Wednesday, March 16th 2011
“It is Onaabani Giizis (March) which refers to the month when the snow has formed a solid crust on top. The great significance of this is that after a long winter and depleted resources, the people were able to more easily travel through the forest in search of game or to have access to caches that may have been inaccessible through the deep winter snow. Iskigamizige Giizis (April) the sap boiling moon of course refers to the gathering of the syrup and sugar making,” written by a Red Lake-MN enrollee and a friend of mine. Happy Sugarbush!!!
Attended a Board of Directors meeting for a nonprofit. It was an okay meeting but I’m just not feeling connected to the organization anymore. Perhaps its because I'm not working in this profession and don't have a personal stake anymore. I will fulfill my term this year and then resign.
St. Patrick’s Day
Coordinated a small gathering regarding public policy issues for the nonprofit organization where I am a member of the Board. Disappointed that so few people attended. This is the first time that we have dedicated any effort to politics so I guess it can be considered a foundation year. We have to become active in advocating for our cause because resources are limited and there is a lot of competition.
A gas line exploded in Minneapolis today. I didn’t hear about it until I returned home from my meeting. Fortunately, no one was hurt though several cars were melted. It certainly could have been worse. I know someone who is in Japan on a tour with a group. I was rather surprised that the group departed on Saturday knowing that they were going to a country dealing with a major disaster. I suppose that they can concentrate on the area not directly affected. Disaster starts local but the impact is always larger than the local geographic jurisdiction.
Did not attend any St. Pat’s celebrations. I really like Irish music but don’t enjoy the crowds or drunks. Plus, I can’t afford beer priced twice as expensive since it is dyed green. I’d rather attend the Irish Fest during the summer on Harriet Island in St. Paul, MN.
Friday, March 18th 2011
Feeling blasé today. Melancholy that I wasn’t offered the job from the interview on Monday, even though I didn’t want the position. Rejected by a second health insurance company for coverage, which is irritating and frightening. They said I have a pre-existing condition – what? I’m neither currently ill nor have I even had to see a doctor for quite a while. Bastards! I want to have insurance but I am denied. Still rather sad that yesterday’s event was not well attended. Clouds don't help my mood. Perhaps I'll go out for a walk.
Its almost spring for the northern hemisphere.
(c) 2011
Friday, March 18, 2011
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
IDES OF MARCH
Beware the Ides of March, famous line from Shakespeare’s play about Julius Caesar. Probably not based in fact but it is a compelling piece of drama. Tuesday, March 15th 2011 I sure hope that the nuclear reactors in Japan can be stabilized and avoid meltdown. I know that there are more safety measures than 20 years ago but nothing is guaranteed. It has become a triple whammy of earthquake-tsunami-radiation release. Radiation would make the area uninhabitable and cause problems for many years. Having it release over the ocean will just poison the sea and spread it around the world.
Watched my neighbor get his 40+-year-old tree cut down. A crew of eight dismantled decades of growth in two hours. It had lost some large branches during the past couple years and was dying. I was concerned for the safety of the crew because no one wore a hard hat. The two guys wielding chainsaws neither wore neither eye goggles nor ear headsets to protect their hearing. I have a linden tree in my boulevard space, which is slowly splitting in two. Technically, it belongs to the city so they will have to take it down. I just have to coordinate with them the removal of the roots because digging will disrupt the plants growing there. I have always had an affinity towards trees, it is sad when they have to be chopped down. I reuse and then recycle all the paper products in my home. The exception of course is toilet paper; I do let that flush away.
I’m busy with meetings the next couple days and not sure about Friday. Due to the melting of snow causing flooding throughout the area I will probably volunteer. I don’t know in what capacity, yet. I am a trained volunteer with a couple VOAD groups (Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster). For a list in your area consult the national website at www.nvoad.org
Enjoy the Ides!
© 2011
Watched my neighbor get his 40+-year-old tree cut down. A crew of eight dismantled decades of growth in two hours. It had lost some large branches during the past couple years and was dying. I was concerned for the safety of the crew because no one wore a hard hat. The two guys wielding chainsaws neither wore neither eye goggles nor ear headsets to protect their hearing. I have a linden tree in my boulevard space, which is slowly splitting in two. Technically, it belongs to the city so they will have to take it down. I just have to coordinate with them the removal of the roots because digging will disrupt the plants growing there. I have always had an affinity towards trees, it is sad when they have to be chopped down. I reuse and then recycle all the paper products in my home. The exception of course is toilet paper; I do let that flush away.
I’m busy with meetings the next couple days and not sure about Friday. Due to the melting of snow causing flooding throughout the area I will probably volunteer. I don’t know in what capacity, yet. I am a trained volunteer with a couple VOAD groups (Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster). For a list in your area consult the national website at www.nvoad.org
Enjoy the Ides!
© 2011
Monday, March 14, 2011
MONDAY, MARCH 14TH
I thought that I'd do something different and blog a bit every time that I am on line. I'm not on the internet every day but I will write a daily journal when I have the opportunity.
Friday, March 11th: Horrifying to watch the images of the tsunami in Japan. The people didn't have much time to get out of the way and those who were not able to move did not stand a chance against the water and debris. Stuff can be replaced, it is so profoundly tragic for all the people who died and the people who cared about them. Prepare yourself, others and pets as best that you can by gathering items listed at www.ready.gov or www.redcross.org You have a responsiblity to be as prepared as possible.
Saturday: Rain and snow overnight turned into ice. I had to drive to a meeting and it was not fun. Ten other people made it and the roads were much better for the trip home. Filled car with gas $3.54 = disgusting. The big oil companies and speculators are taking advantage of the situation to increase their profits. Greedy bastards!
Sunday: Daylight savings time is a pain in the butt. I have to go around and adjust every clock that I own. At least the cell phone resets itself. Losing or gaining an hour each spring and fall seems silly. I know it is to reduce energy expenditures but I wonder if it really does make an impact.
Monday: Attended an interview for a position that I really would not enjoy. I want to work but it would be nice to actually be interested in the tasks. Good practice to interview. I have sent out about 175 resumes during the past eight months and this is only the third position where I have been interviewed in person. I don't know what I would say if I was offered the job. I need to work but...
To be continued...
(c) 2011
Friday, March 11th: Horrifying to watch the images of the tsunami in Japan. The people didn't have much time to get out of the way and those who were not able to move did not stand a chance against the water and debris. Stuff can be replaced, it is so profoundly tragic for all the people who died and the people who cared about them. Prepare yourself, others and pets as best that you can by gathering items listed at www.ready.gov or www.redcross.org You have a responsiblity to be as prepared as possible.
Saturday: Rain and snow overnight turned into ice. I had to drive to a meeting and it was not fun. Ten other people made it and the roads were much better for the trip home. Filled car with gas $3.54 = disgusting. The big oil companies and speculators are taking advantage of the situation to increase their profits. Greedy bastards!
Sunday: Daylight savings time is a pain in the butt. I have to go around and adjust every clock that I own. At least the cell phone resets itself. Losing or gaining an hour each spring and fall seems silly. I know it is to reduce energy expenditures but I wonder if it really does make an impact.
Monday: Attended an interview for a position that I really would not enjoy. I want to work but it would be nice to actually be interested in the tasks. Good practice to interview. I have sent out about 175 resumes during the past eight months and this is only the third position where I have been interviewed in person. I don't know what I would say if I was offered the job. I need to work but...
To be continued...
(c) 2011
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
BRING BACK ANALOGUE
Digital TV is a disaster. Usually one or two channels aren’t coming in – even though the antenna has not been moved. Cars driving by interrupt the signal and create a pixilated image. I don’t know if it is because the digital image is so fragile or because of the weak electro-magnetic field that autos create when they move. Trucks can completely wipe out the image and I get a blank screen. I know that it is worse during the winter with snow on the ground. I’ve had snow since November so it’s been many months of horrid reception. A fast moving train on a track a couple blocks from my house causes disruption, too.
There are usually white stripes throughout the image, regardless of the location of the antenna. I paid $25 for the converter box (with the coupon) and another $30 for a new antenna. It is nice to have a couple more channels but frustrating when there is no reception or interference makes it impossible to see or hear the image. Oftentimes the voice does not synchronize with the picture. I have learned to turn the box off and on again to “reboot” the signal. Otherwise, I will turn the closed caption "On" to improve reception. If it still doesn’t create a good image or there is no sound, I just turn off the tv and walk away. I don’t understand why network tv conglomerates like ABC, CBS, CW, FOX, or NBC don’t try to correct these problems because it hurts viewer-ship and revenue.
I can’t afford cable, satellite, or a new digital tv set. It would cost several hundred dollars to procure a digital antenna and have it mounted on the roof of my home. Plus, an unsightly cord dangling alongside the house and extra holes in the roof. Analogue was a much more reliable signal.
Nostalgic for analogue.
©2011
There are usually white stripes throughout the image, regardless of the location of the antenna. I paid $25 for the converter box (with the coupon) and another $30 for a new antenna. It is nice to have a couple more channels but frustrating when there is no reception or interference makes it impossible to see or hear the image. Oftentimes the voice does not synchronize with the picture. I have learned to turn the box off and on again to “reboot” the signal. Otherwise, I will turn the closed caption "On" to improve reception. If it still doesn’t create a good image or there is no sound, I just turn off the tv and walk away. I don’t understand why network tv conglomerates like ABC, CBS, CW, FOX, or NBC don’t try to correct these problems because it hurts viewer-ship and revenue.
I can’t afford cable, satellite, or a new digital tv set. It would cost several hundred dollars to procure a digital antenna and have it mounted on the roof of my home. Plus, an unsightly cord dangling alongside the house and extra holes in the roof. Analogue was a much more reliable signal.
Nostalgic for analogue.
©2011
Thursday, March 3, 2011
DEMOCRATIC THOUGHTS
Not the political party, but the democratic governmental process. Democracy has been around since ancient times. It evolves as societies become more sophisticated. Equality of access is the main principle. All citizens, regardless of gender, religion, social/financial status or any other factor, must participate in the political process. That ranges from being elected, appointed, assisting persons in political office, donating money, and volunteering time for campaigns or specific issues. The most important aspect is one person one vote without interference from anyone (being told how to cast a vote), also known as a free and fair election. Corruption cannot be tolerated at any level. Also, corporations should not be permitted to donate to campaigns.
Women must be a part of the process. They are generally about half the population and should hold half the elected and appointed positions. Unfortunately, few governments have attained parity. Women are not perfect, they will make mistakes but at least gender balance will help all the citizens of the country. It is imperative to have a representation of the population, based on the demographics. When one group of people consider themselves to be superior for any reason it will result in harm. The civil unrest in the Middle East is a current example. America had the Civil War because some people thought that they had the right to own other humans. No one is superior. Humans are flawed, every single person. Period. End of discussion.
I prefer the Parliamentary style of democracy. Coalition building is preferable to a two-party system. Plus, if confidence is lost in the Prime Minister/President a new election will be held within a few months. However, the House of Lords/Senate should be elected not appointed or inherited by heredity. Ability to lead is not a genetic trait. I am surprised that monarchies still exist in the 21st century.
Tolerance of all people is essential. Democracies must not be based on religion. The political process must be secular. Even if every single citizen practices the same faith, there are different interpretations and no one should be forced to follow what they don’t believe. America is moving towards pluralism, though the struggle has been unpleasent. It would have been beter if we started with pluralism.
Equality of access regardless of one’s religion (or non-religion) is essential. If you think that one religion is better than another, you are making the foolish mistake of superiority. Remember, no religious doctrine/practice is superior. Every religion has a right to exist, but not crowd out alternatives. Religion must not be used as an excuse for causing harm to others. Period. End of discussion.
Democracy isn’t perfect, but it’s a lot better than many other types of governance or anarchy. Every citizen must participate to make it work. I wish for true democracy in the countries undergoing transition right now … Tunisia, Libya, Yemen, Bahrain, Jordan, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, etc … best wishes to them all!
© 2011
Women must be a part of the process. They are generally about half the population and should hold half the elected and appointed positions. Unfortunately, few governments have attained parity. Women are not perfect, they will make mistakes but at least gender balance will help all the citizens of the country. It is imperative to have a representation of the population, based on the demographics. When one group of people consider themselves to be superior for any reason it will result in harm. The civil unrest in the Middle East is a current example. America had the Civil War because some people thought that they had the right to own other humans. No one is superior. Humans are flawed, every single person. Period. End of discussion.
I prefer the Parliamentary style of democracy. Coalition building is preferable to a two-party system. Plus, if confidence is lost in the Prime Minister/President a new election will be held within a few months. However, the House of Lords/Senate should be elected not appointed or inherited by heredity. Ability to lead is not a genetic trait. I am surprised that monarchies still exist in the 21st century.
Tolerance of all people is essential. Democracies must not be based on religion. The political process must be secular. Even if every single citizen practices the same faith, there are different interpretations and no one should be forced to follow what they don’t believe. America is moving towards pluralism, though the struggle has been unpleasent. It would have been beter if we started with pluralism.
Equality of access regardless of one’s religion (or non-religion) is essential. If you think that one religion is better than another, you are making the foolish mistake of superiority. Remember, no religious doctrine/practice is superior. Every religion has a right to exist, but not crowd out alternatives. Religion must not be used as an excuse for causing harm to others. Period. End of discussion.
Democracy isn’t perfect, but it’s a lot better than many other types of governance or anarchy. Every citizen must participate to make it work. I wish for true democracy in the countries undergoing transition right now … Tunisia, Libya, Yemen, Bahrain, Jordan, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, etc … best wishes to them all!
© 2011
Monday, February 28, 2011
BOYCOTT THE EXCLUDERS
Boycott any business which excludes unemployed candidates from applying for open positions. This is clear discrimination! If you know of any companies who do this, please send a copy of their posting as proof and we'll start a list on my Facebook page. Boycott the excluders!
Read an interesting article posted at http://www.ere.net/2011/02/28/refusing-applications-from-the-unemployed-best-practice-or-madness/
All the negatives are relative, they apply to some people but not all unemployed people.
I've been unemployed for almost eight months. I am not rusty, if anything I am charged up to perform at 1,000%.
(c) 2011
Read an interesting article posted at http://www.ere.net/2011/02/28/refusing-applications-from-the-unemployed-best-practice-or-madness/
All the negatives are relative, they apply to some people but not all unemployed people.
I've been unemployed for almost eight months. I am not rusty, if anything I am charged up to perform at 1,000%.
(c) 2011
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
WINTER OF MY DISCONTENT
No, I shan’t be murdering my nephews. Our family has neither title nor property (land, valuables or cash). I’m just frustrated with the job search. It has been over seven months and I am anxious to work full time. I have sent out nearly 150 resumes and only garnered two in-person interviews. Ugh!
I am glad to have a computer at home, which was given to me by my best friend, Annie. Dial-up is slow but at least I have access to job search sites. I get to visit lots of interesting websites since postings seem to be listed on 100+ sites instead of 99% of them being in the Sunday newspaper. Too many hours sitting at the keyboard to do the same research an hour with the newspaper would have accomplished – grrrr. What a waste of time and energy.
I am grateful for time to devote to projects. The yard sleeps under a couple feet of snow so I can focus on inside chores when I am not shoveling. I want to organize stuff and do more air seepage insulation to keep out the cold. I have the supplies but it always takes a lot of time to figure out exactly what needs to be done, prepare, do it, and clean up. Inevitably, the task always takes myriad times as long as the original estimate. There is always something to clean or sort. If I get enough chores completed, I can get back to doing artwork. It’s been a long time since I’ve worked on a creative project. I also want to read more books.
I have time to support Mitch. He finished alcoholism treatment in December and continued to attend weekly AA meetings. Besides gatherings of our group of friends, we have gotten together a couple times. He surprised me the other day by calling and initiating a meeting for coffee/tea. In the 20 some years that I have known Mitch, this is a rare occurrence. I look forward to our meeting! His partner, Peter, seems to be okay but I check in with him too. I am still a bit stunned that Mitch is an alcoholic and I that totally clueless. Friends are my family of choice since my biological family is not supportive. I am blessed to have some good friends, even though several reside out of the area.
Anticipating spring and a job.
© 2011
I am glad to have a computer at home, which was given to me by my best friend, Annie. Dial-up is slow but at least I have access to job search sites. I get to visit lots of interesting websites since postings seem to be listed on 100+ sites instead of 99% of them being in the Sunday newspaper. Too many hours sitting at the keyboard to do the same research an hour with the newspaper would have accomplished – grrrr. What a waste of time and energy.
I am grateful for time to devote to projects. The yard sleeps under a couple feet of snow so I can focus on inside chores when I am not shoveling. I want to organize stuff and do more air seepage insulation to keep out the cold. I have the supplies but it always takes a lot of time to figure out exactly what needs to be done, prepare, do it, and clean up. Inevitably, the task always takes myriad times as long as the original estimate. There is always something to clean or sort. If I get enough chores completed, I can get back to doing artwork. It’s been a long time since I’ve worked on a creative project. I also want to read more books.
I have time to support Mitch. He finished alcoholism treatment in December and continued to attend weekly AA meetings. Besides gatherings of our group of friends, we have gotten together a couple times. He surprised me the other day by calling and initiating a meeting for coffee/tea. In the 20 some years that I have known Mitch, this is a rare occurrence. I look forward to our meeting! His partner, Peter, seems to be okay but I check in with him too. I am still a bit stunned that Mitch is an alcoholic and I that totally clueless. Friends are my family of choice since my biological family is not supportive. I am blessed to have some good friends, even though several reside out of the area.
Anticipating spring and a job.
© 2011
Thursday, February 17, 2011
BOOKWORM REVIEW TWO
Four worms is top rating. Five is perfection but that is rarely attained.
“Oyster: History on the Half Shell” four worms, written by Mark Kurlansky; gets a bit histrionic in the middle (aka bland) otherwise quite interesting
“Snow Flower and the Secret Fan” three and a half worms, authored by Lisa See; a few logic issues but well written
“The Eight” three worms, authored by Katherine Neville; the last third of the book should have been expanded into a second novel. Understanding the game of chess helps the reader.
“Shutter Island” three worms, by Dennis Lehane; not quite accurate regarding mental illness. Learn the facts at www.nami.org
“Nemesis” three worms, by Philip Roth; Cantor character starts well and then stalls
“Absent a Miracle” two and a half worms, by Christine Lehrer; too many tangents that did not intersect
“Venetia Kelly’s Traveling Show” two and a half worms; by Frank Delaney; too many digressions and the main character would have hired a private detective regardless of cost
“Hero of Our Time” two worms, by Mikhail Lermontov; the scenery descriptions are excellent. Maybe something was lost in translation to English
NOTE: Four Worms is the highest rating for this group.
One of my peeves is when an author hurries an ending of the book. I am sure it is at the request of the editor but it ruins the tempo of the novel. The descriptions are cut short and the character development ends. I’d rather have a book divided into two or three volumes rather than rush the end. “The Eight” which was published in 1988 is a perfect example; either edit out the extraneous stuff in the first part of the book or else expand the final chapters.
Read another review of books from the posting Bookworm Review on September 14, 2010. Please leave suggestions of books that I should reveiw, plus, join as an official "follower" of this blog.
Happy Reading!
© 2011
“Oyster: History on the Half Shell” four worms, written by Mark Kurlansky; gets a bit histrionic in the middle (aka bland) otherwise quite interesting
“Snow Flower and the Secret Fan” three and a half worms, authored by Lisa See; a few logic issues but well written
“The Eight” three worms, authored by Katherine Neville; the last third of the book should have been expanded into a second novel. Understanding the game of chess helps the reader.
“Shutter Island” three worms, by Dennis Lehane; not quite accurate regarding mental illness. Learn the facts at www.nami.org
“Nemesis” three worms, by Philip Roth; Cantor character starts well and then stalls
“Absent a Miracle” two and a half worms, by Christine Lehrer; too many tangents that did not intersect
“Venetia Kelly’s Traveling Show” two and a half worms; by Frank Delaney; too many digressions and the main character would have hired a private detective regardless of cost
“Hero of Our Time” two worms, by Mikhail Lermontov; the scenery descriptions are excellent. Maybe something was lost in translation to English
NOTE: Four Worms is the highest rating for this group.
One of my peeves is when an author hurries an ending of the book. I am sure it is at the request of the editor but it ruins the tempo of the novel. The descriptions are cut short and the character development ends. I’d rather have a book divided into two or three volumes rather than rush the end. “The Eight” which was published in 1988 is a perfect example; either edit out the extraneous stuff in the first part of the book or else expand the final chapters.
Read another review of books from the posting Bookworm Review on September 14, 2010. Please leave suggestions of books that I should reveiw, plus, join as an official "follower" of this blog.
Happy Reading!
© 2011
Thursday, February 3, 2011
CONGRESS: BUILD A HOME ACTION PLAN
This is the second posting regarding a method to improve communication within the US Congress. Please read the first blog "Congress: Build A Home" for background information. Thanks!
#1 CONTACT CONGRESS
Urge your members of Congress to dedicate several shifts at the Habitat for Humanity House in Washington DC during the current session.
To learn the name of your Representative and both Senators, visit
http://hq-salsa.wiredforchange.com/o/5950/getLocal.jsp (sponsored by League of Women Voters). Call, write a letter, send an email, send a fax, or visit them in person. It is good to use at least two forms of communication to send your message. Be polite, brief, and let them why you care that they participate in the Congress Build A Home project
#2 SHARE THIS PETITION
Let other folks know about this effort to increase communication amongst member of Congress in a positive effort. The future of the United States depends upon the relationships of our public servants. I want my Representative and Senators to find common ground with others.
#3 SET AN EXAMPLE
Actively engage in your community. You can assist at a Habitat for Humanity home or another charity of your choice. Lots of great opportunities are located at the www.handson.org; www.volunteermatch.com; and www.idealist.org websites. Not all nonprofits are listed on the Internet so just call a nonprofit and ask for the person who works with volunteers. Then, inform your Congress-members that you are building the community through volunteering. Some people refer to it as civic engagement or in school they may call it service learning.
#4 DONATE FUNDS (after the project is finalized)
Visit the website www.dchabitat.org/individual.html for a variety of options.
Or, donate directly through the Network for Good website. Make certain that you use the “Program Designation” box for “Congress Home” to ensure the funds go directly toward this effort. You can call the DC Habitat office at 202-882-4600 ext 232 for specific information.
If for some reason members of Congress do not follow through on this effort, all funds raised will be added to the general fund of DC Habitat to build homes for deserving families. Make certain that you note this second option when donating; this project has not been finalized, yet.
NOTE: If you are unable to donate, that is fine, it is more important to personally contact members of Congress.
#5 THANK CONGRESS
When they actually start working on the home, make certain that you let them know that you are proud of their efforts. We will applaud all members of Congress who fulfill their shift requirement. Praise is good!
Thank you for your participation in this effort.
© 2011
#1 CONTACT CONGRESS
Urge your members of Congress to dedicate several shifts at the Habitat for Humanity House in Washington DC during the current session.
To learn the name of your Representative and both Senators, visit
http://hq-salsa.wiredforchange.com/o/5950/getLocal.jsp (sponsored by League of Women Voters). Call, write a letter, send an email, send a fax, or visit them in person. It is good to use at least two forms of communication to send your message. Be polite, brief, and let them why you care that they participate in the Congress Build A Home project
#2 SHARE THIS PETITION
Let other folks know about this effort to increase communication amongst member of Congress in a positive effort. The future of the United States depends upon the relationships of our public servants. I want my Representative and Senators to find common ground with others.
#3 SET AN EXAMPLE
Actively engage in your community. You can assist at a Habitat for Humanity home or another charity of your choice. Lots of great opportunities are located at the www.handson.org; www.volunteermatch.com; and www.idealist.org websites. Not all nonprofits are listed on the Internet so just call a nonprofit and ask for the person who works with volunteers. Then, inform your Congress-members that you are building the community through volunteering. Some people refer to it as civic engagement or in school they may call it service learning.
#4 DONATE FUNDS (after the project is finalized)
Visit the website www.dchabitat.org/individual.html for a variety of options.
Or, donate directly through the Network for Good website. Make certain that you use the “Program Designation” box for “Congress Home” to ensure the funds go directly toward this effort. You can call the DC Habitat office at 202-882-4600 ext 232 for specific information.
If for some reason members of Congress do not follow through on this effort, all funds raised will be added to the general fund of DC Habitat to build homes for deserving families. Make certain that you note this second option when donating; this project has not been finalized, yet.
NOTE: If you are unable to donate, that is fine, it is more important to personally contact members of Congress.
#5 THANK CONGRESS
When they actually start working on the home, make certain that you let them know that you are proud of their efforts. We will applaud all members of Congress who fulfill their shift requirement. Praise is good!
Thank you for your participation in this effort.
© 2011
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
CONGRESS, BUILD A HOME!
Good communication is essential for every relationship. It was nice that some Members of Congress sat next to each other during the State of the Union 2011 speech, but as you know, the United States Congress has not been communicating very well for several years and the entire population suffers as a result.
In an effort to improve communication, it is proposed that:
112th CONGRESS BUILDS A HABITAT FOR HUMANITY HOME IN WASHINGTON, DC.
Only elected members of the US 112th Congress (sworn in January 2011) would be permitted to volunteer their time to work on the home within the "Beltway." Habitat is a trustworthy charity and would provide a neutral location for members to get to know each other. It would be required for half the volunteers to be "liberal" and half "conservative" during each shift, example: 10 volunteers needed so 5 would be Democrat and 5 would be Republican. Independent party (Tea Party)-unaffiliated members of Congress would join the political party that they vote with the majority of the time. Technically, conservatives currently outnumber liberals so one extra Republican per shift would be permitted.
No cameras, microphones or cell phones would be allowed on the site. The goal is to construct a home for a deserving family and build personal relationships in Congress. Donations to the project would be anonymous, as to avoid corporate sponsorship or influence from lobbyists. The goal is to complete construction before they get busy with the next election.
Each Senator and Representative would assist for several shifts (the exact number depends upon the specific house). If they were physically unable to help due to an injury or physical condition, would serve their shift in the hospitality tent and serve coffee and snacks to the workers. If they are unable to assist with hospitality, they could send their Chief of Staff (no other exemptions are permitted). The Caucus Office of each party could schedule shifts with DC Habitat office. Building a home takes several months so there is ample opportunity to schedule a shift.
Members are not permitted to take on extra shifts or substitute for someone. The point of this effort is to create a shared experience for ALL MEMBERS OF CONGRESS. It won’t work if only a few folks participate. Many members have already helped at homes in their local district or even in DC but the 112th Congress effort is unique. Perhaps they will get along better if they hammer nails along side of each other. Habitat for Humanity of Washington, DC has already indicated a willingness to do this project. To learn about their organization, visit www.dchabitat.org for more information.
Post a comment and let me know what you think of this idea.
(c) 2011
In an effort to improve communication, it is proposed that:
112th CONGRESS BUILDS A HABITAT FOR HUMANITY HOME IN WASHINGTON, DC.
Only elected members of the US 112th Congress (sworn in January 2011) would be permitted to volunteer their time to work on the home within the "Beltway." Habitat is a trustworthy charity and would provide a neutral location for members to get to know each other. It would be required for half the volunteers to be "liberal" and half "conservative" during each shift, example: 10 volunteers needed so 5 would be Democrat and 5 would be Republican. Independent party (Tea Party)-unaffiliated members of Congress would join the political party that they vote with the majority of the time. Technically, conservatives currently outnumber liberals so one extra Republican per shift would be permitted.
No cameras, microphones or cell phones would be allowed on the site. The goal is to construct a home for a deserving family and build personal relationships in Congress. Donations to the project would be anonymous, as to avoid corporate sponsorship or influence from lobbyists. The goal is to complete construction before they get busy with the next election.
Each Senator and Representative would assist for several shifts (the exact number depends upon the specific house). If they were physically unable to help due to an injury or physical condition, would serve their shift in the hospitality tent and serve coffee and snacks to the workers. If they are unable to assist with hospitality, they could send their Chief of Staff (no other exemptions are permitted). The Caucus Office of each party could schedule shifts with DC Habitat office. Building a home takes several months so there is ample opportunity to schedule a shift.
Members are not permitted to take on extra shifts or substitute for someone. The point of this effort is to create a shared experience for ALL MEMBERS OF CONGRESS. It won’t work if only a few folks participate. Many members have already helped at homes in their local district or even in DC but the 112th Congress effort is unique. Perhaps they will get along better if they hammer nails along side of each other. Habitat for Humanity of Washington, DC has already indicated a willingness to do this project. To learn about their organization, visit www.dchabitat.org for more information.
Post a comment and let me know what you think of this idea.
(c) 2011
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