a la Rhapsody in Blue), Lecuona, Liszt (a la Bugs Bunny) & a few others. Free & open to the public.  At Wyoming Presbyterian Church, 225 Wyoming Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45215.  More info from Terry Granick @ 513.791.5395 & tgranick@fuse.net.
 
S.O.S ART 06 [thru 7 May]:  An art event of socio-political expression for peace & justice.  2D & 3D visual art, performances, movies, lectures, & debates.  All events are free & open to the public.  An art exhibition can be viewed during these 2 weeks.  Gallery hours: Tuesday - Thursday: 6-9PM, Fridays & Saturdays: 7PM-midnight; Sundays: 3-6PM.  At The Mockbee, 2260 Central Parkway or 603 W McMicken Avenue, Cincinnati OH 45214.  More info & program schedule @ saad.ghosn@uc.edu, & www.irhine.com/index.jsp?page=home_042405.
 
Radio Gals - Aboard the Showboat Majestic [thru May 7]:  A musical set in the late l920's, Radio Gals features Hazel Hunt from Cedar Ridge, AR, who receives a 500 watt radio transmitter & begins broadcasting as WGAL.  What comes out over the local airwaves is a small town diary, calendar, & stream of consciousness with generous dollops of singing & playing by Hazel's all-girl orchestra, The Hazelnuts. But Hazel's habit of "channel wandering" takes her broadcasts as far as Montreal & Manhattan.  O. B. Abbott, Federal Radio Inspector, sets out to rescue the airwaves, but falls prey to the enticing Hazelnuts & the Shangri-La that is Cedar Ridge as he reveals his fine voice, talents for accordion, & affections for one of the girls.  $15 for adults; $14 for seniors & students.  Aboard the Showboat Majestic, 435 East Mehring Way, Cincinnati, OH 45202.  More info @ 513 241 6550, jen.johnson@fuse.net, & www.cincinnatilandmarkproductions.com.
 
Divas of Jazz Kick-Off Party & Series [Kick-Off Party: Monday 8 May @ 5-9:30 PM; Series: Wednesday-Sunday 10-14 May]: Join SUMA (Services United for Mothers & Adolescents) & Simones invite you to their Kick-Off Party for the Divas of Jazz Series on Monday, combined by sumptuous bites prepared by Simone's culinary team.  The Series is Wednesday-Sunday 10-14 May featuring the fabulous jazz divas: Janelle Reichamn, Ms. Teresa, Dixie Karas, Kathy Wade, & Lavennia Campbell. $25 admission.  At 1544 Madison Road, Desales Plaza, Cincinnati, OH 45206.  More info & concert times @ 513.751.3975, simones@fuse.net, & www.simonescafe.com.
 
Carnegie Visual & Performing Arts Center [thru Saturday 27 May]:  Stephen Cefalo - Duveneck Gallery "Prints in Translation." Group Show - Ohio National Financial Services Gallery featuring works by The Print Club of Northern Kentucky University: Patrick Dougherty - Rieveschl Gallery; Mitch Eckert - Hutson Gallery. Exhibition runs through May 27. Hors d'oeurves by Paula's Cafe Coffee by The Mad Cup Karen Tindall - Connector Gallery Admission for Reception. $8 admission. Carnegie Visual & Performing Arts Center, 1028 Scott Boulevard, Covington, KY 41011. More info @ 859.491.2030 & www.thecarnegie.com.
 
Amnesty International Benefit Concert [Friday 12 May @ 9 PM]: A concert that will also include film & spoken word will benefit & raise awareness for Amnesty International. Bands will include Campfire Crush, The Chocolate Horse, The Terrors, The Frankl Project, & John Parker.  Admission is only $5.  At the Southgate House Ballroom, 24 East 3rd Street, Newport, KY 41071.  More info @ 513.582.9978, 859.431.2201, sammyike@hotmail.com, www.southgatehouse.com, & www.amnesty.org.
 
Cincinnati Waldorf School Annual MayFaire Honors Mothers [Saturday 13 May @ 11 AM 3 PM]:  The annual Mayfaire celebrates the arrival of spring &, this year, mothers.  Events include a plant sale, garden décor raffle, container garden raffle, spa treatments & chair massage, May pole dancing, activities for kids of all ages, & (back by popular demand) the Queens Stage amateur talent show.  Visit the Magic Meadow school store which stocks natural toys, crafts & books.  Enjoy wholesome food & beverages in the café.  Free & open to the public.  At the Cincinnati Waldorf School, 745 Derby Avenue (near Spring Grove Cemetery), historic Winton Place, Cincinnati, OH 45232.  More info @ 513.541.0220 ext 13, marketing@cincinnatiwaldorfschool.org, & www.cincinnatiwaldorfschool.org.
 
Anime Film Festival & CosPlay: Take III [Saturday 13 May @ 1-5:30 PM]:  From manga to anime to CosPlay, teens from 12-18 are invited to attend the 3rd CosPlay and Anime Film Festival.  Come dressed as your favorite anime or manga character.  Win prizes, meet other anime & manga fans, & find out how to learn Japanese through manga, plus watch some anime & much more.  At the Main Library, 800 Vine Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202.  More info @  513.369.6941 & rick.helmes@cincinnatilibrary.org.
 
Kennedy Heights Arts Center 2nd Annual Spring Show [Sunday 14 May @ 11 AM - 8 PM]: Paintings, photography, sculpture, pottery, jewelry, & fiber. Meet the Artists Reception @ 6:00 - 8:00 PM. At the Kennedy Heights Arts Center, 6546 Montgomery Road, Cincinnati, OH 45213.  More info @ 513-631-4278 & jrulli@cinci.rr.com.
 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Tri-State Treasures is compiled by James Kesner.

Submit Tri-State Treasures, or request your email address be added or removed from the list by sending an email to jkesner@nuvox.net and specifying "Tri-State Treasures."
 
Tri-State Treasures are typically transmitted on Wedesdays of each week.  Submissions should be received by noon on Mondays.
 
Please help me by submitting your Tri-State Treasure in the following format; see examples in the newsletter:
<10-word description of the treasure [date @ time]: Brief description of the treasure; what is it; why is it wonderful & unique. Cost. Sponsor. Location including address & zip code. More info @ telephone, email, & website.


Healthy Aging fair Tues 5/23  “JASS FEST”  (“Jewish Agencies Serving Seniors”)  Not just for Jews

Free.   information and screenings
Wise Center on Ridge Rd.
1 – 4 pm
Including
  • Practical Fitness: ten tips
  • Nutrition for healthy aging
  • Hearing screening
  • Blood Pressure screening
  • Vision Screening
  • Pulmonary function tests
  • Foot Reflexology introduction
  • etc.

More info: 513 766 3383

6/9, 10

For more information contact:
Natalie Mathis, Managing Director
MUSE - Cincinnati's Women's Choir
Office:
(513) 221-1118
Email: muse@musechoir.org
Website: www.musechoir.org <http://www.musechoir.org>

MUSE - Cincinnati's Women's Choir
Catherine Roma, Artistic Director
presents

The Great Peace March
23rd Annual MUSE Spring Concert
with
MUSE & Holly Near
Cindy Sheehan
Muslim Mothers Against Violence

Pre-Concert Teach-ins begin at 7:00PM
Friday, June 9: Cindy Sheehan - Gold Start Families for Peace
Saturday, June 10: Shakila Ahmad & Saba Chughtai - Muslim Mothers Against Violence

Concert Begins at 8:00PM

New Thought Unity Center
1401 East McMillan Street, Cincinnati
Friday and Saturday, June 9 and 10

Ticket Price: $15 (sliding scale $8-$25) in advance, $20 at the door

MUSE - Cincinnati's Women's Choir hosts Holly Near, Cindy Sheehan and Muslim Mothers Against Violence at the 23rd Annual MUSE Spring Concert, The Great Peace March, June 9 and 10. Pre-concert teach-ins, featuring Cindy Sheehan (Friday, June 9) and Muslim Mothers Against Violence (Saturday, June 10), will begin at 7:00PM.  The Spring Concert with MUSE and Holly Near will begin at 8:00PM.  All will take place at New Thought Unity Center at 1401 East McMillan Street in Cincinnati.

Activist, singer, teacher and recording artist Holly Near has spent the past 35 years working for political and social change.  As one Near fan put it, "She is a divine mix of Pete Seeger and Judy Garland!"  Near and MUSE will sing peace and justice-themed songs promoting local and global solidarity among women.  Near will introduce songs from her newly released CD titled, Show Up.  Mothers and their children will be invited to sing together on stage as part of the Annual Mother's and Children's Chorus, and MUSE will present the 4th Annual Enduring Spirit Award.

The Enduring Spirit Award recognizes a woman who embodies any or all aspects of the MUSE philosophy, including a commitment to feminism, diversity, musical excellence, community service and social justice.  The choir is accepting nominations from the public for this award until May 22nd (contact the MUSE office for details).

Cindy Sheehan, internationally renowned peace activist and founder of Gold Star Families for Peace (www.gsfp.org
<http://www.gsfp.org> ), will join MUSE for a one-night, pre-concert teach-in on Friday, June 9.  Sheehan has drawn attention to the peace movement since her son, Army Specialist Casey A. Sheehan (May 29, 1979 - April 4, 2004), was killed in action in Baghdad.  In August 2005, Sheehan set up "Camp Casey" near President Bush's compound in Crawford, Texas.  She is working to keep the camp functioning until the President agrees to meet with her and personally discuss her concerns. She also led the national "Bring Them Home Now" tour last year, and will soon release her book, Dear President Bush, with an introduction by Howard Zinn.

On Saturday, June 10, Muslim Mothers Against Violence (MMAV) will lead a pre-concert teach-in.  MMAV is a 100-woman organization based at the Islamic Center of Cincinnati.  The group's goal is to encourage non-violence through collaboration, understanding and unity within communities.  These women work locally to open dialogue with Muslim mothers and their neighbors, providing adult education and youth forums, such as "Bullies and Buddies" in schools.  One of MMAV's projects was to write to families who lost children in war to express their support as mothers and share the families' pain.

At the concert, MUSE will display two peace-related works of art:  an interactive spiral peace mandala by local artist, C. Pic Michel; and Eyes Wide Open, an installation by the American Friends Service Committee. This spring, Michel's mandala will travel across Cincinnati, growing as people from many communities add paint and fabric while meditating on peace.  The Eyes Wide Open exhibit includes 24 pairs of combat boots, each representing 100 US soldiers killed in Iraq, intended to illuminate the human cost of war.

Holly Near and MUSE Artistic Director Catherine Roma encourage Cincinnatians to attend the 23rd Annual MUSE Spring Concert and to participate in the international movement for peace:

There is so much going on out there.  Peace and justice organizations are everywhere. We are no longer a minority.  Becoming visible to each other is one of the great challenges we face.  So, show up.  It will be of great use to other peace loving people around you!
- Holly Near

Indeed this has been a year of collaborations for MUSE.  We aim to build a chorus of voices to amplify our sound for change, giving our strength to the struggle, mano a mano, arm in arm.  Let's all be a force for peace across the land.
- Catherine Roma

Tickets are $15 (with a sliding scale of $8-$25) in advance, and $20 at the door.  They are available online at www.musechoir.org <http://www.musechoir.org>  and by calling the MUSE office at (513) 221-1118.  Other ticket outlets include: Shake It Records (Northside), Epic Books (Yellow Springs), and Sam and Eddie's Open Books (Yellow Springs).

Sign language interpretation will be available Saturday night only.  Free child care is available with reservation by June 2, and the venue is handicap accessible.  This event is co-sponsored by UC Diversity Education, UC Department of Women's Studies, UC Friends of Women's Studies, The Peace Collective, and other supporters.

MUSE - Cincinnati's Women's Choir
Phone:
(513) 221-1118
Email: muse@musechoir.org
Website: www.musechoir.org <http://www.musechoir.org>






Lloyd House has Space Available
2/18/06

First floor room for office, studio, ...?  
This is a large oak paneled room with Rookwood fireplace.  Currently furnished with king size loft bed platform, sofa, arm chair, Dhurrie rug, long oak library table.  Could share the living room with me as a waiting room.  Has its own outside entry door.  A very handsome room.  Terrific for massage practice, for instance.  $320?

And come summer barring a miracle job for Alan in the city, we will have his
beautiful two room suite available on second floor, plus sleeping porch.  
Other Perqs: off street parking, free laundry, high speed internet, living room with piano, TV, DVD, VCR, community iMac Computer.  Dining room seats 16+.  Veranda off dining room with Hatteras swing, furniture.  Easy access to Monday night salon pot luck, Saturday morning Dharma Study group, Sat. evening drumming circle, and ....
The Lloyd House is a stimulating, friendly, multi-cultural environment.  Good vibes are required, as is a rock solid financial responsibility.  Housemates can be as private or as friendly as they wish.  Know anyone who might like to explore this?  No undergraduates, no pets, no smoking.  Prefer someone who would be interested in participating in the Salon and/or other activities here.  Call me: 221 1289  



P.S.  It feels like something new might be about to happen with regard to the use of the Lloyd House.  Help me dream that up.  221 128
9  or email   Ellen   ellenbierhorst@lloydhouse.com v


4/1
    I have spent many many hours sitting on cushions in
Buddhist centers over the past thirty plus years, but never until now had the opportunity to study the actual suttras or suttas , the scriptures, what the man actually said.  I am enjoying tremendously my Saturday mornings with Richard Blumberg and Liz Hamilton and others at the Dharma Center in Northside, doing just that...reading the key teachings.  Impressive erudition!  Come join us.  Every Saturday, the Dharma Center behind the Northside post office on Hamilton Ave just north of the  RR tracks.  The Dharma Center entry  is on the tiny street Moline that flanks the building.  9:30 - 11.  Ten minutes of sitting practice.  Interested?  Contact richard@WmBlake.com or...just come.

Ellen Bierhorst Ph.D. is a holistic psychotherapist with over 30 years experience serving individuals and  families.  Expert, caring, rapid service.  Most insurance plans will cover.    Call 513 221 1289.  Special areas of interest: issues of  young adulthood, couple communication, GLBT, trauma recovery using EMDR, clinical hypnosis, parenting skills, alternative lifestyles, addictions (tobacco, alcohol, drugs, overeating), weight loss.  What is "holistic"? Ans: body/mind/spirit; open to alternative healing modalities from chiropractic to homeopathy, acupuncture, etc.







Section Three:
Articles




Contents:
  • SIERRA CLUB ON OIL PRICES ETC.
  • Sierra Club: there is hope re. global warming
  • Rising numbers of Jewish Buddhists
  • Moderator group appologizes for reversal of findings, cinti. healthcare meeting last Sat.
  • Michelle disagrees re. immigrant rights
  • New Org. says “Help save democracy in America!”
  • Al Gore in 2008?
  • Thoughts on transition to  sustainable society


5/6  sierra club on oil prices etc.

Interesting facts.  Nancy Dawley
 

----- Original Message -----
From: Sierra Club RAW
Sent: Thursday, May 04, 2006 5:51 PM
To: ndawley@msn.com
Subject: Sierra Club RAW: By the Numbers - Gas Prices & Oil Addiction
 

BY THE NUMBERS:
GAS PRICES AND CUTTING AMERICA'S OIL ADDICTION

(May 3, 2006)

GAS PRICES
$2.92
...Average retail price for regular gasoline, up 69 cents from a year ago.
$2,873...Amount average family of four spent on gasoline in 2005 Consumer Expenditure Survey from Bureau of Labor Statistics and the Energy Information Administration.
$3,343...Amount an average family will spent this year, up 75 percent from 2001. (EIA)
$73.75...Price per barrel of crude oil on the New York Mercantile Exchange.

RECORD PROFITS
$8.4 billion
...ExxonMobil's first-quarter profits in 2006.
$4 billion...ChevronTexaco's first-quarter profits in 2006, up 49 percent from 2005.
$3.29...ConocoPhillip's first-quarter profits in 2006.
$15.7 billion...Combined first-quarter profits of ExxonMobil, ChevroTexaco and ConocoPhillips.
$63.8 billion...combined 2005 profits of ExxonMobil ($36.1 billion), Chevron ($14.1 billion) and ConnocoPhillips ($13.5 billion). (U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission data)

HANDOUTS TO AMERICANS VERSUS BIG OIL
$30 million
...Amount the top 10 oil companies spent on lobbying in 2005.
$80 billion...in subsidies and tax loopholes to the oil and gas and other polluting energy industries in the energy law signed in 2005. (Taxpayers for Common Sense
www.taxpayer.net)
$7 billion...Amount oil companies would gain over the next five years by avoiding royalty payments for Gulf oil and gas drilling, thanks to an obscure provision in the 2005 energy bill. The costs could soar to $28 billion. (New York Times, March 28, 2006)
$100...Amount some in Congress proposed giving to Americans in the form of a tax rebate later this summer.
$400 million...Retirement package for former ExxonMobil CEO Lee Raymond -- $141,000 a day or $6,000 an hour. (ABC News, 4/14/06)

OIL DEPENDENCE
25
...Percentage of world's oil production consumed by the United States.
3...Percentage of world's oil reserves located in the United States. (Energy Information Administration - www.eia.doe.gov)

ARCTIC REFUGE AND AMERICA'S COASTS
1 cent
...Amount of savings for consumers at the pump if we drill for oil in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (.pdf)
20 years...When consumers would see the penny savings.
47 days...Amount of oil from opening up parts of Lease Sale 181 in the Eastern Gulf of Mexico to drilling.

REAL SOLUTIONS
4 million
...The number of barrels of oil per day that the United States would save if fuel economy standards were raised to 40 miles per gallon within 20 years.
$2,200...Amount that the average driver would save at the gas pump over the lifetime of a vehicle if fuel economy standards were raised to 40 miles per gallon over the next 10 years, a conservative estimate based on lower gas prices.

POLL NUMBERS
71
..Percentage of Americans who disapprove of the way President Bush is handling energy policy.
82...Percentage of Americans who don't think President Bush has a clear plan for keeping gas prices down.


Strategic Leaking
Leaked document provides overwhelming evidence that the Earth's climate is undergoing drastic change due to human activity. Read more in Compass.



------------------------------------------------------------------------

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Sierra Club | 85 Second St. San Francisco, CA 94105 | www.sierraclub.org


Sierra Club
85 Second St.
San Francisco, CA 94105
www.sierraclub.org


5/6
Hope re Global Warming

Global Warming - YOU can make a difference

 

Dear Sierra Club Member,

It isn't news to you - Sierra Club Members and other concerned Americans have known for years about global warming and the threat that it poses to us, our wildlands, and our wildlife. But an explosion of recent publicity has helped more of our neighbors, friends and families finally realize that we can't postpone addressing this problem any longer.

The good news is that there are real solutions to the problems of global warming and climate change, and with your help we can make them a reality.

For example, one of the biggest contributors to global warming are the greenhouse gas emissions from cars, light trucks and SUVs driven right here in the U.S.A.

 

 

And thanks to the work of the Sierra Club and other conservationists, significant progress is already being made to reduce those emissions - eleven states that represent 35% of U.S. vehicle sales - including California - have enacted laws that dramatically cut greenhouse gas emissions from cars, SUVs and light trucks and 20 states have adopted renewable energy standards that increase the amount of solar and wind power they generate for local homes and businesses to use - but this is just the beginning, we need your help to do much more.



Although progress at the federal level has been stymied by the Bush Administration and Congress's reluctance to embrace meaningful pollution and emission standards, with your help we can continue to make progress at the state and local levels to curb global warming by promoting energy efficiency, working to raise the fuel economy standards for cars and light trucks, and encouraging the production of clean, dependable energy from renewable sources like wind, solar and geothermal energy.

Nothing threatens the future of our planet, the security of our nation, or the health of our water and wildlands more than the way we produce and consume energy.

But with your support we can work to make the changes needed to curb global warming and to help ensure a clean energy future.

We have the technology today to move America forward to a cleaner energy future and cars that go farther on a gallon of gas, more efficient buildings and homes, and renewable energy are the solutions to America's energy problems.

But we need to create the political will to implement those solutions - please send your urgently needed donation today and help us tell Congress, the Administration, and our state and local governments, that it's time to embrace real energy solutions - energy efficiency, renewable resources like solar and wind power, and making cars go farther on a gallon of gas.

Your gift will help the Sierra Club and its efforts to curb global warming and promote real energy solutions, as well as our other critical efforts to protect America's wildlife, wildlands, air and water.

You CAN help curb global warming, slow climate change and avert the impending energy crisis.

Thank you for your support.

Carl Pope
Executive Director

P.S. Your urgent contribution will help our work to curb global warming, ensure a clean energy future and support our other vital work to protect America's wildlife, wildlands, air and water.

 

  Photos used with permission.

 
Sierra Club
85 Second St.
San Francisco, CA 94105
To unsubscribe, click here


5/6

At One With Dual Devotion
`JuBus' blend the communal rituals of Judaism with the quiet solitude of Buddhism. Most adherents are at peace with the paradox.
 
By Louis Sahagun
LA Times Staff Writer

May 2, 2006

The altar in Becca Topol's living room carries a statue of Buddha and a garden stone painted with the Hebrew word for peace, shalom.

In April she celebrated Passover with a "Zen Seder" feast that opened with a modified Haggada narrative comparing Israel's exodus from Egypt to Buddha's liberation from suffering.

"I'm a Jewish Buddhist — a JuBu," said Topol, 37. "My Buddhist practice has actually made me a stronger Jew."

While Buddhism has enriched Topol's Judaism — giving her a deeper sense of spirituality — it has produced confusion in fellow JuBu David Grotell. Grotell, 41, is so worried about breaking Judaism's ban against idol worship that "although I have a meditation spot in my home, as a Jew, I just can't allow myself to put a statue of Buddha there."

Grotell's conundrum and Topol's confidence show how diverse the JuBu experience can be — even inside one Zen Buddhist center in Santa Monica. They also underline how a new, American hybrid of Buddhism is blossoming, fed by a large representation of Jewish practitioners.

No one knows for certain how many JuBus there are; the last surveys were conducted in the 1970s. A large majority of the 3 million Buddhists in the United States are Asian, but by some estimates, at least 30% of all newcomers to Buddhism are Jewish. (By comparison, U.S. Jews number 6 million.)

Alan Lew, who studied Buddhism for a decade before changing course to become a rabbi, calls the paradoxical blend of Judaism, which bows to one God, and Buddhism, which has no supreme being, "a fruitful and beautifully creative meeting of two religious streams that came together in the United States."

"Most people don't go very far into Buddhism; they just want to feel a little better," said Michael Shiffman, founder of L.A. Dharma, a nonsectarian Buddhist organization in Los Angeles. "But can you be Jewish and not believe in God? Good question."

Others, however, would say it all depends on an individual's definition of God.

Essentially, Buddhism creates a solitary and quiet path away from suffering and toward a moral life based on an all-inclusive vision of interconnectedness, wisdom and compassion. A method for achieving that awareness is daily meditation. Being nondogmatic, Buddhism does not require that adherents join anything or reject anything — even the notion of God.

So in this regard it differs vastly from Judaism, a community-based tradition that relies on observances, laws and prayers such as the mourner's kaddish — the prayer for the dead — to connect adherents with a personal god.

So what is that Jews find so attractive about Buddhism?

"Suffering is at the heart of the matter," suggested David Gottlieb, whose autobiographical book "Letters to a Buddhist Jew" examines the life of a "Zen Jew" struggling to resolve his two identities. "Judaism, at its best, embraces suffering and, at its worst, enshrines it. Buddhism explicitly seeks to end suffering, and doesn't look to the past."

Lee Rosenthal, 59, of San Diego found that powerfully appealing. He'd just returned from the Vietnam War and was facing the deaths of his two children shortly after they were born, and then his wife's cancer.

"I couldn't buy into the spiritual answers I was getting from people for why my little babies passed away," he recalled. "But I picked up a book on Buddhism and it spoke to me, streetwise and honest."

"Instead of sugar-coating things, it gave me a plain explanation for why I was suffering — life is painful and difficult," he said. "It said also you can't run away from it. Deal with it."

As the world's leading Buddhist, the Dalai Lama, likes to say: If there is a problem and there is nothing you can do about it, there's no use worrying. If there is something that can be done, there's no use worrying. And with that understanding can come contentment, even joy.

Rosenthal went on to become a Buddhist priest, which his mother, Rosalie, came to terms with a few years ago in a poignant meeting.

"My mother has Alzheimer's disease and thinks I'm a kid who lived down the street from us in the 1950s," he said. "So one day I asked her, 'Rosalie, how's your son Lee doing?' She sat up straight in her wheelchair and with a proud look in her eye said, 'He's a Buddhist priest.' "

"I got teary-eyed," he said.

Buddhism has a history of adapting to new cultures.

It was founded by Gautama Siddhartha in India about the 6th century BCE and then spread to China, Japan, Korea, Tibet and Vietnam. It arrived in the United States in the late 19th century, and was popularized in the 1950s and '60s by the likes of Buddhist missionary D. T. Suzuki, author Alan Watts and JuBu beat poet Allen Ginsberg.

Now, American Buddhist centers long bound by a tradition of remaining politically neutral are adding priorities that reflect those of their large numbers of often liberal, educated and politically active Jewish members: family life, civil rights and programs to feed, house and educate the poor.

Zen Judaism has spawned a genre of JuBu jokes, such as: "If there is no self, whose arthritis is this?"

A majority of the board of directors of a leading Buddhist magazine, Tricycle: A Buddhist Review, are ethnic Jews. Half of the 10 Buddhist abbots to take charge of the Zen Center of San Francisco over the last 40 years were of Jewish ancestry.

Conversely, more and more synagogues are adopting Buddhist-inspired meditation programs, like the one Rabbi Lew recently co-founded in a blue wood-framed house a few doors down from the conservative Congregation Beth Shalom in San Francisco.

Inside, rows of meditation cushions emblazoned with the Star of David are arranged to face a framed image of the silent first letter of the Hebrew alphabet, Aleph.

"We get up from here and walk next door to the synagogue," Lew said, "where instead of reading sutras, we study Torah."

"Meditation is really catching on in the Jewish community," he added. "I have a very extensive travel schedule. And frequently when I talk about meditation techniques, synagogues set out 50 chairs and 300 people show up."

A majority of JuBus, as they call themselves, are baby boomers who were raised in loosely religious families and began to feel unfulfilled in the tumultuous and experimental 1960s and '70s. They joined the legions of other young men and women searching for spiritual nourishment, and ended up turning to Buddhism, a welcoming meditative practice devoid of the cultural stigmas contained in, say, Christianity or Islam.

And many, like Alan Senauke, now a Buddhist priest in the Bay Area, discovered the two traditions combined easily, almost on their own.

Although he no longer celebrates Jewish holy days, with the exception of Passover, Senauke said, "My Judaism and Buddhism are like vines so entangled they are not separate."

"Because of my Jewishness, I'm faulty as a Buddhist, and because of my Buddhism, I can never really be a practicing Jew," he said. With a smile, he added: "I'm comfortable with that."

"Look at it this way," said Senauke, who is also a noted bluegrass guitarist. "I've been playing Southern music for 45 years, but I'll never be a Southerner. I'm a New York Jewish boy. But this is my music, it resonates in my heart and I play it as authentically as I can."

The boom in Buddhism has left some Jewish leaders wondering how they could better serve their people.

"I'm encouraged that people want to find something more spiritual," said Rabbi Bentzion Kravitz of a group called Jews for Judaism.

"But I'm also disillusioned that they have not found it in Judaism. Maybe we haven't done a good enough job of making Jewish mysticism accessible to the masses."

But Marc Lieberman, a San Francisco ophthalmologist who helped arrange a historic dialogue between Jewish leaders and the Dalai Lama in 1989, calls the JuBu phenomenon a fine example of "good old American innovation."

"I'm a healthy mosaic of Judaism and Buddhism," Lieberman said. "Is that fair to either religion? Fair schmair! It's what I am.

"My Jewish side is a tribal sensibility; a reflexive identity with the pain and agony of my people, and the pride and glories of their traditions," he said. "But my Buddhist side asks, 'Does that exclude others in the world?' "

How all those clashing religious notions affect JuBus is illustrated in the paths taken by Lew and his lifelong chum Norman Fischer. In the 1970s, they lived in Buddhist monasteries and studied under Berkeley Zen Master Sojun Mel Weitsman, an ethnic Jew.

Their friends figured that Lew, a freewheeling intellectual, would become a Buddhist priest, and Fischer, who was always a studious rabbi's pet, would become a rabbinical scholar.

Instead, the opposite happened. But their theologically competing spiritual realms have acquired a lot of the curlicues and ambiguities that are characteristic of JuBus.

Lew, for example, said, "I don't believe one can be both Jewish and Buddhist; your central commitment should be clear. Personally, my roots are more Buddhist than Jewish, but my spiritual practice is Jewish."

He also firmly believes in God.

But Fischer, a high-ranking Buddhist priest whose first name is now Zoketsu, suggested that a "person can be a faithful Jew and practice Buddhism."

Topol would tend to agree with Fischer.

Six years of Buddhist training at the Santa Monica Zen Center, where reconciling with one's religion of origin is emphasized, has only deepened her appreciation and respect for her Jewish roots.

"I've found that Buddhism has broken apart my fixed beliefs and notions," she said, "so that I can approach Judaism with a fresh eye."

For Topol, that means viewing biblical descriptions of God's active presence in human affairs not as literal history, but as meditation tools and spiritual instructions for coping with daily life.

Rising from a meditation pillow after a Sunday morning Buddhist service, Topol said, "I even look at the writings of the Old Testament, such as Moses' conversations with God, as Zen koans; that is, as questions and statements to be used as meditation disciplines along the lines of 'What is the sound of one hand clapping?' "

What happens next is anyone's guess. But some JuBus are predicting the emergence of a unique American-style Buddhism.

"Jews value education, hard work, innovation and strong commitment to family, all of which they are bringing to American Buddhism," said Charles Prebish, a professor of religious studies at Penn State University. "What you get is some kind of a hybrid.

"But ultimately, it's an ongoing story," added Prebish, who calls himself a Buddhist of Jewish ancestry. "I hope I'm still alive when a lot of this plays out."

5/6

Whose paranoid now? Health Care data REVERSED in Enquirer story

Dear Community Meeting Participant:
We are writing to alert you to a mistake we made in reporting the specific tradeoff answers from yesterday’s Cincinnati Community Meeting on healthcare that you attended. The data we reported on the scale of agreement to disagreement was inadvertently reversed.
 
Today’s Cincinnati Enquirer story about the meeting reported that a majority of people would not pay higher income taxes to have universal care, or spend more tax money at the cost of reducing the amount spent on the war in Iraq.  The actual findings are the reverse.  On the question “to get universal health care we would be willing to pay higher income tax on a sliding scale,” 62% agreed or strongly agree with that statement. On the question about spending less on the war in Iraq and putting those monies into health care, 70% strongly agree with this tradeoff and another 14% said they agree.

Please know AmericaSpeaks very much regrets the mistake.  We are contacting today all participants and media that attended yesterday’s meeting to advise them of the correct information.  You can be assured that the report that goes to Congress and the President later this fall will incorporate the correct results from the Cincinnati meeting. You will also be able to view the correct report online at www.citizenshealthcare.gov <http://www.citizenshealthcare.gov/> .
 
Thank you for joining with other Americans across the country in this important national dialogue on the future of our health care system.
 
Best regards,
 
Carolyn J. Lukensmeyer, Ph.D.
President and Founder
AmericaSpeaks      
www.americaspeaks.org <http://www.americaspeaks.org/>
 
Surjeet Ahluwalia
Associate
AmericaSpeaks




5/6
Michelle disagrees re. Immigrant rights


Ellen,
  
I am disappointed that you appear to advocate "immigrant" rights. I think you mean illegal immigrants.
 
Obviously, these people are being exploited terribly and this has to stop. But it is troublesome to see a policy that would reward breaking the law being considered.  
  
It's quite obvious that our country cannot absorb every single person who would like to move here to escape severe economic deprivation at home. This is why we have immigration laws. (These are the same laws that my family and many others had to endure and obey when they were lucky enough to immigrate to the United States.)
  
In addition, it is very easy for drug traffickers and would-be terrorists to infiltrate among the people who are crossing our borders illegally.
  
What you may not realize is that the protests we are currently witnessing are in large part financed by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. They have contributed in excess of $10,000,000 to finance organization and flag expenses.
  
Why would they do this? The answer is quite obvious: cheaper labor. Even the foreign born technical specialists who come to this country legally are willing to work for much lower wages than is common for U.S. talent. The current immigration bills being considered in our Congress have riders that would increase the numbers of technical people allowed to enter our country for this very reason.
  
With real wages for U.S. workers being depressed through various ploys, I am very sad to see the plight of exploited Latinos and other foreigners being manipulated in an effort to depress our wages further.
 
The only reason there is "work that Americans won't do" is that it doesn't pay a living wage.
  
We need to stop the corporate greed by enforcing the penalties for breaking our laws. We also need to enforce our borders, which will also address the costly drug wars spilling over into our country.
  
Additionally, I am wondering why any of the protesters who happen to be from Mexico aren't taking to the streets of their own country. Why aren't they pushing for a greater sharing the wealth, especially in light of the state-owned oil reserves that were discovered there in the last few years?

Ellen’s  response to  Michelle:
I have not checked the figures on the Chamber of Commerce funding t his protest, but it would not surprise me one b it.  As Immanuel Wallerstein says in his World System analysis, the capitalist economy requires a continuing stream of very cheap labor, just as it requires a constantly expanding market.  Ain’t soundin’ sustainable to me.  ellen.

5/6
Saving Democracy in america?
From salonista Diane Fishbein, wife of our late b rother Hal Fishbein:
Bertell is Hal Fishbein's cousin and teaches politics at NYU.   from diane

Begin forwarded message:

From: obertell@netscape.net (Bertell Ollman )
Date: April 16, 2006 1:02:22 AM EDT
 New Amer. org. asks world for help in saving dem. in U.S.

Dear Friends, Comrades and Colleagues,
    Forgive the group letter, but we are trying to inform a lot of people in a short amount of time. Some of your friends, comrades, and colleagues - including Howard Zinn, Mumia Abu Jamal, Gore Vidal, Immanuel Wallerstein, Ellen Wood, Michael Parenti, Ramsey Clark, David Harvey, Harry Magdoff (until he died recently), Bertell Ollman and a couple dozen other progressive scholars, lawyers and activists - have started a new organization, the INTERNATIONAL ENDOWMENT FOR DEMOCRACY (IED), which has just gone public appealing to the people of world for help in saving democracy in the country that needs it most, the U.S.A. While the NATIONAL ENDOWMENT FOR DEMOCRACY (NED), as you know, gets money from the U.S. govt. to subvert regimes of which Washington disapproves - all in the name of "democracy promotion" (sic) and "democratic nation building" (double sic) - we are trying to do the opposite, which is to give people throughout the world a small chance to support democracy in the country whose increasingly undemocratic policies often harm them - militarily, economically and environmentally - even more than the policies of their own governments.  
   For what exactly this means, who we are, how we propose to do this, and how others can help, see our APPEAL just below and our website - <www.iefd.org> - (which contains the APPEAL in 13 languages, an extensive CRITICAL DEMOCRACY LIBRARY, and much else related to this unusual project).  
   We have just begun to send the APPEAL and a PRESS RELEASE (also in 13 languages) to - eventually - tens of thousands of people around the globe, asking those who approve of our initiative to forward the APPEAL to their email lists and contacts, asking them to do likewise, and so on. (Essentially, this is the strategy MoveOn applied in gathering support for Howard Dean in the 2004 Democratic Primary, which is being applied here for the first time to the entire world... and for a radical cause) Naturally, we would be delighted if you approve of our project and would help to forward our APPEAL and to publicize it in whatever ways are available to you. Thanks in advance for whatever you feel you can do on this.
    The APPEAL just below is in English, but if you want to forward it in other languages you will almost certainly find the one(s) you need on our website - www.iefd.org.  
       In Solidarity -
             Bertell Ollman
             Pres., IED

***I urge you to click on to the first clickable address below for a much clearer web version of the APPEAL in html, and urge those to whom you forward it to do likewise.



 To see this message on our web site in an easy-to-read html format:
http://www.iefd.org/?r=r01

==============================================
 URGENT APPEAL TO THE PEOPLE OF THE WORLD
==============================================

April, 2006

from  

the INTERNATIONAL ENDOWMENT FOR DEMOCRACY (I.E.D.)


HELP! HELP! The house is on fire and we are all living in it.
The United States government and its dependent organizations, such  
as the National Endowment for Democracy (NED), have responded to the
fire... by pouring more oil on it.

They call it "democratic nation building" - a fancy name for the  
perpetual wars, theft of the commons, exploding economic  
inequalities, weakening civil liberties (including the introduction  
of torture), and the intensifying degradation and outright  
destruction of our natural environment that lie hidden behind "free"
trade and the promise (seldom fulfilled) of a "free" election.  
Billions of people outside America want this madness to stop, but  
what can they do?

Our new and independent organization, the International Endowment  
for Democracy (I.E.D.), believes it will only stop if democratic  
nation building (the real thing, not the oil) is applied to the  
U.S., which is the country most responsible for these frightening  
global developments, and that people everywhere can play a role in  
bringing it about.

The I.E.D. is a new non-profit foundation whose Board of  
Directors includes:
HOWARD ZINN (America's leading radical historian)
MUMIA ABU-JAMAL (America's most famous political prisoner)
GORE VIDAL (America's premier progressive novelist and essayist)
ELLEN MEIKSINS WOOD (winner of the Isaac Deutcher Prize)
RAMSEY CLARK (world's leading human rights lawyer)
BARBARA FOLEY (Chair of the Left Alliance, the union of progressive
    academic caucuses)
MICHAEL PARENTI (America's foremost critic of capitalist democracy)
IMMANUEL WALLERSTEIN (past president of the International
    Sociological Association)
MICHAEL RATNER
(President of the Center for Constitutional Rights
    and past President of the National Lawyers' Guild)
and two dozen other major American progressive scholars, lawyers
and activists. Find the full Board of Directors at  
http://www.iefd.org/about/?r=r01

IN BRIEF: If groups like the National Endowment for Democracy (NED)  
use American government money (whence the "NATIONAL") - and a big  
dose of hypocrisy - to subvert democracy abroad, the International  
Endowment for Democracy (IED) hopes to use foreign monies (whence  
the "INTERNATIONAL") to help build a real democracy in the country  
that needs it most, the U.S.A. (See DEMOCRACY LIBRARY, section III)  
of our website:
http://www.iefd.org/articles/american_democracy.php?r=r01

WE ALSO CALL ON THE INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY TO MONITOR ELECTIONS IN  
THE UNITED STATES.
Is there anyone left in the world outside the  
U.S. who doesn't recognize the need for such monitors?
This is not because there is less democracy in America than anywhere
else - a few other lands are even worse off in this regard - but  
because the DEMOCRACY DEFICIT from which our country suffers is a  
greater threat to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness of  
people all across the globe than the actions of any other regime. As
victims of their own government's destructive policies, the great  
majority of Americans have no interest in retaining them and would  
change these policies in an instant if our democracy really worked  
as we're told it does. That they haven't is because they can't,
because the laws, the elections, the media, the schools and other  
means for making such changes have been bent out of shape (through  
systematic bias and, increasingly, outright repression), hidden  
(through enforced ignorance), bought up by Big Money (especially  
this), and - when "necessary" - stolen (as in the last two  
presidential elections). Who can doubt that people everywhere have a
huge stake in the democratization of America?

THIS MAY BE A FIRST: Americans asking people from other countries  
for help. Many recipients of this Appeal outside the U.S., however,  
are probably still asking themselves - "Why should we help  
Americans make needed changes in their country? Don't we have enough
to do in our own country?" The answer can be presented best by  
another question: Is there any reader who lives outside the capital  
of his or her country who believes it is a waste of time and money  
to try to influence the policies of the government sitting in the  
capital? That's where the main political power is. Well, in this  
period of American military, economic and cultural imperialism,  
Washington has become the real capital of your country, for it is  
there that many of the most destructive decisions affecting your  
life are made. It would seem to make sense, therefore, good  
political sense, to devote at least some of your time, energy and  
money to helping bring about the kind of changes you want in  
Washington. If that's at all possible...

At this moment in history, those of us who live in the United States
are in the best position to confront our common oppressor. The  
responsibility we bear, therefore, is enormous, but our forces are  
weak. While the current government's undermining of the democratic  
process, as imperfect as it was, constitutes a growing threat to all
dissenters, it also provides us with a key issue on which our rulers
are extremely vulnerable. As the explosion of governmental hypocrisy
clearly attests, democracy remains the American people's favorite  
virtue. It is on this crucial issue, with its broad ramifications  
for government policy in America and around the world, that we need  
your help.

There are many groups in the United States that are trying to defend
what remains of our rapidly shrinking democracy and/or build a  
better, more egalitarian one. Mostly they are small, and they all  
lack funds. The International Endowment for Democracy (I.E.D.) wants
to give people all over the world an opportunity to participate in  
this crucial struggle by making a donation (no matter how small) to  
us, which we will then distribute to some of these groups. Apart  
from our small operating expenses (no I.E.D. board members are  
paid), all the money received will be passed on. As odd as this may  
sound, with this show of solidarity, people everywhere can now help  
themselves by helping us to help them. Maybe this doesn't sound so  
odd, after all.

--------------------------------------------------------------------

POTENTIAL CONTRIBUTORS should also know that we will not give money  
to any political party, or accept money from any organization  
involved in violent forms of political activity or from any foreign  
government.
To American readers, who don't need our advice to donate money to  
their favorite progressive organizations, we only ask that you  
continue doing what you have been (okay, do a little more), but  
please forward this appeal to your friends and acquaintances,  
especially those who come from abroad. (Should you also want to show
your support for this initiative by making a donation, of course, we
won't turn you away.)

--------------------------------------------------------------------

THE SUCCESS OF OUR PROJECT depends on getting the word out to  
millions of people throughout the world.

So...if you approve of what we are doing and think it could be  
important, we urge you to send this appeal to all the people on your
e-mail trees, and to the websites and blogs you visit as well as to  
the discussion and organizational lists to which you belong,  
particularly outside the U.S. And please don't neglect your contacts
in the media.  

The MoveOn organization is said to have reached between ten and  
twenty million Americans on behalf of Howard Dean during the 2004  
presidential primaries in just this way, but ours may be the first  
attempt to extend this strategy to the whole world. It is certainly  
the first attempt to use the internet to involve the whole world in  
the badly needed democratization of the United States.
The supremely serious nature as well as the planetary scope of our  
problem is what makes this approach necessary. The new technology of
the internet is what makes it possible. But it still requires a  
little help from you to make it happen.

_________________
 WON'T YOU HELP?
_________________

See our website -
http://www.internationalendowmentfordemocracy.org or
http://www.iefd.org  -  for information
on the following, much of it in OVER A DOZEN LANGUAGES:

--------------------------------------------------------------------

See HOW TO HELP for details on how to make a donation.
http://www.iefd.org/donations/?r=r01

--------------------------------------------------------------------

See our STATEMENT OF PURPOSE for a more detailed analysis of the
crisis in American democracy and what we hope to achieve.
http://www.iefd.org/articles/statement_of_purpose.php

See our PRESS RELEASE.
http://www.iefd.org/press/press_releases.php?r=r01

See WHO WE ARE for the background and publications of the members
of our Board of Directors.
http://www.iefd.org/about/?r=r01

See WHERE THE MONEY GOES for our priorities and procedures in
passing on funds (and, later, for how much money we received and
who we gave it to).
http://www.iefd.org/money/priorities.php?r=r01

--------------------------------------------------------------------

IN ENGLISH SECTION OF WEBSITE ONLY
See our DEMOCRACY LIBRARY, which contains some of the best critical
writing on this subject and is divided into the following sections:
* National Endowment for Hypocrisy Democracy
* Stolen Election(s)
* American 'Democracy'?
* Is Democracy Compatible with Capitalism?  
(HIGHLY RECOMMENDED for courses that deal with democracy at both  
high school and college levels).


--------------------------------------------------------------------
--------------------------------------------------------------------

TO CONTACT US:

WEBSITE
http://www.internationalendowmentfordemocracy.org
or http://www.iefd.org

E-MAIL
mailto:comments@iefd.org (for readers' comments or questions)

REGULAR MAIL
International Endowment for Democracy,
P.O. Box 3005
Prince Street Station
New York, New York, 10012, U.S.A.
(for all of the above plus DONATIONS BY CHECK - please include
e-mail address with all letters)

====================================================================

PRESIDENT OF THE I.E.D.
    Prof. Bertell Ollman
    Dept. of Politics, NYU

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE OF THE I.E.D.
    Prof. Michael Brown
       (former Chair) Dept. of Sociology, Northeastern Univ.
    Prof. Barbara Foley
       Dept. of English, Rutgers Univ. (Newark)
    Prof. Emeritus John Manley
       (former Chair) Dept. of Political Science, Stanford Univ.
    Michael Smith
       Lawyer

====================================================================

FOREIGN LANGUAGE VERSIONS
Arabic http://www.iefd.org/lang/ar01.php?r=r01
Bengali http://www.iefd.org/lang/bn01.php?r=r01
Chinese http://www.iefd.org/lang/zh01.php?r=r01
Farsi http://www.iefd.org/lang/fa01.php?r=r01
French http://www.iefd.org/lang/fr01.php?r=r01
German http://www.iefd.org/lang/de01.php?r=r01
Greek http://www.iefd.org/lang/el01.php?r=r01
Hindi http://www.iefd.org/lang/hi01.php?r=r01
Italian http://www.iefd.org/lang/it01.php?r=r01
Japanese http://www.iefd.org/lang/ja01.php?r=r01
Korean http://www.iefd.org/lang/ko01.php?r=r01


Portuguese http://www.iefd.org/lang/pt01.php?r=r01
Russian http://www.iefd.org/lang/ru01.php?r=r01
Spanish http://www.iefd.org/lang/es01.php?r=r01
Turkish http://www.iefd.org/lang/tr01.php?r=r01

====================================================================

KEEP INFORMED
If you wish to be kept informed of later developments in our project
(in English), please send us your name and country by e-mail to
info@iefd.org with "mailing list" in the subject line.

===================================================================

diane fishbein
513 961 0066

5/6
vivian Klein, salonista, artist, good person, sends article (here’s the link:
<http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/04/17/AR2006041701259.html>  ) telling why Gore should be our next Democratic presidential nominee.  Interesting.  

5/6
Mike  Murphy sends this link to an article  he liked a lot ab out transisitoning to a sustainable society:
http://socialwork.arts.unsw.edu.au/tsw/D75.ThoughtsonTrans.html
the link.

Here’s a few  lines:
Thoughts on
THE TRANSITION
To a Sustainable Society
by Ted Trainer, Australia


Only when we are clear about the nature of our global predicament and the radical system changes that are needed, and about the form a sustainable society must take, are we in a position to think about the best way to work for the transition.

     The predicament: Consumer-capitalist society is grossly unsustainable and unjust.  We are far beyond levels...

to read the w hole article go to: http://socialwork.arts.unsw.edu.au/tsw/D75.ThoughtsonTrans.html

5/6 And herer’s an article by Mike Murphy himself on sustainability:
Sustainable Living, Urban & Rural

by Mike Murphy

     ‘Sustainable living,’ to me, means living today so as not to compromise
someone living

 tomorrow.    Doing it in the city means having garden space sufficient to
feed yourself and friends and visitors and neighbors.  This could be done in
an empty lot, on your roof, or in your yard—or all of the above.  How much
space? The average backyard.

     John Jeavons of Bountiful Gardens in Willits, CA, tells us in "The
Backyard Homestead Mini-Farm & Garden Log Book", "We have found that 100
square feet can easily produce all the vegetables for one person in a
6-month growing season.  On the average, each person in the United States
eats 322 pounds of vegetables and soft fruits such as melons and
strawberries each year.  Our research has shown that a 100 square foot
garden, in other words, the average suburban backyard, can easily produce
that--up to 1.8 pounds per day, assuming you are an average gardener with a
working knowledge of the biodynamic/French intensive method"--which Jeavons
shows you in this book, and its classic companion, "How To Grow More
Vegetables Than You Ever Thought Possible On Less Land Than You Can
Imagine."

     If the Jeavons method is not to your likeing, you can look to the east
coast, to Eliot Coleman up in the state of Maine, and make use of his
‘four-season harvest’ with polyethylene tunnel season extenders. Yes, I
realize poly is a petro product; but using it to extend the growing season,
rather than burning it, is more sustainable.  Or a pit greenhouse with south
side glass. Or a geo-exchange ground-source heat pump, which Russell Finch
uses in the Nebraska panhandle to grow greenhouse oranges.  Or maybe Montana
John Hait's ‘passive annual heat storage’ [PAHS] system.

      Of course, you'll need substantial storage of rice, beans and
butternut squash, plus other items.  If you’re going to buy in bulk, may as
well form a Bulk Food Buying Club, if you’re not already in one.  I know one
operates along Enright Ave where Imago is.  Click on www.imagoearth.org, or
maybe call 513-921-5124.

     You may also want to ask your Bulk Food Club to commit to buying
locally-grown as much as possible.  Once the word gets out to local farmers
that local produce-to-be-stored [such as butternut squash or potatoes or
apples or walnuts, etc.] is being bought regularly by your club, growers
will begin to seek your business and grow for you.

     Locally grown and prepared relishes and salsas should also be sought
out.  They can really perk up an otherwise bland winter meal.  Down at
Findlay Market, I bought a case of 6 Chinese Plum Sauce made in Kentucky,
and gave away 5 as Christmas gifts.  I like this plum sauce, because it is
made with peppers, of course,  and so not very likely to be used quickly
like applesauce or jelly. It is definitely delicious.  And it sticks in the
mind much longer than it sticks to your ribs.  And thereby reminds you of
what locally-grown can mean. Makes you think about all the other benefits.
I also bought a small jar of pickled hot peppers, and every now and then I
cut some up and add it to my store-bought [Clifton Natural Foods] canned
tomato sauce to make a hot sauce.  Still have half a jar left.

     Join or start a CSA, a community supported agriculture farm.  Get your
produce locally-grown and locally-delivered to your favorite pick-up spot.
Farm-To-Market CSA gathers fresh produce from several farms, over a 30-week
season, from mid-April to mid-November.  They will be delivering to2 or 3
pick-up sites—Findlay Market, Imago on Enright Ave., and possibly Northside
Market.  A full share/box will cost $50/week, and will feed two vegans.
Contact Earth & Sky Farms, 516 Enright Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45205.  The main
organizers are Julie Yarden, and Sallie Ransohoff.  Sallie, whose farm is
located in Clermont County,  was just profiled in Cincinnati Magazine, which
on the cover called her “The woman behind the best chefs in town.”

     Following the food trail, it will be wise at some point to think of
purchasing a metro-community farm, your own urban CSA to live on and help
operate.  This could be simply a group house with a large yard that becomes
a garden.  Or two houses with an empty but garden-able lot in between.  Or a
honest-to-god farm.



Sustainable Rural Living

      There are still a few affordable farms around, considering $200,000 to
be close to what you might pay for any urban or suburban
two-family-with-garden space.  I know of a farm about an hour’s drive east
of Cincinnati , next door to Sallie Ransohoff’s second farm, out by
Fayetteville, that has a well-maintained house plus several equally
well-maintained outbuildings on 50-plus good and flat farmland acres, for
only $223,000.

     My thinking is that a group of a dozen or more folks might form a
corporation to buy the farm, then sell it on land-contract to a land-trust
composed of the CSA folks and resident farmers. Most of the farmable
land—say, 40 acres--could be leased out to a local farmer who already leases
land from Sallie, for growing oats.

     What’s good about growing oats is you get two crops for one.  One is
the oats, good for for people, as well as horses.

     And you get the straw.

      What is the straw good for? Mulching, for one.

      And, because there are well-maintained outbuildings on this farm, one
could be converted to living space, perhaps only dormitory space, and the
straw-bales could be used for exterior insulation.  Click on
www.thelaststraw.org  Or,  a whole new straw-bale, 2-story building could be
built.  The same www.thelaststraw.org site shows a 2-story strawbale
structure with load-bearing walls [!], that has a restaurant on the first
floor and--get this--a dance floor on the second!!



Further Amenities, Urban Or Rural

      Then there’s the water needed.  Sure, you’ve got a faucet.  But then
you’re counting on the city water system.  Maybe it would be good to capture
and store rain water.

     Then, of course, we’d like a gray-water system of cascading ponds with
cattails and fish, receiving soapy water from the kitchen sink, washing
machine and bath tub, transforming the soapy water to irrigation water.
Many such systems are quite attractive, and could certainly be done is some
places in the city, and almost anyplace in the country.

     We can also have a kitchen compost system, indoors, with earthworms in
it, turning it to excellent ‘worm castings’, outstandingly rich food for the
soil.    This could be created with three ‘mud buckets,’ or 5-gallon
dry-wall plaster buckets with holes drilled in their bottoms.  Maybe four,
the fourth [bottom bucket] one with NO holes, being the liquid drain bucket.
And a place to dump your finished product for later use in your garden.

     If the health code permits, we need to have a composting toilet or two.
In some localities, the health code will say you need a flush toilet as a
back-up for your compost toilet.  So, since virtually all houses already
have flush toilets, we could add a composting toilet to our home, and let
that flush toilet be our un-used back up.  A classic book in this area is
“The Toilet Papers,” by Sim vander Rin.  I’d say go to New World Books and
get the copy locally, but they’ve closed.  Amazon has these for about $11.
Imagine that: Used “Toilet Papers,” $11.00.

     Now, water use is way down.  So is sewer use.  Or septic system use.
Thus, monthly or regular maintenance household expenses go down.

     We're moving off the grid.



Sustainable Transportation

     Walking is the most sustainable.  Or bicycling.  Real Goods catalog has
a solar scooter for about $1200.  And John Howe in his “The End of Fossil
Energy & the Last Chance for Sustainability” has a SPUV [solar powered
utility vehicle] you can build yourself, or get a group together to build.
Maybe your local high school shop class.  Or the community college. Or ….

     Idea is to have transportation for getting around your local 25-mile
radius.  If you're in the city, the city bus system is very useful, of
course.



Mike Murphy 4-10-2006

............and mike appends t his article by Greg Palast, a fire-eating journalist:

GANGSTER GOVERNMENT: A LEAKY PRESIDENT RUNS AFOUL OF 'LITTLE RICO'
Buzzflash
by Greg Palast
Sunday, April 9, 2006

It's a crime. No kidding. But the media has it all wrong. As usual.

'Scooter' Libby finally outed 'Mr. Big,' the perpetrator of the heinous
disclosure of the name of secret agent Valerie Plame. It was the President
of United States himself -- in conspiracy with his Vice-President. Now the
pundits are arguing over whether our war-a-holic President had the legal
right to leak this national security information. But, that's a fake debate
meant to distract you.  OK, let's accept the White House alibi that
releasing Plame's identity was no crime. But if that's true, they've
committed a BIGGER crime: Bush and Cheney knowingly withheld vital
information from a grand jury investigation, a multimillion dollar inquiry
the perps themselves authorized. That's akin to calling in a false fire
alarm or calling the cops for a burglary that never happened -- but far, far
worse. Let's not forget that in the hunt for the perpetrator of this
non-crime, reporter Judith Miller went to jail. Think about that. While
Miller sat in a prison cell, Bush and Cheney were laughing their heads off,
knowing the grand jury testimony, the special prosecutor's subpoenas and the
FBI's terrorizing newsrooms were nothing but fake props in Bush's elaborate
charade, Cheney's Big Con.

On February 10, 2004, our not-so-dumb-as-he-sounds President stated,
"Listen, I know of nobody -- I don't know of anybody in my administration
who leaked classified information. If somebody did leak classified
information, I'd like to know it, and we'll take the appropriate action. And
this investigation is a good thing. ...And if people have got solid
information, please come forward with it." Notice Bush's cleverly crafted
words. He says he can't name anyone who leaked this "classified" info --  
knowing full well he'd de-classified it. Far from letting Bush off the hook,
it worsens the crime. For years, I worked as a government investigator and,
let me tell you, Bush and Cheney withholding material information from the
grand jury is a felony. Several felonies, actually: abuse of legal process,
fraud, racketeering and, that old standby, obstruction of justice.

If you or I had manipulated the legal system this way, we'd be breaking
rocks on a chain gang. We wouldn't even get a trial -- most judges would
consider this a "fraud upon the court" and send us to the slammer in minutes
using the bench's power to administer instant punishment for contempt of the
judicial system.  Why'd they do it? The White House junta did the deed for
the most evil of motives: to hoodwink the public during the 2004 election
campaign, to pretend that evil anti-Bush elements were undermining the
Republic, when it was the Bush element itself at the center of the
conspiracy. (Notably, elections trickery also motivated Richard Nixon's
"plumbers" to break into the Watergate, then the Democratic Party campaign
headquarters.)

Let me draft the indictment for you as I would have were I still a
government gumshoe:

"Perpetrator Lewis Libby (alias, 'Scooter') contacted Miller; while John Doe
1 contacted perpetrators' shill at the Washington Post, Bob Woodward, in
furtherance of a scheme directed by George Bush (alias 'The POTUS') and Dick
Cheney (alias, 'The Veep') to release intelligence information fraudulently
proffered as 'classified,' and thereinafter, knowingly withheld material
evidence from a grand jury empanelled to investigate said disclosure.
Furthermore,
perpetrator 'The POTUS' made material statements designed to deceive
investigators and knowingly misrepresent his state of knowledge of the
facts."

Statements aimed at misleading grand jury investigators are hard-time
offenses. It doesn't matter that Bush's too-clever little quip was made to
the press and not under oath. I've cited press releases and comments in the
New York Times in court as evidence of fraud. By not swearing to his
disingenuous statement, Bush gets off the perjury hook, but he committed a
crime nonetheless, "deliberate concealment."

Here's how the law works (and hopefully, it will). The Bush gang's use of
the telephone in this con game constituted wire fraud. Furthermore, while
presidents may leak ("declassify") intelligence information, they may not
obstruct justice; that is, send a grand jury on a wild goose chase. Under
the 'RICO' statute (named after the Edward G. Robinson movie mobster,
'Little Rico'), the combination of these crimes makes the Bush executive
branch a "racketeering enterprise." So, book'm, Dan-o. Time to read The
POTUS and The Veep their rights.

After setting their bail (following the impeachments and removals, of
course), a judge will have a more intriguing matter to address. The RICO law
requires the Feds to seize all "ill-gotten gains" of a racketeering
enterprise, even before trial. Usually we're talking fast cars and diamond
bling. But in this case, the conspirators' purloined booty includes a stolen
election and a fraudulently obtained authorization for war. I see no reason
why a judge could not impound the 82d Airborne as "fruits of the fraud " --  
lock, stock and gun barrels -- and bring the boys home.

And if justice is to be done we will will also have to run yellow tape
across the gates at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue -- "CRIME SCENE - DO NOT
ENTER" -- and return the White House to its rightful owners, the American
people, the victims of this gangster government.
**************************************************************************************************

Former racketeering investigator Greg Palast is author of "ARMED MADHOUSE:
Dispatches from the Front Lines of the Class War," to be released in June.
Subscribe to the new podcast of our columns at www.GregPalast.com


Section Four: Books/Magazines/Reviews


Ellen,

...
At some point perhaps arrange Abraham Salon (idea from book "
Abraham" by
Bruce Feiler).  Feiler goes on a search for Abraham, the ancestor of
Judaism, Christianity and Islam, looks at common roots and how each faith
interpreted Abraham "as needed" for its particular purposes.  He shares a
vision of unity, part of which is meeting in small groups (Abraham Salons)
with representatives of (ideally) each of the religions.  Not that a
particular format is required, but here's some more info.

http://www.brucefeiler.com/discuss/start.html

Brigitte Waldman-Thomas

The name of book by Jim Wallis is "God's Politics:  Why the Right gets It Wrong and the Left Doesn't Get It".  Wallis was the speaker we heard at XU on March 27.  Gerry Kraus

4/27/06
I have been listening to an unabridged CD recording of Shalimar the Clown by Salman Rushdie. I knew (from Fury) that Rushdie is a rich banquet  of delicious words, compelling characters, gripping plot.  What I didn’t know was that Shalimar would open up the land and culture of Kashmir and its people, and lay open the tragedy of it’s civil war (in the ‘80s?)  What I didn’t know was that it would illuminate Islamic militant fundamentalism.  Remember that Rushdie was the author who was placed under death sentence by the Ayatolla of Iran for his sacrilege in Satanic Verses.  I can’t get enough of t his guy.  Next I will read Satanic Verses.  Join me anyone?  Ellen
P.S. I take this guy as gospel about Islamic terrorism.  This book has brought me through the fire and without softening a thing touches my  heart and gives me compassion for them.  (!)





The Lloyd House Salon (usually about 15 people) Meets Mondays at 5:45,
EVERY MONDAY, 52 WEEKS/YEAR come hell or high water, as my mother used to say.

We of the
Lloyd House Salon gather in a spirit of
respect, sympathy and compassion for one another
in order to exchange ideas for our mut
ual pleasure and enlightenment.  

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Our Salon blog is a promising interactive site:   
http:lloydhouse.blogspot.com
   Interactive Yah
oo Salon group, http://groups.yahoo.com/group/LloydHouseSalon
We have 45 members as of 7/05.  
For Pot Luck  procedures
i
ncluding  food suggestions, mission and history visit
http://home.fuse.net/ellenbierhorst/Potluck.html   .

You are invited also to visit the Lloyd House website:  http://www.lloydhouse.com



> To unsubscribe from the Lloyd House Potluck
Salon list, send a REPLY message
> to me and in the SUBJECT li
ne type in "unsub potluck #".  In the place of #
> type in the numeral that follows the subject line of my Weekly email.  It
> will be 1,2, 3, 4, 5, or 6.  This tells me which sub-list your name is on so I can  
> delete it.  Thanks!   ellen bierhorst     

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