Christmas Offerings From Myself and my Family

The Angels Story

Through the blue and frosty heavens,
Christmas stars were shining bright.
Glistening lamps throughout the city
Matched their gleaming light.
The winter snow was lying,
And the winter winds were sighing,
Long ago one Christmas night.

From every tower and steeple
Pounding bells sounded clear.
With such tones of gladness
Signalling that Christmas time was near.
Many a one that night was merry,
Celebrating their toils through out the year.

Te right, saw old wrongs forgivin,
Friends long parted, reconciled,
Voices unused raised in laughter.
Mournful eyes that rarely smiled;
Trembling hearts that feared the morrow,
From their anxious thoughts beguiled.

Rich and poor felt love and blessing
From the gracious season fall,
Joy and pleanty in the cottage,
Peace and feasting in the hall,
And the voices of children
Ringing clear above it all!

Written by my sister Denise Forty, 2004

Reginald and Denise would like to wish you all a safe and Happy Christmas.
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Our Family Newsletter

Happy holidays from our family to yours!

Hello and happy holidays! Once again I have decided to send out a newsletter to wish all a Merry Christmas and to let everyone know what's going on in our family. We will not be able to make it down to Hamilton this year and this is the next best thing to being there. In this newsletter I will update you on family news, interests and throw in some recipes and pictures to brighten your Holiday season. I hope you find the context informative and entertaining.

Family News

Dan: I still drive for Amey's taxi(Kingston, Ontario). I recently had a couple of hernias repaired and am doing great now.

I run an online golf league called Golfers United, you can find it at "http://home.cogeco.ca/~golfersunited/index.html

I also race NASCAR online with East Coast Motor Sports at href="http://www.ecmsl.org/

I also play America's Army online at http://www.gig-aa.com/americasarmy/index.asp

You can talk to me online through my MSN taxi34dtrl@netscape.net or ICQ GU_TAXIMAN34 (11-008-242) or Yahoo Messenger at "taxi34_dtrl" or e-mail dmassie@cogeco.ca.

Cherylanne: I still work at Kingston Brew Pub as a cook. In my spare time I like to work on our family web site. http://www.dancheryl.com/
There you find all kind of good things that we like and links to all our favourite things. you can find me at our e-mail dmassie@cogeco.ca and my ICQ Bulldog (94-341-007)

James 2005

I am in grade 9 at QECVI High School. I am doing good and get good grades. I am involved in many extra curricular school projects for the school charity, the community and the enviorment. I have already aquired the 40hrs. community service hours required to graduate. I have built a website at http://www.jamesloveys.piczo.com/?cr=2&rfm=y. I am taking dramatic arts this year and I am in the play "The Best Christmas Pageant Ever".

Photos From "The Best Christmas Pageant"







Over Halloween I was a zombie in the Scaretacular event at the Kingston Family Funworld. It was fun and I earned community service hrs. My e-mail and MSN is james91@cogeco.ca.

Tracy 2005

I am in grade 6 at JG Simcoe and am doing good and getting grood grades. I like to draw and do crafts, like making things out of craft lace called gimp. I really love the Bratz dolls. I am in carpentry and have built a CD holder and am now doing a bird house. I am also involved in bucket drumming, we recently preformed at the school simcoe star assembly. I got my ears pierced for my birthday and will be able to take the studs out and wear regular earrings by February. I like to talk to my friends on MSN you can find mee too at tracy94@cogeco.ca

Tabby: I am still spoiled princess cat and do what ever I want.

Christmas Dinner

Roast Turkey Dinner

1 Turkey
1 Loaf of Bread
1/2 + 1 cup of chicken stock or white wine
1 cup of celery(diced)
1 cup of onions(diced)
1 cup mushrooms(sliced)
2 tbls. garlic(minced)
sage or poultry seasoning
salt
pepper
butter
flour

Rinse turkey well with cold water and set aside. In a fry pan melt a little butter and saute celery, onions, mushrooms, and garlic until tender, set aside to cool. Break bread up into small pieces. Add veg, mixture to bread with 1/2 cup stock/wine. Add 3 to 4 tbls, sage or poultry seasoning and salt and peeper to taste. Mix stuffing well. Stuff turkey. Place turkey in roasting pan. Rub turkey with butter and sprinkle sage or poultry seasoning all over turkey. Pour 1 cup stock or wine in bottom of roaster. Cover roaster and place in 350 degree oven. Cook turkey for about 15 to 20 min per pound. Baste turkey every 1/2 hour.

Turkey Gravy

Remove pan drippings from roaster, and enough stock or wine to drippings to make 2 cups. Make a rue (butter and flour) in a sauce pan, pour drippings and stock mixture slowly into rue wisking vigorously. Season to taste and bring to boil, cook for one minute. Searve with your favourite veggies and favourite style potatoes.

Christmas Cake

1 pound pitted prunes
1 pound raisins
1 1/2 pounds currants
1/4 pound cherries
1/2 cup brandy
1/4 cup dark rum
2 cups flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 1/4 cups butter
1 pound dark brown sugar
9 eggs
2 teaspoons nutmeg
1 teaspoons cloves
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 cup molasses

Method

Preheat oven to 250 degrees F. In a large bowl, soak fruit in wine and rum. In another large bowl, sift flour and baking powder together: set aside. In another large bowl, cream butter and sugar well. Add eggs one at a time, blending well after each addition. Add spices and molasses; stir. Add fruit mixture to the batter and mix well. Add flour mixture last and stir thoroughly combined. Spoon batter into a pan lined with geased paper and cover with greased paper. Bake for 2 hours.

Let cool and enjoy!!

My Angels are growing up. Merry Christmas And A Happy New Year.
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For my mother, Christmas will never be the same without her.

Mother's Soul, The
by Isabella Valancy Crawford

When the moon was horned the mother died,
And the child pulled at her hand and knee,
And he rubbed her cheek and loudly cried:
'O mother, arise, give bread to me!'
But the pine tree bent its head,
And the wind at the door-post said:
'O child, thy mother is dead !'
The sun set his loom to weave the day;
The frost bit sharp like a silent cur;
The child by her pillow paused in his play:
'Mother, build up the sweet fire of fir !'
But the fir tree shook its cones,
And loud cried the pitiful stones:
'Wolf Death has thy mother's bones!'

They bore the mother out on her bier;
Their tears made warm her breast and shroud;
The smiling child at her head stood near;
And the long, white tapers shook and bowed,
And said with their tongues of gold,
To the ice lumps of the grave mold:
'How heavy are ye and cold!'

They buried the mother; to the feast
They flocked with the beaks of unclean crows.
The wind came up from the red-eyed east
And bore in its arms the chill, soft snows.
They said to each other: 'Sere
Are the hearts the mother held dear;
Forgotten, her babe plays here!'

The child with the tender snowflakes played,
And the wind on its fingers twined his hair;
And still by the tall, brown grave he stayed,
Alone in the churchyard lean and bare.
The sods on the high grave cried
To the mother's white breast inside:
'Lie still; in thy deep rest bide!'

Her breast lay still like a long-chilled stone,
Her soul was out on the bleak, grey day;
She saw her child by the grave alone,
With the sods and snow and wind at play.
Said the sharp lips of the rush,
'Red as thy roses,O bush,
With anger the dead can blush !'

A butterfly to the child's breast flew,*
Fluttered its wings on his sweet, round cheek,
Danced by his fingers, small, cold and blue.
The sun strode down past the mountain peak.
The butterfly whispered low
To the child: 'Babe, follow me; know,
Cold is the earth here below.'

The butterfly flew; followed the child,
Lured by the snowy torch of its wings;
The wind sighed after them soft and wild
Till the stars wedded night with golden rings
Till the frost upreared its head,
And the ground to it groaned and said:
'The feet of the child are lead!'

The child's head drooped to the brown, sere mold,
On the crackling cones his white breast lay;
The butterfly touched the locks of gold,
The soul of the child sprang from its clay.
The moon to the pine tree stole,
And silver-lipped, said to its bole:
'How strong is the mother's soul !'

The wings of the butterfly grew out
To the mother's arms, long, soft and white;
She folded them warm her babe about,
She kissed his lips into berries bright,
She warmed his soul on her breast;
And the east called out to the west:
'Now the mother's soul will rest!'

Under the roof where the burial feast
Was heavy with meat and red with wine,
Each crossed himself as out of the east
A strange wind swept over oak and pine.
The trees to the home-roof said:
' 'Tis but the airy rush and tread
Of angels greeting thy dead.'

For my Dad. He always went out of his way to make Christmas special for each of his children.

link
Father And Son
Laura L., Woolwich, ME

Father and Son

In a grey chair
by the fire,
Slouches a man
with a boy,
Stretched contentedly
across his chest.
Eyes closed, mouths slightly parted
sleeping.
The boy's quiet breathing
almost drowned out,
by the man's ragged breath.
The boy's fair skin
and blond hair
Stand out against the man's
dark hair.
As the boy nestles closer,
Sighing,
softly,
wrapping tiny-dimpled hands
around a wind-burned neck.
The man's thick, work-worn hands
pull the boy closer.
Returning a hug neither
will remember
When they
wake-up.

I will post more correspondance from the other members of my family as soon as they arrive. From me to you, I wish you all warm holiday wishes and hope for a prosperous new year.

Later,
Kenaz

Tales From The Set

Well I just got home from the set of "Man of the Year", the latest from Robin Williams. I'll tell you more when I actually see set, I'm back tommorrow, down in the north end on Victoria Street. All I know for now is what IMDB says, Directed by Barry Levinson, starring Williams as the president, Laura Linney as his wife and also starring Christopher Walken. The tenative plot outline is as follows "On a lark, the host of a late-night political talk show (Williams) decides to run for president. The thing is, he never expected to win."

For a treat I was a mile from my home, and for a bigger treat I caught up on what's new with a guy I don't see too much, John Migliore. John is a school teacher, here in Hamilton, who's been doing background for as long as I have.

Tonight he mentioned that the tornado that hit a Hamilton middle school back in November was in fact the one that he taught at!

Anywho, it was a pleasure to see John again, please click on his link and view his great site that has to do with his cartooning and also contains screen captures from various movies he has done.

It was a pleasant surprise when he mentioned that he had a screen capture of me from "Resident Evil: Apocalypse". I had poured through this movie and don't even remember faintly seeing this shot. So along with the origional photo of myself and John taken on set here is the screen capture.

Resident Evil: Apocalypse, myself and John.

Myself and John Resident Evil: Apocalypse

Large photo

Later,
Kenaz

TICATS HIRE PAOPAO, EXTEND MARSHALL

In Hamilton, for the past few years, putting together the winning puzzle for the Tiger Cats has been as difficult as putting together one of those two thousand piece three dimensional ones, without the help of a picture.

But this off season it finally looks like the Cat's have their picture in hand and are eager to build their model of success. This week Hamilton extended head coach Greg Marshall's contract through the 2007 season and yesterday Hamilton confirmed the appointment of Joe Paopao to Marshall's staff , introducing the former Renegades head coach as the Ticats' new offensive co-ordinator and defensive co-ordinator Kavis Reed had received one-year extensions through the 2007 season.

"He's a coach that's very knowledgeable offensively," Marshall said. "He's going to be a great fit here in Hamilton ... he's going to have the respect of our guys right from the get-go, just on his reputation and what he's done.

"He's a good teacher and, aside from being a great football coach, he's an outstanding person."

The Ticats also added Kani Kauahi as their new offensive line coach. Kauahi, who has been with Paopao in B.C., San Francisco and Ottawa, was the Renegades' offensive co-ordinator and offensive line coach.

"They know each other [and] what they want to do," Marshall said.

Paopao can find effective ways to use Hamilton's offensive assets, which include newly-acquired quarterback Jason Maas and running back Jesse Lumsden, the club's 2005 first-round draft pick.

"In the past, [Paopao has] been very adaptable, based on the quarterback and the running back and the other personnel that you have," Marshall said. "He will build an offence that is perfect for our personnel."

Lumsden, a hometown hero who starred for Marshall at Hamilton's McMaster University, is a player the team's marketers would love to see blossom into a CFL star. Marshall indicated the team will emphasize the ground game in the often pass-happy league.

"We're going to run the football," he said. "I know both Joe and Kani believe, to be successful, you just can't pass all the time. You have to build it on the running game."

Marshall was also pleased that ownership was willing to build with their head coach. He won the CFL's coach of the year award in his rookie season, when he took a team that went 1-17 in 2003 and made the playoffs with an 9-8-1 record. The Ticats slipped back last year, finishing 5-13.

"It's good security for me," Marshall said of the extension. "It shows that the football team and [owner Bob] Young and [general manager] Rob Katz are confident I can do the job here. They said all along that they believe in me and what we're doing, and I'm committed to getting this thing done and seeing it through."

more from the CFL

The Cat's have their coaches, QB and ground attack in place now time to move on to the other missing pieces like a veteran O-lineman, a WR, a LB, and a safety. Nice to see the team getting a head start on 2006.

Later,
Kenaz

A Screen Capture From Wonderfalls

Back in 2003-2004 I had the opportunity to work a far bit on the FOX series "Wonderfalls". The series was never given a chance by the big wigs. They kept it out of the important January sweeps weeks, in fear of the show being called a "Joan of Arcadia" rip off? Anyway, a little tweaking here and there and what the public saw was only three episodes of a series about a girl working in a gift shop who heard an assortment of souveniers talking to her. What the viewers missed was the quirky humour that you needed a full season to mature. I'm glad up here in Canada the Vision Channel "saw" Fox's err and ran the complete 18 episode series, giving this series its due.



Later,
Kenaz

Unification (2005)

Unification(2005)-18"x12" Mixed Media on paper. The portraits of myself, my father and mother sitting together represent the unbreakable bond a child has with their parents. This bond is further illistrated by the background. Wind, water, earth and fire represents the harmony of nature, along with their siblings wood, and steel all comune in unified bliss. 

Later,
Kenaz

Screen Captures From Playmakers

From the set of Playmakers Episode 3 "The Choice part 1". This picture was from July 2003, shot in Toronto's then Skydome now the Rodgers Centre.

Here is a screen capture from a DVD rip of me in action.


Later,
Kenaz

Rune Reading For The Week Of December 12-December 18, 2005

Introduction to Rune Readings

Rune readings are arrangements of the 24 runes (letters) of the old Futhark alphabet. The layout of the runes is known as a spread, and determines what each rune refers to. For example, in the Three Norns spread, the first rune represents the past, the second the present, and the third the future.

Sets: In addition to each rune having a meaning, the material in which the runes are carved can color the reading. Most people consistently use runes made of ceramic, stone, or wood. In order to broaden your experience, we offer readings with Gold Runes (for questions about business, career, and property), Jade Runes (for questions about love, friendship, and relationships), Ice Runes (for questions about struggle, conflict, and achievement), Spirit Runes (for questions about mysticism, spirituality, and religion), and Stone Runes (for questions about the natural world and things beyond human control).

Here we go. (This weeks Rune reading is not a good one, but remember, that not all journeys leave us feeling positive. But this doesn't mean we can't learn valuable lessons from adversity. Eventually turning the negative into a possitive.)

The question will remain the same: "Will this week be a successful one?"

Rune Alphabet



Spread:Cross(in order of reading)
The Cross spread is used to plot the arc of your life and the forces acting on it. It is the most popular spread, giving a very complete view of the situation. Ice Runes are most commonly used for questions about struggle, conflict, and achievement.




Here is the Reading Using the Ice Set.

1.


The left rune represents an important element of the past. Dagez means daylight, and represents divine light. This rune generally refers to dawn (the initial sparking of energy) or to midday (the climax of energy). Both dawn and midday are symbolic of change, but unlike the changes in the perpetual circle of the year which are slow and subtle, the changes over a day are much faster and more dramatic. The breaking of a new day is symbolic of the rapid illumination of dismal circumstances, and is suggestive of Satori. Be careful - although this rune generally suggests a positive change, the symbology of a peaking point suggests that there must be a change downward as well. Fortunately for some, this rune is cyclic and irreversible, and so permanence is not promised - the only thing you can be sure of is an exciting ride.

2.


The middle rune represents a deciding element of the present. Hagalaz is the rune of hail. Hail is a destructive and elemental force, so one can expect this rune to represent the disruption of one's life. In the harsh northern winter there is a halt to activity, and so delay or hindrance is frequently associated with this rune. The opposite of chaos is yet more chaos, as illustrated by the fact that this rune cannot be reversed.

3.


The right rune represents the critical element of the future, at the core of the final outcome. Thurisaz represents a thorn, the most basic of barriers to our boon or our bane. In the case of hedges, thorns protect our encampments from that which skulks towards us from the outlands. In the case of rosebushes, thorns keep us from beauty. Though thorns are passive and have no thoughts, they puncture, tear, and may even be poisonous. Hence, this rune may also represent irrational violence and anger.

4.


The top rune represents a force that works for you. Nyd represents many things, most of them unpleasant - heed it well. Constraint, delay, loss, need, and sorrow are all frequently seen in this rune. Nyd speaks most strongly of pause, the hallmark of the both the timid and the patient, and is often interpreted as foretelling a delay in the effect of other runes that it accompanies. Fortunately, even where there is misery and danger there are valuable lessons to be learned - the trick is to learn them before you are overtaken by despair.

5.


The bottom Rune represents a force that works against you. Laguz is the rune representing water. Laguz is a strongly feminine rune, and like the ocean contains much power of an uncontrollable nature. Here the rune is seen in the reversed, symbolic of the ebbing tide. This may suggest power being drawn away, or may perhaps the start of a journey. Since this is a rune of sexual power, the reversal can also suggest sexual problems or dissatisfaction.

If you are further interested in Rune stones, please check out a script I wrote about three years ago. The story tells of a women's chance encounter with the towns rune reader and physcic. Her reading leads to a terrible discovery about her ex-husband.Click here to read 'Evil Of A Different Kind'

Later,
Kenaz

Life is all about...

Life is all about... asses.

you're either covering it,
laughing it off,
kicking it,
kissing it,
busting it,
trying to get a piece of it,
or behaving like one ...

That's right, you've been "Elfed".

He who elfs last, elfs loudest!!!!

Holidays are on the way .........

Later,
Kenaz

Screen Captures and DVD Captures From John Q

Back in September of 2000 I spent two weeks on the set of John Q, here are some screen captures and a compilation of dvd captures in which I appear.





Click Here To Viw Clip Of John Q

Later,
Kenaz

Comedian Richard Pryor dies

Groundbreaking American comedian and actor Richard Pryor has died of a heart attack at the age of 65.

Widely considered to have been one of the most influential comedians in the United States, Pryor broke many barriers for African Americans in the business during his heyday in the 1960s and 1970s.

He had been battling multiple sclerosis since 1986 and the debilitating disease forced him to quit performing in 1997. In 2004, it was revealed that he could no longer speak because of the illness.

Born in Peoria, Ill., in December 1940, Pryor had a grandmother who owned a string of brothels and his mother was a prostitute.

He was renowned as a gifted storyteller known for his blunt, often raunchy examinations of race and modern life.

He used vulgarities as well as racial epithets in his desire to reflect real life.

"You can do anything you want and you can say anything that comes to mind, just so long as it's funny," said Pryor.

Pryor, who battled cocaine addiction, often took the tragic events in his life and made them a part of his concert movies and recordings including 1971's Richard Pryor: Live & Smokin', Richard Pryor: Wanted: Live In Concert (1979) and Richard Pryor: Live on the Sunset Strip (1982).

He has several Grammys for his comedy recordings.

He has admitted that a 1980 fire that nearly killed him while free-basing cocaine was actually a suicide attempt.

Pryor appeared in several popular films including Lady Sings the Blues, The Mack, Uptown Saturday Night, Silver Streak, Which Way Is Up?, Car Wash, The Toy, Superman III and Stir Crazy.

In four of his films, he co-starred with Gene Wilder. They where, along with Silver Streak and Stir Crazy, Here No Evil, See No Evil and Another You

In 1998, Pryor won the inaugural Mark Twain Prize for American Humor from the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. Among other kudos, in 2004, the television network Comedy Central voted him the top standup comedian of all time.

He is survived by his fifth wife, Jennifer Lee, and seven children.

Heaven has gained another great mind, I hope the heavens are ready for the echos of a little 'Raw' humour.

"There's a thin line between to laugh with and to laugh at."-Richard Pryor

Later,
Kenaz

Newest Script Finished

It's been a long while, I probably had one of the worst cases of writers block on record, but I finally finished my latest script.

"Cult of Personality (2005)" isn't a light and fluffy feel good script, so be warned, but it is one that makes an important statement.

A brief treatment of this work is as followed. Jessie Riley is an ambitious eighteen year old, fresh from high school looking to start making her mark on the world. Her newlywed husband is Billy Mahern, described by the press at the "next big thing to come out of Oshawa, Ontario hockey system since Eric Lindros".

We start Jessie's journey on an early morning as she steps off the bus from Oshawa in the big city of Toronto. A unassuming trip to a nearby used clothing store becomes the catalist to a world that will change Jessie's and her new friend Briana for ever.

The nexus for this journey comes in the form of Derick Larson, the spiritual leader of the Landing, the place for people to discover their "winning formula". Through carisma and charm Derick has been able to hind a sinister past. A past that will swallow up each character in a storm of darkness, until when all said is done, each life will be effected forever by this "Cult of Personality".

Please feel free to download Cult of Personality from "rapidshare". I uploaded the file in HTML.

Later,
Kenaz

Yes, Virginia, There is a Santa Claus

Editorial Page, New York Sun, 1897

I am 8 years old. Some of my little friends say there is no Santa Claus. Papa says, "If you see it in The Sun, it's so." Please tell me the truth, is there a Santa Claus?
Virginia O'Hanlon

Virginia, your little friends are wrong. They have been affected by the skepticism of a sceptical age. They do not believe except what they see. They think that nothing can be which is not comprehensible by their little minds. All minds, Virginia, whether they be men's or children's, are little. In this great universe of ours, man is a mere insect, an ant, in his intellect as compared with the boundless world about him, as measured by the intelligence capable of grasping the whole of truth and knowledge.

Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus.

He exists as certainly as love and generosity and devotion exist, and you know that they abound and give to your life its highest beauty and joy. Alas! how dreary would be the world if there were no Santa Claus! It would be as dreary as if there were no Virginias. There would be no childlike faith then, no poetry, no romance to make tolerable this existence. We should have no enjoyment, except in sense and sight. The external light with which childhood fills the world would be extinguished.

Not believe in Santa Claus! You might as well not believe in fairies. You might get your papa to hire men to watch in all the chimneys on Christmas eve to catch Santa Claus, but even if you did not see Santa Claus coming down, what would that prove? Nobody sees Santa Claus, but that is no sign that there is no Santa Claus. The most real things in the world are those that neither children nor men can see. Did you ever see fairies dancing on the lawn? Of course not, but that's no proof that they are not there. Nobody can conceive or imagine all the wonders there are unseen and unseeable in the world.

You tear apart the baby's rattle and see what makes the noise inside, but there is a veil covering the unseen world which not the strongest man, nor even the united strength of all the strongest men that ever lived could tear apart. Only faith, poetry, love, romance, can push aside that curtain and view and picture the supernal beauty and glory beyond. Is it all real? Ah, Virginia, in all this world there is nothing else real and abiding.

No Santa Claus?Thank God he lives and lives forever. A thousand years from now, Virginia, nay 10 times 10,000 years from now, he will continue to make glad the heart of childhood.

From The People's Almanac, pp. 1358-9.

Francis P. Church's editorial, "Yes Virginia, There is a Santa Claus" was an immediate sensation, and became one of the most famous editorials ever written. It first appeared in the The New York Sun in 1897, almost a hundred years ago, and was reprinted annually until 1949 when the paper went out of business.

Thirty-six years after her letter was printed, Virginia O'Hanlon recalled the events that prompted her letter:

"Quite naturally I believed in Santa Claus, for he had never disappointed me. But when less fortunate little boys and girls said there wasn't any Santa Claus, I was filled with doubts. I asked my father, and he was a little evasive on the subject.

"It was a habit in our family that whenever any doubts came up as to how to pronounce a word or some question of historical fact was in doubt, we wrote to the Question and Answer column in The Sun. Father would always say, 'If you see it in the The Sun, it's so,' and that settled the matter.

'Well, I'm just going to write The Sun and find out the real truth,' I said to father.

"He said, 'Go ahead, Virginia. I'm sure The Sun will give you the right answer, as it always does.' "

And so Virginia sat down and wrote her parents' favorite newspaper.

Her letter found its way into the hands of a veteran editor, Francis P. Church. Son of a Baptist minister, Church had covered the Civil War for The New York Times and had worked on the The New York Sun for 20 years, more recently as an anonymous editorial writer. Church, a sardonic man, had for his personal motto, "Endeavour to clear your mind of cant." When controversial subjects had to be tackled on the editorial page, especially those dealing with theology, the assignments were usually given to Church.

Now, he had in his hands a little girl's letter on a most controversial matter, and he was burdened with the responsibility of answering it.

"Is there a Santa Claus?" the childish scrawl in the letter asked. At once, Church knew that there was no avoiding the question. He must answer, and he must answer truthfully. And so he turned to his desk, and he began his reply which was to become one of the most memorable editorials in newspaper history.

Church married shortly after the editorial appeared. He died in April, 1906, leaving no children.

Virginia O'Hanlon went on to graduate from Hunter College with a Bachelor of Arts degree at age 21. The following year she received her Master's from Columbia, and in 1912 she began teaching in the New York City school system, later becoming a principal. After 47 years, she retired as an educator. Throughout her life she received a steady stream of mail about her Santa Claus letter, and to each reply she attached an attractive printed copy of the Church editorial. Virginia O'Hanlon Douglas died on May 13, 1971, at the age of 81, in a nursing home in Valatie, N.Y.

Merry Christmas,
Kenaz

The Twelve Days Of Bad Christmas Gifts

Here is a song for all of us who have ever received really bad Christmas gifts from loved ones who meant really well.

On the first day of Christmas, my family gave to me some cheap aftershave but I was only twelve.

On the second day of Christmas, my family gave to me the same novelty coffee mug two years in a row and some cheap aftershave but I was only twelve.

On the third day of Christmas, my family gave to me three cheap best of sports tapes, the same novelty coffee mug two years in a row and some cheap aftershave but I was only twelve.

On the fourth day of Christmas, my family gave to me four packages of computer paper, three cheap best of sports tapes, the same novelty coffee mug two years in a row and some cheap aftershave but I was only twelve.

On the fifth day of Christmas, my family gave to me five ugly sweaters, including a purple L.A Kings jersey but I'm a Leaf fan!, four packages of computer paper, three cheap best of sports tapes, the same novelty coffee mug two years in a row and some cheap aftershave but I was only twelve.

On the sixth day of Christmas, my family gave to me, a six pack of McDonalds gift certificates, five ugly sweaters, including a purple L.A Kings jersey but I'm a Leaf fan!, four packages of computer paper, three cheap best of sports tapes, the same novelty coffee mug two years in a row and some cheap aftershave but I was only twelve.

On the seventh day of Christmas, my family gave to me, seven bargain bin dance music cds, a six pack of McDonalds gift certificates, five ugly sweaters, including a purple L.A Kings jersey but I'm a Leaf fan!, four packages of computer paper, three cheap best of sports tapes, the same novelty coffee mug two years in a row and some cheap aftershave but I was only twelve.

On the eighth day of Christmas, my family gave to me, eight literary peices of fluff like "The Tiger Williams Story", seven bargain bin dance music cds, a six pack of McDonalds gift certificates, five ugly sweaters, including a purple L.A Kings jersey but I'm a Leaf fan!, four packages of computer paper, three cheap best of sports tapes, the same novelty coffee mug two years in a row and some cheap aftershave but I was only twelve.

On the ninth day of Christmas, my family gave to me, nine hand knitted hats with a pom pom, eight literary peices of fluff like "The Tiger Williams Story", seven bargain bin dance music cds, a six pack of McDonalds gift certificates, five ugly sweaters, including a purple L.A Kings jersey but I'm a Leaf fan!, four packages of computer paper, three cheap best of sports tapes, the same novelty coffee mug two years in a row and some cheap aftershave but I was only twelve.

On the tenth day of Christmas, my family gave to me, ten pc games based on reality tv shows, nine hand knitted hats with a pom pom, eight literary peices of fluff like "The Tiger Williams Story", seven bargain bin dance music cds, a six pack of McDonalds gift certificates, five ugly sweaters, including a purple L.A Kings jersey but I'm a Leaf fan!, four packages of computer paper, three cheap best of sports tapes, the same novelty coffee mug two years in a row and some cheap aftershave but I was only twelve.

On the eleventh day of Christmas, my family gave to me, eleven baskets of personal hygiene products, ten pc games based on reality tv shows, nine hand knitted hats with a pom pom, eight literary peices of fluff like "The Tiger Williams Story", seven bargain bin dance music cds, a six pack of McDonalds gift certificates, five ugly sweaters, including a purple L.A Kings jersey but I'm a Leaf fan!, four packages of computer paper, three cheap best of sports tapes, the same novelty coffee mug two years in a row and some cheap aftershave but I was only twelve.

And finally, on the twelfth day of Christmas, my family gave to me, a twelve pack of tighty whities from your mom, eleven baskets of personal hygiene products, ten pc games based on reality tv shows, nine hand knitted hats with a pom pom, eight literary peices of fluff like "The Tiger Williams Story", seven bargain bin dance music cds, a six pack of McDonalds gift certificates, five ugly sweaters, including a purple L.A Kings jersey but I'm a Leaf fan!, four packages of computer paper, three cheap best of sports tapes, the same novelty coffee mug two years in a row and some cheap aftershave but I was only twelve.

Later,
Kenaz

The Twelve Best Christmas Songs

Here is a list of my twelve favourite Christmas songs ever written and performed.

Away in a Manger
I'll Be Home For Christmas
Little Drummer Boy
White Christmas
Silent Night
Dance Of The Sugar Plum Fairy
My Favourite Things-John Coltrane's version is easily the best rendition of this classic. I couldn't find a midi, but a search of your favourite file sharing program will turn up a copy.
O Holy Night
Silent Night
What Child Is This
Do They Know It's Christmas-It's been twenty one years since Sir Bob Geldof organized Live Aid and got everyone together for this great cause. A cause that is still so relevent, the countries may have changed, but the need is the same.

and just because it's so funny,
Grandma Got Run Over By A Reindeer

Later,
Kenaz

Top Ten Worst Christmas Gifts For 2005

From ShopInPrivate.com a company that describes there services this way, "If you have an embarrassing condition that needs attention, you can shop in private for a cure at ShopInPrivate.com. The purchase will be easy, delivery will be fast, and we hold your personal information in the strictest of confidence. We just want you to remember that some items are best purchased for oneself."

Since 1998 ShopInPrivate.com has proudly sold embarrassing items in the world's most private shopping environment. Each year we bring you a list of the worst Christmas gifts. Here are 2005's worst.

10. The Man Catcher Voodoo Kit: Nothing says 'I think you are reaching the point of desperation' more than a gift of voodoo charms meant to attract a mate.

9. The Handi-Cleanse Personal Bidet: While personal hygiene is important, the exact method that your friends and family use to freshen up should be left for them to decide.

8.The Bulge: Even if some people buy an item that fills out the front of their underpants, no one should be given such an item.

7. The Razorba Back Shaver: There is only one way to remove your back hair without enlisting the help of another person. It is called the Razorba, a strange invention and horrible gift idea.

6. Bubbles Butt Lifting Lingerie: Even if it is a good idea. Even if your friend looks the same front-to-back. Even if they weigh 50 pounds less than you. Don't do it.

5. Anal Bleaching Cream: This year E! channel made a big deal out of anal bleaching and sales skyrocketed. Fortunately for all of us anal bleaching cream won't make it on anyone's wish list.

4. The Hardness Factor: Books on erectile dysfunction, while useful, don't work well as stocking stuffers.

3.The Strippers Guide To Looking Great Naked : Some gifts say "I love you". Some gifts say: "I care about you";. This gift says: "I don't like the way you look naked"

2. A Nose Hair Trimmer: Rarely will you see a retailer try to discourage sales but each year we ask people not to buy nose hair trimmers for their relatives. Unfortunately over 1,000 do.

...and the worst gift idea for 2005 is:
1. Cross Dress for Success: Even if Aunt Mildred used to be Uncle Milton you might want to let that tidbit of family history rest for a little while. A how-to book won't solve anything.

Later,
Kenaz

Rune Reading For The Week Of December 5-December 11, 2005

Introduction to Rune Readings

Rune readings are arrangements of the 24 runes (letters) of the old Futhark alphabet. The layout of the runes is known as a spread, and determines what each rune refers to. For example, in the Three Norns spread, the first rune represents the past, the second the present, and the third the future.

Sets: In addition to each rune having a meaning, the material in which the runes are carved can color the reading. Most people consistently use runes made of ceramic, stone, or wood. In order to broaden your experience, we offer readings with Gold Runes (for questions about business, career, and property), Jade Runes (for questions about love, friendship, and relationships), Ice Runes (for questions about struggle, conflict, and achievement), Spirit Runes (for questions about mysticism, spirituality, and religion), and Stone Runes (for questions about the natural world and things beyond human control).

Here we go.

The question will remain the same: "Will this week be a successful one?"

Rune Alphabet



Spread:Cross(in order of reading)
The Cross spread is used to plot the arc of your life and the forces acting on it. It is the most popular spread, giving a very complete view of the situation. Ice Runes are most commonly used for questions about struggle, conflict, and achievement.




Here is the Reading Using the Ice Set.

1.


The left rune represents an important element of the past. Wunjo is the rune of joy. The reversal of this rune suggests that joy is withheld. Since joy is frequently communal, this rune often suggests loneliness. Alternatively, some have seen Wunjo as the rune of perfection and the rune of the gods. Therefore this rune reversed could signal a feeling of separation from one's deity, or as imperfection in an important work.

2.


The middle rune represents a deciding element of the present. Raido means to ride. In this rune, the image is not so much the riding of a horse as in riding in a cart or as cargo. As such Raido may suggest a journey, but is much more indicative of communication. Alternate interpretations based on the use of Raido as a cognate in other words give it the meaning of council, judgment, and moral correctness. Therefore, this rune is the rune of wise advice and good leadership.

3.


The right rune represents the critical element of the future, at the core of the final outcome. Ken is the rune of light and knowledge, driving away darkness and ignorance and revealing hidden truth. This rune also brings forth images of friendship and comfort. Ken is the light of inspiration, the light of imagination, and a beacon in the darkest hours.

4.


The top rune represents a force that works for you. Ger is one of the runes that touches on the cycles of the year, in this case the fall harvest. These cycles are eternal, which is represented in the rune by the fact that it is unchanged by reversal. Ger can represent pregnancy or other forms of fruitfulness, and is especially indicative of the cycles of providence and karma - that which has been sown is now being reaped. This rune can also represent the cycles of wealth, for crops were frequently a sign of wealth.

5.


The bottom Rune represents a force that works against you. Fehu represents cattle the Norse symbol of wealth. This rune has some interesting implications based on the fact that cattle, unlike land, move about of their own accord. Cattle also reproduce, so this rune often speaks of wealth that renews or perpetuates itself. Wealth takes many forms, but this rune generally represents the value that is purely material or monetary in nature. Alternatively, this rune is deeply associated with Frey, and hence can be the harbinger of fertility and children.

Later,
Kenaz

The Twelve Days Of Christmas Classics

These are my top twelve Christmas movie classics of all time. Although "The Song of Bernadette" isn't technically a holliday movie, I included it because of the inspirational message.



How The Grinch Stole Christmas (1966)

Now the story has been redone a couple of times, even including a major motion picture starring Jim Carrey. Despite that, I find that the short made for television version of the story was the best one to date. Created in 1966, this was an animated feature based on the book by Dr. Suess. It covered the exploits of "The Grinch", who had lost is spirit for Christmas over the years. His only goal in life now, is to rid the world of Christmas joy. In order to do this, he will attempt to remove all of the gifts and spirit from the small town of Whoville. The story is really well done, and appeals to a younger audience, but it is still one that I will watch if I ever come across it during the season. The animation was really pretty basic, but I still enjoy the story, and I still enjoy thinking back to the first time I saw it. It clocks it at only 26 minutes, but it still is able to pack a great little story into that time.



A Charlie Brown Christmas (1965)

Charles Schulz brought his comic strip to life, by writing a mad-for-television version of his Peanuts. A Charlie Brown Christmas was about his main character Charlie Brown, and what he and his friends go through one Christmas. This is another animated holiday special, but this one broke a lot of new ground when it was shown. The most important part, was that they used childrens voices in an industry that had been overwhelmed by adult actors playing the roles of the kids. In addition to that, there were biblical references in the story that helped talk about the real meaning of Christmas. Charlie Brown has been around for years, and will be around for many more years, but this was our first glimpse of him and his gang around the holidays. This is one that I own, and I think that it is one of the great stories that shows how children see and react to the true meaning of Christmas.



A Christmas Carol (1951)

Another one of the Christmas stories that has been redone a thousand times, I like this version the best. Some people like the newer Patrick Stewart version, and some even like Scrooged (with Bill Murray) as a great one in the remade versions. I however, really like the original, simply because it seems like it should be in black and white, and the story seems better placed in the past. A Christmas Carol was written by Charles Dickens, and tells the story of an old "scrooge" who wants nothing out of life but to make more money. He sacrifices his family and friends, and everyone that has ever loved him, in the pursuit of becoming richer. He is then visited by ghosts in his old age, attempting to show him the error of his ways, and hoping that he can go down a different path for his remaining days on Earth. It is another great story depicting the importance of being their for your fellow man on Christmas, and it does a great job of giving a scare while telling a deep story. Charles Dickens "A Christmas Carol" will always remain one of the most famous, and most well loved of Christmas stories.



It's A Wonderful Life (1946)

The essential film when it comes to Christmas, It's A Wonderful Life is a story about a man going through some hard times, and makes the wish that he had never been born. Feeling that the world would be better off without him, he wants to remove the pain of everyone around him, by removing himself. For a short time, and angel grants him his wish, and the chance to see what life would be like if he really had never been born. Frank Capra directs, and Jimmy Stewart stars as George Bailey, a family man, who has come across some tough times. The movie is really about hope, and the thought that everyone has something to offer, no matter how small we may feel we are in the scheme of things. The film attempts to show just how much one man can change the lives of everyone around him, and gives us the feeling that even the smallest of deeds can turn into the biggest of deals for someone else. It's A Wonderful Life if a classic Christmas film that has made some lists as one of the best movies ever made.



Miracle on 34th Street (1947)

Is there really a Santa Clause? You bet there is, and this is the film that proves it! Another one of the classic films about Christmas, A Miracle on 34th Street surrounds a man who claims to be none other than Kris Kringle himself. Of course nobody believes him, and it is up to a lawyer and a little girl who must set aside their logical thinking just long enough to have faith that this man could really be THE Santa Clause. Edmund Gwenn as Kringle exemplifies everything we have ever associated with what Santa Clause would look like. He fits the part, and from the start of the movie, you want to believe that it is really him, but you have no proof to go along with your assumptions. It is one mans word, and we are taken through legal proceedings where he must prove who he is, or be deemed insane by the state. It is really a great story about the opinions that people have, and whether or not we are willing to believe something we can't see or prove for ourselves. Miracle on 34th Street is one that should not be missed if you haven't seen it yet.



Frosty The Snowman (1969) (TV)

Another of the great holiday animations, Frosty The Snowman tells the tale of a magical top-hat, that when applied to the head of a snowman, brings him to life. Named Frosty, this man made of snow shows the children of a small town everything great that the Christmas season has to offer. Though it comes it at less than half an hour, this Christmas Special really does a good job of presenting many different emotions in that short amount of time. You find yourself laughing out loud as he marches through town, and even sad at the thought that someone could keep Frosty from having his snowy fun. It is a far-fetched story if we are going to look at it honestly, but it is fun to watch, and it is endearing in everything that it presents. The best part though, is the theme song of Frosty, which is something I always end up singing during the Christmas season. Frosty The Snowman is one of the great animations that came out of the 60's around Christmas time, and still has a place in my home movie collection.



The Bishops Wife (1947)

An episcopal Bishop, Henry Brougham, has been working for months on the plans for a new cathedral paid for by a stubborn widow. He is losing sight of his family and of why he became a churchman in the first place. Enter Dudley, an angel sent to help him. Dudley does help everyone he meets, but not necessarily in the way they would have preferred. With the exception of Henry, everyone loves him, but Henry begins to believe that Dudley is there to replace him, at work, and in his families affections, as Christmas approaches



Holiday Inn (1942)

Lovely Linda Mason has crooner Jim Hardy head over heels, but suave stepper Ted Hanover wants her for his new dance partner after femme fatale Lila Dixon gives him the brush. Jim's supper club, Holiday Inn, is the setting for the chase by Hanover and manager Danny Reed. The music's the thing.



White Christmas (1954)

After leaving the Army after W.W.II, Bob Wallace and Phil Davis team up to become a top song-and-dance act. Davis plays matchmaker and introduces Wallace to a pair of beautiful sisters (Betty and Judy) who also have a song-and-dance act. When Betty and Judy travel to a Vermont lodge to perform a Christmas show, Wallace and Davis follow, only to find their former commander, General Waverly, is the lodge owner. A series of romantic mix-ups ensue as the performers try to help the General.



Babes in Toyland (1934)

Ollie Dee and Stanley Dum try to borrow money from their employer, the toymaker, to pay off the mortgage on Mother Peep's shoe and keep it and Little Bo Peep from the clutches of the evil Barnaby. When that fails, they trick Barnaby into marrying Stanley Dum instead of Bo Peep. Enraged, Barnaby unleashes the bogeymen from their caverns to destroy Toyland.



The Bells Of St. Mary (1945)

Father O'Malley the unconventional priest from 'Going My Way' continues his work for the Catholic Church. This time he is sent to St. Mary's, a run-down parochial school on the verge of condemnation. He and Sister Benedict work together in an attempt to save the school, though their differing methods often lead to good-natured disagreements.



The Song Of Bernadette (1943)

In 1858 France, Bernadette, an adolescent peasant girl, has a vision of "a beautiful lady" in the city dump. She never claims it to be anything other than this, but the townspeople all assume it to be the virgin Mary. The pompous government officials think she is nuts, and do their best to suppress the girl and her followers, and the church wants nothing to do with the whole matter. But as Bernadette attracts wider and wider attention, the phenomenon overtakes everyone in the the town, and transforms their lives.



The Little Drummer Boy (1968) (TV)

When Aaron's family is killed, he hates all people and his only friends are the lamb Baabaa, the donkey Samson and the camel Joshua. But an unscrupulous travelling performer convinces them to join his troupe, and then sells Joshua to a trio of kings. Aaron follows the star to find Joshua, but then Baabaa is badly injured, and Aaron must overcome his hatred of mankind and find a gift with which to approach the babe in the manger and ask for help.

Later,
Kenaz

Tonkin Gulf Cover Up Finally Set Straight

The murky events in the Gulf of Tonkin in August 1964 propelled the United States into the Vietnam War. Over three days, the U.S. government reported two attacks on its destroyers. The first assault by North Vietnamese PT boats on August 2 provoked only a protest from Washington. On the cloudy night of August 4, two U.S. ships detected another apparent ambush. They fired their guns in response, claiming to have sunk several enemy boats. The incident prompted Lyndon Johnson to order airstrikes and obtain what amounted to a declaration of war from Congress.

Now, a newly declassified NSA study--and over 140 formerly top secret intelligence reports--confirm just how wrong McNamara was. Indeed, the 55-page report by NSA historian Robert Hanyok effectively rewrites the history of this pivotal event. Hanyok proves not only that there never was a second attack but that the NSA had plenty of contradictory evidence that was actively suppressed. "The overwhelming body of reports, if used, would have told the story that no attack had happened," Hanyok concludes. "So a conscious effort ensued to demonstrate that the attack occurred."

Hanyok concludes officials "deliberately skewed" intelligence to support the claim of a second attack. But he blames lower-level NSA analysts, not senior political leaders. "The conspiracy was always believed to be that President Johnson and Secretary McNamara basically manipulated the intelligence . . ." says intelligence historian Matthew Aid. "Now, we know the mistakes and conspiracy were widespread but at a midlevel." Still, the Johnson administration set the climate. For one thing, there was intense White House pressure to confirm the attack to clear the way for immediate retaliation. Hanyok quotes Ray Cline, the
CIA's deputy director for intelligence at the time: "We knew it was bum dope that we were getting . . . but we were told only to give the facts with no elaboration on the nature of the evidence. [Johnson] did not like to deal with uncertainties."
full story

In August 1964, Stockdale's squadron played a role in the Gulf of Tonkin incident, which involved North Vietnamese attacks on U.S. naval vessels. The Johnson Administration invoked these occurrences to justify a massive American military response. Interestingly, Stockdale always maintained that during the Incident's key "engagement," he saw no enemy vessels. In his words, "I flew so low there was salt spray on the windshield, and I still didn't see a thing!" But the die was cast. The next morning, he was ordered to lead a raid on North Vietnamese oil refineries. America -- and Jim Stockdale -- were at war.

biography

Once I read Jim Stockdale's book "In Love and War", the story of his storied life, including the events of that fateful day, I couldn't help be inspired to write a screenplay faithful to reaccounts. It was only after I finished the screenplay last year that I found out there had been a made for TV drama made based on the same book back in 1986 starring James Woods. I feel the story desearves the big screen treatment. You can upload my screenplay here, enjoy.

Click here to read 'In Love And War-The Jim Stockdale Story'

Later,
Kenaz

Canadian Excellence:Jayne Eastwood

I've had the pleasure of being on a couple of sets to partake in the excellance that is origional Second City allumnus Jayne Eastwood. At the 1999 Gemini Awards, Eastwood received the Earle Grey Award for her body of work in theater, tv and film.

After a standing ovation, she thanked everyone she ever worked with and talked about how people recognize her on the street.

"They say 'You're that Canadian actress. I don't know your name but you're good.' Well, I'm very, very proud to be that Canadian actress, what's-her-name."

Good indeed, her credits read like a enclopedia of film lit. Since 1970 Mrs. Eastwood has garnered over 80 feature and television roles. Most notable, Gwen Twining (1978-80) on the widly acclaimed Canadian series "King of Kensington" and as a regular on the sketch comedy series "Bizarre"(1980).

Two add to her already impressive list of credits, Jayne Eastwood has made over 35 guest appearances on many graet television shows. Most notably, on Degrassi:The Next Gereration and Sue Thomas FBEye.

Recently, I had the oportunity to be on the set of This is This Is Wonderland to watch her work her magic. Unfortunately, she is so good, she got her scene done in a couple of takes and was off.

Other Memorable Rolls of Mrs. Eastwood:
Riding the Bus With My Sister(2005)Tv-Estella the sympathetic bus driver friend to Rosie O'Donnell's Beth.

Dawn of the Dead(2004)-Norma, the gun weilding zombie killer.

The Man Who Saved Christmas(2002)Tv-Mrs. Gilbert, mother to Jason Alexander's, A.C Gilbert. This wonderful holliday treat tells the story of the man who waged a personal war against the US government who tried to convert his Erector Set factory over to a municians factory during WWI, and won. The movie also stars Edward Asner as Mr.Gilbert. I loved being on this set when it was shot during August of 2002 down in Toronto's Distillery District.

Welcome to Mooseport(2004)-Lucy Decker, the boistrous, town gossip of the small town who makes it hell for the local inhabitants. Again, it was a pleasure to watch this star work while I was on this set in May 2003.

Her full filmography can be found at IMDB
and
Norther Film Stars

Later,
Kenaz

Karla Homolka Gains Freedom

A judge Wednesday lifted all restrictions against Karla Homolka who served only 12 years in prison for her role in the rape and murder of three teenagers, considered one Canada's most notorious crimes.

The ruling by Quebec Superior Justice James Brunton means Karla Homolka, who was convicted of manslaughter in 1993, does not have to report regularly to police, can go where she wants and see and talk to whom she pleases including her ex-husband and co-hort in crime, Paul Bernardo.

full story

I hope Justice Brunton comes to his senses and listens to the appeals of the families that this monster devestated and got away with. Homolka should be free to do what ever she pleases as long as it isn't anywhwere near St. Catherines, children, or her sick ex-husband. Is that too much to ask? I think not.

Later,
Kenaz