The National Alliance for Media Arts and Culture’s 2012 Conference is being held in the Twin Cities from September 6th – 8th. I have been selected as an official “Documenter” for the conference! I will be interviewing participants and posting the discussions on the NAMAC website: http://namac.org/2012-conference-blog I am not certain of the date of my first posting, but just watch their site for my contributions. Thus, I’ll be taking a brief hiatus from my personal blog to volunteer in this capacity.
As you know, I am both a consumer and creator of the ubiquitous “media.” I read a lot, watch a lot, and think too much. I really enjoy writing my observations and self-publishing in this online virtual world of the Blog-o-sphere. Haven’t made a dime, but that is okay. I’m just honored that people actually read my odd and arcane views.
Blogging has provided some interesting opportunities. I really enjoy promoting artists, writers, and local businesses. It’s been delightful meeting folks and making new friends. As an adult, it can be a challenge to do the precious metal thing – “make new friends but keep the old, one is silver and the other gold.” All positive relationships are dear to me.
As for NAMAC qualifications, I was raised in a creative family. My parents had an arts-n-crafts business and we displayed their creations at county fairs and art shows throughout southern Minnesota. I’ve always puttered with drawing, painting, and montages. As a teenager, I participated in the 4-H Arts-In show (featured at the Minnesota State Fair). I was a Studio Arts major for a while in college before I switched over to Communications. I have worked at both the Guthrie Theater and Walker Art Center.
Once I learned how to read, a challenge due to my mild dyslexia, I have been a consumer of words. My favorite distraction is to fall into a book. A good story is the best stress reliever. I love to write but spelling is a weakness so I am forever grateful to the inventor of spell-check. I was the news editor of my high school paper and dreamt of becoming a professional journalist. However, the 1980s was still a very male-dominated era and I didn’t want to have to play games to be permitted to write an article. Sadly, I switched to another major but twenty-some years later I have returned to my first avocation, writing. Middle-aged crisis, No, because I didn’t feel stressed about it and I am only 40-something. I just wanted to fulfill this yearning since my youth. I guess it was a positive impulse because I’ve been very pleased with the results.
Please check the NAMAC website for my postings. I’ll return to my personal blog as soon as I find something interesting to say… probably September 9th.
See Ya at the NAMAC Conference!
© 2012 Ima B. Musing
Friday, August 31, 2012
Wednesday, August 29, 2012
CASH MOB ST PAUL MN EVENT ANNOUNCEMENT
Proclaiming our third Cash Mob St Paul MN (CMSPM) gathering!! Help support a local business by spending at least $20 cash at this event (okay to spend less).
CMSPM Event #3
Date: Saturday, September 22nd
Time: 11am – Business visit AND Noon – Restaurant for lunch (okay to arrive late or participate in only one segment of the event)
Locations: TO BE ANNOUNCED a day or two before the event, please check back for details. Somewhere along the St. Paul end of the Green Line, light rail Central Corridor.
We are seeking nominations for our September event; business and restaurant must be within one block of each other AND physically located on the Green Line - Central Corridor construction zone in St. Paul. Please post the establishment’s name (with website, if possible) on our Facebook page www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Cash-Mob-St-Paul-MN/297499490345966 before noon on Sept 8th. (Sorry, no chain stores or franchises qualify.)
The cash mob rules are simple:
1. Spend $20 cash (more or less but cash does speed up the check out process),
2. Chat with three people that you don’t know but please bring along a friend or two, and
3. Enjoy yourself! We want this to be a fun experience for everyone.
On the CMSPM Facebook (FB) page:
* Please RSVP with “Going” if you can make it; invite your FB Friends; and SHARE THIS INVITATION WITH OTHERS via FB by posting on your personal page. Help spread the word to non-FB folks (see next paragraph for details).
* If you can’t attend, you can temporarily indicate a “Maybe” to invite your FB friends and then decline at a later date.
* Please decline before the event if you have to cancel.
* “Like” our FB community page at “Cash Mob St Paul MN” to receive notification of future events and invite your FB Friends to join us, too!
We welcome other methods of advertising our efforts, if you would like to co-host or publicize this event in another way, such as MeetUp or another FB group. Please send a message via our FB page and keep us informed as to the numbers of people attending. The more the merrier!
Optional: Wear something green to the occasion to indicate that you are a member of the Cash Mob…just an idea, not a requirement.
Thank you ever so much!
PS If you can’t join us for this happening, please patronize the business another time and let them know that you heard about their entrepreneurial efforts from Cash Mob St Paul MN.
Goodie Mob Shoes!
www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Cash-Mob-St-Paul-MN/297499490345966
© 2012 Ima B. Musing
CMSPM Event #3
Date: Saturday, September 22nd
Time: 11am – Business visit AND Noon – Restaurant for lunch (okay to arrive late or participate in only one segment of the event)
Locations: TO BE ANNOUNCED a day or two before the event, please check back for details. Somewhere along the St. Paul end of the Green Line, light rail Central Corridor.
We are seeking nominations for our September event; business and restaurant must be within one block of each other AND physically located on the Green Line - Central Corridor construction zone in St. Paul. Please post the establishment’s name (with website, if possible) on our Facebook page www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Cash-Mob-St-Paul-MN/297499490345966 before noon on Sept 8th. (Sorry, no chain stores or franchises qualify.)
The cash mob rules are simple:
1. Spend $20 cash (more or less but cash does speed up the check out process),
2. Chat with three people that you don’t know but please bring along a friend or two, and
3. Enjoy yourself! We want this to be a fun experience for everyone.
On the CMSPM Facebook (FB) page:
* Please RSVP with “Going” if you can make it; invite your FB Friends; and SHARE THIS INVITATION WITH OTHERS via FB by posting on your personal page. Help spread the word to non-FB folks (see next paragraph for details).
* If you can’t attend, you can temporarily indicate a “Maybe” to invite your FB friends and then decline at a later date.
* Please decline before the event if you have to cancel.
* “Like” our FB community page at “Cash Mob St Paul MN” to receive notification of future events and invite your FB Friends to join us, too!
Optional: Wear something green to the occasion to indicate that you are a member of the Cash Mob…just an idea, not a requirement.
Thank you ever so much!
PS If you can’t join us for this happening, please patronize the business another time and let them know that you heard about their entrepreneurial efforts from Cash Mob St Paul MN.
Goodie Mob Shoes!
www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Cash-Mob-St-Paul-MN/297499490345966
© 2012 Ima B. Musing
Sunday, August 26, 2012
POLITICAL KUDZU
“You’re jumping from the frying pan and into the fire,” a friend warned. It was a once in a lifetime opportunity; I knew that the Republican National Convention (RNC) caravan wouldn’t be returning to the Twin Cities in my lifetime. I had carpe diem and volunteer. Yes, I assisted with the 2008 RNC. I thought it would be good to observe from within rather than being told or shown what to think from the perspectives of others.
Originally, I was going to be a background helper. I was planning to assist with behind the scenes stuff. A few days before the event began I received call from a RNC staff member. They wanted me for a special assignment because I had security clearance (I’d met President G.W. Bush the year before due to the 35W Bridge Collapse and didn’t punch him). I checked with my employer and used vacation time. I cancelled my support-work volunteering shifts and leapt into the center of the action.
Monday was Labor Day and the convention was on hiatus due to a hurricane striking Louisiana (Mmm, wrath of a higher power?) There was a whirlwind of gossip swirling around Bristol Palin’s teenage pregnancy. Bristol had the proverbial “baby bump” so there was no way that they could have disguised the expecting life form. I had the opportunity to just sit and watch. I met most of the people who were highlighted on television. Professional politicians have to be cordial; it’s a part of their charm.
Tuesday and Wednesday were busier. We assisted with events but spent a lot of time waiting. I was dissatisfied in how the RNC treated its volunteers. Most of the time we were served cheap food and no beverages. They didn’t invite us to any event outside of our shift or even keep us informed as to our schedule. We received very little training as to what we were to do or not do besides not drinking alcohol during our shift. They really could have used a professional Manager of Volunteer Resources to tend to the inner-ring of unpaid staff (us).
Thursday, endorsement day, was the most exciting. Lots of energy and action. Stress level was high because some members of the media were aggressively seeking stories and a photo of Bristol. Security was impressive. I will not provide details about this but suffice it to say that only a fool would attack a national convention. They were concerned about anarchists and people who meant us harm. I experienced a few minutes of panic when there was a riot on a bridge in St. Paul. I didn’t want to get hurt or die while volunteering.
We ventured to the St. Paul Rivercentre for the Convention and were permitted to go inside. Unfortunately, we didn’t get passes to visit the convention itself, which was second-rate. I would have liked to been in the epicenter of the action and why we were there. I observed a lot of celebrities and media folks rushing around. The media was especially exhausted after covering the Democratic National Convention the week before. I too was fatigued by the end of the four days. I had to take Friday off from work to recover. It was definitely an out of the ordinary experience.
A few weeks later we were invited to a volunteer appreciation night. Not impressed. Too many people in a small space. It would have been nice to have a special party for the inner-circle folks. I met some fascinating people but didn’t procure their contact information. The Democratic National Convention will roll into the Twin Cities, hopefully in 2016 or 2020. I want to volunteer for them too. I’d be cool to be in the inner-circle and compare notes.
A national political convention has two parallel organizers, the central party committee and the candidate’s campaign. The Committee is the “river” it flows through time. The candidate is the “boat” it jumps in for a while and either gets empowered by a win or beached by a loss. When the candidate wins they gain a larger boat but the Committee Leadership is the ultimate authority as to where the political river flows.
The Committee staffers were professional. They had been through large events before and weren’t flummoxed by challenges. Whereas, the Convention-Candidate McCain staffers were mostly young and inexperienced. They were vitriolic and negative towards every action by the Obama team. They even mocked Obama’s compassion for Bristol. That was profoundly inappropriate. I presume the democrats can be just as vicious but it caustic, unprofessional, and destroys the memory of such greats as Hubert H. Humphrey. He would be ashamed of that behavior.
It was apparent by Wednesday of the RNC that the Committee was unhappy with McCain’s choice for Vice President. They were grumbling about Sarah Palin and I even overheard someone whisper, “We’ve lost it already.” I don’t blame Palin, she and her entourage were overwhelmed by the glamour of the RNC. McCain and his advisors just chose someone who wasn’t ready. Her post-campaign behavior proves that she may have never been a good fit. It was extremely immature to resign from her responsibilities as Alaska’s Governor to grab money in the national spotlight. I’d like to view the movie made about the campaign and see if it matches what I observed.
I am a social liberal and fiscal moderate; thus, politically unaffiliated. I am disgusted by the polarizing elements of both parties. They used to welcome moderates but now the zealots persecute the middle of the road (aka the majority of Americans). My hopes for a viable moderate third-option party have been thwarted. Our society suffers due to the Committees who strangle progress. They can’t see that the proverbial forest for the trees as they strangle us with their political kudzu that favors the wealthiest 1% and big corporations.
Note: Kudzu is a beautiful plant but it tends to destroy all surrounding plants as it seeks the light.
Vote November 6th!
© 2012 Ima B. Musing
Originally, I was going to be a background helper. I was planning to assist with behind the scenes stuff. A few days before the event began I received call from a RNC staff member. They wanted me for a special assignment because I had security clearance (I’d met President G.W. Bush the year before due to the 35W Bridge Collapse and didn’t punch him). I checked with my employer and used vacation time. I cancelled my support-work volunteering shifts and leapt into the center of the action.
Monday was Labor Day and the convention was on hiatus due to a hurricane striking Louisiana (Mmm, wrath of a higher power?) There was a whirlwind of gossip swirling around Bristol Palin’s teenage pregnancy. Bristol had the proverbial “baby bump” so there was no way that they could have disguised the expecting life form. I had the opportunity to just sit and watch. I met most of the people who were highlighted on television. Professional politicians have to be cordial; it’s a part of their charm.
Tuesday and Wednesday were busier. We assisted with events but spent a lot of time waiting. I was dissatisfied in how the RNC treated its volunteers. Most of the time we were served cheap food and no beverages. They didn’t invite us to any event outside of our shift or even keep us informed as to our schedule. We received very little training as to what we were to do or not do besides not drinking alcohol during our shift. They really could have used a professional Manager of Volunteer Resources to tend to the inner-ring of unpaid staff (us).
Thursday, endorsement day, was the most exciting. Lots of energy and action. Stress level was high because some members of the media were aggressively seeking stories and a photo of Bristol. Security was impressive. I will not provide details about this but suffice it to say that only a fool would attack a national convention. They were concerned about anarchists and people who meant us harm. I experienced a few minutes of panic when there was a riot on a bridge in St. Paul. I didn’t want to get hurt or die while volunteering.
We ventured to the St. Paul Rivercentre for the Convention and were permitted to go inside. Unfortunately, we didn’t get passes to visit the convention itself, which was second-rate. I would have liked to been in the epicenter of the action and why we were there. I observed a lot of celebrities and media folks rushing around. The media was especially exhausted after covering the Democratic National Convention the week before. I too was fatigued by the end of the four days. I had to take Friday off from work to recover. It was definitely an out of the ordinary experience.
A few weeks later we were invited to a volunteer appreciation night. Not impressed. Too many people in a small space. It would have been nice to have a special party for the inner-circle folks. I met some fascinating people but didn’t procure their contact information. The Democratic National Convention will roll into the Twin Cities, hopefully in 2016 or 2020. I want to volunteer for them too. I’d be cool to be in the inner-circle and compare notes.
A national political convention has two parallel organizers, the central party committee and the candidate’s campaign. The Committee is the “river” it flows through time. The candidate is the “boat” it jumps in for a while and either gets empowered by a win or beached by a loss. When the candidate wins they gain a larger boat but the Committee Leadership is the ultimate authority as to where the political river flows.
The Committee staffers were professional. They had been through large events before and weren’t flummoxed by challenges. Whereas, the Convention-Candidate McCain staffers were mostly young and inexperienced. They were vitriolic and negative towards every action by the Obama team. They even mocked Obama’s compassion for Bristol. That was profoundly inappropriate. I presume the democrats can be just as vicious but it caustic, unprofessional, and destroys the memory of such greats as Hubert H. Humphrey. He would be ashamed of that behavior.
It was apparent by Wednesday of the RNC that the Committee was unhappy with McCain’s choice for Vice President. They were grumbling about Sarah Palin and I even overheard someone whisper, “We’ve lost it already.” I don’t blame Palin, she and her entourage were overwhelmed by the glamour of the RNC. McCain and his advisors just chose someone who wasn’t ready. Her post-campaign behavior proves that she may have never been a good fit. It was extremely immature to resign from her responsibilities as Alaska’s Governor to grab money in the national spotlight. I’d like to view the movie made about the campaign and see if it matches what I observed.
I am a social liberal and fiscal moderate; thus, politically unaffiliated. I am disgusted by the polarizing elements of both parties. They used to welcome moderates but now the zealots persecute the middle of the road (aka the majority of Americans). My hopes for a viable moderate third-option party have been thwarted. Our society suffers due to the Committees who strangle progress. They can’t see that the proverbial forest for the trees as they strangle us with their political kudzu that favors the wealthiest 1% and big corporations.
Note: Kudzu is a beautiful plant but it tends to destroy all surrounding plants as it seeks the light.
Vote November 6th!
© 2012 Ima B. Musing
Friday, August 24, 2012
IMA’S BOOKWORM REVIEW, VOLUME III, ISSUE 1
Mercury Falls by Robert Krose Three and a half worms
End of the world as we know it with humor. Ribald witty puns and allegories fill this novel. A bit obtuse at times but very clever. Got Armageddon?
The Risk Agent by Ridley Pearson Three and a half worms
Intriguing foray into modern business practices in China. Of course, the main characters were beautiful, gag. At least the author gave them personality flaws and complicated lives. The adventure became rather complicated, it would have been nice to have a glossary to help keep track of who is who. Happy for the map!
The Shape of Desire by Sharon Shinn Three worms
Why do authors presume that women are attracted to beasts? Ugh. Jumping back and forth through time was difficult to follow. Some very good humor and insights into the main character’s soul. However, the female lead was insufferable and the plot line banal. Ending so glucose filled that it will put you into a coma.
The Wrong Man by David Ellis Two worms
The wrong title is more like it. Dah, it ruins the plot line when you already know that the accused is innocent. There were some episodes of good solid writing but the plot line is flimsy. Irritating when the perspective flipped from character to character without much ado. The Tori character was painfully obvious.
Dream of the Celt by Mario Vargas Llosa Two worms
Loose biography of Roger Casement. Great parts were muted by long trivial passages. Exasperating that every other chapter featured reminiscences, chronological would have been easier to follow. The details were too knotty to try to remember when you can’t read the book in one setting. Perhaps something was lost in translation. Terrible that his sexuality was used as a reason for execution, sadly still happening in the world today.
Just search this blog with “bookworm” and you can peruse previous reviews.
Read On!
© 2012 Ima B. Musing
End of the world as we know it with humor. Ribald witty puns and allegories fill this novel. A bit obtuse at times but very clever. Got Armageddon?
The Risk Agent by Ridley Pearson Three and a half worms
Intriguing foray into modern business practices in China. Of course, the main characters were beautiful, gag. At least the author gave them personality flaws and complicated lives. The adventure became rather complicated, it would have been nice to have a glossary to help keep track of who is who. Happy for the map!
The Shape of Desire by Sharon Shinn Three worms
Why do authors presume that women are attracted to beasts? Ugh. Jumping back and forth through time was difficult to follow. Some very good humor and insights into the main character’s soul. However, the female lead was insufferable and the plot line banal. Ending so glucose filled that it will put you into a coma.
The Wrong Man by David Ellis Two worms
The wrong title is more like it. Dah, it ruins the plot line when you already know that the accused is innocent. There were some episodes of good solid writing but the plot line is flimsy. Irritating when the perspective flipped from character to character without much ado. The Tori character was painfully obvious.
Dream of the Celt by Mario Vargas Llosa Two worms
Loose biography of Roger Casement. Great parts were muted by long trivial passages. Exasperating that every other chapter featured reminiscences, chronological would have been easier to follow. The details were too knotty to try to remember when you can’t read the book in one setting. Perhaps something was lost in translation. Terrible that his sexuality was used as a reason for execution, sadly still happening in the world today.
Just search this blog with “bookworm” and you can peruse previous reviews.
Read On!
© 2012 Ima B. Musing
Wednesday, August 22, 2012
MOBBING MIDWAY & ON'S
As a result of the media attention and the wonderful efforts of our members, we had great success for the CMSPM Event #2! First, we gathered at Midway Used and Rare Books, a quirky store filled with myriad tomes on almost every subject imaginable. Proprietors, Kathy & Tom Stransky, are offering a special discount for CMSPM members. You’ll receive a 10% discount when you state that you are a Cash Mob member through September 30th, 2012. Location is 1579 University Avenue West, 55104. Their website is www.midwaybook.com or phone at 651-644-7605.
Second, we consumed calories at On’s Kitchen Thai Cuisine. A terrific group gathered to share a meal and make new friends. Amnvani Khumchaya, nicknamed On, reported that her restaurant has been busy since the article was published. She and her family offer fast, friendly service and delicious food at 1613 University Avenue West, 55104. Their website is www.onskitchen.com or call 651-644-1444. If you weren’t able to attend, please patronize these businesses soon (within the next month).
Cash Mob St Paul MN (CMSPM) was formed because of my personal commitment to where I choose to reside (Twin Cities East Metro). Inspired by Cash Mob Minneapolis, I wanted to rally kindred spirits to assist East Metro entrepreneurs. No agenda, no hidden plans or political bent (that is relegated to my blog). Just plain and simple: civic duty. Spending money at a local merchant is more likely to have a positive impact on the community rather than having the profit sent to some faraway place.
To clarify the Pioneer Press article, my identity is “cloaked in secrecy” and I prefer to remain “anonymous” and use a pseudonym because I don’t seek the spotlight. I’m 100% real but a friend of mine had a bad experience with a stalker who threatened her because of what she wrote in her blog. She had to quit her blog and move to get rid of his obsessive attention. That is the only reason why I use a pseudonym. I’ve been there, done that with a stalker – not a favorable episode (via former boyfriend). I’d be honored if you’d Friend me on Facebook, follow me on Twitter, and regularly read my blog, however, no stalking please.
Remember, nifty gifts are at Something New in the Park, 2301 Como Avenue, Suite 101, St Paul 55108, www.somethingnewinthepark.wordpress.com or call 651-646-2423 for information. The shop features cool stuff made by nearly one hundred local artisans, talk about a positive impact on the area. Stop there on your way to or from the Minnesota State Fair! (CMSPM Event #1)
Please let us know if we should venture to another Green Line venue for September (CMSPM Event #3). Perhaps a Saturday morning or afternoon? Watch our page for details. Thanks! www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Cash-Mob-St-Paul-MN/297499490345966
Mob A Lot!
© 2012 Ima B. Musing
Sunday, August 19, 2012
CASH MOB ST PAUL MN AUGUST 22ND EVENT
You are cordially invited to join our Cash Mob St Paul MN group as we patronize two businesses affected by Green Line – Central Corridor Light Rail construction in St. Paul! We will meet Wednesday, August 22nd at 6pm at On’s Kitchen Thai Cuisine, 1613 University Avenue West, 55104. They are located on the north side of the street, about a half a block west of the intersection with Snelling Avenue. You can access their parking lot from University Avenue, park on a side street (Sherburne or Fry) and walk over, or take the bus. Their phone number is 651-644-1444 and website is www.onskitchen.com for details.
If you arrive earlier than 6pm, please meet us at Midway Used and Rare Books, 1579 University Avenue, the NE corner with Snelling Avenue. Peruse the extensive selection of novels, rare books, comics, and games. We will gather at the doorway at 5:45pm to walk over to On’s for a scrumptious dinner. Their website is www.midwaybook.com or phone at 651-644-7605 for information. They have free parking in rear for patrons. Entrance on Sherburne Avenue into large parking lot on South side of street.
Please RSVP via our Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Cash-Mob-St-Paul-MN/297499490345966 and invite your friends to congregate with us. The more the merrier! While you are there, be so kind as to “Like” our group and get notified of upcoming gatherings. If you aren’t able to join us for this soiree, please support the businesses listed in this note soon. Let them know that you were sent by “Cash Mob St Paul.”
The cash mob rules are simple:
1. Spend $20 cash (more or less but cash does speed up the check out process),
2. Chat with three people that you don’t know but please bring along a friend or two, and
3. Enjoy yourself! We want this to be a fun experience for everyone.
Thank you for all the suggestions for this assembly, it was difficult to choose but this offered the opportunity to assist two nominees on the same evening. Merci beaucoup to our friends at Hirshfields for the insightful idea of a two-for-one. Meanwhile, we urge you to acquire items from myriad small independent businesses along the Green Line. View construction as you would a snowstorm, an inconvenience but at least you don’t have to scrape your windshield or wear boots! A constru-storm?
Other nominations to visit soon include:
Dubliner Pub http://thedublinerpub.com
Little Szechuan http://littleszechuan.com
St. Paul Classic Cookie Company http://saintpaulclassiccookie.blogspot.com
Textile Center http://www.textilecentermn.org
Also, if you need a terrific gift for others or a fun item for yourself visit Something New in the Park, 2301 Como Avenue, Suite 101, St Paul 55108, www.somethingnewinthepark.wordpress.com or call 651-646-2423 for information about the local artists gift shoppe. We went there in July!
Please let us know if we should venture to another Green Line venue for September. Perhaps a Saturday afternoon? Thanks!
Mobbing Feels Good
© 2012 Ima B. Musing
If you arrive earlier than 6pm, please meet us at Midway Used and Rare Books, 1579 University Avenue, the NE corner with Snelling Avenue. Peruse the extensive selection of novels, rare books, comics, and games. We will gather at the doorway at 5:45pm to walk over to On’s for a scrumptious dinner. Their website is www.midwaybook.com or phone at 651-644-7605 for information. They have free parking in rear for patrons. Entrance on Sherburne Avenue into large parking lot on South side of street.
Please RSVP via our Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Cash-Mob-St-Paul-MN/297499490345966 and invite your friends to congregate with us. The more the merrier! While you are there, be so kind as to “Like” our group and get notified of upcoming gatherings. If you aren’t able to join us for this soiree, please support the businesses listed in this note soon. Let them know that you were sent by “Cash Mob St Paul.”
The cash mob rules are simple:
1. Spend $20 cash (more or less but cash does speed up the check out process),
2. Chat with three people that you don’t know but please bring along a friend or two, and
3. Enjoy yourself! We want this to be a fun experience for everyone.
Thank you for all the suggestions for this assembly, it was difficult to choose but this offered the opportunity to assist two nominees on the same evening. Merci beaucoup to our friends at Hirshfields for the insightful idea of a two-for-one. Meanwhile, we urge you to acquire items from myriad small independent businesses along the Green Line. View construction as you would a snowstorm, an inconvenience but at least you don’t have to scrape your windshield or wear boots! A constru-storm?
Other nominations to visit soon include:
Dubliner Pub http://thedublinerpub.com
Little Szechuan http://littleszechuan.com
St. Paul Classic Cookie Company http://saintpaulclassiccookie.blogspot.com
Textile Center http://www.textilecentermn.org
Please let us know if we should venture to another Green Line venue for September. Perhaps a Saturday afternoon? Thanks!
Mobbing Feels Good
© 2012 Ima B. Musing
Monday, August 13, 2012
CAMO CONVENTION
I felt emotionally drained after reading the biography, “Unbroken” written by Laura Hillenbrand. Louis Zamperini and thousands of POWs (Prisoners of War) have endured horrific acts in the hands of the enemy. So much suffering, so much death, and the physical and mental aftereffects of war. Torturing another human being is unconscionable. Sometimes it is worse than demise.
I cried when the book described the flight engineer sacrificing his life to deploy the rafts just before the plane hit the water. That is how my uncle died. I never even got the chance to meet him. I grew up with a depressed mother, upset aunts, sad grandfather, and an angry grandmother as a result. One time grandma said to me, “You should have died, not your uncle.” I ran from the room and refused to speak with her for a year, I was 12.
My family can trace its military involvement back to at least the Civil War. My great-great-grandpa was a Union Captain. My dad was in the Air Force, uncles and cousins are veterans of every branch of the military, including the Marines, Coast Guard, and National Guard. My niece and her hubby were recently in the Navy. My nephew and nephew-in-law are in the Air Force. I have two cousins who are active duty Army, one of whom just returned from yet another tour in Afghanistan.
I am passionate about the military and have written about the topic many times before. I almost joined but I become sassy when orders aren’t logical. Plus, my mother made it very clear that she didn’t want any of her children in the military. Of course, my sister married a guy in the Army so all her kids joined up or married a member of the armed forces.
I fully support the members of the military as long as they adhere to the Geneva Convention and Protocols. They need to follow orders and I sincerely hope that the commands are rational and seek the least amount of harm. Officers and the entire Chain of Command go all the way up to the Commander in Chief, the President of the United States. The command personnel are responsible for the action of the troops and must ensure that civilians and POWs are protected.
Geneva et al must be upheld at all times, if not exceeded by all components of the United States Military and auspices of the Department of Defense (which includes contractors). Any company that receives money from US Government coffers must comply fully with International Humanitarian Law. Period. End of discussion. If not, it creates a direct threat to members of the US military as well as American civilians. My family! We must eradicate all the “enhanced interrogation” which is torture. We must close all “insurgent retention camps” regardless of location because they are POW torture prisons, not just Guantanimo. They must be banned forever.
The United States is supposed to be a role model of democracy for the entire world. We become evil incarnate when we violate the Geneva Convention. It is reprehensible and will cause harm for generations. The people who violated the rules need to be punished at The Hague. They are responsible for war crimes. It doesn’t matter what their title was or is, they must be held liable and it must go up the chain of command. Yes, I mean G.W. Bush, Cheney, Rumsfeld, and their minions.
All soldiers must be held accountable for their misdeeds. Their punishment must be at least as severe as civilian court. I am disgusted when a soldier rapes or murders a non-military person and doesn’t do any jail time. A military court cannot be lenient. I don’t believe in the death sentence; just let people rot in a humane jail. The commanders must take some responsibility when they deploy a soldier/sailor who is clearly showing signs of stress. They should be severely reprimanded, too.
Gender equity will reduce some of the command problems in the military. Women need to be fully equal in the armed forces. Young women need to register for the draft at the age of 18 just the same as young men. Either the draft registration must be eliminated or applied to both genders. Females must be eligible and promoted into every job description in the military. They must be safe from verbal/physical harassment, and sexual assault by co-workers, commanders, and civilian employees. We need to have female Four Star Generals, Joint Chiefs of Staff, key Pentagon personnel, and leading the Department of Defense. Women will still make mistakes but it has to be better than the “boys club” atmosphere.
No More Camouflage Ceiling!
© 2012 Ima B. Musing
I cried when the book described the flight engineer sacrificing his life to deploy the rafts just before the plane hit the water. That is how my uncle died. I never even got the chance to meet him. I grew up with a depressed mother, upset aunts, sad grandfather, and an angry grandmother as a result. One time grandma said to me, “You should have died, not your uncle.” I ran from the room and refused to speak with her for a year, I was 12.
My family can trace its military involvement back to at least the Civil War. My great-great-grandpa was a Union Captain. My dad was in the Air Force, uncles and cousins are veterans of every branch of the military, including the Marines, Coast Guard, and National Guard. My niece and her hubby were recently in the Navy. My nephew and nephew-in-law are in the Air Force. I have two cousins who are active duty Army, one of whom just returned from yet another tour in Afghanistan.
I am passionate about the military and have written about the topic many times before. I almost joined but I become sassy when orders aren’t logical. Plus, my mother made it very clear that she didn’t want any of her children in the military. Of course, my sister married a guy in the Army so all her kids joined up or married a member of the armed forces.
I fully support the members of the military as long as they adhere to the Geneva Convention and Protocols. They need to follow orders and I sincerely hope that the commands are rational and seek the least amount of harm. Officers and the entire Chain of Command go all the way up to the Commander in Chief, the President of the United States. The command personnel are responsible for the action of the troops and must ensure that civilians and POWs are protected.
Geneva et al must be upheld at all times, if not exceeded by all components of the United States Military and auspices of the Department of Defense (which includes contractors). Any company that receives money from US Government coffers must comply fully with International Humanitarian Law. Period. End of discussion. If not, it creates a direct threat to members of the US military as well as American civilians. My family! We must eradicate all the “enhanced interrogation” which is torture. We must close all “insurgent retention camps” regardless of location because they are POW torture prisons, not just Guantanimo. They must be banned forever.
The United States is supposed to be a role model of democracy for the entire world. We become evil incarnate when we violate the Geneva Convention. It is reprehensible and will cause harm for generations. The people who violated the rules need to be punished at The Hague. They are responsible for war crimes. It doesn’t matter what their title was or is, they must be held liable and it must go up the chain of command. Yes, I mean G.W. Bush, Cheney, Rumsfeld, and their minions.
All soldiers must be held accountable for their misdeeds. Their punishment must be at least as severe as civilian court. I am disgusted when a soldier rapes or murders a non-military person and doesn’t do any jail time. A military court cannot be lenient. I don’t believe in the death sentence; just let people rot in a humane jail. The commanders must take some responsibility when they deploy a soldier/sailor who is clearly showing signs of stress. They should be severely reprimanded, too.
Gender equity will reduce some of the command problems in the military. Women need to be fully equal in the armed forces. Young women need to register for the draft at the age of 18 just the same as young men. Either the draft registration must be eliminated or applied to both genders. Females must be eligible and promoted into every job description in the military. They must be safe from verbal/physical harassment, and sexual assault by co-workers, commanders, and civilian employees. We need to have female Four Star Generals, Joint Chiefs of Staff, key Pentagon personnel, and leading the Department of Defense. Women will still make mistakes but it has to be better than the “boys club” atmosphere.
No More Camouflage Ceiling!
© 2012 Ima B. Musing
Friday, August 10, 2012
MAULED BY MERCHANDISE
A friend of mine was visiting from Ohio and wanted to venture to the Mall of America (MOA). Roopa is a hunter & gatherer, shopping is an adventure for her. She gets a thrill out of finding a bargain and is a bit competitive in her comparison-shopping. We went to the mall for two successive days. I visit the mall perhaps once per year so this was an odd occurrence since I consider procurement of commodities to be an unpleasant task.
I was an observer during the trips, except for a meal that I will write a nosh review soon. I have no money to spend since I have been struggling with unemployment/underemployment for over three years. I don’t really like chain-stores anyway because their merchandise lacks originality. Too many times I have been to a party and three people wore the same outfit. I prefer to shop at second hand stores like Arc’s Value Village or Goodwill. Plus, the perfumes, dyes, and fixatives used on the wares invoke my allergies. I’m very sensitive to formaldehyde so I don’t enjoy being in a shop for very long.
Anyway, here are some of the things that I noticed while waiting for Roopa. The MOA is designed for disorientation. It would be pleasant if the corridors had a color-coded designation. I like the addition of seating areas in the hallways for people like me who are marooned while the buying frenzy finishes. There are now kiosks every thirty feet or so that flash messages. I presume that the kiosks can also post multi-lingual public safety information in case of a storm or emergency. The MOA is now 20 years old and I've only been there about a dozen times so I notice changes.
Roopa wanted to visit the Disney Store to procure stuff for her kids. There are cool video screens, which project upon fake trees. A very stunning visual effect. Disconcerting that every manikin was caucasian. You’d think that this huge international conglomerate would be more inclusive. Plus, the Spiderman apparel was only for boys, they should include some girl outfits too. I found the music to be really annoying so I retreated to the corridor while she pounced.
People watching at the MOA was entertaining since I foolishly forgot to bring a book. Teenage females wear almost identical outfits and roam in pairs or a pack. Teenage boys like to hang out in groups of three and wear complimentary outfits. Adult women dress with a bit more individuality but tend to have nearly matching handbags as their friends. Adult men didn’t seem to go the mall unless they were with a female. I guess that they are afraid.
What surprised me the most was the amusement park, Nickelodeon World. It was a beautiful summer day and the park was packed. Why would people want to be inside? I was disturbed by the constant roar and screaming. I like the skylights but the recreational area does get darker at sunset. Not the place to bring excitable kids because they would go wild.
The MOA was lacking any outward efforts to recycle. Nary a bin did I see. It would really be a good thing if all malls would implement a “green” prerogative. The St. Paul River Center offers the best example and the Minneapolis Convention Center is close behind. So much food is tossed that should be composted. All retailers should focus on reducing waste and recycling. It makes more sense to be “green” because it helps the proverbial bottom line to increase profit and gosh darn it, its better for the world.
See ya at the mall, perhaps next year!
© 2012 Ima B. Musing
I was an observer during the trips, except for a meal that I will write a nosh review soon. I have no money to spend since I have been struggling with unemployment/underemployment for over three years. I don’t really like chain-stores anyway because their merchandise lacks originality. Too many times I have been to a party and three people wore the same outfit. I prefer to shop at second hand stores like Arc’s Value Village or Goodwill. Plus, the perfumes, dyes, and fixatives used on the wares invoke my allergies. I’m very sensitive to formaldehyde so I don’t enjoy being in a shop for very long.
Anyway, here are some of the things that I noticed while waiting for Roopa. The MOA is designed for disorientation. It would be pleasant if the corridors had a color-coded designation. I like the addition of seating areas in the hallways for people like me who are marooned while the buying frenzy finishes. There are now kiosks every thirty feet or so that flash messages. I presume that the kiosks can also post multi-lingual public safety information in case of a storm or emergency. The MOA is now 20 years old and I've only been there about a dozen times so I notice changes.
Roopa wanted to visit the Disney Store to procure stuff for her kids. There are cool video screens, which project upon fake trees. A very stunning visual effect. Disconcerting that every manikin was caucasian. You’d think that this huge international conglomerate would be more inclusive. Plus, the Spiderman apparel was only for boys, they should include some girl outfits too. I found the music to be really annoying so I retreated to the corridor while she pounced.
People watching at the MOA was entertaining since I foolishly forgot to bring a book. Teenage females wear almost identical outfits and roam in pairs or a pack. Teenage boys like to hang out in groups of three and wear complimentary outfits. Adult women dress with a bit more individuality but tend to have nearly matching handbags as their friends. Adult men didn’t seem to go the mall unless they were with a female. I guess that they are afraid.
What surprised me the most was the amusement park, Nickelodeon World. It was a beautiful summer day and the park was packed. Why would people want to be inside? I was disturbed by the constant roar and screaming. I like the skylights but the recreational area does get darker at sunset. Not the place to bring excitable kids because they would go wild.
The MOA was lacking any outward efforts to recycle. Nary a bin did I see. It would really be a good thing if all malls would implement a “green” prerogative. The St. Paul River Center offers the best example and the Minneapolis Convention Center is close behind. So much food is tossed that should be composted. All retailers should focus on reducing waste and recycling. It makes more sense to be “green” because it helps the proverbial bottom line to increase profit and gosh darn it, its better for the world.
See ya at the mall, perhaps next year!
© 2012 Ima B. Musing
Tuesday, August 7, 2012
IMA’S ARTIST ILLUMINATION: SONG THAO
Song is one of the lucky ones. He has always been attracted to creative activities. His family’s journey to America was challenging. During his Junior year at Gustavus Adophus College he studied abroad and discovered that the life of the artist was his path. He switched from Engineering to Studio Arts major and has subsequently graduated from MCAD (Minneapolis College of Art and Design) with an MFA and someday will obtain a Ph.D. His day job is a middle-school art teacher and then he ventures into studio to create until the wee hours. During the summer he coaches youth tennis and wins adult tournaments.
Mr. Thao’s family is very supportive of his endeavors. It’s delicate balancing responsibility of a long-established family and succeeding in an urban setting. Being bi-cultural is push-pull and pursuing a career as an artist adds complications. He serves as a positive role model to his siblings, nieces, nephews, extended family, and community.
He can be reached at www.songyerthao.com or 651-210-9715. Song’s studio is located at in the Q. Arma Building, 1224 Quincy Street NE #120, Minneapolis, MN 55413. Call to make an appointment. He was the Best In Show recipient for the 2012 Art-A-Whirl. Let Song know that you read about him in this blog. Photos feature his recent work, I apologize for the grey space interruping the image - I'll try to fix it (problem with Blogger.com).
Seeking clouds of abstraction.
© 2012 Ima B. Musing
Sunday, August 5, 2012
IMA’S BOOKWORM REVIEW, VOLUME II OVERVIEW
Unless someone suggests a title, the novels were selected at random. I shy away from romance novels and violence. Both are stuff of nightmares. A few tomes have been adjusted from their original rating to be in better alignment. Don’t bother reading anything at 2.5 or below.
Read the entire eight-book Tales of the City series, very entertaining. Seem to have perused a lot about WWII with perspectives from Japanese civilians, Chinese civilians, American POWs, and survivors of European concentration camps. Odd coincidence. Rankings are alphabetized by author. Full reviews are in the Volume II series, just search for them on this blog (via Bookworm Review). I prefer to keep the evaluation brief without giving away too much of the plot.
IMA’S BOOKWORM RATINGS:
FIVE WORMS = Perfection
To Be Determined, got any suggestions?
FOUR AND A HALF WORMS = Excellent
Anshu by Juliet S. Kono
FOUR WORMS = Very Good
The Water Children by Anne Berry
Unbroken by Laura Hillenbrand
Life of Pi by Yann Martel
More Tales of the City by Armistead Maupin
Moon Maze Game by David Niven and Steven Barnes
Driftless by David Rhodes
A Cavalcade of Lesser Horrors by Peter Smith
Strindberg’s Star by Jan Walletin
Zone One by Colson Whitehead
THREE AND A HALF WORMS = Good
Kingdom of Strangers by Zoe Ferraris
Citadels of the Lost by Tracy Hickman
Think Like a Cat by Pam Johnson-Bennett
Team of Rivals by Doris Kearns Goodwin
Michael Tolliver Lives by Armistead Maupin
Significant Others by Armistead Maupin
Flash and Bones by Kathy Reichs
The Highest Frontier by Joan Slonscewski
Robopocalypse by Daniel H. Wilson
The Rules of the Tunnel by Ned Zeman
THREE WORMS = Fair, but readable
Night of the Living Trekkies by Kevin David Anderson and Sam Stall
The Invitation by Anne Cherian
When the Saints by Dave Duncan
The Arrogant Years by Lucette Lagnado
Interpreter of the Maladies by Jhumpa Lahiri
Further Tales of the City by Armistead Maupin
Mary Ann in Autumn by Armistead Maupin
Sure of You by Armistead Maupin
Tales of the City by Armistead Maupin
Devil in a Blue Dress by Walter Mosley
The Technologists by Matthew Pearl
Battle Royale by Koushun Takami
The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls
Red Earth, White Earth by Will Weaver
The Warmth of Other Suns by Isabel Wilkerson
The Late Homecomer by Kao Kalia Yang
TWO AND A HALF WORMS = So-So
The Good Muslim by Tahmima Anam
The Measure of the Magic by Terry Brooks
Master and God by Lindsey Davis
The Omen Machine by Terry Goodkind
Glass Asylum by JoAnn Bren Guernsey
Foundation by Mercedes Lackey
Babycakes by Armistead Maupin
The Healing by Jonathan Odell
Solaris Rising edited by Ian Whates
The Divining by Barbara Wood
Song of the Silk Road by Mingmai Yip
TWO WORMS = Oh-Oh
Journal of a UFO Investigator by David Halperin
Nanjing Requiem by Ha Jin
Intrigues by Mercedes Lackey
Here Comes The Nice by Jeremy Reed
ONE WORM = No-No
None, because I just stopped reading the manuscript.
Seeking Five Worms!
© 2012 Ima B. Musing
Read the entire eight-book Tales of the City series, very entertaining. Seem to have perused a lot about WWII with perspectives from Japanese civilians, Chinese civilians, American POWs, and survivors of European concentration camps. Odd coincidence. Rankings are alphabetized by author. Full reviews are in the Volume II series, just search for them on this blog (via Bookworm Review). I prefer to keep the evaluation brief without giving away too much of the plot.
IMA’S BOOKWORM RATINGS:
FIVE WORMS = Perfection
To Be Determined, got any suggestions?
FOUR AND A HALF WORMS = Excellent
Anshu by Juliet S. Kono
FOUR WORMS = Very Good
The Water Children by Anne Berry
Unbroken by Laura Hillenbrand
Life of Pi by Yann Martel
More Tales of the City by Armistead Maupin
Moon Maze Game by David Niven and Steven Barnes
Driftless by David Rhodes
A Cavalcade of Lesser Horrors by Peter Smith
Strindberg’s Star by Jan Walletin
Zone One by Colson Whitehead
THREE AND A HALF WORMS = Good
Kingdom of Strangers by Zoe Ferraris
Citadels of the Lost by Tracy Hickman
Think Like a Cat by Pam Johnson-Bennett
Team of Rivals by Doris Kearns Goodwin
Michael Tolliver Lives by Armistead Maupin
Significant Others by Armistead Maupin
Flash and Bones by Kathy Reichs
The Highest Frontier by Joan Slonscewski
Robopocalypse by Daniel H. Wilson
The Rules of the Tunnel by Ned Zeman
THREE WORMS = Fair, but readable
Night of the Living Trekkies by Kevin David Anderson and Sam Stall
The Invitation by Anne Cherian
When the Saints by Dave Duncan
The Arrogant Years by Lucette Lagnado
Interpreter of the Maladies by Jhumpa Lahiri
Further Tales of the City by Armistead Maupin
Mary Ann in Autumn by Armistead Maupin
Sure of You by Armistead Maupin
Tales of the City by Armistead Maupin
Devil in a Blue Dress by Walter Mosley
The Technologists by Matthew Pearl
Battle Royale by Koushun Takami
The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls
Red Earth, White Earth by Will Weaver
The Warmth of Other Suns by Isabel Wilkerson
The Late Homecomer by Kao Kalia Yang
TWO AND A HALF WORMS = So-So
The Good Muslim by Tahmima Anam
The Measure of the Magic by Terry Brooks
Master and God by Lindsey Davis
The Omen Machine by Terry Goodkind
Glass Asylum by JoAnn Bren Guernsey
Foundation by Mercedes Lackey
Babycakes by Armistead Maupin
The Healing by Jonathan Odell
Solaris Rising edited by Ian Whates
The Divining by Barbara Wood
Song of the Silk Road by Mingmai Yip
TWO WORMS = Oh-Oh
Journal of a UFO Investigator by David Halperin
Nanjing Requiem by Ha Jin
Intrigues by Mercedes Lackey
Here Comes The Nice by Jeremy Reed
ONE WORM = No-No
None, because I just stopped reading the manuscript.
Seeking Five Worms!
© 2012 Ima B. Musing
Friday, August 3, 2012
JOIN OUR MOB 4 GOOD
Announcing our second Cash Mob St Paul MN gathering!! Help support a local business by spending at least $20 cash at this event (okay to spend less). We are honored that the Central Corridor Construction Club is co-hosting this soiree. You can join their group on Facebook, too!
Cash Mob Event #2
Date: Wednesday, August 22nd
Time: 6pm (though you can join us later)
Location: TO BE ANNOUNCED a day or two before the event, please check back for details. Somewhere along the St. Paul end of the Green Line, light rail Central Corridor.
We are seeking nominations for our August event; business must be physically located on the Green Line - Central Corridor construction zone in St. Paul. Please post business name on our Facebook page www.facebook.com/Cash-Mob-St-Paul-MN before noon on Aug 5th. We'll then open a poll to vote for the place we go. (Sorry, no chain stores or franchises qualify.)
The cash mob rules are simple:
1. Spend $20 cash (more or less but cash does speed up the check out process),
2. Chat with three people that you don’t know but please bring along a friend or two, and
3. Enjoy yourself! We want this to be a fun experience for everyone.
On our Facebook (FB) page:
* Please RSVP with “Going” if you can make it; invite your FB Friends; SHARE THIS INVITATION WITH OTHERS via FB by posting on your personal page; and spread the word to non-FB folks.
* If you can’t attend, you can temporarily indicate a “Maybe” to invite your FB friends and then decline at a later date.
* Please decline before the event if you have to cancel.
* “Like” our FB community page at “Cash Mob St Paul MN” to receive notification of future events and invite your FB Friends to join us, too!
We welcome other methods of spreading the word, if you would like to co-host or advertise this event in another way, such as MeetUp. Please send a message via our FB page and keep us informed as to the numbers of people attending. The more the merrier!
Optional: Wear something green to the occasion to indicate that you are a member of the Cash Mob…just an idea, not a requirement.
Thank you ever so much!
PS If you can’t join us for this happening, please patronize the business another time and let them know that you heard about their entrepreneurial efforts from Cash Mob St Paul MN.
We are the Mob for Good!
© 2012 Ima B. Musing
www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Cash-Mob-St-Paul-MN/297499490345966
Cash Mob Event #2
Date: Wednesday, August 22nd
Time: 6pm (though you can join us later)
Location: TO BE ANNOUNCED a day or two before the event, please check back for details. Somewhere along the St. Paul end of the Green Line, light rail Central Corridor.
We are seeking nominations for our August event; business must be physically located on the Green Line - Central Corridor construction zone in St. Paul. Please post business name on our Facebook page www.facebook.com/Cash-Mob-St-Paul-MN before noon on Aug 5th. We'll then open a poll to vote for the place we go. (Sorry, no chain stores or franchises qualify.)
The cash mob rules are simple:
1. Spend $20 cash (more or less but cash does speed up the check out process),
2. Chat with three people that you don’t know but please bring along a friend or two, and
3. Enjoy yourself! We want this to be a fun experience for everyone.
On our Facebook (FB) page:
* Please RSVP with “Going” if you can make it; invite your FB Friends; SHARE THIS INVITATION WITH OTHERS via FB by posting on your personal page; and spread the word to non-FB folks.
* If you can’t attend, you can temporarily indicate a “Maybe” to invite your FB friends and then decline at a later date.
* Please decline before the event if you have to cancel.
* “Like” our FB community page at “Cash Mob St Paul MN” to receive notification of future events and invite your FB Friends to join us, too!
We welcome other methods of spreading the word, if you would like to co-host or advertise this event in another way, such as MeetUp. Please send a message via our FB page and keep us informed as to the numbers of people attending. The more the merrier!
Optional: Wear something green to the occasion to indicate that you are a member of the Cash Mob…just an idea, not a requirement.
Thank you ever so much!
PS If you can’t join us for this happening, please patronize the business another time and let them know that you heard about their entrepreneurial efforts from Cash Mob St Paul MN.
We are the Mob for Good!
© 2012 Ima B. Musing
www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Cash-Mob-St-Paul-MN/297499490345966
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