Back in April, my 19-year-old son treated me to the Billy Joel concert up at Miller Park Stadium. Yes, I corrupted him... He loves classic rock. Other concerts he has gone to include ZZ Top and The Who. Definitely a boy after his mother's heart. I am fortunate.
I wonder if it is because growing up myself, I'd always been a music head, and love classical music, jazz, etc. I even play clarinet and tenor saxophone, sang in the jazz choir, and can't imagine my life w/o music. My son also is a musician. As a preschooler, he'd sneak my harmonica and play along to his favorite cartoon shows at the beginning. He now plays trumpet and is learning how to play acoustic guitar. Yes, I'm bragging just a little bit...
To make things more interesting, I'd been involved at a young age helping out with various campaigns to get people elected since I was about 9, and got him started around the same age, maybe slightly older. We also love Science Fiction. We try to see every sci-fi flick that comes out on the big screen together, even if it's on $5/Tuesdays or at the Value Cinema. It's pretty fun. Everything from Star Trek to X-Men to whatever else that comes out... Plus we love action, thrillers, and so much more. I hope we can continue to do things together as he goes on, though I realize it will be a lot less often.
So, when I found out that my friend, Soldwolf is writing a military sci-fi story filled with action, humor and even a little romance story called Meeting the Parents, I was interested. Because I like the story so much, I decided that I just have to share it, because it's too good not to share. It's a neat storyline featuring a hero from post-unification Earth, where he is serving in the UN military, and his love is from a prominent family on a planet called Tamal, a humanoid race that evolved from herbivores. This Tamalnii heroine is such an endearing character, you'll be cheering on for her and her people as well as for her and her studly to make it through to the end.
Chapter 41: Post Takedowns - With so much going on, people need to chill out to make out sensible reports... Oh, the info collected is huge. I'm just wondering what kind of smackdown is awaiting in the future...
Happy reading! I hope you enjoy it as much as I am.
Showing posts with label passion. Show all posts
Showing posts with label passion. Show all posts
Thursday, June 27, 2019
Thursday, May 30, 2019
Just where does my time go, seriously?
People who’ve known me for a long time know that I am a busy person, and even if I have some open time, it can fill up quickly. I’m always up to something, whether it’s working, spending time with my friends, or best yet - doing something adventurous with my son Chad. Regardless, you can always count on me being a “trouble maker” of sorts, where I like to believe that I’m working toward improving the quality of life for at least a small group of people, whether it be survivors of sex abuse or domestic violence, improving the quality/quantity of jobs for those seeking (better) employment, or whatever else may require me to be the advocate that I am. It’s just in this case, rather than being community activated to push a political or legal agenda, it’s actually giving me a lot of personal satisfaction in helping in my small little way in the name of humanity and making my corner of the world a little bit at the Hospitality Center. No, I do not work in the entertainment business. Nor do I work for a hotel/motel chain. This actually has less to do with the hospitality industry as it does touching the daily lives of those in the greatest need in my fair city within the Badger State called Racine, WI.
As the Mission Statement states in the Hospitality Center website, is: To provide hospitality without agenda to those in need or underserved in Racine - the homeless, near homeless and mentally ill. At a glance, it sounds nice. Simple enough. Yet it goes so far beyond that. This place literally welcomes everybody, offers a judgment-free zone, and offers so much more than just some meals.
While I’ve been familiar with the Hospitality Center since it’s inception, and have given little bits of whatever I had, it’s only been since mid May of 2018 until present where I’ve been here regularly and somehow became a part of the daily grind, and I’m surprised they actually LIKE me around here, if you actually believe it or not!
It is located inside of St. Luke’s Episcopal Church and the hours of the center are Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays & Fridays from 7:30 am -1 pm - some exceptions for holidays apply but inquire before assuming whether they will be open or not. Reverend Seth is the minister for the church as well as the Executive Director of the center, and Carl is the Program Manager for the Hospitality Center as well as having other important titles for other organizations.
These two guys seriously put in a lot of work for this place, and it’s really been a positive experience working with these two guys, who have grown on me in various ways. The regular staff & volunteers are pretty neat, too, and if you ever come in, please insist on getting some Navy coffee.
Of course, the staff (paid and volunteer) works hard to ensure that the meals are available for all. One super cool lady insists on offering a hot breakfast because it’s the most important meal of the day, and the clients who have the least are who she thinks most about when offering this service. But what’s breakfast w/o coffee? Yes, there is a bottomless pot, one is always brewing, and thank goodness for that, because if I’m a fiend for anything, it’s a good cup of java! One guy, in particular, has me spoiled. I make some good stuff, but his rates even better than my Godmother’s (just please do not tell her that). While the coffee is good the whole time, the hot breakfast is from 7:30-8:30, and fresh donuts, muffins and more are offered until 10.
There is always a nice, hot dinner served at 11:30 with a choice of beverages. It is always a healthy and well-balanced smorgasbord that you can brag to your doctor about. Most of the time, it is our staff & volunteers who prepare and serve the meal, but on occasion, we get some really awesome people in the community who come in, and they even cater the food, too! I’m sure the kitchen staff/volunteers are grateful when they get these types of breaks because normally they are going overtime with busting out their moves getting the good food out & serving cafeteria style. Fortunately for me, it does not make MY job any easier.
On Tuesdays & Fridays, there are AA meetings at 9 am. All are welcome. Approximately every 8 weeks on a Monday, there are free haircuts for those who need to update their hair, whether it’s to shave it in the summer or just to clean up the tips. Thursdays are when it seems everything else happens... Sign up for healthcare, dental check-ups, clothing banks, and today, Aurora healthcare was there doing women’s well checkups because it’s always good to take care of your breast health.
This is the 1st time I know of that they’re here, and it’s possible that Aurora may come back in the future with other health programs to cover other exams, so please stay tuned, you never know if the life it changes is yours, and in that event, it might be good to know that EVERY Thursday is clothing day, and there are lockers you can use temporarily utilize a locker while you stay and enjoy the company of others. I, for one, am thankful that the volunteers who keep the clothing bank straight are there because have a look, who wouldn’t want to “shop” for free here? They just ask that you only take what is needed, and if there is a shortage of clothing, there may be limits to what is able to be given out at any certain time. There is always a need for clothing of all sizes, especially undergarments, socks, women’s hygiene, personal hygiene, and more. The people who put this together definitely go above and beyond the call of duty.
Yes, it’s impressive at all of the services that are offered, but most importantly, it offers a place for people to connect, and for those who are in poverty, it helps people not get that sense of social disconnect. Seriously, this place is perfect for anyone who needs a place to go, something to do, and people to see. While for me, personally, yes, I can go anywhere and adapt to what it is, especially when it comes to talking in front of elected officials to talk about what needs to be done, the Hospitality Center goes beyond that. When I first arrived as an intern to do administrative work, I thought I was just going to be offering my professional services in the office and maybe offering some of my own hospitality to add to what was already there, which was easy. What I didn’t expect was to be given some of that back, and while it was awkward for me to try to accept it at the beginning, it actually kind of feels nice that this unlikely clientele would be part of the group giving the vibes back. I don’t ask for much, but I feel like I really do get more than I give (which isn’t much) and it’s huge.
I invite, actually dare you to come in and have a look around. And make sure you stay a bit, and not just once, either. Come in regularly, even if it’s once a month, and see what it transforms into for you. IF you’re lucky, I’ll share some of that good coffee with you, and we’ll talk a bit and take it from there.
In the spirit of keeping with good things going on at the Hospitality Center, my dear friend Soldwolf, the author of the Military Sci-Fi story called Meeting the Parents, also is a volunteer, who makes the awesome coffee. With the amount of work he puts in, Soldwolf is extremely valuable to the entire staff, paid and unpaid there. Sometimes he's misunderstood, but in reality, a good guy who is also funny, smart, and a great friend. He's there all 4 days but doesn't always stay for the whole time, so if you're especially lucky, you'll be able to meet the guy whose coffee won my heart over but do me a favor, don't let him know that I'll fight for that last cup... Sh! Just be a dear and read his next 4 chapters, will you? This retired Navy guy deserves your support in this endeavor to get his story published into a real book.
Chapter 29: Lunch & Phone Calls delves into some interesting info on ships designed for space, and how it can be difficult to juggle personal and professional business (especially when you have to clear intergalactic military clearances) with a business lunch and formal calls to family.
Chapter 30: Phone Calls & Introductions dang... It would be cool to have video calls to meet and get introduced to new people, and I like the international flair of having a multiethnic earth unit. The family affairs can get quite complicated and interesting, but is it time to start biting our nails or do they have it? It's business before pleasure for sure, especially in military life... The tension builds. How fast can these people work?
Chapter 31: Meetings & Arrivals It's interesting that in this day, we are still figuring out how to understand fellow Earthlings of different cultures, yet in the future, it's all about knowing how to fit in with the other humanoid species from other galaxies. The way it pans out often is hilarious, and hope that the snafus are at a minimum, and if not, at least workable. In the meantime, enjoy the humor in getting to learn & know the various cultural customs. And oh, the seduction! Wow. I think maybe a new vent system is in order, but then maybe it's the heat coming off of the active military personnel...
Chapter 32: Celebrations We all know that the bride-to-be's family is good for throwing the parties. It's even more fun when the groom-to-be's family does the same, and it's heartwarming to be able to see certain things. Just like earthlings, "alien" culture also revolves around the arts as well, which is refreshing to know. I wonder what Talmanii music sounds like? Hmm. I just know that sometimes it's interesting as to how we have to balance family & work business.
As the Mission Statement states in the Hospitality Center website, is: To provide hospitality without agenda to those in need or underserved in Racine - the homeless, near homeless and mentally ill. At a glance, it sounds nice. Simple enough. Yet it goes so far beyond that. This place literally welcomes everybody, offers a judgment-free zone, and offers so much more than just some meals.
While I’ve been familiar with the Hospitality Center since it’s inception, and have given little bits of whatever I had, it’s only been since mid May of 2018 until present where I’ve been here regularly and somehow became a part of the daily grind, and I’m surprised they actually LIKE me around here, if you actually believe it or not!
It is located inside of St. Luke’s Episcopal Church and the hours of the center are Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays & Fridays from 7:30 am -1 pm - some exceptions for holidays apply but inquire before assuming whether they will be open or not. Reverend Seth is the minister for the church as well as the Executive Director of the center, and Carl is the Program Manager for the Hospitality Center as well as having other important titles for other organizations.
These two guys seriously put in a lot of work for this place, and it’s really been a positive experience working with these two guys, who have grown on me in various ways. The regular staff & volunteers are pretty neat, too, and if you ever come in, please insist on getting some Navy coffee.
Of course, the staff (paid and volunteer) works hard to ensure that the meals are available for all. One super cool lady insists on offering a hot breakfast because it’s the most important meal of the day, and the clients who have the least are who she thinks most about when offering this service. But what’s breakfast w/o coffee? Yes, there is a bottomless pot, one is always brewing, and thank goodness for that, because if I’m a fiend for anything, it’s a good cup of java! One guy, in particular, has me spoiled. I make some good stuff, but his rates even better than my Godmother’s (just please do not tell her that). While the coffee is good the whole time, the hot breakfast is from 7:30-8:30, and fresh donuts, muffins and more are offered until 10.
There is always a nice, hot dinner served at 11:30 with a choice of beverages. It is always a healthy and well-balanced smorgasbord that you can brag to your doctor about. Most of the time, it is our staff & volunteers who prepare and serve the meal, but on occasion, we get some really awesome people in the community who come in, and they even cater the food, too! I’m sure the kitchen staff/volunteers are grateful when they get these types of breaks because normally they are going overtime with busting out their moves getting the good food out & serving cafeteria style. Fortunately for me, it does not make MY job any easier.
On Tuesdays & Fridays, there are AA meetings at 9 am. All are welcome. Approximately every 8 weeks on a Monday, there are free haircuts for those who need to update their hair, whether it’s to shave it in the summer or just to clean up the tips. Thursdays are when it seems everything else happens... Sign up for healthcare, dental check-ups, clothing banks, and today, Aurora healthcare was there doing women’s well checkups because it’s always good to take care of your breast health.
This is the 1st time I know of that they’re here, and it’s possible that Aurora may come back in the future with other health programs to cover other exams, so please stay tuned, you never know if the life it changes is yours, and in that event, it might be good to know that EVERY Thursday is clothing day, and there are lockers you can use temporarily utilize a locker while you stay and enjoy the company of others. I, for one, am thankful that the volunteers who keep the clothing bank straight are there because have a look, who wouldn’t want to “shop” for free here? They just ask that you only take what is needed, and if there is a shortage of clothing, there may be limits to what is able to be given out at any certain time. There is always a need for clothing of all sizes, especially undergarments, socks, women’s hygiene, personal hygiene, and more. The people who put this together definitely go above and beyond the call of duty.
Yes, it’s impressive at all of the services that are offered, but most importantly, it offers a place for people to connect, and for those who are in poverty, it helps people not get that sense of social disconnect. Seriously, this place is perfect for anyone who needs a place to go, something to do, and people to see. While for me, personally, yes, I can go anywhere and adapt to what it is, especially when it comes to talking in front of elected officials to talk about what needs to be done, the Hospitality Center goes beyond that. When I first arrived as an intern to do administrative work, I thought I was just going to be offering my professional services in the office and maybe offering some of my own hospitality to add to what was already there, which was easy. What I didn’t expect was to be given some of that back, and while it was awkward for me to try to accept it at the beginning, it actually kind of feels nice that this unlikely clientele would be part of the group giving the vibes back. I don’t ask for much, but I feel like I really do get more than I give (which isn’t much) and it’s huge.
I invite, actually dare you to come in and have a look around. And make sure you stay a bit, and not just once, either. Come in regularly, even if it’s once a month, and see what it transforms into for you. IF you’re lucky, I’ll share some of that good coffee with you, and we’ll talk a bit and take it from there.
In the spirit of keeping with good things going on at the Hospitality Center, my dear friend Soldwolf, the author of the Military Sci-Fi story called Meeting the Parents, also is a volunteer, who makes the awesome coffee. With the amount of work he puts in, Soldwolf is extremely valuable to the entire staff, paid and unpaid there. Sometimes he's misunderstood, but in reality, a good guy who is also funny, smart, and a great friend. He's there all 4 days but doesn't always stay for the whole time, so if you're especially lucky, you'll be able to meet the guy whose coffee won my heart over but do me a favor, don't let him know that I'll fight for that last cup... Sh! Just be a dear and read his next 4 chapters, will you? This retired Navy guy deserves your support in this endeavor to get his story published into a real book.
Chapter 29: Lunch & Phone Calls delves into some interesting info on ships designed for space, and how it can be difficult to juggle personal and professional business (especially when you have to clear intergalactic military clearances) with a business lunch and formal calls to family.
Chapter 30: Phone Calls & Introductions dang... It would be cool to have video calls to meet and get introduced to new people, and I like the international flair of having a multiethnic earth unit. The family affairs can get quite complicated and interesting, but is it time to start biting our nails or do they have it? It's business before pleasure for sure, especially in military life... The tension builds. How fast can these people work?
Chapter 31: Meetings & Arrivals It's interesting that in this day, we are still figuring out how to understand fellow Earthlings of different cultures, yet in the future, it's all about knowing how to fit in with the other humanoid species from other galaxies. The way it pans out often is hilarious, and hope that the snafus are at a minimum, and if not, at least workable. In the meantime, enjoy the humor in getting to learn & know the various cultural customs. And oh, the seduction! Wow. I think maybe a new vent system is in order, but then maybe it's the heat coming off of the active military personnel...
Chapter 32: Celebrations We all know that the bride-to-be's family is good for throwing the parties. It's even more fun when the groom-to-be's family does the same, and it's heartwarming to be able to see certain things. Just like earthlings, "alien" culture also revolves around the arts as well, which is refreshing to know. I wonder what Talmanii music sounds like? Hmm. I just know that sometimes it's interesting as to how we have to balance family & work business.
Monday, May 27, 2019
Memorial Day Remembrance
Happy Memorial Day to you all, especially our veterans and others who have served in various ways. I truly appreciate you. In appreciation of those I'm lucky enough to call friends, I'm toasting deployment coffee to you all.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zudFEvTj9H0
Each year on this day, I go out to the cemetery to visit my family plot. My maternal grandfather never served in the military, but when the WWII draft was out, he was a newlywed to my grandmother with a young child who is my Godmother. He was given the choice, with a young family between being drafted or to work full-time at a factory to help with the war effort. He chose to work at the factory, thus giving him 3 full-time jobs total - 1) executive at Knight Barry Abstract Company (which his father-in-law owned) 2) factory war effort and 3) a devoted family man who swore to support his family. He's really the best grandfather anyone could possibly ask for.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zudFEvTj9H0
Each year on this day, I go out to the cemetery to visit my family plot. My maternal grandfather never served in the military, but when the WWII draft was out, he was a newlywed to my grandmother with a young child who is my Godmother. He was given the choice, with a young family between being drafted or to work full-time at a factory to help with the war effort. He chose to work at the factory, thus giving him 3 full-time jobs total - 1) executive at Knight Barry Abstract Company (which his father-in-law owned) 2) factory war effort and 3) a devoted family man who swore to support his family. He's really the best grandfather anyone could possibly ask for.
The rest of the family plot includes my great grandparents (my grandmother's parents who owned the title company at one time), my great grandmother's father, my cousin (who was the above-mentioned aunt's 3-week old daughter) and my 1st son. My grandparents are to the left.
Not too far away is my former mother and father in law, my son's paternal grandparents, who called me their other daughter until they died, and I am forever grateful. The Greenbay Packers kitchen magnet and money clip were placed there back in 2003 (my mother in law was an avid fan) and they are still there, to cheer on today.
While we're there, we pick 2 random graves to clean, where it's obvious that there aren't any family members available to do so. 1 is always a veteran, and then at least one more. Today, we did 2 more. One was for a woman who's grave was completely covered over, and almost didn't recognize it as someone's grave. The other was for a girl who died just before her 6th birthday back in 1937, and I placed a pinwheel for her (as I do for the 2 babies in my own family). It's a quirky tradition I started...
I’d like to remember some relatives who have served and are no longer with us, whether they passed during their service or served and returned to civilian life: Great Uncle Wally Patrick - US Army in WWII. 1st stepfather John Haggard Sr - US Marines in Vietnam. Uncle Norbert “Torp” Saliscente US Navy in WWII. Others whose service is still under research...
While honoring those who gave it their all, I'd also like to give special kudos for present veterans, particularly Soldwolf, an author, who I consider a good friend that I'm fortunate to have. I'd like you to check out his story, called Meeting the Parents. It's a Military Science Fiction novel in the making, with action going in a few good directions, featuring a love relationship between an American military guy and his special interest is from a planet called Talmal, and their journeys with the intergalactic protocols, learning each other's cultures, interplanetary militaries, and of course, the humor that comes with all aspects of life. Chapters 1 - 24 are featured or highlighted here in my last blog. The characters are endearing, and you want to read about the adventures yet root for these two to succeed in their missions, both professionally and personally.
Chapter 25 - Family Meeting almost sounds tense, with the news that has to be brought to important people. Even with the best blessings, it’s still intense, though the conversation might not be with who you’re suspecting.
Chapter 26 - Lake Chat should be something romantic and private, yet the action might surprise you in some ways. Not to worry! No one gets hurt!
Chapter 27 - Pudgy Pies & Dinner has me thinking how fun it was to introduce S’Mores to my Japanese relatives several years ago, and seriously, it sounds even MORE fun to introduce these things to alien species from other dimensions!
Chapter 28 - Short Trips is action packed, and if you thought nosy neighbors are pesky, think about being tailed by some of these other guys, and hope they’re not some sort of intergalactic spies!
Saturday, April 8, 2017
April is Child Abuse Prevention Month 2
I cannot say enough, that as adults, we MUST speak up for our children.
It’s crazy how many people want to sit back and do nothing. Doing
nothing makes you a supporter of those who abuse their children. I’m
also wondering why some people have a problem signing this petition,
since ignoring the issue will also, not solve anything but to allow
child predators to keep raping our children. So, you don’t want to sign
because you don’t want to feel like a hypocrite? You running off with
your 20 year old boyfriend/girlfriend when you were 17 is not the same
thing, as a 30 year old targeting your 5 year old. The main difference
is, when you were 17, you chose to run off. A 5 year old does not have
this choice. Get it? So, if you’re saying that because you fell into
the “Romeo & Juliet” scenario makes it so that you don’t want to
sign, you’re stating that you don’t have a problem with your 40 year old
uncle (or aunt) can take your 12 year old child into the bedroom for
sexual purposes.
I’m also hearing from people that they “don’t agree with the stiffer sentencing” because some other country “does therapy & counseling” to reduce the rate of recidivism. I have never seen that study. At all. But, sorry. You. Can. Not. Cure. Classic. Pedophilia. Pedophiles are not mentally their own age, nor do they think there is anything wrong with full grown adults having sex with young children. They just know that society doesn’t agree with it. But, not all sex offenders who prey on children are pedophiles. Child molesters target children because they rationalize the abuse somehow. And no; it is untrue that most are those who were sexually abused as children. The fact is, only 29% of those who have been sexually abused as children go on to become child molesters or pedophiles. Because many take advantage of opportunities coming to them, it isn’t something that “just happens”.
Here is another FYI: All sexual violence is GROSSLY under-reported, so, the likelihood of a false report is extremely rare, especially if the victim is a child. With the widespread issue child sex abuse being so prominent, it makes it even MORE important to take a stand. The best way to prevent your children from being sexually assaulted or abused is to know your children and have a strong bond with them, which includes open communication. Child predators will target children with low self esteem, and understands that many are not close to their parents, which makes an easier target a child. Know your child. Understand your child. Have mutual respect between you and your child. When you know your child, the behavior changes are more obvious, and when they divulge, believe them. This will help your child move past the victimization. Never blame your children for the abuse, because frankly, no. They did NOT ask for it. Get to know the facts. Too many of these statistics are very frightening, and with the widespread problem, you probably know at least a few survivors of sex assaults. Just to give you an idea of how wide spread it is, think of 4 women you love, respect, and are close to.
Now, think of 6 men that you love, respect, and are close to. Depending on their ages, there is one on each list that has been sexually abused, or are at risk of it. There are various forms of child sex abuse, and child pornography is one of them. Do not minimize it by saying that the viewer is not abusing those children, because they are revictimizing those children every time the child porn is viewed. It is this very demand that keeps the makers of these images coming, and with each new wave of people, they will keep needing “new material” which is why human trafficking is such a big buck industry in and of itself.
The sad thing is, I’ve heard through the grapevines through various networks, that parishioners of the faith facility I used to attend, were told not to help me out in my cause, because whomever told them insisted that I am only seeking attention, and because of who told them, they felt that they didn’t have a choice but to follow orders. I wonder if whomever said anything has something to hide. Are they protecting pedophiles? Have they sexually assaulted minors? Why would anyone want to exert that kind of power against protecting children from sex abuse? I don’t know. That just means that I need your support more than ever.
Please, I ask you, to help me get #LikasLaw4Wisconsin trending, anywhere and everywhere online. You don’t need to live in Wisconsin to help make this push. We only need to get as many people in Wisconsin to sign this petition as possible, and let’s make it go viral. Please sign and share widely, this petition to ensure that those who sexually assault children do not get to walk.
Copy this - #LikasLaw4Wisconsin: Please sign & share widely http://www.thepetitionsite.com/367/880/690/likas-law-4-wisconsin-demand-stiffer-sentencing-4-child-sex-offenders/
Paste it in a post on all of your social media contacts on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, LinkedIn, or where ever you are. Or, please share the blog. Thank you in advance.
I’m also hearing from people that they “don’t agree with the stiffer sentencing” because some other country “does therapy & counseling” to reduce the rate of recidivism. I have never seen that study. At all. But, sorry. You. Can. Not. Cure. Classic. Pedophilia. Pedophiles are not mentally their own age, nor do they think there is anything wrong with full grown adults having sex with young children. They just know that society doesn’t agree with it. But, not all sex offenders who prey on children are pedophiles. Child molesters target children because they rationalize the abuse somehow. And no; it is untrue that most are those who were sexually abused as children. The fact is, only 29% of those who have been sexually abused as children go on to become child molesters or pedophiles. Because many take advantage of opportunities coming to them, it isn’t something that “just happens”.
Here is another FYI: All sexual violence is GROSSLY under-reported, so, the likelihood of a false report is extremely rare, especially if the victim is a child. With the widespread issue child sex abuse being so prominent, it makes it even MORE important to take a stand. The best way to prevent your children from being sexually assaulted or abused is to know your children and have a strong bond with them, which includes open communication. Child predators will target children with low self esteem, and understands that many are not close to their parents, which makes an easier target a child. Know your child. Understand your child. Have mutual respect between you and your child. When you know your child, the behavior changes are more obvious, and when they divulge, believe them. This will help your child move past the victimization. Never blame your children for the abuse, because frankly, no. They did NOT ask for it. Get to know the facts. Too many of these statistics are very frightening, and with the widespread problem, you probably know at least a few survivors of sex assaults. Just to give you an idea of how wide spread it is, think of 4 women you love, respect, and are close to.
Now, think of 6 men that you love, respect, and are close to. Depending on their ages, there is one on each list that has been sexually abused, or are at risk of it. There are various forms of child sex abuse, and child pornography is one of them. Do not minimize it by saying that the viewer is not abusing those children, because they are revictimizing those children every time the child porn is viewed. It is this very demand that keeps the makers of these images coming, and with each new wave of people, they will keep needing “new material” which is why human trafficking is such a big buck industry in and of itself.
The sad thing is, I’ve heard through the grapevines through various networks, that parishioners of the faith facility I used to attend, were told not to help me out in my cause, because whomever told them insisted that I am only seeking attention, and because of who told them, they felt that they didn’t have a choice but to follow orders. I wonder if whomever said anything has something to hide. Are they protecting pedophiles? Have they sexually assaulted minors? Why would anyone want to exert that kind of power against protecting children from sex abuse? I don’t know. That just means that I need your support more than ever.
Please, I ask you, to help me get #LikasLaw4Wisconsin trending, anywhere and everywhere online. You don’t need to live in Wisconsin to help make this push. We only need to get as many people in Wisconsin to sign this petition as possible, and let’s make it go viral. Please sign and share widely, this petition to ensure that those who sexually assault children do not get to walk.
Copy this - #LikasLaw4Wisconsin: Please sign & share widely http://www.thepetitionsite.com/367/880/690/likas-law-4-wisconsin-demand-stiffer-sentencing-4-child-sex-offenders/
Paste it in a post on all of your social media contacts on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, LinkedIn, or where ever you are. Or, please share the blog. Thank you in advance.
Friday, August 5, 2016
Elections, Candidates, and Why This Curious Mind Wants to Know...
As I've stated in the past, I have been active with the election and campaigning process for a very long time. It is fun for me to participate in this action, as well as gratifying to be an activated advocate. The biggest reason being that I just love the way our Founding Fathers have laid it out as a governmental system run BY the people FOR the people. To me, it represents the fact that ordinary, regular, everyday people like us get to speak to our elected officials, and voice our concerns, support, and even suggest what kind of law to be maid. I am most definitely dating myself, but, here is my hard work in action, and while it died in committee due to a study that didn't finish before the 2 year legislative session, I was proud of myself for being able to push it to the point of being heard in the Committee for Criminal Justice & Corrections.
Please click for the article: The Force Behind April's Law Wisconsin
In any case, I just love the Preamble for The Constitution:
The 1st 3 words speaks for it all... "We the people"... This reminds me of the song I Got the Power which rings true for every American citizen...
Okay, sorry, I digress... Thanks for bearing with me.
Because voting at every election is very important to me, because these are the events that shape the direction of where our country, state, county, and municipality will be going for the next 2-6 years, depending on how long each term is. I encourage everyone to vote at all elections, even small primaries, because the decisions at these primaries will decide who is on the ballot for the general election, which will pick the person to represent us in what ever political position they are running for. So, if anything, please pay attention to what is going on at home.
I, on the other hand, am interested in what goes on all over the country, and some election races are more important than others. Sometimes it's because of the issues. Other times it's the candidates. This election run, a specific candidate (out of my voting arena) grabbed my interest. You probably already know... The professional wrestler named #Rhyno, whose real name is Terrance Guido Gerin, is running for state representative in Dearborn, MI - part of the Greater Detroit area.
I have to admit, I'm really not a huge fan of supporting celebrities who run for office. When Arnold Schwarzenegger and Donald Trump ran for office, I had a few of those eye-roll moments where I think I showed up a group of teenagers being lectured by the neighborhood eccentric about behaving... I still can't believe Trump made it this far... There were so many other Republican candidates who would have been so much better qualified... Arnold was pretty unremarkable as the governor of California. It was cool to have a real live action figure in office, but, for me, there wasn't too much of interest after that.
On the other hand, when Clint Eastwood and Jesse "The Body" Ventura ran for their respective offices, I was curious, because both of them have their intellectual aspects that is extraordinary even in the everyday world without the fact that they are famous for their acting, and Jesse as an athlete as well. I especially appreciate the fact that Jesse Ventura ran under a 3rd party, and won. He ran as a part of the Independence Party, which was previously called the Reform Party. I found that very interesting, and very neat. (You see, as a tame rebel myself, I love when people "break the rules" and do it their way, and succeed; and it's actually LEGAL)!
Okay, okay, sorry... I'm famous for going on tangents... Back to Rhyno the Wrestler who is running for office... Anyway, what intrigues me is the fact that I would have NEVER pegged him as a candidate. So, when I heard the news, of course, I had to investigate. I read up on him in as many venues as possible, to ensure that I pick up even the smallest piece of information because he piqued my interest as to why he took such a huge leap from doing extreme wrestling to running for state assembly.
What I can gather from what I have read, and I think I'm mostly correct in my assessment of him, is while Mr. Terrance Gerin is a self admitted workaholic, I think he has this urge to want to be a people pleaser and wants to do it in the best ways as possible. Just like Madonna wants the whole planet to love her, Terrance Gerin wants everyone to be proud of him for doing a good job for them. It interests me further, that as the character, Rhyno, he is a tough force to be reckoned with, more like Mother Nature, while as the person, he comes across more like an eager Father Time, in my opinion. I say this because he wants to stay on the active roster for WWE as a wrestler, while busting his chops as an elected official.
The Michigan primary was on August 2, 2016, and Mr. Gerin won the Republican ticket against several other contestants. He is now gearing up for the general election in November, where we have one of the most heated presidential race to date in this country. I believe that since presidential elections always bring in the biggest crowd, he has a better chance of winning his seat because of this. I also think that after being elected, that you will see he will be the change this country needs, because of his dedication to his hometown and the fact that he loves being American, and being a hometown hero, who truly has his best interests in his community. I think he is going to be awesome, in the true sense of the word. I just wish all other candidates had his passion for our country and community as well.
To tie his passion and love for his work and for the elected position, his campaign slogan is, "Vote for Rhino; he will fight for you". Perfect.
Here is a telephone interview, courtesy of Syma Chowdhry, an Emmy Award winning reporter and fill-in anchor for Detroit News station WXYZ-TV: Rhyno Speaks to WXYZ-TV
He is running for Michigan's 15th district for State Representative.
To stay in the loop, please like his facebook page: Vote for Rhino
Or if you're on Twitter: Rhyno313
To support the campaign directly: Terrance Guido Gerin for State Rep
Or buy a T-Shirt as a souvenir and support the campaign at the same time: Pro Wrestling Tees
Please click for the article: The Force Behind April's Law Wisconsin
In any case, I just love the Preamble for The Constitution:
The 1st 3 words speaks for it all... "We the people"... This reminds me of the song I Got the Power which rings true for every American citizen...
Okay, sorry, I digress... Thanks for bearing with me.
Because voting at every election is very important to me, because these are the events that shape the direction of where our country, state, county, and municipality will be going for the next 2-6 years, depending on how long each term is. I encourage everyone to vote at all elections, even small primaries, because the decisions at these primaries will decide who is on the ballot for the general election, which will pick the person to represent us in what ever political position they are running for. So, if anything, please pay attention to what is going on at home.
I, on the other hand, am interested in what goes on all over the country, and some election races are more important than others. Sometimes it's because of the issues. Other times it's the candidates. This election run, a specific candidate (out of my voting arena) grabbed my interest. You probably already know... The professional wrestler named #Rhyno, whose real name is Terrance Guido Gerin, is running for state representative in Dearborn, MI - part of the Greater Detroit area.
I have to admit, I'm really not a huge fan of supporting celebrities who run for office. When Arnold Schwarzenegger and Donald Trump ran for office, I had a few of those eye-roll moments where I think I showed up a group of teenagers being lectured by the neighborhood eccentric about behaving... I still can't believe Trump made it this far... There were so many other Republican candidates who would have been so much better qualified... Arnold was pretty unremarkable as the governor of California. It was cool to have a real live action figure in office, but, for me, there wasn't too much of interest after that.
On the other hand, when Clint Eastwood and Jesse "The Body" Ventura ran for their respective offices, I was curious, because both of them have their intellectual aspects that is extraordinary even in the everyday world without the fact that they are famous for their acting, and Jesse as an athlete as well. I especially appreciate the fact that Jesse Ventura ran under a 3rd party, and won. He ran as a part of the Independence Party, which was previously called the Reform Party. I found that very interesting, and very neat. (You see, as a tame rebel myself, I love when people "break the rules" and do it their way, and succeed; and it's actually LEGAL)!
Okay, okay, sorry... I'm famous for going on tangents... Back to Rhyno the Wrestler who is running for office... Anyway, what intrigues me is the fact that I would have NEVER pegged him as a candidate. So, when I heard the news, of course, I had to investigate. I read up on him in as many venues as possible, to ensure that I pick up even the smallest piece of information because he piqued my interest as to why he took such a huge leap from doing extreme wrestling to running for state assembly.
What I can gather from what I have read, and I think I'm mostly correct in my assessment of him, is while Mr. Terrance Gerin is a self admitted workaholic, I think he has this urge to want to be a people pleaser and wants to do it in the best ways as possible. Just like Madonna wants the whole planet to love her, Terrance Gerin wants everyone to be proud of him for doing a good job for them. It interests me further, that as the character, Rhyno, he is a tough force to be reckoned with, more like Mother Nature, while as the person, he comes across more like an eager Father Time, in my opinion. I say this because he wants to stay on the active roster for WWE as a wrestler, while busting his chops as an elected official.
The Michigan primary was on August 2, 2016, and Mr. Gerin won the Republican ticket against several other contestants. He is now gearing up for the general election in November, where we have one of the most heated presidential race to date in this country. I believe that since presidential elections always bring in the biggest crowd, he has a better chance of winning his seat because of this. I also think that after being elected, that you will see he will be the change this country needs, because of his dedication to his hometown and the fact that he loves being American, and being a hometown hero, who truly has his best interests in his community. I think he is going to be awesome, in the true sense of the word. I just wish all other candidates had his passion for our country and community as well.
To tie his passion and love for his work and for the elected position, his campaign slogan is, "Vote for Rhino; he will fight for you". Perfect.
Here is a telephone interview, courtesy of Syma Chowdhry, an Emmy Award winning reporter and fill-in anchor for Detroit News station WXYZ-TV: Rhyno Speaks to WXYZ-TV
He is running for Michigan's 15th district for State Representative.
To stay in the loop, please like his facebook page: Vote for Rhino
Or if you're on Twitter: Rhyno313
To support the campaign directly: Terrance Guido Gerin for State Rep
Or buy a T-Shirt as a souvenir and support the campaign at the same time: Pro Wrestling Tees
Thursday, July 21, 2016
A Rant About Ethnic Food Recipe: Can We Keep the Flavor Yet Make It Healthier?
Hello, my loyal readers, I'm hoping to help everyone be able to enjoy good foods, especially if your doctor told you that you had to lose weight, and sends you to a dietician or nutritionist. Mind you, I am all about trying to eat healthy, but at the same time, also to allow us to enjoy our favorite foods, especially our ethnic foods. Don't forget, I do not have a kitchen, I have a science lab where I create tasty food that is also nutritiously balanced.
Granted, these days, you can get some really good tips and a list of stuff you try to still eat a healthier version of things, such as whole grain pasta and ultra grain tortillas. But, my biggest complaint about all of these tips, is if you eat the "typical" middle American types of food, you're in luck, these lists, suggestions, tips, etc are like hitting the jackpot. But.... What if you are from a different ethnic background, or a multi-ethnic background? Here is what many "food experts" say, and I take this from a multitude of Certified Nutritionists, Registered Dieticians, Nurse Diabetic Educators, and online sources such as Mayo Clinic, is that the highest rate of obesity related diabetes occur in our Latino/Hispanic, Asian American, and African American ethnic groups... Mostly because in many of these cuisines, they are either carb heavy and/or high in fat.
Why does this happen? When talking Mexican food, the carbohydrates come from the tortillas (flour is a worse offender than the corn), Spanish rice, and the refried beans (legumes are a starchy protein) which are fried in bacon fat or some other form of lard or saturated fat. In many Asian restaurants, there is a high amount of sugar in the sauces, and of course, there is always rice, some even breaded and deep fried... Soul Food consists of BBQ'd ribs (fatty), fried chicken, collard greens cooked with pork hocks, and the barbecue sauces are often high in sugar or corn syrup as well. All of these foods are delicious, but, in their usual format, not very healthy.
Unfortunately, when we ask our "experts", they are usually of the American country cooking types, who have NO idea how to do these ethnic foods correctly, nor how to honestly use better swaps to make it better. For example, I had one nutritionist, who just thought she was all that and a cute bag of chips, too, tell me that to make Spanish rice, to just use a tablespoon of salsa with the rice. So I asked her how she would prepare that... I think she said something like making rice on the stove top, with plain water, and when you put it on your plate, to put the salsa on... So I mentioned that I don't want to use cold salsa or room temp either, because it takes away from having hot rice, and getting a good blend of flavor to make it still feel authentic when doing it that way. She asks me how the salsa can be cold. Um. I buy a jar of salsa... Use it with tacos... The remainder of the salsa goes into the fridge because it's opened... So, a few days later, I want Spanish rice, and so I take the open one out of the fridge... Because it's been in there, it's refrigerated, so the salsa is cold, and you said to use 1 TBS on the rice... So she says to just put it into the sauce pot... I tell her I use a rice cooker, and I want the measurements, because 1 TBS is not going to be enough for the amount of rice, she says just to put as much as I want... *sigh* so I ask her, if she has any suggestions, and she snaps at me about how she just gave me one, and I'm being difficult...
Okay, but, for those of us whose cultural foods which utilize rice or cous cous, knows that having these whole grains means that it has to be the right texture... As in, if you use 1.5 cups of water to 1 cup of rice, you don't want to use the whole 1.5 cups of water AND a 1/2 jar of salsa to cook that rice, unless we want soggy food... No, we do NOT want soggy rice, it is the medium as to which the rest of the meal revolves around, especially for someone like me, who was born and raised in Tokyo for 8 years, and the word "gohan" (Think the vowels of Gold Bond - go like the go in gold, han rhymes with bon in bond) means rice, but it also is used to mean "meal". Imperfect rice is just NOT acceptable. At all. I also think that it is completely silly of these people that they think everyone should make the foods so, well, WHITE! When you want Mexican food, you want Mexican food. You don't want Taco Bell. You don't necessarily even want Tex-Mex. You want bonafied, authentic, real deal Mexican food that slaps your taste buds the only way these flavorful foods can. But, if you need to lose weight, or need to lower cholesterol, you know you need to make these adjustments for your own sake, so you can keep taking care of family members.
What I am attempting to do, is to try to take at least a couple of these recipes, and keep the honest to goodness flavors in there, while making it better for your health, so you can feel good about serving your favorite people the foods they love while making the move toward being a stronger people. I say this, because, if you have to use exercise to offset your eating habits, there is something wrong with your eating habits. It's a good balance of eating well, loving what you eat, and exercising to take you that extra mile toward a holistic healthy of mind, body and soul.
So, here it is... These are not perfected, but, these are at least a slight improvement of family favorites to serve.
Sesame Chicken:
Marinade:
2 TBS Soy Sauce
1 TBS Sake - dry
2 tsp Sesame Oil
3/4 tsp Mrs. Dash
1 tsp fresh ginger juice
Mix well.
1 lb boneless/skinless chicken breast, in 1" cubes
Marinade at least 1/2 hour (longer is okay)
10 minutes before you're going to cook, add the white of an uncooked egg
5 - 6 TBS of Arrow Root flour or Water Chestnut starch
Deep fry in hot peanut oil. Drip dry 1st on cooling rack, then paper towel lined baking sheets.
Serve with steamed rice and a spinach salad
Tacos:
1 lb 90% lean ground beef
1 - 15oz can of vegetarian refried beans
1 medium onion, minced
2 jalapeno peppers, minced
1 TBS cumin (to taste)
3 TBS cilantro (to taste)
Lime juice - varies, to taste/cookware
Red pepper flakes to taste
Brown ground beef with the onion
Add the peppers/spices
When meat is almost all done, add refried beans*
As the mixture becomes tacky and difficult to handle, use lime juice to de-glaze pan to add & blend flavors together
I do not use salt, because the can of beans has enough sodium, plus using other spices lessens the need for salt.
*I do not drain the 90%, because SOME fat need to be able to absorb into the beans, and because the grease will be minimal, it is better for you than rendered bacon fat.
Don't forget to top it with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and your favorite garden salsa.
Rice Pilaf:
18 oz risotto or Jasmine rice
26 oz low sodium/99% fat free chicken broth
1 small onion, minced
parsley flakes to taste
Mix well, steam in rice cooker
In a skillet, heat olive oil, saute to get that fried/crusty flavor
(Yes, I do it in reverse order)
If you have any requests for your favorite foods, let me know, I'll see if I can find a way to polish it up, and then give it back to you for you to try it out, and let me know if it passes your test.
Granted, these days, you can get some really good tips and a list of stuff you try to still eat a healthier version of things, such as whole grain pasta and ultra grain tortillas. But, my biggest complaint about all of these tips, is if you eat the "typical" middle American types of food, you're in luck, these lists, suggestions, tips, etc are like hitting the jackpot. But.... What if you are from a different ethnic background, or a multi-ethnic background? Here is what many "food experts" say, and I take this from a multitude of Certified Nutritionists, Registered Dieticians, Nurse Diabetic Educators, and online sources such as Mayo Clinic, is that the highest rate of obesity related diabetes occur in our Latino/Hispanic, Asian American, and African American ethnic groups... Mostly because in many of these cuisines, they are either carb heavy and/or high in fat.
Why does this happen? When talking Mexican food, the carbohydrates come from the tortillas (flour is a worse offender than the corn), Spanish rice, and the refried beans (legumes are a starchy protein) which are fried in bacon fat or some other form of lard or saturated fat. In many Asian restaurants, there is a high amount of sugar in the sauces, and of course, there is always rice, some even breaded and deep fried... Soul Food consists of BBQ'd ribs (fatty), fried chicken, collard greens cooked with pork hocks, and the barbecue sauces are often high in sugar or corn syrup as well. All of these foods are delicious, but, in their usual format, not very healthy.
Unfortunately, when we ask our "experts", they are usually of the American country cooking types, who have NO idea how to do these ethnic foods correctly, nor how to honestly use better swaps to make it better. For example, I had one nutritionist, who just thought she was all that and a cute bag of chips, too, tell me that to make Spanish rice, to just use a tablespoon of salsa with the rice. So I asked her how she would prepare that... I think she said something like making rice on the stove top, with plain water, and when you put it on your plate, to put the salsa on... So I mentioned that I don't want to use cold salsa or room temp either, because it takes away from having hot rice, and getting a good blend of flavor to make it still feel authentic when doing it that way. She asks me how the salsa can be cold. Um. I buy a jar of salsa... Use it with tacos... The remainder of the salsa goes into the fridge because it's opened... So, a few days later, I want Spanish rice, and so I take the open one out of the fridge... Because it's been in there, it's refrigerated, so the salsa is cold, and you said to use 1 TBS on the rice... So she says to just put it into the sauce pot... I tell her I use a rice cooker, and I want the measurements, because 1 TBS is not going to be enough for the amount of rice, she says just to put as much as I want... *sigh* so I ask her, if she has any suggestions, and she snaps at me about how she just gave me one, and I'm being difficult...
Okay, but, for those of us whose cultural foods which utilize rice or cous cous, knows that having these whole grains means that it has to be the right texture... As in, if you use 1.5 cups of water to 1 cup of rice, you don't want to use the whole 1.5 cups of water AND a 1/2 jar of salsa to cook that rice, unless we want soggy food... No, we do NOT want soggy rice, it is the medium as to which the rest of the meal revolves around, especially for someone like me, who was born and raised in Tokyo for 8 years, and the word "gohan" (Think the vowels of Gold Bond - go like the go in gold, han rhymes with bon in bond) means rice, but it also is used to mean "meal". Imperfect rice is just NOT acceptable. At all. I also think that it is completely silly of these people that they think everyone should make the foods so, well, WHITE! When you want Mexican food, you want Mexican food. You don't want Taco Bell. You don't necessarily even want Tex-Mex. You want bonafied, authentic, real deal Mexican food that slaps your taste buds the only way these flavorful foods can. But, if you need to lose weight, or need to lower cholesterol, you know you need to make these adjustments for your own sake, so you can keep taking care of family members.
What I am attempting to do, is to try to take at least a couple of these recipes, and keep the honest to goodness flavors in there, while making it better for your health, so you can feel good about serving your favorite people the foods they love while making the move toward being a stronger people. I say this, because, if you have to use exercise to offset your eating habits, there is something wrong with your eating habits. It's a good balance of eating well, loving what you eat, and exercising to take you that extra mile toward a holistic healthy of mind, body and soul.
So, here it is... These are not perfected, but, these are at least a slight improvement of family favorites to serve.
Sesame Chicken:
Marinade:
2 TBS Soy Sauce
1 TBS Sake - dry
2 tsp Sesame Oil
3/4 tsp Mrs. Dash
1 tsp fresh ginger juice
Mix well.
1 lb boneless/skinless chicken breast, in 1" cubes
Marinade at least 1/2 hour (longer is okay)
10 minutes before you're going to cook, add the white of an uncooked egg
5 - 6 TBS of Arrow Root flour or Water Chestnut starch
Deep fry in hot peanut oil. Drip dry 1st on cooling rack, then paper towel lined baking sheets.
Serve with steamed rice and a spinach salad
Tacos:
1 lb 90% lean ground beef
1 - 15oz can of vegetarian refried beans
1 medium onion, minced
2 jalapeno peppers, minced
1 TBS cumin (to taste)
3 TBS cilantro (to taste)
Lime juice - varies, to taste/cookware
Red pepper flakes to taste
Brown ground beef with the onion
Add the peppers/spices
When meat is almost all done, add refried beans*
As the mixture becomes tacky and difficult to handle, use lime juice to de-glaze pan to add & blend flavors together
I do not use salt, because the can of beans has enough sodium, plus using other spices lessens the need for salt.
*I do not drain the 90%, because SOME fat need to be able to absorb into the beans, and because the grease will be minimal, it is better for you than rendered bacon fat.
Don't forget to top it with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and your favorite garden salsa.
Rice Pilaf:
18 oz risotto or Jasmine rice
26 oz low sodium/99% fat free chicken broth
1 small onion, minced
parsley flakes to taste
Mix well, steam in rice cooker
In a skillet, heat olive oil, saute to get that fried/crusty flavor
(Yes, I do it in reverse order)
If you have any requests for your favorite foods, let me know, I'll see if I can find a way to polish it up, and then give it back to you for you to try it out, and let me know if it passes your test.
Tuesday, June 7, 2016
Who is this Terrance Guido Gerin?
Yes, this is a real person. Terrance Guido Gerin is a candidate for Dearborn, MI (it's in the Greater Detroit area) 15th district for state representative. People may know him better as Rhyno, the professional wrestler who has wrestled in WWE, TNA, ECW, and now has his own Insane Wrestling company in Detroit, Michigan. So, while yes, he has done some crazy stunts like climb 50' ladders, he is also passionate about serving his community in which he grew up in.
Here are some links to touch on his platform, which includes investing in education, infrastructure, and bringing public pools back to his beloved city.
http://slam.canoe.com/Slam/Wrestling/2015/11/04/22569492.html
http://www.mlive.com/news/index.ssf/2016/03/wwe_man_beast_rhyno_to_run_for.html
In his own words, he talks about his next phase in his road to getting elected to office.
Here are some links to touch on his platform, which includes investing in education, infrastructure, and bringing public pools back to his beloved city.
http://slam.canoe.com/Slam/Wrestling/2015/11/04/22569492.html
http://www.mlive.com/news/index.ssf/2016/03/wwe_man_beast_rhyno_to_run_for.html
In his own words, he talks about his next phase in his road to getting elected to office.
Operation
Elect Rhino is in its second stage.
I need to raise $4,000 for yard
signs and $5,000 for mailing literature.
Help me by going to www.voteforrhino.com to donate.
By donating you become part of this campaign and part of something special.
Now let's win this thing!
While Mr. Gerin is running as a republican, his stances are very centrist, which will be extremely helpful in uniting the political ends. I agree with him on most of his platform, and I sincerely hope he wins, just because I think he will be great. Our country need more people like him, in every level of politics. Local, County, State, and Federal. If everyone who took office loved their district as much as #Rhyno does his, we would be the greatest country by far.
I know not everyone can donate, but, you can still help out by sharing this information everywhere. Please? You will make me, your favorite pain in the tuches a very happy person with your help. Thank you in advance, people!
For more news, please like him on facebook:
Sunday, March 20, 2016
Lika's Kitchen Lab: Italian Egg Rolls
For anyone new to my blog, yes, I do blog about various things, but there are two categories you'll see most, maybe three. My passions in life to blog about:
1) Child Advocacy - There is HUGE difference between disciplining your children and abusing them. A swat on the hand or back side to get their attention or to let them know the seriousness of the action is one thing. But to lock them into closets for literally hours, just to beat them for messing themselves; or to repeatedly hit, kick, punch, throw, etc. for basic offenses is overkill. Sex abuse as well as psychological/emotional abuse are two of the most hurtful types of abuse, because you're violating their inner most person to the core. Gross neglect can lead to nutrition and other physical problems due to lack of hygiene and skin conditions.
2) Food, Glorious Food - Different things call for the gathering of our friends and family, and we all celebrate (or mourn) with food, to make any situation a festivity. I love to cook. People love to eat. I love to feed people. It's a perfect situation. Which leads me to say unto you, I play with my food. No, it's not one of those gross things. My kitchen is a lab, to see what new things can be invented to make traditional favorites into something new and different, or, maybe it's an ethnic thing that gets made healthier (or sometimes worse but tastier) eats, while still preserving the flavors of what is considered comfort foods, which we all have those unique flavors that we are used to eating.
3) I am politically activated. I know, duh, right? Most people who know me know that already. And while yes, many of my views and stances are liberal, but, I do break form and take a more conservative stance on some issues, while not taking one due to the fact that I do not have the knowledge necessary to say something about it. The crazy thing about how I got started... I came to the fine city of Racine, WI as an 8 year old in 1977. The next year, I started helping with the political campaigns with my aunt, who is also my God-Mother. I didn't learn much about the whole entire political system and how government worked, yet, but, thought it was pretty neat, that, as a citizen, even if not of voting age, could be as involved as much as I was...
Then, there was my American Government class... Mr. Doug Lockrem taught that in high school... Learning and reciting the Preamble of the Constitution was what got me hooked... Here it is:
"We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defence, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America."
Signed in convention September 17, 1787. Ratified June 21, 1788
The first three words is what says it all. "We the People..." So, from the murky waters of the swamps, through the upper crust of the perfect apple Americana, we are all able to take part in this process. Maybe I'm just weird... But, I use this as my inspiration to advocate for abused children, and to feed those who are hungry.
Yes, I know, I know.... I am being a tease. You're here about the Italian egg rolls... NOT to hear about why or how I came to be who I am... Why I do things, and what drives you crazy with my teasers before I get to the point... Okay, okay, you know I love you all, right? Why do I love you so much? Because I do, and I want to make you happy, so you can pay it forward. So, finally, yes. Here you go.
Italian Egg Rolls:
2# of 90% or leaner ground beef, pork, or poultry* **
2 raw large eggs**
2/3 - 1 cup of your favorite dry cheese - Parmesan, Romano, Asiago, or any combo, depending on how stiff you want your balls.
1/4 - 1/3 cup garlic powder
2/3 - 3/4 cup parsley
2-3 TBS Basil
3-4 TBS Oregano
1 tsp salt
1/4 tsp pepper (or to taste)
Mix all ingredients together, and place in refrigerator while you prepare the sauce.
Lika's pasta sauce (batched specifically for these eggrolls):
3 heaping TBS of minced garlic
1 medium yellow onion, minced
1 bell pepper, minced
8 oz fresh mushrooms (No shiitake, flavor clash), minced
8oz fresh spinach, chopped
18 oz tomato paste
5TBS basil
6-7TBS oregano
Red pepper flakes to taste.
In a large kettle, saute the garlic and onion until aromatic.
Add remaining minced/chopped veggies, and saute until spinach leaves start wilting a little bit.
Put in 18 oz tomato paste, and reconstitute with 3 cans worth of cold water.
Turn up heat. Add spices. Mix well. When it comes to a boil, turn heat down to simmer at least 90 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Turn on your deep fryer, using peanut or canola oil.
Bring out meat mix and 15-20 egg roll wraps.
Place wrap so it looks like a diamond in front of you.
About 1/3 way in, put about 3oz meat mix (going across).
Dip finger in a water dish, wet a dot in your corner, wet sides from the opposite corner going out toward the outer corners.
Roll up, place on baking sheet.
Deep fat fry, let them drip dry on rack, place on baking sheet with paper towel, place sheet in oven on warm, until ready to serve within 45 minutes.
Plate the Italian egg rolls onto plate, serve with the sauce on top or in a small dish on the side. Enjoy!
* For a vegetarian twist, use two (3) - eight (8)oz packages of cream cheese, softened (Ricotta works, too).
1+1/2 cups dry grated cheese
1/2 cup fresh mozzarella, shredded
1/4 cup garlic powder
3/4 cup parsley
(Yes, use the 2 eggs), mix well, stuff into egg roll wraps, and savor.
** For a vegan twist, use 1# of Tempeh and 1# portobello mushrooms, processed through your food processor.
In place of the cheese, use raw/plain oatmeal, coarsely ground.
** In place of eggs, use 2-3TBS ground flax seeds with 3TBS water for one egg, and a plain pumpkin or squash puree for the other egg.
1) Child Advocacy - There is HUGE difference between disciplining your children and abusing them. A swat on the hand or back side to get their attention or to let them know the seriousness of the action is one thing. But to lock them into closets for literally hours, just to beat them for messing themselves; or to repeatedly hit, kick, punch, throw, etc. for basic offenses is overkill. Sex abuse as well as psychological/emotional abuse are two of the most hurtful types of abuse, because you're violating their inner most person to the core. Gross neglect can lead to nutrition and other physical problems due to lack of hygiene and skin conditions.
2) Food, Glorious Food - Different things call for the gathering of our friends and family, and we all celebrate (or mourn) with food, to make any situation a festivity. I love to cook. People love to eat. I love to feed people. It's a perfect situation. Which leads me to say unto you, I play with my food. No, it's not one of those gross things. My kitchen is a lab, to see what new things can be invented to make traditional favorites into something new and different, or, maybe it's an ethnic thing that gets made healthier (or sometimes worse but tastier) eats, while still preserving the flavors of what is considered comfort foods, which we all have those unique flavors that we are used to eating.
3) I am politically activated. I know, duh, right? Most people who know me know that already. And while yes, many of my views and stances are liberal, but, I do break form and take a more conservative stance on some issues, while not taking one due to the fact that I do not have the knowledge necessary to say something about it. The crazy thing about how I got started... I came to the fine city of Racine, WI as an 8 year old in 1977. The next year, I started helping with the political campaigns with my aunt, who is also my God-Mother. I didn't learn much about the whole entire political system and how government worked, yet, but, thought it was pretty neat, that, as a citizen, even if not of voting age, could be as involved as much as I was...
Then, there was my American Government class... Mr. Doug Lockrem taught that in high school... Learning and reciting the Preamble of the Constitution was what got me hooked... Here it is:
"We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defence, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America."
Signed in convention September 17, 1787. Ratified June 21, 1788
The first three words is what says it all. "We the People..." So, from the murky waters of the swamps, through the upper crust of the perfect apple Americana, we are all able to take part in this process. Maybe I'm just weird... But, I use this as my inspiration to advocate for abused children, and to feed those who are hungry.
Yes, I know, I know.... I am being a tease. You're here about the Italian egg rolls... NOT to hear about why or how I came to be who I am... Why I do things, and what drives you crazy with my teasers before I get to the point... Okay, okay, you know I love you all, right? Why do I love you so much? Because I do, and I want to make you happy, so you can pay it forward. So, finally, yes. Here you go.
Italian Egg Rolls:
2# of 90% or leaner ground beef, pork, or poultry* **
2 raw large eggs**
2/3 - 1 cup of your favorite dry cheese - Parmesan, Romano, Asiago, or any combo, depending on how stiff you want your balls.
1/4 - 1/3 cup garlic powder
2/3 - 3/4 cup parsley
2-3 TBS Basil
3-4 TBS Oregano
1 tsp salt
1/4 tsp pepper (or to taste)
Mix all ingredients together, and place in refrigerator while you prepare the sauce.
Lika's pasta sauce (batched specifically for these eggrolls):
3 heaping TBS of minced garlic
1 medium yellow onion, minced
1 bell pepper, minced
8 oz fresh mushrooms (No shiitake, flavor clash), minced
8oz fresh spinach, chopped
18 oz tomato paste
5TBS basil
6-7TBS oregano
Red pepper flakes to taste.
In a large kettle, saute the garlic and onion until aromatic.
Add remaining minced/chopped veggies, and saute until spinach leaves start wilting a little bit.
Put in 18 oz tomato paste, and reconstitute with 3 cans worth of cold water.
Turn up heat. Add spices. Mix well. When it comes to a boil, turn heat down to simmer at least 90 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Turn on your deep fryer, using peanut or canola oil.
Bring out meat mix and 15-20 egg roll wraps.
Place wrap so it looks like a diamond in front of you.
About 1/3 way in, put about 3oz meat mix (going across).
Dip finger in a water dish, wet a dot in your corner, wet sides from the opposite corner going out toward the outer corners.
Roll up, place on baking sheet.
Deep fat fry, let them drip dry on rack, place on baking sheet with paper towel, place sheet in oven on warm, until ready to serve within 45 minutes.
Plate the Italian egg rolls onto plate, serve with the sauce on top or in a small dish on the side. Enjoy!
* For a vegetarian twist, use two (3) - eight (8)oz packages of cream cheese, softened (Ricotta works, too).
1+1/2 cups dry grated cheese
1/2 cup fresh mozzarella, shredded
1/4 cup garlic powder
3/4 cup parsley
(Yes, use the 2 eggs), mix well, stuff into egg roll wraps, and savor.
** For a vegan twist, use 1# of Tempeh and 1# portobello mushrooms, processed through your food processor.
In place of the cheese, use raw/plain oatmeal, coarsely ground.
** In place of eggs, use 2-3TBS ground flax seeds with 3TBS water for one egg, and a plain pumpkin or squash puree for the other egg.
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