IS MOLLY A WOW? www.playingforothers.org.

PERSONAL

I awoke this morning at 7:45am and awoke to a 3 after 9+hrs of sleep. I took my am pills and put out my flag with the yellow ribbon on the flag pole holder. It is a sunny 40+ degrees. I then came in to get a couple lazy boy massages.
The changes begin today, if you have a favorite message from a ”section” you are going to have to research the blog. I had been saving each one in a file folder her on my computer and it warned me of the fact that my capacity was running low so I have cleared out that folder to increase my capacity. I did get golfing yesterday afternoon at Gresham, as it is a pretty flat course and I had two “Wally Catchers”, thanks Gib and Mike. I never fell once, however I did do a driveway dance for Gib once but didn't land on my face. It stayed dry for us but there were a few puddles. Gib is also now an official Wally catcher and he did let me use his driver and three wood a few times, and his flex shaft clubs sure felt good in my hands. I did forget to take my pills with me but I caught them up when I got home and the 2 Carolans and Coffees were strictly for medicinal purposes.

Don't forget, we need to fix that hole in OUR health care coverage, and I hope if you are a 290 member, you will help. The hole is, I am not eligible for Medicare until 2 years after the beginning of my S.S. Disability determination, which is November 2007. With Medicare I believe I would be eligible for a handicap accessible bath, my Kaiser coverage has provided me a contraption to help put my socks on and a handicap, bath-shower chair, similar to a plastic patio chair. While I can still raise my leg over the side of the bath I would really like a bath-shower designed for a person with a handicap. When I explained this to my business manager he advised me to write an appeal letter to the trust and they would review my situation and maybe they could help through the self funded plan. I wrote the letter and my request was turned down by the “committee”. (FYVM)

I did get a letter from the trust. They suggested I go back to request help from Kaiser, my provider; or contact the M.S. Society, they may have a program to help with a bathroom remodel. My 2 years on S.S. Disability will be in November so if I make it to the Mountain for a one night stay, with a handicap bath I can get at least one good bath/shower before they turn me down. Maybe another meeting with Merril Schnieder could be called for. Today I will be contacting ATPA to see what I should be doing to prepare for “Medicare.”
I know it was a coincidence, but I did receive an email donation request from M.S. For research dollars and I sent them $25.00 just before I received the denial letter from the trust.

My blog, has attracted both a google and bing spider; spiders that like recipes. I can't really blame them, as I have sampled most all of Judi's recipes, I think, and Judi asked me to check out the front pages of google and bing and she MADE THE FRONT PAGE! Judi has been working hard on her redesigned sales page, so this will be a regular notice. Join me in checking it out, if you would.

bestmeringuerecipes.com

I would still ask everyone to continue the prayers that can. As I said in my original email, I AM living proof of good results. And as I am back to driving, and not just golf balls; all those OTHER drivers will need those prayers.

I do believe that those prayers helped my good friend Dianna get to spend her “last” Christmas with her brand new Granddaughter and she is now with husband Mike sharing all her joy's of the last 20+ years, without him. And now that she is with him, and based on my short time with her, I know she has earned a special place in heaven. The Obit in last Fridays Labor Press for Dianna was very well done, thanks Michael.

My daily prayer, is to Mary Mother of God…..”O Most Blessed Mother, heart of love, heart of mercy, ever listening, caring, consoling, hear OUR prayer. As your children we implore your intercession with Jesus your Son. Receive with understanding and compassion the petitions we place before you today, especially for my dear friend Dianna's family and friends and all in need. We are comforted in knowing your heart is ever open to those who ask for your prayer. We trust to your care and intercession, those whom we love and who are sick or lonely or hurting. Help ALL of us, to bear our burdens in this life until we may share eternal life and peace with God forever, Amen.”

After seeing Judy O'Connor operate at her last Labor Day picnic, both she and Tony will be missed. I am really looking forward to her celebration Saturday night. I understand they are moving to Montana, Billings, I think; Maybe they can help with getting Senator Tester to be the SENIOR SENATOR FROM MONTANA!

While I did see Mick M. at the picnic, I still think think that Congressman Wu should have been there. I did also see Pete Hackett and told him of my challenge and while they have 10's of Millions of dollars and a decade, plus or minus, invested they are not giving up. I just wish Congressman Wu would reconsider his stance on that “Private Investment” recovery project in Astoria. I have challenged him, and any Democrat goingto the “Summit” to locate ANY of the current natural gas pipelines in the state without a map that showed their location. A challenge still not taken.....Yet any way. It sure does seem like some people have a bad case of “I got Mine”.
I did get another reminder to sign-up for the Democrats Oregon Summit, to be held in Bend again this year. Judi and I will not be making it this year, but I'm sure it will be well attended. My best memory of the Summit was the one that had Joe Wilson (not the S. C. Wilson) discussing Bush outing his wife, Valerie Plame Wilson.

I will now extend this challenge to ALL Democrats that are attending. Tell me you noticed on the trip to Bend, from wherever you are traveling from, those ugly gas pipeline gouges in the land anywhere! If you find one maybe you would even send me a picture.
When I was at one of Brents coffee's one person there expressed concern because that LNG stuff is sooo dangerous. I'm thinking, if it was sooo dangerous they would not have those access stations at almost every gas station and they would ban gas barbeque's. Especially in a state that still allows smoking in public, at least so far.

Two of the teammates I had in the BULL SESSION golf tourney, who happened to be from Boston, were very familiar with the Mohegan (sp?) Sun Casino back east and the fact it is doing a BILLION dollar expansion, renovation, that is also putting lots of workers to work and It isn't using taxpayer dollars to do it either. By the way, are they (the tribe) not a partner in the proposed project over in Clark County?

I know I have been repeating things, maybe too much, on my blog; but some of this stuff I need to be reminded of and some of this stuff others need to be reminded of, and some things are just cathartic for me, but after a year maybe I should clear things off and start over. I think I will clear most everything the first of the month, that obviously did not happen.

LDN REPORT

This is my attempt to keep track of my experiences with my LDN treatment for my Neurologist and his RN. So far with the 4.5mg I think I'm noticeably better. I know I wouldn't have been able to attempt the THE BULL SESSION WIN, or even the golf since nine weeks ago, and I hadn't been to a union meeting in months, but I am sure looking forward to this months retiree and regular meetings.
I am experiencing better days, even since I started the new 3mg pill and now that I'm doing the new dosage I am seeing a marked change, even when I sometimes forget to take it. I did refill it the other day (30 days worth), I'm still not sure why, but I have to get the prescription filled at Safeway and it costs $50.00 a month.
My regular excursions out do not seem to be too tiering, and my lazyboy is as good as my oxycodone, most of the time.
My last appointment with my NCA he was extremely impressed. He did do his adjustments and I hope continues to notice my improvements. I haven't tried his neck traction device but I still managed 18 holes of golf and I do feel like I walked a mile or more at the BULL. He also commented on my “gait” and mobility. I have done a lot of walking lately and I do believe this new pill, and his supplements are helping. I did also give his phone number to niece Heidi and I sure hope he can help her as much as he has helped me, but he hasn't heard from her yet.

POLITICAL

I would think both candidates for Governor will be at the Summit, maybe they will notice those nasty pipeline scars in the landscape, if they do, please get me a picture.I have had a few good discussions with one of my local “Small Business” owners at Gloriaz www.gloriazpubgrill.com there on Sunnyside, a great place to stop for anyone. I did listen in to most of Senator Merkley's Health Care “Town Hall” conference call. Based on what I heard, I really think, as a small business owner without health care now, he would have been quite pleased.

I also received the following regarding health care that I would hope you all could support:
Thank you for adding your name at www.AmericaCantWait.com We have only a short period of time to reach the critical mass we'll need to pressure Congress into passing health care reform including a public option this year. We can reach 250,000 signers by Oct. 15th if we work together to gather support. Here's three ways to do it:
Write a personal email to your family, friends, and like-minded co-workers asking them to join the campaign and include this link: www.AmericaCantWait.com
If you're on Facebook, you can auto-post an alert about this on your account by clicking here
If you're on Twitter, please tweet this message (or something in your own words): "Tell Congress to pass healthcare reform with a public option by majority votes: http://bit.ly/RxMmc RT @dfaaction #p2 #hcr" or auto-tweet it by clicking here.
Thank you for everything you're doing to move America forward.
Governor Howard Dean, M.D. AmericaCantWait.com
Thank you, Senator Wyden; for your actions in committee. And you looked and sounded very good on the Big Ed Schultz Show.
One person that was at the last NWOLC board meeting I went to , was a gentleman that is running for a seat on the Metro Board. I have personally worked with him on many issues, and based on what I have seen from my lazy boy observation chair, (Metro Council Meetings are televised and I did watch the start yesterday), he sure is needed there, and I am sure glad I got to have that conversation with the Metro chair and explain why I was supporting him. This candidate's name is Duke Sheppard, and I will do everything and anything I can do to help. (even from my scooter) His appearance at Dianna's celebration Monday also showed me he is a very compassionate man.
Mike; don't forget, while it's not your district, I still want a lawn sign for those constituents heading up the back way to your district.
My own State Representative, Brent Barton did have a good run on the Hero's list, but where was he Labor Day? Getting ready for his State Senate run?

The Health Care Bill debate is still heating up now that “they” are back in session. It is still amazing to me that that “ZERO” Boehner was quoted as saying the only people advocating a public option are in Congress or the White House. I wonder how much of the next few Health insurance increases will be caused by the multi-million dollar anti-Obama health care plan fight?

It almost appears a few democrats want to give those supreme court, anti-Sotomayor, r's a run at my zero list.Based on that report I received from America can't wait, Max Baucus, and Ron Wyden WERE out of the running for the zero list. However, MAX made the ZERO list by excluding the public option from his bill, and Ron definitely, is no longer being considered.

In my remembrances at Dianna's celebration, Brother Lee Roy Worley came to mind and I feel like I've been remiss in not nominating him for my HERO list. After all I do consider him a mentor and very good friend. He impressed me as the Manager of Iron Workers Local 29, as the District Council Representative and then as the Number Two man in the Iron Workers International. And in watching his rise to that lofty position he NEVER forgot about each individual Iron Worker and their needs. Another one that DID ALL HE COULD DO. I put up Lee Roy Worley on my HERO's list. Anyone who knew him, definitely would understand.

I also think you should keep watching Senator Sheldon Whitehouse of Rhode Island he has really impressed me (a candidate for HERO).

THIS WAS MY LATEST ATTEMPT TO COMMUNICATE MY FEELINGS TO THE INSURANCE INDUSTRY AND THE “BLUE DOGS”:

As a customer, with M.S. and good coverage, I am writing to demand that this company agree to the following. Effective immediately:
1. Stop standing between a doctor and a patient when it comes to deciding what care that patient needs. No one will substitute their judgment for the judgment of the patient's physician in deciding if care is medically necessary.
2. Stop denying coverage or raising rates for individuals or businesses based on a pre-existing medical condition, and end arbitrary caps on payments for necessary medical care.
3. Stop any policy or incentive that rewards employees financially or otherwise for denying care and rejecting claims.
4. Stop using any resources - including funds, employees, and facilities - to lobby against and oppose any aspect of the health reform proposals supported by President Obama and being considered by members of the United States Congress, including but not limited to a national public health insurance option available on day one. Senator Wyden, as one of your constituents, with a blog you've said you read, you obviously know my position, please help. Senator Baucus, as someone who's father is in the Butte, Sports Hall of Fame; and whose uncle served many years in the Montana Legislature, I am also asking for your help. I do believe Mike Mansfield would be there for us.

Now that the r's are using the stall; because they need more time to “read” the bill. I am not sure how many people work in a Senators office, but I would assume, one prerequisite would be the ability to read, and a good understanding of the Senators beliefs on issues; not just being a relative of a large donor or knowing which Airports are the “friendliest”! (was that to catty?)

It has struck me, this Hero/Zero list nomination and choosing one is a lot like fishing off the Oregon Coast. While there are some who like BOTTOM FISHING and some bottom dwellers do cook up OK, isn't it more exciting to go Salmon and or Tuna fishing and don't they make for a better feast. Hmmn, just thinking in my holey brain way I guess.

Judi and I have been talking and we are considering putting on a “Deaf Frog Dinner” at the Mehrens Clackamas County estate, after all she is a Culinary Institute Chef and I am considered an excellent host, right? Would you take a chance on it? I guess I better check to see if I need to become a non profit, or political organization. And I should quit putting off connecting to “pay pal”.

Trina's setting up of my Internet program (skype.com) to be able to connect with Daniel, and Christopher directly (and others) and on the video-call I recently had with Daniel, I found out he has been promoted, I think he is a Corporal or Vice General or something: and wasn't it Corporal Radar O'Rieley on the TV series MASH really the one that kept their base running? I understand Chris has some good news to share (should I be saving a date?) and I think it all has been keeping me at 4+.

You would think after nicking our Men and Women in the Guard $65.00 a month for internet access, they could at least provide even a little gas money to their volunteers. HINT,HINT,HINT I Hope Willy reads this and tells Earl. What do the members of Congress get charged for their internet access?
I still don't know yet, if the “soft landing” bill is done but that is one issue I will keep harping on until I am sure.
As near as I can figure, all that needs to be done for the soft landing at the State Level (Legislature) is complete; thank you Rick and Brent; and everyone.

I believe the next brick (pillow) to be placed, is the responsibility of the Federal Government and I believe that it is in the hands of our own Senator Wyden. (a safe place for it right now, I hope) but, as that famous live artist says......GET 'ER DONE. - SOFT LANDING !I watched those upstart House democrats rallying on the capital steps in front of the camera's and they were very firm that “rolling over” for the “Blue Dog” Democrats on health care could lose more than they “gain” in any republican support, hang in there, I'm rooting for you.

OK, what did YOU do for the Guard today. Daniel's wife Trina is helping, with a houseful of kids and a 3? year old recovering from 3rd degree burns, and with Daniel in the Middle East, as I understand it she accompanied the head of the O.N.G. To Fort Lewis to bring one of the soldiers back home, I sure hope they didn't stick her for gas money for the trip.

Still sooooo many cages to rattle and wheels left to squeak remaining, and me with only a three wheel scooter!

By the way; You don't have to be a ”wheel” to get heard, just squeak for a while.

Bring our people home! ( THIS IS AN OFFICIAL SQUEAK ! )

YELLOW RIBBON SECTION

When I relate to anyone the story of our Guard members being charged for internet access; everyone I speak to is as disgusted as I. I quit talking about it at the health care rally as those “professional rallyists” were ready go off on a tear, and we need to get this health care bill done first. I still don't know what the people in Washington D.C. are getting charged for their internet access?

Thanks Gib; for the following.........

Lord, hold our troops in your loving hands
Protect them as they protect us
Bless them and their families for the selfless acts they perform for us in our time of need.
Amen

By the way; I mean no disrespect for putting the yellow ribbon on my flag pole holder, The flag comes in at night but I plan to leave the ribbon there until Daniel comes over to untie the knot.

At the 11th Hour, on the 11th Day, of the 11th Month a cease fire was signed to end the war to end all wars in 1918. How's that worked out so far?

SAVE PUTTS PALACE

Over 50 years ago my uncle “Putt” built a cabin at Georgetown Lake in Montana, (Putts Palace). His cabin at the lake and many others like it developed recreational areas for the use of just regular citizens. And while doing this they protected the environment for future generations.He was not a RADICAL ENVROMENTALIST, he was just a mechanic, a Pearl Harbor Survivor with kids that liked fishing. He believed everyone owned the lake and deserved access to the Public Lands and then came the “Summer Homes” at the lake, and now thanks to those “absent owners” it appears they are “buying” (LOBBYING) to price the riff-raff out of their real “cabins”.
I am not sure if I'm part of the riff, or part of the raff, but as they yelled out the windows in that old famous movie........”I'm mad as hell, and I'm not taking it any more!”

SPORTS

I still think Felix Hernandez is my Cy Young leader right now in the American league. Also Carlos Zambrano is my Cy Young pick in the National league.

If your following my sports section you probably can tell by now I've been slipping a little in my attention to this section.

I did get to see a little of the Sadhawks yesterday and also that Charger-Steeler game. Both Big Ben and Rivers were my quarterbacks during my last foray into FFB. However, grand nephew Brandon is sure looking forward to Football. I will try to get to one of his games, now that we are facebook friends. I am definitely going to get more golf in, (Sunday afternoons sound good - hint, hint) and I am waiting to hear how Michael Ross' sign ups went?

COMMUNITY ORGANIZERS & CHARITIES

The Cancer Center at Providence Hospital, as I believe they were definitely a comfort to Dianna, her family and friends those last days.

As promised yesterday, my friend Molly Smithson, who is well on her way to becoming a WOW woman, and she is from good HERO stock and she has her own favorite non-profit. A non-profit working to raise awareness and dollars for other non-profits. They are choosing to help Mitey Riders www.miteyriders.org.
One goal is to instill in teens the intrinsic value of volunteering, another is to empower teens to make a difference in their community.
Her organization is playing for others: at www.playingforothers.org.

The American Rights at Work still needs help.

Crystal Lee Sutton – the real "Norma Rae" – passed away just recently.
In her memory, will you send an eCard to Congress asking them to pass the Employee Free Choice Act in 2009?
Ms. Sutton's struggle as a mother of three – earning $2.65 an hour and working in appalling conditions – led her to take a stand and help organize a union in her plant. Like countless workers who try to join a union today, she was met with threats, harassment, and was ultimately fired from her job. The movie "Norma Rae" highlighted these issues 30 years ago. We've waited far too long for real reform.
Tell Congress that America's workers can't wait another three decades for a solution to the injustices outlined in "Norma Rae."



The National Guard, the USO and L. C. S. A. - Labors Community Service Agency

Here's two, from what I consider the top of the list, the OSBT (Oregon State Building Trades) and the NWOLC (Northwest Oregon Labor Council).

OTHER STUFF AND COMMUNICATIONS
“GET 'ER DONE” - SOFT LANDING ! And give them back their money!

So it wasn't bad enough our Men and Women in the Guard got nicked $40.00 before they shipped out NOW they have to pay $65.00 a month for internet access overseas. RON....JEFF.....PATTY.....MARIA.....EARL.....BRIAN, CAN'T YOU DO SOMETHING ABOUT THAT!

Desert Heaven; It's officially out there now........ here's where Judi's newly designed sales page is:

http://bestmeringuerecipes.com

Whether you attend a church service, a Mosque, GLBT gathering, or Synagogue service, please say a prayer that God; yours, mine or ours; keeps our service men and women in the Palm of their hand. That One Gib sent me would work very well.

Mike; My “short” blog is still long, just over 8 pages today.

Molly, be sure to let Cloe know, our leprechaun remembers you both and asked me to tell you;
May the road rise up to meet you, May the wind be ever at your back,
May the sun shine warm upon your face, And the rain fall softly on your fields,
And until we meet again, May God hold you in the hollow of his hand.

God love you, Dianna, and Thank You, Jonnalynn.

Now don't forget to say your prayers and I'll see you next time on my blog.