News Ain't So Bright Today

Two things I need to discuss today.

1) My heart, well-wishes, and support goes to everyone both in Haiti, in this country, and everyone elsewhere in the world who have been affected by this tragic earthquake. Reports are now saying that more than half a million people have been lost or died in this awful quake. Events like this one make me want to quit my job and go help with the relief effort. I know that going to New Orleans and Honduras to help build and re-build homes for those who have been touched with tradegy were two of the best things I have ever done in my life. I have no doubt that going somewhere that needs immediate help would be life-changing, and I applaud everyone who is helping out by phsically going there, or giving financially to the efforts. It always seems that these natural disasters happen in the most impovershed places where the people and infrastructure are inequipped to handle it. It is so unfair. I encourage everyone to help in any way you can. Non-profits (as well as our federal government) around the world are rushing to support and encourage the relief efforts in Haiti.

How You Can Make a Difference:
American Red Cross, Oregon Pacific Chapter
Go to: http://oregonpacific.redcross.org/ or call 1-800-RED-CROSS. To donate via mobile texting text “HAITI” to “90999” and a donation of $10 will be given to the Red Cross to help with relief efforts. The Red Cross is not accepting donations of clothing or food due to transportation limitations.

Archdiocese of Portland
Go to www.archdpdx.org for Haiti Earthquake Relief or mail a check to Catholic Relief Services, 228 W. Lexington St., Baltimore Md. and specify “Haiti Relief.”

Mercy Corps
Mercy Corps Haiti Earthquake Fund, Dept NR, PO Box 2669, Portland OR 97208, 1-888-256-1900.

Holt International

Medical Teams International
Medical Teams International. P.O. Box 10, Portland, OR 97207. Or call 800-959-4325.


2) You may or may not know of my love of New York City. I find it magical and wonderful, I love the subway and the energy. I've visited a few times, but obviously have never lived here. However, I aspire to call it my home, even if for a little while, if I ever have the opportunity in my life. Tavern on the Green is a landmark there--and it is CLOSING. So sad, this historic NYC restaurant next to Central Park will be no more. I don't remember what the food tasted like or how the service was, but whenever I see white twinkle lights in trees it always reminds me of Tavern on the Green and my wonderful memories of exploring New York. Wonder what will go in it's place...probably a California Pizza Kitchen.

Signing off.