Let there be more to your Christmas this year.
A remarkable young woman in an Indian slum who had done the unimaginable (for an “untouchable”) and graduated from college, came back to her hometown to visit. The local thug, who was leading gang-rapes and torture of the women in the village didnt like her uppity ways, so he and his gang surrounded her home, intending to kill her and her whole family. She frightened them by turning on the gas stove and threatening to explode them all if they tried to burn down her family’s hut. Villagers, amazed by her bravery, were emboldened and gathered around the thugs with sticks and stones. They ran away, but not for long. Usha knew a showdown was inevitable. She organized a clandestine campaign against Akku Yadav, which culminated in him being stabbed hundreds and hundreds of times by dozens of village women in the county courthouse. He was shredded when they were done with him. Begging for mercy at the end, he slowly bled to death. One of his signature tortures was to chop off women’s breasts after they were gang-raped, preferably in front of their children/family/neighbors.The women returned the sentiment and were sure to remove his penis long before he died.
So, instead of helping boys maintain their privilege, how about we help girls and women worldwide this holiday season? I’m partial to the Apne Ap group in India and will be sending my gift cards there. They welcome volunteers by the way, if you are itching to take an extended vacay from the good ole USA. An excellent selection to choose from here :
http://www.halftheskymovement.org/get-involved
(h/t FLBarbara)
One very gratifying aspect to helping international aid organizations is that a little bit of money goes a LOOONG way (and the unspeakable horror so many international women and girls face is, well, unspeakable. But, just the same, I kind of want to help American women and their children as well. FLBarbara and others, can you help us out with links, ideas, resources, about where we can be of best help to American women?
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DancesWithPumas 12.15.09 at 11:58 am
A Hoover?
Damn.
gojoyknocks 12.15.09 at 12:09 pm
What a charming story. I hope one day I will have the chance rid the planet of an evil prick. Until then I will donate all I can.
gojoyknocks 12.15.09 at 12:12 pm
to
,,,,,,,,,,,
I always forget the commas.
scarlet 12.15.09 at 12:18 pm
CASH FOR CAULKERS
HOME INSULATION IS SEXY – OBAMA
By JULIE PACE, Associated Press Writer Julie Pace, Associated Press Writer – 3 mins ago
WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama said Tuesday that home insulation “is sexy,” his newest appeal for Congress to pass incentives for homeowners who make their homes more energy efficient.
“Here’s what’s sexy about it. It saves money,” the president said at a Northern Virginia Home Depot store. He was joined at the outlet by members of Congress representing Virginia and labor and business leaders involved in services to lower use of natural resources consumed by homeowners.
Calling insulation the in-thing, Obama’s pitch was part of a broader administration push to lower the nation’s 10 percent unemployment rate. And it marked the fourth time in less than two weeks that the president has presided over high-profile events that call attention to his efforts to curb joblessness.
Last week, Obama advanced a new spending plan that would provide tax breaks for energy-efficient retrofits in homes. The plan also calls for small business tax cuts and new spending on highway and bridge construction. The administration hasn’t put a price tag on the plan, but it could total more than $150 billion.
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20091215/ap_on_bi_ge/us_obama_energy_efficiency
scarlet 12.15.09 at 12:21 pm
Risky Business
Electricity theft on the rise nationwide
http://video.foxnews.com/12519023/risky-business
FLBarbara 12.15.09 at 12:21 pm
Murphy and PUMAs
Womens shelters are very much in need of donations as well as volunteer time. A ride to a job interview, child care etc makes a huge impact on women and children in shelters.
I have chosen Women in Distress as a model for how shelter life should be.
In Broward County FL as a juror you can donate your pay directly to them when you sign in for duty. That is a program I would like to see done through out the country.
I am proud of Broward County for stepping up to this program.
There are shelters in all your communties that need a hand to hold and a heart that listens.
If you need to buy a gift then do it in stores like Dress Barn that donate suits to women, they also accept your donated suits and give you a discount on a new suit.
This email is from Women in Distress, visit their site and see their incredible work.
Started by the (((Moran family))).
“Dear Friends
:As the holiday season approaches, thoughts of gifts usually surround us…gifts for parents, grandparents, children and friends. This year Women In Distress is asking you to consider another gift – the gift of HOPE. Each of us has the ability to give this gift and each gift, significant in its own right, becomes even more powerful when joined together with other gifts. That’s when a difference is made!Domestic violence is a community-wide problem, affecting people from all socioeconomic and cultural backgrounds, as well as their children and families. At Women In Distress, we are committed to eliminating domestic violence and as a gift-giver and supporter, you become part of this network of people. With as little as $18, or a canned food item, you will be helping the life a woman, man or child this holiday season.As we gear up for our annual holiday drives, we would like to take this time to invite you to partake in the joy of giving. Please continue reading for ways to help others in need this holiday season and year-round. Know that every gift counts!On behalf of Women In Distress and the participants we serve, thank you for giving the gift of HOPE this year and thank you for your continued support in our community.We wish you a very happy holiday season!
Thank You, Mary Riedel,
President and CEO”
Women In Distress of Broward County, providing victims of domestic violence with safe shelter, crisis intervention, resources and education for the community
http://www.womenindistress.org/
Casper Cat 12.15.09 at 12:25 pm
Pumas…. A Must SEE… Please go to Tennesee Guerilla Women(Right hand column under Women’s Rights) and click on the ‘Kathy and Mo period skit’…. Thanks… And, Thanks to Tennesee Guerilla Women for posting it….
murphy 12.15.09 at 12:25 pm
if you dont have anything pressing, you can spend the rest of the day here:
http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2009/08/26/magazine/20090826-a-womens-world-reader-photos.html
looking for a better picture to top this thread. The Hoover pic is meant to be ironically cajoling. But I dont like it. Im giving myself a harumph.
murphy 12.15.09 at 12:29 pm
FLBarb (or anyone with experience),
Here are the doubts/fears that beset me when I think of volunteering/contributing to women’s shelters etc in my area.
1. I dont have enough money to actually help. What will a $20 donation do.
2. They’re funded by the govmt and dont really need my small cash, blankets, coats, children’s toys, etc etc
3. They are so incredibly depressing, chaotic, and desperate I would be ashamed to just stop by like some Lady Bountiful to make a small donation.
4. I’ll be overhwhelmed and wracked by guilt when I see how awful things are.
Got any advice for people like me?
DancesWithPumas 12.15.09 at 12:30 pm
I like the Hoover picture… reminds me (again and again) of the mindset of the lackwitted pr boys.
HP Boston 12.15.09 at 12:38 pm
DancesWithPumas 12.15.09 at 12:30 pm
I like the Hoover picture… reminds me (again and again) of the mindset of the lackwitted pr boys.
———————————
Ya and it is strange they do not and never have come in PINK!
Damn that would have been so clever!
DancesWithPumas 12.15.09 at 12:48 pm
New poll shows Michelle Obama’s stock is on the rise
December 15th
From CNN Political Editor Mark Preston
Washington (CNN) – Michelle Obama’s stock is on the rise as more Americans approve of how she is handling her role as first lady now than they did 10 months ago, according to a new Marist College Poll.
The survey shows that 57 percent of registered voters approve of Obama’s performance as first lady, up 7 points from a Marist poll conducted in March. Twenty-four percent said it has been fair, while 10 percent thought she is doing a poor job.
But Obama is not viewed as a transformative first lady. Only 37 percent said she has changed the role for the better, while 46 responded she has done nothing to change it. Another 10 percent said Obama has changed it for the worse, while 7 percent were unsure.
The poll of 858 registered voters was conducted on December 2, 3 and 7. It has a margin of error of plus or minus 3.5 percent.
DancesWithPumas 12.15.09 at 12:54 pm
$20.
Toothpaste
Toothbrushes
Soap
shampoo
under garments
reams of paper for resume / business letters
envelopes
stamps
pens
printer ink
lightbulbs
gloves
scarves
condiments
$20. is nothing to scoff at for people who have nothing.
Aside from the monetary amount, all contributions are reflections of people who are aware and care enough to do something, anything, about it.
One million people donating $1 equals one million dollars.
Stopping by, period, equates to someone who cares, Lady Beautiful vs Lady Bountiful.
FLBarbara 12.15.09 at 12:56 pm
Another Organization is Kids in Distress also in Broward County FL (Wilton Manors) but maybe something similar in your communities.
This is an incredible organization, the “Home” is beautiful and is an example of the loving caring Gay community of Wilton Manors, as most of the “moms and dads” to these children are from the community of Wilton Manors.
(Wilton Manors is known as a gay village, although its population is extremely diverse. Wilton Manors ranks 3rd in the U.S. for its percentage of gay residents as a proportion of total population)
My friend ((Michael)) is one of the Psychologist.
Kids In Distress is a nationally accredited agency dedicated to the prevention of child abuse, the preservation of the family and the care and treatment of abused and neglected children.
http://www.kidsindistress.org/
FLBarbara 12.15.09 at 1:03 pm
Murphy
Those are great valid questions and I will answer them but I have a doctors appointment and running out door as always. Will be Back to do so.
I thank you very much for this post
(((MURPHY)))
murphy 12.15.09 at 1:47 pm
the health insurance “reform” bill is such a cluster eff, I’ve mostly tuned it out. Uppity is still paying attention however:
http://uppitywoman08.wordpress.com/2009/12/15/seedy-reid-keeping-health-insurance-the-way-it-is-only-more-expensive-and-out-of-reach/
CJK 12.15.09 at 1:57 pm
murphy 12.15.09 at 12:29 pm
Murphy, you are such a compassionate, insightful, intelligent, perceptive, strong, understanding person, I would think your presence at a women’s shelter for the women and kids to just talk with and be near would be far more valuable than any material or monetary donation. Another thought, why not take some of your beautiful poetry or other writings and offer readings? To me, such a gift would have meant the difference between despair and hope. What you offer to those who are in pain and turmoil is priceless, IMO. Thank you.
Puma-SF 12.15.09 at 2:18 pm
Senior administration officials wrote to Illinois Gov. Patrick Quinn to inform him that President Obama has directed the government to buy the prison in Thomson, Ill. In the letter, released Tuesday, Attorney General Eric H. Holder Jr. , Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates , Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton , Director of National Intelligence Dennis C. Blair and Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano said the administration would upgrade security at the prison, which will mostly accept regular federal prisoners
http://www.cqpolitics.com/wmspage.cfm?docID=cqmidday-000003267614&utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter&utm_campaign=top-stories
Puma-SF 12.15.09 at 2:20 pm
Murphy: I’m with CJK if you really want to do it you can try volunteering for a few hours a week and see how you like it.
sheila7 12.15.09 at 2:40 pm
Danceswithpumas is correct.
$20.00 goes a long way for someone with nothing.
Another thing is time if you don’t have money. I start training in January for the crisis help line for a women’s center here. I’m very nervous that I won’t be able to do this well and I hope I don’t screw somebody up saying the wrong thing or something, but I’m going to give it a shot.
sheila7 12.15.09 at 2:42 pm
prplvette85,
If you’re lurking, I sent you an email. It has a video with it. I thought you would get a kick out of it.
freddiebrown 12.15.09 at 3:00 pm
Murphy – I think people at shelters would be grateful just to know that they are not alone and anything we can donate will help and cheer them up. In California there is no more Govt. funding for womens shelters.
I got wind of a 18 year old unemployed girl who has been roughed up this weekend by her 26 year old boyfriend. Going to a shelter is not in the cards for this girl who was so brow beaten at such a young age she’s afraid to do anything and now doing the “he’s usually not like this” dance. However, I just have an idea to hire her to help someone less fortunate so she will have a means to earn her rent, and hopefully get an idea that life is too precious to have someone treat you worst than a dog. I like my “charity work” doing double duty.
I will also check out half the sky… I love the phrase.
CJK 12.15.09 at 3:16 pm
Looks like Lieberman caved on Senate hc bill. So, BO’s Chicago-way arm-twisting and thuggery is again intimidating all the Ds to fall in line to support this horrific bill that will destroy the world’s best healthcare system, even though the majority of Americans oppose the bill by 56 percent to 40 percent.
http://www.rasmussenreports.com/public_content/politics/current_events/healthcare/september_2009/health_care_reform.
You’d have thought Lieberman would be so furious over the Ds trying to get his wife kicked off the Komen ambassadorship that he’d at least dig in his heels and stand up to the thugs by standing up for his wife by voting against this bill, even if he can’t seem to see his way clear to stand up and vote against it in order to heed the will of the American people. So much for ‘Mr. Independent.’ Lieberman, you’ve got mail.
http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2009/12/14/blog-wants-celebs-help-oust-liebermans-wife-breast-cancer-cure-group/
http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2009/12/15/medicare-buy-scrapped-obama-summons-dems/
Delle 12.15.09 at 3:48 pm
Look what they are doing to Nelson.
This is extortion!
http://www.stoptheaclu.com/2009/12/15/white-house-threatens-to-close-offut-air-force-base-if-nelson-doesnt-vote-for-obamacare/
CJK 12.15.09 at 4:19 pm
murphy 12.15.09 at 12:25 pm
Murphy, here are seven suggested photo candidates for your consideration, all conveying the theme of the importance of educating girls and empowering women.
http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2009/08/26/magazine/20090826-a-womens-world-reader-photos.html#/20555
http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2009/08/26/magazine/20090826-a-womens-world-reader-photos.html#/20537
http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2009/08/26/magazine/20090826-a-womens-world-reader-photos.html#/20901
http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2009/08/26/magazine/20090826-a-womens-world-reader-photos.html#/20648
http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2009/08/26/magazine/20090826-a-womens-world-reader-photos.html#/20610
http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2009/08/26/magazine/20090826-a-womens-world-reader-photos.html#/20314
http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2009/08/26/magazine/20090826-a-womens-world-reader-photos.html#/20265
CJK 12.15.09 at 4:26 pm
Delle 12.15.09 at 3:48 pm
Yup, Delle, that’s precisely what it is. Same kind of Chicago-way arm-twisting thuggery BO has used throughout his political career. But, as the article points out, this is a sure sign of how desperate BO and his sycophantic Ds have become. Those sinking poll numbers must really have them all running scared.
CJK 12.15.09 at 4:35 pm
P.S. Another word comes to mind to describe the threat from a POTUS so willing to sacrifice national security just to get his way on a piece of (crap) legislation: Treason.
DancesWithPumas 12.15.09 at 5:14 pm
Murphy
re: 25
You can’t copy and paste photos from Flash movies.
Deb55 12.15.09 at 5:18 pm
Murphy
Thank you for a great post!!
FlBarbara, I guess we southern women all have that motherly instinct to look out for others..we are on the same page.
Murphy…YOU can make a difference in so many ways..time, money (if spent well), and most of all compassion for another.
Like Dances said in #13, $20..can go a LOOOONG way.
Our group is feeding 7 families (women and children) right now, on very little in donations.
I take $50, cut coupons (for savings), use the $5 off $50 I have for Publix, and purchase Buy 1 Get 1 Free items. You have NO idea how much you can save doing this. We are feeding 26 people on about $200 a week. I can remember spending that to feed my family of 5 years back, and making daily stops at the store on my way home.
We get bread items donated through a program here called Waste Not Want Not..they recover bread and baked items that would be trashed…and it is good food!
I volunteer at two free bread dist. locations each week, and people are Very Thankful for what we do. I have made friends with 2 older ladies who come, that I take extra food too. I know that if I do not take it they will do without, and they have no one else to help.
It is very sad out in the real world today, and dam* it, once again it is women and children suffering.
Our group works with Hubbard House, Quigley House (both women shelters), Justice Coalition, Victims Advocate, Wounded Warrior Project, and Hug-A-Hero, because they are local and we KNOW where the money we raise and put into these projects go.
Go and read my website..Our Home page and Our Mission page and then you will know that you Can make a difference. Look under more, and go to projects.. Groceries For A Day..is how we support these 7 families, just by people donating as little as a $1 a day, and to you and I it means so little. But with a small group together, it can make a Big difference in many lifes.
Now you can be the ONE to Make a difference!!
I said here about 6 months ago, I had to find someway to give back. I could not change Washington, but I could help change lifes, and this is the avenue I have taken for now.
http://www.womenhelpingwomencmit.com/index.html
You are that WOMAN…We All Are or We would not be here..on Your Blog!!
clcpuma 12.15.09 at 5:23 pm
Just sharing, was wondering did any other Puma recieve this email from the DSCC?
Dear —-
Think GOP obstruction is bad now? Just imagine what Washington would look like if a bunch of new senators – inspired by Sarah Palin and the tea party crowd – took over.
If you think this movement is more circus sideshow than actual threat, you’d be mistaken. Republican candidates are falling all over each other to get Palin’s endorsement, and the tea party movement is responding. Money is pouring in.
Either we match the passion and activism of these new forces in the Republican Party, or they’ll be choosing who’s sitting in the Senate, steering our country’s course. If we don’t match them dollar-for-dollar, we will lose Senate seats in 2010. And the loss of even one or two would flip crucial votes in their favor and doom President Obama’s agenda.
Click here to make a donation of $5 or more to the DSCC and receive a coupon code worth 20% off items in the DSCC Store. The DSCC must raise $500,000 by Dec. 31 to defend our Democratic majority in 2010. Every dollar you give will be matched, doubling its impact. Progress depends on your donation.
In case you doubt the seriousness of this situation, here are a couple of examples:
Republican Senate candidates, including Mark Kirk of Illinois, are actively seeking Sarah Palin’s endorsement and they are disavowing their own past positions, contorting themselves to appeal to the new Sarah Palin Republicans. They know that if they receive her blessing, the money will follow.
The leading GOP Senate candidate in Connecticut, Rob Simmons, has been running around the state with a tea bag hanging from his rearview mirror, and he carries a copy of the United States Constitution with a tea bag attached. Such tactics might seem silly. But they’re working.
These are not fringe candidates – but they are increasingly pandering to the fringe to curry support. If they win, they will be doing the bidding of Sarah Palin, Rush Limbaugh, Glenn Beck and their legions of fans. The best chance we’ve had in generations to make positive change will have ended.
Donate to the DSCC. Every dollar you give will help build the grassroots organizations we need to support our incumbents, challenge ridiculous attacks and get each and every Democrat to the polls. It’s the kind of effort we need to keep America moving in the right direction.
Click here to make a donation of $5 or more to the DSCC and receive a coupon code worth 20% off items in the DSCC Store. The DSCC must raise $500,000 by Dec. 31 to defend our Democratic majority in 2010. Every dollar you give will be matched, doubling its impact. Progress depends on your donation.
I know better than most what these Republicans are capable of – and the high cost of not taking immediate action. It’s not too late to stop them from derailing the President’s agenda. But we need your help – and today is not a moment too soon.
Sincerely, Sen. John Kerry
Do you think they are running scared or just trying to get $$$$$?
FLBarbara 12.15.09 at 5:42 pm
Murphy,
I think everyone who answered your questions was right on. While I put the focus on shelters, there is a need especially today outside the shelters..
She who needs is not limited to those in a shelter. She lives in your neighborhood, she is the young girl she is the elderly woman alone…. trying to survive alone. She is the single mother struggling to support her family. She is the one down and out but too proud too embarrassed to ask for help.
Women in need are all around us. If we are truly to be women helping women and the shelter visits seem uncomfortable then the woman who lives down the block may welcome a “friend” into her life.
Also….the Church still remains the number one place where people in need of immediate relief go to. You can drop off non perishable foods as well as clothing. Also churches now hand out the super market gift cards . A 20.00 gift card dropped off at your local church will go to someone who knocks on the door. Trust me when I say the door gets knocked on a lot.
School supplies are needed also.
And more importantly to those of you who write beautifully as CJK said. A letter a poem to a woman
It’s priceless. Encouragement that can be mailed do not think for one minute you can’t change a life with a word of encouragement..
A child in a place such as Children in Distress receiving a letter from someone who survived child abuse would mean there is HOPE when you say I have been where you are and I survived. Again mailed.
I think as Dances said one very small act of kindness adds up and you may never know who you made smile or encouraged but trust me when I say it will be paid forward in one form or another.
I know for a fact, She will.
CJK 12.15.09 at 5:46 pm
DancesWithPumas 12.15.09 at 5:14 pm
The links in my comment #25 are to what appeared to be NYT photos via the link in murphy’s comment #8. They all appeared on my screen as static photos. Here’s the link from murphys’s comment #8. http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2009/08/26/magazine/20090826-a-womens-world-reader-photos.html
CJK 12.15.09 at 5:52 pm
FLBarbara 12.15.09 at 5:42 pm
FLBarbara, you are beautiful and your acts and words of loving kindness are their own form of poetry. I only wish for the sake of all girls and women everywhere that there were more people like you and Murphy in this world!
theamericanway 12.15.09 at 5:54 pm
clcpuma: I received a different mailing from DSCC over Kerry’s signature. However, today’s mail brought a request from DCCC by Patrick Kennedy WITH a special note from San Fran Nan. Patrick says the Republican Party is raising millions of dollars from special interest contributors with the sole purpose of retaking the majority in Congress next November. And he continues with “your immediate support is urgently needed today”.
Nan’s note is more specific: says we need to rush generous contribution to support DCCC Emergency Health Care Response Fund today. Sounding scared to me.
Listen to this sentence of Nan’s: This landmark legislation … contains a strong public option, protects Medicare and holds powerful insurance companies accountable….We are in a historic moment. Don’t hold back. Get involved. Support the DCCC right now.
FLBarbara 12.15.09 at 6:05 pm
Deb55
Thank you so very much for all you do.
Women helping women and every woman out there needs and angel for those times…an you and Pumas are those angels.
Alice Rodham Puma 12.15.09 at 6:15 pm
hey PUMAs!
Almost the holidays then! I am so looking forward to the break this year, aren’t you?
Great to see you all still fighting the good fight! Keep on rocking PUMAs.
I don’t know if you have had the chance to see and bookmark the blog over at miscellani.org which Victoria and Kathryn – friends of ours and yours set up, they have a new post up today which you might find interesting. It is part of a series called “The War President”
http://www.miscellani.org/blog/2009/12/cast.obama.out/
Check it out, and also see the post And The War President Drones On
Anyway, best wishes of the season to you PUMAs. Lots of love from Alice.
Shadowfax 12.15.09 at 6:33 pm
This boy is sooooo darn cute!!!
Ukulele-playing kid becomes Web hit
http://m.www.yahoo.com/?r0=1260919878
Shadowfax 12.15.09 at 6:46 pm
For any of you that don’t recognize the song that little boy was singing, here it is…
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=irSklXqsXBo
Deb55 12.15.09 at 6:53 pm
FLBarbara 12.15.09 at 6:05 pm
Thank You for bring this to everyones attention!
We all live our lifes and forget that so many lifes have been affected by what has happened in this County..so many are really losing any Hope of just surviving day to day life.
I went to buy a Christmas tree last week, and left without one. I just could not spend that $65/$70 on a tree when I knew that I could use that money to feed someone, or pay a families electric bill.
So, I had my son go out and cut me down a little Oak tree, decorated it with tie ribbons, popcorn strings, and fake apples…and now I have a Charlie Brown Christmas Tree…for Free! and that money can do some good.
I hope everyone remembers that giving means giving to those that Need, not just because they want. It is a much better feeling when you see a smile on their face or a tear in their eye because you have made their life a little better, if just for the day.
CJK 12.15.09 at 7:10 pm
Deb55 12.15.09 at 5:18 pm
Deb, thank you for all you’re doing. Your compassion, enthusiasm and giving/helpful spirit can’t help but light the way forward for all of us, even those of us who may sometimes feel like just giving up.
RememberNovember 12.15.09 at 7:50 pm
On C-Span – Senators Kay Bailey Hutchison (and Thune) are introducing an amendment to the Health Care Bill in the Senate to prevent the collection of higher taxes beginning three WEEKS from today, beginning in the New Year. The implementation of the Bill will not occur for four years – 2014. She points out that beginning three weeks from today, drug companies will have to pay increased taxes (she gave the numbers – $ 22 billion) – guess what? – drugs will go up in cost (prescription drugs, aspirin, etc.) At the same time taxes on medical device companies ($19 billion) – hearing aids, etc. will also increase in cost; and insurance companies will be taxed ($60 billion)- result? Premiums will increase – that’s about $100 billion that will be passed on to the consumer. 2013, those with really good coverage (cadillac coverage, high premium) – those people will get a 40% tax on that benefit.
She points out that three Congressional elections will occur before implementation. (Who knows what might happen in the intervening time
)
She points out a number of other cost increases that i cannot remember – she gave one of the best explanations of the financial implications of this Bill that I have heard.
“You can start paying for a new house next year but you can’t move in for four years – it might get struck by lightning, fall apart – who knows what in the intervening time but you have to start paying for it now”
freddiebrown 12.15.09 at 7:52 pm
Barbara FL – I am also trying to see about helping the woman outside of the shelters..the ones who have not yet seen the light or the one who is still mentally held captive by her opressor – not being able to break away from a dangerous situation. What do you do or say to a girl / woman who is beaten up and still goes back wanting to give the man/animal another chance and who says he is not always like that… only beats her up once a while /week/month… not all the time. It is easy to give help when help is wanted but you do hear of women sticking by their abusers because of guilt or after the beating sweet talk.
P/S: My employee, a really nice pretty girl, tasered her guy friend when he turned on his 18 year old girlfriend when they were visiting. She called the cops and he is now in jail for driving off when the cops told him to get out of his car. Now his girlfriend is feeling so bad that he is in jail instead of getting the hell out before he comes out…I am trying to be the “invisible” helper here.
normapapuma 12.15.09 at 7:56 pm
#30
Trying to get money. But, I plan to send support to SarahPac, so maybe a lot of others are doing the same. Too many Republicans are corrupt and sellouts, so I won’t support the Party directly. Sarah? You betcha!
normapapuma 12.15.09 at 7:59 pm
#41 RememberNovember
It’s totally frustrating that these #@&%%$!=*! are shoving this down our throats!
scarlet 12.15.09 at 8:07 pm
Coming to your house
‘Smart’ Electric Utility Meters, Intended to Create Savings, Instead Prompt Revolt
WASHINGTON — Millions of households across America are taking a first step into the world of the “smart grid,” as their power companies install meters that can tell them how much electricity they are using hour by hour — and sometimes, appliance by appliance. But not everyone is happy about it.
Some consumers argue that the meters are logging far more kilowatt hours than they believe they are using. And many find it unfair that they will begin to pay immediately for the new meters through higher rates, when the promised savings could be years away.
Pacific Gas & Electric, which distributes power to Northern and Central California, has so far installed four million meters in households and businesses and plans to install six million more within the next three years. The meters cost the utility roughly $220 apiece, including installation.
Elizabeth Keogh, a retired social worker in Bakersfield, Calif., who describes herself as “a bit chintzy,” has created a spreadsheet with 26 years of electric bills for her modest house. She decided that her new meter was running too fast.
Ms. Keogh reported to the utility that the meter recorded 646 kilowatt-hours in July, for which she paid $66.50; last year it was 474 kilowatt-hours, or $43.37.
Scores of electric customers with similar complaints have turned out at similar hearings. At one in Fresno, Calif., Leo Margosian, a retired investigator, testified that the new meter logged the consumption of his two-bedroom townhouse at 791 kilowatt-hours in July, up from 236 a year earlier. And he had recently insulated his attic and installed new windows, Mr. Margosian said.
To reduce their bills, customers could cut back at pricey peak times and shift some activities, like running a clothes dryer or a vacuum cleaner, to off-peak periods. Utilities will then have lower costs, the argument goes, because the grid will need fewer power plants as demand levels out.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/12/14/us/14meters.html?
_r=2&utm_source=Newsletter&utm_medium=Email&utm_campaign=Morning%2BBell&partner=rss&emc=rss
So, in order to lower electric bills, we will have to change our lifestyle – like doing laundry in the middle of the night. Oh, wait, if everyone does that then you are not saving anything. I think we are just screwed.
stoney42 12.15.09 at 8:14 pm
Dances #1
Hoover. Damn! Funny.
FLBarbara 12.15.09 at 8:48 pm
Freddie,
Sorry I am out.
One of the hardest rescues is someone who either does not want to be rescued or someone who doesn’t believe they need to be rescued.
It very complicated to answer all of the reasons why women stay with their abusers, from support to they just believe it normal behavior, raised in a family where it is was the norm and perhaps this girl is from a abusive background herself.
My experience with a rescue like this girl has been having the victim speak to a women who has been abused, the girl needs to hear the signs of abuse and what those signs mean. Love doesn’t hurt.
The domestic violent hot line has women to speak to her. Shelia07 may also offer you some advice and of course I would be more than happy to speak with her Dances will give you(please Dances) my email and I will send you my phone number.
I think the fact that you have taken her under your loving wing will encourage her at some point to seek the help she does need. But it is a pattern she will repeat, keep selecting the abuser until she gets professional help.
CJK 12.15.09 at 9:08 pm
Hi RemVem! That’s great info from C-Span re the proposed amendment from Hutchinson and Thune to prevent any new taxes from beginning until the hc plan’s actually implemented in 2012 (if it passes). Sounds like Hutchinson and Thune may be the only two in the Senate who actually understand the financial ramifications of this horrific hc bill. Is there a transcript of their remarks? Thanks!
freddiebrown 12.15.09 at 9:17 pm
Barbara FL – That is what I believe as well, that you have to realise that you have a problem before you can solve the problem. This girl is looking for a job to pay her rent since her boyfriend is in jail and she has no job. I was asked if I have any work for her. Of course I do but I think better than that, I will pay her $8.50 an hour to volunteer for baby sitting at a Womens Shelter. It may open up her eyes to what abuse really is and at the same time earn some money to stand on her own and regain self respect somehow. Got to do something different to get their attention and realise that they too, are part of the problem.
FLBarbara 12.15.09 at 9:26 pm
Freddie
That is a great idea, Bless you, have her be around women to tell her where it lands you. Alone in a shelter.
I am finding the victims of abuse are young girls not so much older women and I am also finding girls are becoming more violent themselves.
We have a crisis that really needs to be addressed.
We are raising boys who abuse and girls who believe it is acceptable.
I believe that girls like Rhianna who have been abused need to speak up and say it is not acceptable to be violent or accept violence as a way of life. But the fact is we are raising violent children and I while I have my suspicions I do not know how to appeal to them.
motherearth 12.15.09 at 9:46 pm
NANCY PELOSI PERSON OF THE YEAR. Can someone please tell me I’m dreaming, ussually having a nightmare. I just hear Hannity mentioned that time magazine has NP as a candidate for Person of the Year. FOR WHAT??????????
RememberNovember 12.15.09 at 9:52 pm
Hi CJK!! The plan is set to be implemented in 2014 not 2012 but the taxes are set tio take effect in 2010 (in 3 weeks). Couldn’t find any transcripts and C-span does not have anything up yet but I did find 2 U-tube videos of today’s senate session (at least it sounded like today’s session) – the first is short (5 min) the second is a longer version.
Senator Hutchison Discusses Her Motion to the Senate Health Care Bill
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SwK4E8Vrbak&feature=channel
Senator Hutchison Health Care Colloquy
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ji-Zb92dSbc&feature=channel
CJK 12.15.09 at 10:10 pm
RememberNovember 12.15.09 at 9:52 pm
Thanks, RemVem! (And thanks for correcting the implementation year.)
Will check out the videos.
boogieman7167 12.15.09 at 10:17 pm
wow murphy that post hurts just thinking about it.
gives a whole new meaning to ” hell hath no fury like a woman scorned”"
murphy 12.15.09 at 10:27 pm
Flbarb, cjk, freddie, puma-sf, deb55, sheila7, and dances (et al),
thank you for the advice and guidance. I admire all of you. I’m still afraid and tentative, but now I know that fear and indecision are NO EXCUSE!
I need to find out more about the coupon thing. HP knows about that — maybe we can work on that together.
freddiebrown 12.15.09 at 10:44 pm
Murphy,,, It is understandable to be tentative as sometimes it is not in our comfort zone. Me either so I do what is comfortable for me – even if it is helping through someone else. A business acquaintence in Hong Kong always gathers a few friends to buy school supplies and locate schools to give to the kids directly. She is far from rich or able… just wanting to do good. So this year, they get a new friend in me. Sure, it is good also to help in USA but the poorest in US still have a lot…compared to poor in other countries. However I prefer to help old people…I think it is horrible to be old,homeless and alone. There are so many charities geared towards children…you don’t often hear of the really old getting help. But I too, have no idea where to go to help such a group of people.
goofsmom 12.15.09 at 10:45 pm
Murphy,
You have had me thinking. I can’t do money for charities… sigh, but I can crochet and knit. I was searching for local charities that I could donate afghans to, I’m guess I’m being to picky but I would want them to only go to women and children in abuse shelters.
Have you thought about donating books and clothes your children have grown out of that are still in good shape?
The hard part is finding an organization that only works with the Abuse shelters.
CASPER CAT… do you know of any in our area?
FLBarbara and HPBoston… do you know how to find such organizations?
goofsmom 12.15.09 at 10:48 pm
I have scrap yarn from previous crochet projects, so I don’t have to buy anything… just don’t know how to connect with those in need.
freddiebrown,
You could try seaching Charities for Seniors in SD. Hopefully you will have more luck than I did.
freddiebrown 12.15.09 at 11:16 pm
I walked into a military exchange last year and asked to speak to the person in charge.. they took me to this woman who was in a nice office and have some fancy name plate on her desk… I told her I wanted permission to hand out handbags and gift items to our service men for their wives/mothers/girlfriends/daughters since they don’t have much money to spend during Christmas. I told her it would be very low key so she didn’t have to do anything. She denied the request – for some stupid nonsensical reason. More like she didn’t know what to do and for lack of doing anything out of the ordinary out of her day, just said it was not possible. I gave her a piece of my mind about being an obstruction to charity and she should step out of her comfort zone yada yada…I could have asked to speak to her supervisor but I think she was in charge…
Casper Cat 12.15.09 at 11:17 pm
Happy Holidays Pumas… Just getting ready for dinner and wanted to check in and read the blog…. I have to tell you my heart is helping the Animals….. indirectly it helps the people too…. I have spent soooooooooo many years helping people… And, to be honest… Helping the animals in need (for me) is my mission in life….
I have open accounts all over the County of Riverside to help with Spay/Neutering or medical care or whatever…. and, the office staff knows when to call me and I have never said no……. I do believe we all have a place on this big stage of life…. And, mine is with the animals….. 
Yes, I have contributed to the Casa House here that helps homeless women who are addicted to drugs or booze to get sober and rebuild their families and lives…..The last donation was around $10,000.00…. Then, I said enough…. and now, I only contribute to helping people with their animals and their care…. Oh, goofsmom go to this site http://www.riversideca.gov/neighborhoods/homeless.asp Contact Don Smith 951-826-5615… He works for the City of Riv. and he can help you with getting whatever to women only…. he is very nice… I also, provide food for the companion animals of Seniors on the ‘Meals on wheels’ program…. I do think we all need to find a balance… And, in my City and County there is NO Reason for anyone to be homeless or sleeping in the cold… We are one of the few Cities/Counties who really focus on the homeless… And, yes alot of them do not want to follow the rules and have it their own way…. Well, that is not an option…. It doesn’t matter whether it is domestic violence or some other situation that put a person on the streets…. I know our District Attornery’s office works and provides alot for those who want it…. And, if they refuse…. Well, not much can be done…. Remember, the old saying… ‘you can lead a horse to water…. but, you cannot make them drink’….. Just sharing my experience and what I think…. 
CJK 12.15.09 at 11:21 pm
freddiebrown 12.15.09 at 10:44 pm
Freddie, I admire and appreciate your quest to help old people. As to where to go to help them, maybe you could check with nursing care facilities in your area. Many elderly people live full-time in such facilities and sadly, there are some who have few, if any, visitors. Especially at this time of year, I would think just a simple visit would mean so much to them. If you can, you might take Christmas stockings filled with simple gifts and goodies, or just Christmas cards with good wishes. The nursing facilities can tell you what types of small gifts, goodies are appropriate and whether their facilities permit such drop-in visits from volunteers. Just a thought…
goofsmom 12.15.09 at 11:26 pm
(((((Casper Cat)))))
Thank you for the info and suggestions. I’ll give him a call tomorrow. It’s not much but it is a small thing I can do right now. Funds are tight but scrap yarn is everywhere in my house, so some good can come from it.
FLBarbara 12.15.09 at 11:32 pm
Murphy
As always you have planted seeds with your words. Todays words are seeds that will grow.I know there are many who have read what you had to say and are thinking of ways to give.
I personally as CJK said would love to see you and those other gifted PUMAs compose poems to HER
I really believe that would be an inspiring gift to another woman.
Just a thought.
goofsmom 12.15.09 at 11:33 pm
CJK,
#61 – excellent idea… I used to go sing with a group of friends at nursing homes.
Freddie,
They might let you take Fred to visit too.
DancesWithPumas 12.15.09 at 11:34 pm
CJK 12.15.09 at 5:46 pm
The links in my comment #25 are to what appeared to be NYT photos via the link in murphy’s comment #8. They all appeared on my screen as static photos. Here’s the link from murphys’s comment #8. http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2009/08/26/magazine/20090826-a-womens-world-reader-photos.html
——————-
Try copying one of the static photos. The montage was made in Flash, unless one has the original .fla or swf file, they can’t be copied. The Flash application makes movies… that may or may not include static images.
anyhoooo, how about them Chargers?!
CJK 12.15.09 at 11:37 pm
freddiebrown 12.15.09 at 11:16 pm
Just received this via e-mail. It’s a possible way to help our women and men in uniform this Christmas. A pre-paid calling card is $10 and gives each recipient 30 minutes of call time from Iraq, Afghanistan or Kuwait to the United States.
https://www.newsmaxstore.com/contribute/troops/christmas09.cfm?s=al&promo_code=9382-1
CJK 12.15.09 at 11:43 pm
DancesWithPumas 12.15.09 at 11:34 pm
I was just trying to help Murphy out, as she suggested in her comment #8, which was directed toward any PUMA who might have some time today. Murphy said she wasn’t happy with the ‘Hoover’ art up top, and I had some time, so I went through the NYT photos at her link to try to find one that might fit with Murphy’s theme for this thread. I’m not techie, so I don’t know from Flash movies. I will try copying one of the photos (away from the blog) and see what happens.
CJK 12.15.09 at 11:45 pm
goofsmom 12.15.09 at 11:33 pm
Goofs, Freddie — I think it would be wonderful if freddie and Fred could visit some nursing care facilities together. That would put lots of lovely smiles on lots of beautiful elderly faces this Christmas!
goofsmom 12.15.09 at 11:50 pm
CJK,
That’s what I was thinking.
CJK 12.15.09 at 11:51 pm
FLBarbara 12.15.09 at 11:32 pm
FLBarbara, I would love to see Murphy write a Christmas poem to all the girls and women struggling to be safe, equal and free in this dangerous world. I wonder whether Skipper or Junior might provide some inspiring words and/or artwork that might turn the Christmas poem into beautiful Christmas cards that could be sent or delivered to shelters and other facilities where people need the light of hope.
FLBarbara 12.15.09 at 11:55 pm
Goofsmom
LOL
I took my mom today to buy MORE wool she is part of her church who knits afghans all year long. They take them to the Kings point veterans hospital and at Christmas they go to the local nursing home and give each resident a afghan. They also knit baby blankets for the shelter.my mom is 82 and she is always knitting LOL
.They also bake cookies for Christmas and put them in a tin and deliver them with a pointsetta to those who are on the list of those who are confined to home
.
Casper,
One of the women I know takes her pets to visit in the nursing home.the residents love playing and petting them.
Notyoursweetie 12.15.09 at 11:58 pm
For your enjoyment, from B0botland
http://edgeoforever.wordpress.com/2009/12/15/b0bots-are-pissed-they-found-out-there-wasnt-any-multi-dimensional-chess/
goofsmom 12.16.09 at 12:03 am
FL Barbara,
Yep, I sound like your mom. I used to knit and crochet afghans even when I didn’t have someone to give them to. Somehow or another I would always find someone who would need one.
FLBarbara 12.16.09 at 12:10 am
CJK
Yes poems are a beautiful gift because they are from the heart.
Yes Freddie
They love pets in a nursing home. Just call them.
Dances
Are you dancing on the table tonight?
FLBarbara 12.16.09 at 12:17 am
Goofs
My mom has tried to teach me but I can’t get the hang of it. although I used to do the counted cross stitch, been along time for that.
Another thing for nursing homes are those talking books or someone to read to them.
CJK 12.16.09 at 12:20 am
Notyoursweetie 12.15.09 at 11:58 pm
Awesome post, Notyoursweetie! Thanks for sharing that. Obots spitting out the Kool-Aid big time, like a bunch of kids upon finding out they’re not getting that promised free trip to Disneyland after all.
goofsmom 12.16.09 at 12:22 am
FLBarbara,
#75 – My grandmother taught me to. I also do counted cross stitch… need to use my glasses for that though…
Deb55 12.16.09 at 12:26 am
Murphy,
I don’t have a lot financially to give anymore, and giving has little to do with money. I do what I can, and do without to do a little more, for others with less…for me that is right.
In March 2006 my home burnt down, and my son and I were left with nothing but the clothes on our back, life changed for me that day…in many ways.
I learned that all those..Things..that I had, really meant nothing, they were just that..Things. It was the compassion and support that got me through the hardest year in my life.
My son was in an auto accident that same year in Sept and was not expected to live for months. Money could not fix neither, but without support of other’s, I can say for sure, I would not be typing this tonight.
Today, I still use the same furniture given to me..many of the clothes..right down to dishes. They mean more to me, than someone giving me $10,000 to go and buy new.
Why, because people cared enough to HELP, when I saw my world crash before my eyes.
I learn that you don’t need that new lease car every year, or those $150 sheets..Targets $39.99 are just as good. I don’t take trips anymore, only those to visit family and friends. And eating out, is not the Dinner Theater, it is McDonalds or maybe Olive Garden. Life for me Really has different meaning now.
And you have helped. When you bought the Domino’s cards..that $50 was matched by a woman business owner, so $100 went to the Somer reward fund in your name…you helped another woman, another mother.. hopefully one day find peace.
You give to us here everyday, so don’t sell yourself short. Giving comes in many different ways!
Our past moves us into our future, sometimes in strange way!
Night…
CJK 12.16.09 at 12:28 am
Howard Dean: “Kill the Senate Bill”
http://theplumline.whorunsgov.com/health-care/howard-dean-kill-the-senate-bill/
There’s a link in the article to the full Vermont Public Radio interview.
goofsmom 12.16.09 at 12:38 am
(((((Deb55)))))
Thank you for sharing your story. Sometimes life humbles us so we can remember what is truly important in life.
FLBarbara 12.16.09 at 12:39 am
(((DEB)))
Blessings on your journey
Goodnight
Sweet dreams
CJK 12.16.09 at 12:45 am
Deb55 12.16.09 at 12:26 am
“Our past moves us into our future, sometimes in strange way!”
So very true, Deb. Beautifully said.
Deb55 12.16.09 at 12:50 am
Freddie.
They hit the nail on the head!!! If you want to do something to bring a smile to those in a nursing home.
TAKE FRED!!!!
Before my grandmother passed away my dad took Baby (thier dog), 3 days a week, and you could not believe how HAPPY that made them.
She would go room to room and visit each and everyone on the floor, and Fred he is SO Cute….TAKE FRED!!!!!
freddiebrown 12.16.09 at 12:55 am
So many wonderful Pumas doing so many care full things – efforts, donations, prayers – whatever is given, somewhere it is appreciated. I would love to take Fred except Fred is very protective – he just looks angelic. I think it would be great to sponsor a small pet to a nursing home and take care of all the “bills” associated with it like CasperCat. Then they would have a house pet they can have round the clock.. something to check out. I think it is sad that old people are sometimes treated like “has beens” and are of little consequence. Great ideas everyone.. I just declared at home that we are not having a tree or poinsettias and spending the money where it is needed.
– HIGH 5 to everyone for all your care doings…
goofsmom 12.16.09 at 1:03 am
freddiebrown,
HIGH 5 to you too!
freddiebrown 12.16.09 at 1:06 am
CJK – Thanks for the link to purchase prepaid phone cards for our soldiers. Just bought 25 of them.
Deb55 12.16.09 at 1:11 am
freddiebrown 12.16.09 at 12:55 am
“I just declared at home that we are not having a tree or poinsettias and spending the money where it is needed.”
What a great gift for Christmas..your New Year will be blessed!
Women are the True Hope for humanity!! ((((PUMAS))))
Night for real…up in 5 hrs.
Puma-SF 12.16.09 at 1:19 am
Hillary supporters know that universal health care died in Denver in 2008. What is going on now is a mere masquerade, a charade in the age of fake to bamboozle the electorate.
Examples of the deceit and boobery abound – Roland Burris won’t vote for legislation that does not include a public option but the public option is dead; the Big Blog Boys pretend it is news that the Dimocrats are involved in a “murder/suicide” crime of historic proportions. We wrote about the Democratic suicide in real time, as it was happening – in August 2008, in Denver, at the convention.
http://www.hillaryis44.org/2009/12/15/hillary-clinton-versus-sarah-palin-part-ii/
Deb55 12.16.09 at 1:24 am
freddiebrown 12.16.09 at 1:06 am
Thank You!! We just sent 400+ over in Christmas “Shoe Boxes”.
We are working a new project..Hug-A-Hero..pillow dolls, for the children of our men and women over seas…I love this one!
Maybe later if you are into supporting the military.
http://www.womenhelpingwomencmit.com/action.html
goofsmom 12.16.09 at 1:25 am
Nighty-night Deb 55 and FL Barbara… sweet puma dreams…
DancesWithPumas 12.16.09 at 1:30 am
CJK 12.15.09 at 11:43 pm
DancesWithPumas 12.15.09 at 11:34 pm
I was just trying to help Murphy out
——————
As was I by letting her know she couldn’t copy static images from a flash movie.
Fini.
CJK 12.16.09 at 1:53 am
freddiebrown 12.16.09 at 1:06 am
You’re most welcome, Freddie! Thank you for that wonderful gift to the brave American women and men fighting for the cause of freedom.
sheila7 12.16.09 at 9:34 am
FreddieBrown,
Just wanted to tell you two things that I do for the elderly that aren’t terribly time consuming but go a long way.
1. I volunteer at a nursing home. I went and asked the volunteer coordinator to match me up with someone. She matched me up with a great lady. She is 85,still has her wits about her but her Parkinsons keeps her from physically doing a lot of things. It is important to her to still send cards to her relatives and friends for their birthdays and Christmas. So, I go up there and she tells me what to write and I write her cards for her and get them mailed out. It doesn’t take much of my time but it means the world to her. She really opened up to me and we are friends now. She even invited me to her birthday party.
2. I volunteer with the University I go to. They have a thing called Campus Kitchens. I go one morning a week and deliver meals to low income elderly. They really appreciate the food and they love to chat for a few minutes.
So, I know from experience that a little goes a long way. I admire that you feel the way you do about our older folks. I wish more people did.
murphy 12.16.09 at 9:46 am
le roi est mort posted,
take it upstairs!
and good morning!
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