tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-148685292024-03-13T01:26:24.930-04:00The Sacred and ProfaneTales of subculture, community, creativity, spirituality, recovery, holistic healing, ecology, critical theory, art, music, technology, surfing, advocacy, gardening, metaphysics, people, places and things--sacred and profane.Dr. Donna Gaineshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18372708080654645746noreply@blogger.comBlogger102125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14868529.post-43935721930664659832023-01-05T16:53:00.004-05:002023-01-07T16:25:38.713-05:00Joey Ramone Cranks Deviance Theory<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju0MRAvYiJnbij_Ay4c3XGak0yQ63o_wQbG5PyM4zrfgTyitj2wdd0W3EIMFcO0bRDzMqrGXKtXkTPmrf5Xc91TQrHUO-1XwZOrljP0Hk0bKimPEgpmT-ewCjKa3dBr5XsdhhW4dy_Qjp8knzJsXqLn-hiFmgC7mnjARRDLMFcSv5wNzg6KB4/s276/images.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="183" data-original-width="276" height="283" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju0MRAvYiJnbij_Ay4c3XGak0yQ63o_wQbG5PyM4zrfgTyitj2wdd0W3EIMFcO0bRDzMqrGXKtXkTPmrf5Xc91TQrHUO-1XwZOrljP0Hk0bKimPEgpmT-ewCjKa3dBr5XsdhhW4dy_Qjp8knzJsXqLn-hiFmgC7mnjARRDLMFcSv5wNzg6KB4/w414-h283/images.jpg" width="414" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">In
2017, in the 3rd edition of McGraw Hill Education’s textbook <b>Experience
Sociology</b> edited by David Croteau and William Hoynes , I was invited to
contribute an essay profiling my own engagement in deviant music subcultures
that celebrate alienation and marginality, especially punk. The Ramones openly
celebrated the <i>Wart Hog</i>, the <i>Cretin</i>, <i>Pinhead, Outsider</i>,
and the <i>Time Bomb</i> promoting an ethic of inclusion they practiced in
song, deed and spirit. Their music lamented the permanent psychic damage
sustained from systematic social rejection and humiliation and made us laugh.
So it was my great joy to put Joey Ramone in a college textbook, honoring him
as a hero of generations of outcasts worldwide. I imagined him chuckling, “Yeah
Donna, a real textbook case.”</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fbucketeer-e05bbc84-baa3-437e-9518-adb32be77984.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fde1ca414-1db4-485a-9f2b-8db31e5e837b_290x350.jpeg" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;"></span></a></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">The
study of deviance is a great way to teach students fundamental sociological
concepts—norms, mores, sanctions. But for me it’s been sweet revenge.
Early on, labeling theorists such as Howard Becker argued that behaviors <i>are
deviant</i> <i>only when society labels them as deviant</i>. Who applies what
label to whom, why and what happens as a result of that labeling process tells
us more about power and control than about the transgressors themselves. We
don’t study the cross-dresser; we study the repressive patriarchal regime that
makes that a problem in the first place. <br /></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Labeling
theory redirects our attention from the designated freaks back to the straights
themselves—-the dominant order of teachers, the high school cliques, community
leaders, politicians, judges, police, shrinks, and doctors. Those who create
and adjudicate deviant labels—"addicts,” “alcoholics,” “criminals,”
“juvenile delinquents,” prostitutes, sex offenders, sexual outlaws,
developmentally and physically disabled people, psychiatric patients. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">An
individual burdened with a negative label inadvertently ends up with low
self-esteem, self-medicating, self-destructive, self-hating, internalizing the
stigma---the bullying of everyday life. Labelling theory rocks because it turns
that beat around, studies all the ways the social order demonizes, marginalizes
and punishes those who are different---folks who statistically fall outside of
the norm. Being <i>normal</i> is not the same as being <i>healthy,</i> it only
means you’re like everyone else. Most people are right-handed, some are not.
Redheads too. It goes on & on in a caste system of corrosive conformity.
Be thin not fat, white not black, male not female, hetero not queer,
cisgender not transgender, <i>be normal</i>, no special needs or we’ll burn you
at the stake. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">According
to Croteau and Hoynes, “We all face social pressures to conform---at home,
school or work---parents, teachers and supervisors reward us for conformity and
punish us for non-conformity.” If we succumb to these perceptions of being
“less than” we risk a lifetime of self-hatred, shame and social anxiety. Being
labelled can destroy us. Long-term deviance confers the title, “Outsider,”
“Misfit” “Weirdo.” </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">It’s
painful to carry that stain, unless you have friends and a deviant music
subculture that helps you reject the stigma and throw it back on the
creeps. And so I wrote, “Today, the former high school reject is a
personal hero. By just being himself ‘the king of punk’ gave teenage outcasts
everywhere something to believe in, an alternative to killing themselves or
blowing up the high school.”</span> <br /></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">French
sociologist Émile Durkheim viewed deviance as an inevitable part of how society
functions, as a basis for change and innovation---if it’s not your place in the
9 to 5 world, if you can’t, won’t or don’t fit in maybe you’ll find something
else to do, something fun, something real. For Durkheim, deviance allows us to
define the norm—we learn the rules of society by breaking them. Sometimes, we
end up dead or in jail. Sometimes we break the rules and win.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Thanks
to all the creeps and dirty bastards who made us nuts many former deviants have
built successful careers fighting back, giving the kids something to hold onto <i>until
it gets better. </i>When I published <b>Why the Ramones Matter </b>in 2018, I
explored the relationship between personal, collective and historical trauma,
addiction and creativity. I never imagined that life would get even harder for
the outsider. Worse than it was when Joey and I were growing up, worse than
when I was writing <b>Teenage Wasteland.</b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Gabba
gabba we accept you we accept you one of us. </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Whether
you’re a kid or an adult still processing the layers of pain, the scars of
being told you’re not good enough always remember it’s them, not you--they
hated us too. Salvation can be found—in social theory, in friends, a sense of
humor, and always, in the music.</span></p>
<p><style>@font-face
{font-family:"Cambria Math";
panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:roman;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:-536870145 1107305727 0 0 415 0;}@font-face
{font-family:Calibri;
panose-1:2 15 5 2 2 2 4 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:swiss;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:-536859905 -1073732485 9 0 511 0;}p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal
{mso-style-unhide:no;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
margin:0in;
margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;
mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri;
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}.MsoChpDefault
{mso-style-type:export-only;
mso-default-props:yes;
font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;
mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri;
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}div.WordSection1
{page:WordSection1;}</style><br /> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-7ZCptabn3ntbf9ZotO7uxOLjCp7s3nKRFrsEynj5G7fglxxwro8OswhRIrAXPwIkgTbbxKlRVfnL0XIYcR-Vm-9nOWy2-1Dt1msRtAU--cTPRumLhiAv6TT6FkJu6B1SuUtuZ7iXgcMotc3TAXigBVEG-_zj5lCfIkRil2GSqCWtsF_Hung/s276/images.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <br /></a></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5eqV34nbGlWRukC2bQmNEpZVKXpFN82uDOSi3ujBBBtxmkfwlwyJFJ5qKyBAdOsleR0WmyRT_3rdzTGOZU8LgPQvfPyH0SoPDaivWGCV4CykGZLUGk1VLdHsvM18llWzluQ8a-xTg7JfX2pLTQODMJcSQnDhrU9vmdqovzlouD_d2hxQOvVw/s3238/ddd6ee20-95ae-4c1c-ae2d-0cf822d78606_2676x3238-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3238" data-original-width="2676" height="625" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5eqV34nbGlWRukC2bQmNEpZVKXpFN82uDOSi3ujBBBtxmkfwlwyJFJ5qKyBAdOsleR0WmyRT_3rdzTGOZU8LgPQvfPyH0SoPDaivWGCV4CykGZLUGk1VLdHsvM18llWzluQ8a-xTg7JfX2pLTQODMJcSQnDhrU9vmdqovzlouD_d2hxQOvVw/w480-h625/ddd6ee20-95ae-4c1c-ae2d-0cf822d78606_2676x3238-1.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><br /><p></p>Dr. Donna Gaineshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18372708080654645746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14868529.post-32182540501446980812023-01-05T13:51:00.006-05:002023-01-05T14:09:16.218-05:00Night Rally: Youth and Fascism Today<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs3nRBA4oxMGttVnqh-WwxZ0jp1bi9iKdNWy4-4Tbj4lghtP2yFHokom4MPMbBjMgzPlsDRgupG9INOoCESYVxWK30P5yoX3Dt3KTmH5Fu33qd3XwoX0o9G-Je0t5X6GN9GsNfQlxrFRn3gGlU3b4vaWQGMxuvVc_5jDR2DEypk3-0A5MPg6Q/s581/mrr_037_cvr.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="581" data-original-width="450" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs3nRBA4oxMGttVnqh-WwxZ0jp1bi9iKdNWy4-4Tbj4lghtP2yFHokom4MPMbBjMgzPlsDRgupG9INOoCESYVxWK30P5yoX3Dt3KTmH5Fu33qd3XwoX0o9G-Je0t5X6GN9GsNfQlxrFRn3gGlU3b4vaWQGMxuvVc_5jDR2DEypk3-0A5MPg6Q/w327-h422/mrr_037_cvr.jpg" width="327" /></a></div><p></p><p></p><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">In June 1986, </span><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">I published my very first music essay, "Night Rally: Youth and Fascism Today"</span><span style="font-size: medium;"> <span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"> in Vol. 37 </span><i>of Maximum Rock & Roll</i>, a seminal punk scene zine out of the SF Bay area founded by Tim Yohanan. The late editor and founder of the </span></span>famed Gilman Street venue <span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: medium;">was concerned about the rising violence at the Gilman shows between encroaching neo-fascist skinheads and anti-fascist left-leaning punks aka anti-racists skins. Slamming hard, the pit was turning red with the blood of angry youth. </span></span><p><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Scene schisms are turf wars, ideological and cultural conflicts, contested terrain, typical of oppositional youth music subcultures where politics, race, class, and tastes converge, collide and sometimes and explode. Often, these political and cultural convictions are foundational--the underpinnings of a particular scene. At the time, I was completing my Ph.D., and has been very involved in the early NYC punk scene. By the late '80' punk had morphed into an edgier, more insular hardcore music scene. Tim hoped my essay would provide a necessary historical context to the ongoing violence at shows. (The original issue is available for download at archive.org MRR-37. For a PDF of the issue please email me at donna@donnagaines.com).<br /></span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: medium;">A generation later, in November 2022, I was invited to chair the "Anti-Fascist Cultural Warriors" panel at Hofstra University's "Anti-Fascism in the 21st Century" conference. Now an elder, I learned that two of the three young presenters, now scholars themselves were former writers or "shitworkers"--unpaid, overworked staff at MRR. It was a great gift to connect with them, but alas, here we are again, fighting the same war, on the streets, in the media, all around the world.<br /></span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Today I teach two undergraduate sociology courses, "Youth, Community and Cultur" and "Protest Music in History." Students explore everything from the Psalms, to Bob Marley, Pete Seeger, Rage against the Machine and the early jazz, hippie, hip hop, punk and thrash scenes. There's a sociological theory I try to pass on when it all gets too rough, when dark history repeats itself, <i>"SSSD"--Same Shit, Different Day.</i></span></span></p>Dr. Donna Gaineshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18372708080654645746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14868529.post-29334389853993456622023-01-03T17:16:00.004-05:002023-01-03T17:22:13.326-05:00Introducing Betty Bradley A Tribute to The Greatest Woman in Music<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br />
Betty Bradley was born in Brooklyn in 1920 under the sign of Sagittarius. An
American singer in the swing era of the 1940s, the starting point of her career
was an appearance on the Major Bowes' Original Amateur Hour in 1932, a talent
factory that launched stars such as Frank Sinatra and Fred Astaire. Her first
professional appearance came in 1939 with Gray Gordon and His TicToc Orchestra.
But that contract was quickly aborted. After making faces at the music during a
performance, she was summarily fired. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjITWwKIQq6CYNBnVlTLs5aTF74zNroyre92wx63uSfbByKxy6NN8SEvw0whNfqWBgKGM2fGa2a1y8gKB3LJvmLPWgq2dPnbTL80lVaPdt1ImvhmqXJf8EVaEfMbY9OQO12n-1oMPgnXb8qSqQyu9ongRU9sqQuzA9zRJ4cKtCW8fzYS9wDefY/s640/IMG_4701.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjITWwKIQq6CYNBnVlTLs5aTF74zNroyre92wx63uSfbByKxy6NN8SEvw0whNfqWBgKGM2fGa2a1y8gKB3LJvmLPWgq2dPnbTL80lVaPdt1ImvhmqXJf8EVaEfMbY9OQO12n-1oMPgnXb8qSqQyu9ongRU9sqQuzA9zRJ4cKtCW8fzYS9wDefY/s320/IMG_4701.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br />
Dismissing Gray Gordon’s music as too corny for her taste she immediately went
to work as the featured vocalist in the Bob Chester Orchestra, more in line
with her jazz and swing ambitions. Over the next few years Miss Bradley was
constantly touring, performing in nightclubs and dance halls like New York's
Latin Quarter, the Chicago Theater and the Earle in Philadelphia. Receiving
positive reviews from relevant magazines such as Billboard, once in Hollywood
she sat poolside with Sinatra, hung out with Rosemary Clooney and Doris
Day. In addition to numerous radio appearances including Rudy Vallee's radio
shows, Betty Bradley made forays into the film business, including a
performance as a nightclub singer in Trocadero. </span><br /><a href="https://youtu.be/acFxMO4wfsU"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">https://youtu.be/acFxMO4wfsU</span></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">
</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br />
In 1949, she terminated her career as a professional singer at the height of
her career, to the chagrin of her patron Milton Berle who had offered her a
career leap into the emerging television landscape. Appearing in joint
performances with Berle over the years, Bradley had demonstrated talents beyond
her already remarkable vocal performance—charismatic, comedic and dramatic.
After retiring from public life, she appeared again in the 1990’s on TV’s <i>Joe
Franklin’s Memory Lane</i>.</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLHSerT7NYk5OP1ZSxU06TbuZjLXWoCts53wV9a_ufWHZbNBHBEMYYAyeci9bwR5gwO0a5VJgZViJVjYC-vvdlc5Z-MK2RWYt0vOk07eF1ZGjAYDn7HoZhN04vKuX1z7qiwSCo-ANn7lmWL0-NheqdhIIjr4Hsb70ew217_lKGdQwjB60U6Zw/s640/IMG_4702.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="534" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLHSerT7NYk5OP1ZSxU06TbuZjLXWoCts53wV9a_ufWHZbNBHBEMYYAyeci9bwR5gwO0a5VJgZViJVjYC-vvdlc5Z-MK2RWYt0vOk07eF1ZGjAYDn7HoZhN04vKuX1z7qiwSCo-ANn7lmWL0-NheqdhIIjr4Hsb70ew217_lKGdQwjB60U6Zw/s320/IMG_4702.jpg" width="267" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br />
In 1946 Betty Bradley got married to the first of four husbands—a roadie from
her touring days she divorced in 1946. In 1949 she married Herbert Denmark, a
Brooklyn caterer she’d known since her teenage years. In 1951, her
second husband died from Hotchkins Lymphoma misdiagnosed as the flu only
one month after their daughter—-Bradley’s only child—was born in the same
hospital. In 1954 the widow Betty Denmark married Arthur Gaines, a
successful Brooklyn car dealer who died ten years later from heart disease. In
1965 Mrs. Gaines found a soul mate and happiness with musician 'DOM'
Gottesman, who owned a liquor store. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZAbhe_X14aoyReDlswmTYhsAlwPF7Rj-rckI-IZda0l_ykLzanK5X9JjpxnGYKocu_bQoMZzPAFKs_KLnK0Mx16044ZUyZ9Hj8zYUGjT9doyOQ0Otr6pfTnCz22PKI_ILJkV_r0bs2SCtHaZQRCrKoUsbID9Gd_twVgPPsnz9Bde-WE_sJps/s960/48123035_10157159937523338_6458205987848323072_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="368" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZAbhe_X14aoyReDlswmTYhsAlwPF7Rj-rckI-IZda0l_ykLzanK5X9JjpxnGYKocu_bQoMZzPAFKs_KLnK0Mx16044ZUyZ9Hj8zYUGjT9doyOQ0Otr6pfTnCz22PKI_ILJkV_r0bs2SCtHaZQRCrKoUsbID9Gd_twVgPPsnz9Bde-WE_sJps/w276-h368/48123035_10157159937523338_6458205987848323072_n.jpg" width="276" /></a></span></div><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">In
the 1970, Betty Bradley was diagnosed with breast cancer. She survived for
another eighteen years after two radical mastectomies, numerous radiation
treatments and body-shaming in a social climate that relegated breast cancer
survivors to private sorrow. In the years that followed her remission she
become a fundraiser, an advocate who supported women resisting the stigma of
breast cancer. In the late 1980s, the cancer returned spreading to her lungs
and stomach. She died at home on January 16, 1989. A drummer and combat
veteran with union roots, DOM cared for his first and only wife until her
death. He never remarried.<br />
Betty Bradley ended her career as a professional singer in 1951 for the sake of
her marriage to Herbert Denmark. He insisted, said he didn’t want her any
further than he could throw a piano. But she never stopped singing, sharing her
great gift at family jam sessions, celebrations and charity events. The
last memory I have of my mother alive was sitting on a recliner in her living
room surrounded by medications, DOM and her nurses. In agonizing pain, broken
by life, Betty Bradly flipped death the bird. She kept on singing. </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><a href="https://youtu.be/bRiYSoC4yqA"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">https://youtu.be/bRiYSoC4yqA</span></a></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><u><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br />
Film and Discography:</span></u></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">1940:
The Foreign Correspondent </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">1944:
Trocadero </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">19<u>45:
The Moon of Mona Koora</u></span></p><u>
</u><p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><u><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br />
Sound Recordings:</span></u></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">1939:
Why Don't You Try Your Love On Me (Victor 26253-B) </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">1941:
Clap Your Hands On the After Beat (Bluebird
B-11172-A) </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">1941:
Feed The Kitty (Bluebird B-11100-B) </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">1941:
My Ship (Bluebird B-11043-A) </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">1941:
This Love Of Mine (Bluebird B-11316-B) </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">1941:
Winter Weather (Bluebird B-11405-A) </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">1941:
There Goes That Song Again (Bluebird B-11227-B) </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">1942:
(Nobody Knows Better Than I) He's My Guy (Bluebird B-11562-A) </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">1942:
Who Do You Think You Are (Standard T-2048-B) </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">1944:
Together 1944: Where You Are (Hit
7089) </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">1945:
Summertime (Jewel J-1002) </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">1946:
Welcome To My Dreams / The Gypsy (Jewel J-1003) </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">1947:
Wait Till The Sun Shines Nellie (RCA Victor 20-2629-A)</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">HoneySuckle
Rose:</span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FPe01D26wbk"> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FPe01D26wbk</a></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD6r4iGOC8tgid_ZXX3ya05Q0W2uNWAkir31xiGKbmkIwfloiHDUgz_mpx9QLlc7zK21PpgLMlVZApDoNXselwCKNw6g2A8E_ZBkRCa1_nkb9VFSdptJOXia67B77oD8XQrXg67dJQoUUjJKWRRUrUC1gJU9PgoslD1-7LWSJ-TpGpnu6HzZM/s533/IMG_2382.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="463" data-original-width="533" height="278" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD6r4iGOC8tgid_ZXX3ya05Q0W2uNWAkir31xiGKbmkIwfloiHDUgz_mpx9QLlc7zK21PpgLMlVZApDoNXselwCKNw6g2A8E_ZBkRCa1_nkb9VFSdptJOXia67B77oD8XQrXg67dJQoUUjJKWRRUrUC1gJU9PgoslD1-7LWSJ-TpGpnu6HzZM/s320/IMG_2382.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p></p><table border="0" cellpadding="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="mso-cellspacing: 1.5pt; mso-yfti-tbllook: 1184;"><tbody><tr style="mso-yfti-firstrow: yes; mso-yfti-irow: 0; mso-yfti-lastrow: yes;"><td style="padding: 0.75pt;"><br /></td><td style="padding: 0.75pt;"><br /></td><td style="padding: 0.75pt;"> </td><td style="padding: 0.75pt;"> </td><td style="padding: 0.75pt;"> </td><td style="padding: 0.75pt;">Donna Gaines 12/6/22<br /></td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<p class="MsoNormal"> </p>
<p><style>@font-face
{font-family:"Cambria Math";
panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:roman;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:-536870145 1107305727 0 0 415 0;}@font-face
{font-family:Calibri;
panose-1:2 15 5 2 2 2 4 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:swiss;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:-536859905 -1073732485 9 0 511 0;}p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal
{mso-style-unhide:no;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
margin:0in;
margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;
mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri;
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}a:link, span.MsoHyperlink
{mso-style-priority:99;
color:blue;
text-decoration:underline;
text-underline:single;}a:visited, span.MsoHyperlinkFollowed
{mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
color:#954F72;
mso-themecolor:followedhyperlink;
text-decoration:underline;
text-underline:single;}.MsoChpDefault
{mso-style-type:export-only;
mso-default-props:yes;
font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;
mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri;
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}div.WordSection1
{page:WordSection1;}</style> <br /></p>Dr. Donna Gaineshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18372708080654645746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14868529.post-32536270014971947602023-01-03T17:07:00.008-05:002023-01-07T14:28:22.774-05:00Sacred and Profane Winter Reading List: New Books to Love in 2023<p>
</p><br /><p class="MsoNormal"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif"> </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN1vNGYX8efdQIU5NfD93zPD2S-na50Wu6r7P0eH14OCFq4Et6MucE3giukLSK3_vK4bqvfghC76IzpIlDYf3t8T0yKn-87IQuoITF08LiMTeYuP9VLaY430nz_axRZNzYB3OTRPhoFA5HoS2AgP-l8pyJFzgcyMrUIEn3RQVwIFtteLYTP1c/s3648/20230105_182704.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1706" data-original-width="3648" height="254" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN1vNGYX8efdQIU5NfD93zPD2S-na50Wu6r7P0eH14OCFq4Et6MucE3giukLSK3_vK4bqvfghC76IzpIlDYf3t8T0yKn-87IQuoITF08LiMTeYuP9VLaY430nz_axRZNzYB3OTRPhoFA5HoS2AgP-l8pyJFzgcyMrUIEn3RQVwIFtteLYTP1c/w501-h254/20230105_182704.jpg" width="501" /></a></span></div><span face=""Arial",sans-serif"><br /></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif">Readers love to read
especially when it’s cold and wet outside. There’s nothing better to warm the
heart than a new book.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you’re iced
in, snowed in, or looking for something fresh, here’s my greatest hits list for Winter 2023<br /></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><u><span face=""Arial",sans-serif">Shine
Bright: A Very Personal History of Black Women in Pop</span></u></b><span face=""Arial",sans-serif"> by Danyel Smith.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif">“Dazzling”
critics have declared, the gorgeous cover alone will raise your serotonin-- orange,
the color of the second chakra, <i>Svadhishthana,</i> the seat of life---so
let’s bring on the joy. Danyel Smith shines too, mixing up a deeply emotional Gen
X memoir with the hidden history of Black women and their under-acknowledged foundational
role in American popular music. Smith is a novelist, award-winning journo, host
of Spotify’s <i>Black Girl Songbook</i>, former editor at <i>Billboard, Time</i>,
editor in chief at <i>Vibe</i> and so much more. As of Spring Semester 2023, <u>Shine
Bright</u> will grace my syllabus for “Protest Music in History.” </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><u><span face=""Arial",sans-serif"><b>Rest is
Resistance: A Manifesto</b> by Tricia Hersey</span></u></p><p class="MsoNormal"><u><span face=""Arial",sans-serif"> </span></u></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif">My community is
a stronghold of teachers, surfers, first responders and healers. During peak
Covid, burned out moms were caught between home schooling, bizarro zoom-land
education and a societal clampdown that sequestered us between fear of horrific
death and rage from over-regulated living. Some people ended up drinking too
much, marriages blew up, and one friend ended up in a psychiatric hospital. But
one point of refuge was Hersey’s online Nap Ministry where moms found “radical
restoration” through the subversive act of sleep. Founded on black liberation
theology, grounded in history, poetry and nature, to simply rest means to take
back the body, to live where the world can’t touch you. Doing less, not more
emerges as <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>a song of liberation, a
healing modality and a way back to our humanity. How dare we stop, rest, breathe,
recoil, reclaim the body—once a commodity form for the enslaved--from the
“grind culture” of everyday life? You may find <u>Rest is Resistance</u> life
altering. It’s a gift of love to my stressed-out neighbors and my over-worked students
in “Holistic Healing in Human Services,” light warriors, mostly adult
women—including women of color--- who do too much, more than their share--- at
home, at work, and in the community. Always caring for everyone but
themselves.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><u><span face=""Arial",sans-serif">Bad Sex:
Truth, Pleasure and an Unfinished Revolution</span></u></b><span face=""Arial",sans-serif"> by Nona Willis Aronowitz.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif">Nona is the
only child of my Great Mentors, the late O.G. feminist music critic<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>and scholar Ellen Willis and
Activist/Sociologist<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Stanley Aronowitz. I
met Nona when she was 18 months old, a feisty, fearless toddler. Now a young
new mother herself, N.W.A. is already an established author and editor, a prolific
journalist and the editor of two award-winning anthologies of her mother’s
ground-breaking work. <u>Bad Sex </u>resituates pleasure and sexual liberation
back into radical feminist discourse: “An intelligent and disarmingly honest
book about sex, love marriage, radical feminism, …and the true meaning of sexual
liberation” says author Amia Srinivasan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>After her marriage ends, in part due to unfulfilling sex, drawing from
personal, historical and intellectual familial history and scholarship, Willis-Aronowitz
picks up the torch her mother left behind, merging it with her own herstory, framing
the discussion for herself and her own generation. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><u><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Wanderers: A History of Women Walking</span></u></b><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">
by Kerri Andrews</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Sitting meditation has always been a challenge for me, I’m
wired for combat, I can’t sit still. Even reading makes me nervous. But
movement always gets me there. Whether it’s a brisk walk in the cold winter
air, or body-surfing, dancing gardening, or painting, I’ve gotta get physical
and I need to be outside. Kerri Andrews, an English professor in the UK
celebrates the long tradition of women who walk—and wrote. Ten profiles of
spiritual seekers and creative women doing something once considered subversive—in
the bad old days when forced domesticity, bound feet, or corsets held us
captive, walking alone was a radical action. Sometimes it’s hard to imagine the
shit our ancestors had to endure, how far we have come, and still have to go.
This book, originally published in a the UK, is distributed by University of
Chicago Press. As of January, 2023, Wanderers is on the reading list for
“Spirituality in the Helping Relationship.” After a long day of grading papers,
writing, as a way to calm down, nothing beats walking, wandering, watching the
world, downloading snippets of truth with the radio on, roadrunner, roadrunner.</span></p><p><style>@font-face
{font-family:"Cambria Math";
panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:roman;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:-536870145 1107305727 0 0 415 0;}@font-face
{font-family:Calibri;
panose-1:2 15 5 2 2 2 4 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:swiss;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:-536859905 -1073732485 9 0 511 0;}p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal
{mso-style-unhide:no;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
margin:0in;
margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;
mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri;
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}.MsoChpDefault
{mso-style-type:export-only;
mso-default-props:yes;
font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;
mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri;
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}div.WordSection1
{page:WordSectio</style><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9vbg7zB_g2Xq7X4iBhgfOE-izM1-rYv-hBiXnVSyYC-kZxcC_hGwJdZv0J5bue_wHR3_gXajMrO3oCG9IJD1nO3J0PZDLNRqq2T9V3JpkEvzstE-xxMKUzLAnNsmhmqUINwJ2SyXFTbgRIX-YnnBJSmPYhlhlMpQTA46E5otTBa6DCpO28SQ/s3056/20220603_101147.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2390" data-original-width="3056" height="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9vbg7zB_g2Xq7X4iBhgfOE-izM1-rYv-hBiXnVSyYC-kZxcC_hGwJdZv0J5bue_wHR3_gXajMrO3oCG9IJD1nO3J0PZDLNRqq2T9V3JpkEvzstE-xxMKUzLAnNsmhmqUINwJ2SyXFTbgRIX-YnnBJSmPYhlhlMpQTA46E5otTBa6DCpO28SQ/s320/20220603_101147.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Dr. Donna Gaineshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18372708080654645746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14868529.post-38994111036018852262023-01-03T17:03:00.002-05:002023-01-03T17:03:20.605-05:00Superflumina Babylonis: The Career of a Song in History<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5qM8Lp-qaSSouWfc3R7ftOwjf8FNKCR4t0XKwN4Q_YfZw1UZfCSe_3uzS2M06_0TFis2Ab58oB0E8T7Oxrhf_qRnMh1EBeT85mxXFqnsI8jqK-J76QK5ZwQT0DSes1-CrdtvWO935pHir4oofeHKQbrowiXxli4NmRZxL4S3zuICT2y6N9rA/s186/Unknown.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="186" data-original-width="155" height="186" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5qM8Lp-qaSSouWfc3R7ftOwjf8FNKCR4t0XKwN4Q_YfZw1UZfCSe_3uzS2M06_0TFis2Ab58oB0E8T7Oxrhf_qRnMh1EBeT85mxXFqnsI8jqK-J76QK5ZwQT0DSes1-CrdtvWO935pHir4oofeHKQbrowiXxli4NmRZxL4S3zuICT2y6N9rA/s1600/Unknown.jpeg" width="155" /></a></div><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1;">In the 16th Century Giovanni Pierluigi da
Palestrina was an Italian </span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Renaissance_music"><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">Renaissance</span></a><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1;"> composer of </span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Religious_music"><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">sacred
music</span></a><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1;">. Motet Superflumina Babylonis <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>was part of his early church liturgy project. A
random discovery, mesmerized, I've been rotating it almost daily since 2003. </span><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1;">Ethereal, celestial, the song transports<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>me to higher ground. But I don’t speak Latin,
so I traced it through history, back to its origin, Psalm 137. </span><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1;"></span><a href="https://music.youtube.com/watch?v=N__s5SLd3B0" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">https://music.youtube.com/watch?v=N__s5SLd3B0</a><a href="https://music.youtube.com/watch?v=N__s5SLd3B0 "><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1;"> </span></a><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1;"> </span></p><br /><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1;"> </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq4naq0r3r8RZc9ZzzmPkcSzSzXFx_U_53LUqbNsessKwvfsgp9uXXqt6UjkdqAIqXw0Kt_yTeXzedXgj_-OmG24pQ5a9P-6IewkTnjmYJ5nnaG7S_OQObcSTliETbTet8AcOETC8PhzzpGErE0GpdWKNWQU8_qFsTWjbsr8Cv3WTLqIfkEKA/s800/Eduard_Bendemann-_Die_trauernden_Juden_im_Exil_um_1832.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="530" data-original-width="800" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq4naq0r3r8RZc9ZzzmPkcSzSzXFx_U_53LUqbNsessKwvfsgp9uXXqt6UjkdqAIqXw0Kt_yTeXzedXgj_-OmG24pQ5a9P-6IewkTnjmYJ5nnaG7S_OQObcSTliETbTet8AcOETC8PhzzpGErE0GpdWKNWQU8_qFsTWjbsr8Cv3WTLqIfkEKA/s320/Eduard_Bendemann-_Die_trauernden_Juden_im_Exil_um_1832.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1;">By the rivers of Babylon we sat and wept when
we remembered Zion.</span></i></p><p class="MsoNormal"><i><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1;">There on the poplars we hung our harps, for
there our captors asked us for songs, our tormentors demanded songs of
joy;<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>they said, “Sing us one of the
songs of Zion!”</span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1;">How can we sing the songs of the
LORD while in a foreign land?</span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1;">If I forget you, Jerusalem, may my right hand
forget its skill. </span></i><i><span style="color: black; font-family: "MS Mincho"; mso-bidi-font-family: "MS Mincho"; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1;"> </span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1;">May my tongue cling to the roof of my mouth if
I do not remember you, </span></i><i><span style="color: black; font-family: "MS Mincho"; mso-bidi-font-family: "MS Mincho"; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1;"> </span><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1;"> if </span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1;">I do not consider Jerusalem my highest joy…</span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1;">Psalm 137 </span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1;">The
rivers of </span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Babylon"><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">Babylon</span></a><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1;"> are the </span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Euphrates"><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">Euphrates</span></a><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1;"> & </span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tigris"><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">Tigris</span></a><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1;">. The Psalm expresses the deep sorrow of a defeated
people, the Jewish people in exile following the Babylonian conquest of </span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jerusalem"><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">Jerusalem</span></a><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1;"> in </span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/586_BC"><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">586 BC</span></a><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1;">. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It reflects
the relentless yearning for Jerusalem, the sadness of the </span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Israelite"><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">Israelites</span></a><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1;">, the ironic, tragic humiliation of being asked
by their conquerors to perform, <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>to
"sing the Lord's song in a foreign land". They refuse, leaving their
harps hanging on trees. The longing for everything that’s home and the dream of
redemption.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1;">But then, Psalm 137 quickly gets get dark and
gory, turning from lamentation to a blood oath---to remember </span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jerusalem"><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">Jerusalem</span></a><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1;">. It ends with violent fantasies of revenge
that awaits a<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>"Daughter of Babylon,”
of the delight of <i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>he who seizes your
infants and dashes them against the rocks</i>. The wrath of God, of <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>human hands <i>made strong <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>by the hand of the almighty” </i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rabbinical sources attributed the poem to the
prophet </span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeremiah"><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">Jeremiah</span></a><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1;">, <i>For David. By Jeremias, in Captivity.</i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1;">Catastrophic loss, displacement, mourning, then
rage and vengeance: This is the engine of human history. The propellant of War,
Politics, Power, Religion, Community, Society, Oppression, Exploitation, Enslavement,
Rape, Resistance. Of course Psalm 137 has survived long after peoples, tribes,
and nations have not.. It’s a song of freedom buried deeply in collective human
hearts, written into our DNA over centuries of hope, of struggle and prayer---for
the possibility of liberation, grace, and justice. Across all the geographic,
linguistic, ideological and religious lines that separate us, we dream. It’s
the song of the refugee, the displaced, the destitute and the warrior. In the <span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">13th Century during the Holy Crusades to
retake Jerusalem from Muslims Pope Gregory again invokes<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Psalm 137 to rally his armies before
departing on the bloody </span></span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crusades"><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">Crusades</span></a><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1;">. Holy and bloody,
guns and God. The yearning is never far from the bleeding.</span><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1;"> <br /></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1;">In the 19th Century Psalm 137 reappears in the
words of the great American social reformer, </span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Writer"><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">writer</span></a><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1;"> and </span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Statesman"><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">statesman</span></a><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1;">, Frederick Douglass. After escaping from </span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Slavery"><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">slavery</span></a><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1;">, he became a leader of the </span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Abolitionism"><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">abolitionist</span></a><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1;"> movement known for his dazzling oration and
incisive antislavery writing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Frederick
Douglass stood as a living counter-example to slaveholders' arguments that the
enslaved did not have the intellectual capacity to function as independent
American citizens.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Many Northerners also
found it hard to believe that such a great orator had been a slave.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhezhnmP9r32SHvgsgFmMrUuqxwonTOGADYURHrediI5awXu1U773SK_lT9bwtRkEivkubR1MsrsZ0KN081-OAUVsnozasS7wet9GDNF-MX4GPWSfogRTXF7JN2RejtE7t4AZ3LPUq1_2-PieAEgNU0fJfIRzJKV4TIGHeSioO5lwmjJ7IKrI4/s3000/Frederick_Douglass_(circa_1879).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="2089" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhezhnmP9r32SHvgsgFmMrUuqxwonTOGADYURHrediI5awXu1U773SK_lT9bwtRkEivkubR1MsrsZ0KN081-OAUVsnozasS7wet9GDNF-MX4GPWSfogRTXF7JN2RejtE7t4AZ3LPUq1_2-PieAEgNU0fJfIRzJKV4TIGHeSioO5lwmjJ7IKrI4/w186-h267/Frederick_Douglass_(circa_1879).jpg" width="186" /></a></div><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1;"></span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1;">In 1852---some 13 years before slavery was
completely abolished, Douglass was asked<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>to deliver a </span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fourth_of_July"><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">Fourth
of July</span></a><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1;"> speech by Rochester Ladies’ Anti-Slavery
Society, Frederick Douglas was astonished by the absurdity of this request, “</span><a href="http://www.lib.rochester.edu/index.cfm?page=2945"><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">”</span></a><span class="MsoHyperlink"><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;"> he
asked, </span></span><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>comparing
their request---that a slave should be asked to talk about 4th of July, America’s
Independence day--to <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>the actions of the
Babylonian captors asking the </span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jews"><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">Jews</span></a><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1;"> to sing and play their harps while captive in
a foreign land. “The blessings in which you, this day, rejoice, are not enjoyed
in common. The rich inheritance of justice, liberty, prosperity and
independence, bequeathed by your fathers, is shared by you, not by me. The
sunlight that brought light and healing to you has brought stripes and death to
me. This Fourth July is yours, not mine. You may rejoice, I must mourn. To drag
a man in fetters into the grand illuminated temple of liberty, and call upon
him to join you in joyous anthems---an inhuman mockery and sacrilegious irony.
Do you mean, citizens, to mock me, by asking me to speak today?” For Douglass America is Babylon. It was not
until December 6, 1865 – That the Thirteenth Amendment of the US Constitution
was ratified officially abolishing slavery. The last of the enslaved were
finally free.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1;">In the 20th Century, Psalm 137 entered popular
culture again, by way of Jamaica. "Rivers of Babylon" is a Rastafari song
written and recorded by Brent Dowe and Trevor McNaughton of the </span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jamaican"><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">Jamaican</span></a><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1;"> </span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Reggae"><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">reggae</span></a><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1;"> group The Melodians in 1970. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rastas assert that </span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zion#Rastafari_movement"><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">Zion</span></a><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1;"> i.e., Africa, especially Ethiopia, is a land
Jah promised to them. To achieve this, they reject modern </span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Western_world"><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">western
society</span></a><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1;">, calling it "</span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rastafarian_vocabulary#Other_words"><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">Babylon</span></a><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1;">", which they see as entirely corrupt. Rastas
claim to be the real </span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Children_of_Israel"><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">Children
of Israel</span></a><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1;">. They seek to validate a link between Ethiopia
and Israel, pointing to the title, </span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lion_of_Judah"><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">Lion
of Judah</span></a><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1;">, their goal is to repatriate to Mount Zion.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Rastafari movement was a </span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_religious_movement"><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>religious movement</span></a><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1;"> that arose in the 1930s in </span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jamaica"><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">Jamaica</span></a><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1;">, a country with a predominantly </span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christianity"><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">Christian</span></a><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1;"> culture where 98% of the people were the </span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Black_people"><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">black</span></a><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1;"> descendants of enslaved people. Most of its
adherents worship </span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Haile_Selassie_I"><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">Haile
Selassie I</span></a><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1;">, Emperor of </span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ethiopia"><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">Ethiopia</span></a><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1;"> who ruled 1930–1974, as </span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/God"><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">God</span></a><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1;"> </span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Incarnation"><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">incarnate</span></a><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1;">, the </span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Second_Advent"><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">Second
Advent</span></a><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1;">, or the reincarnation of Jesus.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1;">Bob Marley is the Patron Saint of a popular undergraduate
course I teach, <i>Protest Music in History</i>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m a sociologist interested in the interrelationships
between religion, identity, popular culture, spirituality, faith politics and
community. From the first moment I heard Palestrina’s
exquisite Superflumina Babylonis, it haunted me. So I followed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It connects me to my own voice, heals my
hurts, empowers me to fight back. It helps me open myself to Higher Power, to
you, to history, and the world.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I hear
this song in Johnny Thunder’s <i>So Alone</i>, filled with the desperation of addiction,
the cockroach soul of the defeated junkie. I heard it the fall of<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>CBGBs in 2005, in the death of the original
Ramones, and Ramones and the defeat of NYC by the money people.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
played it every day after 2012 SuperStorm Sandy, when I lost my home, my car,
by the rivers of Long Beach NY, our community was displaced, dispersed, after
the ocean met the bay midpoint on our barrier Island. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1;">What does HOME mean to you? <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What
does HOME mean to all the vibrant, creative Black lives being cut short every
day? To the Native Peoples fighting for water, for holy ground, for their
dignity, for the Earth? To the people of Ukraine. To the the frightened,
starving, stateless refugees dying to reach safe harbor?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>To women in this age of increasingly brutal
misogyny, <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>To the enslaved: Stolen every
day for sex trafficking, forced labor. For kids trapped in abusive families,
bullied at home, in school and on the streets for being who they are? What does
home mean to the transgender body and soul? To LGBTQ people of the world ? To
the Jewish people, now, in </span><span face="arial, sans-serif" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(32, 33, 36); color: #202124; display: inline; float: none; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: auto; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">5783<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1;">(2022-2023)?</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1;">We make a choice every day: To love or hate, to
fight back or be crushed,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>to have faith
or give up, to heal or to kill, to live in peace or be destroyed in war.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We Are All Shows of the Same Sun It’s a WE
world---we cannot do it alone. Reach out—to your neighbor, to your community,
to you enemy, to your guiding force. We are never alone, we are always loved,
we are strong, we are good and we will be free. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1;"> </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkHdC8zssw3e2Qg4_6yZBE3hb0XpINEpQ6y9zBehJAPBSudOEOXIMnNjboorJvpsD0GDnBjcUXqpbaHZq6fkCfWO2DsvSSCwkvmLpat_3EJ3xTs9vgoaz45d0g3OC_3zUqHzpoEReQsdAFAMeR1Qe1k72h73H4mUr5HmwWk5WSmd6fshWVz2s/s146/images.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="146" data-original-width="146" height="188" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkHdC8zssw3e2Qg4_6yZBE3hb0XpINEpQ6y9zBehJAPBSudOEOXIMnNjboorJvpsD0GDnBjcUXqpbaHZq6fkCfWO2DsvSSCwkvmLpat_3EJ3xTs9vgoaz45d0g3OC_3zUqHzpoEReQsdAFAMeR1Qe1k72h73H4mUr5HmwWk5WSmd6fshWVz2s/w188-h188/images.jpeg" width="188" /></a></span></div><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1;"><i><br /></i></span><p></p><i>
</i><p class="MsoNormal">
</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">An earlier version of this essay was presented as </span>“Superflumina Babylonis:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Career of a Song Over Time” in a panel I organized titled "Songs of Freedom: Protest
Music in History,” at
<span style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">The </span></span><span style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">Museum of Pop
Culture<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(MoPop)</span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">, <span style="mso-tab-count: 3;"></span>Seattle Washington.</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"></span></i></p><i>
</i><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><style><i>@font-face
{font-family:Helvetica;
panose-1:0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:auto;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:-536870145 1342208091 0 0 415 0;}@font-face
{font-family:"Cambria Math";
panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:roman;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:-536870145 1107305727 0 0 415 0;}p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal
{mso-style-unhide:no;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
margin:0in;
margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:10.0pt;
font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;
mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-fareast-language:ZH-CN;}.MsoChpDefault
{mso-style-type:export-only;
mso-default-props:yes;
font-size:10.0pt;
mso-ansi-font-size:10.0pt;
mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;}div.WordSection1
{page:WordSection1;}</i></style></p><i>
</i><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><i><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1;"> </span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: black; mso-effects-shadow-align: topleft; mso-effects-shadow-alpha: 40.0%; mso-effects-shadow-angledirection: 2700000; mso-effects-shadow-anglekx: 0; mso-effects-shadow-angleky: 0; mso-effects-shadow-color: black; mso-effects-shadow-dpidistance: 1.5pt; mso-effects-shadow-dpiradius: 3.0pt; mso-effects-shadow-pctsx: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-pctsy: 100.0%; mso-effects-shadow-themecolor: dark1; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-align: center; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-compound: simple; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dash: solid; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-dpiwidth: 0pt; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-join: round; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-linecap: flat; mso-style-textoutline-outlinestyle-pctmiterlimit: 0%; mso-style-textoutline-type: none; mso-themecolor: text1;"> </span></p>
<p><style>@font-face
{font-family:"MS Mincho";
panose-1:2 2 6 9 4 2 5 8 3 4;
mso-font-alt:"MS 明朝";
mso-font-charset:128;
mso-generic-font-family:modern;
mso-font-pitch:fixed;
mso-font-signature:-536870145 1791491579 134217746 0 131231 0;}@font-face
{font-family:"Cambria Math";
panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:roman;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:3 0 0 0 1 0;}@font-face
{font-family:Cambria;
panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:roman;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:-536870145 1073743103 0 0 415 0;}@font-face
{font-family:"\@MS Mincho";
panose-1:2 2 6 9 4 2 5 8 3 4;
mso-font-charset:128;
mso-generic-font-family:modern;
mso-font-pitch:fixed;
mso-font-signature:-536870145 1791491579 134217746 0 131231 0;}p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal
{mso-style-unhide:no;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
margin:0in;
margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:"Cambria",serif;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:Cambria;
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}a:link, span.MsoHyperlink
{mso-style-priority:99;
color:blue;
mso-themecolor:hyperlink;
text-decoration:underline;
text-underline:single;}a:visited, span.MsoHyperlinkFollowed
{mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
color:purple;
mso-themecolor:followedhyperlink;
text-decoration:underline;
text-underline:single;}.MsoChpDefault
{mso-style-type:export-only;
mso-default-props:yes;
font-family:"Cambria",serif;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:Cambria;
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}div.WordSection1
{page:WordSection1;}</style></p><br /><br />Dr. Donna Gaineshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18372708080654645746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14868529.post-68959799169976722392023-01-03T16:37:00.006-05:002023-01-03T16:37:47.461-05:00One of Us: Why Misfits Loved Johnny Cash<p><br /><br /> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8ZrFPujhJPQbtFSye1v_8TVaEzGgwnytZvFsXnz8jOKjWF18n6m8X7Z1AumkBrWtVDdd9aorsh60reXlU2l1EVf5ZPGovyQsjkT_0LfTvhuzjkJ8X3lHGKkEBLOFHI51ZQOffaj1XS9LyedrVk6FbSsh315ssCYtI7XrSfDyxfyaPe_WI6kI/s240/35160708_a9b0650021_m.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="240" data-original-width="188" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8ZrFPujhJPQbtFSye1v_8TVaEzGgwnytZvFsXnz8jOKjWF18n6m8X7Z1AumkBrWtVDdd9aorsh60reXlU2l1EVf5ZPGovyQsjkT_0LfTvhuzjkJ8X3lHGKkEBLOFHI51ZQOffaj1XS9LyedrVk6FbSsh315ssCYtI7XrSfDyxfyaPe_WI6kI/s1600/35160708_a9b0650021_m.jpg" width="188" /></a></div>There's a mystical property that elevates an artist like Johnny Cash above the idolatry of celebrity cult status, and confers upon him immortality. What was it about the Depression-era farm boy from Arkansas, who toured for 38 years, recorded 1500 songs, still has 45 albums in print, won eleven grammys and a Lifetime Achievement Award too?<br /><br />But true greatness transcends the banal units of market shares, record sales or arbitron ratings. For some, it was Johnny Cash's cultural impact. Critics have credited him with "strengthening the bonds between folk and country music so that both sides saw their similarities as well as their differences. Johnny Cash “liberalized Nashville so it could accept the unconventional and the controversial" He blow-torched country music's rhinestone glitz the day he showed up at the Grand Ole Opry dressed in flat black. Oh, and then there was his voice.<br /><br />Bono once said, "Not since John the Baptist has there been a voice like that, crying in the wilderness---every man knows he's a sissy compared to Johnny Cash." Cash revealed America's brutal truth in the tale of a drunk found dead of exposure in a Pima reservation cotton field. The broken bag of brown skin and bones was once a man of valor; Ira Hayes, the Native American soldier who helped raise the flag at Iwo Jima. Johnny Cash also taught us the healing power of forgiveness. He spent so much time performing inside prison walls we assumed he'd done hard time---but he didn't. He went inside to heal the hearts of heartless men. Men like the one who "shot a man in Reno, just to watch him die". Cash taught us compassion. He understood firsthand that redemption was possible at anytime, for anyone, even the most abject cold-hearted killer. <br /><br />He talked it, but he walked it too, using his gifts to uplift the human race, to repair the world, to honor his Creator. Johnny Cash petitioned us to feed the poor, save the child, forgive the criminal, help the drunk and remember the forgotten. His magnitude was also reflected in his character---in his devotion to his "poor valley girl," his bride and soul mate, June Carter, who died just last May. And in his spiritual generosity---in sharing his most personal truths; a soul-killing addiction and born-again salvation. He understood how human frailties defeated us, and how miraculously faith, love, family, work, and music redeemed us. It wasn't until the day he died, on that perfectly clear, crisp Friday, September 12, 2003, that I figured out what made Johnny Cash my American hero.<p></p><p><br />Because you're mine, I walk the line. I hadn't had a drink in almost seven years. But on that day, a familiar darkness closed in and I felt myself falling back. All I wanted was to be sitting on a bar stool again. Alone, holed up at some dusty old man's gin joint, staring into the bottles on the wall, drinking. Playing Johnny Cash songs on the jukebox, gazing at that familiar mirage of salvation found at the bottom of a glass. But God had another plan. My niece called.<br /><br />"Auntie, Let's go for a ride!" Raina Mae (aka Ray Doll Hummer) sang in a rockabilly band, she sounds just like her idol, the born-again Wanda Jackson. Careening through the Bonac woods, North to Sag Harbor, Johnny Cash sang to us in that voice once described as "Locusts and Honey," praying for us through the speakers of Raina Mae's red '89 monster GMC Jimmy…<i>I hurt myself today, to see if I could feel….<br /></i><br />In 2002, after I got baptized in the crystal blue waters of Gardiner's Bay, East Hampton, my friend Anthony said, "Now that you're a Christian, Johnny Cash will be your Bob Dylan." I didn't grasp what Anthony meant until almost a year later, on the day Johnny Cash died. Anthony is a fully tattooed power lifter from the Florida Panhandle, an atheist. But he was so broken by Cash's death, he said, "I think I'm gonna call my Mama today." <br /><br />Like Bob Dylan, Johnny Cash is someone who's words make us feel a little less alone, with their equally creepy voices-- alternately singing, crying, ranting, and begging us to be merciful and righteous. Both Dylan and Cash have loved God in their own way. They have reached out for light and brought back what they found in the cold wilderness. June helped Johnny through an early recovery and then she walked with him, arm in arm, right up to Jesus Christ. Dylan's startling born-again embrace of the Jewish Rabbi from Nazareth and his subsequent "Baal T'shuva" return to Judaism confused his fans--from Yeshiva boys to lefty agnostics, atheists and secular humanists. Either way, both men managed to transport us to higher ground.<br /><br />As Anthony explained, where Dylan has traditionally ministered to well-educated, alienated intellectual, urban audiences, Cash served Los Olvidados of rural America---the truckers, farm workers, nickel & dimed country moms, hapless convicts, honky-tonk habitués. Both men hurled us into the dark caverns of the soul, exploring both existential terror and social misery. They've exposed our collective lies and soothed our psychic wounds. Each has understood that faith is a difficult, non-rational, haphazard, solitary process. <br /><br />And this I command thee: to love one another. Where Dylan's road to salvation lies in the human connection, in the possibility of engagement, Cash's resides in a living, loving God, in the Lord Jesus Christ. But, my dear brothers and sisters, we are obligated either way. Whether we think of the body of Christ as a socially constructed reflection of the body social, or the body social as the body of Christ incarnadine, we all do have to serve somebody.</p><p><br />An earlier version of this essay appeared in <i>First of the Month</i>, New York, Winter 2004, Volume VI, Issue 1.<br /><br /></p>Dr. Donna Gaineshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18372708080654645746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14868529.post-79801191843993398022023-01-03T16:34:00.003-05:002023-01-05T16:48:28.408-05:00Scenes from a Marriage: Notes From a Musically Fractured Relationship<p class="MsoNormal"> </p><p class="MsoNormal"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2VexC5MeKGtO_xvGx0nxo0tzjIrNFIaCqFFev323ZykGxKlo0WaOlOLtauBTvtAhpEeSW5sSYt7rdVlR9FhrIOIqnUkbqLLnLpcvlTnuq3jBhP0nmRTtK6RrSYNj7jhgh0A2qDMmMQxDQ8NefwG0Lt0WEmUhU6SaFcssQ5SxBKpCAW7EEKC8/s150/1977_40446808_o-150x150.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="150" data-original-width="150" height="224" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2VexC5MeKGtO_xvGx0nxo0tzjIrNFIaCqFFev323ZykGxKlo0WaOlOLtauBTvtAhpEeSW5sSYt7rdVlR9FhrIOIqnUkbqLLnLpcvlTnuq3jBhP0nmRTtK6RrSYNj7jhgh0A2qDMmMQxDQ8NefwG0Lt0WEmUhU6SaFcssQ5SxBKpCAW7EEKC8/w224-h224/1977_40446808_o-150x150.jpg" width="224" /></a></div><p></p><p class="MsoNormal">In the early days of punk my boyfriend “Nick” outlawed my
music. Back then, the rules of the scene were as rigid as “correct thought”
under North Korean Communism. Nick sang in a band playing Max’s, CBGB,
Continental and similar NY rocker strongholds where dress codes and taste
cultures were strictly imposed. Following the NYC orthodoxies of Lou Reed, Nick
hated anything from California.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In 1978,
when we met, that meant no Doors, Grateful Dead, Jefferson Airplane or hippie
music of any type could be rotated in a New York home. Punk fundamentalist Johnny
Ramone famously outlawed music in a blues field and broke the hegemony of the
lead guitar. As the age of Disco coopted styles, venues, and sound systems
across the land, there had to be law and order. Otherwise our scene would have
died out---drowned out in the high tides of New Wave.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Long before the riot grrrls redefined music on their own
terms, Nick bullied the turntable and I let him because that’s what women did. After
all, he was a musician, I was a social worker, what did I know? Thanks to him,
I immersed myself in the NY Dolls, the Senders, Dead Boys, Dictators, and
Johnny Thunders Heartbreakers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We shared
a holy love of all NYC’s finest bands and we still do.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But that changed by the late 1980’s; Nick
gave up around the time Metallica, Slayer and Motorhead entered my life.
Dismissing my bands as “goons” he retaliated with his idiotic singer
songwriters until I interviewed Stephen Malkmus of Pavement for <i>Rolling
Stone</i> just to make the peace. </p>
<p class="MsoNormal">During our long life together, Nick has forced me to endure
Morrissey concerts, lengthy monologues about Freedy Johnston, Elvis Costello, and
Rufus Wainright. I learned to love them too, but it was always a one-way street.
So I got back at him in the only way I could--- by embracing death metal. By
1992 I was managing Pyrexia, slamming my way through Suffocation, publishing devotional
essays for the <i>Voice</i> on the “Spirituality of Death.” Instead of latter
day boomer date night at the Waldos, I <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>joined
my Gen X pals (and my lover, Jack Daniel’s) at AC/DC, Iron Maiden, and Sabbath
shows while Nick buried himself in his art. Rammstein, Ministry, Test Dept.,
Butthole Surfers <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>we were able to fine
some common ground, but by the 1990’s my musical conflicts with Nick were the
least of my problems. </p>
<p class="MsoNormal">It was war all the time once the flannel hordes of grunge emerged
victorious, <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>displacing my precious metal.
But the noise brilliance of Mudhoney, the Melvins, Flipper and Nirvana ultimately
led me to a change of heart. And because grunge emerged from the same airspace as
my lord and savior Jimi Hendrix, I found forgiveness. I was ultimately grateful
to the Seattle kids for anointing the Ramones as their Godfathers. My war ended
in 1996, with members of <span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Soundgarden, Rancid,
and Pearl Jam's joining the Ramones </span>onstage at their last-ever USA show
at t<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">he Palace in Los Angeles, California on
August 6, 1996. And Motorhead’s Lemmy was there too, R.A.M.O.N.E.S. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">And secretly, I liked Nick’s singer-songwriters and
appreciated his critics taste in music while he remains baffled by my belief
that Freebird should be our National Anthem, and Stairway to Heaven, our somber,
sacred hymn. Forty-five years later, we are still working out our musical,
artistic, spiritual, and political differences. For Christmas I got him LCD
Soundsystem’s treasured 2007 Sound of Silver. He got me a subscription to
Spotify and a pair of SONY headphones, so he doesn’t have to hear my goons.</p><p class="MsoNormal"> </p><p class="MsoNormal"></p><br /> Donna Gaines, 12/2022<br /><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal"> </p>
<p><style>@font-face
{font-family:"Cambria Math";
panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:roman;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:3 0 0 0 1 0;}@font-face
{font-family:Calibri;
panose-1:2 15 5 2 2 2 4 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:swiss;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:-536859905 -1073732485 9 0 511 0;}p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal
{mso-style-unhide:no;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
margin:0in;
margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;
mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri;
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}.MsoChpDefault
{mso-style-type:export-only;
mso-default-props:yes;
font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;
mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri;
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}div.WordSection1
{page:WordSection1;}</style></p>Dr. Donna Gaineshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18372708080654645746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14868529.post-70318172691371581472023-01-03T16:26:00.005-05:002023-01-03T17:36:40.380-05:00 Meditations on the Presentation of Self : But What Should I Wear to Work?<br /><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">In 2013 I
accepted a full-time faculty position teaching human services and social
science courses at Mentoring University, a unique public institution that
specializes in adult learning. Professors are called <i>mentors</i>—experts in
their field who work one-to-one with adults. We don’t call them students, they
are <i>adult learners</i>. Mentors are there to advise on course selections, co-design
their degree plans and serve as advocates. Up till then, I had taught
occasionally in NYC universities, invited by faculty administrators familiar
with my work, I was asked to develop courses in youth and music studies. And
then behold, I was doing a new thing: I had a straight job, a salary, an
office, a job title, I was officially middle class. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">As I set
about absorbing new technologies; the pedagogic, historical and philosophical
underpinnings of mentorship and navigating our organizational structure, I had
entered a new language game, learning through orientation, training,
consultation and supervision.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But something
else was happening, I was immersed in a socialization process. Informally,
serendipitously, through observation, imitation, interaction and hands-on
experience I was becoming someone else.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Socialization into any new community or
subculture requires the newbie to observe, intuit, practice and eventually
internalize the ways of the group. At some point, I understood that the norms,
values, behaviors, linguistics, roles and rituals of the College’s mentoring
culture would become part of me. But one thing continued to baffle me: What was
I supposed to wear to work?</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Situated
somewhere between bohemia, the creative class and the professional-managerial
class, traditional academe offers a mosh pit of sartorial reference points.
When we imagine the professor-as-performer, a variety of social types (and
stereotypes) will come to mind: tweedy bearded sage, post-punk intellectual,
earth mother, urban-activist scholar, disheveled bookworm, post-feminist,
queer-positive, corporate knowledge broker.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This question of mentor-wear began gnawing at me at my job-talk
presentation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I noted a wide range of
styling.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Yes, I
wore a dress, something I do only for weddings, funerals, or court appearances.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I needed to look approachable <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">and </i>professional.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But the community organizer or disaster
relief worker will not dress anything like the hospital administrator or
clinical social worker.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Once I was hired
at Mentor University I continued ruminating over my image. I knew I couldn’t be
everything to everyone. On top of that, it was mid-July with very few students
on site, everyone was dressed in casual summer wear. And still, I had no clue.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">At the New
Mentor Orientation my colleagues mixed it up with suits, ties, dresses, pumps,
pearls, jeans, frocks and Dockers. One new mentor even wore a leather jacket,
which I found comforting, given my New York rocker girl past.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now a Long
Island water woman, I wore my traditional surfy summer regalia: a neatly
tailored but boldly colored hand dyed sarong from Bali with a pressed cotton
shirt and sandals. Hedging my bets, I dressed it all up with a little makeup
and silver jewelry. Even in a 90-degree heat wave, I fretted, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Should I have worn stockings?</i> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">As part of
our orientation, we met with the college president, casually dressed in
sandals, a simple summer skirt and top, neat and efficient.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But I was no closer to resolving my
existential crisis. On the surface, I feared my concerns could seem frivolous,
ditzy, even a little narcissistic. I dared not discuss them with anyone. As I
obsessed over my wardrobe options, I remembered the work of sociologist Erving
Goffman--what we wear as social actors on the world stage is a serious
scholarly question he tackled in 1959, in <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">The
Presentation of Self in Everyday Life</i>. Goffman argued the artifacts we
select to represent us communicate who we are and what we care about. Our
choices are loaded with coded meaning; they tell other people how we handle the
raw materials of social existence. Our individual clothing styles, make-up,
hair, amulets, scents or shoes – the artifacts of self-adornment – communicate
our social truth. The presentation of self is a dialogical process; a
conversation we hold with others. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">To the
critical imagination, the politics of presentation of self become even more
crucial. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Are we styling for conformity
or for dissent?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Does the presentation of
self convey our embrace of dominant ideologies or symbolic resistance? What is
our relationship to power, authority, to repressive or coercive regimes?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Where do we situate ourselves in the societal
landscape as knowledge workers – educators, scholars, intellectuals or
activists? Whether we dress up or down, outward presentations of self
underscore who we are – articulating our values and beliefs, as well as our
position of class, race, sex, status and power.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Covertly or overtly, we set our agenda upfront through the choices we
make about what we show the world.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We
talk the talk and walk the walk. There is theory and there is practice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A sociological imagination will overthink
these things until the head explodes.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">In his
1979 study, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Subculture: The Meaning of
Style</i>,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Dick Hebdige examined British
youth in punk regalia, situating late-1970s cultural rebellion in terms of
economic inequality, class culture and generational disenfranchisement.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Teenage
Wasteland</i>, my study of a late 1980’s quadruple youth suicide, I examined
how outcast working-class youth on the streets of an “upper poor” New Jersey
town subverted the status hierarchy of their suburban high school. They fought
back symbolically, by appropriating the very language games calculated to
degrade and demean them. Much like disenfranchised African American (N word),
Riot grrrls (C word) and LGBTQ youth (Q word), the “burnouts” of Bergenfield
reclaimed their label for themselves, proclaiming themselves “burnt and
proud.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They transformed a marginalizing
and debasing social status into a source of empowerment, pride and defiance.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">We recall
the defiant seas of hoodies, as outraged Americans protested the 2012 killing
of 17 year-old Trayvon Martin. Another youth of color profiled as a menace to
society: male, black, just another gangsta in a hooded sweatshirt. We may also recall
the shirtless feminist “slut” protest marches of young women outraged by
charges that their “sexy” clothing choices – not the social relations of
patriarchy – incited rape.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Such cultural
politics are played out on a daily basis on street corners and in high schools,
where young people fight to be who they are visually and ideologically.
Cultural politics also are played out in the workplace. Hippie, and later, pomo
and punk professors have typically wore their politics on their sleeves, as did
the 1980s corporate university zombie scholars of the Reagan era and female
academics “presumed incompetent” demanding to be taken seriously – intellectually
and economically.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Every
occupation has a unique culture of its own, so I drew on my early experiences
as a social worker in a street-based youth project using my car and the deli as
my office; as a family service agency group worker organizing mothers of
children at risk, often meeting with them on street corners. Investigating
child maltreatment through the Child Protective Services unit of the Department
of Social Services, and later as a program evaluator, I always dressed for the
action--street, court, community center, home visit, shelter, jail, office. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">But for
most of my working life, I’ve been a writer—journalist, author, professor,
consultant, and later, a holistic healer. So little time, so much to do, to
learn, by the time I hit Mentor University, my nontraditional,
interdisciplinary, “flexible psyche” was flooded with so many possibilities I
was beginning to feel anomic. With such wide and often competing sets of ingrained
professional ethics, norms, values, agendas and dress codes, I was totally
confused.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Paulo Freire has argued that
without a sense of identity there can be no real struggle. We can’t win the day
if we don’t know who we are, but who was I now? </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">I had now
entered into what Alvin Gouldner described as a reflexive process. As a
community activist, I’m dressed in comfortable, durable clothing that will stay
clean no matter where the day goes. As a social worker in family court, or an
expert witness in youth violence testifying in a death penalty trial, I’m
aiming to look as “normal” as possible---a look my musician parents would have
readily dismissed as “real square.” Clean-cut, non-descript, I’ll cover the
tattoos, remove the multiple ear piercings, comb my hair straight back, soften
the make-up – no distractions. Nothing to sabotage the mission at hand.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">As a
visiting professor teaching sociology of youth courses at Barnard, a women’s
college of Columbia University, I always <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">dressed
</i>for school, except on Youth Subcultures Day when we did a “show and tell”
of our cultural affiliations. For this event, students wore everything from
their sorority colors to sports gear; every music subculture from Goth to ballet
was represented. It was 1996, I <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>represented
with a sacred Ramones T-shirt and a black leather Harley jacket, books and many
amulets. Parents attended, and students brought dates. Beyond imparting a
critical understanding of youth in society and the importance of subculture, I
hoped to offer a pro-sex feminist statement of power and pleasure, of
independent women sharing in social and economic equality, scholarly women who
loved ideas and hoped to bring some light into the world. After class, students
usually stayed late to discuss the finer points of Karl Mannheim, Erik Erikson
or Margaret Mead. And then they’d shyly smile and say, “Dr. Gaines, I just love
your eye make-up!!”</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">As a music
writer, a street reporter investigating underground subcultures and scenes for
the <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Village Voice</i>, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Spin</i> or <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Rolling Stone</i>, I opted to let it all hang out, with purpose: jeans,
leather, scruffy boots and visible tattoos. Dressing in my “after-hours”
clothes provided a smoother entrée into subterranean, deviant, even criminal
settings.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As I reflected on mentor-wear,
I realized I’ve always dressed with an agenda, communicating the
interconnectedness of self with society. What I decided to wear on any given
day is part of the job. I trusted my instincts. Now my new job was challenging
me to formulate a new professional identity, organically and intentionally. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">As Goffman
showed, “impression management” is calculated to communicate something to other
people about who we are, where we come from and what matters to us. It can be
purposeful, coercive, manipulative, patronizing, empowering, nurturing,
condescending or respectful.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I wondered too, if any of this really mattered
to the adult learner – a parent, worker, a community member already established
in a life world of their own. The certified addictions counselor, seasoned
child welfare worker, church pastor, ocean activist, nurse’s aid,
transportation operator, homemaker, police officer, youth outreach worker – adult
learners already embrace a set of occupational and ideological values. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Adult
learners may already be socialized into professional norms, workplace cultures,
roles and rituals. Service to the greater good is altruistic, spiritual and
practical – it’s all about <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">we</i>, not <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">me.</i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Unlike teaching formal sociology, or mentoring aspiring young writers in
music journalism, or working with clients in my holistic healing practice, did
I even want to wear my cultural politics on my sleeves or walls?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Fall term was
looming, I had to go shopping! Desperate for closure, I began reaching out to
my colleagues. “I dress to the standard of my wife letting me out the door,” said
Ed, a mentor in business. The basic plan was to wear something to work that
wouldn’t be embarrassing. OK, I could relate to that. I had lost most of my
“nice” clothes in Hurricane Sandy. And I live in a surf community. But
sweatshirts, jeans, T-shirts and neoprene wetsuits weren’t going to work---I
had to wear something fairly normal. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Mentor Mindy,
a poet found it interesting to think about her couture as “work clothes.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“What does one “wear” to ‘teach’?” she asked.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Being a mentor is so nuanced, much like the
compilation of one’s self. If dress is an expression of one’s personal
aesthetic, I’d say I choose clothes in the way I try to choose words and
gestures – comfortable but respectful of my environment and associates, never
too formal and occasionally accented in an eccentric way, apparel that connects
to who I am, rather than who I should be.” Mindy’s mentoring wisdom suggested
to me that in order to connect with students in a meaningful way, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">being myself</i> was the key element.
Mentorship is a co-creative collaboration based on mutual respect and positive
regard. It gets deep, it has to be true and real.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">Mentor Ann,
an historian said “I observed a wide array of attitudes about how to conduct
oneself and dress as a professor during my graduate school experiences and
believe that a very casual attitude does not reflect a sense of authority or professionalism.
During my time at M.U. I have tried to present and conduct myself as a
professional and believe that doing so enhances my ability to relate to
students and colleagues.” She added, “I never wear jeans to work!” </span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">For two
generations of academics, jeans had become shifting signifiers – anti-establishment
(1960s), designer chic (1970s), anti-corporate (1980s), alternative,
gender-flaked (1990s)—but what do they mean now? <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For Ann, jeans were a sign of disrespect,
“While many industries and offices have moved toward more casual dress, I have
made the decision not to wear jeans to work as a message to my students,
colleagues and coworkers that they all matter! I believe that dressing
professionally demonstrates a sense of care and concern, not just about my
appearance, but also about my attitude and commitment to my work. I am at the
office to teach and advise my students and present the face of Mentoring
University to my community. I believe that my appearance reflects my job and
responsibilities, and I always try to present myself as professionally as
possible!”</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;">I finally
realized it didn’t really matter what I wore, as long as it wasn’t bad enough
to upset Mentor Ed’s wife or feel like an out of body experience.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As long as it showed respect for the school, the
people who work here and our adult learners, I could wear whatever I wanted. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I could rock the sarongs through the summer
season, punk down for my music studies students, roll up my sleeves for community
organizing, suit up with pumps and a blazer for the social work profession. As
I imagined myself communing with my students, embracing social theory, mapping
out intervention strategies, advocacy agendas and exploring counseling skills,
I realized the choices for mentor-wear were as limitless as the curricula at
Mentoring University. I could wear something different every day because every
day was different. Ten years later, I’m still here.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif;"> </span></p>
<p><style>@font-face
{font-family:"MS Mincho";
panose-1:2 2 6 9 4 2 5 8 3 4;
mso-font-alt:"MS 明朝";
mso-font-charset:128;
mso-generic-font-family:modern;
mso-font-pitch:fixed;
mso-font-signature:-536870145 1791491579 18 0 131231 0;}@font-face
{font-family:"Cambria Math";
panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:roman;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:3 0 0 0 1 0;}@font-face
{font-family:Cambria;
panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:roman;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:-536870145 1073743103 0 0 415 0;}@font-face
{font-family:"\@MS Mincho";
panose-1:2 2 6 9 4 2 5 8 3 4;
mso-font-charset:128;
mso-generic-font-family:modern;
mso-font-pitch:fixed;
mso-font-signature:-536870145 1791491579 134217746 0 131231 0;}p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal
{mso-style-unhide:no;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
margin:0in;
margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:"Cambria",serif;
mso-fareast-font-family:"MS Mincho";
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-fareast-language:JA;}.MsoChpDefault
{mso-style-type:export-only;
mso-default-props:yes;
font-size:11.0pt;
mso-ansi-font-size:11.0pt;
mso-bidi-font-size:11.0pt;
font-family:"Cambria",serif;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-fareast-font-family:"MS Mincho";
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;}div.WordSection1
{page:WordSection1;}</style></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUE7w4wBcRYzLCBoYdRTx5B0C6IT0SEszDiC-eQpOwwZBH7yfbSfYyElA1MvNMnl3fL1NY6w31aXee3MhQSIg0mdm0mbsrBfj2JG1l4QXBhPTEPiG4AEMd8RubcYayFM8IyqEx8hzqjA09DrZl-LK5bo-qpekWolvwzT5few8sYTX2daZ3_-c/s1122/800px-Donna_Gaines.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1122" data-original-width="800" height="221" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUE7w4wBcRYzLCBoYdRTx5B0C6IT0SEszDiC-eQpOwwZBH7yfbSfYyElA1MvNMnl3fL1NY6w31aXee3MhQSIg0mdm0mbsrBfj2JG1l4QXBhPTEPiG4AEMd8RubcYayFM8IyqEx8hzqjA09DrZl-LK5bo-qpekWolvwzT5few8sYTX2daZ3_-c/w157-h221/800px-Donna_Gaines.jpg" width="157" /></a></div><p></p><p>Donna Gaines, 12/2022</p><p><br /></p><p>
</p><p class="MsoNormal"><i><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 11.0pt;">An earlier version of <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>this essay appeared in <span style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">All About Mentoring,</span></span></i><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 11.0pt;"> a publication of SUNY Empire State College, </span><i><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 11.0pt;">Issue 44, pp28</span></i></p>
<p><style>@font-face
{font-family:"Cambria Math";
panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:roman;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:-536870145 1107305727 0 0 415 0;}@font-face
{font-family:Times;
panose-1:0 0 5 0 0 0 0 2 0 0;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:auto;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:-536870145 1342185562 0 0 415 0;}p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal
{mso-style-unhide:no;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
margin:0in;
margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:10.0pt;
font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;
mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-fareast-language:ZH-CN;}.MsoChpDefault
{mso-style-type:export-only;
mso-default-props:yes;
font-size:10.0pt;
mso-ansi-font-size:10.0pt;
mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;}div.WordSection1
{page:WordSection1;}</style></p>Dr. Donna Gaineshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18372708080654645746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14868529.post-37972409513489022562023-01-03T16:16:00.004-05:002023-01-03T16:21:24.071-05:00Rethinking Thanksgiving: A Grateful Heart is a Happy Heart<p>
</p><br /><span face=""Arial",sans-serif"> </span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3-wcvYfmR75MLIh02gU87EpGmed_ugjW37TuRxAyLwNa7M93CUcS0IagPNKcNYg5McSKpSWwMz2P2SzMghQNPTdU7lTALJjPwO26I-fQ_kyVoTGLk7tS45_79UNzUnYWmOwNGux0k39zC-j1O63tN3iOVwN3Wk1W-n0nhmrMKaB3t-4Tq3v0/s156/Picture1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="156" data-original-width="156" height="259" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3-wcvYfmR75MLIh02gU87EpGmed_ugjW37TuRxAyLwNa7M93CUcS0IagPNKcNYg5McSKpSWwMz2P2SzMghQNPTdU7lTALJjPwO26I-fQ_kyVoTGLk7tS45_79UNzUnYWmOwNGux0k39zC-j1O63tN3iOVwN3Wk1W-n0nhmrMKaB3t-4Tq3v0/w259-h259/Picture1.jpg" width="259" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif">The Holidays: Ugh! </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif">The hype, false
promises, nostalgia, expectations and longing come crashing down in a sugar
coma. My childhood memories of Thanksgiving were great---I grew up in an
extended family of musicians so the holiday gathering was another opportunity
to jam. Lavish feasting, gin, jazz and swing overshadowed the darker side of
Thanksgiving in America which I came to view as a state sanctioned pogrom for
turkeys, a celebration of brutal colonialism, slaughter and betrayal. Repulsed
by the legacy of bloodshed, I believed any culture that gleefully produces a
“turducken,”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>stuffing a chicken into a
duck and then a turkey is doomed to fail. Then, one day, something changed. I
decided to celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday as a Day of Gratitude. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif">From 1964 to
1997 I enjoyed a slamming career as <i>Donna, cross-addicted</i>. Though I
enjoyed icy summer cocktails and hot fall toddies the party really kicked in
around Thanksgiving, careening non-stop through St. Patty’s Day until it as
time for a refreshing season of vodka-cranberry smoothies and valium. For many
years after my last dance, I shivered with fear. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Clean and sober, from November to March each
year I still felt that darkness, the soul chill, sorrow, a hatred of life. The residual
doom of late stage addiction crept through me each Thanksgiving like cold
death, reminding me what it was like, then.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif">Addiction is a
disease of isolation, a solitary confinement of the spirit that tortures and
kills its victims slowly. The profane substance that promises easy redemption slowly
takes over leaving the shell of our humanity enslaved, alone, and needing <i>more.</i>
During the holidays, the addict’s hellscape of anger, loneliness, shame and
fear often comes to a rolling boil. It’s a dangerous time for my people, but it
can also be the prelude to a miracle. It’s primetime for the fishers of men and
women, the survivors who reach out each day to drowning souls only God and the
devil can see.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif">The Day of
Gratitude kicks off a full-blown season of love and service. On11/26/22, the Friday
after the traditional feast with the musician family I “married” into,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I spent a Day of Gratitude celebrating
Alcoholics Anonymous co-founder Bill Wilson’s 123<sup>rd</sup> birthday along
with over 600 people zooming in from Italy, Egypt, the U.K., Africa and all
over the USA. After a tour of Wilson House, our hosts—all volunteers, <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>had organized a Gratitude Meeting. Where a
closed meeting is for addicts only, this was an open one, for everyone; family
and friends, people in recovery, students, the curious, the ones folks hope
will keep coming back.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif">Wilson House is
recovery mecca for alcoholics who make a pilgrimage to the</span><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">
birthplace and childhood home of the founder of Alcoholics Anonymous in East
Dorset, Vermont. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, anyone can
visit, rent a room, peruse archival collections, drink coffee, buy recovery
artifacts, </span><span face=""Arial",sans-serif">visit Bill’s gravesite
and Lois Wilson’s too—his wife and the founder of Al-Anon. Comb through epic memorabilia
and enjoy sober community and educational programs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><a href="https://www.wilsonhouse.org/"><span style="color: blue; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">https://www.wilsonhouse.org/</span></a></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif"><span style="color: blue; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif"><span style="color: blue; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilCOhKZ-5c6w5GcXI3G_GuM-_pUGxMCqoIUbzSLmynXERMXaRgoOLt4hAT5WHeBA6rH_TDB-A2lbN9UcK7K4vW-KaCdNLjninTejsyS-0ofN-rjUg_51gvY2Xn__ZYKq8TrKLbhx1dCnhogglhy85O3ZtI-N4bVrKZ2RH0YbQWAZypfVl8cp4/s304/Bwilson.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="304" data-original-width="243" height="304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilCOhKZ-5c6w5GcXI3G_GuM-_pUGxMCqoIUbzSLmynXERMXaRgoOLt4hAT5WHeBA6rH_TDB-A2lbN9UcK7K4vW-KaCdNLjninTejsyS-0ofN-rjUg_51gvY2Xn__ZYKq8TrKLbhx1dCnhogglhy85O3ZtI-N4bVrKZ2RH0YbQWAZypfVl8cp4/s1600/Bwilson.jpg" width="243" /></a></div><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif" style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Aldous Huxley called Alcoholics Anonymous founder Bill
Wilson the greatest social architect of the 20<sup>th</sup> century. </span><span face=""Arial",sans-serif">Following the inception of A.A. in 1935,
other anonymous fellowships followed, modeled on the 12 Step program—narcotics,
gambling, food, crystal meth, love, sex, codependency. The website posts this
disclaimer “The Wilson House is not affiliated with Alcoholics Anonymous or any
other sect, denomination or religion.” </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif">Live with an
attitude of gratitude—I’m grateful for the gift of life, for the people I love,
for waking up in a clean, safe place, with food, heat and hot water, for my
car, our cats, the kids on my street, the ocean, the garden, for everything
under the sun, and for Love itself, always present, called or called.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span face=""Arial",sans-serif"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i><span face=""Arial",sans-serif">May goodness
and mercy follow you, all the days of your life.</span></i></p><p class="MsoNormal"><i><span face=""Arial",sans-serif"> </span></i></p><p class="MsoNormal"><i><span face=""Arial",sans-serif">Donna Gaines, 11/2022 <br /></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i> </i></p>
<p><style>@font-face
{font-family:"Cambria Math";
panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:roman;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:3 0 0 0 1 0;}@font-face
{font-family:Calibri;
panose-1:2 15 5 2 2 2 4 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:swiss;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:-536859905 -1073732485 9 0 511 0;}p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal
{mso-style-unhide:no;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
margin:0in;
margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;
mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri;
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}.MsoChpDefault
{mso-style-type:export-only;
mso-default-props:yes;
font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;
mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri;
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}div.WordSection1
{page:WordSection1;}</style> <br /></p>Dr. Donna Gaineshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18372708080654645746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14868529.post-17721610842019232342023-01-03T15:38:00.007-05:002023-01-05T12:26:12.764-05:00My Brother and Me<p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEialH-ZPYoSL8Y3gOLmkym7RpIvy0j61O1ORf5DoCq_yJB_gWLU1giOyHjAQZecaxOJbUNPnLinlM9beMG2gAHohngm8vUh0ZvyY3HtZMk8C0cv1xqq8MB2P28HrUedTUAX0Vu58ei2uCYxqpnAXCgk5L7ZRyo9T_btCcJzfuUJxe3uJkL91sI/s1366/73ca0fbf-7dce-4f02-b651-57fb9a0a8cfa_1366x768.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1366" height="209" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEialH-ZPYoSL8Y3gOLmkym7RpIvy0j61O1ORf5DoCq_yJB_gWLU1giOyHjAQZecaxOJbUNPnLinlM9beMG2gAHohngm8vUh0ZvyY3HtZMk8C0cv1xqq8MB2P28HrUedTUAX0Vu58ei2uCYxqpnAXCgk5L7ZRyo9T_btCcJzfuUJxe3uJkL91sI/w372-h209/73ca0fbf-7dce-4f02-b651-57fb9a0a8cfa_1366x768.jpg" width="372" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="color: black;">Arthur Gaines married my mother Betty and adopted me when I was
three. I called him Daddy. When I was five, my parents took me to visit Betsy
and her family, she was an adopted child. They chose this context to tell me I
was also an adopted child, that Artie chose me to be his daughter, as Betsy’s
parents had chosen her. We were loved, wanted, and safe. To hedge my bets, I
served Artie a dessert dish, red Jello cubes with whipped cream. “I want you to
be glad you chose me.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As a child approaching
latency, I would gaze at my Daddy longingly, thinking if he died, I would die too.
He passed away when I was 13. I swallowed my grief with booze and didn’t stop
until January 26, 1997.</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="color: black;"> </span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="color: black;">Artie had a son from a previous marriage, </span><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="background: rgb(253, 226, 147); color: #3c4043;">Michael</span><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="color: black;">, born in 1943. The
divorce had been brutal, his ex-wife had trained their young child to kick and
spit at Artie. Daddy had already lost his father and his two brothers to heart
failure and he had a heart condition, so he backed off and eventually, he let
go. Sometimes that’s what trauma survivors do, hiding from more pain,
hoping to stay in balance. </span><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="background: rgb(253, 226, 147); color: #3c4043;">Michael</span><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="color: black;"> was raised never knowing that Artie was his biological
father. He found out the truth when he enlisted in the Army and was told his
legal name was </span><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="background: rgb(253, 226, 147); color: #3c4043;">Michael</span><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="color: black;"> Gaines.</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="color: black;"> </span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="color: black;">Shocked, around the time the Beatles broke, </span><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="background: rgb(253, 226, 147); color: #3c4043;">Michael</span><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="color: black;"> went to Artie’s
workplace hoping to meet his bio dad, but he chickened out. He looked inside
the showroom of Gaines Motors and walked away. When he returned from the
service, Artie had already passed away. Michael was raised by a devoted
father he idolized, but Artie had never severed his parental rights,
making </span><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="background: rgb(253, 226, 147); color: #3c4043;">Michael</span><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="color: black;"> the closest thing I’ll ever have to a brother, albeit
estranged, and unknown.</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="color: black;"> </span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="color: black;">I met </span><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="background: rgb(253, 226, 147); color: #3c4043;">Michael</span><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="color: black;"> and his wife only once, around 1969. The very sight of him
brought me to tears, he looked just like Mr. Gaines, the kind, handsome, yet
distant and detached father who gave me a home, his name and kept me safe. I
had always hoped to reconnect with </span><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="background: rgb(253, 226, 147); color: #3c4043;">Michael</span><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="color: black;"> but couldn’t find him.</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="color: black;"> </span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="color: black;"> In 2010, </span><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="background: rgb(253, 226, 147); color: #3c4043;">Michael</span><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="color: black;">’s son contacted me to find out about the Gaines family medical
history, he had young children and knew nothing about his grandfather. The men
in the Gaines family all died young of heart failure, Betty & Artie never
had kids for fear of this family curse. After his son gave me his contact info,
I called </span><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="background: rgb(253, 226, 147); color: #3c4043;">Michael</span><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="color: black;">, and we had a lively, fun, deep, and bittersweet six-hour phone
conversation. I discovered </span><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="background: rgb(253, 226, 147); color: #3c4043;">Michael</span><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="color: black;"> was an attorney, had five kids, and like me, he loved
firearms, like me, he felt estranged and deeply wounded from multiple childhood
trauma. I had found my brother.</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="color: black;"> </span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="color: black;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="color: black;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlTL--4e456AOka_NeqW9tims1Czc7IEtKlL7Mye6PCQwFAbuJTbI2n6QrVl8NlZts1BPusfpycWQTK82B9MG0U_6mAz1CxNXy9rRx8lIJp5b9FRfAh0NTyIL-ZPTj66wDcqI6Nmy6sl0J-0F9JhXlK6HA5e0FbrfkyzO7KVRCJZN_IaWtV8A/s152/927db89e-abd9-4ef7-9811-23ec852f84ac_117x152.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="152" data-original-width="117" height="152" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlTL--4e456AOka_NeqW9tims1Czc7IEtKlL7Mye6PCQwFAbuJTbI2n6QrVl8NlZts1BPusfpycWQTK82B9MG0U_6mAz1CxNXy9rRx8lIJp5b9FRfAh0NTyIL-ZPTj66wDcqI6Nmy6sl0J-0F9JhXlK6HA5e0FbrfkyzO7KVRCJZN_IaWtV8A/s1600/927db89e-abd9-4ef7-9811-23ec852f84ac_117x152.jpg" width="117" /></a></span></div><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="color: black;"> </span><p></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="color: black;">We made plans for a family reunion upstate. The week of the
reunion, my de facto mother-in-law and spiritual teacher went
into hospice care. I explained that I had to reschedule. Emotional scars and
miscommunications ensued; </span><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="background: rgb(253, 226, 147); color: #3c4043;">Michael</span><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="color: black;"> felt rejected, hurt, and I, with zero tolerance for any
family bullshit, walked away. In 2020, </span><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="background: rgb(253, 226, 147); color: #3c4043;">Michael</span><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="color: black;"> died of heart
failure.</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="color: black;"> </span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="color: black;">Last year, as Venus went Retrograde, and Jupiter and Neptune
transited to me natal Pisces/8thHouse, I was contacted by one of Michael’s daughters.
She had read my books<u> </u>in College and wondered if Mr. Gaines was her
grandfather. We connected by phone, and Facebook, making plans to reactivate
the family reunion. What prompted her to search for me was a dream she had of her
late father </span><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="background: rgb(253, 226, 147); color: #3c4043;">Michael</span><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="color: black;"> urging her to find Arthur Gaines. She’s a behavioral analyst
with psychic, mediumship gifts and an interest in healing. All four nieces and one nephew live in Westchester. Arthur Gaines was a Pisces, so
was </span><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="background: rgb(253, 226, 147); color: #3c4043;">Michae<span style="color: black;">l</span></span><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="color: black;"> and all his children. Due to Covid 19, we still haven’t
met in person, but I’m now connected to all of them through social media. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I get to see their young children grow up in
photos, Artie’s grandchildren and great-grandchildren, a legacy of happy, beautiful
kids. </span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><i><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="color: black;">In time, God makes all things whole and new.</span></i></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><i><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="color: black;"> </span></i></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><i><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="color: black;"></span></i></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="color: black;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1IOWQCO_MOhuDVP-8EBrQ7k1MGmPJ3LHncOdwloTIJUBP2ZAFyMTe1MCV-n8Eoxd2v7hHbzatUmmGimMQNNyLQigpbrFY4fPHqFngMFFCmRpeibXTAIX7TBrRD99sFeVsUBp3q7wqYNdZDmgiwk6RbRhziuFQdZ6w-s-idxxLVoK_jUxNlbo/s960/FB_IMG_1645287746106.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="960" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1IOWQCO_MOhuDVP-8EBrQ7k1MGmPJ3LHncOdwloTIJUBP2ZAFyMTe1MCV-n8Eoxd2v7hHbzatUmmGimMQNNyLQigpbrFY4fPHqFngMFFCmRpeibXTAIX7TBrRD99sFeVsUBp3q7wqYNdZDmgiwk6RbRhziuFQdZ6w-s-idxxLVoK_jUxNlbo/s320/FB_IMG_1645287746106.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></i></div><i><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="color: black;"><br /> </span></i><p></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><i><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="color: black;"> </span></i></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><i><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="color: black;">Donna Gaines, 11/2022 </span></i><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="color: black;"></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"> </p>
<p><style>@font-face
{font-family:"Cambria Math";
panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:roman;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:-536870145 1107305727 0 0 415 0;}@font-face
{font-family:Calibri;
panose-1:2 15 5 2 2 2 4 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:swiss;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:-536859905 -1073732485 9 0 511 0;}p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal
{mso-style-unhide:no;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
margin:0in;
margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;
mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri;
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}p
{mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-margin-top-alt:auto;
margin-right:0in;
mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto;
margin-left:0in;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:"Times New Roman",serif;
mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";}.MsoChpDefault
{mso-style-type:export-only;
mso-default-props:yes;
font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;
mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri;
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}div.WordSection1
{page:WordSection1;}</style></p>Dr. Donna Gaineshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18372708080654645746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14868529.post-60503305767579473432023-01-03T15:35:00.006-05:002023-01-03T16:22:20.753-05:00DIY or Die<p>
</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Garage
Art is the name of my underground studio, ugly, cold, dirty and open to the
street, it’s also where I do my gardening prep. I can’t clean, paint or plant
without music. After my battered old boom box died Uncle Raymond gave me some
early Xmas cash for a new blaster. I wanted to play cassettes, CD’s, MP3 flash
port and also Bluetooth. But they sounded like crap, so I built my own garage
sound system.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Foraging
for parts I located my vintage ‘90s Panasonic tape recorder, the one Princess
Diana uses in season 5 of the Crown. I’ve had mine since the age of print
journalism, used it to record my interviews with folks like Mister Rogers,
Beyonce, Pat Benatar, Eric Bogosian, Stephan Malkmus, Marianne Faithfull,
Howard Stern, my musician family and the hardcore, punk, thrash and metal bands
I adore. I also had a stately SONY Walkman CD abandoned to storage as the
technology evolved. Since then, my Android has carried on with a lighter,
sweeter load.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Setting
up I invoked the spirits of my engineering ancestors, Grandpa Willie and Uncle
Steve. Matrilineal geek DNA and a strong natal Saturn and Moon in Virgo gave me
an edge. In defiance of planned obsolesce I’m surrounded by ancient
artifacts---rebuilt computers, Microsoft and Apple mice, keyboards, speakers and
lots of wires. Hoarding it all because “Hey, ya never know.”</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Sadly,
my sturdy components preceeded Bluetooth and my crusty iHome speaker didn’t
have an AUX in. I live on a Barrier Island, it gets damp down below so I opted
for that Ecoxgear 20 watt waterproof speaker on sale at Costco. Scored two cute
AUX cables (in purple and teal) and a new power surge protector so I can flip
the electricity off at will. Cleaned the CD lens, swabbed the cassette tape
heads, hardwired everything and let it rip.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT2uDfUL7mtMMi29HiS3YiTkNlR8wcMJO0sFOdumSDhuMQpTt_0M_zTgCq40NWWk65b79Yc4IqpAQEFtPIpAy5Bd4dgxyrLAFT9JIXPvKi4xYVzsVHlpVjFYsMftGw3gvJz-JqBHg8PYt9ptCOWwzaX7UooT5QuLIB7qE2ai_UyE3ibWpIhPE/s875/185c5542-67fe-457a-a9ed-7d185ebd1a16_875x685.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="685" data-original-width="875" height="203" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT2uDfUL7mtMMi29HiS3YiTkNlR8wcMJO0sFOdumSDhuMQpTt_0M_zTgCq40NWWk65b79Yc4IqpAQEFtPIpAy5Bd4dgxyrLAFT9JIXPvKi4xYVzsVHlpVjFYsMftGw3gvJz-JqBHg8PYt9ptCOWwzaX7UooT5QuLIB7qE2ai_UyE3ibWpIhPE/w259-h203/185c5542-67fe-457a-a9ed-7d185ebd1a16_875x685.jpg" width="259" /></a></div><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">First
on rotation, Pyrexia’s <i>Liturgy of Impurity</i> with a sound quality clear
enough to hear the pure wizardry of those masters of death metal played on the
same tape recorder I used to interview the original band members for a series of
<i>Voice</i> articles on the genre. Then, I hit the CD’s: Flipper, Dolls,
Ramones, Mozart, and my best Palestrina and Monteverdi burns. It works if you
work it. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Dance
Party Dream 2023</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">: By Spring the kids next
door--ages 6 and 4--will be slamming to these sounds of liberty while painting
shells and planting pumpkin seeds.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"> </p>
<p><style>@font-face
{font-family:"Cambria Math";
panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:roman;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:-536870145 1107305727 0 0 415 0;}@font-face
{font-family:Calibri;
panose-1:2 15 5 2 2 2 4 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:swiss;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:-536859905 -1073732485 9 0 511 0;}p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal
{mso-style-unhide:no;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
margin:0in;
margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;
mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri;
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}.MsoChpDefault
{mso-style-type:export-only;
mso-default-props:yes;
font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;
mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri;
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}div.WordSection1
{page:WordSection1;}</style> Donna Gaines, 11/2023<br /></p>Dr. Donna Gaineshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18372708080654645746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14868529.post-67998737030175137712023-01-03T15:25:00.011-05:002023-01-05T12:52:43.764-05:00Tonight We Fight Again: Navigating the Street in the Age of Rage <p>
</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-outline-level: 1;"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 24pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-font-kerning: 18.0pt;"> </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-outline-level: 3;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiRVIlqPVVUH_XmkdQzcYFjoqJvzGW1nmYuPhZqw9yUULatsAv2VufshLzzr_ORGhaPzMPg1Zh_oDD1LuY6rx7SEpBkEQkAUaHPErLAXP5K5c_-7DRaRZ0QMugMwg_T-9Xd7InGmjYDlp8buEvrYogJH5oB17sURAWzEMQJcavisOwh8Ak8Jw/s225/Unknown.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="225" data-original-width="224" height="252" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiRVIlqPVVUH_XmkdQzcYFjoqJvzGW1nmYuPhZqw9yUULatsAv2VufshLzzr_ORGhaPzMPg1Zh_oDD1LuY6rx7SEpBkEQkAUaHPErLAXP5K5c_-7DRaRZ0QMugMwg_T-9Xd7InGmjYDlp8buEvrYogJH5oB17sURAWzEMQJcavisOwh8Ak8Jw/w251-h252/Unknown.jpeg" width="251" /></a></div><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Stomposition</span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">
was the Bully’s debut album, released in 1998. As a New York City band with
Rockaway roots, Marky Ramone thought we should meet. They were gentlemen,
smart, polite, hardworking and they held their ground. Like me, the Bullys were
baby-faced and ready to kill, so we got along. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">On
9/11, when the twin towers fell Johnny Bully, guitarist and founder, stood in
full stompostion for FDNY, for NYC, for America. He held strong until the
towers collapsed and took him out. When it was confirmed the he perished that day,
I published FF John Heffernan’s obituary in the <i>Village Voice</i> where I
had once listed the Bully’s shows at Continental and CBGB. The obit remains
posted on my website in the Shrine section along with memorial essays to other
cultural heroes—Johnny Thunders, Johnny Cash, The Ramones. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh1-6PP3TlK7zEzd4AllGx3JYPF4ZD1Fx9_IwDrxaGFYjkD1zRhcC-hKpWZAGFQB_JihsCVX3WvUhMvwE9mK9WEGt1X10RUraqXQkVAANQ2Qa1Bq2XbCI7sEwgf8Hf2t112Y17aGSBgR_a-c7JkP1eQv4fsLl1s-89lXBpFKJqlo1HJPqUjp0/s225/Unknown-2.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="225" data-original-width="225" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh1-6PP3TlK7zEzd4AllGx3JYPF4ZD1Fx9_IwDrxaGFYjkD1zRhcC-hKpWZAGFQB_JihsCVX3WvUhMvwE9mK9WEGt1X10RUraqXQkVAANQ2Qa1Bq2XbCI7sEwgf8Hf2t112Y17aGSBgR_a-c7JkP1eQv4fsLl1s-89lXBpFKJqlo1HJPqUjp0/s1600/Unknown-2.jpeg" width="225" /></a></div><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">But
it was in the Bullys 1999 album release, <i>Tonight We Fight Again</i>, </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">that I found my own personal anthem, the title track that underscores a
recalcitrant spirit with a need to kick the crap out of any person, place or
thing that hurts, me, my family, friends, community, my people, my world. A
triple Aries, with Pluto Rising trine Mars, trained to fight back by a warrior
woman mom, a combat veteran dad, a Rockaway childhood and an understanding of
the brutalities of history, I never had choice.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Like
any two-fisted NY woman of letters now living a serene, and sober life odaat,
I’m about one drink away from pure mayhem. Even now, living prayerfully
meditating, practicing Reiki, I still can’t back down. I was born fighting
back, kicking out against injustice, cruelty, fear, shame and grief. Against
childhood bullys who made me hate the world, myself, and life. Never forgive,
never forget, but still I’m trying, one day at a time. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">So
here’s how it went down. I’m a surfy senior citizen walking down the boardwalk
in my City by the Sea, the Rockaway-adjacent barrier island of Long Beach. It’s
crowded so I’m staying in my lane mindful of others, walking West towards
Rockaway when some guy—my age, maybe younger walks towards me, strident,
determined, he won’t yield right of way to me, won’t even compromise, not as a
lady or an elder. I figure if he can’t respect me as a woman, I’ll have to
discipline him as a man. So I keep on walking, I will not give, I walk right
into him. He’s assuming I’ll defer to him, move to the side, he’s expecting me
to back down, to submit, maybe even smile. After all that’s what girls do, but
I won’t<i>. No more nice girls, in re Dobbs. </i></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">I
give him my best left shoulder slam, perfected after years of body surfing in
volitile ocean waters and before that, the mosh pit. He curses at me, Yells at
me for doing exactly what he was doing, so I flip him the bird Italian style,
(hard fist to forearm) then tell him to…and I keep walking, humming the Bullys
Rockaway anthem, <i>tonight we fight again.</i> The music propels me, gives me
strength and courage, like I’ve got the Bullys in my soul. On the way back I
run into my friends, childhood buddy Tank Gallagher and his wife Janet. I recount
the fight blow by blow, because that’s culture, Rockaway style. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxngt3nFOyNneCFiKU2qN2iMrQn5LHpSOb15wpw4aNWyx0AnuM-GdtSQmt3BPYHVKsSuQveEQB-h1k2twDxDTkWxvulkbFzKLL2kra24jjL-sdYxC4HKQtZmpV95JsK7VtGwns9kMleHEAySukg5NRhE4ZI8AhTdkd8XQHRYnszpNBQXsIPog/s225/Unknown-1.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="225" data-original-width="225" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxngt3nFOyNneCFiKU2qN2iMrQn5LHpSOb15wpw4aNWyx0AnuM-GdtSQmt3BPYHVKsSuQveEQB-h1k2twDxDTkWxvulkbFzKLL2kra24jjL-sdYxC4HKQtZmpV95JsK7VtGwns9kMleHEAySukg5NRhE4ZI8AhTdkd8XQHRYnszpNBQXsIPog/s1600/Unknown-1.jpeg" width="225" /></a></div><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">These
days of rage keep pressing on me, everyone is angry, tired to being pushed
around, sick of placating bullys who want to degrade and treat others like
dirt. 99% of the time I’ll do my best to just walk away, let it go hoping to
protect my serenity, sobriety and my life. But sometimes, you gotta hold your
stomposition. As a new election cycle kicks in, and the fear, confusion and
displacement of rage kicks hard against the psyche, and people struggle for
dignity, liberty, rights and reason, remember the Bullys’ battle cry. Remember
who you are, <i>know your rights</i>, cherish them, stand up for yourself and
the people you love. Don’t stop, don’t back down. That’s the engine of history.
It promises to be another long hard season, so tonight we fight again.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Donna Gaines, 11/15/22 <br /></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">"Writing
about fighting is the textbook definition of Mars in Gemini" -Monte
Farber, Astrologer.<br /></span></p>
<p><style>@font-face
{font-family:"Cambria Math";
panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:roman;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:-536870145 1107305727 0 0 415 0;}@font-face
{font-family:Calibri;
panose-1:2 15 5 2 2 2 4 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:swiss;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:-536859905 -1073732485 9 0 511 0;}p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal
{mso-style-unhide:no;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
margin:0in;
margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;
mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri;
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}.MsoChpDefault
{mso-style-type:export-only;
mso-default-props:yes;
font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;
mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri;
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}div.WordSection1
{page:WordSection1;}</style></p>Dr. Donna Gaineshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18372708080654645746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14868529.post-49610840485745029522022-04-06T14:30:00.005-04:002022-04-06T15:38:43.393-04:00"Close the Sky" March, 2022<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbhZ9L-saWDSjQzQEiXc0flQICw1Vy_-sO5XEyUEJsKVUsMhkvNOlLNlf7ki5XwdnwFNX_2nFD9ACpDRICj6WuaKa0jC_FVn7uyhQFDdUSviPmtNf-jjhg3KwFJn01Vx5Z71sDia5CR0RokpofTItHfdL127kibWdNK4UfERdnNeTVI9zxcTs/s4401/20220316_181410.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2239" data-original-width="4401" height="284" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbhZ9L-saWDSjQzQEiXc0flQICw1Vy_-sO5XEyUEJsKVUsMhkvNOlLNlf7ki5XwdnwFNX_2nFD9ACpDRICj6WuaKa0jC_FVn7uyhQFDdUSviPmtNf-jjhg3KwFJn01Vx5Z71sDia5CR0RokpofTItHfdL127kibWdNK4UfERdnNeTVI9zxcTs/w503-h284/20220316_181410.jpg" width="503" /></a></div><br /> <p></p>Dr. Donna Gaineshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18372708080654645746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14868529.post-14321876682265504152022-03-13T17:51:00.003-04:002023-01-07T16:42:45.578-05:00Heavy Hole Podcast--In The Hole: Interview <p><a href="https://share.fireside.fm/episode/eDRLteI2+wmSqC2xY">Heavy Hole Podcast--Hosted by Will & Tom--Dr. Donna Gaines on metal, punk and hardcore music</a></p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQxPTiPEudByLUNEJCWOy_ZfTsfbAB9thtwnB43YSWjRQraN05WDJ5O6uSkpHXESeZ0KEblVhjVwm8HWQl9cHXEleixZ-AgwtxxROkguqOGuBuyixbYKSVOTFNRn-EesfVMLAKiwcDf7jdnxX8XrZaGZxHGgFgMvaJbDIU7VhjyrdP5trMhpU/s1400/cover_medium.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1400" data-original-width="1400" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQxPTiPEudByLUNEJCWOy_ZfTsfbAB9thtwnB43YSWjRQraN05WDJ5O6uSkpHXESeZ0KEblVhjVwm8HWQl9cHXEleixZ-AgwtxxROkguqOGuBuyixbYKSVOTFNRn-EesfVMLAKiwcDf7jdnxX8XrZaGZxHGgFgMvaJbDIU7VhjyrdP5trMhpU/s320/cover_medium.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p>Dr. Donna Gaineshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18372708080654645746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14868529.post-59607147794630080112019-08-04T15:50:00.003-04:002019-08-04T15:53:27.673-04:00Joey Ramone's Annual Birthday Bash, May 19, 2109, The Bowery Electric, NYC<br /><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMyKEs39G9PXcoExqu_DLz-1e8r64_ngBsXSvouNhI_ityIUv0Rm3KWJa0iCFfJ7dbDAOFyW8h0HD13OJiyT90efmUxMdFnoKk0E7G6Vf-nGalPwFM9I-YArhiJ4gsWlGTTAHvYQ/s1600/20190519_185134.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="692" data-original-width="818" height="540" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMyKEs39G9PXcoExqu_DLz-1e8r64_ngBsXSvouNhI_ityIUv0Rm3KWJa0iCFfJ7dbDAOFyW8h0HD13OJiyT90efmUxMdFnoKk0E7G6Vf-nGalPwFM9I-YArhiJ4gsWlGTTAHvYQ/s640/20190519_185134.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2ReBqps_T0iXnPylAYXUDh0BDSae5kVrfiDHxCrpDZECc2wOSuG0LpvzY-X9RxBoUBpF7MxDY0DllVsqz8sb1fJRwt2ESAtfWCCNBGVTdUsHA-ORFfUlG3MY3O3v3pEg8OiDjLQ/s1600/92B668B1-8E81-470D-BFA8-282121DF6378.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="692" data-original-width="692" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2ReBqps_T0iXnPylAYXUDh0BDSae5kVrfiDHxCrpDZECc2wOSuG0LpvzY-X9RxBoUBpF7MxDY0DllVsqz8sb1fJRwt2ESAtfWCCNBGVTdUsHA-ORFfUlG3MY3O3v3pEg8OiDjLQ/s320/92B668B1-8E81-470D-BFA8-282121DF6378.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.800000190734863px;">Monte A. Melnick</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTbsYCifkTSNEfKDaUM9ZHUeFvyT0Ud3Pj7l1z5bfY9aGNneL0m6CT1pusK8QDG2V7A_wwa2rzWcBt9GxiftNZa4e_XFXbxQXNcYne3_bSZRC_Z6uHlfe2V6ScTEHpM58NUiWDBg/s1600/20190519_190654.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="692" data-original-width="806" height="342" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTbsYCifkTSNEfKDaUM9ZHUeFvyT0Ud3Pj7l1z5bfY9aGNneL0m6CT1pusK8QDG2V7A_wwa2rzWcBt9GxiftNZa4e_XFXbxQXNcYne3_bSZRC_Z6uHlfe2V6ScTEHpM58NUiWDBg/s400/20190519_190654.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpyYEuB2h3wyfbOJCOjKZxaewU6y9rYoJyFv1pGbpmGp0GnstkBjTGIuFajRebwoapsvPNu3a9OiGybwJx3EyTORdEU6Uq6H0O_a11R2caa6AoGFolG5EZbBWQKs9k1ES71pqI6w/s1600/20190519_200600.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="692" data-original-width="923" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpyYEuB2h3wyfbOJCOjKZxaewU6y9rYoJyFv1pGbpmGp0GnstkBjTGIuFajRebwoapsvPNu3a9OiGybwJx3EyTORdEU6Uq6H0O_a11R2caa6AoGFolG5EZbBWQKs9k1ES71pqI6w/s400/20190519_200600.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia1sUR9Hw9bsD0qVWy34GpIGFb7F1XfP3puAwfEYmyTbWqlC_hYAM5luVXs7OPr-zgOAju-JKcAns5Y_G5lfNZ3B6awEA1l8k_471TujMUKEZvkVCDZamMGNIeJ6WgkhOElDM-xQ/s1600/20190519_195819.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="692" data-original-width="923" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia1sUR9Hw9bsD0qVWy34GpIGFb7F1XfP3puAwfEYmyTbWqlC_hYAM5luVXs7OPr-zgOAju-JKcAns5Y_G5lfNZ3B6awEA1l8k_471TujMUKEZvkVCDZamMGNIeJ6WgkhOElDM-xQ/s400/20190519_195819.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoYBqi2rInKX8vZ2db68r5eeWNqzhundxkbtQoqKX-848tYMlwgJG_OOPi5hBkp4gAoA53kW39Eq52e7qRWoQNls0ua3X4bh6_tgFn96mdEAYdW9-iPRHZT9yOfGwtG0cQMrhXvQ/s1600/20190519_193819.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="692" data-original-width="923" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoYBqi2rInKX8vZ2db68r5eeWNqzhundxkbtQoqKX-848tYMlwgJG_OOPi5hBkp4gAoA53kW39Eq52e7qRWoQNls0ua3X4bh6_tgFn96mdEAYdW9-iPRHZT9yOfGwtG0cQMrhXvQ/s320/20190519_193819.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPK8k5IRev_PRYUqfy802kDiBThcUoNPqPemBCG0q24g4SG6uzCv7vbqezxHReWaoA_8akXoUefjczcA-HKkH22fnIkptQgP2IhXU3BEVLz1vEVn7ASzBM44U2mcA6zJdyFiTePg/s1600/20190519_190710.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="692" data-original-width="923" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPK8k5IRev_PRYUqfy802kDiBThcUoNPqPemBCG0q24g4SG6uzCv7vbqezxHReWaoA_8akXoUefjczcA-HKkH22fnIkptQgP2IhXU3BEVLz1vEVn7ASzBM44U2mcA6zJdyFiTePg/s320/20190519_190710.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />Dr. Donna Gaineshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18372708080654645746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14868529.post-77264204778560702642019-08-04T15:46:00.001-04:002019-08-04T15:46:15.812-04:00Multimedia Ramone Celebration, Innersleeve Records, Amagansett, NY 7/13/1Bridget LeRoy<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0NMNtOPVqY5251S44y1LWuGiz0v-KP8xX_L5GKRCSEx1Wsn5upvErJelyzlnNF67wWYUjhyoHFCLxLMa7odbhEZjA4lGIdXRvuuQTRkx-mlghyX59vnZlDHfJMZIaCZ94MPH9VQ/s1600/IMG_5659.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="692" data-original-width="923" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0NMNtOPVqY5251S44y1LWuGiz0v-KP8xX_L5GKRCSEx1Wsn5upvErJelyzlnNF67wWYUjhyoHFCLxLMa7odbhEZjA4lGIdXRvuuQTRkx-mlghyX59vnZlDHfJMZIaCZ94MPH9VQ/s400/IMG_5659.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bridget LeRoy of the Independent</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkLhG9lH5iORuFPs3fH055QV2pgf5X8B1gP8qcqR1BaEHY6LYGaStXFj6FEH33V1DtQYdx8IqMpbbfsyw32KxsuKsBB1nwjVQk7dc5Ar-f3vmTWADFrTwZiehNXgY1F2UWD3sc5Q/s1600/IMG_6110-1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="692" data-original-width="923" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkLhG9lH5iORuFPs3fH055QV2pgf5X8B1gP8qcqR1BaEHY6LYGaStXFj6FEH33V1DtQYdx8IqMpbbfsyw32KxsuKsBB1nwjVQk7dc5Ar-f3vmTWADFrTwZiehNXgY1F2UWD3sc5Q/s400/IMG_6110-1.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">DJ Wake n' Bake kicks it off</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij4Cpt5hHYe3I4FB0rgLqG8uOAvkQ9s_3pqI-johTNhbfri5iz2S_Xun-viVjYlpS4eAv-mnmlvnpi4EknNtOKNZ2OY8_AqHJkWYY0WxseDV6l03W75CEg5azyWpF9VjTSlWawDQ/s1600/IMG_6118.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="692" data-original-width="923" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij4Cpt5hHYe3I4FB0rgLqG8uOAvkQ9s_3pqI-johTNhbfri5iz2S_Xun-viVjYlpS4eAv-mnmlvnpi4EknNtOKNZ2OY8_AqHJkWYY0WxseDV6l03W75CEg5azyWpF9VjTSlWawDQ/s400/IMG_6118.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grandmaster Surf Champ and Artist Stevie White, the Andy Warhol of East End parties.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhapDBK0j065yRw92PSIgHlsmIe1Adpo-FvSM1Djld155J3GEvYq_j-qh51_klTYQ1Etws72CirfztjYBZX7Ttq8fqRCEs_QmK2QVeyGPndD2oWskpGNGd18b6wEd321rdaz7BT0A/s1600/IMG_6120.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="692" data-original-width="856" height="322" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhapDBK0j065yRw92PSIgHlsmIe1Adpo-FvSM1Djld155J3GEvYq_j-qh51_klTYQ1Etws72CirfztjYBZX7Ttq8fqRCEs_QmK2QVeyGPndD2oWskpGNGd18b6wEd321rdaz7BT0A/s400/IMG_6120.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our hosts, Innersleeve Records, keeping hope alive!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrLG7-s2n9gUiOeXxmmkNBHlhapcCQLwe6e4SN4M2nnPVXthyphenhyphenSP8pBR6yTJojnLTa0XzBYNtPVrw_ST7M-75tgPlelQAeZgNG5fzeZZ1dfZDmM5fI0AlLqT1IWDpQh7QY6pAPxNg/s1600/IMG_6126.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="692" data-original-width="625" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrLG7-s2n9gUiOeXxmmkNBHlhapcCQLwe6e4SN4M2nnPVXthyphenhyphenSP8pBR6yTJojnLTa0XzBYNtPVrw_ST7M-75tgPlelQAeZgNG5fzeZZ1dfZDmM5fI0AlLqT1IWDpQh7QY6pAPxNg/s320/IMG_6126.JPG" width="289" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Punk photographer/author Chip Rock</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1jsCBLqSEuI0HOZsF6BwD6kAtwcdQov7PCNHRpY4ITxs4AB4_zzWgxwj0PcW-NutaXsbtX98jfqxA36atoISHp3VxN5H9WdiGjtoVck8xB7gRRBdF9LRyT2Onc7-QaynlrX1ypQ/s1600/IMG_6132.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="692" data-original-width="923" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1jsCBLqSEuI0HOZsF6BwD6kAtwcdQov7PCNHRpY4ITxs4AB4_zzWgxwj0PcW-NutaXsbtX98jfqxA36atoISHp3VxN5H9WdiGjtoVck8xB7gRRBdF9LRyT2Onc7-QaynlrX1ypQ/s400/IMG_6132.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Members of Juvenile Hazard and the Boomer Brothers, our Holms!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQb5MGajgRJMvm9R6e3k8Ahl9QI08bCQX78UZ7SZ4Eq7kIuq8PwGPeaI2XnE1Ksvlpk1amuvOuY0-STqU-1t4W4WCik4C2TtdtcculJLAwszIDsEyDq0evyyLNsynTjU5MtlDhFA/s1600/IMG_6145.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="692" data-original-width="519" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQb5MGajgRJMvm9R6e3k8Ahl9QI08bCQX78UZ7SZ4Eq7kIuq8PwGPeaI2XnE1Ksvlpk1amuvOuY0-STqU-1t4W4WCik4C2TtdtcculJLAwszIDsEyDq0evyyLNsynTjU5MtlDhFA/s400/IMG_6145.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Guitarist Jewlee Trudden of InCircles with Johnny Ramone</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />Dr. Donna Gaineshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18372708080654645746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14868529.post-40408786249292035042019-08-04T15:37:00.005-04:002019-08-04T15:52:53.635-04:00Unbound Book Festival, Columbia, Mo.<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDsRM6a1eaKwn7G_uLDa4rbfUClC7B7wHUf5u1UqflPH0B3JAIZ6g-86DoLMYvoMEz-QrLpWWgaQA_HvWumOosibB_Tn0MQhQtIKlkDRmuqT3VJPeiZCa-BfZTnl3obILUoGBWrQ/s1600/IMG_5506.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="692" data-original-width="639" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDsRM6a1eaKwn7G_uLDa4rbfUClC7B7wHUf5u1UqflPH0B3JAIZ6g-86DoLMYvoMEz-QrLpWWgaQA_HvWumOosibB_Tn0MQhQtIKlkDRmuqT3VJPeiZCa-BfZTnl3obILUoGBWrQ/s400/IMG_5506.JPG" width="368" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fellow Panelists: Joan Morgan. Wesley Brown and Shane Bauer</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCoEc0-D8nnurcVEWrZSgXM7wzf-k8lesNXoecg44rlt5Wrn4Rdxi-Hn1UBqhXcCyJMcu2FevjUENtN0GFppkpnfW48LQ7ul2TDS82CVWox-5NyA4e-9ChW5LUqpQsA_E7bBpLfg/s1600/IMG_5512.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="692" data-original-width="503" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCoEc0-D8nnurcVEWrZSgXM7wzf-k8lesNXoecg44rlt5Wrn4Rdxi-Hn1UBqhXcCyJMcu2FevjUENtN0GFppkpnfW48LQ7ul2TDS82CVWox-5NyA4e-9ChW5LUqpQsA_E7bBpLfg/s400/IMG_5512.JPG" width="290" /></a></div>
<br />Dr. Donna Gaineshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18372708080654645746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14868529.post-72617740590420080682019-08-01T17:03:00.001-04:002019-08-04T15:24:15.850-04:00 Interviewed by NPR Sound Opinions hosts Jim DeRogatis & Greg Kot<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9RLHGCE5yoYpc2ImMw72sCEUdBfQQR-qPuSYlc9a6XP8jBa8W4hmZ4FCqwvv2gOnO-_i1Y-CLd1afEifNGO0Oy6RlVrHpctwnqrFcEQkD5hYx3ujGvMcZn4U8mjNYSUXxvvmSGw/s1600/22196489_1380012998780021_9175062472509302233_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="658" data-original-width="912" height="230" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9RLHGCE5yoYpc2ImMw72sCEUdBfQQR-qPuSYlc9a6XP8jBa8W4hmZ4FCqwvv2gOnO-_i1Y-CLd1afEifNGO0Oy6RlVrHpctwnqrFcEQkD5hYx3ujGvMcZn4U8mjNYSUXxvvmSGw/s320/22196489_1380012998780021_9175062472509302233_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<a href="https://soundopinions.org/show/714" style="color: #954f72; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; line-height: normal;">https://soundopinions.org/show/714</a><br />
Click link to download podcast.<br />
<b><br />Why the Ramones Matter, Tommy Ramone & Opinions on Chance the Rapper</b><br />
"Back in the 1970s, punk was shorthand for a subculture that took pride in breaking the mainstream's mold. And at the vanguard of punk rock was The Ramones. Jim and Greg explore the cultural contributions of the band, beyond the myth, with the author of Why The Ramones Matter, Donna Gaines. Plus, they revisit their 2007 conversation with the late Tommy Ramone. They also review the latest from Chicago's Chance the Rapper."<br />
<br />
<div style="background-color: white; color: #454545; font-family: Garamond, Georgia, 'Sentinel SSm A', 'Sentinel SSm B', Verdana, HelveticaNeue-Light, 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica; font-size: 1.5em; letter-spacing: 0.0125em; line-height: 1.5em; margin-bottom: 0.5em; margin-top: 0.5em; padding: 0px;">
<br /></div>
Dr. Donna Gaineshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18372708080654645746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14868529.post-91137916472178484352019-04-16T18:24:00.000-04:002019-04-16T18:24:06.061-04:00Authors Reading/Signing, Rough Draft Bar & Books, Kingston, NY 3/31/19<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRQpQX0-BApuZZJ7c-z8HLD95FpPqnZS1OB6fG_iKmlWXDH4MOK6XjqVqIsh2Ld-_kYN2D8ky36rDOdsCkPrGPt-WuKLB0xorLxhCWHQ-wHIt3pWZZtlk8zRTVCEOm5QGMAjMseA/s1600/image007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRQpQX0-BApuZZJ7c-z8HLD95FpPqnZS1OB6fG_iKmlWXDH4MOK6XjqVqIsh2Ld-_kYN2D8ky36rDOdsCkPrGPt-WuKLB0xorLxhCWHQ-wHIt3pWZZtlk8zRTVCEOm5QGMAjMseA/s320/image007.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
Authors Tom Smucker and Donna Gaines Reading/Signing<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFne6FGikgBwZfGTo0PIwlu4NePyHYVtVd5JOB7QYR3MGWnDOmYwjPUjap4h1enTwZQRAYZatkhSKb5o3VoKb-jusVVROLHXfem5DHmeKXciQ372uQnGH768nArIgzqE0k0_peYg/s1600/image008.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFne6FGikgBwZfGTo0PIwlu4NePyHYVtVd5JOB7QYR3MGWnDOmYwjPUjap4h1enTwZQRAYZatkhSKb5o3VoKb-jusVVROLHXfem5DHmeKXciQ372uQnGH768nArIgzqE0k0_peYg/s320/image008.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Ramones and Beach Boys Surf the Hudson</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6J4sZ5mJ3j2gefGDpy_-JA3fw5CqI2L-NbLswD-p34uNIG32QxTo3Zf-DoocMkvBGvJHPipQjkQ-p6qZJ3ezDPTqd0ykUVxCkAoaUSzYJE7GtUarxyb6mdMoDJSfPb54BJPLZVQ/s1600/image009.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6J4sZ5mJ3j2gefGDpy_-JA3fw5CqI2L-NbLswD-p34uNIG32QxTo3Zf-DoocMkvBGvJHPipQjkQ-p6qZJ3ezDPTqd0ykUVxCkAoaUSzYJE7GtUarxyb6mdMoDJSfPb54BJPLZVQ/s320/image009.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
With my Empire State College Alumni/Students</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWupyu-FNqIS65IaX5jXUgiYRRAeY4TgqlKdXdVuIVs0aA66D1jZ8sEhxXIgrFYjh9OVWTGmMqQ7g8ZZXV7xT-D2vlMSr73bZ2U9SvCH1m7SZb2hkyQmj-vwrlzQ4LAyEupkz2Zg/s1600/image010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWupyu-FNqIS65IaX5jXUgiYRRAeY4TgqlKdXdVuIVs0aA66D1jZ8sEhxXIgrFYjh9OVWTGmMqQ7g8ZZXV7xT-D2vlMSr73bZ2U9SvCH1m7SZb2hkyQmj-vwrlzQ4LAyEupkz2Zg/s320/image010.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Peter Aaron, Holly George Warren and Andy Shernoff (Dictators Forever)</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4H5nGMQ0BHc1ep3cOmUcPMfOR8IIhu2eLPsq4hvt51bfE52Xs29ZE7gGkENUpB6WUzOAXMGsGpcEAEFwSqsLWQ9F2Rol3XstP5hXMAn2e8IH7qN77tL_viyxP4G47BlyvmW8D6g/s1600/image012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="604" data-original-width="687" height="281" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4H5nGMQ0BHc1ep3cOmUcPMfOR8IIhu2eLPsq4hvt51bfE52Xs29ZE7gGkENUpB6WUzOAXMGsGpcEAEFwSqsLWQ9F2Rol3XstP5hXMAn2e8IH7qN77tL_viyxP4G47BlyvmW8D6g/s320/image012.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Ramones Theory</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6k05jojNI5NZ4HX5bUtoQLn2WigVIf4pn9l0EAF5ywJWgDLwvR8bztKw_LFgbyft4NQ5H9whuZyg2vkj0Ys-lF7yr5pqqMMrutnPTen2IUMulcJIpNHXNzQIG_sX3MeUK1kspFQ/s1600/image013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6k05jojNI5NZ4HX5bUtoQLn2WigVIf4pn9l0EAF5ywJWgDLwvR8bztKw_LFgbyft4NQ5H9whuZyg2vkj0Ys-lF7yr5pqqMMrutnPTen2IUMulcJIpNHXNzQIG_sX3MeUK1kspFQ/s320/image013.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Beach Boys Methodology</div>
<br />Dr. Donna Gaineshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18372708080654645746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14868529.post-39566552352240000232019-04-16T18:15:00.003-04:002019-04-16T18:15:48.016-04:00Artists in Partnership honors Donna Gaines with a 'Women in the Arts Award" 3/22/19.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC2c7hHtm1-EvLo_THqkyD6rLuDKF0Vz_mm3-U08pZZ_7fsKW3oagkspYjO6ZJLYz5CIuqjGwApwP_IfuI4v2rXaB5Ya4qjXjwDfWgBvuwwsSeyDPdqxy35aOdZsm-WH8IUSCsug/s1600/55669583_10157407384103338_6610104154880737280_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="893" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC2c7hHtm1-EvLo_THqkyD6rLuDKF0Vz_mm3-U08pZZ_7fsKW3oagkspYjO6ZJLYz5CIuqjGwApwP_IfuI4v2rXaB5Ya4qjXjwDfWgBvuwwsSeyDPdqxy35aOdZsm-WH8IUSCsug/s320/55669583_10157407384103338_6610104154880737280_n.jpg" width="297" /></a></div>
<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> "Women in the Arts" Award, 2019, Artists in Partnership, March 22, 2019</span></div>
Dr. Donna Gaineshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18372708080654645746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14868529.post-39761234094228455842019-04-16T18:11:00.002-04:002019-04-16T18:20:21.210-04:00Author Presentation: MoPop/PopCon Conference, Seattle, 2019<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzuOA8_LNYPLSucBzICsVmkWwVBE24YZIiDnfqoTcOWOPoaoV7TXKKUeHVjVb5mxja2CysLU-8C70QiJOQCFeLrq-bpeuIpmkajMPjbz4Z2ON7VP11YNNKBoeHsaTtotJPIcXS-g/s1600/IMG_24401.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzuOA8_LNYPLSucBzICsVmkWwVBE24YZIiDnfqoTcOWOPoaoV7TXKKUeHVjVb5mxja2CysLU-8C70QiJOQCFeLrq-bpeuIpmkajMPjbz4Z2ON7VP11YNNKBoeHsaTtotJPIcXS-g/s320/IMG_24401.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
With Music Matters/University of Texas Editors, Evelyn McDonnell and Casey Kittrell</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhde8iOvjrngajRD1bnkqMH825CY4uymJrlOsGjJST14mpca-6CA1mZziXmVoJZ9FHfXFK6I1h78yrshHX2edaS5RriXc-uCrCT8mOLWSawo_Vn5OSrM0aG66Qi-g99rsWoiRMtaA/s1600/56679512_10218458624645703_1814320079911780352_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhde8iOvjrngajRD1bnkqMH825CY4uymJrlOsGjJST14mpca-6CA1mZziXmVoJZ9FHfXFK6I1h78yrshHX2edaS5RriXc-uCrCT8mOLWSawo_Vn5OSrM0aG66Qi-g99rsWoiRMtaA/s320/56679512_10218458624645703_1814320079911780352_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Music Matter Series, and other great new music titles</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ6YUZN7LvtujNEI7oYGjfPhzOXYzKFVYeOuolyAOontatzOe4OfZ3qLmIZ_23M9wzLpoFi7LpEvtgWkAZuAXOS1GRGzTbLhkTpDNCb5Owg95lNi1JnEYcR6JOmnzQ9Ej40TWyzw/s1600/56922780_10157459349893338_7167166653032038400_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="899" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ6YUZN7LvtujNEI7oYGjfPhzOXYzKFVYeOuolyAOontatzOe4OfZ3qLmIZ_23M9wzLpoFi7LpEvtgWkAZuAXOS1GRGzTbLhkTpDNCb5Owg95lNi1JnEYcR6JOmnzQ9Ej40TWyzw/s320/56922780_10157459349893338_7167166653032038400_n.jpg" width="299" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Village Voice alumni, Tricia Romano & me</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb9gwQzR5AK1Dwwsgnai-YnN0QWEXcLihslFHqkkTuQhmV5yQijfRlzOJf7XU99A7D_LlRhclt-0OxGXMjg9FyLgz0etVtmg6FbBPdteKFTzHL-8glbbAXPisGYiuqcdQJiHRzyQ/s1600/57377412_10218464538553547_1070288270862057472_n-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb9gwQzR5AK1Dwwsgnai-YnN0QWEXcLihslFHqkkTuQhmV5yQijfRlzOJf7XU99A7D_LlRhclt-0OxGXMjg9FyLgz0etVtmg6FbBPdteKFTzHL-8glbbAXPisGYiuqcdQJiHRzyQ/s320/57377412_10218464538553547_1070288270862057472_n-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Music Matters Authors & Editor</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3SSzCgoNBby07OOpgYZHYos-gvVxsmrqW2slC9AjSVlBC9No-AnAdbCVpdIf0IDQxI7DQsBMjxoWWnvkfUpAE2vEj-2_aG4i2Zv9txlIYqHBWLrfBLc8C1QUiNsp-EujwhbZqDg/s1600/IMG_24781.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3SSzCgoNBby07OOpgYZHYos-gvVxsmrqW2slC9AjSVlBC9No-AnAdbCVpdIf0IDQxI7DQsBMjxoWWnvkfUpAE2vEj-2_aG4i2Zv9txlIYqHBWLrfBLc8C1QUiNsp-EujwhbZqDg/s320/IMG_24781.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
"All Good Cretins Go to Heaven"</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />Dr. Donna Gaineshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18372708080654645746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14868529.post-19909405874428901252019-01-11T16:05:00.003-05:002023-01-06T17:10:09.028-05:00Author Reading: Canios Books, Sag Harbor, NY 10/12/18: "DIY"<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /><p></p><p><span class="s1">Sat. Oct.
13 at 5 p.m. Rock journalist/sociologist
Donna Gaines reads from <u>Why The Ramones Matter </u>at Canio’s Books, 290
Main Street, Sag Harbor. 5 p.m. Also the author of <u>Teenage Wasteland:
Suburbia’s Dead End Kids</u>, and <u>A Misfits Manifesto,</u> Gaines will be
celebrating her current new critically acclaimed book release.</span></p></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p>
<span class="s1"> </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="s1"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjafxRw4TPRQeErr0iELy04AR2ZeHcEEe6PjmIuopqr7jPi8TiUyClVfOsufnxUsKHiN9JHP_FId5cM2OTBXa63ZmpP_UuZ4WGt1nQLkrYHxMPsuPzTHGzA75KbhZ9hsTdGl-tgsc6HvRe2lWJ7j9SX7JWuc-srP5hpsQqqcVLZ774hfDbG_xA/s640/IMG_4364.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="576" data-original-width="640" height="288" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjafxRw4TPRQeErr0iELy04AR2ZeHcEEe6PjmIuopqr7jPi8TiUyClVfOsufnxUsKHiN9JHP_FId5cM2OTBXa63ZmpP_UuZ4WGt1nQLkrYHxMPsuPzTHGzA75KbhZ9hsTdGl-tgsc6HvRe2lWJ7j9SX7JWuc-srP5hpsQqqcVLZ774hfDbG_xA/s320/IMG_4364.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div><span class="s1"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-gtXsH0Sx0Q3wyA6Q8tR5XHLGWluhD4uA37yFhcY5gfc1oiqNCg-jmOxLR5hNlsweHXPEKG6Pd7OYjh2TV3f2aJtnS-ghAKH_X9qeNKOAxJkW9pRzNIDT_GFLWYcFlj4_dP4a4W0tJkx9Gx9aS3nB8Wiva5esF8yWi36JtfXwVCVoY2RNiek/s1140/IMG_4354.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1140" data-original-width="752" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-gtXsH0Sx0Q3wyA6Q8tR5XHLGWluhD4uA37yFhcY5gfc1oiqNCg-jmOxLR5hNlsweHXPEKG6Pd7OYjh2TV3f2aJtnS-ghAKH_X9qeNKOAxJkW9pRzNIDT_GFLWYcFlj4_dP4a4W0tJkx9Gx9aS3nB8Wiva5esF8yWi36JtfXwVCVoY2RNiek/s320/IMG_4354.jpg" width="211" /></a></div><br /><br /></span><p></p><br />Dr. Donna Gaineshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18372708080654645746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14868529.post-45718639961375670192019-01-05T14:37:00.001-05:002019-01-05T14:41:47.871-05:00Author Radio Interview WSHU FM Public Radio, Ron Ropiak 1/4/19<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5J7Y2aWtUQuoO-jQTpuBT6UdQYr-ajyAsGRPMKHjsV9l3AA0BU0taBFAvDba7SqlScud6XT159FX_GpSlRrTqh13EuTrcn8XskhdoD6kZ9iR2CN-P07fOS3mz628eYB6Cece-aw/s1600/continentalramones.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="200" data-original-width="350" height="182" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5J7Y2aWtUQuoO-jQTpuBT6UdQYr-ajyAsGRPMKHjsV9l3AA0BU0taBFAvDba7SqlScud6XT159FX_GpSlRrTqh13EuTrcn8XskhdoD6kZ9iR2CN-P07fOS3mz628eYB6Cece-aw/s320/continentalramones.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Click Here: <a href="https://cpa.ds.npr.org/wshu/audio/2019/01/cinema_arts_center.mp3?siteplayer=true&dl=1">Ramones interview kick in around 29 minutes in.</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Dr. Donna Gaineshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18372708080654645746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14868529.post-20777564721389275262018-12-30T18:34:00.000-05:002018-12-30T19:10:41.488-05:00Author Reading, Long Beach Public Library, 12/29/18<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://youtu.be/KdL92glw0aw">Author Reading: Long Beach Public Library 12/29/18</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijCYWEe0FHfk7Okf3NRQuMkDMvlulbHzHc_Y_jpHbdjNAmqyvSzutihfFzxc0qdS9GwEj3DavIkcl_mmR05yVohILmHP33sNVnkgmgzNUJY2jEGyaZ5lidueOqll8O7UW59eW0Vw/s1600/48989528_10157200177958338_4832261760494862336_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijCYWEe0FHfk7Okf3NRQuMkDMvlulbHzHc_Y_jpHbdjNAmqyvSzutihfFzxc0qdS9GwEj3DavIkcl_mmR05yVohILmHP33sNVnkgmgzNUJY2jEGyaZ5lidueOqll8O7UW59eW0Vw/s200/48989528_10157200177958338_4832261760494862336_n.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>
Multimedia celebration of the mighty Ramones at the surfy Long Beach Public Library (NewYorkNotCalifornia) included author reading from <b>Why The Ramones Matter</b>, and live performances of Ramones music by Cool Hand Ukes and The Young Rochelles---they've opened for CJ and Marky. The auditorium was packed, all ages, from grannies to toddlers!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn8W54l0UEu8LSBb65N_3l02E6_jiXTeqKUssk8gHLew6e147ibnGcc2P_q2isCA3Pa9kkEu5TTpHe58R07w6WJloTBWEWeEDoeJjdOP3srRsOc29G2UyFN88sd__WfvzKzE9OPg/s1600/49009374_10157200041598338_3965800242225348608_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn8W54l0UEu8LSBb65N_3l02E6_jiXTeqKUssk8gHLew6e147ibnGcc2P_q2isCA3Pa9kkEu5TTpHe58R07w6WJloTBWEWeEDoeJjdOP3srRsOc29G2UyFN88sd__WfvzKzE9OPg/s320/49009374_10157200041598338_3965800242225348608_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjddpMv6AgLxYgvE0s0Cpq84PZPspdbAKGLl_iMoqSmyIFnt9UuJilV0BVbNedD_E-CQt1nuqt9HZ6G8HivKmEoEIrtLogWACNPN6SeGSN3qtqKA-KtJ_RzacV62gGk-loOdCO4ZQ/s1600/49178075_10157200042408338_5089322072920817664_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="948" data-original-width="960" height="316" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjddpMv6AgLxYgvE0s0Cpq84PZPspdbAKGLl_iMoqSmyIFnt9UuJilV0BVbNedD_E-CQt1nuqt9HZ6G8HivKmEoEIrtLogWACNPN6SeGSN3qtqKA-KtJ_RzacV62gGk-loOdCO4ZQ/s320/49178075_10157200042408338_5089322072920817664_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOvpO0dHeZgWp4G_06VmwKelbRRVGfc2enUenujLOyjZ6v5bmZ4oGRhH9V1sfSCyVJcQ_PSgjlocrkWFg2q96O5A8UzVzT-epC1L96BKl7dKxWb6CpBpSw01BeVsvtjzC6-SEAGw/s1600/49332693_10157200041833338_6718528117482192896_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOvpO0dHeZgWp4G_06VmwKelbRRVGfc2enUenujLOyjZ6v5bmZ4oGRhH9V1sfSCyVJcQ_PSgjlocrkWFg2q96O5A8UzVzT-epC1L96BKl7dKxWb6CpBpSw01BeVsvtjzC6-SEAGw/s320/49332693_10157200041833338_6718528117482192896_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />Dr. Donna Gaineshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18372708080654645746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14868529.post-2255761791119185302018-11-23T13:35:00.005-05:002018-11-23T14:43:40.501-05:00Reader Reviews from Around the RamonesWorld!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjpQRw2oXJF_9-PsD_8jiOmbEruroLzBBxE8Au8jC6KLubvIZH0vQ9ZpovfhyphenhyphenXn0EVONu-ha0Iu2_W1Mvi2EvJ-6re6JTS2ENIGSQk9n7mIo4XNd8SWA68pjLizpPxQmRaf2yITA/s1600/images.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="207" data-original-width="245" height="168" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjpQRw2oXJF_9-PsD_8jiOmbEruroLzBBxE8Au8jC6KLubvIZH0vQ9ZpovfhyphenhyphenXn0EVONu-ha0Iu2_W1Mvi2EvJ-6re6JTS2ENIGSQk9n7mIo4XNd8SWA68pjLizpPxQmRaf2yITA/s200/images.jpeg" width="200" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><br /></i></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The Ramonesworld now crosses all boundaries, connecting fans across generations and nations like a world religion. Over forty years after the release of Ramones, from Japan to Argentina, Idaho to Russia, Berlin to Texas, the band's impact reverberates like they just broke yesterday, inspiring skate punks, riot grrrls, rude boys, queer kids and Afropunks. Following the publication of <b>Why The Ramones Matter,</b> several fans have started posted reviews----on Ramones fan pages, and websites from around the world. I'll be posting a few of them here. If you'd like to post a review, please contact donna@donnagaines.com.</span></i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>Gabba Gabba Hey! </i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
</span><br />
<h3>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: red; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 26.5pt;">Review by </span><span style="text-transform: uppercase;"><span style="font-size: large;">Julia Green*</span></span></span><span style="color: red; text-transform: uppercase;"> (Russia):</span></span></h3>
<span style="color: red; font-size: x-small;"><i><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-weight: normal;">*Admin: Facebook Fan Page, </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/333747876750514/?ref=group_header" style="cursor: pointer; font-family: inherit; text-decoration: none;">Ramones Tribute "Too Tough To Die</a><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif;">", Editor at Rolling Stone, Russia.</span></i></span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: red; text-transform: uppercase;"><div class="_19s_" style="color: #90949c; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; margin-top: 4px; text-transform: none; word-wrap: break-word;">
<span data-hover="tooltip" data-tooltip-content="Anyone can find the group, see who's in it and what they post." id="js_th" style="font-family: inherit;"><b><i class="_3ph1 img sp_387n34yO1ZQ sx_806be2" style="background-image: url(https://static.xx.fbcdn.net/rsrc.php/v3/yt/r/6XPayjQATFF.png); background-position: 0px -363px; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: auto; display: inline-block; height: 12px; margin: 3px 4px 0px 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 12px;"></i></b></span></div>
</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 18.65pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><i><span style="color: #1d2129;">“The American Dream is sustained by optimism, even when nihilism
is trendy.” </span></i></b><b><span style="color: #1d2129;">(DG) </span></b><span style="color: #1d2129;">Every book tells the
story… Now, you have a lot more than this. </span><i><span style="color: #1d2129;">WTRM</span></i><span style="color: #1d2129;"> is offering you the
lost pieces of a puzzle you were probably searching for and collecting all
these years, if you crave for this sort of information about the band we’re all
affected by. As it’s known, amongst all the music bands, Ramones have one of
the most strong and devoted followers. And with Donna Gaines book, it feels
like talking to a friend. Much more safe than just talking to a sociologist she
really is.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 18.65pt;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 18.65pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span style="color: #1d2129;">“The work is part encomium, part eulogy, and I’m completely
biased and prone to hyperbole. Like any diehard fan, I’m in an ongoing relationship
with the Ramones’ material, inclined to “creative readings” of their text, ever
wondering, <b>What do they really mean?</b> I’m here to testify that the
Ramones’ music matters — culturally, historically, sociologically, creatively,
and profoundly.” </span></i><span style="color: #1d2129;">— Donna Gaines.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 18.65pt;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 18.65pt;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“As soon as you
start analyzing something, it stops”, — according to Johnny Ramone. One of my
favorite quotes I basically agree with. Notwithstanding, we have a right to
analyze, reflect and be crazy about what we have deep affection for, even if Jonhhy
wouldn’t have wanted it. We can play with it and heck around, and then get back
to the purest source — band’s music.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 18.65pt;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 18.65pt;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“The Ramones are my
band.” From the first lines, this just buys you, and you feel like you’re
instantly connected with the author… What’s new can be said about this, you may
ask, however?<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 18.65pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #1d2129;">You might sort of
expect what’s behind the title — but in reality, it’s </span><b><i><span style="color: #1d2129;">much</span></i></b><span style="color: #1d2129;"> more than this. </span><i><span style="color: #1d2129;">Why The Ramones
Matter</span></i><span style="color: #1d2129;">
covers and observes the wider spectrum of subjects than one would think of. The
author’s personality is also the answer on this question, too! This is a
returned gratitude.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 18.65pt;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 18.65pt;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">This book is written
by the Ramones enthusiast — which means more than just being a fan, it means
living the Ramones. Donna Gaines is not only a sociologist and acknowledged
writer — she’s a bright ambassador out of Ramones target audience camp, which
is most precious, and only this makes, in this sense, the book very unique. New
York native, who could tell it the best?.. But, within sociology, we have also
a fascinating journey. A fan, and also a close friend of the band, Donna has it
both to offer at best: stories to tell and insights you’ll be willing to sink
in.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 18.65pt;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 18.65pt;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">While answering the
aforementioned question, the book captures surprisingly wide variety of
subjects — from post-war teenage generation’s alienation to Jewish sardonic
response to fascism (highly interesting topic), from Afropunk all-access
facility to women rights problems — and festives true open-mindness. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 18.65pt;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">In the eye of this
storm, Donna masterfully operates with this rich material, unveiling surprising
links in those places where you probably wouldn’t expect them to be found,
skillfully connects subjects and helps to determine reasons, showing the roots,
sometimes not quite mercifully — but all because of unconditional love. This is
what good doctors do. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 18.65pt;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 18.65pt;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">You need this book,
not only because you don’t need to be fooled again: it clearly shows you, where
you can be fooled and how to get away from it. It legitimizes, again, that
simple idea that, being a Ramones fan aka “major outcast”, you can grow
yourself into anything — to any level of success in life. If you were waiting
for this sort of direction — here is it.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 18.65pt;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 18.65pt;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Ramones rebellion-spirited
music was the uplifting force of nature, instinctive answer to the American
downward spiral of 70s economics, in an artistic way, it was protesting the end
of American Dream in particular as an idea. (This was new to me, because of me being
foreign; moreover, — being from Russia, by this representing a very special
marginal category: being “an enemy” in 70s, which then echoed in the newfound
modern world rhetoric, too. For a rock’n’roll fan, however, the best idea is
just to “fuck it”, though.) Ramones have idolized 50-60s — not only musically,
but socially too. The best rock’n’rolls were written in 50-60s, of course, and
it was a great time to be around, great time to be a kid. Seems, that, however,
the 70s have triggered them, in the other way… It was awakening kick up.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 18.65pt;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">That’s why the
Ramones have rocketed in popularity and succeeded fantastically in South
America, because those kids can relate! (Mystery solved!) Ramones loved America
and NYC. Now the whole world loves them.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 18.65pt;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">(They never really
made it in Russia for another reason — but we won’t go there, because it’s
another tragic history lesson...)<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 18.65pt;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 18.65pt;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">When you can’t fit
in — even among your peers and like-minded — Ramones make it okay for you just
being who you are, being alone and being yourself. Looks like they attract and
summon all the misfits — especially those who aren’t seem “cool”; they give
them a community to belong to, but without a rotten sense of elitism. Though
the Ramones t-shirts are widely spotted now, and even in my village, without
many people still having a clue, being a Ramones fan nowadays still means to be
a warrior, a trooper: it means having some good level of resistance in your
blood and your life on a daily basis, and requires, may I say, balls, — but
sometimes the way of a lone samurai seems okay too. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 18.65pt;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 18.65pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #1d2129;">Ramones owns the
(magic) key to the souls of those who are otherwise absolutely closed to any
kind of invasion from the gaudy popular culture of so-called “modern world”,
thus naturally resistant to brainwashing. As Donna wisely notices, “Young
people have built-in bullshit detectors.” She also provides us the background
of this situation, which was quite surprising for me. Through her friendship
and personal encounters with the band’s members, she exposes you the whole
picture, </span><i><span style="color: #1d2129;">avere una visione completa.</span></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 18.65pt;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“America’s outsiders
are now an American institution, an integral part of mass culture”, states
Donna, — the institution, instead of reservation, which, from the start, it has
“meant to be”. Ramones has broken through their reservation’s borders, and
their fans followed them, like they were breaking through the steel fences on
their shows — the kids seeking freedom, but still needing the leader. Too late
— it can’t be ignored anymore. While, somehow, we may protest against “the
institution” term itself, it’s time to think about those who can’t be supported
the other way than having strong authority and brotherly shoulder. And this is
the institution you’d like to be in. Ramones now are a great modeling force —
not just the band. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 18.65pt;">
<i><span style="color: #1d2129;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 18.65pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span style="color: #1d2129;">“We begin to comprehend both their artistic brilliance and their
cultural importance.”</span></i><span style="color: #1d2129;">(DG)<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 18.65pt;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Being #2 after none
others than Beatles means you’re #1 for the rest of the bands, who have earned
“the institution” status. This niche seems pretty comfortable, however, Ramones
still can never be tamed.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 18.65pt;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 18.65pt;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">A natural
phenomenon, they still “have it”, they still inspire, without being dated or
getting boring — and it’s very well seen today on countless message boards, in
forums posts, in social networks and Facebook fan groups, gathering not only
hopping cretins but sometimes very life-wise adepts and even original punks,
which are not many of left. Old generations meet new, and they still have
something to talk about, besides mutual appreciation. The problems remain the
same, after all. We’re growing on the solutions.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 18.65pt;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 18.65pt;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">For me, first it was
the music, the feeling, anyway — the sense of a theory came later. Talking
about Ramones’ songs, Donna seems becoming that teenager again, when she first
heard the band. What is interesting about all Ramones “adepts” that they’re
able to carry on the same youthful spirit (Looks like I’m talking like an old
man here, lol.) And it’s not something you can really “incorporate”, you should
be born with it. But, the Fountain is still open for everyone, 24/7, and you
only need to try to find it.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 18.65pt;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 18.65pt;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“Lost in adulthood
responsibilities and obligations, we are welcomed back to ourselves by the
Ramones’ music, reminding us who we really are. The ultimate teenage music
becomes a lifelong scriptural reference for the scamp in each of us.” (DG)<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 18.65pt;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 18.65pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #1d2129;">Not in particular a
“Ramones manual”, this book still can be suggested to those who aren’t familiar
with the band yet — because it brilliantly explains its core, and you can trust
the fellow outsider here. Once you’re hooked on the whole plot, to broaden your
knowledge, getting other Donna’s books seems a must — they are </span><i><span style="color: #1d2129;">Teenage Wasteland: Suburbia's Dead End Kids</span></i><span style="color: #1d2129;"> (1997) and </span><i><span style="color: #1d2129;">A Misfit's Manifesto: The Sociological Memoir of a Rock &
Roll Heart </span></i><span style="color: #1d2129;">(2007).<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 18.65pt;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 18.65pt;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Any way you want it
— Ramones can be your band, ideology, religion, father figures, home,
sanctuary, Buddhas, bruddars, mentors, best friends you never had, your shining
guiding stars, your saints, demons and loved ones. They’re here for you, and
for everyone, one only needs to listen… and learn. It’s very possible. It
doesn’t really matter, how they get to your heart — but once they did, you know
it anyway. You are already here.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 18.65pt;">
<i><span style="color: #1d2129;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 18.65pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span style="color: #1d2129;">WTRM</span></i><span style="color: #1d2129;">’s goal is not to fix up damaged souls, and minds — though, why
not to? — but to help them to fit in better to the reality of modern world *
wink*, using your props and advantages as a Ramones fan. Deepening total
alienation from society can ruin one’s life — and so, Donna as a sociologist
has a nice solution for you, proving that there’s nothing wrong with being who
and what you are, and giving you some important tips how to go on (More tips in
her other books, if you are interested enough in the topic), also warning us
ab</span><span style="color: #1d2129;">out the floating sharks. Now you won’t get fooled again.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 18.65pt;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 18.65pt;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">This is the kind of
book that, after finishing, you’ll be still dwelling on — just like it happens
with any decent book you feel special connection to. Just like with Ramones
music.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 18.65pt;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">And it matters, too.</span></span></div>
<h3>
<span style="color: red; font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Review by ROCKY THE RAMONE (Texas):</span></h3>
<h2>
<b style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #90949c;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/RockyTheRamone/?__tn__=kCH-R&eid=ARBTy_4wXAItfqXSiT7WzNRoep5F5LVehe210JtxUx4e8Nh5ZCYWV4FnynFbooYpxFp08LnxSCkpsfn_&hc_ref=ARRSm8nBPmQPsjYAQSxds5XQfL6WcFnF51JoX-tmBSt2pNYeD3qSdq4Lpi4UYWSflx8&fref=nf&__xts__%5B0%5D=68.ARDGxuDP3zEGBbG"><span style="color: #365899; font-family: inherit;">The Ramone- A One Man Tribute Band</span></a></span></b></h2>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #1c1e21;">
Spoiler alert !!! This book is not about The Ramones. This book is about YOU.
There ar</span><span style="color: #1c1e21;">e
plenty of books out there from all different points of view and perspectives
that tell the story of The Ramones but this is the only book I have read so far
that places the emphasis on how they relate to so many different people on a
personal level. No matter what your ethnicity, education, sexual orientation,
nationality etc... there is something in this book that is going to resonate
with you and your own struggles to find an identity. </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #1c1e21;"><br />
</span><span style="color: #1c1e21;">Since this book is about
ME, I will explain how The Ramones had an effect on my development.</span><span style="color: #1c1e21;"><br />
</span><span style="color: #1c1e21;">On page 33 Donna says
"The Ramones' music itself was a miracle of originality and
innovation-something we discover seredipitously when we can't do what we were
told we should do"</span><span style="color: #1c1e21;"><br />
</span><span style="color: #1c1e21;">I was very smart growing
up and was constantly told that I should be doing so much better at school. In
reality, I was bored with being subjected to dumbed down rhetoric and sanitized
versions of what the world was supposed to be. I was also very good at playing
music very early in my life. People tried to force me to excel on their terms
and I was having none of it. </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #1c1e21;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #1c1e21;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">In the Ramones case, I was being told that their
music was dumb and was devoid of quality. Just like the world in general, they
couldn't see that it took a great deal of intelligence to produce art that is
so simple and direct. I could play a million notes but they didn't mean as
much. I could write lofty and poetic lyrics but they didn't mean as much as the
direct statements made by The Ramones. There are so many examples of people
identifying with The Ramones because their music was so simple. They professed
to not being very intelligent or enlightened and they were not made to feel
welcomed by pretentious and overblown posturing. I would contend that there
were an equal number of highly intellectual people who saw the parts of the
Ramones iceberg that were below the waterline. I'll never forget my metal head
friends in high school circa 1986 who ridiculed me for liking the Ramones. I'll
never forget shutting their mouths by showing them interviews with Metallica,
Slayer and Anthrax citing the Ramones as a crucial influence.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #1c1e21;"><br />
</span><span style="color: #1c1e21;">Donna uses the word
"Anomie" and the definition states "Social instability resulting
from a breakdown of standards and values -also- personal unrest, alienation,
and uncertainty that comes from a lack of purpose or ideals" which
perfectly describes what I went through</span><span style="color: #1c1e21;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #1c1e21;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The second part that really hit home was the
early punk fascination with Nazi imagery and the use of the swastika.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #1c1e21;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
Donna examines how a movement with a large Jewish population can write songs
about Nazis and swastikas etc... The fact that the word "Punk" was
considered to be fighting words in the 70's makes it akin to any other word or
term that is used to dehumanize a person. Rappers appropriated the
"N" word just like the punks did. When you play with an idea like a
toy, you diminish the power of the message. It's like taking a gun out of
someone's hands and returning it to them without the bullets. This is what I
did as a metal head kid in the 80's, only it was pentagrams and upside down
crosses instead of swastikas. Punk kids in the 70's felt stifled by the
pressures of the WW2 generation and I personally felt stifled by the pressures
of the newly empowered "Faith Based Voter". </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #1c1e21;">Every satanic symbol on
my notebook might as well have been a middle finger to people who pretended to
be on a higher moral plane. The kids of the WW2 generation had Hitler, I had
Reagan and the God Squad.</span><span style="color: #1c1e21;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #1c1e21; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #1c1e21; font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">
In my personal opinion, the reason that the Ramones were so successful is that
they were about acceptance on your terms. You didn't have to be a virtuoso or a
poet or a genius or even attractive. But the thing that is often overlooked is
that you can be a genius or a poet or even attractive but on your terms and not
theirs. Too many subcultures fall prey to the same elitism that alienated them
but The Ramones have proven to strike a chord with just about every type of
human being.<br />
I guess you could say that The Ramones made things simple because they wanted
to provide extra room for you to fill in the blanks.<br />
Please go out and buy a copy of Why The Ramones Matter" by Donna Gaines
because this book about you.</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<o:DocumentProperties>
<o:Template>Normal.dotm</o:Template>
<o:Revision>0</o:Revision>
<o:TotalTime>0</o:TotalTime>
<o:Pages>1</o:Pages>
<o:Words>706</o:Words>
<o:Characters>4028</o:Characters>
<o:Company>www.donnagaines.com</o:Company>
<o:Lines>33</o:Lines>
<o:Paragraphs>8</o:Paragraphs>
<o:CharactersWithSpaces>4946</o:CharactersWithSpaces>
<o:Version>12.0</o:Version>
</o:DocumentProperties>
<o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
<o:AllowPNG/>
</o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves>false</w:TrackMoves>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:DrawingGridHorizontalSpacing>18 pt</w:DrawingGridHorizontalSpacing>
<w:DrawingGridVerticalSpacing>18 pt</w:DrawingGridVerticalSpacing>
<w:DisplayHorizontalDrawingGridEvery>0</w:DisplayHorizontalDrawingGridEvery>
<w:DisplayVerticalDrawingGridEvery>0</w:DisplayVerticalDrawingGridEvery>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:DontAutofitConstrainedTables/>
<w:DontVertAlignInTxbx/>
</w:Compatibility>
</w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" LatentStyleCount="276">
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]-->
<!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin:0in;
mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;}
</style>
<![endif]-->
<!--StartFragment-->
<!--EndFragment--></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></o:p></div>
<h2>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><o:p><br /></o:p></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">R</span><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">eview by John Sumser, Ph.D. (California)</span></span></h2>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bookmark: _GoBack;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">According to Donna Gaines, you cannot ask a Ramones fan why
the group matters. “The Ramones matter because they are the fucking Ramones,”
she writes in the voice of an imaginary fan. “If I have to explain . . . duh.”
This book, then, is not for the Ramonistas of the world, although fans will
appreciate the sympathetic kaleidoscopic level of detail that Gaines brings to
the history of the group. <o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bookmark: _GoBack;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The group wore its lack of musical talent and limited range
as a badge of pride, as a way of sticking it to those in mainstream society who
still cared about musical conventions, who held on to some level of rules and
norms. The Ramones gave rapid mumbled voice to the inarticulate hopelessness
and rage of a generation’s disenfranchised fragments, those inevitable slices
of any generation for whom there seems to be no place and few socially-accepted
goals that are actually worth the effort. The Ramones matter, to those for whom
they matter, because the group gave them a place with which they could
identify.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bookmark: _GoBack;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bookmark: _GoBack;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">To ask why the Ramones matter – why, that is, they are
socially, culturally, historically important – seems to require that we move
beyond the identification of the followers. Asking why the Ramones matter to
Ramones’ fans does not take us much beyond “Duh.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bookmark: _GoBack;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bookmark: _GoBack;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Donna Gaines creates a bridge between the fans’ view and
something bigger. Gaines is both a fan and, more importantly for outsiders, a
sociologist. The ultimate sociological questions address why something happens
in a particular time and place and to specific people. To understand why the
Ramones matter necessitates understanding why the group’s supporters needed to
hear their particular message and why that message resonated in the time it
did. And this is why Donna Gaines’ book matters; she has a deep understanding of
the world inhabited by the Ramones and also why that world came about when and
where it did.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bookmark: _GoBack;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bookmark: _GoBack;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The first half of the book is a thick description (to use the
anthropologist Clifford Geertz’s term) of the chaotic rise, fall, and
resurrection of a musical group. The second half of the book provides the
context for understanding the Ramones not as a musical group, but as a social
phenomenon. She writes with depth, grace, and sympathy of the ways American
youth are alienated socially, politically, existentially, and spiritually. She
traces the increasing meaninglessness of social norms and conventions that
results in a widespread state of what Emile Durkheim called <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">anomie</i> – the loss of a sense of purpose,
identity, and values in an ever-commercialized world. <o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bookmark: _GoBack;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><span style="font-family: inherit;">
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<o:DocumentProperties>
<o:Template>Normal.dotm</o:Template>
<o:Revision>0</o:Revision>
<o:TotalTime>0</o:TotalTime>
<o:Pages>1</o:Pages>
<o:Words>433</o:Words>
<o:Characters>2470</o:Characters>
<o:Company>www.donnagaines.com</o:Company>
<o:Lines>20</o:Lines>
<o:Paragraphs>4</o:Paragraphs>
<o:CharactersWithSpaces>3033</o:CharactersWithSpaces>
<o:Version>12.0</o:Version>
</o:DocumentProperties>
<o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
<o:AllowPNG/>
</o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves>false</w:TrackMoves>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:DrawingGridHorizontalSpacing>18 pt</w:DrawingGridHorizontalSpacing>
<w:DrawingGridVerticalSpacing>18 pt</w:DrawingGridVerticalSpacing>
<w:DisplayHorizontalDrawingGridEvery>0</w:DisplayHorizontalDrawingGridEvery>
<w:DisplayVerticalDrawingGridEvery>0</w:DisplayVerticalDrawingGridEvery>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:DontAutofitConstrainedTables/>
<w:DontVertAlignInTxbx/>
</w:Compatibility>
</w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" LatentStyleCount="276">
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]-->
<!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin-top:0in;
mso-para-margin-right:0in;
mso-para-margin-bottom:8.0pt;
mso-para-margin-left:0in;
line-height:107%;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast;
mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;}
</style>
<![endif]-->
<!--StartFragment-->
<!--EndFragment--></span></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="mso-bookmark: _GoBack;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Another sociologist, Anthony Giddens, writes that the very
idea of who we are becomes a problem because of the choices we have to make:
What should I to do? How should I act? Who should I be? When the conventional
answers to those questions begin to ring hollow, someone needs to answer them.
In <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Why the Ramones Matter</i>, Donna
Gaines shows us how the Ramones stepped into the vacuum and why their message
resonated.</span></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="mso-bookmark: _GoBack;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="mso-bookmark: _GoBack;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></span></span><br />
<h2>
<span style="color: red; font-family: inherit;">Review by Jari-Pekka Laito Ramone (Finland):(www.ramonesheaven.com)</span></h2>
<h3>
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">In March 2018, I got permission to tell Ramones' fans about a Ramones related book written by well-respected writer, journalist and sociologist Dr. Donna Gaines. Now it is published: release date was October 2, 2018. Title of her book is <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1477318712/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1477318712&linkCode=as2&tag=blitspsycther-20&linkId=aaeea0c52b5ba3400277c63e1c2ceb6e" target="_blank">Why the Ramones Matter</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=blitspsycther-20&l=am2&o=1&a=1477318712" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" />. Book has 150 pages and publisher is University of Texas Press (series: Music Matters). </span></span></h3>
<h3>
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">In her career Gaines has written for magazines like <i>Rolling Stone, Village Voice, Spin and Newsday</i>. Her first book, <i>Teenage Wasteland: Suburbia's Dead End Kids</i>, was published in 1991. She is well-known of her book A <i>Misfit's Manifesto: The Spiritual; Journey Of A Rock'N'Roll Heart</i> (2003). Through years she has written a great deal of the Ramones'. She wrote Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame 2002 Induction Essay for the Ramones (<a href="http://www.ramonesheaven.com/halloffame.html" target="_blank">read it here</a>). Some of her texts you can find from my 2nd book <a href="http://www.ramonesheaven.com/orderpage.html" target="_blank">Rock In Peace: Dee Dee And Joey Ramone</a>. </span></span></h3>
<h3>
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Donna Gaines experienced a lot Ramones shows and she was/is personal friend with many Ramones members. CJ Ramone mention in a back of book this way: "As a seven-year veteran of the Ramones and a lifelong fan, Donna speaks for me and every one of us who found our salvation in the only band that really mattered to the outsider in us all."</span></span></h3>
<h3>
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">In this book Gaines writes of things perceptive way. She want to testify that the Ramones music matters culturally, historically, sociologically, creatively, profoundly etc. She analyze importance of the band, their songs etc. and she also gives voice to the fans and people like Maria Bartiromo (journalist of whom Joey Ramone wrote a song). And a great way she for example underline a significance of Tommy Ramone. </span></span></h3>
<h3>
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Here is introduction text of her <i>Why The Ramones Matter</i> book: "The central experience of the Ramones and their music is of being an outsider, an outcast, a person who's somehow defective, and the revolt against shame and self-loathing. The fans, argues Donna Gaines, got it right away, from their own experience of alienation at home, at school, on the streets, and from themselves. This sense of estrangement and marginality permeates everything the Ramones still offer us as artists, and as people. It's why we need them, and why they will always matter. <i>Why the Ramones Matter </i>compellingly makes the case that the Ramones gave us everything; they saved rock & roll, modeled DIY ethics, and addressed our deepest collective traumas from the personal to the historical. They showed us the urgency of staying true to who we are, no matter what."</span></span></h3>
<h3>
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> American celebrity chef, author, travel documentarian, and television personality Anthony Bourdain got chance to read pre-version of this book before he passed away. Bourdain was a friend of Marky Ramone and he appeared in Joey Ramone's video New York City. Bourdain commented this book: "The Ramones were an answered prayer, the antidote to mellotron solos and stadium power ballads.... This book explains why they not only mattered, but were a vital, inspirational, earth shattering force."</span></span></h3>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
Dr. Donna Gaineshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18372708080654645746noreply@blogger.com0