Amazing!!!! A HUGE thank you to the unknown person who put my sweatshirt on a hook in the back of the classroom in Montgomery County Community College's Parkhouse Hall -- and to all those who left it on the hook for more than a week. I'm so glad to have it back, and you are all wonderful!!
(One advantage of no longer having a direct boss is that I can use exclamation points wantonly. Don't try this at home, kids.)
THANK YOU!!
I've just got one gift yet to pick up myself: the most fun one. (For a kiddo!!!!)
But, yes, there are a few items I simply forgot to put on my list. Too bad for me! One involved a promise I made to a high school friend (Angel -- yes her real name, a pediatric dentist) who thinks I should start using a WaterPik. If I am blessed with such an apparatus one I'll endeavor to try to use it, I promise, but I simply have no place to put it right now, and I have to pare down my routine to even get out the door.
I love my SpinBrush & use it almost half the time I brush -- the rest of the time I don't want to feel lazy or, frankly, lose the skill set! In terms of other personal care items, the only one I can't justify buying for myself is the Crest Pro-Health Multi-Protection Night rinse (the clear one!) It really seems to help!!
Please take a moment, if you choose, to read Cardinal Chaput's recent pastoral letter, to which I've linked. The words that follow are mine, not the church establishment's, although I welcome both on- and offline comment on either the pastoral letter or my own comments below.
----------
This Sunday in Advent we as Christians are called upon to rejoice. Some years that is more of a struggle than others. Catholics and non-Catholics, Christians and non-Christians alike are invited -- by me -- to read for themselves a pastoral letter which was read aloud in Catholic churches all over the archdiocese today. The letter was released by Philadelphia's recently installed cardinal archbishop on the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception (December 8). In it, Cardinal Chaput sets a tone for the coming year in which, while supporting the dedication and fidelity of the priests in the archdiocese, does call for "careful scrutiny" in finances as well as in pastoral life.
I, for one, welcome all comment. I have certainly expressed in this blog my pain and disappointment over the erosion of trust and over the pain that has been caused to all concerned. Today I choose to not put blinders on, but to pray for the fidelity and the strength of all our clergy and to thank God for the priests and religious who have been there for me when times were tough. Now more than ever in a confused world we need not only strong hearts and willing souls to lead by setting a good example, but also critical but caring minds in all those who have the temerity to continue to practice their faith. We all need Wisdom. I hope the enormous good will to which Cardinal Chaput refers in his letter is a source of strength for those who will particularly endure the "burning out" of "complacency and pride" the bishop points to in the coming year.
A hard-working and incredibly memorable former colleague of mine, now a freelancer, has three children and a wife whose married career has been raising them and being a wife to Darrell. Now the wage earner in that family has been knocked out by Guillain-Barre syndrome. I was terribly concerned to hear he was in the ICU. We understand his condition has improved, but it's expected to be a long road back.
A trusted friend of his, Frank Zinck, is collecting both money (via PayPal) and gifts to get Darrell's family through the holidays with less fear and discomfort. He guarantees 100% of the funds and items collected will go directly to the family, and I am very satisfied that it will. If you can find it in your heart to help I would personally appreciate whatever large or small thing you can do. The link will also give you a bit of information on the syndrome (which looks like a very nasty piece of work indeed!). Much love to both Darrell and his family and to those who help them through this tough time.
The information information is reprinted from www.mc3.edu:
"Fall Performing Arts Showcase Wed, Dec 07, 2011 starting at 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM Thu, Dec 08, 2011 starting at 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Two Evenings (Plus an Extra Hour -ed.) of Music & Dance
Each evening features a different lineup of the best talent and work by students in the Music and Dance departments. Enjoy the performances by the College Choir, Dance Ensemble, Jazz Ensemble, Guitar Ensemble, Chamber Choir and others.
The public is invited to these free performances on Wednesday, Dec. 7, at 7 p.m. and Thursday, Dec. 8, at 7 p.m. at the Science Center Theater, Central Campus, Blue Bell."
---
In addition, the school is offering a lunchtime "sampler show" at 12:30 on Monday, Dec. 5. The matinee is expected to include both choral and instrumental works, as well as dance. All Performing Arts Showcases are offered at no cost to the public. Students from the Montgomery County Community College's associates-level degree program have gone on to study music at four-year institutions and garnered recording contracts. Many within the department aspire to be music educators and to work in the helping professions.
--------------
In other news, also from the school's web site:
MCCC Hosts Ceremony for GED Graduates
Montgomery County Community College held its Fall GED Graduation ceremony on Oct. 19 for 63 students who earned their General Education Diplomas at West Campus, 101 College Drive, Pottstown.
The College’s Dean of Workforce Development and Continuing Education Suzanne Holloman congratulated the students on their GED achievement and encouraged them to continue their educational endeavors.
Holloman said since the program started in 2006, more than 600 students graduated, and the students’ pass rate on the first attempt is more than 85 percent. The Montgomery County Workforce Investment Board funds the program, which is free to applicants and is held at the College’s West Campus.
The College’s Vice President for Student Affairs and keynote speaker, Dr. Steady Moono, told the graduates that hard work and discipline will pay off in the long run, as it did in his life.
“Remember these rules of the road,” he said. “Always work hard, guard your integrity, be humble, take advantage of opportunities and stay focused on your goals.”
The GED graduate speaker Monica Olszyk, Phoenixville, spoke about her next goal of becoming a medical secretary now that she has her GED.
“My return to school at age 50 was precipitated by unemployment after working for 34 years,” she said. “I want to thank the Workforce Investment Board for offering the program at no cost. I would not have received my GED otherwise.”
WIB Chairman Harvey Portner, who has attended every GED ceremony since the program started, told the graduates, “Make sure you continue. Without continuing your education, you can’t go forward.”
GED Program Coordinator and Instructor Raymond Ricketts emphasized Portner’s advice.
“There are no more barriers for you,” he said. “Go to college. Don’t sit on your diploma.”
Several of the graduates are already working on the next step in their educational journeys. Kimberly Weigner, Norristown, recently enrolled at the College to earn her degree in restaurant management. Kheira Bouzid, Pottstown, is ready to start her first semester and hopes to enter the nursing program.
from Montgomery County Community College's Drama Club
(via facebook)
Montgomery County Community College Theater Arts Program and Drama Club present
Henrik Ibsen's A Doll's House
A scandal puts a marriage to the test -- and a wife and mother must make a decision to see her life as it truly is in this stage classic.
Thursday, Friday & Saturday
November 10th, 11th, 12th at 8:00 PM
Sunday Matinée
November 13th at 2:00 PM
$10 general admission, $5 students & seniors
PURCHASE TICKETS ONLINE or call (215) 641-6518
In the name of brevity, I'm combining two of the posts I traditionally put up this time of year.
In date order:
First, the general election is this week, Tuesday, November 8. Polls in my home county, Montgomery County, Pennsylvania, are open from seven a.m. to eight p.m. In a monumental oopsie (I assume) the county Republican committee for my poll sent out a "green ballot" or slate card from this past May's primary election in the U.S. Mail this week to voters throughout West Norriton Township. While the date is wrong and the "ballot" does not serve to offer, of course, any updated endorsements, it does serve as a reminder of what offices are on the ballot this time. The ballot is heavy with judgeships and row officer positions. There is a question of state and county judge retention, too. The meat-and-potatoes positions locally are seats on the school board and and township commissioners slots. A heated county commissioner's race has also been hot in the media, and its results will greatly affect the governance of this county.
As always, vote early, vote once and vote well.
If you don't feel educated about this, very competitive set of races now's the time to bone up on media coverage or start asking those you respect their opinions. Maybe both. Let's not neglect our precious franchise.
-----
Second, and more personal is the issue of Christmas. I don't need anything other than a few household staples like oatmeal, rice and water. I don't expect to be extravagant in gift-giving, and I don't think gifts need to be extravagant. This year in particular, I am thankful for my remarkable family, my sweetheart and the friends that have stuck by me, cheered me and pushed me forward. All I want is more time with them -- and maybe somebody to help me haul out my winter clothes. Brrrrrr.
First, I miss Agnes. There is nothing else I can say about the loss of yet another family friend right now, and there's nothing else that needs to be said publicly. I miss her, and I always will.
------
Second, it is rare that my heart is so artfully assaulted as it was tonight at Montgomery County Community College. As part of the school's Africa: The Call and Response series, formidably startling young percussionist, vocalist, writer and dancer Dobet Gnahoré performed in her Philadelphia-area debut. Personal, political & activist, her music features harmonies and melodic aspects reminiscent of artists made popular in America like Ladysmith Black Mambazo -- but her storyline of both love and great suffering brings to audiences the violence of existence and the beauty of simply drawing breath and movement.
Dobet's art is deeply unsettling in its message and its force. It is not for everyone -- but perhaps it should be seen by those who find it most uncomfortable. Undeniably musically accessible, undeniably entertainment, it is also a challenge and a journey. These peeks, courtesy of YouTube, do not begin to show the anger, catharsis or pathos in her work, but they do show a glimpse of the beauty and joy she also, undeniably, exudes.
The Africa: Call and Response series began in October with Baaba Maal's "Tales From the Sahel." It continues next semester with a February 4 performance by Randy Weston Quintet and concludes with Angelique Kidjo's March 23 concert at the school. The project has been funded by the Pew Center for Arts and Heritage through the Philadelphia Music Project. More information on the project, the performances and other public offerings at the Montgomery County Community College are available at the school's department of cultural affairs at (215) 641-6439.
Paul Boyd, a local historian, seemed to be everywhere in my significant other's town of Atlantic Highlands. He volunteered, it seems, everywhere. Sometimes it felt like you couldn't go out the door without catching sight of him! I was saddened to hear of his death. There was, apparently, a tree planted in his memory today in that town, and I hope it is a good and strong one that lasts and grows deep in the soil of that lovely place. From what I knew of Paul he was not only commited to his town, but also friendly, smart and eloquently loquatious. I was glad to have met him.
The Rev. Jim Adams' passing does not have a practical impact of my day-to-day life, but I will miss him so much more, I know. I was deeply unhappy that I was unable to drive two hours to pay respects today. He and his define for me what "a family friend" ought to be. His twin sister "Momma J" was welcoming not only to me, but also it seemed to every child lucky enough to be befriended by her daughter Donna (Schulz) Garcia and Donna's sibs Rachael and Adam. Her favorite knickname, it seems, when they were growing up was Mom-bo, and not just for own little ones. "Uncle Jim" was -- like much of the family -- witty, generous and great fun. He had an elegant accent that bespoke his fine education, while his lively, kind and informed words spoke intelligence. I never, ever saw him talk down to a single soul: Indeed, he respected children deeply and both listened and spoke with them with an ease I'd rarely seen. He and his wife, "Aunt Ruff" whom I now know as Ruth Adam made their home welcoming, warm and lovely -- and opened their doors with ease. Uncle Jim never made a big deal about being a minister, but the esteem and love he attracted from his family, from me and so many others are no accident. He did the concept and practice of his faith proud: He was a good man. I miss you, Uncle Jim; and, I pray I'll always remember you.
Many thanks to Rowie at Verizon who yesterday handled a telephone help desk call from me to Verizon fairly expeditiously (a half an hour) and very politely. She did get the Internet going as quickly as it had ever been to our location. As I was leaving the house, however, the Internet indicator light started blinking in an unfortunate way: I'm hoping I don't have to make another help desk call when I get back home.
It was also very reasonable of Verizon to offer to credit my account the equivalent of half a month for the time I was without Internet service and for the difficulties. Crossing my fingers that the service only gets better from here! Many thanks again to a tech who had the presence of mind to be both kind and quick in dealing with my complaint. I appreciate it, Rowie.
Hey there. Quick update.
Dean, the Verizon tech, got here around lunchtime and spent about a half hour on the issue. He checked things outside, said there was a "bad phone." He checked things inside and quickly identified which extension was causing the problem.
He was the one who made it to the basement phone, and he said it was off the hook. Shocking.
Now we know to actually check all the extension phones first. I can't say when I was even able to make it over to that corner of the basement, so I cannot comment on how it might have gotten off the hook.
Things are rarely boring around here!
Thanks, Dean, and thank you, Verizon, for dispatching a tech so quickly after Mom made a call about the trouble.
Ok, so the Verizon tech did show up last Monday, did spend two hours here and did leave the household with working Internet service (if not Internet service that's fast enough to do my schoolwork, which requires watching music videos and listening to music clips on the Web). It has stayed up since.
One tiny issue, though. The very next day, the dial tone service, local calling and voicemail -- also provided by Verizon -- experienced a complete service interruption, and Mom (the account holder) refused to call to report it. She had to go to Beth's, and said she didn't care if it was out, although I expect from her grumpiness on the issue that she cared very much and was rather upset by the whole thing.
Long story slightly shorter: She said Sunday night when we were both back home again that she planned to call Monday (today, the 20th). This morning she asked me to sit and talk to her about it. It was not the most pleasant or the easiest conversation I've ever had, but it was not the worst. I sat with her while she dialed. She asked if I could be here Tuesday the 21st to meet the Verizon tech. I said I could.
Today I'll wait again, and we'll see what they can do.
Oh, and they're still trying to sell her on Fios. Brilliant.
Told to wait by the mobile phone and computer all day Wednesday. Was ready to deal with problem all day and got no call.
Upon calling back the next day (today) during daytime hours, a day when I had schoolwork, major housework and doctor's appointment that included two-hour round trip drive, was told I could not even transfer to a number where anyone could help me; would & could not get a refund until problem was fixed; that there was no estimated date for restoration of high-speed Internet service, and that no one could or would schedule a callback. My choices were to escalate to a supervisor or talk to tech support, with whom I've spoken repeatedly, to no satisfaction -- with time I simply did not have. All this after giving them more than eight hours of my time the day before.
Whatever happened to customer service? I know people who'd want to invoice that company if it stole that much of their time. Isn't Verizon regulated at some level as a public utility? All this comes after Verizon hooked me up and used me as the thin edge if the wedge to market their higher end services in what used to be a Comcast-only condo community. Their extraordinarily aggressive marketing techniques -- including harassing an 80+-year-old woman after both she and I both asked them politely, then told them sternly, not to knock on the door -- were just beyond the pale.
I used to be excited about Verizon, now I am angry, very tired and, frankly, disgusted by the whole situation.
What's to be done? Does one have to be clever enough to write something like "United Breaks Guitars" to get this company to behave responsibly?
Late-night hassle with telecom customer service. Who's the biggest jerk? Here's hoping it's not me. The complete and unedited text-based "chat" help-desk session of over and hour and half follows a few paragraphs down. Sorry in advance that the tone is a bit negative here. That's something I've really gotta work on, I know. Constructive comments highly welcomed.
A Question For Readers Here: When will be get good, reliable, safe and reasonably priced ISP/phone companies in the Northwestern suburbs of Philadelphia?? Are there some that most consumers just don't know about? We're talking about something those on fixed incomes can afford, and I'll be shocked if there are any that don't require a package deal.
Bigger Questions: What kind of conditions does this help-desk guy work under? Where is he? Is Verizon or whoever his direct employer is providing him with a decent job? Is he *doing* a decent job? Why can Verizon get away with gouging and harassing their low-end customers? How many other people are experiencing the same or very similar issues here at a time when internet connectivity seems close to necessary to successfully go to school many places or work in many jobs, let alone to "just" stay in touch with family and friends? Why does it take literally hours of employee and customer time to even pretend to get things solved these days?
OK, now I'm laying my one a.m. utter ridiculousness, awkwardness and frustration bare in the hope that it might not just solve problems for me or provide amusement. This is one of countless attempts to get quick, efficient customer service and good, stable, secure internet from this company -- the first time I've tried it by typing rather than talking. I was exhausted before I began the encounter, and am praying I can wind down quickly to get some good sleep before my doctor's appointment Monday mid-morning. FYI: The URL where this exchange took place is noted on the address bar as being https://collaborateext.verizon.com/ I will do my level best to report back here on the status of the trouble call, and to give Verizon accolades if they resolve the issue in any lasting and helpful way. No doubt some of the problem *is* due to my ignorance and stupidity (both technical and interpersonal), as referenced below:
Chat Subject: Unknown
Your Question: Still can't browse Web or access Web-based email. Hardware you sent didn't solve problem, nor, as yet, has telephone customer support. Also, I do not know the number for the DSL (secondary) line you hooked up; forced to give primary telephone number for house number. Very dissatisfied. Please assist
A Verizon Service Representative will be with you shortly. Thank you. (00:49:35)
Agent Gurmeet has joined. (00:50:54)
Gurmeet : Chat ID for this session is 06061162667. (00:50:54)
Gurmeet(00:51:09): Thank you for contacting Verizon DSL Technical Support. My name is Gurmeet and I am the technical support analyst assigned to help you. Please stay online for a few moments while I review the information generated by your trouble ticket.
Gurmeet(00:51:39): Thank you so much for staying online. I appreciate your patience.
Gurmeet(00:51:44): For verification, please provide the following information before we start:
- Your first and last name and relationship with the account holder.
-The Operating System (Window XP, Windows Vista, Windows 2000 or Macintosh) that you are using.
Barbra Bateman(00:54:09): My name is Barbra Bateman, and I opened the DSL account. Would you like the account number? Right now, I am attempting to run Windows XP. What other information can I give you to try to help you get this up, running and secure for me? If there is any, please let me know. In the meantime, I'll try to be patient.
Gurmeet(00:54:39): Thank you for the information, Mr. Bateman.
Gurmeet(00:55:05): While I am checking your account details, may I have your preferred email address? Could you also confirm if your DSL number accepts incoming calls from 800 or toll free numbers?
Barbra Bateman(00:55:08): You do not need to use an honorific.
Barbra Bateman(00:55:16): Excuse me?
Gurmeet(00:55:36): Before I proceed for the troubleshooting steps may I ask you few questions, which will help us to resolve the issue?
Barbra Bateman(00:56:57): Of course you may, but I need to understand why you are asking them. I have not even been provided with the number here. This is a residence. There is no question but that toll-free call acceptance is not authorized on this account.
Gurmeet(00:57:27): It is okay.
Gurmeet(00:57:27): Since when are you facing this issue?
Gurmeet(00:59:19): Please respond on this chat window otherwise this chat window would get inactive.
Barbra Bateman(00:59:36): No, not having the telephone/DSL number for which I am paying $250-plus a year is emphatically not okay, but I have not yet found the person who is alble to resolve this issue for me. I have had issues with connectivity, also, for some time, likely at least a year and a half.
Barbra Bateman(00:59:50): Can you assist?
Gurmeet(01:00:11): Yes, I am here to assist you.
Gurmeet(01:00:51): Please confirm Model number of the Modem you are using to connect to the Internet. Is it Westell 6100, 2200, 6110, Versalink 327, or Actiontec? (Model # is located at the bottom of the Modem)
Barbra Bateman(01:01:48): Just a moment, please.
Barbra Bateman(01:03:15): It is a Westell, but I cannot tell if it is a 6100, 2200 or a 6110.
Barbra Bateman(01:03:28): Oh -- it's a 7500.
Gurmeet(01:03:39): Thank you.
Barbra Bateman(01:04:03): Welcome. Thank you.
Gurmeet(01:04:44): I am running a line test to check your internet connection status.
Gurmeet(01:04:54): So please be online.
Gurmeet(01:05:19): May I know if you are getting any error message while sending/receiving emails?
Barbra Bateman(01:06:39): I have not been able to send or receive emails. My gmail says "working."
Gurmeet(01:06:54): Okay.
Gurmeet(01:07:31): Yes, I have checked you account status through line test, there is problem with your internet.
Gurmeet(01:07:47): I apologize for the inconvenience caused to you.
Gurmeet(01:08:09): So I would request you to contact our Voice Technical support at 1-800-VERIZON or 1-800-837-4966 and Voice Prompt - "DSL Technical Support. They are available 24x7 (Monday through Sunday).
Gurmeet(01:09:23): They will perform some more advance troubleshooting steps to resolve your issue.
Barbra Bateman(01:09:38): Or rather "still working." That is not an answer that works for me. I have not gotten any satisfaction or lasting help over the telephone, and I feel I'm being taken advantage of as a customer.
Gurmeet(01:10:28): Yes, I can understand but I hope you understand my limitations in this regard.
Barbra Bateman(01:11:04): I understand you are at a remote location and are limited in what you can accomplish, but there must be a way to solve this without the customer having to spend hours upon hours to resolve the promblem. It feels quite punitive, almost as if you were demarketing the very account that got you into this community.
Gurmeet(01:11:15): I have done everything to resolve your issue from my side but after running line test it is showing the problem is still there.
Barbra Bateman(01:11:15): *problem
Gurmeet(01:11:51): I can very well understand your situation and apologize on the behalf of entire Verizon team for the trouble which you have been faced due this issue.
Gurmeet(01:12:39): I mean there is some issue with your internet connection. That is why you are not able to use this facility properly.
Gurmeet(01:13:37): Please do not worry, they will definitely take care of your issue and make sure to fix it for you.
Gurmeet(01:14:08): They will perform some advance troubleshooting to resolve your issue.
Barbra Bateman(01:14:11): I can attest to the fact that there is a problem, and I well believe it is on this side (although there may be issues all over the place, who knows). I need to have a service call on this, and must be at the doctors' and at school throughout this week. I cannot afford to pay for a service I cannot use, and I need assistance in resolving the issue. There must be some way to get this solved without me hanging on the line for hours. It is exhausting, rather than assiting, me.
Gurmeet(01:14:52): Okay.
Gurmeet(01:15:18): If you allow me, then I can arrange a call back for you for tomorrow.
Barbra Bateman(01:15:59): I cannot help but worry: I am paying for something I am not receiving. And I am being turned in circles when I try to get the issue resolved. Thank you for the apologetic words, but I do not need reassurance: I need someone to cur the red tape & take care of this without further exhausting or frustrating me -- and without using my own resources to get the problem solved.
Gurmeet(01:16:58): I totally agree with you. As a consumer myself I would be just as frustrated if placed in this position.
Gurmeet(01:17:17): If you allow me, then I can arrange a call back for you for tomorrow.
Barbra Bateman(01:17:28): I will be at the doctor's or at class, but it is possible I may be reached in between at my AT&T mobile number. The problem is, I do not answer that phone unless I recognize the number. I cannot. Is there someplace I can go in person nearby to arrance a service call?
Gurmeet(01:18:08): No, there is no other way.
Barbra Bateman(01:18:11): Thank you for your acknowlegement of the situation Verizon has created here. I am sorry if my ignorance or stupidity has added to it in any way. Gurmeet(01:18:31): In that case, you have to call our voice technical support.
Gurmeet(01:19:12): I really apologies for the inconvience caused to you.
Barbra Bateman(01:19:15): I will accept a call from, what?, a toll-free number tomorrow unless I am in the doctor's office (not allowed) or in a place in school in which phones are blocked. At what time do you expect someone would call me?
Gurmeet(01:19:41): You can give me the call back time.
Barbra Bateman(01:19:56): Apologies, however sincere, do not remedy the situation, but thank you. I really miss having a reliable ISP.
Gurmeet(01:20:17): Your welcome.
Barbra Bateman(01:20:27): Must I be by the computer? Really, this is kind of ridiculous, you must admit.
Gurmeet(01:21:33): Please give me the call back time so that I can arrange a call back for you.
Barbra Bateman(01:23:45): Is it possible to effectively troubleshoot it or arrange a service call when I am not at the desk where the computer is? That is a crucial piece of information for me to have in order to schedule a block of time to devote to this nettlesome and annoying problem. I apologize again for my harsh tone, but you really have to admit this is just beyond the pale.
Gurmeet(01:24:43): They will help you to resolve your issue.
Barbra Bateman(01:25:46): Must I be at the computer? I just do not have the pateience or time (or voice and hand strength) to continue to make these calls. I am sorry to be skeptical. I think I need a service call.
Barbra Bateman(01:26:19): Please answer the question to the best of your ability. Thanks.
Barbra Bateman(01:26:52): *patience
Gurmeet(01:28:53): I will arrange a call back and they will contact with you and after that they will do some more advace troubleshooting, if they could not resolve you issue then they will arrange a techincian to fix your issue.
Barbra Bateman(01:29:57): Will they be able to do their troubleshooting without me by the computer? Do I have to leave the computer on for the day?
Barbra Bateman(01:30:06): Is that even a good thing to do?
Gurmeet(01:30:41): No, you will have to be there with your computer.
Gurmeet(01:33:17): Please respond on this chat window otherwise the chat window would get inactive.
Barbra Bateman(01:33:35): Then it will have to be on Wednesday during the day. How long should I block out for it? How many calls more do you think it will take before they send a tech to physically tackle the job?
Gurmeet(01:34:51): If you want to arrange a direct technician at your to fix the issue. Then I would request you to contact our Voice Technical support at 1-800-VERIZON or 1-800-837-4966 and Voice Prompt - "DSL Technical Support. They are available 24x7 (Monday through Sunday).
Barbra Bateman(01:35:30): You offered to schedule a callback. I am requesting that you follow through on that.
Gurmeet(01:36:17): Okay.
Gurmeet(01:36:40): You will get a call on Wednesday during the day.
Barbra Bateman(01:36:41): I have indicated to you that I have tried repeatedly to get my problem addressed that way. Please do what you said you would. Thanks.
Gurmeet(01:36:56): Okay.
Gurmeet(01:37:17): Please do no worry.
Gurmeet(01:37:32): Is there anything else I may assist you today?
Barbra Bateman(01:37:42): At what number? I am yelled out if I take calls, especially long ones on the number you have. Shall I give you my mobile phone number??
Gurmeet(01:38:03): Yes, please.
Barbra Bateman(01:38:20): Yes, please ensure that I do not receive tech calls on the house line. I cannot take much more stress from this issue.
Gurmeet(01:38:36): Okay.
Barbra Bateman(01:39:26): My mobile telephone number is 610 209-2840. I will look for a call on Wednesday. If it can be fairly early in the day East Coast time in the United States, that would be very helpful. How much time should I set aside to assist in the troubleshooting?
Gurmeet(01:39:57): Okay.
Gurmeet(01:40:03): Thank you.
Gurmeet(01:40:08): Is there anything else I may assist you today?
Barbra Bateman(01:41:41): Thank you, but please answer that question. Also, is it possible to have someone call me back in the a.m.? If you can accurately answer both those questions, I will be appreciative. If this problem can be resolved, I will be both flabbergasted and extremely grateful. Please finish assisting me with this, and thank you for your time.
Barbra Bateman(01:42:13): Wednesday a.m., that is.
Gurmeet(01:42:18): Your welcome.
Gurmeet(01:42:29): Okay.
Barbra Bateman(01:42:50): Please finish with this okay. Also, will I get a record of this help-desk chat?
Gurmeet(01:43:06): Okay
Gurmeet(01:43:11): Have a nice day!
Gurmeet(01:43:12): Bye!
Gurmeet(01:43:32): You can finish this chat from your side. Your session is now closed.
Thank you, have a nice day
As the sun sets and I head back to the grind, I just wanted to offer a thankful shoutout to all of you who make my life so much brighter. Besos, particularmente, a Mama B y Pete.
Cheeky video commentary rolls behind one of snarkmeister Elvis Costello's poppiest harangues. Many thanks to K. Merrick for reminding me of the good old days when MTV was like radio only rounder -- and we all walked uphill to school and from it. Good times.
It's going to be close to a homemade Christmas here for me, but I was surprised and, yes, pleased to get two lists and some good hints already. Please, people, keep the good ideas coming. I'm a little embarrassed to put this up publicly, but but it's great to know I've got significant annual readership;) Until we have a Bateman intranet, I'll just be bold enough ask my colleagues and male friends not to get me anything inappropriate -- or anything large -- and please forgive the oversharing. THINGS I NEED VERY MUCH
toothpaste -- (crest & colgate are both good: the one Jackie gave me last year is wonderful); shampoo -- any kind of decent to very good moisturizing or clarifying ones; citrashine's good, too; crabtree & evelyn soap -- there's a store at the court + good hallmark stores often carry it; rose water; any decent lavender products; tom's of maine deoderant
aspercreme
heartguard for grace goo: prescription's on file with Steinbach Vet in Blue Bell
as many canned green veggies and legumes as you care to give!; dried fruit of all types, fresh fruit, fresh (or even frozen) berries, too; room-temp containers of rice, almond and soy milk -- vitamin & calcium enriched if they have it; (I don't know if there's such a thing as UHT Lactaid milk, but that would be good, too.)
b&n gift cards; wawa ones are great, too
---THINGS I DON'T NEED QUITE AS MUCH
a winter skirt -- conservative colors: appropriate for work, school, church & going out; comfortable, neat, sturdy walking shorts -- appropriate for school; turtle necks of any description (good ones can be found at landsend.com, but stay away from bright colors, please); cotton skivvies in beige; cotton and flannel nightgowns
---SMALL LUXURIES THAT WOULD BE VERY HELPFUL
a coupon wallet
music: printed scores + music on cd or mp3 -- see amazon for ideas, or just get something you like & think I might, too
duplexer for hp deskjet 6988 printer
****sperry topsiders -- plain, no light colors -- just brown is best, size 7 (style #9294190 -- $70 -- available online: you might be able to find them in a store around here, too.)****
beads: glass, wooden, crystal, clay or china -- maybe semiprecious if you get a wonderful deal on 'em (say, under $5 or $10 for a strand); sterling lobster clasps (should be no more than $6 or $7)
THREE THINGS THAT DON'T COST A CENT
Coke(tm) rewards codes, from soda pop bottle tops and cartons; Boxtops for Education coupons, unless you're already giving them to a school you love; your continued friendship, love, loyalty, devotion and understanding
---
I have less than no idea what Mom wants, but I know she wouldn't turn down a ginormo container of Cremora(R) or six!
But Ann Richards was, despite the potential to misinterpret Lyle Lovett's dedication. I just heard this tune on XPN and had to share it.
Oh, and for what it's worth I understand I was made there but imported to the North.
I would like to ask for your vote – well, if you go to school with me I do.
Montgomery County Community College student government elections begin today (Thursday) and end tomorrow (Friday). I have offered myself as a candidate for vice president of the Student Government Association. To vote, go online at the above url, and log in with your student ID. In your email you'll find simple instructions for online voting.
I am proud to say I am, without a doubt, the oldest of the four very impressive executive board candidates who joined in a candidates' forum earlier today. I think my age and maturity, my background in communications (as a former print and electronic reporter, an editor and editorialist) and my focus on government and elections make me uniquely qualified to listen to and act on the concerns of all my fellow students.
My competitor and I agree on many things, but most of all this: We each have the school's best interests at heart, and each of us intend to be active in student government whether we're elected as executive officers or not. For those who weren't able to hear the discussion at school today, here is a quick look at the reasons for running I filed with the school in my election packet.
Please feel free to contact me via email at barbra.bateman (at) comcast.net if you have any questions. Thanks for taking the time to have a read, and thanks for your consideration.
As I said earlier today, I want to help continue to build on successes: to help make the college an even better place to learn, and an even better place to be. If you elect me I promise I will work as hard as I can to look after your interests and the interests of our school.
I am running to give back to a school that has given so much opportunity to me, to other students and to the community and region. I want to help it fulfill its enormous promise – and to strengthen itself as a welcoming, safe, supportive and well-structured place for all who come here to learn.
We should build on successes: continued polling of students to determine their priorities and presentation of “Top Ten” lists to the administration. I think we should continue to use both electronic and traditional communication to try to reach the student body. In addition, we should offer at least one or two well-advertised open meetings each semester, so students can be even better informed about projects on campus and have a chance to bring concerns and success stories to the student government, staff and administration.
Members of student government must continue to be active and to engage both the student body and the administration to see student concerns – and the administration’s priorities – addressed. We must also continue to facilitate increased cooperation among clubs and other student organizations to make sure the money we all pay in student activity fees and the time students devote to their pursuits benefits the college and community at large.
Hi there, y'all. I found myself a little overwhelmed -- in a good way -- when I clicked through on the link in the following short email the Port Authority sent to its World Trade Center update mailing list:
"Acre-sized signature reflecting pools for 9/11 Memorial fully framed in steel. To view images, visit www.wtcprogress.com."
As always, feel free to share your thoughts, but if you click through I hope you enjoy. I cried a little, and I'm very glad I clicked on it. Thanks, Port Authority folks.
Here's a great Supremes clip, courtesy of Pags. I find I want to learn more and more about the movement that was midcentury Motown. We grew up with these sounds, and I'm fascinated by both the hit machine that was Hitsville and the "refinement" of soul. Great video, love the tune.
Christmas ain't about the presents, but here goes. I think I finally have my shopping LIST done, anyway, and I'll be ready for Christmas. Here are a few ideas for Mom and for me:
for Mom
Oh, and I'm sure she'd crown anybody who bought her laundry soap or coffee, but she sure does go through a lot of both!
for me
And, yes, this simple shiny woman likes simple shiny things, too -- but only from the family and the sweetie. If there's anything else I need, I'm sure Amazon has it!
With December comes the official season of giving. Please consider starting it off by giving a hand to those who need your help the most.
One easy way to do that is to support WMMR's Camp Out For Hunger. Despite the name, I gather these folks are actually pretty serious about working to end hunger (couldn't resist!) -- and you can help. You can bring nonperishable food items to the Metroplex Shopping Center on Chemical Road in Plymouth Meeeting, buy a prepackaged bag of food from the Giant in that shopping center to donate -- or just point and click to donate on the 'MMR web site. The camp out goes on 'til mid-morning Friday for those who like to do their donating in person.
Whatever you decide to do, please enjoy playing Santa in your own community, and enjoy the impending holidays.
Just in from Cousin Jeff. Interesting concept, creepy sounds.
Word from Bottlebee, and a gift, too!
Many thanks for the cooking spice he sent along from one of his favorite Manhattan shops!! Apparently, that busy man has been thinking about recipes for the blog and dreaming up a few new ideas. I told him I may try to help him along if he can jot down an idea or two.
In the meantime, here's a non-turkey gift for you on Thanksgiving Day, just in case you missed it the first time.
x-x-x
OSSO BUCCO
This stew of marrowbones is a family favorite, made for guests or just us two. It serves 3-4, or 2 with plenty left over. Find yourself a good butcher and take it slowly, and it may well become one of your favorites, too.
Ingredients:
4 2-inch thick cuts of veal shank
Balsamic vinegar
Flour, salt, pepper
1 tablespoon butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
1 rib of celery, chopped
1 carrot, chopped
1 parsnip, chopped
1 turnip, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup low-salt chicken broth
1 cup white wine
1 bay leaf
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, or 1 teaspoon dried
I bought the meat at the Pennington Market for $9.99/lb. Many recipes call for using tomatoes, but my wife prefers not to -- she dislikes the way the tomato flavor dominates. Instead, we add winter vegetables (parsnip and turnip, both $1.99/lb), and sometimes mushrooms. She also insists, as she always does with any meat, that the veal be marinated in balsamic vinegar, even if only for a few minutes.
Sometimes I use a cast-iron Dutch oven for this recipe, as it can be used on the stove top for browning and in the oven for baking. If I’m making too much to fit in my Dutch oven, I’ll do the browning in a cast-iron skillet and the baking in a ceramic dish with a lid. It is important that the shanks fit in the vessel in one layer.
Preheat the oven to 300 degrees Fahrenheit. Tie the shank pieces with butcher’s string to keep the meat on the bone. Marinate the meat in balsamic vinegar, and sprinkle it with salt, pepper, and flour. Brown the shanks in batches in the butter & olive oil over medium-high heat; this should take about 10 minutes. Remove the meat to a plate. Cook the vegetables in the fat until the onions start to turn color. Add the garlic to the vegetables. Pour in the can of chicken broth and the wine. Add the bay leaf and thyme. Bring the mixture to a boil, then turn off the heat. (Transfer the mixture to the oven-proof vessel, if what you’re using on the stove top is not oven-proof.) Arrange the veal shanks in one layer on top of the vegetables. The liquid should cover the bottom 1/3 to 1/2 of the shanks. Bake in the oven, covered, for 1-1/2 to 2 hours. Done properly, the meat will be very tender, falling off the bone. Remove the bay leaf and carefully cut off the twine with scissors; try to keep the shanks intact. We like to serve it over couscous, with a gremolata topping.
Gremolata Topping: 3 tablespoons parsley, minced 1 clove garlic, minced 1 teaspoon lemon zest 2 tablespoons pine nuts, toasted
Mix ingredients in a serving bowl and place it on the dinner table to spoon on top of the osso buco.
This recipe can be scaled up to serve larger groups, as long as you have enough covered baking dishes. Make one veal shank piece for every diner, plus a few spares: You don’t want to run short. It yields delicious leftovers, too.
It may be rock and roll heresy to say so, but Mick Jagger doesn't have much on Marc Bolan in this 1972 performance of Jeepster. Thanks, Pags!
This break brought to you by our sponsors, intermediate algebra and H1N1. If you're the praying sort, please say a short one for Mom, who definitely has H1N1 influenza. And I wouldn't mind if you crossed your fingers that I got through this academic year unscathed and healthy, too.
I'll be back at ya with 'tude and tunes when things ease up a bit -- or if somebody posts a great video online I can't help but share.
It's election time -- Election Day, to be exact. We're been in the seasion for a while, but this is when we need you to turn out and vote.
I ask for your support for Pennsylvania's entire GOP judicial slate -- candidates remarkable for both their excellence and their diversity -- and I ask you to turn out in support of terrific Republican candidates for local office if you happen to live in my tiny burg of West Norriton. We've got a tremendously hard-working team here.
In response to recent ads I've seen calling for "balance," I'd ask that you consider the way our federal government is structured with three separate branches. While I appreciate the right of each party to make the case for its candidate, nowhere is it written that the bench must swing politically with each election. In many cases, such as this, it can be beneficial to have that balance be ensured by retaining existing judges and considering other candidates according to one's voting criteria. As a Republican I am happy to support a Republican slate, but I would be impressed with our ticket even if I were not.
Whatever your political stripe, I ask you to read up (cramming may be necessary), ask questions and -- as always -- vote once and vote well.
Please remember our "magnificant seven" -- Wendy Demchick Alloy, Carolyn Tornetta Carluccio, Patricia Coonahan, Joanna Cruz, Garrett Page, Gary Silow and Kelly Wall. Please be sure, too, to vote for Joan Orie Melvin for Pennsylvania's Supreme Court.
And, of course, please speak up if you have any questions, or know of anyone who would like to vote and might not be able to make it to the polls.
Thanks. Back to baseball, y'all.
Seems the perfect song for the night. Let's get what we need, y'all.
How about we keep it lowkey tonight, Elvis -- and PUMP IT PAST BELIEF for Game 1? Ride it all the way to Election Day. Thanks for tapping this, Tara Baney!
Two growing thoughts swim in my gourd, unbidden.
One: I am oddly smitten with the urge for healthier food. Real cravings. Grains, beans, vegetable curries. I am hit also with the occasional revulsion for meats. For me, it's odd, odd, odd. Something my doctor would love, too, given my zaftig form and dairy obsession. (Mmmmmmmm ... my illicit love of cheese remains unhealthily strong.)
Two: I have been tempted to shift my blogging to something a bit more culture, less political vulture. Since I've been on near hiatus I've slapped up only occasional links to music and quick links to news pieces. I don't like neglecting the blog, but I must say I like forcing myself to post music and food much more than I want to forcefeed rants down readers' throats. Thus, I'm taken with healthful food and sweet, sweet music. Both deserve more time and space: both will get it from me.
I suspect I will either crosspost between here and a new, more focused, blog once my current writing course is done -- or abandon this addy altogether for new digs. If Bottlebee is willing, I may pull up stakes and move across town (say, to WordPress or TypePad). If you'd like to follow, just give me a shout.
Russia marks the fifth anniversary of the Beslan siege in which more than 330 people died after a school was seized by Chechen rebels.
The rebels, who held more than 1,000 people hostage, demanded the withdrawal of Russian troops from Chechnya. The siege ended three days later when security forces stormed the building. Those killed in the ensuing battle included 186 children.
Five years on, the people of Beslan are still haunted by what happened there.
Please click through to read the entire Associated Press story.
TBILISI, Georgia – Georgia marked one year since its war with Russia on Friday with quiet moments and somber ceremonies — a nationwide minute of silence, a human chain in a war-battered town, a soldier's small son gazing at his father's tombstone.
The brief war killed at least 390 people and left a legacy of animosity between leaders and fears among civilians that more fighting may erupt. About 26,000 people displaced by the conflict still live in temporary housing in Georgia, many on less than $3 a day, according to aid group World Vision.
Truth be told, I reached saturation on the constant pounding refrain of Michael Jackson mania in the media pretty quickly. But believe the hype about Ne-Yo and Jamie Foxx' BET Awards performance: It was pretty darned good. Thanks, Mary Huhn.
Credit goes to Bill Shaw for bringing my attention to this one. I didn't know Janis Joplin had appeared on Tom Jones' 1969 telecast "This Is Tom Jones." Without further ado ...
Set the wayback machine for a Saturday afternoon in the early 1970s. The cartoons have just ended and here comes "SOOOOOOOUL TRAIN!"
Thanks, Paul Cantin, for a trip back to when lip-synching was so new it was barely even faked.
It was a good day to hear this tune: Makes me feed so bad I feel better. And I'd never noticed, but in the opening seconds of the clip doesn't Winwood bear a passing resemblance to John Lennon? (But I guess more than a few people did back then.) Thanks, Paul Cantin.
Thanks to the (Bridgewater, N.J.) Courier News' Ed Pagliarini for this:
The Mummies - High-Heeled Sneakers
As a bit of an offering while I knock out a couple of English courses, please accept these periodic links to music videos. A couple of my friends have a way of posting the best ones to facebook, so I'll do them the tribute (and you the favor) of publishing them here. Sadly, blogger won't let me embed YouTube videos anymore, but do enjoy the link!
Police - Message in A Bottle - Tokyo 2008Today marks two milestones at the World Trade Center in Manhattan: both the issuance of its first quarterly report on post-9/11 progress at the site and the removal of of the last piece of the large ramp leading down into "the pit."
The ramp was used in rescue and recovery efforts -- and it allowed survivors of those who died in the attack to travel down to ground for memorial services.
It's an end and a beginning. If you're in Lower Manhattan today, maybe go mark it by taking a peek into the construction site around 11:30.
... and Still Silence.
Until I know how intense my Spring semester will be, please don't expect regular postings. School comes first: Period. I've crashed and burned big-time over break, and may manage to squeak out an open-minded post or two to greet a new administration taking over in terrible circumstances. Try not to be too appalled if I do -- and try to forgive me if I don't.
Thanks.
... black Friday. What were you thinking -- Christmas?
Here's my annual attempt to pry Christmas lists out of my friends and family by offering up what's good for me this year.
First, I do not NEED anything. I know that will contradict what you read below, but I'm sure you're all smart enough to understand the context. I have been incredibly blessed by family and friends this year, and by the opportunity to continue my studies. I do not expect anything except some holiday love, and I know that don't always come easy, either. I keep wish lists -- and gift lists for others -- at amazon.com for my own amusement. I hope to get my little bit of holiday shopping done early, for my own ease of planning and, frankly, for the good of our consumer economy.
"NEEDS:" pencils, particularly #2 Ticonderogas (they have the best erasers.) and drawing pencils (either the green ones or the blue ones are fine); pink pearl or similar erasers; recycled three-subject notebooks with as high post-consumer content as possible, with three-hole punches, if possible; drawing pads, fairly large format; graph paper; hygienic supplies: moisturizing soap (I particularly like Crabtree & Evelyn's rose scents.), Crest or Colgate whitening toothpaste "WANTS:" books and book gift certificates to area bookstores or chains; non-decadent jewelry, particularly earrings and bracelets (simple designs, beadwork or bees are best); gardening supplies (soil, soil amendments, clay pots, herb and vegetable seeds -- avoid the brand name & chemical; buy North American if at all possible)
With all due respect to my friends who are always kind enough to remember me with a token at the holidays, I'd really appreciate it if you left more personal gifts to my family and to my boyfriend of eight years. But PLEASE post or email a Christmas list. How can I help Santa without one??
If you have questions about the effort to rebuild at Ground Zero (and we all probably should), you now have the chance to get them to the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey. Starting today and running through Tuesday the public will may pose their questions to Christopher Ward, the port authority's executive director through a form on a Web site mounted by the governmental agency. Ward has indicated he intends to answer questions online.
Put on your thinking caps, boys and girls, explore the WTC progress web page, whatever other materials you think may help and, if you can, the Financial District and Lower Manhattan themselves. Don't be shy about asking your questions -- then check back for answers.
Let's assume the port authority will manage to address all subjects and issues brought to its attention, but if your question doesn't get answered, feel free to post here. Where there's a question, there's usually an answer.
Gannett's holding a live faceoff in New Jersey as I type: Zimmer and Lautenberg are meeting in person -- and they're taking questions from New Jersey daily newspapers and the chain's wire service live and via teleconference. The whole shebang is available live and on demand via the Internet.
The mechanism for offering up reader questions to their editorial board session was not clear to me upon clicking through at the start of the candidates' forum, but one question occurred to me last night that I'd like to hear both candidates address. I'm curious to hear whether they each accept the premise that the climate is trending toward global warming and, if they do, what they feel must be done in America's coastal communities to prepare for it.
Candid answers from both U.S. senatorial candidates, incumbent Frank Lautenberg and former Central Jersey Congressman Dick Zimmer, would shed light on their philosophy and, perhaps, coming practicalities. Zimmer has a reputation for being a person who would like to discredit "bad science." He was proactive on the dangers presented by radon in New Jersey buildings. At this moment, people in coastal communities, New Jersey's included, are dealing with federal efforts to remap the flood plains. New flood maps will certainly hit homeowners in the pocket book when new flood insurance is required. If the maps are accurate, they may describe the potential for coming natural disasters and weather crises.
There was youthful exuberance aplenty at John McCain's town hall meeting in Blue Bell Tuesday. Local college students were joined by a large contingent of home-schooled teens and private school students from nearby Gwynned Mercy Academy.
The "Women's Town Hall" was by no means limited to females, as men comprised a fair portion of those in attendance, too. But it was the youth who drove much of the volume and intensity of the crowd reaction to McCain's remarks. Someone next to me quietly wondered whether they were feeling the oats of their impending franchise, or whether they were letting off steam on a day off school. Me, I was just the weird kid in the back hunched over my Spanish homework and trying to get through the day.
If the more energetic were paying attention to the senator's remarks (I hope they were), they heard as good a speech as I've heard him deliver on a topic that eclipses all others at the moment: the economy. McCain touched on a plan that would, he hopes, save Main Street by cleansing and strengthening Wall Street. His ideas on the subject seem to contrast with Barack Obama's but not stand in direct conflict with them. All of which is to say that two things seem likely in America's future regardless of who's sworn in this coming January: federal purchases of defaulted mortgage debt and direct federal investment in our country's heretofore private banking institutions. It's going to take me some time to decide exactly what to think or how to feel about that. Government ownership -- even part ownership -- of banks and houses gives me the heebie jeebies. And I think my creepy crawlies are not only seasonal: I think they're a reasonable response to an unreasonable crisis.
I was glad I attended, as it gave me another view of my party's man and plenty of food for thought. My main criticism of the event were that it was not a true town hall meeting, as no questions were taken, and that the large standing-room crowd could not see McCain as he spoke.
I'll offer kudos to both meeting attendees and, yes, even to the few protestors outside the building. Both largely kept their cool. I was next to one small exchange that heated up to a simmer. It ended with the anti-McCain fellow running out of a, no doubt, somewhat limited supply of rhetorical skills and referring to buddy waiting to get into the meeting as an ancient feminine hygiene product.
Now that's irony, folks.
On a more rarified note, my day was capped off by Mass ending Visitation B.V.M. Catholic Church's 40 hours devotion, where Archbishop Justin Rigali carried the eucharistic host in procession back to the parish's Perpetual Adoration Chapel. There, for 10 years, people have had the opportunity to kneel and sit in contemplation of the mystery of Holy Communion. The cardinal's visit was an honor, and the accomplishment of those who have been so faithful to their prayer and devotion is inspiring. May it make all of us better people.
John Fund just suggested, on air in a session of the "Pundit Pit" on Fox News Channel's morning zoo, the presidential campaigns are "yelling racism in a crowded political theater," and that they, again in his words, ratchet it down a bit.
That seems a sensible enough idea. Honest discussion about race, culture and values should be on the table: Hysteria should not. It's a thought I'll personally, if quietly, advocate when John McCain visits my college tomorrow.
