Sunday, August 31, 2014

Jobs Jobs Nowhere. Best Summer? Not. Another rant from a mad woman.

People who know me well, know that I'm pretty blunt, and while I can be very diplomatic when necessary, if I feel that something needs to be said, I'm going to say it.  Whether people get offended or not, is not my problem, because I'm not saying it to be mean, pick on anyone, or just yanking your chain.  I'm telling you the truth as I see it.  If I'm yanking your chain, you'll know, because I'll be kidding around.  Plus, who doesn't love a practical prank?

Anyway...  I just got done reading in one of the newspapers, and it's weird...  The hotel/motel count has come in as being a 28% increase in being booked, much higher than the 10% increase earlier in the year, to be the best summer for business.  So, the person in charge of taking the commerce count is stating that people are working and comfortable in their positions, so they feel safe to travel.  Thing is, if these are travelers, these are not Racine, WI residents who are traveling or camping.  These are visitors from elsewhere coming here, to visit.  If these visitors go to the chain type places to buy stuff, they are really not impacting our economy very well.  To stimulate the economy, they need to buy local as much as possible.

I'm still missing key points on how our economy is doing better.  As you know, I am a home care aid, who visits people in their homes anywhere from an hour to about three hours to help take care of people in their own homes.  It's not one of these things where I'm spending most of the day or anything.  I have a care plan.  The care plan lets me know about which personal cares I need to do, such as bathing and/or getting dressed, meal prep, hair/oral hygiene care, or if it's more along the line of house keeping.  Because I'm in and out of people's houses, it's not like I am at one spot where I clock in, work my shift, and be done for the day.  I'm doing this every 1-3 hours on days that I work.  Why is this relevant to the jobs situation?  Okay, here it is.  I get to hear about the client's families, and half of my clients have family, relatives or friends who are underemployed or underemployed.  With a friend of one of my clients who worked for the client, is still in need of finding other employment.  It's as if I'm hearing more about who needs a job or a better position, as opposed to who is doing okay.  So, it's not just my friends and people I know, this is going on all over the place.

I had written a note to my state governor, explaining the fact that here I am, with a bad back that is getting worse, is doing aide work, which has the highest rate of back injury than mining or construction, and I've been doing this for about 11 years now.  I've been trying to find a better position for about 7 years now, and with no avail.  Certain jobs that require standing in one place for hours, or those which require all day long of bending, twisting, stooping, etc are also out - because of my back.  Granted, yes, in doing aide work, I could handle a hospital, because most units are filled with those who are able to go through treatment, surgery, etc...  In cases where people are not as healthy and need more care, two people are automatically sent in to help this one person, as opposed to doing it all by yourself in home care, which happens 99.9% of the time.  There was a little bit more to the rant along the line of the fact that I am not lazy, or I wouldn't be doing this line of work, and to please not send me back a patronizing answer, because I am not stupid, either.  Well, guess what?  I have not gotten an answer from Governor Walker's office.  At all.  Bad idea.  I am a voter.  So is my husband.  I vote every election, and have been known to give free rides out of my own free will to bring neighbors to the polls so they can vote, too, especially if they are elderly and don't drive.  It's mid term elections, and the governor, who is running for office, refuses to answer a constituent?  Before you try to say, "But, you said not to answer...."...  Okay, I did not just say not to answer me.  I told his office NOT to answer me in a PATRONIZING manner, because I am not stupid.  People understand English, correct?  Well, here are people who want to say that immigrants should learn English, who doesn't understand their own language.  There is a difference between not responding, vs. not responding in a patronizing way.  Responding in a patronizing way would be a way where they like to fill out the response with info that is so general, it means nothing, and blah blah, where I've gotten a lot of those that will tell me to go where ever, etc....  Okay, I already went to the Workforce Development Center.  They paid for my education to become a Health Unit Coordinator.  Tons of jobs have come up, and I still can't land them...  I have a worker there for my education as well as another for my yes, welfare benefits.  So no, I don't want some privileged politician telling me to go check with my local jobs center....  Um, Duh!  I already came from there.  So, obviously, the governor and his staff are not capable of an intelligent response, or I would have gotten one from there.  Since they are only capable of responding in a patronizing way, they chose they weren't going to answer at all...  How nice.  BAD MOVE.

At least the couple of times I've contacted Van Wangaard, he was willing to at least talk to me via phone, if I could not make it up to Madison.  John Lehman and Cory Mason were both willing to meet me in person here, in Racine.  Bob Turner gave me a good recommendation to other state legislators stating I was a good person to have on their side.  Robin Vos is willing to at least hear me out, and if other area legislators (as in, those whose districts I belong in) want in, he's willing to work with them.  Then there is Thom Weatherston, who has continually blown off my emails.  Every. Single. Time.  Bad mistake.  I study politics, and follow as much as I can, w/o insanity.  I've come to be able to predict the outcome of the election with 95% accuracy, and the candidates I back & campaign for win, 90% of the time.  In with the 10% that don't win, half of those (5%) gave their opponents a run for their money.  In election time, if you're the candidate, I'm a good person to have.  While I cannot run your campaign for you, I can be the person to make the smaller changes necessary, because I don't mind going to the undecided, independent, swing voters, to try to get them on board.

Well, enough of a rant...  my good deed for the day is, I am going to post some of the available jobs out here, so my friends in need of work might be able to find something they can actually apply for.  Even if you don't need a job, please share with someone you think may be able to apply for any of these.

Assistant Office Administrator:
Full time administrative support specialist wanted for small sports publishing company in Racine.  Must be a detail-oriented multi-tasker with strong organizational and communication skills.  Technological proficiency required.  Task include scheduling, general administrative projects, database organization and maintenance, staff travel coordination and customer/client relations.  Works directly for the Administrative Director.  Related college degree and/or work experience mandatory.  Please respond to employment@referee.com or Referee Enterprises, Inc., P.O. Box 161, Franksville, WI 53216

Managing Editor Wanted:
Would you relish the opportunity to educate and inspire tens of thousands of sports officials through magazines, books, newsletters and digital offerings?  Do you like to "go deep" on stories to provide readers with unique perspectives?  Are you open-minded to new publishing and training technologies?  have you managed and led a team?  Are deadlines and details part of your DNA?  If so, we are looking for you.  Referee magazine and the National Association of Sports Officials are growing - and so too is our need for editorial leadership.  This is a full time, in-office position.  Related college degree and /or work experience mandatory.  Please write to Bill Topp, Vice President of Publishing at btopp@referee.com or Referee Enterprises, Inc., 2017 Lathrop Ave., Racine, WI 53405

Sports Editors Wanted:Referee magazine and the National Association of Sports Officials, the leaders in officiating education and advocacy, are in need of editorial staff.  We are looking for sports officials that have journalism/communication education and/or work experience.  Must have a passion for rules, mechanics and proper officiating techniques, with a desire to teach, challenge and inspire others.  Special consideration is given to those with baseball umpiring experience.  Multi-sport officials are especially appealing to us.  This is a full-time, in-office position.  Related college degree and/or experience mandatory.  Please write to
Bill Topp, Vice President of Publishing at btopp@referee.com or Referee Enterprises, Inc., 2017 Lathrop Ave., Racine, WI 53405

Teller - PT:
Cash handling & customer service skills preferred.  20/hrs/wk, including Saturdays &varying weekdays.  Flexibility required.
Email resume to:  StephanieHamilton@landmarkcu.com or mail to Landmark Credit Union, ATTN:  Stephanie Hamilton 1931 Grove Ave. Racine, WI 53405

School Bus Driver:
Durham School Services:  Become a school bus driver.  If you want a rewarding, part time job, apply today!!
* starting pay $12.36/hr  * 3 paid holidays  *Free Training  * Life insurance  * bring your children to work with you  *  Benefits available.
Applicants must under go a motor vehicle records check, drug check and criminal record check.  Certain rules apply!  Apply in person M-F 8-4 @ 1608 Oakes Rd. in Racine or call (262)8861312 or apply online at www.durhamschoolservices.com

Monday, August 25, 2014

He Sat On a Hat: Blogophilia 27.7

This is Week 27 of Year 7 in Blogophilia!

Sharpen your pencils, dive into your inkwells --
Put your troubles aside, rise above adversity!
Don't sit on the bench, don't let your muse dwell --
Come write with us in Blogophilia's Season Three!

Good Sunday morning, Earthlings!  Welcome as we begin a brand new season -- Season 3 of Year 7!!   All points from the last season will be added to the lifetime totals, and points reset to zero.  Since it's a new season, the slate is clean and the time is now to share your thoughts, poems and stories with us! :)

https://www.facebook.com/notes/marvin-martian/blogophilia-week-277-shehe-sat-on-the-bench/784807881540431

Bonus Points:
(Hard, 2 points) Use 2 characters from Marvel Comics and 2 from D.C. Comics
(Easy, 1 point) Have a character get lost

My, oh, my.

This is no hickory-dickory-dock.  No mouse ran up the clock.
Yipidy yikes!  But here is Thor and Loki!



Loki & ThorLoki & Thor



I know, I know!  Thor is a God, but, for me, it's Loki who steals my soul.
And oh, no!  Not some competition from the female hero?
Dipidy-doopidy!  It's Wonder Woman and Cat Woman!



Wonder Woman & Cat WomanWonder Woman & Cat Woman



Cat Woman is hot, but, Wonder Woman is the strength we cannot forgot.

The wind blows, the evil attacks, and Wonder Woman galore, Thor, he sat on a hat!
In the midst of chaos, oh, no!  Where is my Loki?  I am at a loss...
Where is that Sam I am, Cat in a hat?  But wait, what is the meaning of that?



It's a zoo!It's a zoo!



Topic:  Irene
Bonus Points:  Michael Todd & Nissemech
Picture:  Leta
Word/Phrase:  1) It's a zoo!  2) Safari  3) tropical cruise  4) Animal whisperer  5) exotic animals  6) lollipop world  7) Field trip  8) summer vacation  9) zoo colored glasses  10) modern Garden of Eden  11) paradise  12) Sarenghetti 13) Sahara

Sunday, August 24, 2014

Soup Kitchens, the State of the Economy, and Rants of a Mad Woman

Our Savior's Lutheran Church hosts a soup kitchen every Sunday for those who need to come in, whether it's because people are food insecure, just need company, or, in many cases, that's the only full meal they get, and appreciate the left overs that are given to them after the meal, so they can eat it for lunch the next day.  Many of the other Lutheran churches help staff the soup kitchens each Sunday, so it doesn't fall on one church to keep it up every Sunday.  I try to volunteer to serve when my church is hosting.  I don't mind, it's actually rewarding, because I relate with the fact that I am 1 paycheck away from needing to be on the other side of the service line.  I am fortunate.  I can get by.

But anyway, in the past, when I've volunteered for this particular soup kitchen, we usually had a line that covered one of the long walls, sometimes not even.  Today, not only did the line go all the way down the wall, it went around the corner and covered a second wall, and the line seemed a bit more scrunched together than usual.  Then, we even had stragglers coming in.  This was something along the line of 3 or 4 times more people, than I remember ever serving at one of these.  Granted, don't get me wrong.  It was satisfying to be of helpful service.  Really.  And I am glad that we had plenty of food, and not only did we not run out after giving 2nds, we had left overs to give.  I know, I already said that.  I was just impressed that we fed more people than usual AND had enough to give some to send home.

Seriously, though.  I don't know how many commercials that says that our economy is better, and that there are more jobs...  Really?  So, some of our politicians came to the opening celebration of some new businesses.  But, on the other hand, how many businesses closed, or downsized?  Porter's closed.  Lathrop Furniture closed.  Spartan's Gyro's closed.  Many others, also.  And of course let us not forget that SC Johnson had to downsize some of their staff, but also shipped a few hundred jobs to a different state.  And look also in the fact that we've lost tons of manufacturing jobs.  The number of jobs created, it seems, is smaller than the number of jobs lost.  this trend is showing in the numbers that are going to places like the soup kitchens and such.

I bet if we look at these organizations such as the Homeless Assistance Leadership Organization - http://www.haloinc.org/ and Safe Haven - http://www.safehavenofracine.org/ or the Women's Resource Center - http://www.wrcracine.com/ or the Racine/Kenosha Action - http://www.rkcaa.org/RKCAA/Food-security.htm - Seriously, if we ask them, they will probably be able to give numbers on how many they've served in the last couple of years.  We aren't really better off.  I've also talked to so many people that are currently out of work, or not enough work, and are in dire need of some or more employment that they currently have.

Thing is, I've been looking for a different job for about 7 years now.  Since finishing my Health Unit Coordinator courses back at the end of April, I stopped counting how many applications I've put out for HUC, CNA, HUC/CNA, medical receptionist, etc. at 105 apps.  Yes.  Stopped counting at 105 since April.  And I'm still filling out apps.  Over the last 7 years, not excluding my recent mega-push of apps, I've probably filled out apps for about 800-1000 positions.  I've had some interviews, maybe about 10, which have not turned out fruitful.  Again, I'm not complaining.  Yes, my back aches, I need my husband's help at home for most of the house keeping duties, and because hip and knee joints have to work harder to compensate for my back, they're starting to creak also.  At least I have a job, though doing any type of aid/nursing work is also very taxing on the back.  Most of the time with home care, you're there on your own, which makes it even harder.  At least in a hospital setting, there are people to partner up with for certain patients.

Well, anyway, I do have a B.A. in International Relations, with a minor in Political Science which I graduated from in 1995.  I have some office experience, as well as some experience teaching.  But, with as many cuts in education, and many people on the health exchange needing to go to the free health care site, I hope I'm not wasting my time trying to get back into either teaching, or further delving into some form of a health care office position.

So, with my personal experiences, and in talking to others, I am wondering how the governor or the president can even make a statement about the economy is better.  Maybe somewhere else.  But not here in S.E. Wisconsin.  With all this I hear about how the numbers are better, yet I meet people almost weekly, that they are looking for a better position, and not being able to find or get them.  Anyone with any advice for those of us who are broke is welcome to put it here in a comment.

Sunday, August 17, 2014

The Lonely Seas Prevail: Blogophilia 2.1

This is Week 26 of Year 7 in Blogophilia!


https://www.facebook.com/notes/marvin-martian/blogophilia-week-267-the-lonely-sea-prevails/779360362085183

Bonus Points:
(Hard, 2 points) Use a quote by Dante Alighieri
(Easy, 1 point) Incorporate the color of your eyes
Space.....  The final frontier....  These are the voyages of human kind....  To boldly want to go, where we can't.  Yet.


Sky desertSky desert


It's amazing how often, science fiction can help shape the future on technology.  Captain Kirk's communicators turned into cell phones.  The medical tricorders turned into ultrasound, and the other tricorders turned into metal detectors and such.  I like to use Star Trek as an example, because, well, imo, it's the best of sci fi along with the imagination of different species, action, etc.

I think we all would think it's cool to explore space, and find other intelligent life.  And if Star Trek can be achieved, I sometimes wonder if some of these other intelligent species, say like the Vulcans, have issues with the madness such as domestic violence, drugs, etc...  Even if there is strife with the Romulans, the Vulcans had it so they were on different planets.  They are the same people, divided by logic.

This futuristic theme, while it still has a great deal of turmoil and strife, also has many ideas that are ideal, such as not needing money, poverty along with malnutrition and lack of health care were no longer issues, racism and sexism eradicated, and intergalactic communication...  Globally.  While dealing with the issues on Star Trek, and it's modern, post today era, it makes me wonder if we are actually capable of even coming close to this. 

Thing is, there are so many issues to consider.  Race relations is just in a huge way is a problem here in this country.  Wage disparities still happen.  With each issue, it seems as if the liberals are pushing harder left, and the conservatives harder right.  At this pace, we are only going to create a political climate of bigger argument, stonewalling the other party, and too many arguments and not enough getting the job done.  I, personally think most of us Americans are more in the middle.  But, it's not just us.  Look at the Israel/Palestine wars, which have been going on, literally for centuries.  Eastern Europe still are fighting the religious wars, where the person/party in power chooses the national religion, and the religion in power influences the political climate.  These are many reasons why the boarders of these countries keep changing.  Of course then, there are the third world countries where poverty is the norm, and it's really hard to deal with, when babies die from starvation or some form of preventable diseases...

Well, I'll tell you, that this brown eyed girl agrees with Dante Alighieri when he states, "The darkest places in hell are reserved for those who maintain their neutrality in times of moral crises".  Right is right, even if you're the only one doing it, and wrong is still wrong even if everyone is doing it.  Yes, I realize it's the lonely seas prevail when it seems as if you're continuously taking the high road.  This high road isn't just about standing up for a cause, but, to not settle for second best when settling down with a mate, and what have you.  This is also why I stay convicted in my belief that someone needs to help make the social change to help abused children.

But, of course with all of the good people here in blogophilia, and the good people I go to open mic with, and then all of my awesome friends, there IS a chance, and hope that more people can pass the goodness forward.

Topic:  Barbara K.
Bonus points:  Stormy and Michael Tod
Picture:  Nina
Word/Phrase:  1) Desert Sky  2) spacial anomaly  3) electrical charge  4) marbled sky/land  5) galactic lights  6) Northern Ice Lights  7) distortion field  8) Time Warp  9) arctic cold

Friday, August 15, 2014

When Fear Turns to Anger, the Revolution Begins

As a college student, I was very active in the Student Government Association, and we were part of the state student association called United Council.  Jennifer Smith was the Women's Issues director, and she was pretty awesome.  I looked up to her in many ways, and was (and probably still is, if I knew how to contact her), a good role model for young women.  I'm not sure if this was her own, or if she found it someplace, but, for those of us who are in abusive relationships may not see, those who never were in one may not understand, but for us, who have survived and working on thriving, fully understand that for us to get out and be where we are now, that the scary step to say enough had to happen first.  It's at that point, when we understand that to reinvent ourselves from abuse victim to survivor, that "When fear turns to anger, the revolution begins"!!!

There is an underground war out there in the wilderness of the web (off of the web, also).  Child molesters.  Pedophiles.  Kiddie porn snuff films.  Human trafficking.  Sex slavery.  Even having to watch one of our parents be abused by the other is very traumatic.

As much as we don't want it to happen, it is there.  We cannot imagine them gone.  It is real.  It is here, and it's everywhere.

While many pedophiles are lurking at parks, carnivals, and other family events, ready to groom you and your children into trust and secret taboos...  Most offenders are known to the children and family as a pillar to society.  A well known coach.  A much loved teacher.  A supportive minister.  Success seems to surround them.  And it protects them.

No, this is NOT to scare you.  This is to inform you.  Too many of these perverts have such a good facade, their dark side is hidden.  This is no Darth Vader whose good side can be brought forth to stop the madness.  The good face is what protects them from what they really are.  MONSTERS!!!!!!!!  It is their place in society that makes this evil so unbelievable.  Blame the victim.  Children lie.  This can't happen in our society.  Mr. Doc would never do this...  This is what they are hoping for, and they take advantage of it.

This is yet the most grossly under reported crime, mostly because of the shame and the taboo still surrounding it.  Those that are reported don't go to trial.  The ones that go to trial, many get dismissed due to lack of biological evidence.  Those that make it through, the perpetrators rarely spend a day behind bars.  If a children are assaulted by a family member, they are often returned right back to the same scenario of where, why and how the crime happened in the first place.

Go check it out.  RAINN = Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network.  https://www.rainn.org/
Or try this one.  FBI = Federal Bureau of Investigation.  http://www.fbi.gov/stats-services/crimestats  or  http://www.fbi.gov/about-us/investigate/vc_majorthefts/cac/crimes_against_children

A single mother needing her father to babysit her daughter...  She shouldn't have to take sides.  Or a married, divorced, and remarried couple, with an older step brother and a younger step sister...  The parent of the victim shouldn't have to choose between the spouse and their child...  Really?  Seriously?  Well shit!  I don't care WHO you are.  You touch MY kid the wrong way, I will KILL you, by ANY MEANS NECESSARY!

Normal parents are like me.  Which is why these damned pedophile go further underground.  But some parents defend the pedophile, I don't know why.  But these are why I advocate!  I hear the stories.  I feel the pain.  So I try to legislate.  Some politicians are good listeners.  Others may try to write it up.  Too often, not serious enough.

Too many supposedly "support" my mission, but are too chicken to step up to the plate.  This is NOT a party issue.  Stop politicizing.  Children are dying at the hands of these assholes who abuse them.  The suicide rate for those victimized by sex abuse is much higher than even those who are mentally ill.  Step up, don't shut up, or you're supporting them.  Don't be afraid, because when fear turns to anger, the revolution begins.

Take part in supporting the Youth Voice Initiative now.
Facebook YVI page - https://www.facebook.com/pages/Youth-Voice-Initiative/128824388322
Facebook group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/242664125766646/
Google Sites - https://sites.google.com/site/youthvoiceinitiative/home
Google + - https://plus.google.com/110861357454817276767/posts
Care2 - http://www.care2.com/c2c/people/profile.html?pid=872573004
Linked In - https://www.linkedin.com/profile/view?id=48693783&trk=nav_responsive_tab_profile

I hope to get more people involved.

Sunday, August 10, 2014

Our Time Is Up (A Festival Experience): Blogophilia 25.7

This is Week 25 of Year 7 in Blogophilia!


Our time is almost up this season,
Just two weeks remain to write!
Time to put those pens to paper
And let those ideas take flight!
Good Sunday morning, Earthlings. It's that time of the week, time for a new topic and pictures, time to share your thoughts, poems and stories with us! :)

https://www.facebook.com/notes/marvin-martian/blogophilia-week-257-our-time-is-up/779359282085291

Bonus Points:
(Hard, 2 points) Incorporate 2 Motown song titles
(Easy, 1 point) Mention a clown


So our time is up soon for the summer season of Blogophilia, and so it is for summer festivals.  I had the opportunity to go up to the Arab Fest in Milwaukee, WI - I was looking forward to it.  And the three of us, my husband Mike, my son Chad, and I all had a fun & interesting time there.

Walking into the west end of the Summerfest grounds, there was this so called Christian group, handing out pamphlets and other "Christian" information, as some kind of quiet protest and rather than a picket, it was hate type information against Arab people in general, across the street.  I tried to ensure that my husband and son NOT engage with these people, to just keep walking, and keep going right past them, they were both handed this same booklet.  It's a comic book style set up, depicting money and greed - worshiping wealth over helping others as being an Arab "king".  When I actually looked at it, I was irked that my son something like this.

Seriously, this type of thing is NOT Christian teaching, and Sugar Pie Honey Bunch, I tell you, I know a Christian when I see one, and these people definitely are NOT it.  I'm sure they think so.  On the way out, walking past, a man was there that was NOT there when we walked in, asking about my son and the love of Jesus.  I just firmly told this clown, "You people need help".  And kept walking.  According to Mike, he had this dumbfounded look on his face, as if he didn't understand.  Well, I know my faith.  I am taught not to hate others.  With this type of message to others, their fate is Signed, Sealed and Delivered, so I hope that they wake up and use some sense about their beliefs.

But, I digress...  We went in, and looked at a couple of the out door markets they had there.  Both had multiple vendors, and it was really neat.  Some of the things are Egyptians, and parts of northern Africa are considered part of the Muslim faith block over there, in the Near/Middle East Asia.  One of the vendors have anklets...  I like those.  One of my friends had given me one years back, and that style anklet is my favorite, with the small jingles on them.  We also learned a little bit of the culture and beliefs.  It is curious that just as with OUR faith, some do misinterpret things to do evil, rather than good, and these few bad apples spoil it for the bushel. 

After looking through the various vendors, and signing a petition for a lady who came as a sexually abused teen, who wanted to seek safety here in the states, because she was basically a sex slave where she was.  After 10 years, she tried to apply for citizenship.  She was denied.  Now, 20 years after she has been here, and yes, the government knows she's been here, the government now wants to deport her because she is an activist, and quite a strong one, for issues like sex slavery and other issues that tackle international and domestic treatment of others.  So I signed a petition and a post card on her behalf.  It's cases like this that make it so people come here undocumented.  We also learned about some of the other things that are a part of modern medicine, farming, etc are based at least a little bit on Arab contribution.  Our numbering system is an Arabic  system.


Alien jazz trioAlien jazz trio


Arabic BandArabic Band


Then, we went over to the Miller Lite stand, where they had belly dancers, a female group singing Arab style songs, as well as a full band with bongo, keyboard, another key/string type instrument, guitar, and a singer, and they were pretty good.  The announcer came down and got a group of us going on teaching us how to do a dubka (dub ka) which is Arabic line dancing.  We hold hands, and do a few steps.  Your left foot steps 2 steps to the right, then left foot kick, and a step to the right.  It took me a bit to catch on, because we lead with our left foot, but move to the right...  Then, there were other ones, too, a total of 3 variations on this line dance.  It was so fun!  I just wish that my joints worked better...  I had to sit down after a bit, and my left hip just was not going to take much more in this dancing thing.  :(

The band I danced to is an Arab singer named John Khoury - and here is his link...  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tR9aIcmFpqg


doing the dubkadoing the dubka


After watching belly dancers, singers and bands, we went over to see what else was being offered.  There were games for small children, even slightly older children, food, and we got to sample Arabic lemon chicken and spicy chicken.  All good...  And then off to a food demonstration.  We got to sample salad as well as stuffed grape leaves.  Even got the recipe for the grape leaves.  :)


Food demonstrationFood demonstration


To finish the day, my son and I went on the skylift to check out the grounds.  Arab Fest only took a small portion, and all in all, we had a very nice time.  Hopefully, we will be able to go next year, to have a bigger experience for it.


skyliftskylift



Topic:  Trevor
Bonus Points:  Tyler and Linda
Picture:  Jessica
Word/phrase  1) alien jazz band  2) birth of be-bonk  3) Walking base  4) swing band  5) dixieland  6) skinny on music  7) lullaby  8) Spanish guitars  9) Jammin' up Hip St.  10) Jammin' Men  11) Marti Gras  12) Jazz dance  13) modern art  14) wall art  15) celebration  16) performing arts  17) creative thinking

Sunday, August 3, 2014

Guardian Angel: Blogophilia 24.7

Have you ever felt an ethereal presence,
an inner sense of someone guiding you through?
Bask in the comfort that you are not alone,
there are guardian angels watching over you!

(Marvin Martian and Commander K are watching over you, too!!!)

Good Sunday morning, Earthlings. It's that time of the week, time for a new topic and pictures, time to share your thoughts, poems and stories with us! :)

https://www.facebook.com/notes/777020152319204/

Bonus Points:
(Hard, 2 points) Use an Onomatopoeia
(Easy, 1 point) Include a path that we travel


motherly love boardmotherly love board


As a progressive and a person of faith, often, it is difficult to walk on the edge, because many progressives are very casual about their faith, if any, and many are either more spiritual rather than religious, or try to be more logical than spiritual.  I don't consider myself to be very religious, even if the church I am a member of is very progressive, considering the type of church.  Of course, many of my ultra conservative acquaintances don't figure that I can be of faith, AND progressive at the same time, although my politically conservative friends understand, just fine.

Whether we are Christian, Jewish, Wiccan, Muslim, Buddhist, Native Spirituality, etc.... , many of us believe that there is a guardian angel out there, regardless of if this is an ancestor, or just for babies/toddlers, or one of God's Angels, etc...  But, often, I think that we need more.  Our abused children are always negatively affected.  1 in 4 girls and one in 6 boys will be sexually assaulted by the time they are 18.  If people go to college, those numbers are scarier.  1 in 3 young women, and 1 in 4 young men will have been sexually assaulted by the time they are 25.  Many of these large campuses are so big on sports, that if the perpetrator is a football, basketball or soccer star on the varsity team, often, the abuser won't face ANY punishment at all, and may end up telling the victim that they were lucky that a guy like this wanted to pay attention to them.

All too often, sex abuses don't get reported.  Of the minority of them that do, rarely do the perpetrators see a day in prison, much less get the sex offender treatment.  The treatment needs 3 years of diligence, to even have a chance of working.  If perpetrators are released upon their sentence before the 3 years are up, the likelihood of them finishing treatment is little to none, because sexual perpetrators are all about justifying why they are right and everyone else is wrong, for power and control issues, and will be full of excuses of why they "can't" make it to their group sessions.

While I know, I realize that there are a ton of other groups out there that talk about things like this, and push the statistics to make people aware, such as RAINN - Rape, Abuse, Incest National Network - https://www.rainn.org/statistics, and plenty of other ones, and then there is the FBI to try to press charges...  http://www.fbi.gov/about-us/investigate/vc_majorthefts/cac/crimes_against_children

These are good sources, as well as much needed ones...  But, awareness campaigns alone cannot push the social changes far enough, which is why I go off the beaten path to try to talk to area legislators to ensure that we are protecting our abused children.  Get this, again, for I don't know how many times, we have a case here in my home town about a next door neighbor who only got one year for molesting the young girl, mainly because he has no other criminal charges, ever.  http://journaltimes.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/prison-for-neighbor-in-assault/article_bafd9568-bd10-5afd-b48e-3120db757747.html

I agree with the sentiments of this blogger.  http://www.jtirregulars.com/2011/03/sympathy-for-devil.html

I am no angel, but I AM a guardian, who will be willing to go to the Capitol to fight for this cause.  Hopefully, when things go well, KAZAM!  These nasty perpetrators will have to try to restrain themselves, or risk being arrested.  Only 2% are false accusations.  It is my goal, to be a lighthouse, so to speak, for those who don't have a voice, and all too often, people of any age who are experiencing abuse, don't have much of a voice.  As a faithful, I am rogue, because I don't necessarily follow the rules of endearment.  But, as a progressive faithful, I am called to do this.  I can't really take credit for pushing my conviction, since advocacy and following the American government policy to ensure that I am part of the system of "for the people, by the people" is really exciting for me.  I guess my personality was built for this.  So, it's like birds warbling, cats meowing, dogs barking, etc...  I just hope that some day sooner than later, I will have warm bodies show up on a regular basis to be able to do a bigger push than what I am capable of on my own.

Peace out.

Topic - Trevor
Bonus points - Tyler and Nissemech
Picture - Irene
Word/Phrase - 1) Motherly Love Board  2) Online relationships  3) hot mother board  4) hard drive to follow  5) computer overload  6) hot PC  7) I love my computer  8) my friends live in my computer  9) Exciting World Wide Web  10) The Matrix  11) Neo & Trinity  12) Hal 2000  13) Johnny Mneumonic  14) computer takeover  15) online dating  16) I, Robot  17) Hacked Lover  18) Electric dreams  19) Her  20) Flubber

Friday, August 1, 2014

Land of the Free Policies and Immigration

The mid term elections are coming up.  And, I'm reiterating my stance that everyone should try to study their area legislators and the hopefuls, and to go vote their conscience.  Even if you don't like anyone, please don't make a mockery and write in Mickey Mouse or Bugs Bunny.  Your ballot will be tossed in full.  Write in yourself, or another real and living person, who you think would be good.  This at least says that you are protesting the current candidates, while still counting your ballot.

Anyway.  Here we are, living in the Land of the Free.  Land of Plenty.  Land of Opportunity.  We aren't known this way, in the good ole' US of A for nothing.  Since the beginning, when the settlers came in to this new country, that there was a lot of opportunity, here.  A lot has happened since then.  And we still have a huge potential to be that.  Seriously.

Yes, I know, I know.  Our country is struggling in many ways.  High unemployment.  So many low paying jobs.  Underemployment.  Taxes are also an issue.  Many people need assistance.  And we have this so called group, called illegal aliens stealing American jobs.  Really?

Chrysler had a plant in Kenosha, WI.  Many people made good money there.  It is one of many closed sites.  Here is what is listed for them, as far as open operations and closed plants.  Most of the ones closed are here in the USA.  And there are other car companies as well.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Chrysler_factories

Name brand shoes such as Nike, have many locations abroad, as well as clothing lines.  So what does this mean?  Really?
http://www.nbcnews.com/id/7480688/ns/business-us_business/t/nike-reveals-overseas-factory-names-locations/#.U9xeSSjG9jI

Okay, so seriously.  We have people saying we have to go where the jobs are.  But, then want to tell me that I'm being ridiculous, when I say that these high paying jobs went to other countries, and most Americans want the jobs back here, rather than to move out of the country.  And then don't want to explain how that is ridiculous.  These companies had high paying jobs, many with benefits.  Yet for some reason, they jump ship from here, and go to other countries where labor is cheep, and benefits are unheard of.

Because of these jobs to overseas, many people are unemployed, or just plain don't make enough.  In this day and age, to comfortably support a family of 3, which includes having a mortgage, a reliable vehicle, insurance on the house, car and health, well balanced meals, and a little to put away for a rainy day.  Hopefully, it will amount to something.  But, the type of jobs I see advertised, are either menial jobs that pay minimum wage and not much more.  These jobs are retail, such as gas stations, fleet type stores, etc...  And almost always, part time with no benefits.  For each of these part time jobs available, there are, depending on where you live in this country, there are up to 400 or so applicants.  The chances of getting hired are pretty slim against those odds.  So, what about the other jobs that these so called illegal immigrants are stealing?

Well, I'll tell you.  These jobs are back breaking jobs, such as being a migrant worker on various farms, that they need to literally travel from place to place to keep making a living.  No, you can't take your children with you.  Nor your spouse.  It only pays minimally, usually less than minimum wage, and because of the type of work, probably single men or even dads are being hired.  These are some of your "illegal aliens".  Other ones have to leave their families behind to be live in care givers for the elderly, because it's cheaper than paying a home care agency to staff them 24/7.  These people do not get paid very much, and are usually women, who have children living back where they came from, because their homeland does not have jobs for the men, nor the women, either.

Tell me, what American father is going to take a $2.00/hr to travel around the country picking tomatoes & peppers, pumpkins, and what ever is in season, literally around the country?  What American mother is going to leave her children behind, while she goes and works for an elderly person for $300/wk, while she misses the milestones of her own children, while doing back breaking aid work?  So no, these immigrants are NOT taking American jobs, they're taking jobs that no American wants, such as working at duck farms.

Now, about these immigrants...  They are itching to leave their countries for a reason.  They are risking everything.  Literally.  To come for a chance for a better life.  No, not all of them "follow the rules".  I know.  Rules are there for a reason.  And yes, people should follow the rules.  But, when these rules take 10 years to be put through, there is a problem.  A whole family could get killed by their own government, and keep going for a whole bunch more in this time frame.  These people are willing to die for their freedom, which is how this country got established.

Our Founding Fathers came over, and because of tyranny, revolted against their homeland.  But think about when the Puritans and the settlers who came over.  The Old World didn't know that the Americas existed.  The New World didn't know that Eurasia existed.  Did they have rules to come into this country?  We credit our Caucasian ancestors in building this country.  At what expense?  Thousands of Native Americans died, due to the diseases that were brought over.  Then there are the old cowboy criminals, shooting down whom ever.  Then, during the gold rush, many American Indians who were squatters and refused to give up their land were also shot and killed.  I'm not saying that everything of bad.  But, these reservations are often bad lands that are unfit for farming.  Warring tribes were often put on the same land, hoping they'd kill each other off, over the scarce food that was available.  And the taking still continues.

No one told the French, English, or Spaniards to leave because they are illegal aliens.  When many of the Eastern Europeans were coming over, there were rules, such as being clean and bug free, as well as disease free.  Those who didn't make the criterion were sent back onto the boat.  At least this is what I understand from stories that come from my Hungarian great grandfather.  But to say that we should close off the borders to this country is just absurd.  This isn't what this country is built on.  yet, many think that the American look is the blond-haired, blue-eyed-beauty.  Um, excuse me, that is a northern European, not an original American.

Sure, I agree that there should be protocol.  But to ship high paying jobs overseas, and expecting Americans to work 3 or more part time job to make ends meet, and closing off all of our boarders is not the answer.  Bring the factories back.  With those, with high tech  computers to assist with production, along with making medical supplies, we could hire even more high payed employees, because there will be more IT type positions than before.  Let the tired, poor, hungry, weathered people seek refuge.  This country can again be the land of plenty, without kicking out the immigrants and letting these companies leave.  By bringing high paying jobs, there is a broader and more higher tax base.  With these numbers, each group will see their tax rate fall, because more people would be working.  the debts would be paid.  crime will go down with more work available.  People would have better things to do, because they have money to spend.

Rather than party politics, we need real common sense applied to these issues.  Career politicians need not apply, unless they are willing to be independent thinkers.  While we work on this, we also need to ensure that there is equal pay for equal work.  To say women aren't deserving of as much pay for the same or equal position, we keep many working mothers/wives out of the loop and kept in poverty, rather than the house hold bread earner.  Yes, we exist, and we deserve the same respect as our male counterparts.

While they're at it, hey, where is the support for our current and past military families?  They totally deserve better, while our elected officials get paid swell, with Cadillac insurance plans, and gold plated retirement plans.  The veterans are getting chicken feed.  This totally needs to change!