My Brother Wayne, his wife Nancy and their children Tara(sitting) and Christine. 

My Niece Tracy 

Time for some more family photos, here's my Nephew James looking stylist in his grade eight grad gown. 

Tarot Card Reading- The Week Of Sept 8-14

The Question:"Will this week be a successful one?"

Review of the ten card Celtic Spread.

The the deck is first spread out face down in the middle of the table and mixed up thoroughly. The cards are then gathered and played out one card at a time, face up as follows.

The Celtic Cross spread is one of the most common tarot spreads. There is a cross in the center, with a row of 4 cards along the side. This spread will provide a fairly in-depth look at a situation including past, present and external influences. Beginners may want to start with a spread with fewer cards.

Here is the reading.

Six of Wands
YOUR DEDICATION AND HARD WORK PAYS OFF, YOU WILL BE INLINE FOR A PROMOTION OR A NEW BUSINESS VENTURE.

Crossing: Opposing forces

King of Swords
SOMEONE WILL BE OPPOSING YOU, AND YOUR GOALS, MAKE SURE YOU FOLLOW ALL THE RULES AND DO ALL THINGS RIGHT OR YOU COULD PAY A PRICE. BE CAREFUL WITH THINGS RELATED TO LAW OR LEGAL ISSUES.

Foundation: Past basis

Three of Pentacles
YOU WILL HAVE SUCCESS WITH A SKILL OR ABILITY, AND YOU WILL BE NEGOTIATING AND PLANNING YOUR WAY OUT OF A SITUATION.

Behind You: Passing influences

Queen of Wands
YOU WILL BE SPENDING A GREAT DEAL OF TIME SOCIALIZING WITH OTHER PEOPLE AT THIS TIME, YOU MAY ALSO FIND YOURSELF AMONG PETS OR ANIMALS.

Crowining: Possible future

Page of Pentacles
NEWS OR MESSAGES OF MONEY COMES UNEXPECTEDLY, YOU WILL ALSO BE EXPERIENCING VIVID DREAMS.

Before You: Soon to come

Justice
YOUR LIFE MAY BE SUSPENDED WHILE A DECISION OR JUDGMENT IS RENDER IN YOUR FAVOR, THIS WILL BRING YOU WHAT YOU NEED OR ARE LOOKING FOR.

Hopes: Goals or aspirations

The Hermit
YOU MAY BE SPENDING TIME ALONE OR IN SOLITUDE, REFLECTING, AND LEARNING, THIS WILL SOON PASS, AND YOU WILL TIE UP LOOSE ENDS, FINISH PROJECTS, AND PLAN AHEAD FOR YOUR FUTURE.

Opinions: What others think

Knight of Pentacles
THERE IS AN UNEXPECTED BUSINESS TRIP, OR NON-BUSINESS TRAVEL, THERE IS ALSO THE POSSIBILITY THAT YOU WILL BE MOVING IN THE FUTURE.

Feelings: Fears

The Moon
DECEPTIONS ARE BEING USED AGAINST YOU, AND SECRETS ARE BEING KEPT FROM YOU, NOT ALL THAT YOU SEE IS REAL, BE CAREFUL.

Outcome: Resolution

Page of Wands
YOU WILL RECEIVE AN IMPORTANT MESSAGE OR NEWS, THIS MAY DEAL WITH YOUR JOB OR FIELD OF STUDY, YOU WILL BE INVOLVED IN SOCIAL ACTIVITIES.

Quintessence:

The Wheel of Fortune
RECOGNIZE YOUR PURPOSE, AND DEDICATE YOURSELF, YOU HAVE THE POWER AND SKILL TO MASTER ANY SITUATION.

Kanye West Blows A Gasket On National TV

Rapper Kanye West in a promotional TV appearance with Mike Meyers for the NBC telethon to raise money for Katrina victims decided to disgrace himself by ignoring the prepared script they were asked to take turns reading describing the breach in the levees around New Orleans and going off on some racist rant.

The transcript went like this,

Myers: The landscape of the city has changed dramatically, tragically and perhaps irreversibly. There is now over 25 feet of water where there was once city streets and thriving neighborhoods.

West: I hate the way they portray us in the media. You see a black family, it says, "They're looting." You see a white family, it says, "They're looking for food." And, you know, it's been five days [waiting for federal help] because most of the people are black. And even for me to complain about it, I would be a hypocrite because I've tried to turn away from the TV because it's too hard to watch. I've even been shopping before even giving a donation, so now I'm calling my business manager right now to see what is the biggest amount I can give, and just to imagine if I was down there, and those are my people down there. So anybody out there that wants to do anything that we can help -- with the way America is set up to help the poor, the black people, the less well-off, as slow as possible. I mean, the Red Cross is doing everything they can. We already realize a lot of people that could help are at war right now, fighting another way -- and they've given them permission to go down and shoot us!

(This is why all live events run on a 30 second delay, to cut clowns like this off. Instead the network chimps fell asleep and did a great job in allowing a professional like Myers to look like an idiot.)

(West throws back to Myers who tries to stick with the script, but looks noticably uncomfortable)

Myers: And subtle, but in many ways even more profoundly devastating, is the lasting damage to the survivors' will to rebuild and remain in the area. The destruction of the spirit of the people of southern Louisiana and Mississippi may end up being the most tragic loss of all.

(Wait! the idiots not through spewing!)

West: George Bush doesn't care about black people!

(Back to Myers, who now looks as if he could die)

Myers: Please call . . .

At which point someone at NBC News finally regained control and cut over to Chris Tucker, who did his job and read from the script.

Kanye West needs to be "bitch" slapped silly by someone like Oprah or Celine Dion who are showing genuine care and using their celebrity status for the purpose of helping ALL the victims of this unfortunate tradgedy. These people have openly expressed their displeasure towards George Bush's total lack of compassion for the people of Louisianna, but in a way that doesn't show their ignorance to the facts.

We all hurt regardless of race when jerks like West spew this kind of hatred.

Later,
Kenaz

New Playlist Created at The Eternal Kenaz

Bessie Smith -I Ain't Got Nobody - Downhearted Blues 3:10
Billie Holiday- When Your Smiling- Billie Holiday-Golden Greats 2:50
Bonnie Raitt-My First Night Alone Without You - Bonnie Raitt-Bonnie Raitt Collection 3:03
Buck Rodgers - TheChaseAfterKillerKane Ep 03 - 1939 10:30
Buddy Guy -My Time After A While-The Chess Story 1947-1975 (1962-1964) (Disc 10) 3:01
Chandu the Magician - Arenia The Spider - 09-16-48
Eric Clapton -Nobody Knows You When You're Down And Out - Unplugged 3:49
First Night Presents - Chocolate Soldier - Oscar Scott play 14:31
Flash Gordon - Trapped Behind The Iron Door - 1935-09-28 14:40
GUNSMOKE - -Born To Hang - 55-04-23 27:25
HauntedTalesof theSupernatural - Keeping His Promise - 19xx 28:05
Hopalong Cassidy - Hoppy Elects A Sheriff - 1952 26:28
Horatio Hornblower-CS Forester - Dutches and the Devil - ep 05-with Nigel Anthony 29:15
Inner Sanctum - The Man Who Couldnt Die - 19xx 29:25
Air Adventures of Jimmy Allen - ep418 - 1936 14:58
Journey To The Centre OfT The Earth - The Mysterious Dagger - Part7 26:37
Theater of Romance-My Man Godfrey - 46-10-02 29:52
The Saint - Death of a Cowboy - July 1, 1951 28:13
Tales of the Texas Rangers - Candy Man - Ep 09 29:10
Tarzan- ep.1 Tarzans First Birthday - 1932-09-12 10:13
The Cisco Kid - ep 052-Beserk - 53-01-15 28:03
The Maltese Falcon- Academy Award Theater- 46-07-03 27:29
The Whistler - OTR - Ep09 - 07-11

Later,
Kenaz

Vintage Movie Review:Requium For A Heavyweight(1962)

I just caught this incredible classic movie for the second time this morning on MPIX and it didn't disapoint. Anthony Quinn plays "Mountain Rivera" a boxer at the end of his career after a knock out by Cassius Clay in the seventh round. His left eye is one punch from permanent trauma, his ears turned to cauliflower, his speech slurred from "being hit a million times," and he slings punches anytime he hears a bell, but his trainer and 'cutman' Army (Mickey Rooney), and Miss Miller(Julie Harris), a manipulative social worker, support his illusion that he could be a movie usher, a camp counselor, or a romantic partner for Miller. But his manager Maish Rennick(Jackie Gleason), knowing the truth, can't admit that he's bet everything he had that Rivera wouldn't go four rounds against Clay. Maish will pay with his life when the goon squad comes to collect if he can't persuade Rivera to abandon his pride ("I fought 111 fights and never took a dive") and agree to a wrestling contract of which he's ashamed. When Maish blurts out his secret, Rivera realizes that walking out on the deal is not an option. To save the neck of the man who's betrayed him, he embraces the humiliating role of wrestling as "Big Chief Mountain Rivera," and the illusion of comeraderie among the three men is gone forever.

Adapted from Rod Serling's earlier `Playhouse 90' TV drama, it improved greatly on the original which I saw about five years ago, by taking full advantage of the film medium, including moody film-noir lighting, an excellent music score, and superb direction. Anthony Quinn is excellent, squeezing every once of melodrama into the role without overdoing it. Mickey Rooney and Jackie Gleason, neither of whom is renowned for subtlety and restraint, hit just the right note in their performances, as does Julie Harris.

The movie also offers great cameos from the boxers and of the past, as mentioned Cassius Clay (later Mohamad Ali) plays himself. Others include greats Willie Pepp and Jack Dempsey, mid 1930s welterweight champion Barney Ross, Gus Lesnevich who held the light heavyweight boxing championship from 1941-1948, Rory Calhoun II who boxed as a middleweight from 1954 to 1962. Abraman Simon, the last Jewish fighter to fight for the heavyweight championship in 1942. As a side note Simon knocked out future heavyweight champ Jersey Joe Walcott in 6 rounds. The great announcer Arthur Mercante and ledgendary wrestling character William 'Haystacks' Calhoun add uncredited performances.

A couple of memorable character actors lend their talents to this film in a scene near the end of the film a mob boss and "her" goon pay a visit to Mountain in his dressing room before his debut as a wrestler. Madame Spivy is truly memorable as Ma Greeny as her hulking figure almost overshadows Gleasons and Michael Conrad playes the heavy as he did all his career including Requium and a three year stint on Hill Street Blues as Sgt. Phil Esterhaus. His face maybe not the most recognizable but his slow and deliberate cadance will surly bring back memories expecially fans of Bugs Bunny, as he delivers his line "Now back away see, that's it, nice and slow".

If you like boxing movies than I definetly believe this and Raging Bull should be in your collection. I spent a long time as an extra on the set of Cinderella Man and I couldn't help notice how much Ron Howard pays homage to these great classics. The camera angles, use of differing film speeds and the characters, including the brooding but likable heel (Crowe), the sympathetic trainer(Giamatti)and the leeches who prayed of the unfortunate all show up in the film, which is also noteworthy as a good boxing film but a better human drama.

Later,
Kenaz

Bob Rue, left, owner of an oriental rug business, stands in the doorway next to a makeshift warning sign he directed at looters in New Orleans.

(AP Photo/Shreveport Times, Jessica Leigh)
 

Singer Harry Connick Jr., a New Orleans native, prays over two dead bodies outside the New Orleans Convention Center. Connick said a friend told him about the desperate conditions at the center and he came to see for himself.

(AP Photo/Houston Chronicle, Melissa Phillip)
 

Relief For Hurricane Katrina Victims Finally On Their Way

Here are a couple of good stories for a change relating to the relief efforts in New Orleans.

Greg Norman Offers The Use of His Helicopter


Golfer Greg Norman sent his helicopter to Louisiana Friday, and said it will stay there for as long as a month. His pilot, Gary Hogan, will fly medical supplies and other items into the region. The helicopter can carry about 1,000 pounds of supplies and shuttle small groups of people.

After Katrina hit, FEMA had contacted the helicopter's manufacturer in seeking help, and word eventually got to Norman. FEMA will coordinate Hogan's flights and supply fuel.

Canadian warships to sail to Louisiana


Three Canadian warships, a coast guard vessel and three Sea King helicopters will be sent to Louisiana on Tuesday with relief supplies for the U.S. Gulf Coast.

The Canadian Coast Guard Ship Sir William Alexander will sail along with the Canadian Navy vessels, HMCS Athabaskan, HMCS Ville De Quebec and HMCS Toronto. Duties would involve reconstruction, health care and humanitarian aid. As well, about 40 navy divers from both coasts were also expected to deploy with the mission, which got clearance after American officials accepted a Canadian offer of help.

Canadians donate over $1 million for Hurricane Katrina relief


The Canadian Red Cross estimates that so far Canadians have donated over $1 million to date to help survivors of Hurricane Katrina.

As well, the agency said 37 Canadian Red Cross workers left for Houston on Saturday to help victims of Hurricane Katrina in the first of a series of missions being organized for the months ahead. The volunteers -- from Sydney, Nova Scotia to Edmonton, Alberta -- will support the American Red Cross in managing 270 shelters and delivering some 500,000 hot meals each day.

Relief Efforts Continue to Flow In From All Over Canada


In Halifax, Nova Scotia's Conservative government announced it would donate $100,000 to the Canadian Red Cross.

P.E.I. Premier Pat Binns has offered to help co-ordinate an effort to provide shelter and support for the hundreds of thousands of people displaced by Katrina.

People in the Maritimes are offering to take in victims of Katrina. Deputy Prime Minister McLellan said there are offers by Maritimers ready to open their homes to people on the U-S Gulf Coast, who've been left homeless by the storm.

Because of the deep connection of Atlantic Canada's Acadians with the U.S. South, McLellan said many people have offered to shelter children or families who may need somewhere to go.

Air Canada said Friday it had dispatched an Airbus passenger jet from Toronto to New Orleans with a cargo of bottled water and relief supplies. The airline said it would operate shuttle flights over the next several days to help in the evacuation of about 25,000 people from New Orleans to Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas.

Magna will house 400 Katrina refugees in Florida

Canadian auto parts giant Magna International announced it is gearing up to help in the hurricane relief effort.

Magna International will bus more than 400 people from the devastated U.S. Gulf Coast to its facilities in Florida, where a spokesman said they can stay until November.

Magna's relief effort will focus on helping women and children.

Magna's Dan Donovan is organizing the relief effort, helped by former U.S. Ambassador to Canada, Paul Cellucci, who now works at Magna Entertainment.

Canadian Relief Agencies Start To Help Katrina Victims.

Winnipeg-based Mennonite Disaster Service said Wednesday it is gathering donations to help send hundreds of volunteers to rebuild homes.

Canadian Red Cross volunteers with experience in large scale disasters were being contacted Wednesday and officials hoped a handful would be travelling to the southern U.S. by the weekend.

In Edmonton, Canada's Public Security Minister said Canada will do whatever it can for the U.S.

Anne McLellan said that could involve a wide variety of things, including sending military engineers.

But McLellan said medical drugs may be among the first items Canada is called upon to ship south.

She said an American government agency asked Ottawa to do an inventory of medication that could help stop the spread of infection. McLellan said the inventory has been done and the U.S. government has been informed of Canada's ability to ship the drugs.

Suzanne Charest of the Red Cross said they'll likely send more than 100 volunteers in the coming weeks to help serve hot meals, assess the needs of displaced families and to train other volunteers.

Tarot Card Reading For The Week Of September 1-7

The Question:"Will this week be a successful one?"

Review of the ten card Celtic Spread.

The the deck is first spread out face down in the middle of the table and mixed up thoroughly. The cards are then gathered and played out one card at a time, face up as follows.

The Celtic Cross spread is one of the most common tarot spreads. There is a cross in the center, with a row of 4 cards along the side. This spread will provide a fairly in-depth look at a situation including past, present and external influences. Beginners may want to start with a spread with fewer cards.

Here is the reading.

Cover: General atmosphere

Two of Cups
A NEW PARTNERSHIP OR RELATIONSHIP ENTERS YOUR LIFE.

Crossing: Opposing forces

Queen of Pentacles
YOU ARE COMFORTABLE WITH THE STATUS QUO AND DO NOT WANT TO MAKE ANY CHANGES IN YOUR LIFE.

Foundation: Past basis

Knight of Pentacles
THERE IS AN UNEXPECTED BUSINESS TRIP, OR NON-BUSINESS TRAVEL, THERE IS ALSO THE POSSIBILITY THAT YOU WILL BE MOVING IN THE FUTURE.

Behind You: Passing influences

Three of Cups
YOU ARE IN A HAPPY MOOD, THE FOCUS IS ON CELEBRATING, HAVING FUN AND ENJOYING YOURSELF, PARTIES AND OR FUN ARE YOUR MAIN CONCERNS RIGHT NOW, AS YOU TASTE A LITTLE HAPPINESS OR SUCCESS IN YOUR LIFE.

Crowining: Possible future

Ace of Wands
YOU WILL PUT ALL YOUR ENERGY INTO A NEW SITUATION OR CREATIVE PROJECT THAT WILL ENTER YOUR LIFE IN THE NEAR FUTURE.

Before You: Soon to come

The High Priestess
SECRETS ARE BEING KEPT FROM YOU, AND THERE IS DOUBT IN THE FUTURE, YOU WILL ALSO BE EXPERIENCING STRONG OR VIVID DREAMS.

Hopes: Goals or aspirations

Four of Cups
SOMEONE IS OFFERING YOU AN OPPORTUNITY IN YOUR LIFE, AND YOU ARE REFUSING IT OR IGNORING IT.

Opinions: What others think

Five of Wands
OTHER PEOPLE IN YOUR LIFE WILL BE THE SOURCE OF ANXIETY OR PROBLEMS IN YOUR LIFE AT THIS TIME, YOU WILL FIND THAT PEOPLE AROUND YOU ARE DIFFICULT TO DEAL WITH, AND YOU AND THEM MAY NOT AGREE ON THINGS. YOU WILL ONLY BE ABLE TO RESOLVE THE MINOR DISPUTES, BUT THE BIG THINGS YOU WILL NOT. THERE IS ALSO GOSSIP AROUND YOU, BEWARE WHOM YOU TALK TO.

Feelings: Fears

The Devil
YOU WILL BE BLINDED BY AN INTENSE DESIRE OR OBSESSION THAT WILL NOT ALLOW YOU TO SEE CLEARLY THE SITUATION AT HAND, YOU WILL ALSO BE INDULGING YOURSELF, SPENDING MONEY UNWISELY, AND ALCOHOL AND OR SEX MAY BECOME A MAJOR PART OF YOUR LIFE.

Outcome: Resolution

King of Wands
YOU ARE FEELING RESTRICTED IN YOUR AFFAIRS, AND YOU WILL BE MORE DEDICATED TO WORK OR CAREER THAN A RELATIONSHIP OR LOVE INTEREST.

Quintessence:

The Hierophant
DO NOT STICK WITH OLD HABITS, LET YOURSELF BE GUIDED BY YOUR CONVICTIONS.

National Guard trucks haul residents seeking refuge through floodwaters to the Superdome. 

An aerial view of the devastation caused by Katrina in New Orleans. 

Hurricane Katrina

My heart bleeds for the victims of Mondays Hurricane throughout the Gulf Coast. I won't pretend to understand the pain and loss felt by the millions of victims Katrina has left homeless and without loved ones, I can only offer my hope. Please accept.

A picture, truly is worth a thousand words and to see flood water covering eighty percent of New Orleans, in some parts up to the third story of some of the cities historical buildings and to watch thousands of people huddle in the dark at the Super Dome makes you feel helpless.

To watch news footage of national guard and even media helicopters help people escape the tops of their roofs in Louisiana. Some had taped a red cross symbol and the words diabetic on their roofs in an effort to attract the aid that they needed.

In made me sick to hear about a crowd of about 50 to 75 people had swarmed through a supermarket in New Orleans, taking out shopping carts full of goods before police arrived. In another city a young kid was stopped by a news team from looting a home of the owners tv, when asked if he thought what he was doing was wrong his reply was "if it was wrong the cops would have stopped me". Enough said, I shake my head in disbelief.

The other sickening part of this tragedy is how the gas megaopolies hear in Canada had decided to capitalize on a tragedy and raised gas prices in unison to an absurd $1.20 a litre! over night. Unlike in the U.S our oil rigs are not built offshore and thus not effected like the ones in the Gulf.

This is just pure price gouging, and illegal in this country. If charged and found guilty it would see every CEO of Canada's big gas giants behind bars. Only if someone in government grew some "cahonies" and named names.

Later,
Kenaz

Trevor with my sister Denise's dog Muggsy. 

My sister Cherlyanne with her children James 14 and Tracy 11, fiance Dan. 

Me holding Jennifer's youngest son Brandon Kenneth 2 months old. Proud Grandma Rosanne stands by. This was taken on my front porch that extends across to my sisters home next door. 

Patrice's fouth son David, 8 

Patrice's Third Child Dillon, 13 

Patrice's second oldest son Shane, 14 

My sister Patrice's oldest son Tim, 16 

My Neice with her first son Trevor Calvin 20 months old 

New Playlist Uploaded At The Eternal Kenaz

Air Adventures of Jimmy Allen - OTR - 1936 14:55
Bob CrosbyandEileen Barton - Ep2 - 19xx-xx-xx 14:43
Brigadoon- OTR - Audio Book 14:48
Buck Rodgers - The Chase After Killer Kane - 1939 10:27
Buddy Guy Stevie Ray Vaughan Eric Clapton Robert Cray 3:35
Cisco Kid - Cisco Meets the Apache Kid - 53-01-08 Ep50 28:13
Flash Gordon - Blue Magic Men Capture Flash - 35-06-01 14:48
Gunsmoke - The Big Con - 53-05- 26:48
Hopalong Cassidy - Death Comes Invited - 52-02- 25:58
Inner Sanctum - Only The Dead Die Twice - OTR Inner 24:12
Jimmy Witherspoon - When The Lights Go Out - The Chess Story 1947-1975 (1952-1954 Part Two) (Disc 4) 2:52
March Of Time - Various Artists-Variety - 41-12-11 n/a 24:23
March Of Time - Various Artists-Variety - March 6 1931 3:29
OTR -Battle of the CenturyI Love A Mystery - 50-01- 14:51
Pat Novak - Lidia Reynolds Case - 47-11- 30:31
Peg Leg Howell and Eddie Anthony - Turkey Buzzard Blues 3:06
Red Panda - Episode 4 - 19xx-xx-xx 26:42
Snow White and the SevenDwarfs - OTR - 46-04- 28:10
Bessie Smith - Haunted House Blues 1:39
Billie Holiday - The Very Thought Of You 2:46
Bonnie Raitt - No Business - Luck Of The Draw 4:24
Eric Clapton - Lonely Stranger - Unplugged 5:28
Archie Andrews - Archie Fights a Cold - 48-06-12 29:15
Audio Books-C.S ForesterBooks-Horatio Hornblower-The Man Who Saw God- Ep 3 29:27
Tarzan - Tarzan In Young Manhood - 1932-09-16 Ep3 10:47
Bickersons - Car Repairs Teaching Blanche To Dri ve 8:22
Tales of the Texas Rangers - Play For Keeps - ep 007 w/Joel McCrae 29:10

Total Time 7:14:00

Hamilton Tiger-Cats Logo1 

Oskee-Wee-Wee!

...Oskee-Wa-Wa! Holy Macanaw-Tigers-Eat 'Em Raw!. The best football team fight chant in sports, was echoeing around the city for the first time in a long time last night.

D-Mac passed for 440 yards and threw three touchdown passes to help the Hamilton Tiger-Cats earn their first win of the season, as they defeated Winnipeg 41-39 in the shoot out in Steeltown.

Hamilton wasted little time giving their fans something to hoot about. The Cats cracking the scoreboard when McManus hooked up with Flick on a 72-yard scoring strike for a 7-0 lead just 30 seconds into the contest.

McManus, who was making his first start since injuring his thumb in a July 30 game versus Edmonton, also connected with Craig Yeast on a 75-yard TD toss for Hamilton (1-8), which snapped an eight-game slide.

In other Ti-Cat news, The Seattle Seahawks released Canadian university star Jesse Lumsden on Tuesday. The running back from Burlington, Ont., had been hampered by a hip injury in training camp. He did not see action in Monday's 18-10 pre-season loss to Dallas.

Lumsden won the Hec Creighton Trophy last year as Canada's outstanding university player while playing for McMaster in Hamilton. He was selected in the first round, sixth overall, of the CFL Canadian college draft this year by the Hamilton Tiger-Cats after signing as a free agent with Seattle.

Hopefully another NFL team with some insight will take a second look at Lumsden who has the potential to be a bonified all-star. If not Jess would look great in black and gold.

Later,
Kenaz

Help find Alicia Ross, the 23-year old Markham, Ontario,Canada women missing since August 16. 

Help Find Alicia Ross

Please help the family of Alicia Ross bring their angel home and find the devil's child that obducted her, and bring them too justice.

Borrowed From the "Americas Most Wanted" website.

Foul Play?

On the evening of August 16, 2005, police say Alicia Ross went out with her boyfriend. After their evening together, they say he dropped her off at her home around midnight. That was the last time anyone saw Alicia. The following day, Alicia was a no-show at work -- something that never happened. Her car was also still in her parents' driveway, where she lived.

For six days following her disappearance, police combined search efforts with more than 1,000 volunteers to try to find the woman whose family and friends so desperately missed. Authorities dispatched helicopters, canine units, and ground crews to search a wide radius of several miles around her house -- the most likely area she'd be in if she'd gotten lost or hurt. But the search was sadly in vain, and Alicia is still missing. Cops are now fearing the worst, and are looking into the possibility of foul play.

The Investigation So Far

Because he was the last person to see her, police are calling Alicia's boyfriend to be a person of interest, but do not consider him a suspect. They are conducting interviews with everyone who was in contact with Alicia the day she went missing, in addition to anyone they feel might know what happened to her.

So far, they have little on which to base their investigation -- but cops say they won't rest until Alicia Ross is found.

Kenaz,

New Playlist Added at Kenaz's OTR

Here are some of the new artists and tracks added at theeternalkenaz@live365,

Hopalong Cassidy - Pancho and the Parrot - 53-01-06 26:27
Barbecue Bob- We sure got hard times now - The Great Depression 2:47
The Bickersons- Amos Does Time 10:17
Tarzan- Ep2 - Battle With The Apes - 32-09-13 8:50
Elmore James- Blues Before Sunrise 2:45
Bugs Henderson - Boogie On Down (Live with Fred - Legendary Jams 1976 - 1980 7:16
Paul Butterfield Blues Band - Born In Chicago 3:06
Albert Collins - Cold, Cold Feeling 5:16
Blues Traveler - Get Out Of Denver - ThingsToDoInDenverWhenYourDead 3:39
Woody Herman - I'll Get By 3:02
Big Walter Horton- - Little Boy Blues(w. Carey Bell 3:14
Big Walter HortonWith Carey Bell-- Lovin My Baby 2:50
Inner Sanctum - Mark My Grave - 19xx-xx-xx 26:04
Flash Gordon-Flash Gordon On The Planet Mongo 35-04-27 14:40

Tales From The Set: "Silent Bob and Jay Like Canada"

No big news today, but every experience helps in life. Last night I did a background gig as a boom operator on the set of the highly successful Canadian series "Degrassi: The Next Generation".

A little information about the series, The Next Generation is the fourth incarnation of the successful Degrassie franchise. In its twenty fifth year of production the series started back in the early 1980's as "The Kids on Degrassi" followed the growing pains of its pre-teen characters. They grew into teen hood and so did the series, it was off too "Junior High" and then "High School" for the Degrassi kids.

The series was internationally applauded for being the first series directed towards youth to compationately protray aids, gay relationships, bullying, teen pregnancy and divorce. Degrassi was showing the real life issues that effected our youth while American teen series like "Beverly Hills 90210" were busy with the pressing question "Does Brandon like Donna?" who cared?

As the actors grew out of their parts and moved on to bigger and better things, the series kept developing. A new batch of young performers mixed with returning guest appearances mixed with fresh scripts dealing with the ever evolving issues of youth.

That brings me back to last night, there I was pretending to be part of a media scrum interviewing the one and only Kevin Smith and Jason Mewes, portraying their famous Silent Bob and Jay characters, who were being upstaged at their premier of the ficticious new movie "Silent Bob and Jay Go to Canada, Eh" by their two gorgious lesbian co-stars.

A bit about how this odd marriage of talent came to be. Briefly, Degrassi TNG was airing on PBS in America and caught the eye of Smith who fell in love with the show and its characters so much he phoned the producers of the all Canadian production and requested to do a cameo.

A three episode deal, in which Smith would portray himself as a producer of the new Silent Bob feature, shooting at the high school. Smith also would portray his alter ego "Silent Bob". That was last season, now "Silent Bob" is back for the premier and brought his side kick "Jay" upto Canada for the first time. Click on the link for more.

The guys where great, professional, right on!.

Kenaz,

Tarot Card Reading For The Week Of August 24-30 05

The Question:"Will this week be a successful one?"

Review of the ten card Celtic Spread.

The the deck is first spread out face down in the middle of the table and mixed up thoroughly. The cards are then gathered and played out one card at a time, face up as follows.

The Celtic Cross spread is one of the most common tarot spreads. There is a cross in the center, with a row of 4 cards along the side. This spread will provide a fairly in-depth look at a situation including past, present and external influences. Beginners may want to start with a spread with fewer cards.

Here is the reading.

Cover: General atmosphere

The Fool
YOU WILL ACT OUT OF CHARACTER AS YOU TAKE A RISK ON A FRESH START OR NEW BEGINNING IN YOUR LIFE.

Crossing: Opposing forces

Eight of Pentacles
YOU WILL BE LEARNING A LIFE LESSON OR IMPROVING YOUR SKILLS OR ABILITIES.

Foundation: Past basis

Ten Of Pentacles
YOU ARE SUCCESSFUL OR WILL SOON BE ACHIEVING THE SUCCESS YOU ALWAYS WANTED,YOUR FAMILY AND THEIR SECURITY WILL BE YOUR MAIN CONCERN NOW, THERE IS A POSSIBILITY OF A HOME PURCHASE OR MOVE IN FUTURE.

Behind You: Passing influences

The Hermit
YOU MAY BE SPENDING TIME ALONE OR IN SOLITUDE, REFLECTING, AND LEARNING, THIS WILL SOON PASS, AND YOU WILL TIE UP LOOSE ENDS, FINISH PROJECTS, AND PLAN AHEAD FOR YOUR FUTURE.

Crowining: Possible future

Ace of Wands
YOU WILL PUT ALL YOUR ENERGY INTO A NEW SITUATION OR CREATIVE PROJECT THAT WILL ENTER YOUR LIFE IN THE NEAR FUTURE.

Before You: Soon to come

The Hanged Man
THINGS THAT MATTER IN YOUR LIFE HAVE COME TO A HALT OR STANDSTILL, A REVISION OF THINGS WILL BE DONE AND YOUR LIFE WILL BE DIFFERENT AS A RESULT.

Hopes: Goals or aspirations

Queen of Pentacles
YOU ARE COMFORTABLE WITH THE STATUS QUO AND DO NOT WANT TO MAKE ANY CHANGES IN YOUR LIFE.

Opinions: What others think

Nine of Cups
A WISH OR DESIRE YOU HAVE WILL SOON BE GRANTED OR REALIZED.

Feelings: Fears

Three of Pentacles
YOU WILL HAVE SUCCESS WITH A SKILL OR ABILITY, AND YOU WILL BE NEGOTIATING AND PLANNING YOUR WAY OUT OF A SITUATION.

Outcome: Resolution

Ace of Cups
LOVE AT FIRST SIGHT ENTERS YOUR LIFE THIS COULD BE A SIGNIFICANT OTHER OR A PROJECT YOU LOVE.

Quintessence:

The Wheel of Fortune
RECOGNIZE YOUR PURPOSE, AND DEDICATE YOURSELF, YOU HAVE THE POWER AND SKILL TO MASTER ANY SITUATION.

Celtic Cross Spread

As a side note, in a previous post, I noted that I thought I had done horribly at an audition that I went out for on August 9, well not only did I get called back for a second audition, I got the part. I am going to shoot a "Hair Club For Men" commercial this Friday. This was only my third audition, my knees where shaking, but I just sucked it up and found my funny side and it worked. Now I am ready to "Learn a Life Lesson" and "Dedicate My Self". How did you do this week?

Later,

Kenaz

"Toronto Sucks!" Campaign Doesn't Get Off It's Knees

Yesterday, as I stepped off the bus at the corner of King and James heading yet again to Toronto for a movie shoot, I looked across the street and witnessed a scene that provided both repulse and amusement.

Some "person" who decided to remain anonymous, has sponsored a campaign to promote their narrow view of Hamiltons friends in Toronto.

The add campaign entails 8-10 teenagers to stand on the street corner, wearing tee-shirts and holding plaque cards with the catchy slogan "Toronto Sucks" emblazed in block letters.

In the minute and a half that it took for the light to change and for me to make it across the street, I studied closely these kids promotional skills. Stand, wait for a car to pass, scream their lame slogan and coax a horn honk in support from some "loser" who remembers the time they got kicked out of a Toronto after hours club.

Anyway, even after watching the report from a local CH News reporter I am still confused to the purpose of this campaign, what about Toronto does this "promoter of ridiculous propaganda" exactly think "Sucks?

These kids couldn't effectively offer any proof of their "hypothesis" only stupid looks when confronted by people who used words to communicate their anti view that this campaign only cheapens Hamiltons reputation and not primitive noises like a car horn.

And news flash for these kids, the majority of Hamiltonians are far more intelligent than you and your boss and if we do have a problem with another community we don't digress to childish to first grade name calling. If we must, Mr. Anonymous, "You Suck!"

I would love to start my own straw poll here at Kenaz's Blog "Who Sucks More, this campaign or Toronto?" Not to try to influence but to borrow from a popular add campaign, T-shirts and poster board $50, Hired Kids $100, Licence ??? minus the ten of thousands that flows between the two cities = "Losers"

Later,

Kenaz

The Use of Colour In Your Home

The first step in the use of colour is to understand the psychological effects it has on us. Red is known to stimulate the appetite - so it’s an excellent colour for dining rooms. Both blue and green are fresh and calming. They are the colours of nature and could be popular choices for bedrooms. Yellow and orange are energizing like the sun, so are good choices in rooms where your energy may need boosting - the kitchen perhaps. Orange in its toned down terracotta form can be ideal in a home office; it has the energizing effect of both red and orange but isn’t so bright that you won’t be able to stay at your desk!

Many contemporary television programmes have made a virtue of the use of bold colours in wild combinations: violet and lime green; turquoise and red-orange; orange and fuchsia. But before you splash out on several gallons of grapefruit yellow and olive green paint for the bedroom, consider carefully whether a violet and lime green living room is something you can live with.

Many new and traditional homes are decorated in various shades of beige (I think "taupe" is the current fashionable term), Subtle, muted wall colours (like off white and taupe) are fine, and very easy to live with. But you can still enliven them with bright highlights in your accessories and upholstery. Consider a multi-coloured rug, candles, some coloured ceramics or glassware, vivid prints or paintings, or squashy cushions in jewel tones. The overall effect will be airy and soothing yet the flashes of colour can bring in your personality and be your signature touches.

You don't have to be afraid of colour, even a person who lists "black" as their favorite colour like me, will find that introducing a burgundy valence and candles into a computer room can open a wave of creativity. Here is a list of colour options and how adding each to your home will influence its positive energy. For how to use colour in combinations pick up a cheap colour wheel in your local art supply store and have fun.

Check out my previous post entitled "HOW TO USE THE FIVE ELEMENTS OF FENG SHUI TO CREATE HARMONY IN YOUR HOME" for more help with deciding what colours are best for what rooms.

White- Innocence, peace, protection, purification, purity, sincerity, truth

Red- Courage, exorcism, health, lust, passion, protection, sex, strength, vigour

Dark Red- Mental power, thought

Pink- Femininity, friendships, honour, love, morality

Orange - Adaptability, attraction, authority, changes, courage, encouragement, luck, peace of mind, power, strength, stimulation

Yellow - Attraction, concentration, communication, confidence, creativity, divination, imagination, intellect, learning study, wisdom

Green- Ambition, employment, fertility, financial matters, growth, luck, money, nature, prosperity, rejuvenation, success, wealth

Light blue- Happiness, healing, patience, relaxing, serenity, soothing, tranquility

Deep blue- Change, flexibility, healing, psychic powers, relaxing, soothing, the subconscious

Dark Blue (Navy)- Banishes depression, relaxing, soothing

Purple- Ambition, healing severe diseases, home protection, idealism, meditation, power, spirituality, success, wisdom

Lilac- Tranquillity, the astral plane

Brown- Animals (especially healing), concentration, conquering indecisiveness, emotional stability, practicality, study, the home

Grey- Neutrality, privacy, removal of negative influences, stability

Black- Absorbing and destroying negativity, banishing evil, banishing negativity, breaking curses, healing severe diseases, resilience, self control,

Silver- Intuition, Moon magic, the Moon Goddess, visions

Gold- Attraction, charm, confidence, cosmic influences, intuition, life force, longevity, magnetism, persuasion.

Kenaz,

Two Great Movies That Deal With Injustice

My first pick is the 1987 classic "Cry Freedom".Directed by "Richard Attenborough",(1982's Award Winning Gandhi"), Cry Freedom is a dramatization of the story of Steve Biko, the South African Black Consciousness leader, who was murdered while in police custody, and Donald Woods, the white editor of the Daily Dispatch who befriended him. Woods wrote a book exposing the death of Biko while in Police custody. In order for him to get the book published he had to escape from South Africa.

Biko is played by "Denzel Washington", and Woods is played by "Kevin Kline". Woods' wife, Wendy, is played by "Penelope Wilton."

The movie opened the eyes of the world to grave injustices commited by the South African Appartied government during the 1970's and 1980's. In 1972, Biko became honorary president of the Black People's Convention. He was banned during the height of apartheid in March 1973, meaning that he was not allowed to speak to more than one person at a time and so could not make speeches in public. It was also forbidden to quote anything he said, including speeches or simple conversations, or to otherwise mention him.

On September 6, 1977, he was arrested at a police roadblock under the Terrorism Act No 83 of 1967. He suffered a major head injury while in police custody and was chained to a window grill for a full day. On September 11, police loaded him into the back of a car and began the 740-mile drive to Pretoria. He died shortly after the arrival in the Pretoria prison. Police claimed his death was the result of an extended hunger strike.

On October 7, 2003, South African Justice Ministry officials announced that the five policemen who were accused of killing Biko would not be prosecuted because of insufficient evidence. They said a murder charge could not be supported partly because there were no witnesses to the killing. Charges of culpable homicide and assault were also considered, but because the killing occurred in 1977, the time frame for prosecution had expired.

The second pick is 2004's "Hotel Rwanda". "Don Cheadle's" performaance as "Paul Rusesabagina", manager of the Belgian-owned Mille Collines, a luxury hotel in Kigali, the Rwandan capital is pure brilliance.

Street smarts became Rusesabagina's salvation when "Rwanda" plummets into genocide ten years ago in an event that transformed the genial businessman into an unlikely hero.

As ethnic "Hutu's" began killing their "Tutsi" neighbors, Rusesabagina—a Hutu married to a Tutsi woman "(Sophie Okonedo)" —turned his hotel into an impromptu refugee camp for more than a thousand terrified Tutsis and moderate Hutus.

Deserted by international peacekeepers, Rusesabagina began cashing in every favor he had ever earned, bribing the Rwandan Hutu soldiers and keeping the bloodthirsty militia (mostly) outside the gates during the hundred days of slaughter.

In the end, he survived along with his wife and three children, as did most of the refugees he sheltered. Outside the hotel the genocide claimed up to one million lives.

The movie, which opened in limited release in the United States garnered "2005 Oscar" nominations for best actor, best picture, best screenplay and best actress for Sophie Okonedo, but in the end was shut out. Personally I thought "Hotel Rwanda" was a much more important and better film than the best picture winner "Million Dollar Baby". Cheadles loss to Jamie Foxx("Ray") was a little more understanding and Okonedo was a relative new comer going up against the terrific Cate Blanchet("Aviator").

Check these two great films out,

Kenaz,

New Playlist Posted At Kenaz's OTR

Bessie Smith- Empty Bed Blues (Pts 1 & 2) - Collection 6:08
Big Bill Broonzy w/Sonny Terry and Brownie McGhee Southern Saga 7:02
Big Joe Turner w/ Dr. John - Room Full Of Blues - Blues Train 3:50
Billie Holiday w/ Louis Armstrong -Summertime Blind Boy Fuller - Blue And Worried Man - Volume 6 1:39
Blind Willie Johnson - Church, I'm Fully Saved Today - Dark Was the Night [Columbia/L n/a3:08
Bonnie Raitt - Love Me Like A Man - Bonnie Raitt 3:00
Boris Karloff - Chung Ling Soo - 57-12-16 3:28
BorisKarloff - Shakespeares Hometown - 57-12-17 4:21
Buddy Guywith Johnny Lang - Midnight Train 4:57
Flash Gordon- death battle won by flash - ep04 - 35-05-18 14:48
edited by Harry Smith - Prison Cell Blind Lemon Jefferson- Blues - Anthology of American Folk Music 2:47
Eric Clapton- Hey Hey - Unplugged 3:16
Gunsmoke - Shakespeare - 52-08-23 ep01832 30:11
Hopalong Cassidy - hook line and murder - 19xx-xx-xx 26:37
Inner Sanctum- Man From Yesterday - 19xx-xx-xx 29:44
Pat Novak- Mysterious Set Of Books - 47-08-10 28:49
Red Panda- Episode 3 - 19xx-xx-xx n/a 26:43 Rules Over Cave World - FG-EPI5 - 35-05-25 14:40
The Bickersons- - Advert By The Bickersons - 67-10-14 5:04
The Haunting Hour - The Old Man - 19xx-xx-xx n/a 12:14:29 26:29
The Whistler - not known - 19xx-xx-xx 29:28

These and more great Old time Radio Programs, Jazz and Blues songs can be heard at Kenaz's OTR Click the links to learn more about the programs and artists.

Vintage Movie Reviews:Sidney Potitier

For this weeks edition of Kenaz's vintage video picks I've decided to review some of the best of one of the greatest actors ever, Sidney Potitier. My first indulgence into the cinematic brilliance of Mr. Ponitier's was as a teen when I saw the 1967 classic "In the Heat of the Night".

In the movie Potitier plays Virgil Tibbs. A Philadelphia Homicide detective home to see his mother in the rural south. He is arrested after a wealthy northern factory owner is murdered, racist Mississippi cops accuse the African American detective of the crime. Once they learn that he is a renowned in his home state, they reluctantly seek his help. As Tibbs, Potitier displays his acting skills and depicts a skilled black detective , who is willing to show patience and percevierance in his quest to win the respect, protection, and ultimately friendship of the Police Chief Bill Gillepsie (Rod Steiger).

In 1970 Potitier reserected the character for the less then steller sequell "They Call Me Mister Tibbs". Poitier's performance is masterful. But the writing is pedestrian, the pacing too slow, and the resolution ultimately unsatisfactory. The movie does offer one of the most memorable character introductions in cinematic history when Detective Tibbs is asked who he is by a less than respectable underling of the police department. Potitier turns into the camera and delivers the line "They call me (pause) Mr. Tibbs" A simple line that set the tone for movie. This was a skilled black man who wasn't going to lay down for anyone.

I have seen now a good portion of Sidney Poitier's some fifty movies and enjoyed watching him transform himself into each of his characters. From a rebellious student in "Blackboard Jungle" (1955) to Nelson Mandela in the made for tv bi-opic "Mandela and de Klerk(1997), Poitier showed why he received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences in 2002.

Some of my other favourites from Sidney Poitier include,

The 1963 film "Lilies of the Field". The film that until 2001 sported the only African-American Best Actor or Actress Oscar winner (Halle Berry,"Monster's Ball"). Sidney Poitier (in an excellent Oscar-winning performance) stars as an unemployed handyman whose car breaks down in New Mexico. He is greeted by a group of German nuns led by Lilia Skala (Oscar-nominated). The nuns are in desperate need of a church and it just seems that Poitier is not going to be able to shake Skala and the various duties she imposes on him.

In the 1967 classic,"Guess Who's Coming to Dinner". Poitier starred opposite the legendary couple of Spencer Tracy and Katharine Hepburn. The movie showcased an unusual bi-product of that resulted from the clash between 1960's liberalism and racial fanaticism. Superb acting and dialog is what overcomes the dated aspect. Hepburn and Tracy are Matt and Christina Drayton a wealthy and successful couple who have a daughter named Joey played by Katherine Houghton who comes home and tells them she has met the man of her dreams. The only problem in the story is that he is of a different race. Sidney Poitier is John Wade Prentice a successful individual who is the man of Joeys dreams and is of the different race. The Draytons are people who in theory hold no prejudice toward any one regardless of their race, color or creed but now have those same views put harshly to the test when it's their own daughter involved.

Courtesy of http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0001627/

In Sidney Poitier’s feature film debut (1950's "No Way Out"), "racial tensions simmer, then flare into violence when two white criminals wounded in a shootout are brought into the care of Dr. Brooks (Poitier), the only black doctor at a city hospital. When one brother suddenly dies, the surviving brother accuses Dr. Brooks of killing him and instigates slayings and racial rioting to get revenge. Provocative and nuanced, NO WAY OUT dramatizes the different threads of race relationships, from indifference to blind hatred, that are woven through American society. Starring black actors (it was also Ossie Davis's first film) and filmed at the very cusp of the civil rights movement, only 10 years after Hattie McDaniel became the first African-American actor to win an Oscar(Best Supporting Actress), NO WAY OUT was a leap ahead of the mainstream film industry in its head-on tackling of racial prejudice. The script, written by director Joseph L. Mankiewicz and Lesser Samuels, was nominated for an Oscar."

Courtesy of http://movies.yahoo.com/shop?d=hv&id=1800299207&cf=info&intl=us

Kenaz,

Evil Incarnate Dennis Rader Gets 175 Years

BTK serial killer Dennis Rader was ordered to serve 10 consecutive life terms Thursday at a hearing that allowed family members to unleash decades of pent-up anger at the man who stabbed and strangled their loved ones while terrorizing the Wichita area starting in the 1970s.

"This man needs to be thrown in a deep, dark hole and left to rot. He should never, ever see the light of day ... On the day he dies, Nancy and all of his victims will be waiting with God and watching him as he burns in hell."

A sentiment offered by Beverly Plapp, sister of victim Nancy Fox, and shared by any person with a soul.

Rader could only offer the ramblings of a sick mind, as he quoted the bible during his half hour speech, in which he apologized to his family and victims and thanked the police and then offered.

"A dark side is there, but now I think light is beginning to shine," Rader said, his voice choking at times. "Hopefully someday God will accept me."

I don't think so. Mr. Rader likes to quote the bible, maybe he could try this one on for size,

"And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it" (Mathew 16:18)"

RIP, to all those all the angels killed by this darkest of evils and may they be reincarnated to once again fill their love ones lives with joy.

Peace,
Kenaz

Finally Some Good News For The Tiger Cats

Tim Cheatwood, recently cut by the NFL's Houston Texans, will be re-joining the Hamilton Tiger Cats.

A 6-foot-4, 258-pound defensive end, Cheatwod registered a CFL-best 14 sacks for the Ticats last season before trying his luck south of the border this year.

Losing Cheatwood and Joe Montford, who ranked second in the league with 13 sacks last year, has been, to say the least devastating to the Tiget Cats this year.

Hamilton, mired in a seven-game winless skid, are in B.C. this week for a game Friday night and the 27 year-old Cheatwood will be in uniform for the game.

Now if the Cats can get some help on offense.

Courtesy of TSN.

Favourite Quote From "The Tao of Pooh"

"When you wake up in the morning, Pooh," said Piglet at last, "what's the first thing you say to yourself?"

"What's for breakfast? said Pooh. "What do you say, Piglet?"

"I say, I wonder what's going to happen exciting today?" said Piglet.

Pooh nodded thoughtfully.

"It's the same thing," he said.

The Tao of Pooh

Winnie the Pooh has a certain way about him, a way of doing things which has made him the world's most beloved bear. And Pooh's Way, as Benjamin Hoff brilliantly demonstrates, seems strangely close to the ancient Chinese principles of Taoism. The 'Tao of Pooh' explains Taoism by Winnie the Pooh and explaines Winnie the Pooh by Taoism. It makes you understand what A.A. Milne probably meant when he said he didn't write the Pooh-books for children in the first place.

Over the centuries Taoism classic teachings were developed and divided into philosophical, monastic, and folk religious forms. All of these could be included under the general heading of Taoism. But the basic Taoism is simply a particular way of appreciating, learning from, and working with whatever happens in everyday life. From the Taoist point of view, the natural result of this harmonious way of living is happiness.

One of the basic principles of Taoism is P'U, the Uncarved Block. The essence of the Uncarved Block is that things in their original simplicity contain their own natural power, power that is easily spoiled and lost when that simplicity is changed. This principle applies not only to things, but to people as well. Or Bears. Which brings us to Pooh, the very Epitome of the Uncarved Block. When you discard arrogance, complexity, and a few, other things that get in the way, sooner or later you will discover that simple, childlike, and mysterious secret known to those of the Uncarved Block: Life is Fun. Along with that comes the ability to do things spontaneously and have them work, odd as that may appear to others at times. As Piglet put it in 'Winnie-the-Pooh', "Pooh hasn't much Brain, but he never comes to any harm. He does silly things and they turn out right."

Owl instead, is the opposite of Pooh, the Knowledge for the sake of Appearing Wise, the one who studies Knowledge for the sake of Knowledge, and who keeps what he learns to himself or to his own small group, rather than working for the enlightenment of others. That way, the scholars can appear Superior, and will not likely be suspected of Not Knowing Something. After all, from the scholarly point of view, it's practically a crime not to know everything. But sometimes the knowledge of the scholar is a bit hard to understand because it doesn't seem to match up with our own experience of things. Isn't the knowledge that comes from experience more valuable than the knowledge that doesn't?

While Owl's little routine is that of Knowledge for the sake of Appearing Wise, Eeyore's is that of Knowledge for the sake of Complaining About Something and Rabbit's is that of Knowledge of Being Clever. As anyone who doesn't have it can see, the Eeyore Attitude gets in the way of things like wisdom and happiness, and pretty much prevents any sort of real Accomplishment in life. Cleverness, after all, has its limitations. Its mechanical judgments and clever remarks tend to prove inaccurate with passing time, because it doesn't look very deeply into things to begin with. The thing that makes someone truly different -unique, in fact- is something that Cleverness cannot really understand.

"A fish can't whistle and neither can I." There's nothing wrong with not being able to whistle, especially if you're a fish. But there can be lots of things wrong with blindly trying to do what you aren't designed for. Unfortunately, some people aren't so wise, and end up causing big trouble for themselves and others. The wise know their limitations; the foolish do not. To demonstrate what we mean, we can think of no one better than Tigger, who doesn't know his limitations ('Tiggers can do everything'), which brings him in lots of trouble. Piglet instead knows his limitations and that's what makes him sometimes more braver than you would expect from such a small animal. So, the first thing we need to do is recognize and trust our own Inner Nature, and not lose sight of it. Inside the Bouncy Tigger is the Rescuer who knows the Way, and in each of us is something Special, and that we need to keep:

"Tigger is all right really," said Piglet lazily.
"Of course he is," said Christopher Robin.
"Everybody is really," said Pooh. "That's what I think," said Pooh.
"But I don't suppose I'm right," he said.
"Of course you are," said Christopher Robin.


This text is taken from 'The Tao of Pooh' by Benjamin Hoff, published by Mandarin Paperbacks. Also published by Mandarin Paperbacks and written by Benjamin Hoff; 'The Te of Piglet'.

In this second book he makes the explicit statement that it isn't a sequel to his first book, but rather a companion. The book is based around two topics, the concept of Te, the Chinese word meaning 'power' or 'virtue' and Piglet, of the Winnie the Pooh books. In his first book, he brings out the essential tenets and perspectives of Taoism, in terms accessible to Westerners. In his second book, he elucidates the Taoist concept of 'Virtue - of the small'; though, he also uses it as an opportunity to elaborate on his introduction to Taoism. It is written with many embedded stories from the A.A. Milne Winnie the Pooh books, both for entertainment and because they serve as very useful tools for explaining Taoism -most Chinese stories are rather inaccessible to Westerners.

In The Te of Piglet, Piglet is shown to possess great power -a common interpretation of the word Te, which more commonly means Virtue-, not only because he is small, but, also, because he has a great heart or, to use a Taoist/Chinese word, Tz'u. The book goes through the other characters— Tigger, Owl, Rabbit, Eeyore, and Pooh—to show the various aspects of our humanity that Taoism says gets in the way of living in harmony with the Tao.

Yin-Yang Symbol 

HOW TO USE THE FIVE ELEMENTS OF FENG SHUI TO CREATE HARMONY IN YOUR HOME

Here in an overview of the "Five Elements" that make up the principle of "Feng Shui" and how you can incorporate them into your home to make it a "Zen" or harmonius place.

First the "Five Elements"

Are the natural forces of Fire and Water, which one brought together in a unity of opposites. Both forces are purifying as well as protective. Connected with the cosmic powers of the sun and moon. Where they are truly combined. Fire(as the sun) is usually male and water(as the moon) female.

Water-Yin Value

Always in motion. Changes colour in the light of the stars, reflects the world of man, "speaks" with murmering and roaring, brings new life to dried out vegitation, refreshes men and animals, the tired and the ill and heals. Because it dissolves earth it is also suitable for purifying the soul. Water also demonstrates destructive forces.

Fire-Yang Value

Considered to be a personified animated or living power it moves violently, devours and becomes hungrier, it spread fast into a giant blaze and is red like human blood and warm like the human body. I makes the plants that it has devoured suitable for fertilizing the earth, it shines brightly in the night and by transference may have "eternal life" or by rekindling can be made into a "perpetual fire".

It's chief functions are similar to water, to purify and to ward off evil. Fire is believed to have heavenly origins.

Earth and Wood-Yin Value of Water

Metal-Yang Value of Fire

Here is where and how you can use the elements in your home to trigger the maximum amount of Reflection, Serenity and Creativity that you can.

Entrance Ways

It is important that the flow of Chi from the front to the back of your home is not hindered. It is also best to have it flow through in a meandering path and not a direct line. Entrance ways off the street or through your garden to the front door will determine the qualities of Chi that flow into your home. Therefore it is important to use curved pathways or garden beds. Breaking up the direction of pavers to allow curved lines will also help. A birdbath, fountain or a small pond along the way will bring balance and improve the qualities of Chi.

Too large a doorway will allow Chi to escape from your home. If this is a problem for you it can be easily counteracted by placing Windchimes outside the door. This will also discourage Sha (negative energy) from entering your home. Too small a doorway will not allow enough Chi to enter the home, but placing a mirror on either side of the door or on a wall opposite the door will help to fix the problem.

If the back door can be seen from the front door, Chi can flow straight through your home without circulating. Placing a large potted plant or a screen in between the two will break up the straight lines and help to deflect Chi.

The entrance hall is most auspicious in terms of Feng Shui as it is the place where one might pause upon entering or leaving the home, thus being energized by the Chi that flows through it. Entrance halls that have no windows or doors leading from them or are enclosed in some way can cause Chi to stagnate. Again mirrors or a ceiling fan or maybe a small water fountain will solve this problem.

Stairways

Poorly positioned stairways can cause problems in the way they defect Chi. A stairway directly opposite the front door will allow most of the Chi to rush through and up to the next level causing the ground floor to starve. Mirrors, Windchimes, potted plants and screens are all effective ways of slowing down the movement of Chi in this case.

If you have an open stairway that uses risers as opposed to filled in steps it will not allow enough Chi to flow to the next floor. Placing plants beneath the stairs will help to deflect Chi upwards, thus allowing the flow to continue. A skylight over the stairs will also help improve the situation.

Stairways that curve along their path are obviously ideal, but what can be done to help if there is too sharp a bend. Again we solve this dilemma with the use of mirrors, plants or Windchimes.

Lounge Room

The lounge room is the place reserved for relaxation, conversation, interaction and relationships. It is therefore considered in Feng Shui terms to be the heart of the home.

The lounge room should be in the south side of the home or should face south. West is also a good outlook and it should have a pleasant view. If the view from your lounge room has harsh lines or angles such as a neighbouring home or a city skyline, try breaking the lines up with large plants.

Your lounge room should be square or rectangular in shape and the furniture should be placed so as to break opposing straight lines. This will allow Chi to flow gently through a room. Alcoves and dead areas can be broken up with the placement of plants, large items of furniture or fish tanks.

Flat ceilings are best for promoting the flow of Chi. If, however, you have a sloped ceiling or exposed beams you should use Windchimes or bamboo flutes as a remedy.

Many lounge rooms are adjacent to dining rooms or kitchens and in these cases it is best to have a visual barrier placed between them such as a screen or large plants. If you have doors in between, try to keep them closed.

Seating in your lounge room should be placed in a way that breaks up direct pathways. Avoid placing the back of a lounge chair or settee directly toward a wall. This will break the lines and secret arrows which produce Sha energy. There should also be an even number of seats in the room. The most comfortable seat in the room should be reserved for a guest and should never have its back facing a door. The lounge room should have an open and inviting feel to it. Avoid overcrowding the room with furniture. If necessary remove the least used items in the room to achieve this feeling. An area that has stagnant Chi is best remedied with an aquarium or a television. The placement of flowers or potted plants are also effective enhancers for these areas.

Colour your room wisely. Don't use harsh colours or colours that oppose the furniture or artwork. Where possible derive the colours from your artwork to help create a harmony between the two. Soft pastels are always good. Before making a final decision on colour, check the symbolic definition for them. e.g. Yellow = authority, White = purity, Green = longevity, Blue = heavenly blessings, Red = happiness.

Dining Room

The ideal shape for your table is the octagon of the eight sided Bagwa. However tables of this shape are difficult to come by and not always practical. A round table is said by some experts to be "as good" symbolising earth and stability. If your table is rectangular or square, the placing of an octagonal centre piece or place mats is good Feng Shui.To enhance your health, wealth and happiness place the Three Star Gods over looking your dining table



When arranging furniture in the dining room ensure that chairs do not restrict doorways. There should be ample space for guests to walk around the table without having to manoeuvre around chairs or other furniture.

There should be an even number of dining chairs and remember to seat an honoured guest facing the doorway. Dining chairs with a horseshoe shaped back are ideal Feng Shui as this shape represents the "Dragon embracing the Tiger".

If your dining room has no windows a chandelier or a ceiling fan will assist the flow of Chi. Always use soft even lighting in the dining room as well as soft colours such as shades of green or yellow.

Kitchen

The Chinese believe malevolent spirits come from the North and so Good Feng Shui dictates that your Kitchen should NOT face this direction as it may increase the chance of mishaps. The use of crystals or Windchimes hanging from windows or doorways facing this direction is an effective cure.

The kitchen sink represents water and your stove represents fire. Ideally these two elements should not be side-by-side. The stove should be positioned so as to avoid the cook standing with their back to a doorway. A mirror or any highly reflective kitchen appliance placed above the stove will counteract this problem by providing reflection so that the cook can not be taken by surprise. Good lighting and ventilation by the stove will reduce the influence of Sha.

White is the preferred colour for kitchens. It symbolises purity and therefore promotes good health from well prepared (pure) food. Cutlery should not be stored in a stagnant area as the negative influence on sharp object will serve to cut your health. Place them in a drawer nearest to the doorway or window.

A toilet next to a kitchen produces Sha (negative energy). Keeping the door closed and the toilet lid down will help as will the placement of a Bagwa on the toilet door.

Bedroom

Adults will benefit more from a bedroom facing west into gentle rays of the setting sun, where as children will reap the rewards of the bedroom facing east toward the invigorating morning rays. Those with no children should decide which is best for themselves, be it a deeper more relaxing sleep (west) or the vitality and motivation of morning (east).

The bed should not be placed so that the occupants feet face a doorway. This is the way the deceased are carried from a room. Neither should your bed directly face a window as the glare attracts Sha energy. A Windchimes or Bagwa will remedy this situation.

No more than two mirrors should be placed in a bedroom as this will excite Chi and avoid placing a mirror at the foot of the bed or opposite a window. A bedroom beside the living room is good Feng Shui and in the case of a two-storey home directly above a lounge room.

Remember this is a room for relaxation the colours you choose should be peaceful and tranquil. Too vibrant a colour will excite Chi making it difficult to rest. This also applies to the lighting in your bedroom. Try lowering the wattage of the globes used in this room.

Bathroom

The bathroom facing north is ideal as this direction is associated with water. The colours Blue and Black are favoured here for their significance to water also. North is also associated with malevolent spirits and therefore subject to mishap. Great care should be taken to ensure the safety of children and the elderly for this reason. Sharp objects and non-slip surfaces are things to consider as are the proximity of water to electrical outlets.

Bathrooms and toilets are used for hygiene. These rooms can actually pollute Chi and so we encourage the speedy flow of Chi here. The aim is to wash away the pollution and replace the Chi as quickly as possible. Breezy windows, mirrors and Feng Shui crystals will assist the flow of Chi. Keep the toilet door closed and the lid down also place a Bagwa Mirror (Octagonal) on the door.

Since we are encouraging the flow of Chi in this area we need to be careful not to drain Chi from a wealth area such as a home office or study nearby.

Ensure that from the bath or shower the door can be seen, a carefully placed mirror can help prevent the bather from being taken by surprise.

Study

It is important to keep this room tidy and uncluttered as failing to do so will produce Sha. As this is a room where we require creativity and contemplation we must do all we can to produce Chi. It is helpful to have an area with no shelving where a comfortable high-backed chair can be placed for quite contemplation. The Chinese refer to this area as the Ming T'ang. Placing a picture symbolising water behind the chair will help encourage the flow of creative energy.

Place the desk so that the window is to the left of the seating position and so that the door can be seen from the desk. Do not allow the occupants back to face the door. If there is no window available put a mirror in its place.

Take care to remedy the view of threatening elements from the window with Windchimes or plants. Cactus and Bamboo are plants grown in very harsh conditions and symbolise good fortune, thus making them ideal for placement in the home office, study or wealth area. Any sharp leaved plants are good Feng Shui in this area as they are believed to deter harmful influences.

This and more can be found at: http://www.all-about-feng-shui.info/free-feng-shui-tips-for-homes.html

ORIGINS OF "CHI" AND IT'S RELATIONSHIP TO THE CONCEPTS OF "YIN AND YANG"

Lets start with a few basic definitions.

Chi-short form of the Chinese concept of Tai Chi- meaning "Great Ultimate".

Tai Chi- The book of Changes or the "I Ching" defines Tai Chi as "The external source and cause of reality". Simply put, every source of matter in the cosmos is effected by two primary energies.

Yin- The passive

Yang- The active

I Ching- One of the five Chinese classics of Confucianism. Origionally used for divination, popularity and influence grew due to a system of cosmology that saw man and nature as a single system.

The uniqueness of the "I Ching" consists in its presentation of 64 symbolic hexagrams that if properly understood and interpreted are said to contain profound meanings applicable to daily life. The hexagrams are formed by joining in pairs, one above the other, eight basic trigrams. each trigram has a name, a root meaning and a symbol meaning.

Wen Wang- (12th century) Is generally credited with having formed the hexagrams.

The hexagrams are created in one of several ways. the hexagram is built up from the bottom, line by line, by successive lots. Solid lines have the number nine, broken lines have the number six. Solid lines represent "Yang" (the cosmic male principle), while broken lines represent "Yin" (the female, cosmic principle).

Individual lines of a hexagram have been compared to single notes of music. Though each note has a quality and significance itself, its truest significance depends on its place in a musical score. since the same principle applies to individual lines of a hexagon, the "I Ching" text explains each line seperately, then gives an overall interpretation of the unit. The text is often cryptic and though provoking, allowing a wide range of intpretatio amongst users.

Yin-Yang- The two complementary forces or principles, that make up all aspects and phenomena of life.

"Yin" is conceived from the earth, female, dark, passive and obsorbing, it is present in even numbers, in valleys and streams and is represented by the tiger, the colour orange and a broken line.

"Yang" is conceived the heavens, male, light, active and penetrating. It is present in odd numbers, in mountains and is represented by the dragon, the colour azure and an unbroken line.

The two are both said to proceed from the Supreme Ultimate (T'ai Chi). They interplay on one another (as one increases, the other decreases) being a description of the actual process of the universe. In harmony, the two depicted as the light and dark halves of a circle. The concept of Yin-Yang is associated in Chinese thought with the idea of five elements (Wu Hsing).

Neo-Confucian- Philosophers of the Sung Dynasty (A.D 960-1279) associated Tai-Chi with the concept of "Li" ("principle"); the supreme rational principle of the universe.

Li encompasses Chi(Virtual matter). Transformed through the Yin and Yang cycles of development into the "Five Elements" (wood, earth, fire, metal, water).

Neo-Confucianism- The NeoConfucian philosophy, in the narrow sense is traditionally traced through a line of thinkers, from Chou-Tan-I (1017-73), through Shao- Yung (1011-77), Chung Tsai (1020-77), brothers Ch'eng I (1033-1107) and Ch'eng Hao (1032-85) and finally the great Chu Hsi (1130-1200).

Chou Tan I and Shao-Yung regarded precursors of the Neo-Confucian movement than as its founders, both influenced by modes of thought that had been current in Taoist circles in late T'ang Dynasty and they concentrated on cosmic speculation.

Chang Tsai-Concerned with developing a meta physical system based on the complementary principles of Yin-Yang.

Ch'eng Brothers-Brought the movement to maturity by shifting emphasis from Cosmotology back to human affairs.

Chang Tsai-Concept of Chi (defined litterally as "Air")

Cheng I-Added the concept of Li(reason) to give understanding of both the world and the human mind. The philosophy became known as Li Hsueh (Study of Reason).

Ch'eng Hao-Developed the philosophy with a some what different emphasis, giving rise to the divergent branch of Neo-Confucism known as Hsin Hsueh (Study of Mind).

Chu Hsi-A century later, gave definitive form to the philosophical system. The basic concept of Li(reason).

Li is something inmaterial, immutable and inherent in all things. Gives them form and constitutes their essence. All things posses Li from their first movement of existance and nothing does not have Li. On the other hand Li can exist without things. Thus Li can exist without things but things cannot exist without Li. In the universe their exists an overall Li, which embraces and unites the Li of all things and is called the "T'ai Chi". Simply, "this is the highest of all, beyond which nothing can be". The relation between the T'ai Chi and Li is not that of whole and part.

Li-Constitutes only "a pure empty and vast world, without shape or faces"
Chi-Brings things into existance.

Hence both are necessary in every things existance. Chi bringing the two into being and Li making the thing what it is (the physical nature of a thing eg. man or bird). The Li has become known as human nature that is inherent in the individual. Li for all man is the same, it is the Chi that makes them different (a certain type of quality of man). The Chi in some individuals is clear and they are the excellors, while in some others is cloudy and they are the fools and knaves. On the basiss of this doctrine of Li and Chi, Chu Hsi presents the theory of human nature.

"On one hand, human nature is good because of the Li of humanity can be nothing but good. On the other hand evil exists because of the individuals physical nature or the kind of chi he receives."

The concept of T'ai Chi was underlined in the 11th century by Chou Tun I. Together with Yung, added a strong Taoist strain to the formulation of Neo-Confucism.

Tsai-First spoke of the concept of Chi. Stressing the complete unity of all things. The identification of man, heaven and earth.

In the direct line of Chu Hsi's mentors were the Cheng Brothers. Both made the concepto f Li prominent in their teachings, but also marked a doctorial rift within Neo-Confucism. The concepts at issue are those of Li(principle) and Hsin(mind).

Two Schools

Chu Hsi-(Li Hsuch)-Interpretation of Li and Hsin followed the teachings of Cheng I. His philosophy states "Mind is Li, inherent in things, there is no abstract, Li is eternal"

Lu Chiu-Yuan-(Hsin Hsueh)-Faithful to Ch'eng Hao. His philosophy states "The universe is the mind, the mind is the universe".

The difference is fundamental, Chu Hsi advocated a dualistic system based on the concept of Li and Chi. While Lu Chiu-Yuan advocated a monistic system of the mind, which controlled the universe including the Li.

Taoism and Confucianism

Confucianism is concerned with human society and the social responsibilities of its members. Taoism emphasises nature and what is natural and spontaneous in man. The two traditions "within society" and "beyond society" complement each other and balance.

Taoism- The idea of Yin and Yang. Yin and Yang literally mean "dark side" and "sunny side" of a hill. They are meantioned for the first time in the "Appended Explanations" or the Hsi Tz'u (4th century BC) an appendix to the I Ching.

In the Hsi Tz'u it describes how the one "Promordial Breath" split into the light Yang breath, which formed Heaven. The heavier Yin breath, formed Earth. The diversifications and interactions of Yin and Yang produced the Ten Thousand Beings.

"The warm breath of Yang accumulated to produce fire, the essence of which formed the sun. The cold breath of Yin accumulated to produce water, the essence of which became the moon."

Yin and Yang are often refered to as two breaths or "Chi". Chi means "air" or cosmic energy.

The Primordial Breath

Is a name of the chaos (state of unity) in which the original life force is not yet divided into the phases that the concepts of Yin and Yang describe. Every man has a portion of the primordial life force allotted to them at birth and their task is not to use it up foolishly, but rather strengthen it, control it and increase it in order to live out their full span of life. Another important set of notions associated with the school of Yin-Yang are the "Five Agents" or "phases" or "powers". They being water, fire, wood, metal and earth. They are also "breaths".

Sung Dynasty(960-1279AD)

Founded when Chao K'uang-Yin, the military inspector general of the Chau dynasty. Last of the "Five Dynasties", took control of the empire by coup. Followed Confucion principles; lived modestly.

Five Dynasties

Between the fall of the T'ang(AD907) and the founding of the Sung(960) when five would be dynasties followed on e another in quick succession in North China.

1. Later Liang- Established by rebel leader Chu Wen. Murdered by his own son in 912AD.

2.Later T'ang- Later Liang overthrown by one of its own generals. Li Ts'un-Lsu in 923AD.

3.Later Chin-Later T'ang terminated when one of its generals Shih Ching-T'ang, overthrew his master with the aid of the Khitan, a people from Inner Asia, when Shih Ching-T'angs son attempted to end the tribute payments to the Khitan in 946AD he was taken captive.

4.Later Han-947AD former Later Chin general Liu Chihyuan, pushed the Khitan back into Inner Asia. But his regime only lasted four years.

5. Later Chou-Another general overthrew the thrown. The emperor died leaving an infant son on the thrown. As a result another general, Chao K'uang-Yin seized the thrown, founding the more long-lived "Sung Dynasty, thus bringing the "Five Dynasties" period to an end.

This period was in which printing blocks were developed and the first complete printing of the "Confucian Classics" was developed.

Confucianism

Was the way of life from the 6th to the 5th century BC, followed by the Chinese people for more than two thousand years. Traditionally the substance of learning, a source of values and the social code as well as a religion and a philosophy. Confucianism affected the daily lives of Taoists, Buddhists and Christians alike, until the establishment of the Communist regime.

Confucius lived in an era of political violence and social digration. In China he attracted 3,000 students to his modes of thought and action concerning restoration of harmony and order. In the late Chou period Confucianism became one of the six major philosphical schools, along with Taoism and the school of Yin-Yang.

It was not until the Han Dynasty (206BC-AD220), that Confucionism was adopted by the state as orthodoxy. One of the six classical texts considered important during this period was the I Ching.

Excerpts courtesy ofthe Encyclopedia Brittanica.