And BTW, Dr. Katsura Kuwahara will present on the move to change the Japanese constitution from the pacifist McArthur constitution to one allowing warfare. Why we should care about this. Ellen
Salon Weekly
~ In 4 Color-Coded Sections:
- Table Notes
- Events & Opportunities
- Articles, Letters (“opinions expressed are not necessarily mine”...ellen)
- Books, Reviews, Films, Magazines
- Tri-State Treasures: compiled by Jim Kesner
A Weekly Email Publication of The Lloyd House: Circulation: 650. Growing out
of the Wednesday Night Salon . For info about the Salon, see the bottom of
this email. Join us at the Lloyd House every week of the year at 5:45 for pot
luck and discussion. 3901 Clifton Avenue Cincinnati, Ohio. To Submit events
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(to unsubscribe see below, bottom of page).
................................................... Section One: Table Notes ............................................................................ (Note: these notes were taken at the table and have NOT been approved or corrected by the speakers. Reader beware of inevitable misunderstandings and misrepresentations. E.B.)
At the table Wednesday 12/3/08
Ellen, Dan Finke, Rob Nendawhaab, Denis Kinsley, Derek Lester, Antoinette Asimus, Richard Asimus, Susan Rivers-payne, Spencer Konicov, Adrienne Cooper, Katsura Kuwahara , Mr. G., Mira Rodwan, Janet Kalven, Bill Limbacher, Sandy Wittstein (Welcome Asimus’, Susan, Katsura.)
The following email was sent by Dan on 11/23 and should have been included in our last Weekly.
Ellen,
My name is Dan Finke and I am a Medicare Sales Consultant. I have been helping seniors in the medicare market for the last four years. I represent Anthem, Aetna, United Health Care and Conventry.
My main focus for seniors is in the area of Medicare Advantage Plans and Prescription Drug Plans. From 11/15 to 12/31 every year is the annual election period and from 1/1/09 to 3/31/09 is the open enrollment period. In order to enroll in a Medicare Advantage Plan you must have your Medicare Card with A & B.
I will be at your meeting on December 3, 2008 at 5:45PM. I am looking forward to meeting you.
My telephone number is 513-535-8743.
Dan Finke
dnfinke@fuse.net
Dan’s presentation (also see NY times article on these plans, below in “Articles”)
I’ve been in insur. Since 1973, 36yrs. My own agency. Now an independent broker. There are many questions re. options once you are 65. (hand out.)
Medicare is fed. Health insur. Program. For those over 65, and some under that age. ...
Part A: hospitalization
Part B: Dr. bills, out pt. costs
Part C: Medicare Advantage
Part D: drugs
Eligibility: must have part A & B...
You have basically two options at 65: original medicare, supplement,+ drug plan.
Original medicare they pay 80%, you pay 20%. So you can purchase supplement from any private insurance co.
I’d be glad to make a presentation at your house.
When you get your social security check 96.40 is diverted each month for Medicare B. If you enroll in a medicare Advantage plan, the 96.40 goes to the insurance company that you are enrolled in. The Advantage Plans must offer all the original Medicare benefits and may also include drug benefits.
Jan, Feb, Mar is annual open enrollment period for anyone who already has comparable coverage (i.e. Another Advantage plan). Certain others may enroll after March.
3 types of Advantage plans
HMO: they have a list of providers and you must use those. Outside the network, zero coverage. You have to get a referal from your PCP for any specialist, and the specialist must be in the network.
PPO (preferred provider organization) the same, but you have coverage outside network, though a lot less.
PFFS (Private fee for service) No network, you can go to any hospital or provider. The providers get higher fees. 100% of the Medicare rates.
United has a HMO, with a zero monthly premium.
Anthem, PPO, with $19/mon premium.
Humana’s PFFS has risen from 0 to $45 permium per month. I was with them myself until June because they are raising premiums.
Coventry, Aetna, the premium is 0.
Also consider the percentage benefit for various tests...
Each plan has tiers in the Rx drug pplans.
Do they have to take me regardless of my health condition? Yes, unless end stage renal disease.
Every Advantage plan has a maximum out of pocket, e.g. $4,000 per year after which they pay %100.
Drug plans: tier 1: generic drugs. Tier 2 – 4 relate to types of drugs, brand names, and different co-payments. E.g. Lipitor, for some companies it is a Tier 3, others are Tier 2, which means different costs for you.
You can change your Advantage program every year.
The new carrier (insur. Co.) will pick up all pre-existing conditions.
(ellen: Is there free lunch? Actually, at present there is for us, the subscribers. The fed. Gov’t as Medicare pays the insurance company something like 13% more than what the average cost is for Medicare to pay for a regular Medicare-only person. That’s why the Insur. Co. can afford to give you more benefits. However, the Obama administration has said that they don’t want to continue paying this to the Advantage companies. It has been a hand out to the insurance companies, has not benefited the tax payer, the fed. Gov’t.)
(The donut hole?) The gap is on drugs. You pay your co payents until your total Rx out of pocket will be $2700; then after that you pay 100% of the Rx cost until you have paid out $4005 total out of pocket that year. After that, Rx costs $2 per generic and $5 for brand name.
Mira Anyone who has seen “Sicko” knows there are many preferable programs.
Dan I cannot imagine that the gov’t will cancel the Advantage plans because there are too many Americans enrolled.
Sandy I have regular Medicare. I also have insurance thru State Teachers’ Retirement. (Don’t change that! No gap, no donut hole. ) But I didn’t teach for 30 years to get the full benefit, only about 15. I still get some help. Is that as good as Advantage programs?
Dan I’d have to look at your benefits. ...
... The monthly premiums vary from 0 to $78/month. The ones I am selling range from 0 to $36/month.
Spencer I am 67. Never bought part D. I take 2 generic drugs/day. I get them $4/month each. How could I improve on that?
Dan: if you had a surgery, you’d have to pay out (... Large number) but if you had Advantage plan, nothing.
Dick: if I am not drawing social security, how do I pay the Medicare premium?
Dan You pay it every three months.
Dick I will turn 65 next Sept. When do I start this process?
Dan 3 mos. Prior to your birthday you can enroll in the Advantage plan...(more details) ... I’d be more than glad to meet with you to help you pick your plan.
KATSURA Presentation
Mira: Katsura has joined us often for the Monday evening “Women in Black “ peace vigil 4:30-5:30 pm corner Central Pkw & Vine St. she just got PhD in child development; cochlea implant. Comes f rom Japan. Recently in Japan she learned:
Katsura:
The Japanese gov’t constitution is up for change. The current constitution includes prohibition of war. The gov’t wants to change it because Japan participates in the Iraq war. ... Recently there has grown up a class of poor for the first time in a long time...
In Japan we have basic health insurance plus a medicare thing for the elderly. It is getting ridiculous, unfair.
The constitution we have was given by Gen. McArthur.
Noam Chomsky supports the constitution as it is.
ANNOUNCEMENTS AT TABLE
Spencer: free bread in the living room.
Almost no acorns this year due to wind storm in spring, and the squirrels are hungry. They love the bread.
Bill: due to the vagaries of the economy I have lost my job and am seeking the support of the state.
Mira: Nina Tolley is giving a talk 10- 12 Sat at 1st UU Church, Reading & Linton, on End of Life Issues. E.g. Who will take care of dependent, retarded adult children when the parents near end of life. Nina worked many years at Cancer Family Care.
Foreground: Janet, Adrienne, Katsura, Walter, Richard, Antoinette
Back: Mira, Mr. G., Sandy, Bill, Susan, Spencer, Dennis
(Missing: Derek, Dan, Rob, Ellen)
~ End of Table Notes~
- Hugs to everyone,
Ellen
Section Two: Events & Opportunities
I am so pleased to announce that Gregory Thorp is coming to town and we will have another of his legendary slide shows. Do try to make it. Spiritually nourishing nature slides projected in sparkling color. Traditional Gregory themes: corn fields, corn plants, corn husks, corn kernels... Barges and bridges on the river... Union Terminal mosaics... Rail Road cars, couplings, tracks, crossings... Cinti vistas... Jake the pony... New England scenes...
Show will be Sat. Dec 6 at 7 pm in the zendo, third floor. Don’t ring, just come up. Bring wine and snacks if you like. I can’t wait.
Ellen
3901 Clifton Ave. 45220 (park on Lafayette Ave.)
You can google Gregory Thorp and get some wonderful stuff to give you a taste. Gregory Thorp (no e).
Intercommunity Justice and Peace Center* will be having its . . .
6th annual St. Nick Day Holiday Fundraiser Sale
on Saturday December 6th
from 10 am - 2pm.
IJPC is located in Peaslee Neighborhood Center at 215 E. 14th Street, Cincinnati OH 45202.
We will be selling fair-trade items from all over the world. Your purchase helps benefit artisans from around the world as well as IJPC!
Items For Sale:
- Peace Calendars, Gifts, Children's Books from Syracuse Cultural Workers!
- Fair Trade Coffee, Tea, and Hot Chocolate
- Artwork from Death Row Inmates
- Products from International Artisans from Madagascar,Ecuador, El Salvador, Peru, and Ghana
- Carol Rainey's Book
- Homemade candles and ornaments from Sr. Alice
- *Local Artisan Elaine Adams will also be there demonstrating the art of making pottery*
-
-------
* That’s the cool group of activists headed by Sr. Alice Gerdeman... Peace, death penalty abolishment, justice, ... Great folks! ellen
“CHANGE IS COMING” OPEN POTLUCK ON WED. 12/17 Here
We will invite people from the Obama web engine to join us at the Salon ...
Here’s what it says on the web invitation...
Change Coming Potluck (Change is Coming)
We will gather at the Lloyd House, 3901 Clifton Ave. 45220 (please park on Lafayette Ave) at 5:45 for pot luck and discussion "What can I do for change?" until 8 pm.
This is an extension of our regular weekly Wednesday gathering. Join us! It's going to take ALL of us to pull our society/world out of the "fire". Local community is where it's at. Ellen Bierhorst
http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/gsxb98
MORTGAGE/HOUSING CRISIS EXPLAINED (really!)
Check this out, “This American Life” show produced by Alex Blumberg (son of Richard and Joan) explaining “the giant pool of money” and...
Listen to 30 min. show for free: http://www.thislife.org/Radio_Episode.aspx?episode=355
AND ALSO: another explanatory show about the wider economic crisis from the same people:
http://www.thisamericanlife.org/Radio_Episode.aspx?episode=365
ALSO the same folks have a daily blog that explains as the news unfolds: http://www.npr.org/blogs/money/
The EarthSave Annual
Holiday Vegan Potluck Party
4:30pm, Sunday, December 14, 2008
Clifton United Methodist Church
3416 Clifton Avenue
Enjoy Good Company and Good Food!
Live music with Lagniappe Cajun Band
Please bring a vegan dish to share
and your own plates, cups, utensils
Remember to take home everything you brought that is not compostable.
EarthSave educates people about the powerful effects our food choices have on the environment,
our health and all life on earth, and encourages a shift toward a healthy plant-based diet.
For more information call: 513-929-2500
Email: cincinnati@earthsave.org
Visit: http://cincinnati.earthsave.org
Everyone Welcome!
Sierra Club says: IMPORTANT LEGISLATIVE ACTIONS ON ENVIRONMENT
Lame Ducks (politicians, not real ducks) are trying to slip a lot of very dangerous changes to laws through state & federal legislatures. The following link will take you to a Sierra Club site that has prepared emails on actionable issues.
https://secure2.convio.net/sierra/site/Advocacy?page=ActionAlertTakenPage&id=1235
TAKE ACTION NOW OR CRY LATER!!!
Rob Nendahwaab
This comes from the latest edition of IJPC's hardcopy newsletter. Find the whole newsletter at www.ijpc-cincinnati.org
Nuclear Weapon Free World
Veteran Cold War Warriors Sam Nunn, William Perry, Henry Kissinger, and George Schultz all have called for the elimination of nuclear weapons. They have been facilitating meetings with all nuclear-weapon possessing states throughout the year, making it clear that “if the nuclear powers wish to be safe from nuclear weapons they must surrender their own.”
“SALT WATER CAN RUN CAR!”
Forwarded by David rosenberg:
This came to me from a friend of mine out west. There is no doubt that
radio waves produced by this invention can hydrolyze water (into hydrogen
and oxygen). What I haven't seen yet is what the input / output net energy
ratio is. I was hoping you could put this into the weekly and see if anyone
has heard anything else about this invention.
David
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aGg0ATfoBgo
Neil Schapera, premier Alexander Technique teacher is now available at the Lloyd House on Thursday afternoons. Call him: 513 608 3695
We are fortunate indeed to have a senior teacher of the Alexander Technique in our area, and now especially fortunate to have him available for lessons at the Lloyd House. Neil is a “full spectrum” teacher, addresses all sorts of issues, but is especially experienced in the area of geriatric wellbeing.
Neil and Vivien came here from South Africa in 1993 with their two sons, now university students at U.C. They are recognized internationally as leaders in the technique. ... And they are my mentors in the teacher training course that I expect to complete, after 3 years, this coming June, 2009.
For more information about Neil and the Alexander Technique: http://www.schapera.com/
IDEAS FOR MENTAL HEALTH:
(See my pieces on wellness in my website http://www.lloydhouse.com ... Useful pieces about insomnia, eating disorder, visiting family at holidays, etc.)
Everyone needs a psychologist sometime in their life.
Ellen Bierhorst Ph.D. is a good one. In practice over 30 years. 513 221 1289
Areas of particular interest: 12 Step Program support; Family and Relationship issues; Young Adult Issues; Chronic Illness and Senior Adult Issues; Lesbian/Gay/Bisexual/Transgendered Issues, Holistic Wellness (body/mind/spirit approach), Clinical Hypnosis, EMDR.
- Get a fresh perspective. Sort out tangles in interpersonal relationships. Clear away the messes of the past. Become empowered to launch your new life. Heal trauma, change, loss. Escape from the bondage of addictive behavior(alcohol, drugs, food, tobacco, gambling, etc.)
- Central location (Clifton Ave. at Lafayette)
- Beautiful setting (The historic Lloyd House)
- Many health insurance plans will pay a percentage. (Standard fee $125/hour. Some pro bono work available.)
- Compassion and good humor.
- Rapid results.
Larry Falkin, city’s environmental officer, calls meeting on CITY CARBON OFFSET
From Howard Konicov:
Larry & Carla & Bridget (in David Peppers Office & Kathy) et al; Dear all,
Larry Falkin in OEQ has agreed to schedule a working group meeting for the new City of Cincinnati Carbon Offset Commission. (Larry, thank you & Larry when is this?)
According to my information to date this should probably include:
Bridget, David Peppers Office {according to Kathy in Commissioner Portune's Office}
Brad Mank, EAC
OKI representative
OEQ or Mayor's representative
Myself, Charles Tassle & others.
If anyone else would like to participate please let Larry know..
Overview: The City of Cincinnati Carbon Offset Commission was a recommendation of the Energy Task Force of the Mayor's Commission on Climate Change which was adopted by the Commission & the City of Cincinnati.
Purpose: To have a Certified, read credible, regional carbon offset clearinghouse to both (a) provide Carbon Offset Credits and to (b) fund high quality carbon offset projects, locally.
Agenda Items: (if you have more please send them to Larry)
Legal Structure; What is it? Independent? Who runs it?
Standard for a Carbon Credit; What is it? What is the process?
Transparency; Financial, is it? How do we insure it?
Review the documentation for the recommendation, at the top of the agenda.
Economic discussion of how to incentive this developing industry here.
Finally, If there is anything I can do to further help facilitate this process please let me know. Happy Holidays.
Sincerely,
Howard Konikov <hkonicov@gmail.com>
MSES/MPA IU School of Public & Environmental Affairs;
Bachelor of Arts in Economics Washington University in St. Louis
Former EAC Chairman 2002-2003
Executive Director The Synthesis Foundation
YOGA at Lloyd House. Wednesdays 9:15 – 10:30 am. Open, free practice group led by Nina Tolley.
ArticlesTai Chi practice group Sundays 10:15 a.m. Led by Jackie Millay.
Michael Moore: not one dime for the auto execs; buy the companies, run them green!
Saving the Big 3 for You and Me ...a message from Michael Moore
Wednesday, December 3rd, 2008
Friends,
I drive an American car. It's a Chrysler. That's not an endorsement. It's more like a cry for pity. And now for a decades-old story, retold ad infinitum by tens of millions of Americans, a third of whom have had to desert their country to simply find a damn way to get to work in something that won't break down:
My Chrysler is four years old. I bought it because of its smooth and comfortable ride. Daimler-Benz owned the company then and had the good grace to place the Chrysler chassis on a Mercedes axle and, man, was that a sweet ride!
When it would start.
More than a dozen times in these years, the car has simply died. Batteries have been replaced, but that wasn't the problem. My dad drives the same model. His car has died many times, too. Just won't start, for no reason at all.
A few weeks ago, I took my Chrysler in to the Chrysler dealer here in northern Michigan -- and the latest fixes cost me $1,400. The next day, the vehicle wouldn't start. When I got it going, the brake warning light came on. And on and on.
You might assume from this that I couldn't give a rat's ass about these miserably inept crapmobile makers down the road in Detroit city. But I do care. I care about the millions whose lives and livelihoods depend on these car companies. I care about the security and defense of this country because the world is running out of oil -- and when it runs out, the calamity and collapse that will take place will make the current recession/depression look like a Tommy Tune musical.
And I care about what happens with the Big 3 because they are more responsible than almost anyone for the destruction of our fragile atmosphere and the daily melting of our polar ice caps.
Congress must save the industrial infrastructure that these companies control and the jobs they create. And it must save the world from the internal combustion engine. This great, vast manufacturing network can redeem itself by building mass transit and electric/hybrid cars, and the kind of transportation we need for the 21st century.
And Congress must do all this by NOT giving GM, Ford and Chrysler the $34 billion they are asking for in "loans" (a few days ago they only wanted $25 billion; that's how stupid they are -- they don't even know how much they really need to make this month's payroll. If you or I tried to get a loan from the bank this way, not only would we be thrown out on our ear, the bank would place us on some sort of credit rating blacklist).
Two weeks ago, the CEOs of the Big 3 were tarred and feathered before a Congressional committee who sneered at them in a way far different than when the heads of the financial industry showed up two months earlier. At that time, the politicians tripped over each other in their swoon for Wall Street and its Ponzi schemers who had concocted Byzantine ways to bet other people's money on unregulated credit default swaps, known in the common vernacular as unicorns and fairies.
But the Detroit boys were from the Midwest, the Rust (yuk!) Belt, where they made real things that consumers needed and could touch and buy, and that continually recycled money into the economy (shocking!), produced unions that created the middle class, and fixed my teeth for free when I was ten.
For all of that, the auto heads had to sit there in November and be ridiculed about how they traveled to D.C. Yes, they flew on their corporate jets, just like the bankers and Wall Street thieves did in October. But, hey, THAT was OK! They're the Masters of the Universe! Nothing but the best chariots for Big Finance as they set about to loot our nation's treasury.
Of course, the auto magnates used be the Masters who ruled the world. They were the pulsating hub that all other industries -- steel, oil, cement contractors -- served. Fifty-five years ago, the president of GM sat on that same Capitol Hill and bluntly told Congress, what's good for General Motors is good for the country. Because, you see, in their minds, GM WAS the country.
What a long, sad fall from grace we witnessed on November 19th when the three blind mice had their knuckles slapped and then were sent back home to write an essay called, "Why You Should Give Me Billions of Dollars of Free Cash." They were also asked if they would work for a dollar a year. Take that! What a big, brave Congress they are! Requesting indentured servitude from (still) three of the most powerful men in the world. This from a spineless body that won't dare stand up to a disgraced president nor turn down a single funding request for a war that neither they nor the American public support. Amazing.
Let me just state the obvious: Every single dollar Congress gives these three companies will be flushed right down the toilet. There is nothing the management teams of the Big 3 are going to do to convince people to go out during a recession and buy their big, gas-guzzling, inferior products. Just forget it. And, as sure as I am that the Ford family-owned Detroit Lions are not going to the Super Bowl -- ever -- I can guarantee you, after they burn through this $34 billion, they'll be back for another $34 billion next summer.
So what to do? Members of Congress, here's what I propose:
1. Transporting Americans is and should be one of the most important functions our government must address. And because we are facing a massive economic, energy and environmental crisis, the new president and Congress must do what Franklin Roosevelt did when he was faced with a crisis (and ordered the auto industry to stop building cars and instead build tanks and planes): The Big 3 are, from this point forward, to build only cars that are not primarily dependent on oil and, more importantly to build trains, buses, subways and light rail (a corresponding public works project across the country will build the rail lines and tracks). This will not only save jobs, but create millions of new ones.
2. You could buy ALL the common shares of stock in General Motors for less than $3 billion. Why should we give GM $18 billion or $25 billion or anything? Take the money and buy the company! (You're going to demand collateral anyway if you give them the "loan," and because we know they will default on that loan, you're going to own the company in the end as it is. So why wait? Just buy them out now.)
3. None of us want government officials running a car company, but there are some very smart transportation geniuses who could be hired to do this. We need a Marshall Plan to switch us off oil-dependent vehicles and get us into the 21st century.
This proposal is not radical or rocket science. It just takes one of the smartest people ever to run for the presidency to pull it off. What I'm proposing has worked before. The national rail system was in shambles in the '70s. The government took it over. A decade later it was turning a profit, so the government returned it to private/public hands, and got a couple billion dollars put back in the treasury.
This proposal will save our industrial infrastructure -- and millions of jobs. More importantly, it will create millions more. It literally could pull us out of this recession.
In contrast, yesterday General Motors presented its restructuring proposal to Congress. They promised, if Congress gave them $18 billion now, they would, in turn, eliminate around 20,000 jobs. You read that right. We give them billions so they can throw more Americans out of work. That's been their Big Idea for the last 30 years -- layoff thousands in order to protect profits. But no one ever stopped to ask this question: If you throw everyone out of work, who's going to have the money to go out and buy a car?
These idiots don't deserve a dime. Fire all of them, and take over the industry for the good of the workers, the country and the planet.
What's good for General Motors IS good for the country. Once the country is calling the shots.
Yours,
Michael Moore
MMFlint@aol.com
MichaelMoore.com
P.S. I will be on Keith Olbermann tonight (8pm/10pm/midnight ET) to discuss this further on MSNBC.
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I noticed that you were having a Medicare presentation tomorrow. Thought this might be of interest… David Rosenberg
Studies Say Private Medicare Plans Have Added Costs, for Little Gain
By ROBERT PEAR
Published NY times: November 23, 2008
WASHINGTON — Private health insurance plans, which serve nearly a fourth of all Medicare beneficiaries, have increased the cost and complexity of the program without any evidence of improving care, researchers say in studies to be published Monday.
Related
Times Topics: Medicare
The studies, questioning the value of some private plans for Medicare beneficiaries and taxpayers, were issued as President-elect Barack Obama and Congressional Democrats take aim at the plans and consider cutting the payments they receive.
Enrollment in private Medicare plans has nearly doubled in five years, to 10.1 million.
In one study, Marsha Gold, a senior fellow at Mathematica Policy Research, says that private Medicare Advantage plans “are now widely available nationwide,” even in rural areas, as Congress intended when it revamped the program in 2003.
But the study, to be published in the journal Health Affairs, says that 48 percent of the additional enrollment comes from a type of plan that mimics traditional Medicare and generally does little to coordinate care. Enrollment in these “private fee-for-service plans” has shot up to 2.3 million, from 26,000 in December 2003.
In a separate article, two analysts from the Medicare Payment Advisory Commission, Carlos Zarabozo and Scott Harrison, said that growth in private plans had driven up costs because the government pays them 13 percent more on average than what it would spend for the same beneficiaries in traditional Medicare.
The commission, an independent federal panel that advises Congress, has expressed concern about the disparity for years.
“The higher payment rates have financed what is essentially a Medicare benefit expansion for Medicare Advantage enrollees, without producing any overall savings for the Medicare program, and with increased costs borne by all beneficiaries and taxpayers,” Mr. Zarabozo and Mr. Harrison write.
The annual open enrollment period began on Nov. 15. Beneficiaries can sign up for private plans offered by companies like UnitedHealth and Humana and by many Blue Cross and Blue Shield companies.
Under the formula adopted in the 1980s, Medicare paid private plans 95 percent of the projected cost for each beneficiary in traditional Medicare, on the theory that the private plans would save money by coordinating care and being more efficient.
The private plans, which frequently offer additional benefits like vision and dental care, have proved popular. Over the years, Congress has increased payments to private plans, as an incentive to enter more markets.
Beneficiaries choose from an average of 35 private Medicare Advantage plans in each county, Mr. Zarabozo and Mr. Harrison report. But they say, “Payment increases have been so large that plans no longer need to be efficient to offer extra benefits.”
Payments to health maintenance organizations are, on average, 12 percent higher than what the government would spend for beneficiaries in traditional Medicare, they write, while payments to private fee-for-service plans were 17 percent higher.
Insurance company executives and Bush administration officials defend the role of private plans.
“Medicare Advantage plans are offering an average of over $1,100 in additional annual value to enrollees in terms of cost savings and added benefits,” said Kerry N. Weems, the acting administrator of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.
Karen M. Ignagni, president of America’s Health Insurance Plans, a trade group, said two types of plans — H.M.O.’s and preferred provider organizations — had produced tangible benefits by coordinating care. As a result, she said, disease is detected earlier and people have fewer visits to hospital emergency rooms.
But, Ms. Gold said, “these are not the types of plans that have been growing most rapidly.” Instead, the private fee-for-service plans are growing fastest, and they, she said, “are not set up to coordinate care.”
The Medicare Payment Advisory Commission has said the payments to private plans should gradually be reduced to the level of traditional Medicare.
In a campaign statement, Mr. Obama declared, “We need to eliminate the excessive subsidies to Medicare Advantage plans and pay them the same amount it would cost to treat the same patients under regular Medicare.” In a debate on Oct. 15, Mr. Obama described the subsidies as “just a giveaway” to private insurers.
Similar views have been expressed by former Senator Tom Daschle of South Dakota, who is Mr. Obama’s choice for secretary of health and human services. “Medicare’s solvency is now threatened by overpayments to private insurers,” Mr. Daschle said in a book published this year.
More Articles in Business » A version of this article appeared in print on November 24, 2008, on page B2 of the New York edition.
.............................................
Books,Movies, Reviews
It’s up to you folks to send me blurbs. I know you are reading.What? Is it good? Ellen
From my son Isaac and wife Gretchen (Sher) recommend Scott lynch
The lies of Locke Lamora.
Fantasty adventure;
Bunch of gentlemen bastard thieves in mideaval Venice.
A little dark in places; not a happy story. Blood. But sooo well written. Good story. Humorous moments.
.....................................
Gibbous Moon Poetry Bee! Series
Wednesday, December 10th: 6:45-9:00 PM
Holistic Health Center of Cincinnati.
800 Compton Road, Suite #24
(one block west of Winton Rd. north of Finneytown)
OFFERED BY: Valerie Chronis Bickett & Susan Glassmeyer
BEE POEM: After Our Daughter's Wedding by Ellen Bass
Read poem at: http://littlepocketpoetry.org/poetry bee
ADMISSION: By Donation
ANNOUNCEMENTS—
Something New. Something Cool. Something Soon.
Gibbous Moon Poetry Jam! Series
Details: http://littlepocketpoetry.org/poetry_jam
Current Pocket Poem posted on Little Pocket Poetry
"Wild Nights! Wild Nights!" by Emily Dickinson
Emily's birthday is December 10th!
Details: http://www.littlepocketpoetry.org/pocket_poems.
2009 creative writing & poetry classes
Offered by Valerie Chronis Bickett
Details: http://littlepocketpoetry.org/classes__workshops/admin/
2009 conscious writing classes for resolving inner conflict
Offered by Susan Glassmeyer
Details: Forthcoming in the January '09 Announcements
If there were no poetry on any day in the world, poetry would be invented that day. For there would be an intolerable hunger. ~ Muriel Rukeyser
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 <mailto:jkesner@nuvox.net> . <mailto:jkesner@nuvox.net>
Tri-State Treasures is accumulating your ideas for unique Holiday Season gifts and events. As with all Tri-State Treasures, the goal is for this to mutually benefit the vendor and the customer. Events will be posted 2 weeks leading up to the event. Gift ideas will be posted once towards the top, then accumulated below under a new heading Holiday Gift Ideas.
Information about Tri-State Treasures and how to submit Tri-State Treasures is at the bottom of this email. Please help me by providing all basic information, and formatting your submissions as described below. Thank you.
Sincerely, Jim
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Ten Thousand Villages: The store sells quality, hand-crafted products from diverse cultures around the world, conducting business with a compassionate mission to provide vital, fair income to artisans; to one day see all artisans in developing countries earn a fair wage, be treated with dignity & respect, & be able to live a life of quality. As you consider the gifts you'll buy this holiday season, consider those with meaning that positively impact thousands of people around the world. Not only will you receive a beautiful handmade product, you will be investing in the life of another person. Just three gift examples:
<> Snowman Ornament in a Pomegranate Shell (Peru) - a trio of hand-formed, painted snowmen inside a round ornament created from a painted dried pomegranate shell ($8).
<> Recycled Rolled Newspaper Nativity (Philippines) - handmade by women's artisan group that transforms old newspapers into this religious characters by rolling the paper into tubes, with hand-carved faces ($94).
<> Movable Bicycle Chain Menorah (India) - since the cost of metal has skyrocketed, artisans of Noah's Ark International have learned to recycle unlikely materials like bicycle chains to fashion this unique menorah ($24).
At 2011 Madison Road, O’Bryonville, Cincinnati, OH 45208. More info @ 513.871.5840 tenthousandvillagesofcincinnati@fuse.net & http://cincinnati.tenthousandvillages.com.
Coat Drive [thru Saturday 3 January]: Help keep our community warm this season. Donate 2 or more new or gently used coats & receive your choice of either a Chiropractic or Personalized Nutritional Examination ($150 value) in return for your generous donation. All donations accepted. At Gateways to Healing, Network Chiropractic, 3239 Jefferson Avenue, Clifton, Cincinnati, OH 45220. More info @ 513.321.3317 & www.GatewaysToHealing.com <http://www.gatewaystohealing.com/> .
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Citizens of the World - Photography [opening Thursday 4 December @ 5–7:30 PM]: Take a break from the work week or holiday shopping to celebrate the 1st show of Lyn Marsteller’s vivid photography. Lyn’s artistic & humanistic eye has captured surprising slices of daily life in 14 images from countries that include Cambodia, China, Croatia & Zambia. Awakenings Coffee & Wine owner, Pierre Wevers will be pouring a selection of remarkable wines at very special prices that evening. Exhibit continues thru Saturday 3 January. At Awakenings Coffee & Wine, 2734 Erie Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45208. More info @ 513.871.8131 & lynmarsteller@cinci.rr.com.
O'Bryonville Animal Rescue Holiday eBay Auction [thru Friday 5 December]: Leave the holiday shopping crowds at the mall. Do your shopping from the comfort of home & help the cats at O'Bryonville Animal Rescue. Your items will arrive in time for the holidays. All proceeds go to the cats. There are sure to be some great items for that unique someone on your list, so be sure to put in some bids. Free. At http://members.ebay.com/aboutme/theanimalrescue/ <http://members.ebay.com/aboutme/theanimalrescue/> . More info @ 513.871.PAWS, info@theanimalrescue.com <mailto:info@theanimalrescue.com> & www.TheAnimalRescue.com <http://www.TheAnimalRescue.com.> . <http://www.TheAnimalRescue.com.>
Winter Fest 2008 [Friday 5 December]: Pleasant Ridge, Kennedy Heights & Silverton host this festive celebration to kick-off the holiday season. The 5th annual Winterfest is full of free events for the entire family. The evening begins with a tree lighting at the Pleasant Ridge Community Center @ 6 PM. Then, go inside the Community Center for games, entertainment & craft activities. Catch a horse-drawn carriage & ride up the street to the Kennedy Heights Arts Center for a tree lighting at 8 PM. The Arts Center will host a reception & art activities from 8-11 PM. Enjoy free food & drink while viewing the Holiday Treasures guild art exhibition in the galleries, listen to live music & go into the art studio to create. Starting at 8:15 PM, join the “Dance Along” at ballet tech cincinnati across the street from the Arts Center. Pleasant Ridge Community Center, 5915 Ridge Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45213, 513.731.7894. Kennedy Heights Arts Center, 6546 Montgomery Road, Cincinnati, OH 45213, 513.631.4278. ballet tech cincinnati, 6543 Montgomery Road, Cincinnati, OH 45213, 513.841.2822.
What You Think is True [Friday-Saturday 5-6 December @ 6-11 PM]: Marty Campolo, Owen Brock, Julianna Boehm & Holly Risch present their 1st group show, in conjunction with the Essex Studios' holiday Art Walk, to celebrate 4 very different kinds of creativity that fit together beautifully. All 4 artists will be present both evenings, along with wine & cheese, & live music by Ric Hordinski (www.monkmusic.com <http://www.monkmusic.com/> ) Friday night & Sandy Suskind (www.sandysuskind.com <http://www.sandysuskind.com/> ) Saturday night. Large, medium & small pieces will be available at a variety of prices for those looking for truly original holiday gifts. At Essex Studios, Studio #156, 1st Floor, 2511 Essex Place, Cincinnati, OH 45206. More info @ www.essexstudios.com <http://www.essexstudios.com> .
Clay Alliance Annual Winter Sales Event [Friday-Sunday 5-7 December @ 6-9 PM (Fri), 12-5 PM (Sat) & 12-3 PM (Sun)]: Nineteen Clay Alliance artists will be featured on the main floor exhibiting a variety of ceramic styles, joined by jewelry makers & other artists in the upper galleries. At the Carnegie Arts Center, 1028 Scott Street, Covington, KY 41011. More info @ 859.491.2030 & www.clayalliance.org <http://www.clayalliance.org.> . <http://www.clayalliance.org.>
CCM Fall Dance Concert [Friday-Sunday 5-7 December @ 8 PM (Fri), 2:30 & 8 PM (Sat) & 3 PM (Sun)]: The Dance Division at UC’s College-Conservatory of Music presents an exciting fusion of styles in their fall performance. Directed by Shellie Cash. $10 admission, $5 non-UC students, UC students free. At Patricia Corbett Theater, University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music, Cincinnati, OH 45221. More info @ 513.556.4183, boxoff@uc.edu & http://www.ccm.uc.edu.
Frostbite Follies [Friday-Sunday 5-7 & 12-14 December @ 8 PM (Fri-Sat) & 2 PM (Sun)]: The Showboat’s treasured salute to the holiday season, featuring a potent potpourri of holiday song, comedy, audience participation, improvisation & the annual Christmas-themed send-up of all things Cincinnati - the Queen City Toast. $15 for subscribers, $16 for students & seniors, $17 for adults. At Showboat Majestic, 435 East Mehring Way, Cincinnati Public Landing, OH 45202. Free & reserved adjacent parking. More info @ 513.241.6550, Jenniferperrino@covedalecenter.com & www.cincinnatilandmarkproductions.com <http://www.cincinnatilandmarkproductions.com.> . <http://www.cincinnatilandmarkproductions.com.>
UU Youth Holiday Choral Festival [Saturday 6 December @ 10 AM]: The First Unitarian Universalist Youth Choral Festival will feature the children’s choirs (K-8) from 3 local UU churches singing 9 pieces from many traditions. “Breakfast with the Elves” will follow. Free & open to the public. At St. John's UU Church, 320 Resor Avenue, Clifton, Cincinnati, OH 45220. More info @ 513.961.1938, music@stjohnsuu.org & www.stjohnsuu.org <http://www.stjohnsuu.org> .
IJPC 6th Annual St. Nick Day Sale [Saturday 6 December @ 10 AM - 2 PM]: Intercommunity Justice & Peace Center will be selling fair-trade items. Your purchase benefit artisans from around the world, & IJPC. Items for sale: peace calendars, gifts, children's books from Syracuse cultural workers, fair-trade coffee, tea, & hot chocolate, art from death row inmates, products from artisans from Madagascar, Ecuador, El Salvador, Peru, & Ghana, Carol Rainey's book, homemade candles & ornaments from Sr. Alice, plus local artisan Elaine Adams will be demonstrating the art of making pottery. Plus yummy refreshments. At Peaslee Neighborhood Center, 215 E. 14th Street, Cincinnati OH 45202. More info @ 513.579.8547, kristen@ijpc-cincinnati.org & www.ijpc-cincinnati.org <http://www.ijpc-cincinnati.org/> .
NVISION Fashion Show [Saturday 6 December @ 9 PM]: The show features 1-of-a-kind fashions by local designers including Helen Smith, Tori Kadish, Rosie Kovacs & a parade of outfits assembled from NVISION stock. A dazzling array of functional handmade items & local art will also be exhibited & available for purchase. Doors open @ 8 PM. Admission is $12 in advance @ NVISION & phone or $15 at the door; includes refreshments & afterparty with DJ Steve Schmoll spinning danceable tunes till midnight. Sponsored by Red Polly Space Outfitters, the Comet, Melt Eclectic Deli, Pinnokios Hair Design, Shoetopia, Shake It Records & Scott Beseler Photography. At Red Polly Space Outfitters, 4016 Hamilton Avenue, Northside, Cincinnati, OH 45223. More info @ 513.542.4577, contact@nvisionshop.com & www.nvisionshop.com <http://www.nvisionshop.com> .
An Evening with Laurel & Hardy, Little Rascals & Cartoons [Saturday 6 December @ 6:45 - 10 PM]: Gene Sorkin is trying to organize a local Cincinnati chapter of "The Sons of the Desert" (The Laurel & Hardy Appreciation Society). He invites everyone who loves Laurel & Hardy & other Hal Roach Studios comedies to attend the inaugural meeting. Meet each other, enjoy some snacks, & watch some Laurel & Hardy movies, Little Rascals, a cartoon & maybe more. Bring microwave popcorn, nibbles, snacks & soft drinks if you wish. If there is enough enthusiasm they'll schedule another meeting & continue the fun. Tickets are $5; kids under 13 are free. At the Towers of Kenwood, enter thru west tower lobby & follow directions, 8044 Montgomery Road, Cincinnati, OH 45236. More info & RSVP @ 513.559.0112, chimptent@live.com <mailto:chimptent@live.com> & www.cincyworldcinema.org/download/SOD.pdf <http://www.cincyworldcinema.org/download/SOD.pdf> .
Blood - a play of Ireland's history [Saturday-Sunday 6-7 December @ 7:30 PM (Sat) & 4 PM (Sun)]: Before the 1916 Easter Rising, 3 heroes of Irish history met. What happened at that meeting should not be missed. Each of the two shows will be followed by a discussion of the play & the historical era. Written by Larry Kirwan, member of the Irish musical rock group Black 47; presented by the Irish American Theater Company. Tickets are $15 at the door. At the Science Center Theater, Thomas More College, 333 Thomas More Parkway, Crestview Hills, KY 41017. More info @ 513.225.6915 & IrishAmericanTheaterCo@fuse.net <mailto:IrishAmericanTheaterCo@fuse.net> .
Sunflower Sundries Farm Open House [Saturday-Sunday 6-7 December @ 10 AM - 6 PM (Sat) & 12 - 4 PM (Sun)]: Visit the farm to see where & how they make their famous soap, jam, mustard & pickles. See the soap shop, farm kitchen, & grain mill in action. Enjoy their corn bread with hot soup off the wood stove. Try samples of jams & mustards. If sunny, walk thru the organic gardens where they grow gooseberries, black currants, rhubarb, wild blackberries, okra & asparagus for preserves. They can help arrange gift boxes & ship them. At Sunflower Sundries Farm, 5021 Dividing Ridge Road, Mount Olivet, KY 41064 (do not use MapQuest). More info & directions @ 606.763.6827, jennifer@sunflowersundries.com & www.sunflowersundries.com <http://www.sunflowersundries.com> .
Feast of Carols [Saturday-Sunday 6-7 December @ 5 PM (Sat) & 2 & 5 PM (Sun)]: Ring in your holiday season at CCM's annual Feast of Carols, Cincinnati's favorite holiday concert. Featuring CCM's choral ensembles & outstanding guest choirs from throughout the Tristate. $10 admission, $5 non-UC students, UC students free. At Corbett Auditorium, University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music, Cincinnati, OH 45221. More info @ 513.556.4183, boxoff@uc.edu & http://www.ccm.uc.edu <http://www.ccm.uc.edu/> .
Calligraphy - Studio Open House [Saturday & Thursday 6 & 11 December @ 10 AM - 5:30 PM (Sat) & 10 AM - 8:30 PM (Thu)]: Beautiful hand lettered calligraphy gifts. Inspirational & scriptural prints & originals. Framed & matted. Greeting & Christmas cards. Handmade paper, genuine vellum, 23k gold. Prices range from $1 - $500+. Come have a cup of hot wassail; bring a friend & receive a free print. Most items created by Holly V. Monroe whose mission is "to feed the soul by making meaningful words beautiful." At Heirloom Artists-Calligraphy & Illumination, 514 Lakeridge Drive, Cincinnati, OH 45231. More info @ 513.771.2737, Letters@HollyMonroe.com & www.HollyMonroe.com <http://www.HollyMonroe.com> .
Amahl & the Night Visitors [Sunday 7 December @ 7 PM]: One-act Opera in English by Gian-Carlo Menotti. Directed by Dr. Eric DeForest & conducted by Dr. Patrick Coyle. Featuring Lauren Stieritz as Amahl & Laura Hoevenaar as The Mother. The 1st opera commissioned specifically for television, premiered on NBC Christmas Eve, 1951. Free admission with a Free Will Offering to support the St. Paul Presents program. At St. Paul Community United Methodist Church, 8221 Miami Road, Cincinnati, OH 45243. More info @ PatrCoyle@aol.com.
33rd Annual Memorial Hall Holiday Show & Sale [Sunday 7 December @ 12-4 PM]: The show features pottery by Allan Nairn, Greg Seigel, Joyce Clancy & Mike Frasca, Batik Art work & scarves by Arnelle Dow, wood turned vases & sculptures by Bob Winland, loom woven 18k gold jewelry by Stuart Golder, hand-made paper art works by Margaret Rhein of Terrapin Paper Mill & hand-painted silk clothing by Kymber Henson. Free admission & yummy refreshments. At Memorial Hall, next to Music Hall, 1225 Elm Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202. More info @ paperpeg@cinci.rr.com <mailto:paperpeg@cinci.rr.com> .
Free Advent Concerts by the Holy Cross-Immaculata Church Choir [Sunday 7 December @ 3:30 PM]: Come hear the joyful advent sounds of the Holy Cross-Immaculata Church Choir accompanied by flute, drums, keyboard & piano, directed by Paula Chal. The choir has performed by invitation at St Peter's Basilica in Rome, Great American Ball Park, the Cincinnati Zoo's Festival of Lights & many other local & regional venues. An hors d'oeuvres reception follows in the Parish Center. Similar concert @ different time & venue on Fri 12 Dec (see below). Free; free will offerings will benefit St Jude's Parish in Port au Prince, Haiti. At Holy Cross-Immaculata Church, 30 Guido Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202. More info @ www.hciparish.org <http://www.hciparish.org> .
2008 International Crèche Exhibit & Crèche Luncheons [Sunday 7 December @ 3:30-5 PM]: The coming of the light: a liturgical program honoring advent in this darkest season when some Christians wait in hope for the coming of Christ. Enjoy this afternoon of family & friends, prayer & song, readings & an art project, & something hot to drink. Free. RSVP requested. Grailville Retreat & Program Center, 932 O'Bannonville Road, Loveland, OH 45140. More info @ 513.683.2340, grailville@fuse.net <mailto:grailville@fuse.net> & www.grailville.org <http://www.grailville.org./> . <http://www.grailville.org./>
Winter Sunday Supper: A Seasonal Feast [Sunday 7 December @ 5:30 PM]: The last of the popular 2008 Sunday Suppers, the Winter Sunday Supper features Grailville grown food & other seasonal delights, surrounded by Grailville’s unique collection of over 40 Nativity scenes from around the world. Reserve early; other suppers have sold out. Prepaid reservations required. $15 per person; $10 for kids under 11. Grailville Retreat & Program Center, 932 O'Bannonville Road, Loveland, OH 45140. More info @ 513.683.2340, grailville@fuse.net <mailto:grailville@fuse.net> & www.grailville.org <http://www.grailville.org./> . <http://www.grailville.org./>
Creche Luncheons [Tuesday-Friday 9-12 & Monday-Wednesday 15-17 December @ Noon - 2 PM]: The Advent season continues with Grailville's International Creche Exhibit Luncheon Series. A delicious holiday luncheon followed by a short presentation on the origin of the Nativity scene & the history of the many Nativity sets in the Grailville International Creche Collection. Holiday shopping at the Grailville shop. Reserve early; limited seating. Prepaid reservations required. $15 per person; $10 for kids under 11. Grailville Retreat & Program Center, 932 O'Bannonville Road, Loveland, OH 45140. More info & RSVP @ 513.683.2340, grailville@fuse.net <mailto:grailville@fuse.net> & www.grailville.org <http://www.grailville.org.> .
Spinal Care Workshop [Wednesday 10 December @ 7 PM]: Learn how to find & release tension in your spine & to breathe more fully. Learn the benefits you can expect from Basic Care in Network Chiropractic. Free; guests will have a chance to schedule a free exam. Drs. Michael & Julie Nichols have over 25 years experience in chiropractic, nutrition & wellness. Voted "Cincinnati's Best Alternative Health Provider" by CityBeat 2006-2008. RSVP required, no children. At Gateways to Healing, Network Chiropractic, 3239 Jefferson Avenue, Clifton, Cincinnati, OH 45220. More info @ 513.321.3317 & www.GatewaysToHealing.com <http://www.gatewaystohealing.com/> .
Free Advent Concerts by the Holy Cross-Immaculata Church Choir [Friday 12 December @ 7:30 PM]: Come hear the joyful advent sounds of the Holy Cross-Immaculata Church Choir accompanied by flute, drums, keyboard & piano, directed by Paula Chal. The choir has performed by invitation at St Peter's Basilica in Rome, Great American Ball Park, the Cincinnati Zoo's Festival of Lights & many other local & regional venues. Free; free will offerings will benefit St Jude's Parish in Port au Prince, Haiti. At Mother of God Church, 119 W 6th Street, Covington, KY 41011. More info @ www.hciparish.org <http://www.hciparish.org> .
Redtree Art Gallery Opening [Friday 12 December @ 6-9 PM]: Mixed Up: all mixed media show. Wine & cheese reception with live music. This show runs Tuesday 9 December thru Saturday 3 January. At Redtree Art Gallery & Coffee Shop, 4409 Brazee Street, Oakley, Cincinnati, OH 45209. More info @ 513.321.8733 & www.redtreegallery.net <http://www.redtreegallery.net> .
Manifest Presents Two New Art Exhibits [Opening Friday 12 December @ 6-9 PM]: Like photography, printmaking is a genre of creative work that is underscored by its processes. National Exhibit of Contemporary Printmaking presents contemporary printmaking submitted by 13 artists that explores the range of methods & results currently being achieved within the bounds of such processes. Wild Kingdom is a solo exhibit of works by Jason Urban. The artist writes “My research has become an exploration of illusions” working across many disciplines anchored in printmaking, but pushed to the limits of installation. Works include etching & silkscreen processes combined with painting (www.jasonurban.com <http://www.jasonurban.com/> ). Refreshments will be served. Both exhibits run thru Friday 9 January. At Manifest Creative Research Gallery & Drawing Center, 2727 Woodburn Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45206. More info @ 513-861-3638, jason@manifestgallery.org <mailto:jason@manifestgallery.org> & www.manifestgallery.org <http://www.manifestgallery.org> .
Tickets for Boarshead & Yule Log Festival [Saturday 13 December @ 8 AM]: Boarshead Yule Log Festival is a free presentation of a medieval pageant complete with authentic costumes, beefeaters, peasants, sprites, fresh greenery & beautiful music including the audience participating in some singing. This wonderfully unique pageant based on the theme that good triumphs over evil is Saturday-Sunday 3-4 January. You must go to the cathedral for tickets; 2 tickets per person. At Christ Church Cathedral, 318 East Fourth Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202. More info @ 513.621.2627.
Children's Nutrition Talk [Saturday 13 December @ 2-4 PM]: Make 2009 the start of a new, healthier life for your kids. Start making better choices for your child's nutrition & get them on the road to superior health & wellness. Program is free; space is limited; call to reserve space. At Gateways to Healing, Network Chiropractic, 3239 Jefferson Avenue, Clifton, Cincinnati, OH 45220. More info @ 513.321.3317 & www.GatewaysToHealing.com <http://www.GatewaysToHealing.com> .
Holiday Gift Guide to Support Walnut Hills H.S. Music Department: The Walnut Hills H.S. Music Department has arranged 3 opportunities for you to find & purchase gifts for family & friends, while supporting music at Walnut Hills. More info & required coupons @ www.walnuthillseagles.com/Departments/Music/HolidayGiftFlyer2.pdf <http://www.walnuthillseagles.com/Departments/Music/HolidayGiftFlyer2.pdf> :
<> 10,000 Villages - Saturday 13 December @ 10 AM - 5 PM: Buy unusual hand-made gifts from around the world at 10,000 Villages, & Walnut Hills gets part of each sale. All products at 10,000 Villages are made by artisans paid on a "fair-trade" basis. No Coupons required, just say you're from Walnut Hills. At 2011 Madison Road, O'Bryonville, Cincinnati, OH 45208.
<> Online Magazine sales @ anytime: Go to www.aphearst.com <http://www.aphearst.com/> to get the best prices available on renewals & new subscriptions to most magazines published in the US, & Walnut Hills gets 40% of the cost of the subscriptions. Use code WA8545, click the Check Code button, & specify the student's name, if appropriate, for the student to get credit for your order.
Luminaria: Cincinnati Observatory Holiday Open House [Sunday 14 December @ 6-10 PM]: Come to the Observatory for refreshments, tours of the restored buildings (awarded the Cincinnati Preservation Association's Restoration Award), & to view through their historic telescopes (weather permitting). Purchase items related to astronomy & the Observatory at the gift shop. At Cincinnati Observatory Center, 3489 Observatory Place, Cincinnati, OH 45208. More info @ 513.321.5186, observatory@fuse.net & www.cincinnatiobservatory.org <http://www.cincinnatiobservatory.org> .
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Holiday Gift Ideas
Stocking Stuffer for the Mature Woman: A miniature hand fan for those times when menopausal women’s “inner child is playing with matches.” The inventor is from Northern Kentucky. The fans are made of recyclable materials & lead-free paint. Two sizes for $9 & $10. More info @ www.thebittybreeze.com <http://www.thebittybreeze.com./> . <http://www.thebittybreeze.com./>
Women Artists Datebook, 2009: This is the 16th edition of this beautiful datebook. It is spiral-bound, 5"x7" & available from Syracuse Cultural Workers, an org promoting peace & social change. "Art & poetry [that] inspires us to overcome fear & self-doubt, to use our minds & hearts to direct our creative energies in the year ahead." The datebook includes a black & white image showing the strength of women thru the generations by Cincinnati photographer Connie Springer. $14.95 for one; price decreases with larger orders. More info or order @ 800.949.5139 & www.SyracuseCulturalWorkers.com <http://www.syracuseculturalworkers.com./> . <http://www.syracuseculturalworkers.com./>
The Natural Mandala Fine Art Print: A museum quality, archival print of the 6-foot square mandala rendered totally in organic material. This unique image speaks deeply to the essence of our divine spirit nature. As a gift, this image means someone cares deeply for your emotional & spiritual well-being by encouraging a meditative practice. Created by Rex Oxley. 6 sizes, beginning at $150. More info, ordering & 20% discounts until 1 Jan @ 513.367.1456, rexoxley@msn.com <mailto:rexoxley@msn.com> & www.naturalmandala.com <http://www.naturalmandala.com/> . Contact Rex for 20% discount thru 1 Jan.
Lightboxes by Matthew Shelton [thru 1 February]: Painstakingly handcrafted lightboxes, illuminating intricate pin-hole patterns & colored light gels, to place the viewer in a meditative state where they might find a moment of peace & renewed sense of connection with themselves & their surroundings. Free. At NVISION, 4577 Hamilton Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45223. More info @ 513.542.4577, contact@nvisionshop.com <mailto:contact@nvisionshop.com> & www.nvisionshop.com <http://www.nvisionshop.com> .
Give Homes to Cats & Dogs: President-Elect Obama described his wish to give his daughters pets from the local shelter. Cincinnati has outstanding shelters & pounds overflowing with kittens & puppies, mature cats & dogs that would love nothing better than to give you unconditional love in exchange for a home. Save The Animals Shelter is one good shelter (513.561.STAF & www.staf.org <http://www.staf.org/> ). The O’Bryonville Animal Rescue has cats & kittens for adoption plus low cost spay/neuter clinic (see next item below). Find others at Yahoo Yellow Pages under "Animal Shelters."
Fresh High Quality North Carolina Fraser Fir Christmas Trees [thru Sunday 14 December]: Trees are 5-9 feet tall & cost $40-90. Delivery available within a limited area. Also wreaths, pine roping, poinsettias, cut greens, fire wood & handmade holiday arrangements. Proceeds support community programs of the Civic Garden Center. Noon-7PM (Mon-Fri) & 11AM-4PM (Sat-Sun). At the Civic Garden Center, Oak Street & Reading Road, Avondale, Cincinnati, OH. More info @ 513.221.0981 & www.civicgardencenter.org <http://www.civicgardencenter.org.> . <http://www.civicgardencenter.org.>
Living Words Pottery: Hand formed stoneware for the home & for gift-giving, with an eternal difference. Each piece has been carefully crafted & bears God's living words. Four colors. Safe for microwave, dishwasher & oven. 38 forms; one-third of them are priced under $20. More info, colors & directions @ 513.542.2442 & www.LivingWordsPottery.com <http://www.livingwordspottery.com/> .
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Ongoing Tri-State Treasures
Terra Firma: A Survey of Approaches to Landscape [thru Friday 5 December @ 6-9 PM]: Landscape can be so very widely interpreted & expressed. Manifest presents a wide variety of contemporary works that explore the notion of landscape, including works of drawing, sculpture, painting & photography by 19 artists. Refreshments provided by Café MoCA & the Echo Restaurant. At Manifest Creative Research Gallery & Drawing Center, 2727 Woodburn Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45206. More info @ 513.861.3638, jason@manifestgallery.org & www.manifestgallery.org <http://www.manifestgallery.org/> .
Miami University Italian Cinema Series [thru 9 December @ 7:30 PM]: Curated & presented by Professor Sante Matteo. Movies are in Italian with English subtitles, unless otherwise noted. Free & open to the public. In newly refurbished 102 Benton Hall with very comfortable seats, HighStreet @ Tallawanda Road, Miami University, Oxford, OH 45056. More info @ matteos@muohio.edu; map @ www.miami.muohio.edu/about_miami/campusmap/ <http://www.miami.muohio.edu/about_miami/campusmap/> :
Dec. 9: Le fate ignoranti (His Secret Life, Ferzan Ozpetek, 2001)
OAR Spay/Neuter Clinic: The O'Bryonville Animal Rescue Spay/Neuter Clinic is now open to the public. Operations will take place 2 weekend days per month until the start of the new year, when they will reevaluate the schedule. Surgeries are scheduled for Saturdays 6 & 20 December. Spay or neuter is $45. Vaccines, microchipping, parasite treatment, ear tipping & nail trims also offered at the time of surgery. Volunteers are needed to keep the clinic in operation (pardon the pun). If you are interested in registering cats as they are brought in, cleaning instruments, making surgical packs, helping to wake the cats from anesthesia, cleaning cages, or caring for ferals in traps, please contact Barb @ tuchfabj@yahoo.com. You’ll be helping to reduce the population of homeless cats & working toward a time when every kitten is wanted & loved. At 5619 Orlando Place, Cincinnati, OH 45227. More info @ 513-871-PAWS & www.TheAnimalRescue.com <http://www.TheAnimalRescue.com> .
A Very Merry Unauthorized Children's Scientology Pageant [thru Sunday 28 December]: A cast of children tell the story of L Ron Hubbard & the Church of Scientology in this indie rock musical by Kyle Jarrow. Songs cover everything from engrams to Dianetics, set in the style of a traditional Christmas pageant. Opening night party is Saturday 29 November @ 8 PM. Tickets are only $12, thanks to the generosity of the Carol Ann & Ralph V. Haile Jr./US Bank Foundation. At Know Theatre of Cincinnati, 1120 Jackson Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202. More info & tix @ 513.300.5669 & www.knowtheatre.com <http://www.knowtheatre.com> .
Going Greene: The Delta Queen & Greene Line Steamer Exhibit [thru January 4, 2009]: The collection of the Inland Rivers Library will be featured in this exhibit. Photographs & memorabilia from the Delta Queen & other steamboats from the Greene Line will be on display. At Cincinnati Room, 3rd Floor Bridge, Main Library, 800 Vine Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202. More info @ 513.369.6959, Emily.Mueller@CincinnatiLibrary.org <mailto:Emily.Mueller@CincinnatiLibrary.org> & www.cincinnatilibrary.org <http://www.cincinnatilibrary.org.> . <http://www.cincinnatilibrary.org.>
St Mary's Cathedral Basilica Concert Series [Sundays thru 15 March @ 3 PM]: Enjoy beautiful music in an amazing space. St Mary's Cathedral Basilica presents the 33rd Series of concert music. Most concerts are free. At St Mary's Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption, Madison Avenue @ 12th Street, Covington, KY 41011. More info @ 859.431.2060, cathedralconcertseries@fuse.net & www.covcathedral.com/frame1.htm <http://www.covcathedral.com/frame1.htm> .
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Fabulous Film Festival [Friday 3 May @ 8 PM]: The first & best fabulous film festival in the city of Cincinnati will present live-action, documentary, & short films. Blah, blah, blah. Presented by Flicks R Us. Tickets are $8. At The Theatre, 111 Main Street, Cincinnati, OH 45200. More info @ 513.111.2222, info@filmfestival.com <mailto:info@filmfestival.com> , & www.filmfestival.com <http://www.filmfestival.com> .
- Tri-State Treasures is compiled by James Kesner.
- Submit Tri-State Treasures, or request your email address to be added or removed from the list by sending an email to jkesner@nuvox.net <mailto:jkesner@nuvox.net> ; please specify "Tri-State Treasures."
- Email addresses are posted in BlindCopy to protect their identity. Email addresses are not shared, given, or sold without explicit permission from the owner.
- Tri-State Treasures are typically transmitted on Wednesdays; submissions should be received as soon as possible for best probability of being included.
- Please help me by submitting your Tri-State Treasure in the following format; because my time is limited, formatted submissions typically have a better chance of being included in the email transmission. Thank you for your help:
- Brief Title 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.
- A Fictitious Example:
The Lloyd House Salon (usually about 12 people) Meets on WEDNESDAYS at 5:45, EVERY Wednesday, 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 mutual pleasure and enlightenment.
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Our Salon blog is a promising interactive site: http:lloydhouse.blogspot.com
Also, we have an Interactive Yahoo Salon group, http://groups.yahoo.com/group/LloydHouseSalon
For Pot Luck procedures including 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 line 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, 6, 7or 8. This tells me which sub-list your name is on so I can
> delete it. Thanks! ellen bierhorst
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