Weekly: 1/7/10 - Tri-State Treasures

 

Tri-State Treasures

 

Tri-State Treasures is a chronological 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 forwarding your Tri-State Treasures ideas to jkesner@nuvox.net.

Information about Tri-State Treasures and how to submit them 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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Help the Homeless: I'm told that a group of homeless men are camped out on West Mitchell Avenue, between the Superior Hyundai dealership & the I-75 overpass. They often have signs out asking for clothes & blankets. Consider dropping off coats, blankets, sweaters, hats, gloves, food or money next time you're in the area.

 

Conscious Living Center: Clients & students at the Conscious Living Center embark on a path of wellness & awakening of consciousness that attends to the 3 centers of being: body, mind & heart. To achieve this, a wide variety of classes, programs & services are offered, such as massage therapy, enneagram study, & book discussions. At 114 Wellington Place, Cincinnati, OH 45219. More info @ 513.621.3600 &www.goconscious.com.

 

Classical Still Life Painting in Oil with Richard Luschek [Thursdays 14 January - 18 March @ 6:30-9:30 PM]: A beginning painting course where students will not only begin with the very basics of painting but will begin to learn how to see & study nature. The student's own work is the forum for inculcating this knowledge thru verbal instruction, demonstrations & hands-on critiques. There will be plenty of suggested reading. Please contact Richard for a full supply list. Tuition for the class is $250; $50 deposit will hold your spot; limited to 11 students. At the Women Art Club & Cultural Art Center, The Resthaven Barn, 6980 Cambridge Avenue, Mariemont, OH 45227. More info @ 513.479.3322,richard_luschek@yahoo.com & www.richardluschek.com.

 

Beginning Watercolor [Tuesdays for 12 weeks starting 26 January @ 1-3 PM]: Learn the basic techniques & practices of watercolor painting. Explore how paintings are made from the initial idea to the finished image. Starting with simple exercises, the course will progress towards still life & landscape subjects. The instructor, Sam Hollingsworth, will periodically conduct demonstrations. Tuition is $120. At Baker Hunt Art & Cultural Center,  620 Greenup Street, Covington, KY 41011. More info & registration @ 859.431.0020 & www.bakerhunt.com.

 

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Ceremony Welcoming Messages from the Maya [Friday 8 January @ 9-11 PM]: Talk given by James & Mai Needham traveling from Mexico, introducing knowledge from "The Walking Maya" AC TAH. The presentation will cover the origins of the Maya, where the Maya went, similarities between TM Siddhis & Maya technologies, the pyramids & why were they built, and 2012 & beyond. You are welcome to bring drums & an open heart to welcome the guests. Donations to defray cost of Mai & James are welcome. At Stillpoint Center / Het Herrett, 11223 Cornell Park Drive, Suite 302, Blue Ash, OH 45242. More info @ 513.407.5699 & marilynneedham@yahoo.com.

 

Quarterly Get-Together Brunch for Local Peace & Justice Groups [Saturday 9 January @ 9:30 AM - Noon]: Coffee @ 9:30 AM, discussion @ 10 AM; pot luck @ noon. Carol Igoe, Arc Hamilton County, is the coordinator & facilitator for the discussion by local activists of the local initiative to make Cincinnati lead free & safe for children. The topic for this gathering is "Lead paint poisoning is still causing brain damage in Cincinnati children; what can we do to eliminate it?" At Peaslee Neighborhood Center, 215 East 14th Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202; free parking in lot next to center. More info & RSVP @ saad.ghosn@uc.edu.

 

Annual Member 10 Minute Free-For-All [Saturday 9 January @ 10 AM]: Always a fun session, members will talk about what's on their mind. If it is interesting the members present can vote to allow another 5 minutes. Come hear what's bugging Cincinnati skeptics & join in. Free. Presented by Association for Rational Thought. At Molly Malones, 6111 Montgomery Road, Pleasant Ridge, Cincinnati, OH 45213. More info @ rrdavis@fuse.net & www.cincinnatiskeptics.org.

 

Babywearing Bliss [Sunday 10 January @ 2 PM]: A free workshop on safely & comfortably carrying a baby from birth thru toddler years the. Megan Seaman-Kossmeyer, co-leader of the Cincinnati chapter of Attachment Parenting International, facilitates this monthly exchange. Experiment & ask questions about the different kinds of carriers (wraps, ring slings, pouches, mei tais & soft-structured) & browse the selection after the class. At Park + Vine, 1109 Vine Street,  Cincinnati, OH 45202. More info @ 513.721.7275, dan@parkandvine.com & www.parkandvine.com.

 

34th Season of the Cathedral Concert Series [Sunday 10 January @ 3 PM]: An Epiphany Epilogue Northwinds Brass Quintet. LeeAnn Kordenbrock, Vocal Soloist. Cathedral Angelus Singers. Gregory Schaffer, Synthesizer & Organ. Robert Schaffer, Organ. Nell Schaffer, Piano. This is the 4th of 6 concerts thru April 2010. The Series endeavors to present instrumental & choral music from the rich tradition of Western Liturgy & inspired classical music in a suitable visual & acoustic environment. Series Music Director, Dr. Robert J. Schaffer. No admission charge; freewill offering accepted. 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.cathedralconcertseries.org.

 

Chamber Music Cincinnati presents [Tuesday 12 January @ 8 PM]: The eighth blackbird, a dynamic, exciting sextet specializing in the music of our time (see image at right). Tickets are $25, UC students free. At Corbett Auditorium, CCM, University of Cincinnati. More info @ 859.581.6877 & www.cincychamber.org.

 

For a Better World 2006 - opening reception [Saturday 16 January @ 6-8 PM]: Poems & drawings on Peace & Justice by Greater Cincinnati artists, from the 2006 edition of the annual book For a Better World edited by Saad Ghosn. Free. At Kennedy Heights Arts Center, 6546 Montgomery Road, Cincinnati, OH 45213. More info @ 513.631.4278,ellen@kennedyarts.org & www.kennedyarts.org.

 

Living an Integral Life: Introductory Workshop [Saturday 16 January @ 9 AM - 5 PM]: Learn to navigate the increasingly complex culture clashes that affect our work, community & nation. Join Quanita Munday & Leslie Hershberger in this highly engaging workshop. Learn to recognize & understand different human value systems for diverse people & groups. Learn the language of different value systems. Understand why conflicts & impasses are created. Learn how to create integrated solutions that meet the requirements of a complex world. Tuition is $85 & includes lunch. Reservations required. At Grailville Retreat & Program Center, 932 O'Bannonville Road, Loveland, OH 45140. More info @ 513.683.2340, events.grailville@fuse.net & www.grailville.org.

 

Bicycling Basics [Saturday 16 January @ 11 AM]: While the weather outside is a tad frightful, there's still plenty of reason to get on your bike & enjoy our beautiful city this time of year. Get some practical & encouraging winter riding tips from Katie Vogel of MoBo Bicycle Cooperative. Discussion includes pointers on basic maintenance & safety, dressing for inclement weather & how to carry groceries. Space is limited to 30 people. While this workshop is free to the community, donations to MoBo are greatly appreciated. RSVP before Jan. 15. At Park + Vine, 1109 Vine Street,  Cincinnati, OH 45202. More info & RSVP @ 513.721.7275, info@parkandvine.com& www.parkandvine.com.

 

The Flu & You [Sunday 17 January @ 1 PM]: Learn the truth behind the H1N1 virus, the seasonal flu & what you can do to fight them naturally. Presented by Dr. Michael Nichols, BS, DC, FICPA, co-owner of Gateways to Healing. Space is limited to 30 people. Free. RSVP to 513.321.3317 & GateToHealing@aol.com. At Park + Vine, 1109 Vine Street,  Cincinnati, OH 45202. More info @ 513.721.7275, dan@parkandvine.com & www.parkandvine.com.

 

Career Advice for 2010 [Wednesday 20 January @ 7 PM]: Want to change careers? Will a new company think you're worth hiring? Get career advice from the country's leading career expert & author of Life's a Bitch and Then You Change Careers, Andrea Kay, at one of Joseph Beth Bookseller's most popular annual events: Ask Andrea. It's free & usually packed, so come early & bring your questions. Joseph Beth Booksellers, 2692 Madison Road, Cincinnati, OH 45208. More info @ 513/396-8960 & www.AndreaKay.com.

 

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Ongoing Tri-State Treasures

 

More Great Cincinnati Families at Home [thru Sunday 24 January]: More Great Cincinnati Families at Home has moved from the Betts House to Park + Vine. Take in a little architectural history while you shop for holidays. The exhibit showcases the private residences of the Emery, Longworth-Anderson, Maxwell-Schmidlapp-Graydon & Werk-Oskamp families, & shares stories about these well-known Cincinnatians. At Park + Vine, 1109 Vine Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202. More info @ 513.721.7275,dan@parkandvine.com & www.parkandvine.com.

 

Etchings & Screenprints by Chelsey Hughes [thru Sunday 31 January]: Cincinnati artist Chelsey Hughes exhibits 2 bodies of work which explore medical anomalies, human oddities & a fascination with the strange. At NVISION, 4577 Hamilton Avenue, Northside, Cincinnati, OH 45223. More info & images @ 513.542.4577 &http://nvisionshop.com.

 

Tai Chi Classes with Ralph Dehner [Thursdays @ 10 AM - Noon]: His students write that Ralph Dehner, Tai Chi for Health Master/Trainer, is Cincinnati's premier Tai Chi teacher & an outstanding human being who'll lead you thru the journey of Tai Chi, a slow Chinese martial art now celebrated worldwide as a way to balance energies within. Ralph introduces 2 Tai Chi classes at his Fairfield studio. Standardized Yang 24 Forms @ 10-11 AM: the most popular Tai Chi forms; great for beginners thru advanced students; easy to learn, but with great depth the 24 Forms are the fundamentals to a life time practice or a route toward advanced/competition forms; $96 for 8-weeks. Yang 32 Sword Forms @ 11 AM - Noon: the sword counterpart to 24 Forms; 32 Sword adds a new dimension to your Tai Chi practice, requires some background in 24 Forms or other Tai Chi open-hand forms; $96 for 8-weeks. Two-class special: join both 24 & 32 sword classes & get the sword class for half price ($48). Tai Chi classes offered at other locations on Mondays & Thursdays at 6 PM in Clifton. At 5927 Embassy Drive, Fairfield, OH 45014. More info & registration @ 513.519.0559 &ralph.dehner@juno.com.

 

The U.S. Census Bureau – Is Hiring: The U.S. Census Bureau is now hiring for positions in the metro Cincinnati area to begin operations for conducting the 2010 Census. This is an exciting opportunity to enhance your job skills, further your career & improve your community. The local U.S. Census Bureau office is at 801 Linn Street, 4th Floor, downtown Cincinnati, OH 45203. More info including how to apply @ toll‐free 866.861.2010 & www.census.gov/detroit.

 

Argentine Tango year around: Tango del Barrio, Cincinnati's Argentine Tango social club, inhabits a lively corner of eclectic Northside, the city's most vibrant & diverse neighborhood. More than a dance studio, Tango del Barrio is a gathering place, a welcoming community of dancers & friends devoted to sharing the spirit & intrigues of Argentine Tango. Check out their schedule of classes, practices, milongas (social dances) & special events. Tango del Barrio is at 4046 Hamilton Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45223. More info @ 513.591.0019, 513.591.1948, lopezonr@fuse.net, mwizer@earthlink.net & www.tangodelbarrio.com.

 

Blessingways: Mindy Mossman is pleased to announce her partnership with the Cincinnati Family Enrichment Center to offer Blessingway Ceremonies for pregnant & adoptive mothers. The Blessingway is a mother-centered ceremony including friends & family that honors a woman as she transitions thru pregnancy & birth into motherhood. Each ceremony is custom designed to provide a deeply meaningful, delightful & transformational experience for the mother-to-be while honoring her personal belief system. $200 includes consult, invites & facilitation. More info from Mindy @ 513.319.6612, mindyblessing@me.com & www.theplaceforfamilies.com/programs/for-parents.

 

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Tri-State Treasures is compiled by Jim Kesner

• Submit Tri-State Treasures or request addresses to be added or removed from the list by emailing jkesner@nuvox.net; specify "Tri-State Treasures."
• Email addresses are posted in BlindCopy to protect your identity. Email addresses are not shared, given or sold without explicit permission.
• Tri-State Treasures are typically transmitted on Wednesdays; send submissions as soon as possible for best probability of being included.
• Please submit your Tri-State Treasures in the following format. This will greatly help me & enhance the probability your item will be included:
  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:
  Fabulous Film Festival [Friday 3 May @ 8-10 PM]: The first & best film festival in Cincinnati will present live-action, documentary, & short films... Presented by Flicks Я Us. Tickets are $8. At The Movie Theatre, 111 Main Street, Cincinnati, OH 45200. More info @ 513.111.2222,info@filmfestival.com & www.filmfestival.com.

Ellen Bierhorst Ph.D.

ellenbierhorst@lloydhouse.com

513-221-1289  ~ http://www.lloydhouse.com ~

Weekly 1/1/10

Hard to believe, a new decade!  Let’s work together to build a better world.  Age of Aquarius indeed.  ellen

The Lloyd House Wednesday Night Salon WEEKLY
1/1/10

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A Newsletter published every Thursday from the Lloyd House in Cincinnati
Email subscriptions: 623

Our Salon blog is an interactive site:   http://lloydhouse.blogspot.com
If you would like to respond, amend, or correct anything in this Newsletter, please consider using that.  I will receive a copy of anything posted there.

FIVE SECTIONS, including:

• Table Notes of the discussion at this Wednesday night’s Salon, as recorded by Ellen
• Events and Opportunities
• Articles of Interest
• Book, Film, Theater, TV, Music Reviews
• Tri-State Treasures, compiled by Jim Kesner
  

Submissions:  you must have the email copy to me by Wednesday night midnight.  Copy the format you see in this Weekly please.  (Times New Roman font, text 14 pt, headlines 20 pt.  Maroon for Opportunities and Events, Navy for articles.)

The Wednesday Night Salon has been meeting each week of the year (no break for holidays, weather) since July 2001 in pursuit of good talk.  Bring a dish at 5:45 pm and join us.  We are usually about 10 people of varied erudition and age.  We like to talk politics, environmentalism, social issues, literature, the arts, ad any blamed thing we want.  Sometimes we have a special presenter.  We emphasize good fellowship and civility always.  Way fun!  Everyone welcome.  3901 Clifton Avenue 45220.

SECTION ONE: TABLE NOTES

At the table 12/30/09

Lauren Hanisian, Dennis Kinsley, Mr. G., Vlasta Molak, Carolyn  Clark, Alan Weiner, Janice Alvarado, Mira Rodwan, Roberto Alvarado, Miriam Shaw, Ellen Bierhorst, Viddle,  

Quotes:  Margaret Mead (thank to Vlasta),  From Funny Times (thanks Mira), 

"T-Cells and Sympathy"  benefit theater performance (miriam Shaw will be acting) to benefit Caricole House, at Below Zero Lounge on Walnut Jan 22

Next June, big congress of Socialists in Detroit.  United States Social Forum

Vlasta:  every Mon I have Sustainable Living pot luck.  Next Mon will also celebrate 90'th birthday of Gordon Mayhem.  5-7.  Everyone invited.  I live off the grid.  8987 Cotillion Dr 45231  

Janice:  Jan 16 an ImmigrationReform Rally here.  A few months ago, state of Ohio sent notice to auto registration owners who did not report a social security number.  If they haven't reported a number soon, ...  

Sometimes they are arrested and "disappeared" with not notice to families.

Miriam  we are living in a police state!

Dennis:  Sheriff Jones, Butler Co is almost obsessed with arresting illegal immigrants.  

Roberto  I think he is ambitious for elected office...

Dennis  I know him; respect him as a law enforcement officer, but is over the top with this thing.  

... 

arrests of anyone who looks latino.

Topic

Ellen  DEA proposal.... Bentley Davis.  I want to invite a group of Cincinnatians to contribute money to support her so that she can educate us as voters and citizens ...

Mr G:  I like Bentley. ... Many people object to your ideas on paying her.

... lots of people think this is a country run by the corporations, not the voters.  

Vlasta  we have lost our manufacturing section to China... dangerous!

Lauren:  disgustingly large pay for corporate executives...

Carolyn:  Ohio is the worst for infant mortality in the nation and Cinti is the worst in Ohio.  (Ellen:  according to http://www.census.gov/statab/ranks/rank17.html  ohio is 8th in infant mortality.)

Janice  US does rank first in the world in emergency medicine and heart surgery...

Si Lenzbegone:  doctors have not been well trained.  ... my thyroid condition misdiagnosed by many docs.  Same as Oprah.

Mr G:  my understanding is that thyroid is very complex.  Tests look very different according to when they are taken....  There are many diseases in which one has to struggle to get the right levels of medication ... you have to be a good reporter of y our symptoms.  You can kill the best help by over-expectations, unrealistic expectations ...  then there is natural thyroid vs artificial thyroid...  

Some of  the "wholistic" people just make things up.

Si Lenzbegone:  I went to University medical faculty ...  They told me "diet has no effect on thyroid functioning".  A book I read said you are not supposed to take calcium within 2 hours of your thyroid medicine,... was never told this by the doc.  ... I got acne when I was 30 and took antibiotics for 2 yrs, and later learned that the calcium I was taking made the tetracycline ineffective!  

There have been 100,000 deaths every year because of hospital mistakes.  

... Mayo Clinic book, "don't take soy" when you are on thyroid...  I ate a lot of soy and it was aggravating a thyroid condition.

Vlasta  I have PhD in biochemistry, worked for NIOSH, toxicology.  It is very complex.  Nutrition has tremendous impact.  Also exercise.  

I run with people for years in Burnet Woods ... we want to write a book on how it helps mental health.  3 x week for half hour keeps depression away.  

Lauren:  not in my case.  

Mr. G.  In the  world of cancer, of psychiatry, professionals will tell you , if they are good, that if they don't know you individually, they can't evaluate any regimen.  

Ellen   on the danger of simplification...  Mistrust of doctors, science, politicians.  

Mira ... the value of having a complete medical history of  yourself available ...  although it might be an invasion of privacy if it got into the wrong hands.  ...  Geriatricians for instance, need to know and understand lifestyle issues, background, environmental factors.  

Weekly 1/1/10 Activities and Opportunities

SECTION TWO: ACTIVITIES, OPPORTUNITIES

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Dear Amazing Singers of the Martin Luther King Chorale,


Bishop Todd O'Neal's father passed away yesterday (Monday, December 28), and the wake will be on Saturday January 2 from 9:00 to 11:00am at Rockdale Baptist Church in Avondale. The service will be at 11:00. Please keep Bishop O'Neal and family in your prayers. All are welcome to the church.

We will have much needed rehearsals in the new year on Tuesday, January 5 at 7:00, Tuesday January 12 at 7:00, and Saturday January 16 with youth. The Bishop wants to add one piece (with high school dancers) and subtract one piece. We will see if we can juggle it all.

With the young people (including, we hope, students from the Islamic School) we will sing Siyahamba, Bambelela and Spread the Love.

Dedicated to Bishop Brown: Rosa Sat and Hallelujah from a Soulful Celebration

For Offering: Let Everything That Has Breath and We Search for Peace

And for our set: Ella's Song, We Are One, and Sometimes I Feel Lke a Motherless Child.

I send wishes for a happy new year, filled with joy, unbounded love and peace in our city, in our land, and in the beautiful and connected, diverse world in which we live. We strive in our singing to realize the unmet dream of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. to finally rid the world of the giant triplets: materialism, militarism, and racism.

With love,
Cathy and Bishop Todd

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YOGA AND CHANTING
AT SHINE

Hello Chanters...
 
A couple of nice things to let you know about.
                  
 
JUST CHANT!
with Karen
TUES. JAN 12
Shine Yoga Center
7:30 - 8:30pm
(by donation only)
 
Please join me as we step into the new year chanting to the Divine.
 
 
Om... Shanti... shanti.... shanti.....
 
 
Karen Johns
WHEN
Evening        Thirteen Mondays    January 4 - March 29        7-9 PM
Day            Thirteen Thursdays    January 7 - April 1        9:30-11:30 AM
WHERE
Holistic Health Center        800 Compton Rd.  #24    Cincinnati, OH  45231
WHO
Women and men high-school age and up    All levels of confidence     All genres
WHY
To deepen writing practice     Nourish writing life
WHAT
Ongoing small group after the first class      In-class writing and reading of recent work in large group
Sometimes a guest writer        Published writing from outside to open class and talk about
COST
Donation ($200 - $300 suggested)
FACILITATOR
Valerie Chronis Bickett
1555 Donaldson Place
Cincinnati, OH  45223
513.681-9252
TO REGISTER
Mail / Email / Call In       Class preference and contact information
FOR MORE INFORMATION    www.littlepocketpoetry.org
               

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VEGAN CAFÉ IN PLEASANT RIDGE

Halo and happy holidays!
There is alot going on in December at the Loving Cafe!
Don't worry if you missed the last cooking class!  Due to popular demand, This Thursday, Dec 3rd at 7:15 we will be having another cooking with Pumpkins cooking class.  We will be doing pumpkin chili and a vegan pumpkin cheesecake with a pecan-graham crust, both happen to be gluten-free!  Space is limited, so sign up soon!  reply to this email, or sign up at the cafe!  cost of the class is $15
Starting on Tuesday, December 15th, we will have NEW Winter hours as follows:
Tuesday-Thursday 11am-4pm
Friday and Saturday 11am-7pm
For anybody interested in learning meditation, there will be a free mediation seminar on Friday, December 18th at 6pm
Direct Contact with God through Quan Yin Meditation
Bring Love, Peace, Wisdom and Happiness to your life through Inner Light and Sound meditation.  The Supreme Master Ching Hai International Association proudly presents a video lecture of Supreme Master Ching Hai, a true living Master who has attained Divine Realization.  As part of the seminar, introductory meditation instruction is also available free of charge.

Refreshments will be provided.  For more information and to register for instruction, please call 513-470-1787, or email ohiocenter@yahoo.com, or check out www.godsdirectcontact.org
 
Thanks all for your wonderful support!
Peace and good health,
Loving Cafe

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ROOM AVAILABLE AT LLOYD HOUSE!
Fabulous opportunity.  
at the Historic Lloyd House
SINGLE room on third floor,  private bathroom.    Many perqs:  fabulous common rooms include dining room, music/living room, zendo meditation room, spacious veranda, off street parking, laundry in basement, sauna.  Share kitchen on 3rd floor with 3 other adults.
Multi-cultural house, live music parties,  monthly drum circle, yoga practice weekly, Tai Chi weekly, pot luck salon every Wed. night.  Must be at least 25; no smoking; no pets; solid financial credentials.  $360/month house dues.  Call Ellen: 513 221 1289

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Singers Wanted... Concert singers, bathtub singers... All!
MLK Chorale Back in Session !

(for nearly 20 years Cathy Roma, now with the help of Todd O’Neal has been leading the big gospel chorus for MLK Day.  It’s a blast!  Mixed race group, very grand leadership, wonderful spirit and music.  All singers at any level, any age ... No audition. Come.  Ellen.)

We have consolidated our practices, almost like when we first started 18 years ago. I believe we are entering our 19th season together.

We will gather on Tuesdays at 7:00 at the House of Joy. (church in College Hill on Hanilton Ave, used to be a movie theater. Parking lot behind the building, access off Cedar.)  
DATES:
Tuesdays Dec 1; Dec 15; Jan 5; Jan 12;  7 – 9 pm
And Saturday Jan 16 10-12

I know you know--the social and cultural climate in which we live needs our vibrant voices raised in song for peace and for justice. We acknowledge the continuing influence Dr. Martin Luther King's words and deeds has on our lives. Bishop Todd O'Neal and I look forward to gathering once again as we keep hope alive with our attitude of yes we can.

Peace, love, and gratitude
Dr. Catherine Roma and Bishop Todd O'Neal

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Braden Trauth announces Permaculture Consultancy
Happy Solstice Everyone!
  Hope everyone is staying warm out there as we launch into another Solar Year!
  Well Down here on the Banks of the Ohio We are proud to Introduce, at the return of the sun for the 2010 solar year, the OM Valley PermacultureConsultancy; a business that is here to help green our local Ohio Valley communities in the coming years, decades, & centuries! OM Valley, located near the confluence of the Ohio River and Mill Creek, Hence OM Valley, is the first of its kind in Cincinnati and potentially in Ohio. We will be bringing Permaculture & Whole Systems thinking through Classes, Consultations, Designs, & Implementations (if needed) to clients who are looking to jump into the New Economy of Sustainable Local Resource Development. An Economy focused on Renewable Local Self Sufficiency that will provide security for Generations to come.
    OM Valley focuses on all aspects of Permaculture to create Holistic systems which include:

  1. Landscaping: Edible & functional
   2. Earthworks: To maximize water capture to feed plant life
   3. Construction: Truly Green Retrofit and Appropriate New Construction Appropriate
   4. Technology: Technology that makes our lives easier, more fulfilling & more ecological
   5. Community Design: focusing on maximizing Gross Domestic Happiness/Quality of Life,        Efficiency, &  Local Sustainable Resource Development
   6. Systems Thinking & Design for your Home, Farm, Business, or Community to
       maximize resource efficiency for generations to come in a world of dwindling
       resources.

   We will apply our years of study from around the world combined with our formal education & experience of local implementation to create systems that provide for your needs in a sustainable way for generations to come.
   Our Consultations and Designs can and will if properly implemented:

Reduce and/or eliminate your Carbon Footprint
Reduce and/or eliminate Pollution and Waste from your life
Fulfill all of your needs to live including food, energy, housing & much more
Increase your Quality of Life while reducing your Cost of Living!
Create a Happier, Healthier & more Connected Life
Teach you how to think & design Systems that green our lives and the planet, beginning with the most fundamental system we are all apart of, the Earth! (Whole Systems Thinking!)
Heal the Earth for all Current and Future Generations of Life!
  We hope to have the opportunity to help you and our community, region & planet manifest the dream of a truly harmonized planet as we shift from a consumptive culture to a Co-Creative Culture!
   Please contact us or visit our new website (which is still growing and evolving!) if you would like us to help with a coming project or if you just want to learn more.
OMValleyPermacultur e.wordpress. com
or email us at OMValleypermacultur e@yahoo.com, Bradentrauth@ yahoo.com
or call Braden at 513-569-2579

Hope your coming year is filled with light, love, and of course Abundance in all aspects!
Thank you for you time
sincerely
Braden Trauth

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Immigration Reform Rally Jan 16
Cincinnati Interfaith Workers Center is working with local unions, community and religious organizations and Reform America in fighting for real immigration reform next year. With the recent Ohio DMV decision to deny vehicle registration to immigrants without social security numbers it is now important than ever that we work together for the legalization of the millions of immigrants in our country.
Attached is a flyer for the immigration reform rally on January 16. Please distribute this flyer wherever you can. We plan to have an 1,000 to 1500 people at the Hartwell Center at 2 PM on January 16th. We will have personal stories from immigrants, and speakers representing religious, union and community perspectives on immigration reform and politicians who support this effort (perhaps Luis Guitterez).

We see this as a just kick off of a campaign to bring real reform to our immigration laws.

As of this date we are planning to have nine buses  to pick up at different points in our area those we can’t drive to the location and those immigrants who are now too afraid to drive.  The points of the pickups are depicted in the flyer.

Any questions on our rally please call our office (513) 621-5991 or Su Casa (513) 621-5991

Don Sherman, Director Cincinnati Interfaith Workers Center  

REFORM  IMMIGRATION

FOR  AMERICA

Comprehensive Immigration Reform Rally

Saturday, January 16  2:00 – 3:30 PM

Hartwell Recreation Center

59 Caldwell Drive, Cincinnati

 

What is Comprehensive Immigration Reform?

WORKABLE SOLUTIONS that

REFLECT OUR NATIONS VALUES and

MOVE US FORWARD

TOGETHER

 

 

Directions to Hartwell Center, 65 Caldwell Drive:

Take I-75 to the Paddock Road exit.  Follow Vine St north one mile to the third traffic light.  Turn left onto Caldwell Drive.  Hartwell Recreation Center is on the left

 

 

Free Transportation Located at:

Hamilton – 3 locations

El Valley Verde Market, 2436 Dixie Highway, Hamilton

Taqueria Mercado, 6507 Dixie Highway, Fairfield

Princeton Pike West Church of God, 1060 South 12th St, Hamilton

**Departs at 12:45**

 

John Wesley United Methodist Church                                   Westwood Kroger

1927 West Kemper Road, Cincinnati                                               2435 Harrison Ave, Cincinnati

**Departs at 1:00**                                                                     **Departs at 1:15**

 

Cristo Rey Church                                                                       St Charles Hispanic Ministry

947 Donaldson Highway, Erlanger, KY                                   115 West Seymour Avenue

**Departs at 1:00**                                                                   **Departs at 1:15**

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Bentley Davis, DEA

DEA (Democracy Educator Advisor) Bentley Davis

I asked Bentley for her take on Health Care Reform as passed by Senate, the Copenhagen conference on Global Warming, and the escalation in Afghanistan.  ellen

Hi Ellen,

Yes, I am still alive.  Sorry I have been among the missing.  With the holidays, my life has been taken over by family duties.  And, unfortunately, next Wednesday, I have to attend a meeting for work.  But I hope to return soon.  

As for your questions...

Health care reform: Reasonable people disagree here and we have to see what comes out of committee.  Personally, I would like to see something rather than nothing pass.  However, I am very leery of having an individual mandate while not having a public option or Medicare buy-in.  I fear it won't lead to the necessary cost containment -- and may lead to higher costs than some can afford.  On the other hand, getting rid of pre-existing conditions, discrimination against women, and some of the other reforms will make a huge difference.  At this point, everyone is lobbying for their pet portion of the bills to be saved or cut, as the case may be, in the conference committee.  I would urge you and others to call Senator Brown and Rep. Driehaus and make your opinions known about the parts that are important to you.

Copenhagen:  It was a non-binding agreement.  Cheers for diplomacy, but who knows what will actually come of it.  I would focus on what we can do here to try to pass the climate change legislation and other green initiatives at the local, state, and national level.   (Related to this, a group has formed to lobby for the proposed train linking Cincinnati, Dayton, Columbus, and Cleveland --  http://www.linkingohio.com -- there you can find means to lobby congress to get started on this project.)  

Afghanistan:  The surge is going to happen.  As a lifelong pacifist, I don't think war is the answer to any dispute.  Think of what we could do if all that money was spent on humanitarian efforts in the region...  As someone who watches politics, the focus on Afghanistan is not surprising at all.  Obama campaigned on changing the focus to Afghanistan.  While the war in Iraq had dissent all along, there was only one person in Congress who voted against the war in Afghanistan (Rep. Barbara Lee).  So, this escalation is pretty popular.  While one should certainly make their opinions known on this front, I fear that it won't change much in the near future.  I would write the powers that be, but donate to causes such as MADRE www.madre.org or Afghan Institute of Learning http://www.creatinghope.org (the latter was recommended by Kristof  in his 12/23 column) -- both of which offer programs to empower the women of Afghanistan.

As always, feel free to write or call with specific questions.   I hope to see you soon.  2010 promises to be an exciting year -- let's hope a good year too.  

Happy New Year!

Best,

Bentley

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SECTION THREE: ARTICLES AND LETTERS

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Many kind responses to My Egypt Trip Report (you can read it at http://www.lloydhouse.com):

On Dec 29, 2009, at 9:24 AM, renepiper@hotmail.com wrote:

Ellen, I have not attended many salon sessions since Josy invited me. I do enjoy the weekly notes which encourage me as an American. I love to travel and have visited 46 states, most provinces of Canada and some of Europe. I say all this to tell you how much I enjoyed your trip notes from egypt. It is a wonderful collection of thought and feelings much the same as I chronicle my trips. Thank you so much for sharing. I wish you a truly blessed holiday season and hope to see you more often in 2010. Shalom. Rene'

From Jane Auer:
Thank you.  I am so happy to have you back- and so lucky to know you even a little.
Wow!!!!
Love, Jane

From Evan Bukey:
Hi Chusti!
         Many thanks for your fascinating report. You have a real eye for the telling detail. In 1974, my colleague in Near Eastern history and his Jewish wife spent a year in Cairo. They, too, had many interesting experiences but obviously lived in a city that has changed enormously. For example, both stressed that the Egyptians did NOT consider themslevs Arabs and, in Bill and Janet's view, did indeed look different. Second, they reported Islam was omnipresent, but in no way fanatical. At that time, there was also a large Coptic Christian community, which has largely flown abroad. As for Jews, someone should have reminded your guide that at the time of Jesus, the Jewish population of Alexandria was much larger than that of the entire Holy Land (Palestine, Judea, Samaria, the Galillee).
Love and kisses,
Evan

From Lois Cone:
Ellen
Thank you for sharing such rich information.
Blessings
Lo

From Vivien Kline:
nice job! Vivian

From Suellyn Shupe:
Hi Ellen,
What a great trip.  Thanks for sharing.  I haven't read the whole thing, but enough to know I want to take more time with it.  Your descriptions are great and it's fun to hear your reactions to being inside the tomb and so forth.
Missed you at meetings and wondered where you were.
I'm in Seattle spending time with my 6 year old granddaughter Mira.
See you in the new year.
Suellyn

From Josy Trageser:
OOOOOHHHHHH!!!!!!! ELLEN!!!

From Kaya Kotzen:
Ellen - its  been  slightly over  a  year  since  I went (to Egypt).  Repercussions  continue.. integration  takes  a  long  while..  The  exhibit  and  movie at the  musem on egypt  I just  saw  and wa s mesmerized  by...
if you ever  want  to talk  about your  experience, let me know..     I find  that  visiting  sacred  sites  have a  long lasting  ;impact  on mylife and  consiousness..
Glad  you had  a  good  time.
 
Have a   great  end of  the year!
 
blessings
kaya

From Kristen Fryer:
Fascinating.  Thanks for sharing!

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Last Week Julia contributed many fascinating tidbits about the origins of Santa Claus in a Shamanistic ritual of the solstice.  Here’s an article about it:

These links contain information about the true origins of santa, gift giving, reindeer etc.
Enjoy.
Much love
Marc

LINKS
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http://www.wildalchemist.blogspot.com/

http://www.atlanteanconspiracy.com/

http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=825942553983229569&ei=NZkzS_6yAYXSqgLujeTrCw&q=pharmacratic-inquisition&hl=en#

http://www.pharmacratic-inquisition.com/main/

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WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2009

Santa Claus the Magic Mushroom
Have you ever wondered why on Christmas we cut down/carry evergreen trees inside our houses, decorate them with fancy ornaments, and place presents underneath them?



"So, why do people bring Pine trees into their houses at the Winter Solstice, placing brightly colored (Red and White) packages under their boughs, as gifts to show their love for each other and as representations of the love of God and the gift of his Sons life? It is because, underneath the Pine bough is the exact location where one would find this ‘Most Sacred’ Substance, the Amanita muscaria, in the wild.” –James Arthur, “Mushrooms and Mankind” (8)The Amanita muscaria is the red and white magic mushroom that grows almost exclusively beneath Pine trees. Their main psychoactive ingredient is 'muscimol,' as well as trace amount of DMT, an entheogen naturally produced in the brain’s pineal gland. The pinecone-shaped pine-al gland is an organ that produces the same DMT found in this pine tree fungus, and much more."DMT exists in all of our bodies and occurs throughout the plant and animal kingdoms. It is a part of the normal makeup of humans and other mammals; marine animals; grasses and peas; toads and frogs; mushrooms and molds; and barks, flowers, and roots ... DMT is . . . in this flower here, in that tree over there, and in yonder animal. [It] is, most simply, almost everywhere you choose to look." Indeed, it is getting to the point where one should report where DMT is not found, rather than where it is." -Dr. Rick Strassman, “DMT – The Spirit Molecule”(42)




“The Pine tree is one of the well-known central relics of Christmas. Under this tree is where those who are deemed good find their reward in the form of a present. A big red and white rounded mushroom grows under the very tree we are to look under on Christmas morning to find our gift.” –James Arthur, “Mushrooms and Mankind” (6)
Green, red, and white as Christmas colors comes from the evergreen tree and the red and white mushrooms underneath. The word Christmas originally comes from the Egyptian KRST (oiled/anointed one) and Mes, the sacred cakes annually made/ingested by the Egyptians. This Eucharist was originally made from Amanita muscaria or was the mushroom itself. The tradition existed all over the ancient world, but most of the iconography/symbology recognized today comes from pre-Christian Northern Europe.
“The very name, ‘Christmas’ is a holiday name composed of the words, ‘Christ’ (meaning ‘one who is anointed with the Magical Substance’) and ‘Mass’ (a special religious service/ceremony of the sacramental ingestion of the Eucharist, the ‘Body of Christ’). In the Catholic tradition, this substance (Body/Soma) has been replaced by the doctrine of ‘Trans-substantiation’, whereby in a magical ceremony the Priests claim the ability to transform a ‘cracker/round-wafer’ into the literal ‘Body of Christ’; ie, a substitute or placebo.” -James Arthur, “Mushrooms and Mankind” (9-10)




“Although most people see Christmas as a Christian holiday, most of the symbols and icons we associate with Christmas celebrations are actually derived from the shamanistic traditions of the tribal peoples of pre-Christian Northern Europe. The sacred mushroom of these people was the red and white amanita muscaria mushroom … These peoples lived in dwellings made of birch and reindeer hide, called ‘yurts.’ Somewhat similar to a teepee, the yurt's central smoke hole is often also used as an entrance. After gathering the mushrooms from under the sacred trees where they appeared, the shamans would fill their sacks and return home. Climbing down the chimney-entrances, they would share out the mushroom's gifts with those within … Santa also dresses like a mushroom gatherer. When it was time to go out and harvest the magical mushrooms, the ancient shamans would dress much like Santa, wearing red and white fur-trimmed coats and long black boots.” -Dana Larsen, “The Psychedelic Secrets of Santa Claus” Cannabis Culture, Marijuana Magazine, Dec 18th, 2003




To this day Siberian shamans dress in ceremonial red and white fur-trimmed jackets to gather the magic mushrooms. First they pick and place the mushrooms to partially dry on nearby pine boughs which prepares them for ingestion and makes the load lighter. This is why we decorate our Christmas trees with ornaments and bulbs, because the gatherers would always adorn trees with drying mushrooms. Next the shaman collects his red and white presents in a sack and proceeds to travel from house to house delivering them. During Siberian winters, the snow piles up past the doors of their yurts (huts), so the red and white clad shaman must climb down the smoke-hole (chimney) to deliver the presents in his sack. Finally the appreciative villagers string the mushrooms up or put them in stockings hung affront the fire to dry. When they awake in the morning, their presents from under the pine tree are all dried and ready to eat.
“The amanita mushroom needs to be dried before being consumed; the drying process reduces the mushroom's toxicity while increasing its potency. The shaman would guide the group in stringing the mushrooms and hanging them around the hearth-fire to dry. This tradition is echoed in the modern stringing of popcorn and other items.” -Dana Larsen, “The Psychedelic Secrets of Santa Claus” Cannabis Culture, Marijuana Magazine, Dec 18th, 2003




“The ancient shamanic use of Amanita muscaria in Siberia is well documented. Despite governmental oppression against its use, there are still many who refuse to accept the authorized state religion, and continue the shamanic traditions in secret. Just as the Siberian shaman (commonly dressing in red and white) would enter through the opening in the roof of a home where a ritual was to be done, Santa Claus also arrives on the roof and enters through the chimney. Just as the shamans would gather the mushrooms in bags which they would bring with them when performing a ceremony, Santa Claus also (on the Holy Day) brings presents in a bag.” -James Arthur, “Mushrooms and Mankind” (10)
Siberian reindeer also enjoy eating amanita mushrooms and thus are often used as a lure by the deer-herding natives. Since one of the hallucinatory experiences often felt on psychedelic mushrooms is that of flying, Santa’s flying reindeer most likely derive from this.




“Reindeer were the sacred animals of these semi-nomadic people, as the reindeer provided food, shelter, clothing and other necessities. Reindeer are also fond of eating the amanita mushrooms; they will seek them out, and then prance about while under their influence … The effects of the amanita mushroom usually include sensations of size distortion and flying. The feeling of flying could account for the legends of flying reindeer, and legends of shamanic journeys included stories of winged reindeer, transporting their riders up to the highest branches of the World Tree.” -Dana Larsen, “The Psychedelic Secrets of Santa Claus” Cannabis Culture, Marijuana Magazine, Dec 18th, 2003
The flying reindeer, sleigh, and the entire Santa Claus mythology originates from Siberia where Saint Nicholas, the patron Saint of children, is a supplanter to the indigenous Shamans.
“Saint Nicholas, known as the ‘Patron Saint of Children,’ is the most revered saint in Russia, second only to the apostles. He is the Russian Orthodox Church's supplanter to the native people's highly respected local Shaman. A Shaman is a holy man that is well acquainted with a form of spirituality that incorporates plant entheogens which facilitate the NDE (Near Death Experience), or ‘out of body’ experience. Saint Nicholas may not have been a shaman, yet the symbolism on, and coloring of his robes could lend to speculation.” –James Arthur, “Mushrooms and Mankind” (10)




“One of the side effects of eating amanita mushrooms is that the skin and facial features take on a flushed, ruddy glow. This is why Santa is always shown with glowing red cheeks and nose. Even Santa's jolly ‘Ho, ho, ho!’ is the euphoric laugh of one who has indulged in the magic fungus.” -Dana Larsen, “The Psychedelic Secrets of Santa Claus” Cannabis Culture, Marijuana Magazine, Dec 18th, 2003
Could this by why Rudolph’s nose is red? In an interesting play on words, another name for a large, capped mushroom is a “toadstool.” So if Santa is a mushroom, and a mushroom is a stool, when children sit on Santa’s leg, they are sitting on a “toed” stool.
"Santa's famous magical journey, where his sleigh takes him around the whole planet in a single night, is developed from the ‘heavenly chariot’ used by the gods from whom Santa and other shamanic figures are descended. The chariot of Odin, Thor and even the Egyptian god Osiris is now known as the Big Dipper, which circles around the North Star in a 24-hour period. In different versions of the ancient story, the chariot was pulled by reindeer or horses. As the animals grow exhausted, their mingled spit and blood falls to the ground, forming the amanita mushrooms.” -Dana Larsen, “The Psychedelic Secrets of Santa Claus” Cannabis Culture, Marijuana Magazine, Dec 18th, 2003
“It is fairly common knowledge that the Weihnachtsmann (St. Nick) was an amalgamation of older Germanic/Norse gods such as Thor, Donner, Odin and Wotan. What's missing here is just as Santa flies through the skies in his sleigh, Odin (as well as the rest) rode through the sky in his chariot, which is depicted in the stars by ‘The Big Dipper’. The Big Dipper is the chariot of Odin & Wotan, Thor, King Arthur, and even Osiris (of Egypt). The chariot that circles the North Star in a 24 hour period is thus also known as the sleigh of Santa Claus because it circles his mythological home, the North Pole. It is no surprise that Nordic/Germanic gods have connection to mushrooms in their mythology. As Thor throws his mushroom-shaped hammer to the ground, mighty thunders and lightning cracks cause the real mushroom(s) to appear. As the horses pulling Odin through the sky in his chariot become over-exerted, their blood-mingled spit falls to the ground and causes the Amanita mushrooms to grow at those exact points.” –James Arthur, “Mushrooms and Mankind” (10-11)



Probably the first Santa was Osiris in ancient Egypt who rode his flying chariot to/from the North Pole, was born on December 25th, and celebrated by putting presents underneath an evergreen tree.
“Not only did Osiris ride the sky in a chariot, but after his death Isis found that an evergreen (Cedar) had grown overnight from a dead stump to full-sized; which was understood as a sign of Osiris' rebirth and immortality. Interestingly, the traditional birth of Osiris is the 25th of December. The 25th of December was also celebrated annually by putting presents around the Cedar tree. This tradition is at least five thousand years old. The birth of Horus to the goddess-virgin-mother, Isis, is perhaps the eldest representation of the goddess/son mythology, yet it is impossible to know this or the real age of the Astro-theological-Virgo-giving-birth-to-the-child/god/star mythology for sure. However it is the oldest source I have found.” –James Arthur, “Mushrooms and Mankind” (11)




Santa, an anagram for Satan, dresses in red, keeps lists of naughty/nice children, and seems to steal Christmas from Jesus. But if understood in its original mushroom context, Santa’s not a conniving, omniscient, list-keeper. He’s an Entheogen - a plant or substance which is said to “generate the God within.” The word Entheogen breaks down, En for inside, Theo for God, and Gen for generate – generate the God inside. If you have ever taken an Entheogen (i.e. Psilocybin, DMT, Peyote, Ayahuasca), then you are already aware of the spiritual or even religious experiences associated with them. As anyone who has tried them knows, and most anyone who hasn’t fiercely denies, these Entheogens put us directly in contact with that spark of the divine within ourselves. They allow access to higher consciousness and open our third-eyes; The outer material world dissolves and the “five” senses return to a state of one sense, one consciousness.
“First hand understanding is through the ingestion of the holy substances, of which there has been so much written, that this brief expose' merely scratches the surface of. It is this direct communal contact which is truly the means whereby a human being can experience his true spiritual nature. One must take very seriously his /her own spirituality, for this is that which we truly are. As I stated in the opening sentence, ‘This experience is of extremely great value’. So much so, that I feel it necessary to the evolutionary process of each and every individual, and inevitably to all of mankind.” -James Arthur, “Mushrooms and Mankind” (26)




If you have mischief, wickedness, or secrecy in you, then entheogens will take you down into the depths of your own hell. But if you have kindness, love, and truth within you, entheogens will raise you up into the heights of that heaven. When people of a poor disposition or in a negative mood eat magic mushrooms they usually have a “bad trip” and experience frightening or depressing hallucinations. When people of a good disposition or in a positive mood eat mushrooms they usually have a great trip and experience hours of uncontrollable laughter and a loving, close feeling with everyone around. Just like at Christmas Santa keeps lists of children who are naughty and nice, at Easter only good kids get to eat the colored eggs. This is likely because good kids on mushrooms are hilarious and lots of fun, whereas naughty kids on mushrooms guarantee a bad trip for everyone, so they get coal at Christmas and no eggs at Easter.
“Santa Claus is an all-knowing icon that reads the hearts and intentions of everyone on the planet. Each child is told the story of the round-man (who wears red and white) and his associates; reindeer, little people and Mrs. Claus. They are also told the story of a miraculous worldwide flight in a sleigh which results in presents being delivered under a tree. Yet when a child reaches the age of reasoning he is informed that this story is all a fabrication. This revelation is devastating upon the psyche of a young mind. It is also at this time that the child is often comforted and pacified from the shock by very strong reinforcement that the religious systems which the parents or guardians profess are indeed factual. And an attempt is made to incorporate the respective religious traditions into the holiday as the REAL meaning for the celebration.” –James Arthur, “Mushrooms and Mankind” (6)
Santa Claus and the Easter Bunny have both been uprooted from their original positions. They began as mythological mushroom heroes understood in a spiritual context by both children and adults. Now their literal meaning has been suppressed, and a fake image has been corporatized by Coke, Cadbury and others. The effect this has had is to turn mythological heroes into fantasies and lies. It was not meant for children to discover as they are coming of age that parents, family, and friends have lied to them about Santa and the Easter Bunny. It was meant for them to discover deeper meanings behind the mythologies such as the ancient Astrotheological understanding of the heavens, the knowledge of the zodiacal precession, and seasonal cycles like solstices and equinoxes. The whole complexity of the modern Christmas mythos is an unexplainable mess without the magic mushroom, the story is completely unintelligible.
“Some psychologists have discussed the ‘cognitive dissonance’ which occurs when children are encouraged to believe in the literal existence of Santa Claus, only to have their parents' lie revealed when they are older. By so deceiving our children we rob them of a richer heritage … Many people in the modern world have rejected Christmas as being too commercial, claiming that this ritual of giving is actually a celebration of materialism and greed. Yet the true spirit of this winter festival lies not in the exchange of plastic toys, but in celebrating a gift from the earth: the fruiting top of a magical mushroom, and the revelatory experiences it can provide. Instead of perpetuating outdated and confusing holiday myths, it might be more fulfilling to return to the original source of these seasonal celebrations. How about getting back to basics and enjoying some magical mushrooms with your loved ones this solstice? What better gift can a family share than a little piece of love and enlightenment?” -Dana Larsen, “The Psychedelic Secrets of Santa Claus” Cannabis Culture, Marijuana Magazine, Dec 18th, 2003

Source - www.atlanteanconspiracy.com

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Report on  my first six months as an Alexander Technique Teacher:

Greetings and Happy New Year to all my 46 Alexander Technique students, current and past,

-thanks
-rates
-quote
-Egypt trip report


Thanks to you, I've had a magnificent first six months as an Alexander Technique teacher.  My schedule of lessons has been full every week, and I have had a ball!  Thank you so very much for all that I have learned, thanks to  you, and for the confidence that is building each week.  

For those of you not actively scheduling lessons, you'll be interested to know my updated rates policy:
My actual full fee, as advised by my mentor Vivien Schapera, most senior local A.T. teacher, is $78 per 45 minute lesson.  For new students, the first lesson is free, the next three lessons are $10 each, the next four lessons, if paid in advance are $30.  After that, we talk.  I am still able to say, "I want no one to turn away because of the fee."  So I will work out a fee that enables you to have the lessons you want.  I expect to hold to this rates policy for another three months, but if you know someone wanting to try it out, they shouldn't delay as this dizzyingly low rate won't last too much longer.  

Below is a marvelous quote from Alexander Teacher Aida McGuan of the American Society for the Alexander Technique:

"The gentle, yet precise discipline we inherited from F. M. Alexander deals with practical procedures for the development of robust well-being, our own and that of our students.  The art (of the Alexander Technique) rests in our patient ability to attend to ourselves, to lighten up with curiosity and humor as we engage in the world around us.  To be less driven into constant action, reaction and motion."  

Hope you enjoy that as much as I do.  Keep on remembering to do your lie-down inhibition practice, and to pause ...  a lot.  Oh and BTW you can read about the Alexander Technique at my webpage http://www.lloydhouse.com   ... stuff by me, mostly.  

By the way, as most of you know, I went to Egypt the first 2 1/2 weeks in December.  I have written up a blurb about the trip, plus photos, available at my webpage, http://www.lloydhouse.com
There will be in addition a slide show of our photos in about 3 weeks.  It will be announced...everyone welcome.  





Ellen Bierhorst Ph.D.
ellenbierhorst@lloydhouse.com
513-221-1289 ~ http://www.lloydhouse.com ~

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Weekly 1/1/10 Reviews

SECTION FIVE:  BOOKS, MOVIES, RESTAURANTS, WEBSITES
 
It’s great to share tips.  I keep a running list of books friends have touted.  Hope you will send me names of your books and movies... Restaurants you’ve been to.  

No reviews sent in this week.  The Atlantic Monthly magazine sent me a copy spontaneously.  A great journal, still.  The National Geographic has a fascinating article about the prosperous dictatorship in Singapore.  Ellen

A fascinating website of the obama presidency:
http://www.politico.com/politico44/
Has stories of all the relevant events to the president, and links to videos of all his speeches.  Thank you, Regine!

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Weekly 1/1/10: Tri-State Treasures

Happy New Year

 
Tri-State Treasures

Tri-State Treasures is a chronological 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 forwarding your Tri-State Treasures ideas to jkesner@nuvox.net.

Information about Tri-State Treasures and how to submit them 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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Three programs by Grailville:
<> Living an Integral Life: Introductory Workshop [Saturday 16 January @ 9 AM - 5 PM]: Learn to navigate the increasingly complex culture clashes that affect our work, community & nation. Join Quanita Munday & Leslie Hershberger in this highly engaging workshop. Learn to recognize & understand different human value systems for diverse people & groups. Learn the language of different value systems. Understand why conflicts & impasses are created. Learn how to create integrated solutions that meet the requirements of a complex world. Tuition is $85 & includes lunch.
 
<> Stages of Consciousness - A Bi-weekly Integral Practice Group [starting Wednesday 27 January @ 7-9 PM]: Integral is a living, breathing experiential exploration. It recognizes that all living beings evolve thru different stages, eventually allowing individuals to incorporate elusive insights. Learn simple practices designed to deepen awareness of mind, body, spirit & shadow; connect to others who are interested in living an integrated life; experience music, group sharing, ritual, storytelling & brief explanatory teaching about the integral model; leave with a deeper understanding & compassion for self & others. Tuition is $110 for the 6 session series: Weds 27 Jan, 10 & 24 Feb, 10 & 24 Mar & 7 Apr.
 
<> Good Earth Good Eats: Bread-making Workshop [Sunday 31 January @ 1:30-4:30 PM]: Come early at 12:30 PM for a delicious Grailville lunch. Learn to make healthy, delicious whole-grain bread with Grail member & long time baker Elizabeth (Lebe) Robinson. Bring questions & be ready to roll up your sleeves. This workshop is the 1st activity of Grailville’s 2010 Good Earth/Good Eats Program, led by local food producers & artisans to help us experience the connections between people, the earth & the food we eat. Tuition is $25; $35 with lunch.
 
For all three programs: special Early Bird reservation deadline is Wed 6 Jan. Reservations required. At Grailville Retreat & Program Center, 932 O’Bannonville Road, Loveland, OH 45140. More info @ 513.683.2340, events.grailville@fuse.net & www.grailville.org.
 
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2009 New Year’s Eve Blast on Fountain Square [Thursday 31 December beginning @ 8 PM]: Welcome 2010 in downtown Cincinnati with free skating on the U.S. Bank Rink, tunes from an on-site DJ, an elaborate Ice Bar & fireworks at midnight. About 7.5 tons of ice are used to create the elaborate ice bar. Faucets are frozen inside the bar so beer can be tapped from inside the ice. The bar is about 20 feet long, 12 feet deep & 10 feet high. In addition to beer, martini drinks will be sold. The event is free and open to the public. Skating is free; skate rental is $2.50. Adult beverage, soda & snacks will be available for purchase. Sponsors: Kroger, Toyota, P&G & Strauss & Troy, LLC. Produced by Fountain Square Management Group, a subsidiary of 3CDC. At Fountain Square, 5th & Vine Streets, downtown Cincinnati, OH 45202. Parking all evening in the Fountain Square Garage for $5. More info @ www.myfountainsquare.com.
 
International Drawing Annual 5 (INDA5) [entry deadline is Thursday 31 December]: The Annual is a competitive publication of works of contemporary drawing & writing about drawing to recognize, document & publish excellent, current & relevant works of drawing from around the world. Cash awards total $1000. Hardcover &perfect bound books available fall 2010. At Manifest Creative Research Gallery & Drawing Center, 2727 Woodburn Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45206. More info @ 513.861.3638 & www.manifestgallery.org.

Idyll - New Photography, Sculpture & Installation [thru Thursday 31 December]: An exhibit of new art works by Celene Hawkins (see image at right). At Prairie, 4035 Hamilton Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45223. More info @ www.prairiecincinnati.com.

Buy Glass Sculpture to Fight World Hunger [thru the holidays]: The Marta Hewett Gallery, a member of Heifer International's Ambassador's Council, partners with this acclaimed org to continue the fight against hunger & to provide hope to families around the world. Choose from 100's of beautiful original works in the gallery & Heifer International will receive 10% of each sale. Heifer International was selected by Forbes Magazine as one of 10 "Gold Star" charities & is the recipient of the Conrad N. Hilton Humanitarian Prize. Heifer International has provided aid in 53 countries & 27 states, with gifts of training & livestock, from water buffalo to bees, to help needy families achieve self-reliance. Select instantly from new pieces in the gallery by Kathleen Elliot, Afro Celotto, Brian Russell & others. Or view works by exciting, emerging artists including Martin Janecky, Matthew Cummings & Sung Soo Kim to help change the world today when you choose a distinctive work in glass. At Marta Hewett Gallery, 656 E. McMillan Street, Cincinnati, OH 45206. More info @ 513.281.2780, marta@martahewett.com, www.martahewett.com & www.heifer.org.

Annual Holiday Food Drive [thru Saturday 2 January]: All donations accepted. Bring in 2 full bags & receive a free chiropractic or nutritional examination. Food is donated to the Freestore Foodbank of Cincinnati. Help us feed those in need. Gateways to Healing, Network Chiropractic & Advanced Clinical Nutrition. 3239 Jefferson Avenue, Clifton, Cincinnati, OH 45220. More info @ 513.321.3317 & www.GatewaysToHealing.com.

The Colors of Nature - New Oil Paintings by José Luis Nunez [thru Tuesday 5 January]: Art On The Levee Gallery presents the new & vibrant landscapes & still lifes of José Luis Nunez. At Newport On the Levee, 1 Levee Way, KY 41071. More info & art @ 859.261.5770, artonthelevee@gmail.com & www.joseluisnunez.com.

Quarterly Get-Together Brunch for Local Peace & Justice Groups [Saturday 9 January @ 9:30 AM - Noon]: Coffee @ 9:30 AM, discussion @ 10 AM; pot luck @ noon. Carol Igoe, Arc Hamilton County, is the coordinator & facilitator for the discussion by local activists of the local initiative to make Cincinnati lead free & safe for children. The topic for this gathering is “Lead paint poisoning is still causing brain damage in Cincinnati children; what can we do to eliminate it?" At Peaslee Neighborhood Center, 215 East 14th Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202; free parking in lot next to center. More info & RSVP @ saad.ghosn@uc.edu.

 
34th Season of the Cathedral Concert Series [Sunday 10 January @ 3 PM]: An Epiphany Epilogue Northwinds Brass Quintet. LeeAnn Kordenbrock, Vocal Soloist. Cathedral Angelus Singers. Gregory Schaffer, Synthesizer & Organ. Robert Schaffer, Organ. Nell Schaffer, Piano. This is the 4th of 6 concerts thru April 2010. The Series endeavors to present instrumental & choral music from the rich tradition of Western Liturgy & inspired classical music in a suitable visual & acoustic environment. Series Music Director, Dr. Robert J. Schaffer. No admission charge; freewill offering accepted. 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.cathedralconcertseries.org.

Classical Still Life Painting in Oil with Richard Luschek [Thursdays 14 January - 18 March @ 6:30-9:30 PM]: A beginning painting course where students will not only begin with the very basics of painting but will begin to learn how to see & study nature. The student's own work is the forum for inculcating this knowledge thru verbal instruction, demonstrations & hands-on critiques. There will be plenty of suggested reading. Please contact Richard for a full supply list. Tuition for the class is $250; $50 deposit will hold your spot; limited to 11 students. At the Women Art Club & Cultural Art Center, The Resthaven Barn, 6980 Cambridge Avenue, Mariemont, OH 45227. More info @ 513.479.3322, richard_luschek@yahoo.com & www.richardluschek.com.

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Ongoing Tri-State Treasures
 
More Great Cincinnati Families at Home [thru Sunday 24 January]: More Great Cincinnati Families at Home has moved from the Betts House to Park + Vine. Take in a little architectural history while you shop for holidays. The exhibit showcases the private residences of the Emery, Longworth-Anderson, Maxwell-Schmidlapp-Graydon & Werk-Oskamp families, & shares stories about these well-known Cincinnatians. At Park + Vine, 1109 Vine Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202. More info @ 513.721.7275, dan@parkandvine.com & www.parkandvine.com.

Etchings & Screenprints by Chelsey Hughes [thru Sunday 31 January]: Cincinnati artist Chelsey Hughes exhibits 2 bodies of work which explore medical anomalies, human oddities & a fascination with the strange. At NVISION, 4577 Hamilton Avenue, Northside, Cincinnati, OH 45223. More info & images @ 513.542.4577 & http://nvisionshop.com.

Tai Chi Classes with Ralph Dehner [Thursdays @ 10 AM - Noon]: His students write that Ralph Dehner, Tai Chi for Health Master/Trainer, is Cincinnati's premier Tai Chi teacher & an outstanding human being who'll lead you thru the journey of Tai Chi, a slow Chinese martial art now celebrated worldwide as a way to balance energies within. Ralph introduces 2 Tai Chi classes at his Fairfield studio. Standardized Yang 24 Forms @ 10-11 AM: the most popular Tai Chi forms; great for beginners thru advanced students; easy to learn, but with great depth the 24 Forms are the fundamentals to a life time practice or a route toward advanced/competition forms; $96 for 8-weeks. Yang 32 Sword Forms @ 11 AM - Noon: the sword counterpart to 24 Forms; 32 Sword adds a new dimension to your Tai Chi practice, requires some background in 24 Forms or other Tai Chi open-hand forms; $96 for 8-weeks. Two-class special: join both 24 & 32 sword classes & get the sword class for half price ($48). Tai Chi classes offered at other locations on Mondays & Thursdays at 6 PM in Clifton. At 5927 Embassy Drive, Fairfield, OH 45014. More info & registration @ 513.519.0559 & ralph.dehner@juno.com.

Argentine Tango year around: Tango del Barrio, Cincinnati's Argentine Tango social club, inhabits a lively corner of eclectic Northside, the city's most vibrant & diverse neighborhood. More than a dance studio, Tango del Barrio is a gathering place, a welcoming community of dancers & friends devoted to sharing the spirit & intrigues of Argentine Tango. Check out their schedule of classes, practices, milongas (social dances) & special events. Tango del Barrio is at 4046 Hamilton Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45223. More info @ 513.591.0019, 513.591.1948, lopezonr@fuse.net, mwizer@earthlink.net & www.tangodelbarrio.com.

Blessingways: Mindy Mossman is pleased to announce her partnership with the Cincinnati Family Enrichment Center to offer Blessingway Ceremonies for pregnant & adoptive mothers. The Blessingway is a mother-centered ceremony including friends & family that honors a woman as she transitions thru pregnancy & birth into motherhood. Each ceremony is custom designed to provide a deeply meaningful, delightful & transformational experience for the mother-to-be while honoring her personal belief system. $200 includes consult, invites & facilitation. More info from Mindy @ 513.319.6612, mindyblessing@me.com & www.theplaceforfamilies.com/programs/for-parents.


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Tri-State Treasures is compiled by Jim Kesner
Submit Tri-State Treasures or request addresses to be added or removed from the list by emailing jkesner@nuvox.net; specify "Tri-State Treasures."
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Tri-State Treasures are typically transmitted on Wednesdays; send submissions as soon as possible for best probability of being included.
Please submit your Tri-State Treasures in the following format. This will greatly help me & enhance the probability your item will be included:
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:
Fabulous Film Festival [Friday 3 May @ 8-10 PM]: The first & best film festival in Cincinnati will present live-action, documentary, & short films... Presented by Flicks Я Us. Tickets are $8. At The Movie Theatre, 111 Main Street, Cincinnati, OH 45200. More info @ 513.111.2222, info@filmfestival.com & www.filmfestival.com.