Issue 4, Volume 2
Winter 2017
Interviews with:
The Founder of Inclusion Films, Joey Travolta pg 3 The 2016 Winner of the Temple Grandin Award pg 5 The Owner of “The Phantom of the Attic” pg 25
Prepare to expand your experience! Pittverse Magazine is a quarterly publication that proudly represents the introspection and creativity of adults on the autism spectrum. Its goal is to provide thoughtful opinion and enhanced knowledge of wide-ranging topics to the public while providing its writers, who are all adults on the autism spectrum, with skills ap-
plicable to future employment. Pittverse is produced by Youth Advocate Programs (YAP), a national non-profit agency that comprises a multitude of services for families with not only individuals on the autism spectrum but also other at-risk youth and adults. Brian Kluchurosky, the director of YAP’s PA Allegheny
County Adults with Autism Program, founded Pittverse in 2013. It began as a newsletter written by four of the adults in the YAP program. In 2015, with generous funding from Edith Trees Foundation, Pittverse grew from a newsletter into a magazine that commissions over twenty autistic adults. Welcome to The Pittverse...
Cover photo credit: Imperial Walkers via BagoGames from flickr.com. Pittsburgh via Dan Chimill from flickr.com.
Letter from the Editor... Thank you and congratulations to everyone involved in completing another successful year of the Pittverse Magazine! I can’t believe we’ve published two entire volumes (that’s eight whole issues!) since we started. Plus, we just got word that the Edith L. Trees Foundation is funding the magazine for a third year… I can’t wait to see what 2017 brings! I’m sure we all have lots of goals and hopes for the new year; I know I do. Every year, some of the most common resolutions Americans make are fitness and health oriented. But we all know it’s easy to lose focus once the distractions of the new year set in. This year, you can motivate yourself to keep your fitness resolution by working out for a great cause. Let’s keep our resolutions and contribute to autism research and advocacy at the same time! There are
lots of benefit races in Pittsburgh already set up for 2017. Kick off the new year by participating in the Autism Frostbite 5K on January 14 at North Park. This race is in partnership with the Cassie Foundation, and proceeds go towards autism awareness. For more information and registrations, go to https://runsignup.com/Race/Events/ PA/AllisonPark/AUTISMFrostbite5K. The 2017 Pittsburgh Marathon is on May 7. This year, don’t just run for yourself, join the “Run for Autism” team and every step you take will help fund the Organization for Autism Research. Bonus: the team will give you a t-shirt, race singlet, and hospitality at the OAR tent at the finish line. To sign up, head over to https://www.crowdrise.com/ oarpitt2017.
ports, and services. Last year’s Pittsburgh walk on June 12 raised $722,488! The 2017 event will be hosted at Schenley Park with a date TBD. Stay updated at autismspeakswalk.org. As well as these events, if you want your workout to keep raising money on your own time, download the free app Charity Miles. The app encourages you to exercise by donating money to a charity of your choice for every mile you walk or run. Choose from charities like Autism Speaks, Special Olympics, Pencils of Promise, and more! Here’s to a healthy and successful year!
Every summer, Autism Speaks hosts walks around the country to raise money for autism research, sup-
Renee Fisher Pittverse Editor
Contents 3… Joey Travolta: Master of Inclusion (Films) 5… An Exclusive Interview with Dr. Ralph F. Wilps Jr., Winner of the 2016 Temple Grandin Award 7… Honoring My Dad No Matter What 8… Honoring My Mom 9… Spice Up Your Health! 9… The Love Fruit, Quince 10… The Wonderful Nurse 11… Honoring My Black Labrador 12… Gary Numan’s Career and Legacy, Part Two 13… Volunteering at Friendship Circle 14… Free the Weed 15… The Cafeteria Staff at PCA School 17… MJ’s Designs: How I Started My Own Business 19… James Connolly Upstate NY General Membership Branch of the IWW, Paul and Rohelle 20… Police Brutality 21… August Wilson, Playwright of The Pittsburgh Cycle 22… An Outline and Syllabus That a Teacher Might Use in Her English Classroom 23… New Year’s Celebrations and Resolutions 24… Max’s Mini Christmas Interview and How To 25… Phantom of the Attic, Interview With Store Owner Roy Thompson 27… Building a Resort in Belize 28… Pinball Mania 29… Sound and Music of Harmonic Inspiration 30… Interview at the Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh 31… Of Tribbles and Troubadours: Cele brating the 50th Anniversary of Star Trek and The Monkees 32… Phoebe Snow’s Daughter 33… Magdalene Laundries, An Interpretation of Joni Mitchell’s Song 35… Becoming Older in American Society 36… The Story of My Father, Martin Ashkin 37… A Self Esteem Personal Note 41… In Memoriam: Carrie Fisher 43… Recipe for Mocha Chocolate Cake 44… Star Trek Phase II: The Untold Voyages, An In-Depth Analysis 45… Skidmore’s Sci Fi Spotlight: Jack Vance, Master of the Dying Earth 46… Dark Knight, Steel City 47… Skidmore’s Music Review: The Monkees: Good Times! 48… Visiting Your Family Elders 49… Interview with Matt Kastner from N Stuff Instrument Music Shop 50… Fugitor: The Time Escapee, Part 13 51… Pokémon Stories, Part 2 52… Introduction to Lark’s Timeline 52… The Children’s War: Fifth Installment of Lark’s Story 55… From the Future With Love Pittverse 2 56… Pittverse Top Tens
Joey Travolta:
Master of Inclusion (Films) An Exclusive Interview by Michael Kurland
I
nclusion Films, founded in 2007, provides those with special needs, a classroom/ hands-on intro to the art of filmmaking. After 6 consecutive years of attending the Pittsburgh camp, I finally scored a 1-on-1 exclusive with the Founder/ Creative Director, Joey Travolta. What follows is a Q&A version of both the history and the meaning of Inclusion Films as told by Joey himself. Interviewer Q: Appr oximately when was Inclusion Films founded? And, why? Joey T: “Well, that’s a long, long answer. Inclusion Films was started in 2007, and, it’s kind of an offshoot of the camps. Years ago when I was directing, I was directing two movies a year and I was getting young filmmakers out of college, that had no idea…they didn’t know their way around the set, they had no practical experience. And I thought, wouldn’t it be great to have a workshop and train people that maybe aren’t going to go to college and that maybe really want to be filmmakers, but, the only way to get experience was to start at the ground level. Whereas, in the practical film workshop, they could work in every department. The writing, camera, all different departments…they come aboard as students and each week they come together to get that practical, hands-on experience. And that was the germ of the idea [for In-
clusion Films].” Interviewer Note: In 2006, there is an organization called the Regional Centers in California that provide services for children and adults with development disabilities. Joey pitched the idea [of a film camp] with a focus on individuals transitioning into adulthood and preparation for future employment. Joey T: “That’s when I pitched the concept of a practical film workshop. And they [Regional Centers] were all over it. It was really originally intended for those with special needs. I learned filmmaking from being an actor and from family in show business so, I had a bird’s eye seat. I was putting together a slate of family films and then after doing the very first camp in the summer of 2006, I thought, you know what? You can do this with a short film. And it’s even better because now at the workshops, we develop the short film [from start to finish] so they are involved with the writing process [and all filmmaking processes] and then we do everything you would do on a normal feature film.” Interviewer Q: What do you personally get out of this experience [Inclusion Films and Summer Camp]? Joey T: “What do I personally get out of it? Well, I just love
filmmaking. The final product isn’t as important to me as the process. And this is why we are successful with the special needs community. When you do a film, you become like a family. And the thing I hated most about filmmaking [in the industry] was you spend 6-8 weeks with this group and then everyone is gone [off to other projects]. I love the idea of everyone working together. And now, with what I do [at Inclusion Films] we can all continue to work together [year after year].” Interviewer Interjects: “Hence the name Inclusion Films.” Interviewer Q: Is ther e any involvement from your brother, John Travolta? Joey T: “He has been very supportive of our interns who go out on the road. We have not made a film together but he has been a guest on a couple of projects. At one time we wanted to do Travolta Family Films and do a whole slate of films, but it just didn’t work out at the time. Someday, we are all going to do a film together!” Interview Q: Wher e and when did you and Dale Oprandy (Joey’s second in command) meet? Joey T: “I met Dale, he was 15 years old and he was doing magic […] he was an unbelievable magician at the age of 15. I got him on the Today Show. I was doing a guest spot on the Today Show,
and I pitched Dale as this magic act (Interviewer Note: Dale’s magic act included hanging upside down from a helicopter in a straight jacket with the rope lit on fire. Houdini would’ve been proud.) Later down the line, what he was great at as an entertainer […] was making everyone feel as if they were a part of his act. So Dale, he was always about his family, his siblings; family was very important to him and when I started this whole thing in 2007, I always thought Dale would be a great teacher because he knew entertainment and was great with people. When I hire people, I want to make sure they are good with people first. You can train
people in filmmaking, but you can’t train people to have a heart.” Interviewer Interjects: “So that’s when you guys became business partners, 2007.” Interviewer Q: Any last snippets of advice for our readers and staff? Joey T: “I think what you guys are doing is fantastic. For me to sit across from you interviewing me, and you get paid for this right? That’s what it’s all about. I am very proud to be interviewed by you and be part of this whole process. Because this is my mission, so I see this as a
part of what I do and what I want to see done.” For more information about Joey and his work, be sure to visit the official website at www.inclusionfilms.com. A very special thanks to Joey Travolta, Dale Oprandy and the staff at Inclusion Films for making this possible.
Pittverse 4
An Exclusive Interview with...
Dr. Ralph F. Wilps, Jr. Winner of the 2016 Temple Grandin Award by Delaine Swearman
O
n November 2, 2016, I had the honor of presenting the Temple Grandin award to this year's recipient, Dr. Ralph Felix Wilps, Jr. during the Autism Connection of Pennsylvania Gala at the Carnegie Museum Music Hall. Dr. Wilps was chosen from an impressive group of nominees to receive the award for making the most significant impact on the autism community in Pennsylvania.
selves.” His role is helping his patients “follow their own paths toward making the world a better place.” Dr. Wilps is there to meet people where they are each day, always listening nonjudgmentally, helping them to know and to trust themselves and their needs. As a therapist, he does whatever is necessary to help his patients achieve whatever goals they set for themselves. He supports them along the way.
Dr. Wilps never planned to become a therapist until he discovered in college that people seemed to want to talk to him, and being able to listen to people was a valuable skill. After receiving his PhD in clinical psychology in 1972, he initially planned to work in New York City. However, as a native of Greensburg, he became homesick and landed his first job in an organization that just happened to be run by parents of mostly autistic children.
The award was named after Dr. Temple Grandin, a well known and early role model for autistic self-advocates. Dr. Wilps describes her as “a person of great courage and integrity who lifted herself to her full potential no matter what adversity. She used a voice that she knew was awkward, to give voice to other people.”
In 1977, he started a private practice in Forest Hills, and autism became one of his specialties, among others. He sees children and adults of all ages, including some individuals he's known for over 20 years. He works at his office, goes to people's homes, and travels to schools, work settings, hospitals, or “wherever my patients need me.”
When asked how he felt about being chosen for the award, Dr. Wilps said, “because of what it symbolizes and the way I came to be recognized, it is the high point of my career.”
On a routine basis, Dr. Wilps starts his day by going for a run or to the gym, eating breakfast, helping his wife, and then studying journal articles to stay up to date with current information. He then sees patients in various settings or attends meetings until going home to eat dinner. In the evening he might have harmonica lessons or go ballroom dancing with his wife. When he gets free-time, such as on weekends, Dr. Wilps does organic gardening, rides his motorcycle, and uses FaceTime to stay in contact with his son and grandchildren in New Hampshire.
Dr. Wilps has been working as a therapist for individuals with autism and their families for the past 44 years. He explains that people “need someone to provide a safe, sacred space in the background to replenish them-
Pictures by Joseph Smith, a photographer on the autism spectrum. View more of his work at: http:// jedijoe8160.wixsite.com/benevolentphotos
Dr. Wilps’ schedule isn't always routine though. He frequently goes above and beyond the normal expectations. This might mean spending hours making phone calls or writing letters on his patient’s behalf. Or he could be volunteering his time to speak at a local university, doing a training session, or presenting at a conference. He works as a consultant as needed and also serves on professional advisory boards for autism organizations. Plus he always stays available to his patients, taking their phones calls whenever necessary, even after hours and on weekends. Dr. Wilps’ compassion sets him apart. He was the stepfather of a
child with significant needs and this gives him a unique perspective and understanding of the challenges within his patients’ families. He also lived through his own battle with an eating disorder and is able to use the experience as a way to connect with patients. Dr. Wilps allows himself to be changed by his interactions with patients. His hope is that others are open to this too. Every interaction with another person has the potential to teach you something, maybe something about the world or maybe something about yourself. His personal motto is, “It’s important to do good and let yourself be changed by those
around you and the people you meet.” As for any final thoughts, Dr. Wilps says, “I've learned that surprises are everywhere and that grace is always flowing if you allow it to flow into your life. I have no plans to retire. I recognize that life has change, but right now I'm still strong and I want to continue being here to be surprised.”
“Some... just have a knack for working with autistic children.”
Temple Grandin
Pittverse 6
Honoring My Dad No Matter What by Bryan Lippert
G
rowing up with my dad was tough, but I learned a lot from him. He taught me how to have courage, values, better communication skills, and to be more out going. He also taught me to be independent. I learned how to work with my hands, and they have been strengthened over the many years of working with my dad on home remodeling. He disciplined me when I did something wrong, whether it was swearing, lying, disobeying house rules, or expressing other bad behaviors. I didn't feel like getting my privileges taken away from me, or my toys. Without that good foundation, I most likely would have continued causing more problems to myself, physically and mentally. His love towards me would be described as tough love.
There were plenty of times when my dad, as he likes to say it, just let me “fall on my face.” He would also say, "Hey, you're on your own,” or “You are your own worst enemy,” or “If you screw up, you’re on your own. Don't come asking me for help.”
Then there were times when he stood up for me, like during my elementary days when some kids bullied me. He came to my school and told those kids to leave me alone. Another time I was being improperly cared for at a daycare center and my dad singlehandedly overthrew the entire place; he made them change the rules and even change their name. I enjoyed spending the majority of time with my dad as a kid, and
even as an adult I still enjoy spending time with him when I can. I will never forget that time is one of the most valuable gifts you can give to another person. Why? Because not everyone can afford gifts; not everyone makes a lot of money. When someone passes away, they can’t take their job, money, or material items with them. So hopefully I will be able to spend some more time and years with my dad. Lastly, no matter what, my dad is not my friend, or best friend. In the end he will always be my dad, who can never be replaced.
Honoring My Mom by Bryan Lippert
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rowing up with my mom was tough at times. She had the patience of a saint trying to teach me almost everything from tying my shoes, to reading, spelling, baking, English, and math. She is very good with math; that's her strong point, it's my weak point. Sometimes she babied me too much; she never spoiled me even through I'm her only child. I had to work very hard growing up. She had me do chores around the house to earn a weekly or monthly allowance, which taught me to plan my day out better, plus gave me responsibility. Also she was a very clean person.
She kept the house clean and well organized. Still to this day I keep my own place well organized and clean. She's a very hard worker. Sometimes she had to help my dad out doing hard labor for their house he built, which they have been living in since January 2014, I believe. She's a woman/ mom that other women and moms should look up to. Even though her parents smoked around her, she and my dad never started and never will. She did everything a mom could do for an only child and more. I feel like she taught me many life skills. Speaking again on her math skills, it was fun shopping with her. She always knew how to save me and you every last pen-
ny. No offense to other moms, she bought me thrift store clothes that were a few sizes too big for me so that I could grow into them. My mom has been dedicated to the post office for 40 years and gets retirement money from them. Ever since my mom taught me how to bake, I never quit baking. I got even better, ha ha, she always keeps saying I bake better than her. She always enjoys all of my talents that I share with her. I have enjoyed spending time with my mom as a kid and as an adult from seeing movies together, going out to eat way too many times, lots of laughs, shopping together, making food together, and so much more. I couldn't ask for a better mom; you'll always be my momma.
Pittverse 8
Spice up your health! by Bryan Lippert
B
lack pepper is an ally for you in your battle against holiday weight gain. A substance in black pepper called piperine might help block the formation of new fat cells.
This information was found in a study online, which was documented in The Journal of Agriculture and Food Chemistry. Cinnamon is good for women. It helps women recover faster after working out. Women who ate one
and half teaspoons of cinnamon every day for five weeks, experienced a decrease in muscle soreness brought on by exercise. Ginger is best as the stomach soother. It might also help you feel fuller and help you burn more calories. If you're overweight, drink tea with ginger in it along with your breakfast. The men who
via Wikimedia Commons
The Love Fruit, Quince by Bryan Lippert
Q
uinces are ripe and ready to eat in late autumn. They are used to make marmalade spoons, sweets, and jellies. Quinces can also be baked as pies and meats. Quinces are a favorite dish of Greece. They are made best on aluminum cookware. When cooked, quinces should turn from yellow/orange to red color. Greek mythology associates quinces with Aphrodite, the Goddess of Love, and many believe that the golden apple given to her by Paris was actually a quince.
via pixabay
drink ginger tea burned 40 calories. Vanilla is very good for you. People who wore a vanilla scented patch on the back of their hands for four weeks cut their intake of sweet foods (like sugary drinks and high-calorie desserts) by half. A lemon patch causes no change in eating habits.
The Wonderful Nurse by Bryan Lippert
O
n Wednesday, November 16, 2016, I had the opportunity to not just meet a new CR NP certified registered nurse practitioner, I also interviewed her as well. Her name is Lea Bacco. My visit with her was very quick; I was just getting my blood pressure and BMI checked. She works at 300 Fleet St., Pittsburgh PA 15220 at Care Physicians Preferred Prima, who I have been with since I was a child. She's very young, and I'm not giving away her age. All right, moving on to the questions. My first one was: What made you decide to become a nurse? She's not a nurse she's a nurse practitioner, which means she can prescribe medicine, and she can see patients, She can almost do everything a doctor does, with a little extra schooling. She said she was still young and wanted to further her education and be more in a leadership role of nursing. The second question was: What
photos via Wikimedia Commons
kind of schooling do you need to become a nurse? Which school/ college did you attend if any?
Oh joy, question four. How do you handle a request you disagree with?
Lea said her nursing school was through California University of Pennsylvania, and then her nurse practitioners school was at Simons College of Boston. It took her a total of six and a half years. She also mentioned for other folks interested in pursing nursing, they need a associates degree in nursing and have to go to nursing school.
She said I'm trying to provide education, literature, and the most upto-date research.
The third question was: What do you think are the most challenging aspects of meeting patients needs? This was her response: That's a good question. That people have it set in their mind exactly how they want to be treated as far as whether they want antibiotics or non-antibiotics. With the times now, we have to wait longer to treat certain things with antibiotics. That's the biggest thing people know what they want, because they read it on the internet of they saw it on TV. They don't like it when we say no.
The fifth question I asked was: Do you plan on advancing being a nurse for the rest of your life? She said, I want to stop here I got my Masters in nursing. She doesn't want to become a doctor. She's done with her schooling. The final question six was: Do you plan to retire from being a nurse?
Immediately to that question, right away, she said yes. She hopes to retire at 65, she said. It was very nice doing the interview with Lea. All I can say to sum this up is make sure you take care of yourselves and see your doctors, nurses, or whoever you have to see to maintain a healthy, happy life.
Pittverse 10
Honoring My Black Labrador by Bryan Lippert
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n 2013 I decided to make it a tradition to honor my dog Pal's life on my birthday. Also, now Buddy, my yellow Labrador, who passed away in 2014 at age 13. I made a homemade blueberry cheesecake and wrote Pal on it, which I shared with my momma.
Getting back on track, I'm doing this because Pal was pretty much my best friend in the animal world. He was loving and loyal to me until the end of his time. In a way, I consider him my guardian dog angel. In my mind, Pal’s name stands for this: P for peaceful, A for admirable, and L for loyal.
I'll never forget about you. You will always be remembered in my body, mind, soul, dreams, and my heart. ♥️ Much Love, Pal and Buddy
Gary
Numan's
Part Two
Career
&
Legacy
by David O’Rorey
A
fter the tour ended in November of 1979, Numan had another hit, “Complex,” which made number six on the UK charts. A song from The Pleasure Principle '79 album previously released also made number nine in Ireland. Sadly. the song wasn't played live until September '80 on The Teletour UK and US tour. In February of 1980, Numan embarked on a world tour, The Touring Principle '80, which he toured the music of Replicas, The Pleasure Principle, and a few new songs from Telekon, his newest release. This tour started on Feb. 18, 1980 and went on until May 1980 ending in Japan and Australia. In May 1980, Numan released "We Are Glass,'' which reached number five on the UK charts and also cracked the top ten in Ireland, making number nine.
In August 1980, "I Die: You Die" was released as a single, making number six on the UK charts and number 16 in Ireland. The song was aimed towards the UK press for slandering Numan because of his new found fame with the new breed of synthesizer music he created. Numan's next album, Telekon, become another big UK hit and
made the top ten. It was released in the summer of 1980 or early Sept. '80. "This Wreckage" was the third single released in December 1980. It made number 20 and Ireland made number 20 also.
Numan's next tour would be in September 1980, The Teletour, which was an even more lavish stage show than the previous one in '79-'80. Instead of 20 foot tow-
ers, this time, Numan would employ a 60 foot set up.
The tour started in the UK in September '80 and went into North America in Oct. to Nov. '80. Numan also announced his retirement from live performances, thinking he wasn't a natural on stage and didn't enjoy touring. He put on a Farewell Tour consisting of three shows in late April of 1981 in London at Wembley Arena.
In August 1981, Numan released another single, "She's Got Claws," which made number six in England and number 12 in Ireland. In 1981, Gary Numan's backing band formed Dramatis and released a Single that featured Gary Numan's vocals. The song was "Love Needs No Disguise," and it reached number 33 on the UK charts. Next, Numan recorded an album I, A ssassin released in 1982 with a different band line-up than before. Having his last top 10 UK chart hit to date "We Take Mystery (To Bed)" reached number nine in 1982. Also, two more singles were released both reaching the top 20 “Music For Chameleons” and “White Boys And Heroes.” Then, Numan moved to the States and did a big tour of the album from Oct. to Nov. '82 which started at The Pasadena Perkins Palace. Look for Part Three about Numan in the Spring Issue of Pittverse.
photos via Wikimedia Commons
Pittverse 12
Volunteering at the Friendship Circle by Mark Sulkin
I
chose to write about my experience volunteering at The Friendship Circle, located in Squirrel Hill. I volunteer on Mondays and Thursdays from 2:00pm and stop at 5:00pm. I started volunteering there at the end of November 2016. I’m the receptionist, who sits at the front desk. Some of my duties are answering the phone and transferring phone calls to staff. I also am in charge of letting people enter and exit the building. Some recent tasks that I have been asked to assist with are labeling and sorting mail. I feel that I am most helpful when given projects to complete, as well as monitoring the doors.
n part of have been: Sunday Circle Field Trips; my favorite has been our trip to The National Aviary. I also have been a part of Book Club; held at The Carnegie Library, and lastly, “Friends on the Town” dinners, at the Milky Way.
The location of The Friendship Circle moved from 5872 Northumberland Street to 1922 Murray Avenue. The newest building was established in early 2016. Construction took almost 3 years. Staff finally moved into their of-
I like volunMark (left) Volunteering at Friendship Circle teering at The Friendship Circle because I have fices in March of 2016. The become very familiar with the or- Friendship Circle had a grand ganization, having been a member opening on September 11, 2016. since I was in the 10th grade. My favorite part about the new The Friendship Circle is a non- building is the rooftop, because profit organization, whose goal is you can see all of Squirrel Hill to provide every individual with from there. special needs the support, friend- While volunteering one week, I ship, and inclusion that they de- decided to ask some staff what serve. It provides assistance and they liked most about working at support to 3,000 individuals with The Friendship Circle. special needs and their families by providing multiple programs such Meghan, said that she likes “How as education, social and recrea- seriously we take our message of tional. inclusion, not just in programs, but in the office as well.” Some programs that I have been a
Adina, said her favorite part of working at The Friendship Circle would be, “the friendly environment in the office.” Masha said her favorite part of The Friendship Circle would be the fact that she is together with her friends all day, whether it’s in the office or out at a program and meeting new, potential friends every day. Julia said her favorite part of The Friendship Circle would be that every day she gets to create a new memory with all of her friends. And that she leaves work every day excited to come back for tomorrow. “We laugh all the time,” she stated. After writing this article, I realized that I participate in many ways at The Friendship Circle; whether it be volunteering my time or joining others in the programs held in and outside of the building. I think that being a part of The Friendship Circle is a lot of fun! I am very happy that I was asked to help out and assist staff by volunteering weekly. To find out more about The Friendship Circle,\ please contact 412-224-4440, email at info@fcpgh.com or check out their website: fcpgh.org.
Free the Weed by Kenneth Miller
T
he War on Drugs has destroyed many lives. Education and treatment are more than just a “War on Drugs.” It is a war that has been used to justify more US Imperialism and more mass incarceration. Like Leonard Cohen sang, “Everybody knows that the dice are loaded. Everybody knows that the captain lied.” Finally, pushed by social movements like Black Lives Matter and changes in drug use like the huge numbers of white people addicted to prescription opioids, all pretenses that the War on Drugs can be won have fallen apart. Now, State Legislators are figuring out how to commodify marijuana to fill holes in the State budget. They’ll end up creating even more corporate welfare programs like the one just offered by Donald Trump to Carrier in Indianapolis and the sports teams. They are a bunch of hypocrites. One day they are incarcerating and arresting and criminalizing, the next day they are creating another poll tax. The state regulation of marijuana should not be another way to tax the poor, like gasoline and cigarettes. The legal-
ization process, the licensing of Medical Marijuana Dispensaries, is best compared to the licensing of casinos in PA. This is a small step towards legalizing marijuana for everyone, “Recreational Marijuana” is just around the corner, as fast as they can figure out how to best monetize it. There are many long time advocates of marijuana legalization, there were at least five ki-
osks advocating for marijuana legalization at the PA Farm Show in 2014, the legislators have taken to initiative… by monetizing the plant. The right answer for marijuana is the same as it has always been. FREE THE WEED.
People on the Autism Spectrum,
the writers of this magazine, are among those eligible to prescribed medical marijuana and to buy marijuana from Pennsylvania dispensaries in the coming year. There is more information about how marijuana affects people with autism than ever before. There are vast numbers of people on the autism spectrum in the State prison system. Most of them are undiagnosed. Of course they need access to the Autism Waiver, just like we do, even more. The key thing would be to make the Pittverse available inside the State Prison system and to prison and find some spectrum prison writers for the Pittverse. The Autism Connection of PA is hosting “Cannabis As Medicine” on Tuesday January 10 at 6:30p.m. at 35 Dewey Street in Etna. Presenters are Heather Shuker, Managing Director, Patrick Nightingale, Esquire and Grant J. Shevchik, M.D., FAAFP.
Pittverse 14
The Cafeteria Staff at PCA School by MJ Devine
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t PCA (Pittsburgh Classical Academy) the cafeteria workers serve breakfast and lunch to school children during the school year. There are four ladies that get to offer good quality and healthy choice food to the students. They love interacting with the children. I had the pleasure to interview two of them. Karen is the cafeteria manager and Dawn is the cook. Dawn
ipes. The reason is there are nutritional requirements from the government and state. Can you be creative with the food you serve or do you have to following the recipe? Have to follow the recipes and the amounts listed. A relationship with the school staff and students are important. How would you work to develop a relationship with the students &
What do you like about being a School cafeteria worker?
You have to have a serve safe certificate in order to handle food. You have to pass a test in order to receive it.
Do you use your own recipes or does food services provide you the recipes? Food service provides us with rec-
To ensure that the proper foods and amounts are begin ordered to over see that the food is prepared and served properly payroll. What education or certification did you need for your job?
A relationship with the school staff and students are important. How would you work to develop a relationship with the students & staff?
What education or certification did you need for your job?
I am responsible for prepping breakfast for ECC and PCA. I am responsible to cook, hold, and maintain temperatures for food.
What is the Cafeteria Manager’s role is in the kitchen?
A high school diploma with continuing food safety training and a serve-safe certificate.
I enjoy the interaction with students and staff but most of all cooking.
What are your responsibilities is in the kitchen?
all these children, some who might not be getting very much to eat at home. I enjoy the people that I work with.
staff? I try to be open minded about suggestions for cooking and for food choices to bring up at meetings.
Be respectful and open minded. Listen and acknowledge.
Karen
How do you do all the paperwork for ordering and inventory? Do you use paper and pencil method or computer scanners or computer ordering?
What do you like about being a School cafeteria manager?
I do inventory with paper and pencil
The satisfaction that I'm feeding
I do payroll with paper and pencil
I do all my ordering on the computer ( Bread, milk, produce, food) How do you your book keeping for counting money? We have deposit entry forms that are done daily. How do take inventory? Do you use technology to help you with this?
We do a physical inventory and order accordingly.
Pittverse 16
MJ’s Designs How I Started My Own Business by MJ Devine
S
tarting my own business is harder than I thought. There are many steps I need to take to be successful. This article is about my dream of opening up my own business and the struggles I encountered. What do you want to do when you grow up, MJ? How many times I heard that growing up. Everyone asking me from teachers, counselors, my mom, my sisters... the list could go on and on. It seems like I had many different answers growing up. I remember I wanted to a chef or a baker. My dad is a chef at the Duquesne Club, and my mom is an amazing baker. I learned a lot from my mom, and I can bake the best brownies in the family. Unfortunately, I was not able to maintain a job in the cooking field without the right support I needed. So one night around the dinner table my mom and my sisters; Sara, Nicole, and Jenni; were talking about talents, what talents we handed what we know. W hat are you good at? they said to me. They reminded me that I love to make jewelry. Since I was little I always like to string beads. They said that
maybe I should start to make jewelry to sell. That was the beginning to MJ’s Designs.
The first step to opening my business is to make an inventory. My family and I went to many different craft stores to buy all the supplies I needed to make an invento-
name was going to be. My family was around the dinner table making a list of business names. We all agreed my name needed to be in the title. Everyone calls me MJ. I like being called MJ. And my last name starts with D. All of a sudden, MJ's Designs was thrown out there, and I love it! That is how my named my business. The next step in opening my business where am I going to display my designs. My church was having a craft and vendor show. I bought a table. It was on Saturday, October 29. It was a successful event! I sold many of my designs. I even made a bracelet at the event for someone to buy.
ry. This was fun and easy to do. When we returned that evening, I started to make my jewelry. Creating beautiful and colorful designs is fun to do. I am good at that. This step is the easiest in opening my business. The next step in opening my business was what my business’s
Who know that a hobby I started as a kid would turn out to be my job today. I am very proud of myself. I feel more confident and comfortable with my life. Things will turn out good just like my mom said all the time. "It will all work out MJ, just wait and see," she said. So now that I am dealing with a few struggles, I keep that line in my head. It will all work out. A few of my struggles are learning how to keep up with the demand with proper amount of supplies
needed to make my jewelry, learning how to schedule my day to make my jewelry, learning how to set up a web site and managing it, learning how to advertise, and learning how to find places to show and sell my jewelry. I am determined to do this right. It may take me a while to figure out how to solve these struggles but with the support of my loving family I will be successful.
Pittverse 18
James Connolly Upstate NY General Membership Branch (GMB) of the Industrial Workers of the World (IWW), Paul and Rochelle by Kenneth Miller
M
searching for the best contract language and advocating for more disclosures. He demanded and made assertions with thunder and lightening.
Paul drove trucks in NYC where he was a member of Teamster Locals and even ran for union office. Later he wrote and spoke and organized with Teamsters for a Democratic Union. He spoke eloquently about the AFL-CIO’s business unionism. He explicated the way business unions missed the mark, fail to capture our aspirations, and embraced dual membership.
Rochelle was hungry for the IWW for as long as she could remember. She grew up a poor Jew in NYC, learned to type early in life, married the son of a garment workers union representative and had two children. Rochelle rescued neglected correspondence sent to the NYC IWW and reestablished the NYC General Membership Branch of the IWW. She divorced and took a job with the Cornell School of Labor and Business where she taught labor union programs for over twenty years.
y friends Paul Paulos and Rochelle Semel died in 2016. Paul after three or four open heart surgeries and Rochelle four or five months later. They were both Wobblies, members of the Industrial Workers of the World (IWW).
Paul was especially interested in the rights of union members and defended the free speech and minority opinions wherever he found them. We were members of a Bangladesh Working Group together and I know how he relished the opportunity to communicate with workers in other parts of the world. He was a great legal mind, always
Paul and Rochelle met late in life, at an IWW event, and fell in love immediately. They celebrated the IWW’s role in the Paterson New Jersey garment workers strike. Their great romance took place around the copier machine at Cornell University where they published “Wobbly City” a NYC IWW magazine. They left NYC and
built a home in Hartwick NY, near Cooperstown and Altamont NY, within driving distance of a few CUNY schools. They founded the James Connolly General Up State NY General Membership Branch of the IWW with Fellow Workers like Greg Giorgio. They supported many strikes and processed all kinds of Unfair Labor Practice complaints. The IWW is the “Singing Union” and Paul thought that the song “Banks of Marble” was a great anthem for Occupy Wall Street. Rochelle was an IWW Delegate for over 30 years, the IWW Delegate of longest continues standing. She sent in a Report to General Headquarters every month. She also served on the Board of the Hungarian Workers Literature Fund. The Upstate NY James Connolly Branch of the IWW worked with Tom Keough and the Hungarian Workers Literature fund to publish a graphic novel about the full life of James Connolly to mark the 100th anniversary of his execution on May 12, 2016. You can get it www.JoeHill100.com three for just ten dollars!
The IWW's Universal Label is a Union Label/Union Bug assigned by the General Executive Board of the IWW. There are half a dozen IWW print shops that can be found on www.IWW.org People used to "shop for the union label," use the label to choose products that were union made. Largely, buy union campaigns have been replaced by "Made In The USA." That is not working out for workers in Bangladesh and China... it is not working out very well for us either. It is kind of like comparing "Human Rights" to Donald Trump's "Make America First." buy union campaigns have been replaced by "Made In The USA." That is not working out for workers in Bangladesh and China... it is not working out very well for us either. It is kind of like comparing "Human Rights" to Donald Trump's "Make America First." via Wikimedia Commons
Police Brutality by Kenneth Miller
P
ittsburgh Police Chief Cameron McClay is leaving after less than three years. He was the only Police Chief to speak at the Democratic National Convention. He was the only Police Chief to be chosen from a national search. The Fraternal Order of Police Local 1 voted “no confidence” in Chief McClay. The FOP was among the only labor unions to endorse Donald Trump for President of the United States. US Attorney David Hickman for Western PA is leaving after having introduced us to the Department of Justice’s “Trust and Jus-
tice” initiative in response to Ferguson. The DOJ has been complaining about the lack of data about police brutality. No one seems able to comprehend that the police departments would not be tracking themselves. One group of people that have been tracking deaths in custody is the October 22 Coalition National Day of Action to Stop Police Brutality with their Stolen Lives Project. President Trump will be appointing a new US Attorney. The DOJ lawyers who have been working on the “Trust and Justice” initiative are flapping in the wind.
Steven Zappa, the Allegheny County District Attorney, ran for State Attorney General in the May Democratic Primary, but lost to Josh Shapperio. My favorite part of the PA Primary in May was hearing Cyril Wecht endorse Josh Shapiro. Ken Gormley, who just finished a term at the PA Supreme Court, has been inaugurated President of Duquesne University.
●Martin Luther King Day, Monday January 16, 2017 ●December 18 and 19 “Refuse the Trump Presidency” Capitol Steps Harrisburg ●(scheduled) Inauguration of Donald Trump, Friday January 20, 2017 ●The 19th Annual Summit Against Racism is the Saturday After Martin Luther King Day, January, 21 2017 at the Pittsburgh Theological Seminary Pittverse 20 ●B-PEP Jazz is Easter Monday
August Wilson: Playwright of The Pittsburgh Cycle by Kenneth Miller
A
ugust Wilson wrote a 10 Play Century Cycle, one play for each decade starting with Gem of the Ocean taking place in 1900 and Radio Gulf in 1990. We can help one another see all ten plays. The plays are about police brutality. They explicate 100 years of police brutality in Pittsburgh. The video cameras that police are now wearing, and the “dash cams” that are videoing police brutality are new… it is just the tape that is new, the police brutality has been going on continuously. August Wilson captured that by talking to his neighbors and growing up in the Hill District. Other hammering themes are poverty and disability. CHECKLIST, Let’s help one another see all 10. Prisoners and
students watching August Wilson theater together. Cops, each one seeing all ten… the cultural shift we need in policing is as nearby as the next August Wilson Production. We have the August Wilson Center for every person coming through the City of Pittsburgh, that is where we re organize police departments. We can start with the Alumni of the Pittsburgh Police Academy. The August Wilson cannon is expanding still!!! Pittsburgh has the greatest density of people who knew August Wilson. Pittsburgh Playwrights is August Wilson’s home theater company.
August Wilson. It is the last 11 times a year publication that I can write for… I could always stop and write for the New People readership about plays. Among the many places New People readership could be expanded, our theater community is another great place to dig in. Dennis Brutus and Nate Smith and August Wilson were all contemporaries… they were all together with Roberto Clemente! And Tim Stevens is there too. That is what is so amazing about the Summit Against Racism. August Wilson is a regular theme of Summit Against Racism workshops.
I used to write for the New People Newspaper. Among the readership are many people who saw these plays or who knew
Members of the Pittverse celebrated Halloween together just days after the Nobel Committee announced the Bob Dylan was winning the 2016 Nobel Prize for Literature. Congratulations Bob Dylan! A poet not just of America, but of the whole world.
An Outline and Syllabus That a Teacher Might Use In Her Classroom by Michelle Middlemiss Editor’s note: Michelle holds an Associate’s Degree as a Teacher’s Assistant. This is an outline she created for teaching a class based on one of her favorite books, Percy Jackson & the Olympians: The Lightening Thief by Rick Riordan. Teaching Outline for Percy Jackson & Olympians: The Lightning Thief. The different styles of the book narrative First person narrative Second person Third person (first chapter) Greek Myth Go over the gods that show up in the book. Make a character tree Percy Jackson himself The ADHD and Dyslexia. The fact that he’s telling the book through his own eyes. How he sees his place in the world at the beginning of the book. (Tell the students to watch and see if that changes throughout the book.) Percy Jackson and his quest. (Chapter 9 and beyond) Percy against Medusa. Percy in the Lotus Casino. Why didn’t Percy get just as ensnared as his friends?) Percy and the Oracle Percy and the gods Percy’s view in knowing that the gods aren’t perfect. Percy’s anger towards his dad and uncle. Why Percy can stand up for the Olympians when confronting Luke. Percy and his friends Grover Annabeth Luke ( at the first time) Luke ( at the end of the book) Percy Jackson and the other myths. Percy, his name sake Percy and Theseus. This little lesson is a lead in to the book in the unit called “Mythology: Timeless Tales of Gods and Heroes.” The Norse Myths and Greek Myths How Odin ruled vs. Zeus’. Days of the week. The different view of what makes a hero. Rationale: To end the unit the students will watch the Percy Jackson movie “The Lightning Thief” and “Thor” after having a signed permission slip. Pittverse 22
New Year’s Celebrations and Resolutions by Mike Perret
I
t has been 27 years that I’ve been celebrating New Year’s Day with my parents. Every New Year’s Eve, I would make a New Year’s resolution and it would be to respect my mom and dad all year long. I try my best to keep my New Year’s resolution all the time. I’m grateful to have a nice family that cares about me every year. In the 23 years that I have lived with my family, I still enjoy celebrating New Year’s Day with them. At 12am, my mom and dad have a traditional New Year’s Day dinner which includes hot dogs, kielbasa, sauerkraut, and pork for good luck every year.
via pixabay
I make different New Year’s resolutions every year, and this coming New Year I’m going to make a different New Year’s resolution. My New Year’s resolution is going to tell the honest truth to everyone and to be more respectful towards my mom, my dad, and my new staff members. I’m going to crack down hard on myself to try my very best to keep my New Year’s Resolution for the New Year coming. If I break my New Year’s resolution for the New Year, I will be very disappointed in myself. I’m going to my parents’ house for New Year’s Eve and to bring in the New Year. At 12am on January 1, 2017, I will start to be more respectful to my staff and
to my family as well. I’m also going to start to stop and think before I start to talk negatively towards my staff. I know that it’s going to be a very difficult challenge for me to start to stop and to think before I talk. To conclude this article, I would like everyone to know that it will be very hard for myself to keep my New Year’s Resolution for the New Year to come. If anyone tries to break their New Year’s resolutions, then it will be very difficult to start the New Year off right. If I break my New Year’s resolution, it will also be very difficult for me to start the New Year off on the right foot.
Max’s Mini Christmas Interview and How To by Max Chaney
H
ing mini houses with them?
cut
the
MG: "Oh gosh no, it would not hold up."
Put it in the oven at 350 until they get golden brown (time varies)
What are their main ingredients?
Make the dough, put a little bit of Crisco and water to make it. (The ingredients for the dough are inside the interview.)
(P.S. There is no recipe list, my grandmother just does it.)
ow long have you been producing them? MG: "Since 1930s."
MG: "Flour (2 cups), 1 teaspoon salt, about 6 tablespoons of water." What happens if one side is "too long.�
it
at
45
degree
angles
Roll the dough, and make a mixture of cinnamon and sugar, but first slather a good amount of butter on the dough, once done.
MG: "You just cut it off, nothing's perfect."
Then with an empty cinnamon shaker, pour in the cinnamon sugar and sprinkle on the dough just enough so it is covered.
I know this may seem daft, but have you ever thought about mak-
Roll up the dough into logs, then
Pittverse 24
Phantom of the Attic Interview With Store Owner, Roy Thompson
I
by Michelle Middlemiss
felt very comfortable climbing the stairs to Phantom of the Attic, as I have done since I was very young. This was a place where I could be on my own because my mom felt safe enough to drop me off here. I used to come to buy collector cards from the previous owner and also from Roy, later on. There are even times when I can talk to groups of people at my favorite comic book store. This is normally something I avoid doing if at all possible. Today I was interviewing the owner, Roy Thompson. Michelle…How did you get to own your store?
Michelle…Was the store always the same size? Roy…Until 2000 I just had the back section open. Then it was just the front section. In 2004 both sections were open and we had a lot more room for merchandise and customers. There’s 1,100 sq. ft. Michelle…What got you interested in working here and buying the store? Roy…I liked to read comics as a
Michelle…What are your favorite comics? Roy…The Walking Dead Comics that came out in 2003. At the time it was the new #1 on the shelf and I just started reading it and got interested. It had a fan base that grew and grew. Saga is an Image comic and a Sci-Fi Fantasy Romance. Michelle…How many customers do you have at Phantom of the Attic? Roy…We have 250-300 regular customers and a lot of them come in weekly.
I talked to Roy about my favorites which are XRoy…Originally Men, (Magneto) there was one Avengers, owner for all five (Scarlet Witch) of the Phantom of Young Avengers the Attic stores. and Doctor In 1990 he sold Strange. When I them all off indiwent away to colvidually. I bought lege Roy and this store in AuTom (his one emgust of 1990 when ployee) still I was 19 and I’ve would save me owned it for 26 issues of comics I years. At that time Michelle and Roy pose with a display of action figures at Phantom of the Attic wanted, but wastwo stores closed. n’t able to buy all That left the three stores in Oak- young kid. I started by reading at once. They both helped me find land, Greentree and Monroeville. and then collecting at age 16 and specific comics I was looking for. When I bought this store, my worked in a store in my They checked on the computer to agreement included keeping the hometown of Washington, PA. tell me when a new book was comThey sold their store to Phantom. ing out. And when it was time to name Phantom of the Attic. I worked at the Washington and pay they helped me count out my Michelle…How long has the store Greentree Phantoms. money. I trusted them to hand me been here in Monroeville? the correct change because I have a Michelle…Would you buy more lot of trouble with counting out my Roy…It opened in 1986. I Marvel or DC Comics? money. worked here in 1989 and bought it Roy…Marvel used to be a better Roy buys from a distributor. Anyin 1990. seller. Now DC is better after the thing that they don’t sell becomes rebirth. back issues or discounted. He uses
Michelle browses Phantom of the Attic while Roy helps out a customer
ordering patterns based on previous sales. New books are bought on a basis where they are not returnable. And they only get old issues when collectors come in with them. There are some back issues saved from when customers didn’t buy them. Michelle…Did you used to sell a lot more Legends? Roy…Toys are tricky. Profit margins are much lower on action figures than for comics. It’s hard to profit on these. Michelle…How do you choose which manga to sell? Manga is the Japanese word for comic. Roy…Whatever is popular. But there is limited shelf space.
Michelle…What do you think about movies versus comics? Roy…As long as they stick to source material they do well. If they stay true to the characters, plot and basic storyline, the movies do well and are a better film. Michelle…I think that the Marvel movies are doing better than the DC. Of course Marvel is my favorite!
Michelle… Have you ever thought of writing comics yourself, and do your kids like comics? Roy…Maybe back in my 20’s. It’s a very hard industry to break into. Bendis is prolific as a creative writer. My kids are 8 and 6. My son loves to read and is above his reading level. Neither of them is interested in comics right now. Michelle… I agree with that. I actually met Bendis at a comic con a long time ago and he was very nice to me. We had a great conversation about his work in the comic industry. Michelle… Could you give me a breakdown of the comic years in your business? Roy… In the 50’s, 60’s and 70’s kids learned to read by reading comics. There are fewer kids reading them now as there were 50 years ago. But the numbers are changing and starting to climb because their parents’ grew up enjoying comics. The 90’s were lean years for my business because people were collecting comics and not reading them as much. It was a speculator market
because people were expecting them to be sold for lots of money. Stuff from the 90’s is not as rare because everyone saved them. So they’re not worth much money. From 1992-1996 it focused on a collectors market, not a readers’. Michelle…When I was in college, comics were actually important to a Literature major, and gained respectability in my Literature classes. We were often assigned comics to read for class. I wrote many papers explaining how comics are a great way for teaching kids to read. Roy…Marvel brought up real issues with their characters beginning in the 60’s and 70’s. They brought out issues that were not normally discussed easily that could be relatable to their readers. I have customers who have trouble reading but enjoy “reading” the comics because they are often mainly pictures and not many words. Michelle…Thank you Roy for a great interview and owning my favorite store.
Pittverse 26
Building a Resort in Belize by Sara Brooks
F
or this article I interviewed my dad. I thought it was very interesting and pretty amazing that he built a resort in Belize, and I wanted to know more about why he did and what some of his favorite things were about Belize. I have actually been to Belize with my family multiple times and we stay in the resort that my dad built. Here is how the interview went: Sara: "Why did you choose Belize as a destination for a resort?" Dad: "Belize is easy to get to and is English speaking. They accept U.S. dollars so you do not need to convert money. There is so much to do in Belize such as Mayan Ruins, zip lines, horseback ridings, cave tubing, fishing, snorkeling, and boating." Sara: "What is the weather in like in Belize?"
Dad: "In the wintertime there the temperature is in the 80s."
They also have delicious fruits like bananas, mangos, papayas.
In the summer months it is in the 90s.
They also prepare a meat from a big rodent called coatimundi.
There is a rainy season in September, October, and November but even that is nice to experience."
When the Queen of England visited one time, she requested it, so now it they call it the royal rat!"
Sara: "Is there danger of a hurricane ?" Dad: "Belize has had a few hurricanes but mostly they pass Belize to the north in Mexico or go straight up to Florida." Sara: "What is the food like ?" Dad: "There is a lot of delicious fish and seafood. They have a lobster season with some of the best tasting Caribbean lobster! The red snapper is delicious, too! They also make a native dish of stewed chicken and rice and beans which is very good, too.
Sara: "How big is the resort?" Dad: "There are 19 three bedroom villas and two big swimming pools. There is a restaurant, and it sits right on the beach." Sara: "What is your favorite thing about Belize?" Dad: "My favorite thing really is the people. They are very nice and friendly. The village is very close to the resort, and it is a great place to visit and get a bite to eat."
Mexico
� Belize
via Wikimedia Commons
Pinball Mania! by Nature f.f. Aura
T
o understand pinball machines, you must first ask the question of how they came to be. For example, what drives a person to create such a fascinating device?
ketball and or any other sport. It heightens senses, gives the player a fundamental function of new challenges, and most importantly a way to make a new friend as you hang out at the arcade.
Well if we need to know that where is the fun in figuring it out. We have several thousand pinball machines to choose from, so there are so many in time that history lost track of when or the mystery of how it was designed. But to be honest, I rather keep it a mystery. Its kind of like the question are we alone in the universe. So in that aspect I’ll just tell you what I think about them instead of a boring history lesson.
So in light of these awesome changes in the world of pinball tournaments where forged to not only bring people of the earth together but I brought new idea to create peace and love back in the day. And still to this day its still a great thing to do as we figure out a brand new world of what pinball has inspired. My hope is that this will continue in the future bringing happiness peace love friendship and stop fighting like back then when it was created.
The pinball machine is like a bas-
To be blunt and honest once more
I think it will do just that. So let’s enjoy a great game of pinball. As a matter of fact there is still an arcade old school and still kike n just come down to Steel City, PA downtown on Smithfield Street and see what all the buzz is about. I guarantee that you will not be disappointed. I know that I won’t be. Blessed be my brothers and sisters of the earth and I hope all is well for you. Peace, love, and harmony will stop war and violence now and forever. Your brother and guardian of the earth,
NATURE F.F. AURA
Pittverse 28
Sound and Music of Harmonic Inspiration by Nature f.f. Aura
F
war violence and fighting. It inspired people to dance in new and funny ways that brought a new meaning to get down and bring on the grove. So after the theatrics and opera.
I was something to be shared amongst the world and to inspire a new form of not just entertainment and something to do. I gave freedom of speech. It gave peace and harmony to all cultures. It stopped
Then came an acoustic in the streets then on the streets came the theaters, studios, then came the jazz clubs like the queen bee, kitty's and the all famous rat pack lounge known as the four aces. Then came on the cultures from all the world in their own awesome unique ways. So if we can bring the music to end the war back in the day and inspire peace and love. We can do it once more if we truly believe in not just ourselves, but we can believe in all life, our brothers and sisters, for all years to come.
rom the time when the first step was taken and some one copied the same beat after listening to the foot steps then started listening to other noise the thought. Why can't we create something that is coordinated and makes a beautiful beat to the rhythm and then show it to the people. So then the first show was performed then it created something of great importance. More then just a new thing to look at but way more important than a new way to make money.
Let's show the darkness that plotted war and torn us apart that the world is a gift and our music makes us free. And let us show our music so we can end the world wars fighting killing and violence. Let's show them that we are not afraid and show our love and harmony of our voices will be heard. And all we need is love. And each other. Let the music flow and the loving rhythm show. Written by your brother and one of the guardians of earth. Nature f.f. Aura
Interview at the Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh by Mike Levenson
I
have been working at my favorite hospital, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, since March of 2015. After trying to find a job there for five years, my one counselor got me a job there within a month of being assigned to my team. Now she and I get to enjoy the hospital together. My favorite thing about working at the hospital is seeing the children and bringing a smile to their faces. For this article, I decided to interview my boss at Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, John Krysinsky. The following information is what I found out about John.
What is John's favorite part of the job? He has a position where he gets to help people who want to help others. What is John's least favorite part
of the job? Paperwork and requirements. How long has John been working at Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh? He has worked there for four and a half years. What is John's official job title?
What is John's favorite holiday season at Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh and why? John enjoys both Halloween and Christmas. He enjoys Halloween because that was his first official day on the job at Children's Hospital. How did John get his job at Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh?
He is a volunteer coordinator. What are some of John's hobbies outside of work? John enjoys sports, writing, playing basketball and golf, and reading inspirational books.
Where was John Long Island, New York.
born?
What brought John to Pittsburgh? John went to Point Park University and studied journalism. While there, he also played basketball and soccer.
The Children’s Hospital via Wikimedia Commons
He was working for someone in Human Resources who knew someone who worked in the Child Life department at Children's. What type of benefits does Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh offer? They offer health insurance, health benefits and paid vacations. The Children’s Hospital is a great place to work for both John and me!
Pittverse 30
Of Tribbles and Troubadours: Celebrating the 50th Anniversary of Star Trek and The Monkees by Thomas R. Skidmore and Michael Kurland
I
n September of 1966 the face of American television was changed forever, when the NBC Network premiered two cult-classic, award-nominated TV shows. One was an intellectual-based, action-driven science fiction series about the human condition, and the other was a rock-music sitcom inspired by the Beatles, the biggest band of the time. On September 8, Star Trek made its debut with an adventure titled “Where No Man Has Gone Before.” It launched the careers of actors William Shatner and Leonard Nimoy to now-iconic status. Theirs was a bond that stood the test of time itself. A week later, NBC aired the premiere of the rock music comedy The Monkees, which featured the exploits of a struggling band trying to make it in the business. It was the forerunner of what later would become MTV, which fused video and music in a way no other medium has ever done before.
project, and Rafelson and Schneider took the concept to Columbia Pictures’ Screen Gems television division. At once Screen Gems accepted the pitch, and the race was on. The casting call for the main roles was arduous, with actors and musicians coming and going at a fast rate. One of the rejected musicians was a young singersongwriter-guitarist named Stephen Stills (who later achieved his own fame with Buffalo Springfield, and CSNY), who recommended his long-time friend and fellow musician Peter Tork. Tork was accepted almost right away, and soon a 19-yearold Englishman named David “Davy” Jones (1945-2012) was the next sign-on, followed by 20year-old former child actor Micky Dolenz (who heard of the role via his agent).
Monkee Business:
The last member, and the most memorable audition, was a 22year-old singer-musician from Texas named Michael Nesmith. Mike arrived wearing a wool green cap, and he displayed a droll, blasé sense of humor which quickly led to his being accepted for the part in The Monkees.
In 1962, aspiring filmmakers Bert Schneider and Bob Rafelson pitched to Universal Television their idea of a comedy about a rock band, which the studio promptly rejected. The Schneider/ Rafelson project languished for two years, until in 1964 the pair saw the landmark Beatles film A Hard Day’s Night. The film resparked enthusiasm for the TV
A problem rose for the young quartet, as only Jones knew how to play the drums. He played well, but his short height proved challenging for the crew. Thus the part of drummer was handed to Dolenz (who only knew guitar and piano). After being taught the rudimentary fundamentals of playing their instruments (Tork and Nesmith actually were multi-
At the time, no one knew just how monumental these programs were to become . . .
instrumentalists), the road was laid out. Within a year, The Monkees hit the streets running. Music supervisor Don Kirshner was brought aboard to craft songs for the Monkees to sing (and only sing) for the show; the music for the songs were actually played by session musicians called The Wrecking Crew, which featured future country superstar Glen Campbell. Kirshner hired songwriters Tommy Boyce and Bobby Hart, among others, to write songs that captured the spirit of early Beatlemania. The first, “Last Train to Clarksville,” went all the way to No. 1 on the Billboard charts. It was followed by “I’m A Believer,” “A Little Bit Me, A Little Bit You,” and many others. After the show premiered and met with great success, Screen Gems encouraged the Monkees to go on the road as a real touring band, but they in fact had little time to gel as a group. Nonetheless, the concert tours were widely applauded by rabid fans and gave the young quartet a morale boost. Since Nesmith and Tork actually were musicians, they grew incensed over the pre-manufactured music made for their show and in February 1967, the Monkees struck against Kirsnher. They demanded to record their own songs as a true group (with Nesmith ramming his fist into a wall to drive home the point) and with the producers’ support, the fictional Monkees became the real deal . . .
Phoebe Snow’s Daughter by Daniel H. Ashkin
D
octors often misdiagnose babies’ futures when babies are born with a birth defect as in the case of Phoebe Snow’s daughter, Valerie. The doctors thought that Phoebe’s daughter should live in an institution. When Valerie was born, the newborn suffered a catastrophic accident. After the birth of her daughter, the hospital strongly recommended that her newborn to be put into a mental hospital rather than staying at Phoebe’s house. She stubbornly refused to let Valerie become nurtured through a mental environment. Phoebe’s daughter had severe brain damage and was physically disabled through her 31 years of life. Raising Valerie was a challenging adventure for Phoebe Snow. Learning opera greatly aided Phoebe Snow in her singing and love for her daughter. By learning to sing opera, she could actually extend into Valerie’s non-silent world. Living together became one of her greatest obstacles to overcome in life. Steve interviewed Phoebe Snow during the 80’s. Steve broadcasted for CBS News for many years. When he chatted with Phoebe, she was pleasant, enthusiastic, and living life to its fullest. He held a birthday party for Valerie when she turned 18. At Valerie’s Party, she placed smiles on the five year old children at the party. Valerie loved the clowns and the balloons at the party. After Valerie’s death, Phoebe Snow suffered severe depression. However, Linda Ronstadt, who was a very excellent friend, insist-
ed that Phoebe Snow start singing as a way to stop feeling remorseful about her. Before each concert, she expresses the story about her wonderful daughter to the audience as a tribute. She sang for Howard Stern’s wedding in 2009. Ironically, Linda Ronstadt is suffering Parkinson Disease. She had to give up her singing career because of the disease. However, she still writes books on her experiences as a singer. In addition, Linda Ronstadt does not feel sorry for herself like Phoebe Snow. They both share a common bond. They don’t give up on their life. Writing an essay is a worthy approach to convey your feelings about loved ones who died in your life. For an example, writing about my father helps me appreciate how he was caring, sympathetic, and compassionate, like the story of Phoebe Snow. Before each concert, she shares her story with the audience. I tribute to Phoebe Snow much dedication, honor, and bravery in bringing up Valerie’s’ death during her concerts as the tribute to her rough life. She wanted to give Valerie a normal life despite impossible odds. For an example, the mentally disabled should become part of our society like everybody else. Phoebe Snow sang “You are my Girl” which was written by Phoebe Snow. She sang the song at the Rochester Lilac Music Festival in New York in 2007. On stage, she sings the song with empathy, compassion, and gratitude toward her daughter while wearing a blanket around her shoulders.
When she is singing, the audience can see her deep facial expressions of love and sadness for her daughter. Watching the body language of a singer can show how much she really misses her daughter. I strongly recommend that the audience watch her body language when she is singing her songs on youtube.com. Phoebe Snow sings each song with emotion and compassion. Unfortunately, Phoebe Snow died of a massive stroke when she reached 60 years old. When I listen to her voice, she is a terrific singer. When a tragedy occurs to love ones, the house contains many symbols and objects, which remind us of our love ones, as in the story of Phoebe Snow. Phoebe Snow sings about the kitchen table and the glowing light in the song “Never Letter Go.” I think the kitchen table represents the joy and happiness in her relationship with her daughter before her daughter died. The lights signify shines of her daughter’s curly hair and smile of laughter. For an example, the den house signifies the conversation that I had with my grandparents. When I pass the Westinghouse Building in Churchill, I always think of my father’s compassion and caring. When Phoebe shared Valerie’s story, she wanted the public to know how a disabled person can become a loving member in this society. What type of symbols in your house represents someone you love?
Pittverse 32
Magdalene Laundries An Interpretation of the Song by Joni Mitchell by Daniel H. Ashkin
M
agdalene Laundries was written by Joni Mitchell. Magdalene was a church sanctuary for pregnant and unmarried women in the country of Ireland. The country sentenced prostitutes to this sanctuary. In 1972, the asylum closed its doors. When the land was sold in 1996, the construction firm found 133 gravesites of dead women.
and priests treated the young women in the asylum. For an example, Joni Mitchell describes the thought of the women diary of the account how the priest and nuns chained group of them. In addition, the nuns force the girls
Joni Mitchell describes am account of the women’s experiences life in the song of Magdalene Laundries. The site was owned by Sisters of Charity in Dublin, in 1970s, the church sold the land back to the Republic for land use. When Ireland began building the memorial, they found that 133 graves sites were unmark. The new memorial is helping our society to understand the barbaric, cruel, and harsh treatment of the girls in Magdalene Laundries. With the understanding of this place, we may likely uncover the allegations of hell that women suffer in this barbaric prison.
Joni Mitchell via Wikimedia Commons
Furthermore, the song teaches us that our society must learn how to accept people whose moral values that are unlike than those of the normal range of society in the body of God’s Laws in the bible. When Joni Mitchell is singing the song, the women describe how the nuns
to work long days in the laundry room as a punishment. At night, the nuns, who work at the asylum, whipped the girls as retribution. In summary, one may likely ask, “How can a person of God treat a person without any type of mercy and forgiveness?”
As I listen to the Magdalene Laundries a few times by Joni Mitchell, I must learn to become more tolerated of people whose life style may not always fall into Gods’ doctrine. The Magdalene laundry teaches our society that we must learn how to pardon prostitutes, unwed mothers, and sinful acts of adultery. In our modern society, we have no authorization to murder anybody unless they slaughter another person. Unless the human race is able to disregard other person’s wrongdoings, man may likely become a barbarian creature. The most important lesson in this misfortune, when should our society question God’s authority in people? Should our society obey God’s Laws of adultery in the Old Testament word by word? Where the town’s people right when the nuns started whipping the young girls in the asylum? Should the town-people be held responsible for the hundreds of deaths and exploitation of the young women? When society ignores corruption, we become a creation of it. In conclusion, Joni Mitchell believes that society should speak up about the injustices of the world. Mankind is accountability for its own moral authority.
How would you feel if the government arrested your wife for an abortion…? Would you support you wife decision on an abortion…? Before our society makes a rational judgment on God’s law, we must look at the family view on the situation of unwed mothers. In the next few years, the United States of America may likely arrest women who undergo an abortion under our new president. What type of punishment should they receive under the states…? How would you feel that a woman undergo 20 years of prison for an abortion?
Magdalene Laundries lyrics I was an unmarried girl I'd just turned twenty-seven When they sent me to the sisters For the way men looked at me Branded as a jezebel I knew I was not bound for Heaven I'd be cast in shame Into the Magdalene laundries * Most girls come here pregnant Some by their own fathers Bridget got that belly By her parish priest We're trying to get things white as snow All of us woe-begotten-daughters In the steaming stains Of the Magdalene laundries Prostitutes and destitutes And temptresses like me Fallen women Sentenced into dreamless drudgery Why do they call this heartless place Our Lady of Charity? Oh charity! These bloodless brides of Jesus If they had just once glimpsed their groom Then they'd know and they'd drop the stones Concealed behind their rosaries They wilt the grass they walk upon They leech the light out of a room They'd like to drive us down the drain At the Magdalene laundries
Joni Mitchell via Wikimedia Commons
Peg O'Connell died today She was a cheeky girl A flirt They just stuffed her in a hole! Surely to God you'd think at least some bells should ring! One day I'm going to die here too And they'll plant me in the dirt Like some lame bulb That never blooms come any spring Not any spring No, not any spring Not any spring
Pittverse 34
Becoming Older in American Society by Daniel H. Ashkin
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s the water drips slowly down the drain, she remembers her lovely life fading away as the walls become dimmer. The walls become more blurry as water continues to drip down the old sink. If you could look in her pretty eyes, you could see beautiful lines of color in her face. In many ways, love can become a temporary game that acts like stone rock. In contrast, the mineral can only be broken by sharing a nice man in her life who shares a relationship and sees her as a person. Unfortunately, our society portrays women as sex objects rather than persons who have feelings and values.
media is only concerned with affluence; they see elderly people as less marketable to buy a product than younger persons. Furthermore, society overlooks people with disabilities and persons with Asperger’s like me. Do older men suffer peer pressure of getting old as women do in our society? When we are watching television commercials, the media are more concerned about making money than accepting people who are older than age. For example, money-making industry frequently sells
How does our society see women today? They repeatedly see them as sexual objects that must compete for a date. For an example, television, movies, and magazines regularly use young women to advertise their products to our society. When female actors get old, they are regularly via Wikimedia Commons unnoticed in our wicked, advertisements about baldness, hungry, selfish society of wealth virago, fitness, and vitamins. I and power. In many ways, the feel that the media fails to the dripping water reminds the target older population. Mature women loneliness and years people are not imprudent as the fading away off in her life. media portrays them. Elderly Unfortunately, our society does people can paint, lecture, tutor not respect older American about music, and volunteer at women as young females in other hospitals. The money-making cultures do in this world. industries are persuading middle aged people to feel younger Unfortunately, we all get older through money-making products and unattractive as the years fade such as vitamins, cure for away throughout our lifetime. baldness, weight control, and Why does our media respect this fitness. fact about our lives? Perhaps, our
Furthermore, society overlooks people with disabilities and persons with Asperger’s like me. Suffering TMJ is also an awful experience for me. . TMJ is a crushing pain which affects my jaw, neck, and arms. My mother always says, “You must learn to overcome your excruciating pain and go to work like everybody else. How do you go to work when you can’t move your arms in cold weather outside?” Unfortunately, we live in a world where every employee must oblige by the same standards as does a normal person in the world. Counselors and parents expect me to obey their standards. Accepting my physical disability is not always concise. It is full of much duplicity in my life. When you suffer Asperger’s symptoms throughout your life, you are fearful of looking at pictures of your bald hair and looking at yourself. Seeing the young people working and going to college makes me feel out of position in our society because the media always targets the younger audience. When we get older as an adult, the media does not always treat us with respect and kindness. Fighting to achieve everyday tasks is a constant struggle for me due to my physical disability. When people put pressure on me to perform like everyone else, accepting my physical disability is not always clear in stone. Since I suffer Asperger’s, seeing myself as grey is extremely difficult for me.
The Story of My Father, Martin Ashkin by Daniel H. Ashkin
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ppreciation for knowledge is a satisfying thing in life until it suddenly leaves your body like a bolt of fire in a mighty flash. Securing your information gives a person confidence and personal selfsatisfaction as in the story of my father. In this essay, I will discuss the positive strengths of my father’s character through trying to assist me to become a more compassionate person. My fathers’ name is Martin Ashkin. He received a physics degree at Harvard University in Boston. When he was spending time at home, he was required to write physic reports for his boss. He also read Scientific America and he bought the New York Times on Sunday. When he was listening to classical music at home, he sat down on a comfortable chair in the living room. Many people respected his expert knowledge from receiving a PhD in physics and as a physicist through his scientific papers. Today, I am thankful for my father’s gratitude, appreciation, and kindness toward me. For an example, he assisted me in my algebra and science homework. He devoted much of his time in taking me to the orthodontist during his work time. In addition, he took me to therapy appointments after school. Furthermore, he wanted me to become more sociable at school through making friends. My father took me to listen to the Pittsburgh Sympathy on Saturday nights. On Sunday afternoons, he
watched the Pittsburgh Steelers games with my brother and me. Helping my family cut the grass, pull weeds out of the garden, and rake the leaves enabled me to become a more helpful person later in life. Helping your father helps you appreciate him better when he gets sick. I feel that every child should assist their parents in chores. Dedication, commitment, and gratitude come in many positive traits when your father suffers from a severe form of Parkinson disease. Volunteering enables me to show more affection, compassion, and kindness to other persons who are in terrible pain like my father. When a person suffers terrible agony, it is very important to stay away from lecturing to them about their behavior. Two, never gossip to other friends about them. I volunteered at Peoples’ Oakland assisting a girl in learning math skills. I also volunteer at the Habit for Humanity, helping them raise money to build houses for low income families. When I visited the nursing home, Dad told me, “please don’t worry about me,” and added, “worry about you.” Seeing my father’s brain begin to deteriorate horrified me deeply. How can a wicked disease destroy all the neurons for thinking and making decisions? I cried profusely looking at him in a vegetative state. As a young adult, I often visited my father frequently on Sundays. Before the week he died, my father lay quietly in a Catholic nursing home with a feeding
tube. The snowflakes fell silently down onto the trees and the grass outside the room where he lay motionless. The wind blew hard from the mightily northwest with a shrieking howl. The color of the bed sheets appeared as a white glow around the room. The walls of the room appeared to glow as blue. I strolled softly over to father’s face and gave him and kiss of love. I cried profusely into my father’s arms as the cold wind blew with an angry growl outside the room. I walked down the dreary, prehistoric hallway until I reached my car in the parking lot. My car was covered with a light blanket of snow, and I removed snow off the windshield.
Through our life experiences, we learn that life is like a mountain climber who goes up a steep mountain to reach the top of the summit. Unfortunately, some climbers suffer severe accidents along the way going up the slope of the mountain, like my father. Cars and trucks go up the slippery, snow covered hill and may slam off the road as in my father’s case when he developed a severe case of Parkinson Disease. When a baby is born, he or she is given a good chromosome or a corrupt chromosome by luck of the dice. When God gives you unlucky trait, you may likely develop a genetic disease like my father did. Even though my dad develops this disease, he was still able to live happy, fulfilling life.
Pittverse 36
A Self-Esteem Personal Note by J.D.C. “I SHOULD NEVER EVER GIVE UP, as a human being, neither, plus, in always attempting to like myself, in terms of better and more improved self-esteem. I need to always personally remember this true statement, literally, yes, indeed, in that, just like anyone else who had ever lived, or whom is still physically alive, there is no other person exactly like myself, on the face of this Earth!!! I also need to quit being so hard on myself, because, as is the case with other people, individually, self-criticism is the harshest and potentially the most selfdestructive behavior, CHRISTFORBID-IT, IN THE FUTURE! I should never ever continue dwelling on all of my personal shortcomings, because it is NEVER EVER HEALTHY, as with anyone else, to do this totally negative activity. Instead, I also need to focus more, on my positive personal strengths. I ALSO BELIEVE THE GOOD LORD JESUS CHRIST, OUR LORD, MASTER, and ETERNALLY PERFECT SAVIOR, as do both of my parents, including our INNOCENT and DEARLY BELOVED PET COMPANION ANIMAL ANGELS and WILD ANIMALS, YES, INDEED, LITERALLY and TRULY SO, PERFECTLY and BEAUTIFULLY, LOVES and LIVES, ON THE INSIDE of, EACH and EVERY ONE of US, FOREVER and EVER!!! THIS IS TRUTH!!!
AN
ETERNAL
LITERALLY!!!
sues.
AMEN!!! AMEN!!! AMEN!!!
Still, as we all read and personally are all individually acutely, painfully, that is, and emotionally, and individually aware of, for example, as a diagnosed OCD sufferer myself, stigma is still around in society, in general, regarding mental illness. This is a sad shame.
This was written, with much, literally true, HEARTFELT LOVE, yes, indeed, for ALL of you, also, too, Dearly Beloved and Innocent Pet Companion Animal Angel Babies!!! AMEN!!! In addition, this essay was written for ALL other living creatures, including PLANTS, other than humans and angels, that is, and Your Importance, By A Supernatural Divine Intervention Ordination, Yes, Indeed, Literally and Truly so, FOREVER and EVER, IMMACULATELY, WONDERFULLY, GLORIOUSLY, PERFECTLY, and BEAUTIFULLY, SOME DAY!!! AMEN!!! Finally, it was written to allow others who may not be personally aware of the complex nature of neurological brain disorders, such as OCD, or ObsessiveCompulsive Disorder. As is mentioned beforehand, this brain disorder is very bad, an internal bully, really, sadly. However, it is a treatable condition, similar to diabetes, cancer, heart disease, including high bad, or LDL (Low Density Lipoproteins) blood lipid cholesterol levels, high blood pressure, high blood lipid triglyceride levels, as well as depression, Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD), plus many other physical, really all of them being biological in nature, emotional, and psychological mental health illness is-
Before the 20th century, mental illness was, universally, that is, literally, in both Christian and secular community circles, viewed, as always, a clear sign of demonic possession, in the individual sufferers. This egregious perspective was NOT ALWAYS LITERALLY TRUE!!! This just meant the individuals were usually being tormented by inborn mental health disorders of various kinds of verbal and/or nonverbal severity, which, really had nothing to do, often times, with demon possession. However, due to a major lack of collective understanding regarding the underlying nature of mental illnesses, in a myriad of forms, public awareness of this still always controversial topic, was seen as being the direct fault of the sufferers themselves, when, in actual and literal reality, they had nothing to do with the overall development of their individual and collective daily struggles. The Bible’s Text Verse, from Proverbs 20:30, Says, “BEATINGS and BRUISED BLOWS WILL DRIVE THE EVIL, OUT of A DISOBEDIENT PERSON”, meaning even those, who are mentally disturbed, though, they, by and large, are not demonized individuals.
However, given the literal truth that the Bible, was written thousands of years ago, LITERALLY, THROUGH HUMAN HANDS, THROUGH LITERAL DIVINE INTERVENTION INSPIRATION, FROM JESUS, WHO WE BELIEVE, LITERALLY DIED IN ALL HUMANS’ PLACE, FOR ALL HUMAN SIN, JEW and GENTILE ALIKE, SO WHEN WE INDIVIDUALLY, THROUGH A SALVATION PRAYER, REPENT, of ALL of OUR SINS, FROM PHYSICAL BIRTH, and ARE, LITERALLY, SAVED, FROM AN ETERNITY, of LITERALLY FIERY TORMENT, IN Hell, FOREVER and EVER!!!, AS WE ARE TOLD, IN ST. JOHN 14:6, “I AM THE WAY, THE TRUTH, and THE LIFE, NO ONE COMES, TO THE HEAVENLY FATHER, except THROUGH ME, INDEED!!!”, FROM JESUS HIMSELF, OUR LORD, MASTER, and SAVIOR, LITERALLY!!!”, when slavery, male chauvinism, or female sexism, racism, and prideful economic discrimination, were common place and widely acceptable world cultural behaviors, despite being ethically, morally, and theologically sinful human attitudes and behaviors, which are LITERAL ANTI-CHRIST and AWFUL HUMAN BEHAVIORS, INDEED, UNIVERSALLY, IN WHICH JESUS WOULD NEVER EVER CONDONE, LITERALLY, which, regrettably, are still with us, today, globally, among many other evils, except that, of mental illnesses, in various kinds and levels, of severity, both verbally and/ or non-verbally, meaning human body language, included. Mental illnesses, in general, literally, are not evil, and usually, if not completely, are certainly not direct indications, of a person, being truly demon-possessed, at all.
As was literally true, for centuries,
is still literally true today, even in the 21st century. Most people, with a diagnosed or an undiagnosed mental illness, or even a combination of them, are NOT violent “human ticking time bombs”, “human live wires”, nor “human loose cannons”, who are about to explode, with harsh verbal and/or physical violent tirades, even, tragically, with guns, knives, bombs, automobiles, baseball bats, and other weapons of mass destruction, potentially. As is the overall literal reality, such individuals, as myself, and countless others, similar to myself or not, personally struggling with physically invisible mental health disabilities, are MORE LIKELY, CHRIST-FORBID-IT, IN THE FUTURE, yes, indeed, literally and truly so, TO BECOME VICTIMS of VIOLENT and/or non-VIOLENT CRIME, than be themselves the actual PERPETRATORS, or SUSPECTS. Although, there are horrendous exceptions to the rule, sadly, as we have read about, in the local newspapers, seen on the TV news, heard on the radio news, and both read and seen, on the internet news, over the years, and recently. Some Day, mental illness stigma will no longer be an ongoing, or chronic problem, just like war, poverty, racism, sexism, general human hatred, anti-religious movements, including against Christianity, murder, suicide, including abortion, which is really legalized murder, like it or not, literally, physician assisted suicide, which is also actually legalized murder twisted around, also like it or not, literally, genocide and terrorism, which is actually spiritual or non-spiritual mass murder, of a certain ethnic group and/or race of people, horrific
cruelty towards Innocent and Helpless Wild and Domesticated Pet Companion and/or Service Work Animals of ALL Known Special and Literally ULTIMATE SUPERNATURAL DIVINE DEITY+CREATED SPECIAL SPECIES, BREEDS, and MIXED BREEDS ALIKE, such as domestic dogs, cats, horses, elephants, whales, dolphins, and, horribly, many others, when, according to Biblical Prophecies, which are still being fulfilled and even, yet to be fulfilled, LITERALLY, including JESUS’ TRIUMPHANT RETURN, TO THE EARTH, or also called CHRIST’S SECOND ADVENT, When He Will Destroy Satan and all other evil beings and demonic entities, opposing Him and His Heavenly Father’s and The Holy Spirit’s Kingdom and PERFECTLY and BEAUTIFULLY RESTORE THE GARDEN of EDEN PARADISE, ON THE EARTH, Yes, Indeed, Literally and Truly So, which will then be FREE, FROM ALL of THE ABOVE MENTIONED MORAL WRONGS and EVILS, which have scarred the world, for centuries, beginning with the sinful rebellion of our original parents named Adam and Eve, against THE CREATOR, of ALL LIVING THINGS, in the original Garden of Eden, so long ago, as described, in The Holy Bible’s 1st Book of Genesis, including the tragic fall of Lucifer and 1/3 of Heaven’s other original angels, who have free will personal choices, as did Adam and Eve, the unfallen angels, including all of us humans, meaning both Jew and Gentile alike, in the ongoing decision, meaning, in the personal daily pattern, to either obey or to disobey Our Creator!!! Literally and Truly So!!! Now and Forever!!! Yes, Indeed!!! AMEN!!! Pittverse 38
Our Creator WILL NEVER EVER Restore Satan and the other demons. Shockingly and chillingly true, literally, Satan and the other demons still retain perfect individual knowledge of The Bible. If they were on a television Bible quiz show, they would automatically answer each question asked by the TV show host or hostess, right down to the exact book, chapter, and verse. They perfectly understand Jesus IS Personally and Perfectly and LITERALLY Lord Always Over them, but He is not their individual and collective Lord over them. Jesus Has, Literally, Perfect Control, Over All of them, Forever and EVER!!! AMEN!!! However, Satan and the rest of the demons will never give up their evil intent to do as much damage to the earthly Kingdom of God, plus they will never abandon their awful quest to both deceive and ruin the individual eternal lives, of as many unfallen angels and unsaved humans, whom are Created, In The Lord’s Image, as they possibly can do so. CHRIST-FORBID-IT, SOME DAY, LITERALLY, FOREVER and EVER!!! Yes, Indeed!!! Literally and Truly So!!! AMEN!!! PERFECT PEACE and HARMONY WILL THUS BE HERE, SOME DAY, FOREVER and EVER!!! AMEN!!! The Holy Week is the Christian period of time, that is, between Palm Sunday and Easter Resurrection Sunday. It commemorates the annual observance, of the Profound Passion and Agonizing Suffering, Our Lord Jesus Christ Endured 2,000 years ago, which IS totally beyond literal human knowledge and comprehension!!!
This is, in terms of, the physical,
emotional, psychological, spiritual realms!!!
and
Never before, as well as, never ever again, Jesus, Literally, Experienced being separated, from His Heavenly Father, for roughly nine horrible hours, on a Roman Crucifixion Cross Piece, at a place called Golgotha, or in the Aramaic language, translated into English, is known as, “The Place of The Skull”, while being crucified, between two thieves. Jesus, Literally, Experienced hell, for each and every one of us humans, whether Jew or Gentile, so that none of us would have to personally go there, for all eternity if we, individually, that is, through The Literal Divine Deity Intervention of The Holy Spirit, Whom Is The Third Member, of The Triune Trinity Godhead, yes, indeed, are internally convicted, of our individual original sins, from our personal physical births, to the moment we become spiritually aware, of our hopeless and desperate helplessness, in being able to ever save our own selves, from our sins and from hell itself, literally, that we are individually convinced, of our individual need, of a True and Living Savior, Whom IS THE LORD JESUS CHRIST HIMSELF!!! AMEN!!! Of all of the religious founders and philosophers, throughout history and recorded time, Only JESUS CHRIST LITERALLY CAME BACK, FROM BEING PHYSICALLY DEAD, and IS NOT IN HIS TOMB!!! THIS IS WHAT CHRISTIANS CELEBRATE, ON EASTER SUNDAY!!! AMEN!!! THE HEAVENLY FATHER and THE HOLY SPIRIT BOTH TEAMED UP 2,000 years ago, to LITERALLY RAISE JESUS CHRIST, GOD-THE SON and OUR LORD, FROM PHYSICAL DEATH TO ETERNAL LIFE!!!
JESUS IS ALIVE and HE IS SEATED, AT THE FATHER GOD’S RIGHTEOUS RIGHT HAND, FOREVER and EVER!!! Yes, Indeed!!! Literally and Truly So!!! AMEN!!! Jesus even Forgave Judas Iscariot, Pontius Pilate, the Roman soldiers beating Him, and, later, who crucified Him, the people spitting on Him, and verbally cursing Him, on His painful journey, to Calvary, Caiaphas, the rest of the unbelieving Jewish scribes, Pharisees, Sadducees, elders, and rabbis, who opposed Him, betrayed Him, and sentenced Him to death, by crucifixion, which was and still is, the most painful and humiliating manner, of execution death. Jesus Forgave Peter, who had denied he even knew Jesus, THRICE, or three times. The Lord also Forgave Thomas, for his lack of faith, in personally believing He was Alive, after His Resurrection. Jesus First Appeared to Mary Magdalene, who was a former prostitute, and whom Jesus Casted Out seven demons out of her, and she went on to be one of His most devoted female disciples, both during and after Jesus’ Earthly Ministry. The Samaritan woman, at the well, in St. John’s Gospel account, who was living in adultery with a man, she was not legally married to, and who was divorced five times beforehand, or a handful of previous times, Was Given a new chance on life, By Jesus not only Forgiving her, of her sins, plus Revealing to her, His DEITY!!! This was, at a time and era, when women were viewed, as subordinates, in every area of 1st century Jewish and Gentile life. Women, just like children, were viewed, as equal to innocent domestic work/service animal species, such as, donkeys, dogs, cats,
bulls, cows, goats, sheep, and geese. In a literal true sense, both groups were meant to only be physically seen and NOT HEARD, meaning women and children had virtually NO INDIVIDUAL RIGHTS of their own, in regards to men. Sadly, this mentality carried on, well into the 20th century, as if it were justified, even if women and children were abused, in any way, shape, or form, by men, globally, just like the above mentioned innocent animal species, as well as, innocent captive wildlife animal species, such as elephants, tigers, lions, chimpanzees, bonobos, gorillas, orangutans, monkeys of various types, as well as, many others, both human and subhuman alike. This was before better laws were passed, internationally, that is, in most parts of the world, including here, in the USA, in order, to protect these vulnerable portions of global society, including the elderly, at large. However, unfortunately, in many parts of the world, even today, these reprehensible actions still take place and are justified, even by the law, in many countries, including Iran, where it is strictly forbidden, for example, to legally take care of a dog, because of the radical anti-dog Islamic religious laws, which are awfully shoved onto the average citizens, of the nation, which was known as Persia, in ancient times. Jesus Was and, Still IS, THE LITERAL TRUE PERFECT WOMEN’S EQUAL RIGHTS ACTIVIST!!! The unknown criminal being crucified, to OUR LORD’S RIGHT HAND SIDE, at CALVARY, on GOOD FRIDAY, was literally convicted, of his urgent need, to be Forgiven, of all of his sins, and, thus, he was convinced of his need of Jesus Forgiving him, of all of
his past rebellious acts, in his earthly life, as we are told, in St. Luke’s Gospel account. For example, in St. Luke 23:43, Jesus Perfectly Declared, to this criminal, “I Assure you, that Today, you shall be with Me, In Paradise!!!” Yes, indeed, this Literally did occur, as Did Jesus’ Ascension, Back Into Heaven!!! AMEN!!! Then, in the Bible’s 66th and Final book, in Revelation, or, in the Greek language translation, The Apocalypse, JESUS WILL END ALL EVIL and WICKEDNESS, FOREVER and EVER, while PERFECTLY and BEAUTIFULLY RECREATING EVERY LIVING CREATURE, from the Beginning of time, on A PERFECT and FULLY HOLY HEAVEN, on the Earth, SOME DAY, Yes, Indeed, Literally and Truly So, Including ALL INNOCENT ANIMALS, plus ALL of our families INNOCENT and DEARLY BELOVED PET COMPANION ANIMALS!!!
LY SO, WE ALL ALSO INDIVIDUALLY BELIEVE, AT HOME, AS WELL AS, COUNTLESS OTHERS, AROUND THE WORLD, AS ETERNAL and DEVOTED ANIMAL and PET ADMIRERS, THAT, ALL of YOU, HAVE PERFECT SUPERNATURAL DIVINE DEITY-INSPIRED LIVING IMMORTAL SOULS, WHO LIVE ON, IN HEAVENLY PARADISE, ALSO, TOO, FOREVER and EVER, JUST LIKE ANY OTHER LIVING CREATURE, BEING, and ENTITY, THROUGHOUT THE ENTIRE UNIVERSE and ON THE EARTH, BOTH NOW and FOREVER and EVER!!! YES, INDEED!!! LITERALLY and TRULY SO!!! AMEN!!! AMEN!!! AMEN!!! SINCERELY WRITTEN BY, JDC P.S.
SINCERELY WRITTEN BY,
O’ HEAVENLY, HALOED and CHERUB+WINGED PET ANIMAL ANGELS and LAMBS of GOD, YES, INDEED, IT IS EVERLASTINGLY GOING TO BE OKAY, FOR ALL of YOU, ALSO, TOO, FOREVER and EVER!!!
JDC
AMEN!!! AMEN!!! AMEN!!!”
Post-script:
P.S.
“WE BELIEVE THAT ALL INNOCENT ANIMALS, BOTH WILD ANIMALS and DOMESTICATED PETS ALIKE, AUTOMATICALLY GO TO HEAVENLY PARADISE, WITH JESUS PERFECTLY, INTIMATELY, GLORIOUSLY, WONDERFULLY, and BEAUTIFULLY, FOREVER and EVER!!!
“IN AN IMAGINARY TWIST of LITERAL INNOCENT ANIMAL+LOVING ADMIRATION, ALL HAIL, TO THE NEXT CANINE 45TH PRESIDENT of THE USA, A CHOCOLATE LABRADOR RETRIEVER, NAMED DUKE HERSHEY BROWN, C.M.D.”
AMEN!!! AMEN!!! AMEN!!! We all individually, at our home, also, too, believe this to be ETERNALLY TRUE!!!”
WONDERFULLY, YES, INDEED, LITERALLY and TRU-
“IN JESUS’ PERFECT NAME, WE ALL PRAY IN, LITERALLY,”
“AMEN!!!”
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In Memoriam:
CARRIE FISHER by Thomas R. Skidmore
O
n December 27, 2016, film The Blues Brothers (where legendary pop-culture she repeatedly attempted to elimicon, noted writer, and inate Jake and Elwood), the 1981 health advocate Carrie bomb Under the Rainbow, and Fisher died of complications from the 1989 horror comedy The a heart attack at the Ronald ‘Burbs alongside Tom Hanks. Reagan UCLA Medical Center, surrounded by her Carrie Fisher family and friends. The ac1956—2016 tress was just 60 years old. She was born in 1956, the daughter of screen legend Debbie Reynolds and popular singer Eddie Fisher, and had a bit of a tumultuous life. In her late teens, she won her first major acting role in the 1975 Warren Beatty film Shampoo. This was soon followed, of course, by her landing the role that made her a major star: the fearless and feisty Princess Leia in the landmark 1977 science fantasy epic Star Wars; Carrie would reprise the role in The Empire Strikes Back (1980), Return of the Jedi in 1983 (her slave girl outfit is now considered a status of her exotic good via Wikimedia Commons looks), 2015’s The Force Awakens, and the upcoming Star Wars: Episode VIII (which will be her last ever In 1987, Carrie branched out into film role). writing when she published the comedic semi-autobiographical Other film roles include a semispeaking part in the 1980 comedy
novel Postcards From the Edge. The novel went on to become a number-one bestseller, and this was soon followed by such tongue -in-cheek novels as Surrender the Pink and Delusions of Grandma. She wrote the screenplay for the 1990 film version of Postcards From the Edge, which became a commercial hit at the box office. Over the course of her life and career, Carrie has admitted to suffering for years with bipolar depression as well as drug and alcohol addiction. That led her to open activism on behalf of others afflicted with the same issues, using her trademark humor and biting sarcastic wit along the way. True to her colorful nature, Carrie wrote in one of her later books titled Wishful Drinking, “I want it reported that I drowned in moonlight, strangled by my own bra.”
Carrie Fisher is gone from the “real” physical realm but she’ll always be “one with the Force.”
Star Wars Memory: The scene where Han Solo realizes that Princess Leah and Luke are sister and brother was one of the greatest. His surprise and joy was the best. In that scene, the future he wanted the most suddenly became real. I was listening to NPR yesterday and heard that the actress Carrie Fisher, the actress who played Princess Leah, and Harrison Ford were ACTUALLY having an affair while the film as being made. That explains the super chemistry. That is a cool movie fact that people are learning about just now, during the 40th Anniversary because Carrie Fisher is publishing her diary... a steaming love affair with Harrison Ford, 40 years ago! -Kenneth Miller
Michael Kurland in a Rebel Pilot uniform via StarWars.com.
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Recipe for Mocha Chocolate Cake by MJ Devine
Ingredients:
For Cake 4 tablespoons butter, softened 1 cup brown sugar 2 large eggs 2 ounces semi-sweet chocolate (1/4 cup), melted and cooled 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 cup all purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking soda 1/8 teaspoon salt 1/2 cup creamer 1 cup hot coffee For Glaze 1/4 cup hot coffee 2 tablespoons butter, melted 2 teaspoons vanilla extract 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar 2/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
Instructions:
1. Cream together butter and brown sugar in a large mixing bowl. Add in eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Add in vanilla extract and melted chocolate. Mix again. 2. Combine flour, baking soda and salt. 3. Alternating, add in flour mixture and creamer, starting and ending with flour. 4. Stir prepared coffee into cake batter. 5. Pour batter into a greased and floured 9 inch round cake pan. Bake in a preheated 350 degree oven for 3235 minutes, until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. 6. Remove from oven and let cool on cooling rack for 30 minutes before turning cake out. Let cake cool completely on cooling rack before icing. 7. prepare glaze 8. Combine and Stir butter and vanilla into prepared coffee. 9. Sift powdered sugar and cocoa powder into a large bowl or measuring cup. Pour coffee mixture into powdered sugar/cocoa and stir with a whisk until completely combined and smooth. 10. Pour glaze over cooled cake, letting it drip down sides. Use a toothpick to pop any air bubbles that form. Let glaze completely set before serving. 11. Serve with fresh whipped cream. 12. Store cake in the refrigerator.
Notes:
When storing cake, do not cover with plastic wrap. Use foil to create a tent over cake. If anything touches the glaze, it will cause the glaze to melt.
STAR TREK Phase II: The Untold Voyages, An In-Depth Analysis by Michael Kurland, Kenneth Miller, and Nature f.f. Aura Part III. Redirecting The Future: From “Phase II” To “The Motion Picture” When Gene Roddenberry presented the pitch of the pilot episode “In Thy Image” to Paramount executives, Michael Eisner apparently said, “This story’s too good for a TV pilot. This belongs on the big screen!” In a way, Gene was actually excited for the chance to bring his creation to the movies, but that wouldn’t be easy. Fortunately, he had help in the form of the film’s uncredited Executive Producer, Jeffery Katzenberg. According to Jeff, “I was actually working for Paramount TV at the time, and I moved back to the feature film department to make sure that Gene had everything he needed to make this happen.” Help would also come in the form of veteran director Robert Wise, who was a man who could tackle any film genre.
visor John Dykstra later stated, “It was definitely an impressive model, but I wished they made it a bit bigger than they did, because we had to commission a special periscope lens in order to get certain shots of the ship.” The dry dock sequence (above) was one of the most impressive in terms of all the effects, the actors’ reactions, and the final
“Bob [Wise] had had a really bad day with the effects. He came by and said, ‘Nothing’s really working. I hope you’ve got some good news for me.’ And the head of Paramount music was there and we had rehearsed this on two pianos and played Bob the revised score. He lit up and said, ‘That’s it!’ It was like, ‘why didn’t you come up with that in the first place?’ So that was the painful origin of the Motion Picture theme.” That same theme would later be used to open Star Trek: The Next Generation. Now with the score in place, Robert Wise, Jeffery Katzenberg & Gene Roddenberry focused their attention on finishing the film in time for its release. Wise later lamented, “This was the only film I did where I didn’t get a chance to preview it.”
Regardless, after the film premiered in Washington, DC, it proved to be a big hit at the box office, earning over $150 million worldHowever, with a release date set wide. After five television incarnafor December of 1979, as Wise tions, 13 motion pictures, and a 6th recalled, “We actually had to start TV series in developshooting on the film before the third and The United States Postal Service recognized the 50th Anniversary of Star ment, it looks like final act of the screen- Trek with four Forever stamps. The show first aired on September 8, even 50 years later, play was finished.” 1966. "Episodes alluded to the Cold War, Vietnam, the population explo- Gene Roddenberry’s Regardless, on August sion, the growing generation gap, and race relations." Visit the post office vision will hopefully for a sheet of the Star Trek Forever stamps. Star Trek Forever stamps a continue to “live long 7, 1978, the cameras more exciting stamp option than flag stamps or holiday stamps. and prosper.” finally started rolling, and appropriately enough, the first piece to come into place: the musi- STAR TREK Created by Gene Rodmoment to be filmed was Kirk’s cal score composed by Academy denberry and is ™ and © CBS/ entrance onto the bridge. Award-winner Jerry Goldsmith. Paramount Studios The company of Magicam conAs Goldsmith recalled, the early Star Trek: The Motion Picture is © structed several miniatures and sessions weren’t quite what Robert 1979 CBS/Paramount Studios models for filming, the most imWise wanted. “I asked him what portant of which was the newly was wrong. And finally he said “To boldly go where no one has refurbished USS Enterprise. Fin‘There’s no theme!’ I had written gone before…” ished, the model was about 9 feet the love theme for Decker and Ilia, long and featured a lot of detail but I realized that there was no Celebrating 50 Years of STA R from an intricate internal lighting ‘Star Trek’ theme!” It took about TREK (1966-2016) system to the impressive paint job. 10 days before Jerry finally came For Gene RoddenHowever, as visual effects superup with it. And according to him, berry (1921-1991) Pittverse 44
Skidmore’s Sci Fi Spotlight: JACK VANCE: Master of the Dying Earth by Thomas R. Skidmore JOHN HOLBROOK “JACK” VANCE (August 28, 1918--May 26, 2013) was an award-winning science fiction/fantasy author chiefly known for his sprawling saga of the Dying Earth. In addition, he was a noted fan of Dixieland jazz music (playing kazoo, harmonica, and banjo) as well as a sailing buff. Among his many fans was rock singer Robert Palmer.
Set eons after the demise of civilization and the rise of magic on the barren planet, Vance weaved a tale that told of human endurance amidst an inevitable demise, yet laced with an outlook described as fatalistic and gloomy. The Dying Earth saga lasted from 1950 until 1984, winning numerous awards including the Hugo, the World Fantasy Award,
Jack’s parents divorced when he was young, and his mother took him and his siblings to his family ranch, instilling in him a love of the outdoors which also would shape his future writings. Born with bad eyesight, he was unable to serve in World War II but did join the Merchant Marines, where he discovered his love of sailing as well as his talent for writing. Vance admitted to being a science fiction fan since childhood; among his influences were Edgar Rice via Wikimedia Commons Burroughs, L. Frank Baum, Clark Ashton and the Nebula. In 1997, he was Smith, and the pulp SF magazines named Grand Master of Science Weird Tales and Amazing Stories. Fiction and in 2001, Jack was It was during his Merchant Marine inducted into the Science Fiction stint that Jack wrote his first sci- Hall of Fame. ence fiction story, “The World- In addition to his award-winning Thinker” for Thrilling Wonder science fiction, Jack won an EdStories in 1945. From there, his gar award for his 1961 mystery true path was laid out and Jack novel The Man in the Cage. But jumped on it. In 1950, he began as much as he liked writing myswhat would become his life’s teries, Vance’s real literary home opus, The Dying Earth. was science fiction and fantasy, and he frequently celebrated his
love for the fantastic genre. Away from writing he delved into his love of Dixieland music, and he wrote reviews of jazz bands and albums. In the 1980s, he became a fan of the late rock singer Robert Palmer (who, in turn, was a fan of Vance’s stories) and even mentioned Palmer in one of his later stories. Continually afflicted with bad eyesight, he was declared legally blind yet he continued his successful career with the aid of advanced computer software. He published his last novel Lurulu in 2004, and in 2010 his Hugo-winning memoir This is Me, Jack Vance! was published. Old age crept up on Jack, finally taking him on May 26, 2013. He died at his home in Oakland, California, at the age of 96, surrounded by his family and friends. The SF community paid sincere tribute to Jack Vance, describing him as “one of the greatest science fiction and fantasy writers of the 20th Century.” Jack Vance may be gone and ultimately forgotten but like those who came before, the tales of wonder and scope likely will stay with huminite till there really is a Dying Earth . . .
Dark Knight, Steel City by Thomas R. Skidmore While the city of steel sleeps away, the element named Evil stirs and finally awakes. Comprised of crime, sorrow, and decay, he gleefully delights in the lost souls he takes.
For ever countless time does the element reign over all, not giving a care at all about Life.
His was the city’s torturous, begotten bane, and all their hopes he slaughters with his knife!
But unknown to him, the steel city’s cries for aid and comfort have not gone totally unheeded. A silent dark Knight shall now arise, his black wings ready for flight and his presence needed.
Like his kin Satan, the Evil knows in his cold heart that the final judgment dawns ahead. The Knight takes to battle, the truth he must hold. And the skies shall turn a dark hue of red . . .
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Skidmore’s Music Review
The Monkees: Good Times! by Thomas R. Skidmore
G
ood Times! is the latest and most successful studio album from the famous pop-rock group The Monkees, to commemorate the 50th Anniversary of the band’s musical debut, and their popular TV series airing from September 1966 to August 1968. The band currently consists of surviving members Michael Nesmith, Peter Tork, and Micky Dolenz, as well as an unearthed recording by the late Davy Jones. The record has earned rave reviews, going all the way up to #14 on the Billboard charts and #1 on the Vinyl Albums charts.
time Micky significantly played drums in over 20 years. The lone Davy Jones song, called “Love to Love” (written by Neil Diamond) was recorded in 1967 for a proposed third album to be produced by one-time music supervisor (and long-standing nemesis) Don Kirshner; that planned album was scrapped upon Kirsh-
Produced by indie-rock musician Adam Schlesinger of Death Cab for Cutie, the 14 songs were the results of contributions from such indie-rock luminaries as Rivers Cuomo, Andy Partridge of XTC fame, the late Harry Nilsson via Wikipedia (who wrote the title track), Paul Weller of the Style Council and Noel Gal- ner’s firing, resulting in the Monlagher of Oasis infamy. kees’ first true record Headquarters. In addition, the Monkees themselves contribute songs as well as The album ranges from ‘60s-style instrumentation, such as Peter California surf pop (as heard in Tork’s melancholic “Little Girl” “She Makes Me Laugh”) and and Dolenz’s peppy “I Was There rockabilly (“Gotta Give It Time”) (And I’m Told I Had a Good to early prog-rock (“Birth of an Time),” which marked the first Accidental Hipster”), and even
covers country folk, such as Nesmith’s self-composed introspective song “I Know What I Know” and Peter Tork’s handling of the Gerry Goffin/Carole King composition “I Wasn’t Born to Follow.” There’s even a bonus track written by Tork’s brother Nicholas Thorkelson, called “A Better World.” Good Times! is a truly exciting breath of fresh musical air, and a reason to celebrate the magic and the music of the Monkees. In the era of AutoTune-based songs with the now-common banal lyrics, I can say with joy that as a thirtyyear Monkees fan, this is one album that cannot come highly recommended enough.
Visiting Your Family Elders by Kevin Hart
I
t's a good idea to visit grandparents whenever possible. They'll start to worry about you and what's going on in your life. It's important to go visit them on your days off work or have a lot of free time on your hands. They will enjoy the company, as you can help them out with something. We can clean, cook, get the mail, etc. for them when they can't do it. We can errands for them like: getting food for them at the store, prescriptions, taking them to doctor appointments, etc. then they won't have to worry about it later.
via pixabay
Some grandparents are unable to care for themselves, so they have a choice between nursing homes, move in with family, having someone there to assist to their everyday needs, etc. so its very important to visit them whenever possible because they can't do everything on their own that much anymore.
Pittverse 48
Interview with Matt Kastner from N Stuff Instrument Music Shop by David O’Rorey
I
interviewed Matt Kastner from 'N Stuff about drums and drumming. He works in the drums and percussion section of the store.
Matt has been playing drums for 24 years, since he was 6 years old. He likes both electronic drums if you’re looking to practice in your home and don't want to disturb neighbors or for studio recordings, but for live performances, he prefers the real thing. It just depends on the situation, as Matt stated to me.
He plays in a band for a woman named "Lady Stark." She is similar to Lady Gaga. Matt's favorite classic drummer was the drummer from Rush, Neil Peart, when he was a kid. He knows a lot about music. He has a good knowledge of drummers and artists from 70s and 80s bands. Matt's favorite artist now would be Ghost from Sweden, Hellstorm, or Nightwish from Finland. He said "you can accom-
via Wikimedia Commons
plish anything, even learning to drum, if you are dedicated." Matt enjoys all kinds of music since he had an excellent understanding of different types of music.
FUGITOR: THE TIME ESCAPEE by Thomas R. Skidmore Thirteenth Installment “Marlena!” I called out loudly. Not surprisingly, she turned about to face me. She wasn’t exactly angry, but her demeanor definitely didn’t show any sign of warm friendliness whatsoever.
“What do you want now, Tony?” she asked tersely. I remained on the calm side of the issue, but I had to move forth with my resolve. “We need to have a chat. Now,” I firmly said. Shrugging her shoulders in weary resignation, she eyed my strong English features intently.
“Okay, Tony, let’s chat.” Her tone of voice was quite cold, to say the least. To say the most, it was quite harsh, albeit somewhat incongruous coming from such a lovely young woman.
Swiftly (though not in my usual manner) I got straight on to the point.
After a few minutes of this unexpected love story, Leslie floated his way around to us.
“I know what’s been depressing you and I wish for you to know that well, I really am beginning to like you immensely. In fact, I’m actually becoming rather attracted to you, but I just didn’t want to admit that because of my demeanor, and the type of personality I am. I do hope you can understand all this.”
“Ahem. Sorry to interrupt your little lovey-dovey moment, but shouldn’t we got going before too long? By the way, thanks for taking my advice, Tony.”
I didn’t readily notice this at first, but her old happy-go-lucky demeanor had rapidly coursed her way throughout her features. Then she sped up to me and with a cry of joyous relief, commenced to embrace the living stuffings out of me, and then planted a rather passionate kiss on my mouth. What’s even more strange is that I actually welcomed it!
via publicdomainpictures.net
“Look, Leslie’s right, Marlena. We really should go.” Having gotten as prepared as much as humanly possible, we then set off on the next, and hopefully routine part of our sojourn. Once more, I re-formed the forcefield screen about ourselves and in a zip of time we found ourselves airborne, then space-borne! As I stated scant moments ago, I hoped the next part was routine. Of course, as these things usually go, that little wish was definitely not to be . . . To be continued...
Pittverse 50
Pokémon Stories by Michelle Middlemiss Continued From Pittverse Issue 3, Volume 2 (Fall 2016)
…....…Episode.3…..….. Orange arrives at Petalburg City and goes into Mr. Norman's gym. Wally comes in to ask for a Pokémon, and Mr. Norman lets Orange borrow one too. They go into the tall grass and Wally finds a Ralts! Using Zigzagoon's help, Wally throws a poke ball and successfully catches the Ralts. Wally and Orange go back to the gym. Once there, Mr Norman tells Orange to go to Rosbury City to meet the gym leader Roxanne, as well as all of the other gym leaders. Orange sets off on Route 104 to meet the gym leaders. On his journey he encounters the Pokémon Seedot, Windgull, and catches a Taillow. He also battles the trainer Rich Boy Winston. Orange also has to travel through the Petalburg Woods, where he is challenged by Bug Catcher Lyle. After successfully battling Bug Catcher Lyle, Devon Scientist is ambushed by Team Aqua and hides behind Or-
ange. Orange battles Team Aqua's Poochyena with his Pokémon nicknamed Pads and Finn. After Team Aqua's defeat, the Scientist gives Orange Experience Share to express his gratitude. Experience Shares enables all the Pokémon in Orange's party to gain experience points during each Pokémon battle. This is very helpful for the Pokémon to level up faster. Orange continues his journey through the woods, picking berries as he sees them.
……..Episode.4..….….. Orange wins a battle with the trainer Lady Cindy. Orange goes into a shop called the Pretty Petal Flower Shop. In there, he talks to a little girl and gets berries. After his stop to the shop, Orange has to participate in his first double battle with a set of twins. The twins each get to send out a Pokémon and Orange gets to use 2 Pokémon at the same time against them. Orange also gets challenged by a Fisherman on his journey. He finds the item X De-
fense while he is walking as well. Orange has now arrived at Rustboro City. He enters Cutter's house and finds HM01 Cut. This a very useful move that certain Pokémon can learn that can be used also out of battles. When it's not used in battle, it can be used to cut down trees. Orange goes to the Trainer School and learns about different badges. He enters the Pokémon Gym and speaks to Gym Leader Roxanne. If Orange can defeat Roxanne than he will win the Stone Badge! Roxanne is a rock type Pokémon trainer. He has to beat a few of her other gym trainers before he can battle Roxanne herself. Orange and his Pokémon win their battles and are ready to battle Roxanne. Roxanne uses the Pokémon Geodude and then Nosepass. After an intense battle, Orange receives his first the official Pokémon League Stone Badge and the TM Rock Tomb.
Introduction to Lark’s Timeline by Michelle Middlemiss The Marvel universe timeline first started when Stan Lee began his comics. It’s one of the most complicated timelines I’ve at least come into. Next to DC Comics and Pokémon, that is. (I won’t get to Pokémon’s timeline in this paper) But for Lark that’s not needed for her character development, so there’s no point in getting into that. One of the reasons I created Lark is to bring people into the comics who have only seen the movies. There are other reasons like rpg’s but that’s neither here nor there. So in the next issue I will show you the whole timeline I made for Lark and her family. To be continued…
The Children’s War: Fifth Installment of Lark’s Story by Michelle Middlemiss Disclaimer: I do not own Marvel. I do not get paid for my story. The character Lark is my own creation. 2007 Subway “Okay the bus was weird but this is just humiliating.” Xavin said as the three got on and actually found seats.
“There’s no other way I’m afraid. I mean didn’t you ever take the subway to school?” Lark said quietly looking at the crazy kid who was swinging upside down on the baggage compartment. Lark’s instincts told her that she should help this kid before he breaks his head open. But then she saw a soldier with a gun looking at them. Avenger’s Mansion The three walked up to where the mansion used to be. They put a
flower on the feet of Captain Marvel’s statue before going to the ones they were to meet. To their shock (which of course Lark looked stone faced) it was Johnny and Sue Storm. A defensive electric field formed around Trigerlet (Lark); Hulkling and Xavin turned into their Skrull form.
“Take it easy you three. We’re the ones you were to meet!” Johnny said, holding his hands up to show that he had no weapons. Slowly they took down their guard and Trigerlet looked at them. “If that’s true then give me the disk and go. We’ll tell Captain America that you helped.” Lark said as part of her mind started to ache.
Sue gave her the disk then whispered to her brother that they should go before they were attacked. The three watched as they left; glad that it was over with. They started to walk back to the subway when Trigerlet found she could no longer move. “Guys run now before its too late.” Trigerlet said, but then lightning flashed in the sky. Or she hoped it was lightning, but it was really S.H.I.E.L.D Helicopters coming into view. Instead of running, Xavin and Hulking formed a protective barrier around Trigerlet’s front and back. The soldiers were coming down from the sky. Trigerlet, no longer able to move, watched helplessly as her friends were doing their best to fight off their attackers.
Pittverse 52
As the soldiers started to fall, Trigerlet was starting to think they were going to actually win this thing after all. That was when Hill’s voice shouted out for the rest of the Avengers to help. That was how Hill had stopped Trigerlet from moving. Iron Man and his Cloners were there too. This made her blood boil over, which caused her to let go of her electric powers and ripped through some of the guards. This action caused her to fall on her knees in pain and exhaustion from what happened.
dy trying to look stone faced at what was happening.
Hulkling ran to her and picked her up, ready to fly her out of there when he felt a pain run down his body. He looked at the Kree thing that had attacked them when they were in Los Angeles. Trigerlet swore under her breath as the Kree’s ray gun hit Xavin in his back, hoping to give Hulkling and Trigerlet time to escape. They were way outnumbered. Trigerlet saw that there was no hope for escape but the three were going down with a fight.
“You’ve turned into what you once fought. Do you really think turning us into bargaining chips
Trigerlet watched as Xavin went down as the Kree started to wear him down. Hulkling wasn’t doing much better keeping Iron Man from getting near him or Trigerlet with that knock out sound thing. Both of their bloodstreams rejected any knockout drugs that there were at this point. But sound was one of their weaknesses; Trigerlet and Hulkling’s ears are about ten times more sensitive to sound than normal ears. “You know Teddy; I shouldn’t have listened to Captain when he didn’t want the Kree to take you. Well I’m going to remedy that now. When you wake up you’ll be on your way home.” Iron Man said this as he raised his arm with Ted-
Trigerlet’s eyes widened as she realized what was going on. Tony had made deals with the enemies not to attack during the Civil War. In Trigerlet’s mind this was crossing all moral boundaries that a hero put up. Morals that keep them from turning into what they were fighting. So even if they are to break a human law, at least they had something to fall back on.
throwing up.
Avengers Tower First thing Lark noticed when she woke up was the bed. She had actually thought she was going to wake up on the floor. Second thing was that Teddy and Billy were in beds on either side of her. She tried to feel where Xavin had gone but couldn’t; that was when she realized her telepathic powers were gone. Damn, she had so much wished that last night had just been a very, very bad nightmare. She wanted to throw up again when she fully remembered what was going on. There was a bandage around her left hand where the teleportation device used to be. Also, when she reached up there was a bandage around her head. “We had to put a new and better chip in, plus do you really think we’d keep the teleportation device?” Hill said cold as ice as she looked at Lark.
will stop the Krees and the Skrulls or giving me and Billy to Umar will stop her?” Trigerlet yelled. This really was a new low! Yet in the back of her mind was the reason Captain had chosen them; they either had Royal blood or were Skrulls. This conclusion would make anyone stop and think, but what Iron Man was doing was not what any sane hero ever did before. The last thing Trigerlet saw was her friends being loaded into the helicopter; the last thing she remembered of that night was
First thought that came into Lark’s mind was that she was a doe caught in a hunter’s illegal trap. Second, she wished she wasn’t tied to said bed or she would rip that grin off Hill’s face. “Oh, if you’re wondering why you can’t talk it’s because Umar wanted yours and Billy’s tongues cut out. Fortunately for you Iron Man was able to talk her into allowing him to just develop a chip that only lets you talk at times.” Hill said, petting Lark’s head as if she were a pet. Lark looked over at her two friends, nodding at them, hoping
Hill would get the idea. Which to her relief she did. “They will be fine too. We just wanted to keep you three from finding any way of escape, so only one of you would be awake at a time.” Hill said this and it really wanted to make Lark throw up. “Hill, I hope you aren’t questioning Lark yet; Tony said to give her a couple more days to heal.” Lark looked over to see Yellow Jacket standing by the door. “She’s awake. Tony said all I had to do was push one of the buttons then I could talk to her.” “Hill, the only reason Lark is up is that her body burns the medicine fast. Now leave so I can give her
Heinz Field in the Snow via Wikimedia Commons
something to calm her down and put her back to sleep. Her brain patterns are all over the place.” “Hank, you’re not showing empathy for those traitors are you?” Hill asked. “Hill, they are kids first and for most that’s why Tony made the deals he did. Yes, the fact that I’ve known Lark off and on her whole life plays into that, but that’s the way it is with most of Cap’s team. But unlike the adults, they don’t have much say about what’s going on.” Yellow Jacket said as he walked over to Lark’s I.V. and injected the calming drugs.
over her. He did the same with Teddy and Billy. Lark felt the warmth of the pillow as they slept and she drifted back to sleep. “Remember Yellow Jacket, this is wartime, don’t let your sympathy for your old friends and their brats get to you again.” Hill said this as she left the room, leaving Hank to wonder if Peter Parker was right about questioning if they were on the right side of this war. Or had Captain been right all along? He would have to talk to Janet when he got home. To be continued…
He also carefully turned Lark over and pulled the blankets up
Pittverse 54
From the Future With Love by Sarah Lehman To my fellow Freedom Guard members: For many years, you have known me as Harbinger—the world’s first metahuman, and one of its greatest heroes. However, there are many things you do not know about me, though I am sure you have often wondered. Where did I come from? How did I get my powers? Why did I choose the path of a superheroine? Now, I believe the time to tell you has come. What I am about to reveal may sound ‘impossible.’ But don’t forget, ever since I was first seen by the passengers of Flight 1110, ‘impossible’ doesn’t have the same meaning. Think of all the heroes and villains that have sprung up—Periastron, Big Rig, K-9, Ghost Blade, Dr. Ruin, the Outsiders, Global Might, I could go on and on. How much of what they can do, and have done, was considered impossible before I came along? But I digress. My story begins in the year 2X19. I was 25 years old, and working at Orion Labs, located in what will be Kaden City. Also working there was Dr. Christian Night, who was in charge of a project investigating a potential new source of energy. However, during an experiment, something went wrong with the equipment, and Dr. Night was almost killed. At least, I thought he was going to be killed. In any case, I ran in and pushed him out of harm’s way, only to be caught in the blast myself. When I awoke, I found myself in the year 20XX, in the custody of US officials. They had found me at the site of what they believed to be an explosion, and brought me in for questioning. Naturally, I freaked out, and in the process of escaping, discovered the powers I had gained. At first, I thought I had simply gained the same powers as Harbinger, but upon learning the date, the astonishing truth became clear— one of the heroes I had been reading about in history class was me! I do not yet know if this truly is my world, or if one branched off from the other, but my presence altered things, for better or worse. Before I came along, lab accidents tended to result in serious injury or death, the Sigma Gene was unheard of, and magic was a thing of fairytales and fantasy novels. Not to mention, places like Aeaea and Pereginia could only be found in science fiction, as far as we know. But I’ll be honest with you—no matter how much I changed things for you, I don’t regret any of the choices I’ve made. And even if I could return to my own time, I don’t think I really want to—at least, not permanently. Makes you think, doesn’t it?
From the/a possible future, with love, Harbinger
via Wikimedia Commons
10 Awesome Video Games for Non-Portable Systems by Sarah Lehman 10. PokĂŠmon Colosseum 9. Super Mario Galaxy 8. Super Smash Bros Melee 7. PokĂŠmon XD: Gale of Darkness 6. The Legend of Zelda: Wind Waker 5. Shin Megami Tensei: Persona 3 via Wikimedia Commons
4. Shin Megami Tensei: Nocturne 3. Super Smash Bros Brawl 2. Shin Megami Tensei: Persona 4 1. Super Smash Bros. for Wii U (Note: These are not in any particular order)
Top 10 Holiday Movies by Sara Brooks 1. Eloise at Christmas Time 2. The Muppet Christmas Carol 3. Beauty & the Beast 2: The Enchanted Christmas 4. Mickey's Magical Christmas Snowed In
at the House of Mouse 5. The Holiday 6. White Christmas 7. Frosty the Snowman via Wikipedia
8. Santa Clause is Coming to Town 9. Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer 10. Disney Princess A Christmas of Enchantment Pittverse 56
Top 15 Cover Songs
by David O’Rorey 1. Robert Palmer - I Dream Of Wires (Gary Numan Cover Song) 2. Robert Palmer - Me! I Disconnect From You (Gary Numan Cover Song) 3. Pat Benatar - I Need A Lover (John Cougar Mellancamp Cover Song) 4. Pat Benatar - No You Don't (Sweet Cover Song) 5. Pat Benatar - You Better Run (The Young Rascals Cover Song) 6. Disturbed - Land Of Confusion (Genesis Cover Song) 7. Disturbed - Shout (Tears For Fears Cover Song) 8. Deadsy - Replicas (Gary Numan Cover Song) 9. Fear Factory - Cars (Gary Numan Cover Song) 10. Devo - (I Can't Get No) Satisfaction (Stones Cover Song) 11. Five Finger Death Punch - Bad Company (Bad Company Cover Song) 12. The Go-Go's - Cool Jerk (The Capitols Cover Song) 13. The Runaways - Rock N' Roll (Lou Reed Cover Song) 14. Alien Ant Farm - Smooth Criminal (Michael Jackson Cover Song) 15. Devo - Head Like A Hole (NIN Cover Song)
via Wikimedia Commons
via Wikimedia Commons
Top 10 Monkees Songs by Thomas R. Skidmore 1. “Last Train to Clarksville” (from The Monkees, released August 1966) 2. “Pleasant Valley Sunday” (from Pisces, Aquarius, Capricorn, & Jones, Ltd., released October 1967) 3. “Shades of Grey” (from Headquarters, released May 1967) 4. “I’m A Believer” (single released December 1966, later on More of the Monkees) 5. “Circle Sky” (1996 version from Justus) 6. “Listen to the Band” (from The Monkees Present, released October 1969) 7. “Daydream Believer” (from The Birds, The Bees, and the Monkees; original single released December 1967) 8. “That Was Then, This Is Now” (from Then and Now: The Best of the Monkees, released May 1986) 9. “Birth of an Accidental Hipster” (from Good Times! released June 2016) 10. “Sweet Young Thing” (from The Monkees, released August 1966) Pittverse 58
Youth Advocate Programs (YAP) currently has programs in 17 states and serves 25 major US cities as well as dozens of other urban, suburban, and rural communities. By tapping into the strengths and capabilities of the 10,000 families we serve each year, our 2,000+ YAP staff members, and the capacity of communities, YAP affects positive change. YAP has developed unique service delivery principles that guide our work with youth and families involved in the Juvenile Justice, Child Welfare, Behavioral Health, and Education systems. Our staff, who reside in or near the neighborhoods they serve, work non-traditional, flexible hours and are accessible 24/7. Our demonstrated ability to recruit and energize indigenous resident leaders within neighborhoods is another unique element of our success. External evaluations of YAP confirm the validity of our approach. Our model has also been cited by several external bodies, including the Annie E. Casey Foundation, as a “promising practice” in providing effective alternatives to institutional care. Since our agency opened, YAP has experienced rapid growth. We have broadened our scope of services and increased our capacity to service more children, youth, families, and adults—including those who have not succeeded with traditional services. We continue to explore new opportunities to demonstrate our unique and effective community-based alternatives to out-of-home placements.
PITTVERSE WRITERS Delaine Swearman
Kenneth Miller
Bryan Lippert
Daniel Ashkin
Thomas Skidmore
J.D.C.
Sara Brooks
Michael Kurland
Nature f.f. Aura
M.J. Devine
Kevin Hart
David O’Rorey
Mike Levenson
Max Chaney
Mike Perret
Sarah Lehman
Mark Sulkin
Michelle Middlemiss
The Pittverse Magazine is made possible in part through the generous support of the Edith L. Trees Charitable Trust.
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